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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in San Diego

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36 restaurants available nearby

A photo of California English restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(534)
Price: Expensive
• American • Sorrento Mesa
Booked 27 times today
Located in the Sorrento Valley, California English is the newest culinary creation from celebrity chef, Richard Blais. Blais is creating an all-day menu for California English that’ll interpret classic British dishes through the lens of Southern California ingredients.The idea is a fusion of sorts: the laid-back California lifestyle that makes San Diego so unique, mixed with a cozy pub convivial atmosphere where you can meet friends (or mates) for a pint after work, set up a client lunch with fresh oysters on the menu or have a cozy family dinner over a Sunday roast. Everything on the menu is made from scratch with locally sourced ingredients that make for fresh and flavorful dishes. The effortless vibe of casual yet stylish makes for the perfect place to celebrate the joy of the unexpected coming together to make the perfect culinary match.
A photo of The Amalfi Llama - San Diego restaurant
4.5
Awesome(445)
Price: Moderate
• Steakhouse • University City/Golden Triangle
Booked 52 times today
The Amalfi Llama reimagines the culinary landscape by seamlessly merging the allure of a rustic live-fire steakhouse with the flavors of Italian cuisine, a culinary haven where genuine cooking, down-to-earth cuisine and stylish flair intertwine. Guests embark on a journey from Southern Patagonia to the Mediterranean coast of Italy as they indulge in a multisensory experience that transcends boundaries – from the soothing cream decor to the intimate ambiance of crackling embers accompanied by the melodies of vintage Italian vinyls. Embracing the essence of a modern farmhouse, The Amalfi Llama revolves around an open parrilla grill and wood-burning oven, harnessing fire, smoke, coals and embers to craft dishes. The restaurant’s ethos also meets design with Latin American and Mediterranean influences, resulting in an inviting environment adorned with light woods, natural light and subtly elegant finishes, defying traditional steakhouse and Italian restaurant conventions.
A photo of Barbarella restaurant
4.2
Awesome(866)
Price: Moderate
• European • La Jolla
Booked 13 times today
Barbarella is a restaurant and full bar located on Avenida De La Playa in La Jolla Shores. Adorned with an eclectic mix of art and boasting plenty of outdoor seating, Barbarella a one-of-a-kind culinary gem with executive Chef Lynn Crawford!
A photo of True Food Kitchen - San Diego UTC restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1089)
Price: Expensive
• American • La Jolla
Booked 24 times today
True Food Kitchen in San Diego UTC is a gem for those seeking a culinary adventure. The restaurant's focus on fresh, flavorful dishes crafted from conscious ingredients makes it a must-visit. As one reviewer put it, 'True Food UTC is great, not only for the food, but the warm and attentive staff.' The consistent high ratings for food, ambience, and service make it a drive-worthy destination. The fact that it is located in a nice location with friendly staff adds to the overall experience. So, if you're up for a healthy, flavorful meal in a pleasant atmosphere, True Food Kitchen is definitely worth the drive!
A photo of Lobby Lounge  at Fairmont Grand Del Mar restaurant
4.3
Awesome(20)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Carmel Valley
Booked 3 times today
The Lobby Lounge at Fairmont Grand Del Mar has been magnificently reimagined to combine the lavish splendor of Italian palazzos with the natural grandeur of Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve. Indulge in afternoon tea as the San Diego sun casts its golden light through large arched windows, or linger into the evening over inspired tapas, cocktails, and elevated programming under the warm glow of Venetian glass chandeliers. Take in the beauty of Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve —or while sipping a craft cocktail in the bar. In a specially commissioned mural that spans all four walls, artist Jim Wodark pays homage to the canyon’s most iconic elements: its ancient rocks, cascading waterfall, and distant mountains.Live entertainment Fridays and Saturdays 8:00 pm - 12:00 am.LIVE LIMITLESS - Join the rewards program designed with you in mind. As a member of ALL – Accor Live Limitless, you’ll earn points on dining and hotel reservations worldwide. Enroll at https://bit.ly/3gvDtJG
A photo of Bazille - Nordstrom University Town Center restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(191)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • La Jolla
Booked 2 times today
This full-service restaurant with a casually sophisticated atmosphere features bistro cuisine and a full bar. Enjoy fresh salads, specialty entrées, signature cocktails, a wine list and housemade desserts.Nordstrom is located along Genesee Avenue, between La Jolla Village Drive and Nobel Drive. Bazille is located on the 2nd floor, overlooking the main courtyard of the newly expanded UTC. We offer a full bar with wine, beer & hand crafted cocktails, as well as open patio dining. We are open for dine-in service, covered, heated outdoor patio dining and to-go orders with Curbside Pickup. Call (858) 812-3582 to place your order.Join us for Brunch on weekends;July 4th hours: 11am-5pm
A photo of The Godfather Restaurant restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1926)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Kearny Mesa
Booked 28 times today
The Godfather, a Balistreri restaurant, is an Italian monument in downtown San Diego providing authentic cuisine from the hills of Italy. Established in 1974, The Godfather is a sophisticated and classy establishment that centers around generational recipes from both Northern and Southern Italy. Over the years, the quality of food and standard of service has never declined and thus garnered The Godfather a national recognition as one of the top twenty-five Italian restaurants in the entire nation. The menu is filled with classic favorites based in steak, chicken and pasta. For an intimate evening for two, try the Sicilian kiss prix fixe meal that includes a bottle of champagne.
