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Best Restaurants for Local Ingredients in University Heights

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16 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Cellar Hand restaurant
1. Cellar Hand
4.6
Exceptional(130)
Price: Expensive
• Farm-to-table • Hillcrest
Booked 13 times today
Nestled in the heart of Hillcrest, San Diego, Cellar Hand embodies a commitment to sustainability, craftsmanship, and community. Through a farm-to-table approach, our menu showcases hyper-local seasonal fare. Our extensive wine list highlights the diverse terroir of California, serving as an extension of founder’s Pali Wine Co. Santa Barbara County winery. By fostering deep connections with local artisans, farmers, fishers, and stewards, Cellar Hand strives to be a destination where guests can savor the essence of California’s bounty in every bite and sip.Enjoy our exposed kitchen, an indoor-outdoor bar, outdoor fire pits, and artwork by Nick Perr. Opened Wednesday - Sunday with daily happy hour specials and weekend brunch!
A photo of Callie Restaurant restaurant
2. Callie Restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(333)
Price: Very Expensive
• Mediterranean • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 57 times today
Callie represents Chef Travis Swikard's debut solo project after spending a decade working alongside the esteemed Chef Daniel Boulud in New York City. The restaurant’s name, "Callie," comes from the Greek word "kallos," meaning "the most beautiful," and embodies its blend of Mediterranean cuisine with local ingredients and terroir, from sea to land from San Diego, Swikard's hometown. In 2022, Callie was acclaimed as one of America's top new restaurants by Esquire and Robb Report, and received both a Bib Gourmand and a Plate from the Michelin Guide. Callie is a dedicated supporter of Feeding San Diego, having contributed over 1 million meals to those in need in San Diego since its launch. Swikard is set to open his second restaurant in La Jolla in 2025.
A photo of ARLO San Diego restaurant
3. ARLO San Diego
4.3
Awesome(787)
Price: Moderate
• American • Mission Valley
Booked 14 times today
ARLO is an award-winning restaurant known for its scratch-made dishes, crafted from fresh local ingredients. Serving breakfast, weekend DJ brunch, and dinner, ARLO offers a fun and quirky environment. Highlights include a sweeping outdoor patio, swaying palm trees, and a giant outdoor fireplace. The experience is rounded out by an inventive cocktail program, an extensive wine list, and local craft beers on tap. Recently, ARLO won Best Hotel Restaurant and Best Restaurant for Big Groups in the San Diego Magazine Best of 2024 awards. Free parking is available.
A photo of Et Voilà! French Bistro - San Diego restaurant
4. Et Voilà! French Bistro - San Diego
4.8
Exceptional(2608)
Price: Moderate
• French • North Park
Booked 11 times today
Et Voilà! is a vibrant neighborhood bistro, located along the North Park corridor. Et Voilà! French Bistro showcases Chef Vincent Viale’s talents, mixing French classics with a modern accent. Find local and seasonal products building upon French recipes from various regions, such as Steak Frites, Coquilles St. Jacques, and soufflés. Explore the diverse regions of France through a curated wine list, and taste a variety of distinct local ingredients with our crafted cocktails. Et Voila! French Bistro is the destination for those looking for a vibrant dining experience, or even for those looking for a simple glass of wine and informal bite at the bar. No reservations accepted for happy hour Please be on time to your reservation. Note that your allocated time slot starts at the time of your reservation and NOT when your party is complete. (1.30 hours for 2, 1.45pm for 3/4 people) We likely will not be able to extend your time if you are running late . Thank you for
A photo of CUCINA CAPRESE PIZZERIA & TRATTORIA restaurant
5. CUCINA CAPRESE PIZZERIA & TRATTORIA
4.8
Exceptional(115)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Old Town
Booked 3 times today
From My Heart and Soul to Your Table...Chef Gigi Monaco, Born in Capri, Italy where his passion for cooking took root starting from Mamma Rosa & Papa Giovanni… Gigi was trained in Culinary School in Capri, Italy and has over 30 years experience—Let Gigi take you to his home with the finest Italian meal you have ever had!Cucina Caprese is a restaurant that uses traditional Italian culinary techniques including il Forno a Legna –old style wood-fired oven– cooking. We use seasonal, local and organic ingredients as well as meats, cheeses and extra virgin olive oil(EVOO) imported from Italy.Our dough is prepared the authentic way of old Napoli–made only with special ‘OO Flour’, yeast, and water (no sugar oil, or vinegar). Our pizza is then prepared the traditional Neapolitan way, il Forno a Legna, in a wood-fired pizza oven on the side made to order!
