Best Southern American Restaurants in Rancho Santa Fe

54 restaurants available nearby

1. Mille Fleurs

4.8

Exceptional(2276)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Rancho Santa Fe

Booked 7 times today

Mille Fleurs, located in the quaint village of Rancho Santa Fe, is a gem for those seeking top-notch Continental cuisine with a French twist. Praised as "Far and away the best restaurant sampled in greater San Diego" by *The New York Times* and consistently celebrated in *San Diego Magazine*, this establishment dazzles with its authentic and meticulously crafted menu. Guests rave about the "exquisite yet comfortable French country décor" and the lush patio setting that enhances every dining experience. Whether it’s the "succulent steak au poivre" or the innovative "lobster salad with avocado," each dish is a testament to the chef’s dedication to freshness, sourcing ingredients daily from the nearby Chino's Family Farm. Mille Fleurs stands out not just for its food but for creating memorable moments, making it an enduring favorite for both locals and visitors.

A photo of Nick & G's Restaurant restaurant

2. Nick & G's Restaurant

4.6

Exceptional(931)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Rancho Santa Fe

Booked 13 times today

Nestled in the heart of Rancho Santa Fe, Nick & G's Restaurant brings an authentic slice of Italy to the table, expertly blending traditional Italian flavors with a modern twist. Patrons rave about the "insane bread" and the intriguing twists on Italian classics, making every meal a delightful exploration of culinary excellence. The ambiance, described as a "beautiful mix of new and old-world luxury," sets the stage for a dining experience that is both comfortable and sophisticated. Reviewers consistently highlight the exceptional service and the accommodating nature of the staff, making each visit memorable. Whether it's the perfectly prepared prawns, the gluten-free options that actually taste great, or the lively atmosphere accentuated by live music, Nick & G's stands out as a top destination for Italian cuisine lovers in Rancho Santa Fe. As one guest summed it up, "fabulous food, service, and ambience...worth every penny!"

A photo of Rancho Santa Fe Bistro restaurant

3. Rancho Santa Fe Bistro

4.8

Exceptional(334)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Rancho Santa Fe

Booked 1 time today

Nestled in the picturesque downtown of Rancho Santa Fe, CA, Rancho Santa Fe Bistro stands out as a beacon of Continental cuisine excellence. Under the skilled hand of Owner/Chef Mozy Jahanguiri, the bistro serves up a delectable array of Continental dishes that blend tradition with modern flair. Guests rave about the "best rack of lamb" and "truly the best pork chop I’ve ever had," highlighting the quality and authenticity of the offerings. With glowing reviews like "wonderful wonderful wonderful...escargot...baked brie," it's clear that each dish is crafted to perfection. The bistro's cozy ambiance and friendly service further enhance the dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a superb Continental meal in a charming setting.

4. The Pony Room

4.8

Exceptional(1475)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Rancho Santa Fe

Booked 52 times today

The Pony Room in Rancho Santa Fe stands as a beacon of American cuisine, offering a stellar array of comfort classics that resonate with authenticity and culinary craftsmanship. Esteemed for its "exceptional experience with both the food and service hitting the mark perfectly," this local gem encapsulates the spirit of Southern California with its hand-crafted, seasonally inspired cocktails and impressive wine list. Diners rave about dishes like the "delicious" fried chicken, hailed as a comfort-style meal, and the seafood Louie salad, described as "just the best." With live music every night and a vibrant atmosphere, The Pony Room is not just a meal, it’s an event, promising an unforgettable dining experience where "the food is always amazing" and the ambiance consistently "beautiful."

A photo of South of Nick's - Del Mar restaurant

5. South of Nick's - Del Mar

4.7

Exceptional(592)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Del Mar

Booked 61 times today

South of Nick's in Del Mar, San Diego, is a gem for those seeking authentic American cuisine with a Southern California twist. Renowned for its seamless blend of classic Mexican flavors with prime steaks and seafood, this restaurant promises an unforgettable dining experience. Patrons rave about the "delicious food and wonderful service," with dishes like the steak salad and seafood enchiladas receiving high praise. The ambiance is consistently described as great, with a "beautiful decor" that complements the high-quality meals. Whether it's the complimentary chips and salsa, the finely crafted margaritas, or the attentive service, South of Nick's stands out as a top choice for both locals and visitors. It's no wonder guests are eager to return, making it a "new favorite" in the vibrant San Diego dining scene.