A photo of Torreyana restaurant
3.8
Excellent(125)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Torrey Pines
From breakfast to dinner and everything in between, the dining options at Torreyana are designed with you in mind. Savor delicious dishes prepared with only the freshest ingredients, or unwind with a craft cocktail by the outdoor fire pits at sunset. Additionally, enjoy an all-star selection of craft beer while you catch a game in the lounge on our 14 HD TVs including an 82-inch TV with surround sound.
A photo of AR Valentien at The Lodge at Torrey Pines restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2507)
Price: Very Expensive
• Farm-to-table • La Jolla
A.R. Valentien, the signature restaurant at the AAA Five Diamond resort The Lodge at Torrey Pines, features innovative California cuisine served in a breathtaking setting overlooking the Torrey Pines Golf Course and Pacific Ocean coastline. Executive Chef Kelli Crosson uses only the best local provisions, and the menu changes daily depending on what's offered at local farmers' markets, as well as from other local growers, ranchers and fishermen. The restaurant's wine list features California wines exclusively, including a variety of boutique wineries from throughout the state. A.R. Valentien’s sophisticated design includes artwork from the restaurant’s namesake, Albert Robert Valentien, and a spacious outdoor terrace. Special events include the seasonal Artisan Table dinner series and Celebrate the Craft, an annual charity event benefiting The Ecology Center.PLEASE NOTE: We will be temporarily closed starting Dinner, October 13 - March 2025, due to kitchen enhancement renovations
A photo of South of Nick's - Del Mar restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(684)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Del Mar
Booked 67 times today
An essential stop in San Diego for Southern California Mexican Cuisine.South of Nick's Mexican Kitchen & Bar features Classic Mexican favorites, prime steaks and seafood with a So Cal twist. Fine Tequilas & Margaritas Our food and drink meets the highest standards of quality, freshness and seasonality and combines both modern-creative and traditional styles of cooking. Nick’s is dedicated to perfecting the dining experience through continuous innovation, offering the highest quality food and beverage, and executing impeccable standards of hospitality. The deeply instilled Nick’s culture is personified by its Ladies and Gentlemen – professionals who share a single focus and are inspired and committed to offering great service and creating positive memorable experiences.
‘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.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Willie
    San Diego •3 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Some friends and I decided to try this place because they have an adult Happy Meal for only an hour M-F at the bar. But we loved the ambience so we decided to go during normal dinner hours. There were 4 of us and we share the 22oz Ribeye with Asparagus and Mushrooms. We also ordered the Dutch potatoes because they didn't have mashed potatoes. The steak was really good. It could've used more seasoning, but overall it was prepared well and was so juicy. The sides to the steak (asparagus and mushrooms) were delicious. The dutch potatoes were okay. They were soaked with a lot of lemon juice, but we appreciated that it was freshly squeezed lemon juice. And oh, the dinner rolls were delicious as well. Give them a try, you won't be disappointed. The only setback was the cost. My friends and I thought it was too pricey, particularly the drinks. I had my usual Ketel-Water-Lemon (aka Holy Water) which was $20 and my friends had Mango Mezcal, and Rose, all of which were priced higher than other places we've been. We will be back to experience the adult Happy Meal, hopefully we can get a seat at the bar. And OH! The service was excellent. From the Host, to the servers, to the busboys, everyone was kind and accommodating. Excellent service.
    More info
    Herb & WoodPrice: Expensive• Californian• Little Italy
    4.7
  • ChristopherVIP
    Austin •35 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Awesome will try to come back for lunch. Hand rolls are amazing! Burrito was out…standing
    More info
    The FisheryPrice: Expensive• Seafood• Pacific Beach
    4.8
  • Lorna
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    The dry aged tomahawk was soooooo gooood. Glad I made the choice to celebrate my birthday here. Also got some free bday gift on the house.
    More info
    HuntressPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Downtown
    4.6
  • Jaimie
    New York City •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Absolutely delicious! Innovative and fresh seafood dishes!! Loved it!! Leo was an excellent server-friendly, helpful, efficient and made our overall experience even better!
    More info
    Crudo Ceviche & Oyster BarPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Little Italy
    4.7
  • JANVIP
    San Diego •19 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Everything was great Except it took too long 2 get drinks. Also, the threat on OpenTable that 2 guests only get an hour and half is ridiculous and insulting. No way guests could complete this meal in that time. We were there 2 and a half hours and spent $250 before tip. The service is slow and meant 2 b.
    More info
    The Melting Pot - Gaslamp QuarterPrice: Very Expensive• Fondue• Downtown
    4.6
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