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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Downtown

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42 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge restaurant
4.4
Awesome(629)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary Italian • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 14 times today
Located in the heart of Downtown San Diego near the marina district, Salvatore's inspired by the elegant minimalist details of nature. Salvatores is walking distance from the San Diego convention center and downtown hotel/resort district. The kitchen draws influence from the shores of the Mediterranean and Italy, while creating a visionary express of flavorful and modern California Mediterranean cuisine. Salvatores San Diego embodies a multi-sensory culinary sanctuary for our guests to escape, disconnect and have a great time. EUDAIMONIA' the contended, happy state you feel when you travel.
A photo of The Melting Pot - Gaslamp Quarter restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2580)
Price: Very Expensive
• Fondue • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 43 times today
Welcome to The Melting Pot San Diego Gaslamp. Located on 5th Ave & E St in the historic Gaslamp Plaza Suites, the San Diego - Gaslamp Melting Pot Restaurant brings a truly unique, romantic and interactive four-course fondue dining experience to San Diego's vibrant downtown dining scene!
A photo of Operacaffe restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1358)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 13 times today
At Operacaffe we are passionate about our culinary business and our customers. The reputation for excellent cuisine, top-notch service, the quality and freshness of ingredients are the reasons we are so proud of our brand new restaurant!
A photo of Herb & Wood restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(6477)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Little Italy
Booked 121 times today
A timeless, sought-after dining escape, celebrated Chef Brian Malarkey opened Herb & Wood to instant acclaim over four years ago. In that time, the restaurant has become an icon, a dining destination that has helped to propel San Diego's culinary reputation to new heights. By focusing on rustic, wood-fired dishes, Chef Malarkey's menu elevates humble ingredients such as carrots, beets, and chicken, incorporating Mediterranean flavors and a California ethos of seasonality and sustainability.
A photo of Cesarina restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(5516)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Ocean Beach
Booked 202 times today
Cesarina is a grandmother, a mother, a daughter—our personification of a nurturer who feeds and cares for her community. From meticulous attention to detail and fresh ingredients to the warm and inviting atmosphere, this restaurant is a celebration of the power of food and family.
A photo of Coasterra restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(7577)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Harbor Island
Booked 108 times today
Coasterra is San Diego's premier bay front dining destination! We are an innovative and modern restaurant, lounge and floating event center, featuring Mexican cuisine.
A photo of Lou & Mickey's restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(4137)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 40 times today
Located at the gates to the historic Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego, Lou & Mickey’s is a timeless American steakhouse serving prime steaks, including in-house, dry-aged steaks, plus choice seafood, classic cocktails and an award-winning wine list, in a relaxing and inviting environment. Private dining capabilities also available.
A photo of Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar restaurant
4.5
Awesome(173)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Little Italy
Booked 16 times today
Authentic Baja-style, ceviche, and oyster restaurant. Unique tostadas, oysters, tiradito, clams
A photo of Brigantine at Portside Pier restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(4227)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 154 times today
The Brigantine is more than just home to some of San Diego’s finest seafood. It’s a place where locals and visitors alike come to share a lively atmosphere and authentic sense of community. The Morton family opened the first Brigantine on Shelter Island in 1969, with a vision that embraced the beach town lifestyle, a dedication to flavorful food, and a passion for friendly service. Today, we’re known far and wide for our San Diego-style surf and turf. From our award-winning fish tacos and freshly shucked oysters, to classic filet mignon or our perpetually best-selling marinated grilled swordfish. Always prepared to exceed expectations, and served with a smile. You can stop in at any neighborhood Brigantine and get a taste of the local flavor, from regionally inspired specials, to custom cocktails and home town craft beers. At the Brigantine we make first timers feel like regulars, and consider regulars part of the family. So come by often, and share our taste for life.
A photo of Marina Kitchen - San Diego Marriott Marquis & Marina restaurant
4.3
Awesome(415)
Price: Expensive
• Comfort Food • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 11 times today
Marina Kitchen at the San Diego Marriott Marquis & Marina is a gem of a restaurant that's worth the drive. With its dynamic, chic, and comfortable atmosphere, it's not just a place to eat, but also a place to relax, socialize, and take in the sights and sounds of the vibrant coastline. Reviewers rave about the quality and freshness of the food, with one saying 'the menu is limited and sticks to old standbys, but there are some hidden gems.' Another praised the excellent service, saying 'the food was delicious, especially the Brussels sprouts and burratta appetizer.' So, if you're in the mood for some old-fashioned comfort food with a contemporary twist, Marina Kitchen is the place to be!

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Scott
    Orange County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    They were very busy on christmas day, but had all hands on deck helping out and we had a great experience. Some of the best Italian food I've ever had.
    More info
    Tavola Nostra Pizzeria E CucinaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Hillcrest
    4.9
  • Kathleen
    Phoenix / Arizona •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Simply put, one of the best meals I have had the privilege of enjoying! Delightful server, Calvin, was very in tune with the timing of our meal and our needs. The fixed menu was perfect for Christmas Eve, as it kept the meal flowing and decision-making to a minimum. Every course was delectable from the scallop crudo, the creamed mushrooms, and the sea bass, to the date cake with walnut ice cream! Mezcal hibiscus cocktail was creative and tasty, as well! I will definitely be back!
    More info
    Herb & WoodPrice: Expensive• Californian• Little Italy
    4.7
  • GenaVIP
    San Diego •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Everything was great for an hitting. Menu selections easy to follow and they were easy to deal with with a sea food allergy
    More info
    The Melting Pot - Gaslamp QuarterPrice: Very Expensive• Fondue• Downtown / Gaslamp
    4.6
  • Wes
    Los Angeles •3 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    The first thing you noticed about Salvatore‘s is the decor and the ambience. It really sets the mood. The service was great. The drinks were perfect. As a starter, we had the margarita pizza and it was delicious. We both have the specials of the day. The fish was a striped mass And beef was a bone in ribeye which was cooked perfectly only it was already cut off the bone into pieces, which I prefer not. However it was delicious so I give them 4.5 , everything was perfect except the portion size of the fish . Should be a full filet
    More info
    Salvatore's Cucina & LoungePrice: Moderate• Contemporary Italian• Downtown / Gaslamp
    4.4
  • Sergey
    Atlanta Metro •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 7 Dec 2024
    The service was excellent, and the food was fresh and unique. They had some delicious seafood dishes, including raw oysters and Peruvian-influenced ceviches. Everything tasted amazing. The outdoor seating next to the heating lamp created a cozy atmosphere. The only downside was the limited drink selection. They offered a few cocktails but lacked most of the liquors. For instance, they couldn’t make a gin martini. On the positive side, they had a good selection of wines. Overall, we had a great experience with a touch of European charm and Peruvian flavor.
    More info
    Crudo Ceviche & Oyster BarPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Little Italy
    4.5

Discover best worth the drive restaurants in Downtown

Discover the culinary gems of Downtown San Diego that are "worth the drive" for an unforgettable dining experience. Each restaurant featured in this collection offers unique flavors and impeccable service, making them stand out in the vibrant San Diego dining scene. Whether you're craving fresh seafood, authentic Mediterranean dishes, or innovative Japanese cuisine, these establishments promise a meal that more than justifies the journey. With their strategic locations in the heart of Downtown San Diego, they provide not only a feast for the taste buds but also a delightful ambiance that encapsulates the lively spirit of the area. Visitors and locals alike agree that these dining spots enhance any trip to San Diego with their commitment to quality and hospitality. Experience the diverse culinary landscape of Downtown San Diego, where each restaurant offers a distinct and memorable dining adventure.

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