A photo of Waverly Restaurant & Lounge restaurant

6. Waverly Restaurant & Lounge

4.6

Exceptional(98)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Encinitas

Booked 60 times today

Nestled in the charming Cardiff by The Sea in Encinitas, Waverly Restaurant & Lounge is a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine. It offers a progressive menu infused with a European twist that tantalizes the palate with dishes like the divine burrata "donuts" and adventurous bone marrow paired with beef tartare. The rave reviews emphasize the quality and creativity of the menu. One guest exclaimed, "The duck meatball was flavorful and moist," illustrating the unique culinary delights that await at Waverly. With its chic Tulum-inspired decor and a vibrant atmosphere, Waverly stands out as a must-visit destination for those seeking an exceptional dining experience with a contemporary American flair.

A photo of Chart House Restaurant - Cardiff restaurant

7. Chart House Restaurant - Cardiff

4.4

Awesome(7136)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Solana Beach

Booked 37 times today

At Chart House Restaurant in Cardiff, nestled between Solana Beach and Encinitas, the steak cuisine is not just a meal; it's an experience. Praised for its "perfectly prepared and juicy" prime rib and the "tasty and flavorful" filet mignon and New York strip, Chart House offers a steak experience that truly stands out. One guest raved, "the prime rib was huge and prepared perfectly," highlighting the generous portions and expert cooking that make every bite memorable. Whether it's a special occasion or a casual dinner, the combination of exceptional steaks, stunning ocean views, and impeccable service ensures a dining adventure that is both delightful and satisfying.

8. Tavern

4.8

Exceptional(525)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Solana Beach

Booked 14 times today

Newly remodeled, the much airier Tavern is all about art, music, and above all great food. Open for lunch and soon to include evening dining, the Tavern adds a distinctly Mexican/Pacific Coast set of flavors to the local fine dining scene.We are located in the heart of the Cedros Design District, within walking distance of the Amtrak station. The style is casual with indoor and outdoor dining ( plus bar seating). The patio, which can accommodate 18 guests, looks out onto the shop-lined Cedros Avenue and can be separated from the main dining area for private events.*Please note* Our restaurant welcomes walk-ins during our Lunch hours from 11:30 am- 3:30 pm. *Tavern restaurant will be closed for dinner (Lunch will remain open Monday and Tuesday when the belly up is dark)*Please check our website for the most up-to-date hours*

A photo of Milton's Restaurant restaurant

9. Milton's Restaurant

4.7

Exceptional(393)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Del Mar

Booked 13 times today

Milton’s Restaurant in Del Mar is the quintessence of classic American deli dining. Established in 1995, it continues to serve up an authentic deli experience with its "pastrami-loaded Reuben sandwich, nuff said." Customers rave about the quality, with one noting it's the "best damn pastrami sandwich I’ve ever had." This eatery takes pride in using the freshest ingredients, offering a menu filled with traditional favorites like matzo ball soup, brisket dinners, and an array of homemade bakery delights. The ambiance is described as friendly and inviting, making Milton’s a must-visit for those seeking a genuine slice of American cuisine in Del Mar. Whether it’s the piled-high sandwiches or the crispy kosher pickles, every bite promises to deliver a taste of nostalgia and innovation.

10. Sunny Side Solana

4.3

Awesome(77)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Solana Beach

Booked 8 times today

Step into the heart of Solana Beach and discover the breakfast paradise of Sunny Side Solana, where each morning meal is an experience to cherish. Known for its "delicious and fresh" menu, this restaurant offers a variety of dishes to suit any palate, from gluten-free pancakes that are "so good, I’ve been dreaming of these" to mouth-watering short rib scrambles and fluffy pancakes. Regulars rave about the "amazing orange juice and coffee," highlighting the restaurant’s commitment to quality. The warm, welcoming atmosphere, coupled with attentive service and a vibrant ambiance, makes Sunny Side Solana a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic and delightful breakfast experience. Whether you're a local or just passing through, make sure to direct your feet "to the sunny side of the street" for a breakfast that's talked about long after the plates are cleared.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

Explore OpenTable

Rancho Santa Fe

Southern american

Best Southern American Restaurants in Rancho Santa Fe

Price

Regions

Areas

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating options

Award-winning

Accessibility

54 restaurants available nearby

1. Mille Fleurs

2. Nick & G's Restaurant

3. Rancho Santa Fe Bistro

4. The Pony Room

5. South of Nick's - Del Mar

6. Waverly Restaurant & Lounge

7. Chart House Restaurant - Cardiff

8. Tavern

9. Milton's Restaurant

10. Sunny Side Solana

Explore OpenTable