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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Imperial Beach

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17 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Farmer's Table - Chula Vista restaurant
1. Farmer's Table - Chula Vista
4.2
Awesome(374)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Chula Vista / Bonita
Farmer's Table in Chula Vista stands out as a gem for those seeking top-notch Contemporary Italian cuisine. This family-run establishment harmoniously blends farm-to-fork principles with the sophistication of Italian cooking, creating dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition. Reviews consistently praise their offerings, like the "Black Ink Squid Spaghetti Pasta," described as a "singular and remarkable dining experience" and the "Spaghetti Carbonara," noted for being "creamy, flavorful, and just like what you'd find in Italy." Patrons are enchanted by the ambiance and the dedication to locally-sourced, organic ingredients, ensuring every meal is not just eaten but savored. Whether it's a magical brunch or a cozy dinner, Farmer's Table delivers an authentic slice of Italy right in the heart of Chula Vista.
A photo of Cowboy Star restaurant
2. Cowboy Star
4.9
Exceptional(4725)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 30 times today
Cowboy Star in the vibrant heart of Downtown San Diego epitomizes the essence of Contemporary American cuisine with a wild-west twist. Celebrated for its dedication to regional heirloom recipes and superior service, Cowboy Star stands out for its use of local, natural, and organic ingredients, ensuring every dish sings with authenticity and freshness. The menu showcases exceptional dishes, such as the Niman Ranch all-natural beef, earning it rave reviews for the "best steak in SD" and a culinary experience that is both genuine and heartwarming. Diners consistently praise the "excellent vibe" and "impeccable service," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking the pinnacle of Contemporary American dining in San Diego.
A photo of Coco Maya restaurant
3. Coco Maya
4.7
Exceptional(375)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Little Italy
Booked 3 times today
Coco Maya in Little Italy, San Diego, is a delightful revelation in Contemporary American cuisine, offering a creative twist on classic American fare. The restaurant's use of a traditional Spanish-style coal-fired Josper oven brings a unique flavor profile to robust, flavorful proteins, setting it apart in a neighborhood rich with culinary offerings. Reviewers rave about the diverse menu, highlighting dishes like the "delicious" short rib pasta and "amazing" skirt steak. The ambiance, enhanced by sweeping views of Little Italy and a vibrant rooftop setting, is consistently praised. It’s not just the food that receives acclaim; the cocktail program, featuring a diverse mezcal and tequila selection, is also a highlight. Visitors describe their dining experience as “unforgettable,” noting the "fun atmosphere" and exceptional service that make Coco Maya a must-visit spot in San Diego.
A photo of Tavern restaurant
4. Tavern
4.5
Awesome(757)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Coronado
Booked 3 times today
Tavern, nestled in the charming neighborhood of Coronado, excels in offering an exceptional Comfort Food experience that locals and visitors alike rave about. Known for its cozy ambiance reminiscent of an old Irish pub, Tavern delivers dishes that are both heartwarming and mouthwatering. Patrons particularly praise the "delicious Cavatappi Mac & Cheese with bacon on top" and the "tender, perfectly cooked pork belly tostadas." The service is consistently noted as friendly and attentive, with reviews often highlighting the excellent staff. Whether it's the "amazing churros with hot chocolate dip" or the creatively crafted cocktails, Tavern ensures a memorable dining experience that keeps guests returning for more.
A photo of Bluewater Boathouse Seafood Grill restaurant
5. Bluewater Boathouse Seafood Grill
4.5
Awesome(1411)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Coronado
Booked 21 times today
At Bluewater Boathouse Seafood Grill in Coronado, a seafood experience awaits that is as authentic as it is delightful. Nestled in a historic, picturesque setting by Glorietta Bay, diners rave about the "best swordfish EVER" and the "amazing" seared scallops appetizers. The menu is celebrated for its variety and freshness, with guests frequently complimenting dishes like the miso sea bass that "melted in your mouth" and the rich, flavorful clam chowder paired with fresh sourdough. The ambiance, coupled with "excellent service," creates a perfect backdrop for enjoying top-tier seafood. Whether it's a casual meal or a special occasion, Bluewater Boathouse promises a memorable dining experience with every visit.
A photo of Topside Terrace restaurant
6. Topside Terrace
4.2
Awesome(385)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 1 time today
Topside Terrace, nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown San Diego, is a celebrated destination for those seeking the finest in Contemporary American cuisine. This open-air terrace blends the essence of coastal living with the urban charm of San Diego, offering a delightful array of Baja California and classic American fare. Guests rave about the "incredible rooftop brunch experience" and the "delicious wagyu slider and beet salad," highlighting the quality and creativity of the dishes. With glowing reviews like "delicious food, efficient service, live music and awesome San Diego weather, you can't go wrong," it's clear that Topside Terrace provides not just a meal, but a spectacular dining experience. Whether you're enjoying a lively evening under the heaters or a sunny brunch with live chill music, Topside Terrace promises a memorable culinary journey.
A photo of Chez Loma restaurant
7. Chez Loma
4.6
Exceptional(1763)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Coronado
Booked 6 times today
Chez Loma, nestled in the historic Carez Hizar House in Coronado, offers a French culinary experience that is both authentic and delightful. Celebrated for its "exceptional flavors" and "creative entrees," this bistro sources local ingredients to craft dishes that resonate with freshness and quality. Diners rave about the "best ever" lobster ravioli and the "perfectly cooked" roast duck, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to excellence. As one review puts it, Chez Loma is "experience dining at its best," making it a must-visit for those seeking a genuine taste of French cuisine in a charming and inviting setting.
A photo of Grant Grill restaurant
8. Grant Grill
4.8
Exceptional(1613)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 6 times today
Grant Grill, nestled in the heart of Downtown San Diego, offers a truly remarkable dining experience with its focus on Contemporary American cuisine. Since opening its doors in 1951, this iconic spot has been celebrated for its "exquisite" food and "superb" service. Diners rave about dishes like the "out of this world" mock turtle soup and perfectly seared ahi, emphasizing the grill's commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients. The ambiance, described as "perfect for our dinner date," complements the culinary delights, making every meal memorable. Whether it's the innovative libations or the "party in our mouths" flavors, Grant Grill stands out as a pinnacle of dining excellence in San Diego.
A photo of Bronze Bird restaurant
9. Bronze Bird
4.1
Excellent(138)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 2 times today
Bronze Bird in Downtown San Diego is your go-to destination for soul-satisfying Comfort Food. Nestled in The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, this eatery offers a casual yet refined atmosphere where every dish speaks volumes about its quality and authenticity. Patrons rave about the "amazing" steak frites and the "perfectly seasoned" ribeye, highlighting the culinary craft that Bronze Bird delivers. A diner enthused, "The burger here was amazing, one of the best hidden gems in San Diego," underscoring the restaurant's commitment to providing top-notch comfort dishes. Whether it's a pre-theater dinner or a casual meal, Bronze Bird's delightful array of entrées and shareables, complemented by exemplary service, makes it a standout choice for anyone craving hearty, comforting cuisine in a vibrant setting. Join the chorus of satisfied guests who assure, "We will definitely be back!"
A photo of The Desmond restaurant
10. The Desmond
4.5
Awesome(149)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Gaslamp
We're California born and bred. Best in the world? Yeah. We’ve got that. These are year-round farms. Lifelong fishermen. Orchards that thrive well beyond the fall. Our ingredients here in Southern California are the very best, and we treat them with the respect that they deserve. Join us for an experience that showcases the best of the bounty, with flavors that are truly memorable.
‘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.

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