A photo of Isola Little Italy restaurant
6. Isola Little Italy
4.6
Exceptional(765)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 10 times today
My Nonna's name was Isola, a wonderful cook who gave me a passion for food and fresh, simple ingredients.I have vivid memories of my grandmother turning plain bread into amazing desserts, simple apples into incredible fritters sprinkled with a little sugar and honey, and even treating my sunburns with olive oil. Thirty years later, I still savor every meal and moment.Isola is proud to serve the finest local ingredients, dalla vite, from the vine. I hope you enjoy every bite, plucked from my family tree for your table. Buon appetito!
A photo of Huapangos restaurant
7. Huapangos
new
5.0
Exceptional(2)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Hillcrest
Booked 3 times today
Huapangos, a family-owned gem in the heart of San Diego, invites you to experience authentic Mexican cuisine in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Inspired by the haciendas of the Yucatan Peninsula, our dishes combine traditional flavors with local ingredients, creating a unique culinary journey that celebrates Mexican heritage.Step inside and be transported to a lively fiesta. Colorful décor, vibrant murals, and the warm aroma of spices fill the air, setting the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. Our friendly staff, often family members themselves, will greet you with genuine hospitality, making you feel right at home.Don't miss our delectable breakfast and brunch options, perfect for starting your day with a taste of Mexico. Whether you're looking for a casual lunch, a romantic dinner, or a festive gathering with friends and family, Huapangos offers the perfect setting.
A photo of Rustic Root - Gaslamp restaurant
8. Rustic Root - Gaslamp
new
4.5
Awesome(1346)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 43 times today
Rustic Root showcases our take on New American Comfort food with a California twist. Classic dishes are rooted in tradition, including regional dishes from around the country. All reimagined with fresh and local ingredients and our Chef’s modern flair. Our Signature drink menus offer our take on timeless classic cocktails as well as Rustic Root originals using creative spirits and the freshest ingredients. Join us in our street-level dining room for dinner nightly or our award-winning weekend brunch. Our rooftop lounge is an excellent place to grab drinks & a bite with friends, enjoying the San Diego weather and our unique location in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter. Close to the San Diego Convention Center, we're a favorite for locals and out of town tourists alike.
A photo of Theresa's Italian Steakhouse restaurant
9. Theresa's Italian Steakhouse
4.1
Excellent(105)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Mission Valley
Booked 3 times today
Enjoy authentic Italian Steakhouse cuisine right in the heart of Mission Valley in central San Diego. Theresa’s Italian Steakhouse combines a dynamic atmosphere with traditional dishes. From housemade pasta dishes to prime cut steaks and fresh seafood, you will fall in love with our chef’s recipes, transporting you back to Italy. Take pleasure in every dish with perfectly paired selections from a carefully assembled wine collection.We believe in supporting local farmers and suppliers that produce fresh, sustainable and traceable ingredients. By working together, we can help protect the environment and ensure all animals are treated humanely through modern farming practices. We hope you'll enjoy these local ingredients and have an outstanding dining experience with us.
A photo of ALBACA restaurant
10. ALBACA
3.8
Excellent(110)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Coronado
Booked 1 time today
Enjoy the California sunshine while eating dishes created with local ingredients at ALBACA, Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa's signature restaurant. Gather with family and friends with a cocktail and fresh cuisine by the pool or around a fire pit.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Yvonne
    San Francisco Bay Area •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Thank you Sabrina for making our night AMAZING! You are the best! The cocktails were perfect and the food delightful!
    More info
    Callie RestaurantPrice: Very Expensive• Mediterranean• Downtown / Gaslamp
    •
    4.8
  • Erin
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Splurged on a holiday Monday and once again Et Voila did not disappoint!! I love how the menu changes and the recommendations from wait staff were perfect. Started with the French bread and butter (I can live on this alone). Took the waiters recommendation and tried the beef bourguignon, which was perfectly paired with the French gamay (beaujolais). Loved the wine so much I purchased a bottle to take home and impress my next houseguest Highly recommend for any occasion , or like me , a Monday !
    More info
    Et Voilà! French Bistro - San DiegoPrice: Moderate• French• North Park
    •
    4.8
  • Rosie
    New Orleans / Louisiana •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    The mussels escabeche brought me back to Barcelona 😩 I’ve never had such decadent sugar snap peas, likely from the Hillcrest Farmer’s Market which is literally right there. It’s wonderful to see a restaurant so committed to shopping local, even the art is locally made!
    More info
    Cellar HandPrice: Expensive• Farm-to-table• Hillcrest
    •
    4.6
  • IngoVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Was a really nice place to catch a random Saturday brunch….aesthetic was nice and you could see the pool from our seating area. We liked the cocktails and my short rib hash was delicious.
    More info
    ARLO San DiegoPrice: Moderate• American• Mission Valley
    •
    4.3
  • Leo
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on 22 Dec 2024
    It was an amazing experience I recommend it very much. The worker are actually Italian and know what they are doing, and the food is incredibly good, highly recommend.
    More info
    CUCINA CAPRESE PIZZERIA & TRATTORIAPrice: Moderate• Italian• Old Town
    •
    4.8

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