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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Coronado

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33 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Saltwater restaurant
1. Saltwater
4.3
Awesome(584)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 4 times today
At Saltwater, located in the vibrant Gaslamp District of downtown San Diego, seafood lovers can savor the epitome of freshness and quality. Guests rave about the unique experience of selecting their desired seafood directly from an ice display, ensuring what arrives on their plate is exactly to their liking. As one guest enthused, the "salmon was tender and flavorful, while the scallops were perfectly seared, melting in our mouths with each bite." The authenticity of Saltwater’s seafood is unmatched, from the crowd-pleasing oysters to the praised lobster bisque and Mediterranean platter. With glowing testimonials like "Wow!!! Best happy hour" and "The BESTEST happy hour and service downtown," it's clear why Saltwater is a must-visit destination for an exceptional seafood dining experience in Southern California.
A photo of Blind Burro restaurant
2. Blind Burro
4.5
Awesome(672)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 2 times today
At The Blind Burro in Downtown San Diego, the spirit and flavors of contemporary Mexican cuisine come alive. Nestled in the vibrant East Village, this restaurant stands out for its fresh, coastal Baja-inspired dishes, which guests adore for their authenticity and creativity. Praised for its exceptional service and lively atmosphere, The Blind Burro offers an array of standout dishes, from sizzling surf & turf tacos to the beloved carne asada chimichangas, described by a patron as "phenomenal." Another diner raved, "The best chips and variety of salsas. Delicious drinks such as the sangria and Margarita on the rocks. Highly recommend the lobster tacos. To die for!" It's clear why this spot is a local favorite, perfect for a pre-game meal or a casual meetup, making every visit a delightful culinary adventure.
A photo of Kettner Exchange restaurant
3. Kettner Exchange
4.7
Exceptional(1332)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Little Italy
Booked 37 times today
Kettner Exchange in Little Italy, San Diego, is a paragon of Contemporary American cuisine, offering a unique dining experience that reflects the very essence of culinary innovation. With its expansive harbor views from the rooftop patio and the culinary prowess of Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski, the restaurant has consistently wowed diners and critics alike, earning a spot on the Michelin Guide's Bib Gourmand list since 2019. Reviews often highlight the inspired menu, such as one diner’s praise for the “magical” way flavors and textures are combined. Another reviewer raves, “UNBELIEVABLE! THE MOST INCREDIBLE DINING EXPERIENCE OF MY LIFE,” underscoring the exceptional quality and creativity on display. Kettner Exchange's commitment to a thrilling gastronomic journey makes it a must-visit for those seeking the best in Contemporary American fare.
A photo of Cowboy Star restaurant
4. Cowboy Star
4.9
Exceptional(4725)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 40 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
5. Coco Maya
4.7
Exceptional(375)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Little Italy
Booked 4 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 Topside Terrace restaurant
6. Topside Terrace
4.2
Awesome(385)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 2 times 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 Great Maple San Diego restaurant
7. Great Maple San Diego
4.8
Exceptional(4369)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Hillcrest
Booked 55 times today
Great Maple in San Diego's vibrant Hillcrest neighborhood is celebrated for its exemplary farm-to-table cuisine, crafting a menu that highlights seasonal and local ingredients. Diners rave about the "innovative dishes" and "fresh house-made pies," with special mentions to the "famous maple bacon doughnuts" which are described as an "absolute must-try." The commitment to freshness is palpable, with one reviewer noting, "How do you make veggies that good?" The atmosphere complements the dining experience with its "warm and welcoming ambiance," ensuring every meal is both a delight to the palate and a feast for the senses. Whether it's the "excellent service" or the "social wine list," Great Maple is a beloved destination for those seeking authentic, high-quality farm-to-table dining in San Diego.
A photo of The Smoking Goat Restaurant restaurant
8. The Smoking Goat Restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2634)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • North Park
Booked 12 times today
At The Smoking Goat in North Park, San Diego, French cuisine is redefined with a Californian touch, earning it the Gold Medallion for the best French Bistro in San Diego for three consecutive years. Executive Chef Fred Piehl, a Le Cordon Bleu Paris alumnus, masterfully blends rustic yet refined French techniques with San Diego's freshest ingredients. Patrons rave about the authentic French flavors with a local twist, describing dishes like the "perfectly cooked duck" and "incredible mussels and duck fat fries" as culinary marvels. The ambiance is consistently praised as "cozy and nice," making The Smoking Goat a must-visit for an authentic and delightful French dining experience.
A photo of Bronze Bird restaurant
9. Bronze Bird
4.1
Excellent(136)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 14 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
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.

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Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Coronado

Discover a vibrant dining experience in San Diego's Coronado neighborhood, where a selection of restaurants offers the finest in Contemporary American cuisine. These establishments are renowned for their unique blend of traditional and modern culinary techniques, delivering dishes that cater to a diverse range of tastes. Each restaurant in Coronado provides not only exceptional food but also an ambiance that enhances the overall dining experience, from historical bistro settings to scenic waterfront views. The dining scene in Coronado is characterized by its commitment to quality and innovation, often featuring locally-sourced ingredients and creative menus that reflect the area's cultural diversity. Whether you're enjoying a family meal, a romantic dinner, or a casual meet-up with friends, Coronado's restaurants promise an unmatched culinary journey. Patrons consistently praise the attentive service and the thoughtful preparation of food, emphasizing the local dining establishments' dedication to excellence. This summary of Contemporary American restaurants in Coronado, San Diego, highlights the region's culinary prowess and its ability to satisfy diners with delightful and expertly crafted meals. Ideal for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike, Coronado offers an unforgettable dining experience that combines great tastes with beautiful settings.

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