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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in La Mesa

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31 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Limoncello La Mesa restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(303)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • North Park
Booked 19 times today
Welcome to Limoncello, your go-to destination for authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of La Mesa. At Limoncello, we pride ourselves on delivering a true taste of Italy with our carefully curated menu inspired by traditional family recipes passed down through generations. Our dishes showcase the rich flavors of Italy, crafted using only the finest and freshest ingredients sourced locally and from Italy. From classic pasta dishes to mouthwatering pizzas and delectable desserts, each plate is a celebration of Italian culinary heritage. Come savor the warmth and hospitality of Italy right here in La Mesa at Limoncello, where every meal is a journey to the heart of Italian flavors.
A photo of Farmer's Table - La Mesa restaurant
4.4
Awesome(2016)
Price: Moderate
• Farm-to-table • La Mesa
Booked 22 times today
Excited to announce that we officially have four locations open in San Diego including Bay Park, Little Italy, La Mesa, and Chula Vista. As a family run operation we believe every good neighborhood deserves an eatery where locals and visitors can enjoy “honest food done right”. Here at Farmers Table, we specialize in farm-to-fork cuisine that focuses on bringing locally sourced organic ingredients together to be savored in an inviting family-friendly atmosphere, where adults and children can enjoy many different food options that are just right for them. If you are looking for a magical brunch this week, come stop by for an unforgettable night.
A photo of Antica Trattoria restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2386)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary Italian • La Mesa
Booked 28 times today
Antica Trattoria is a warm restaurant with an old-fashioned sense of hospitality that quickly became a gathering place for dinners in Lake Murray and the rest of San Diego when it opened in 2001. For Executive Chef and Owner Francesco Basile, good cuisine is about honest flavors, fresh ingredients, and simplicity. That's the kind of food he grew up eating by the seaside in Sicily and it's what he learned in culinary school in Italy.Why eat ordinary when you can eat extraordinary?About reservations: We have a 15-minute grace period. Please call us if you will be running later than 15 minutes. If a later time slot is available, you may be able to switch your reservation.We may contact you, so please ensure your email and phone number are up to date. Your table will be reserved for 1 hour 30 minutes for parties of up to 4 guests; 2 hours for parties of 5 to 8 guests; and 2 hours 30 minutes for parties of 9+. We cannot guarantee special request for tables.
A photo of Giardino Neighborhood Cucina restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1069)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Lemon Grove
Booked 14 times today
Located in the middle of Lemon Grove’s charming downtown area, Giardino is a welcoming and casual Italian inspired cucina where the neighborhood gathers for fresh and flavorful classic dishes found throughout Italy.Giardino offers an Italian-inspired menu of seasonally-driven dishes that use timeless Italian techniques and fresh ingredients. Guests will find items such as fresh seafood, pastas, pizzas and salads, as well as a variety of elements made in-house.
A photo of Lemon Grove Bistro restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(87)
Price: Moderate
• American • Lemon Grove
Booked 5 times today
In addition to offering comforting American favorites, our menu provides a selection of flavors inspired by our chef’s culinary experiences, ranging from classic Spanish fare to Italian favorites. Our menu changes seasonally to feature the freshest ingredients and provide an exciting dining experience throughout the year.The Lemon Grove Bistro is in a historic mission-style building in the heart of Lemon Grove. Since 1912, it’s been a place where locals meet and build connections, whether they were picking up their mail at the Sonka General Store in 1944 or ordering custom cakes at the Grove Pastry Shop in 2012. Come for the food. Stay to experience the inviting ambiance of the historic building and its new garden. Let’s build community--together.
A photo of Black Angus Steakhouse - El Cajon restaurant
4.2
Awesome(2147)
Price: Moderate
• Steakhouse • El Cajon / Lakeside
Booked 23 times today
WE’VE BEEN MASTERING OUR CRAFT SINCE 1964, so you could say we know a thing or two. Our cuts are aged at least 21 days, seasoned to excellence, expertly flame-grilled and served up just the way you like it. You’ve earned it. Whether you’re here to throw back a couple with old friends or trying to finish off the High Noon Feast on your own, there’s always a seat for you. So here’s to the nights you can’t remember and the steaks you won’t forget.
A photo of Herb & Wood restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(6477)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Little Italy
Booked 122 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 Siamo Napoli restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1322)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • North Park
Booked 50 times today
Specializing in Napolitano style pizza and pasta. We focus on clean fresh ingredients that thrive in our home land and make simple foods the star. We have a full bar with hand crafted drinks and a range of wines from Napoli and beyond.
A photo of Brigantine at Portside Pier restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(4227)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Downtown
Booked 159 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 Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar restaurant
4.5
Awesome(173)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Little Italy
Booked 15 times today
Authentic Baja-style, ceviche, and oyster restaurant. Unique tostadas, oysters, tiradito, clams

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • MichaelVIP
    San Diego •26 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Our family of 5 were there for Christmas Eve dinner. We had reservations at 5:15 pm and were seated promptly. The service was very nice and took our drink orders and appetizer orders right away. We've been here many times before and had always enjoyed the ahi taco and calamari. This time I also had a Caesar salad which was good. The bar ran out of Bombay so could not have my usual Bombay tonic but substituted Tanqueray which was fine. The entrees included the Duke's fish, steamed fish and shrimp in the banana leaves, a filet medium rare and the seafood hot pot. And of course, you can't finish a meal without Hula pie. Our only wish for Christmas: have Prime Rib like they have at Duke's Huntington Beach. Otherwise, the experience was enjoyable and we shall be back.
    More info
    Duke's La JollaPrice: Moderate• Hawaii Regional Cuisine• La Jolla
    4.6
  • 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
  • Tom
    Los Angeles •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Excellent Christmas Eve 5 course. Food and wine (pairing) was delicious. Staff are super cool. Love the vibe here, this was our first time. Sat outside on the patio. Heat lamps are great. Will be coming back ASAP.
    More info
    Jeune et JoliePrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary French• Carlsbad
    4.9
  • Stephanie
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on 16 Dec 2024
    We come here for all our birthdays and the food quality never disappoints! Ordered the Mushroom Ravioli today, but we’ve had the Paella, Pasta, and Veef plate with mashed potatoes and we want to kiss the chef every time.
    More info
    Lemon Grove BistroPrice: Moderate• American• Lemon Grove
    4.9
  • 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 La Mesa

Discover a selection of delightful dining experiences in La Mesa, East County San Diego, where each restaurant offers something uniquely "worth the drive." Whether you're in the mood for robust Italian flavors or authentic Mexican cuisine, the local dining scene in La Mesa caters to a variety of palates with restaurants that emphasize quality, authenticity, and a memorable atmosphere. These establishments not only serve excellent food but also provide a warm, inviting environment, complemented by attentive service that makes each meal special. The dining scene here is characterized by its commitment to authenticity and a fusion of both local and international culinary traditions, ensuring that every dish is not only delicious but also a true representation of its roots. This area is a hidden gem for food lovers seeking places that go beyond the ordinary, making each dining out experience truly exceptional. Whether it's the carefully crafted dishes or the cozy ambiances, these restaurants promise to deliver a dining experience that is definitely worth the drive.

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