Best Southwest American Restaurants in Kensington

171 restaurants available nearby

1. Herb & Wood

4.6

Exceptional(6499)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Little Italy

Booked 83 times today

Herb & Wood in San Diego's vibrant Little Italy is a shining example of exquisite American cuisine. Celebrated Chef Brian Malarkey crafts a menu that elevates rustic, wood-fired dishes, blending Mediterranean flair with California's commitment to seasonality and sustainability. Diners rave about the "incredible dinner" experience, showcasing "amazing, flavorful food" and "outstanding service." The ambiance is described as "beautiful" and "welcoming," making every visit memorable. Signature dishes like the pork belly and filet mignon are praised for their exceptional taste. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a night out, Herb & Wood promises a "truly memorable culinary experience."

A photo of Ironside Fish & Oyster restaurant

2. Ironside Fish & Oyster

4.5

Awesome(4571)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Little Italy

Booked 127 times today

Ironside Fish & Oyster in San Diego's Little Italy is a quintessential hotspot for authentic American cuisine, seamlessly blending traditional and contemporary flavors. This gem pays homage to its roots in the fishing industry with a mouthwatering menu that features renowned dishes such as the lobster roll and clam chowder, praised for being “chock full of clams.” The vibrant atmosphere and top-notch service are frequently highlighted in reviews, with one diner noting the “excellent experience, food, and ambience.” With a stellar raw bar and an enticing happy hour, Ironside promises a “delightful experience” that diners find irresistible.

A photo of Great Maple San Diego restaurant

3. Great Maple San Diego

4.8

Exceptional(4411)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Hillcrest

Booked 111 times today

Great Maple San Diego, nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Hillcrest, is a beacon of excellence in Contemporary American cuisine. This modern eatery is celebrated for its "outstanding" food and "exceptional" service, making it a favorite destination for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Diners rave about the delightful maple bacon donuts and "delectable" brisket hash, highlighting the creative use of fresh, local ingredients. Reviewers consistently praise the "huge portions" and "fantastic flavors," ensuring no one leaves hungry. With its inviting atmosphere and "friendly" staff, Great Maple offers a truly authentic and memorable dining experience that captures the essence of Contemporary American cuisine.

4. Kettner Exchange

4.7

Exceptional(1374)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Little Italy

Booked 73 times today

Kettner Exchange in Little Italy, San Diego, offers an exceptional Asian fusion experience that is both inventive and authentic. Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski’s creations have earned the restaurant a coveted spot on the Michelin Guide's Bib Gourmand list since 2019, showcasing high-quality meals at accessible prices. Diners rave about the "spicy garlic noodles" and "juicy cheeseburger special," underscoring the delightful fusion of flavors. The rooftop patio with stunning harbor views enhances the dining ambiance, making it perfect for any occasion. Guests frequently praise the "stellar service" and "amazing cocktails," solidifying Kettner Exchange as a must-visit destination for Asian cuisine enthusiasts.

5. Cowboy Star

4.9

Exceptional(4773)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • Downtown

Booked 74 times today

Cowboy Star in downtown San Diego is a gem of Contemporary American cuisine, capturing the essence of regional American heirloom recipes with a modern twist. Their commitment to using locally sourced, natural, and organic ingredients shines through every dish, offering "exceptional quality" that diners rave about. Known for their impeccable service and warm atmosphere, Cowboy Star is celebrated for its perfectly cooked steaks, with one reviewer exclaiming, "the best steakhouse in San Diego, PERIOD." The diverse menu, which includes top-notch wine and cocktails, ensures that every visit is a "memorable and enjoyable experience," making Cowboy Star a must-visit for any steak lover.

A photo of Louisiana Purchase SD restaurant

6. Louisiana Purchase SD

4.6

Exceptional(693)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • North Park

Booked 63 times today

At Louisiana Purchase SD in North Park, San Diego, authentic Creole cuisine takes center stage, delighting diners with "flavor-packed, perfectly seasoned" dishes that transport you straight to New Orleans. Executive Chef Quinnton Austin, a New Orleans native, infuses each dish with his extensive knowledge and passion for Southern flavors, ensuring an experience that is both genuine and unforgettable. Guests rave about signature items like the "Alligator Cheesecake" and "Rasta Pasta," applauding the rich, bold tastes and generous portions. With its warm, vibrant atmosphere and exceptional service, Louisiana Purchase SD promises a truly memorable dining experience for anyone craving a taste of the South.

A photo of The Smoking Goat Restaurant restaurant

7. The Smoking Goat Restaurant

4.7

Exceptional(2647)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • North Park

Booked 31 times today

The Smoking Goat Restaurant in North Park, San Diego, delivers an exceptional Contemporary French / American experience that has garnered rave reviews and awards, including the Gold Medallion for the best French Bistro in San Diego three years running. Executive Chef Fred Piehl's masterful blend of classic French techniques with the fresh, sustainable bounty of San Diego offers a "rustic, yet refined" culinary journey. Diners have lauded dishes such as the "perfectly cooked" duck l'orange and the "delicious" prime rib, each beautifully presented. With an attentive staff and a well-curated selection of wines and craft cocktails, The Smoking Goat promises a memorable dining experience.

8. CUCINA urbana

4.8

Exceptional(7120)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Banker's Hill

Booked 56 times today

CUCINA urbana in Banker's Hill, San Diego, offers an exceptional American dining experience with a California-inspired twist. Renowned for its "amazing food and ambience," this restaurant seamlessly blends comfort with contemporary flair, creating a warm yet stylish environment. Diners rave about the "fantastic food and service," particularly highlighting the exquisite pasta and woodfire pizzas that are "second to none." The restaurant's wine program is a standout feature, offering an impressive selection that perfectly complements the menu. With attentive staff and a lively atmosphere, CUCINA urbana is the perfect spot for celebrating life events or enjoying a memorable meal.

A photo of Parc Bistro-Brasserie restaurant

9. Parc Bistro-Brasserie

4.8

Exceptional(3145)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Banker's Hill

Booked 51 times today

Parc Bistro-Brasserie, nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Banker's Hill in San Diego, is a hidden gem that has earned its place among OpenTable's "100 Best Neighborhood Gems in America for 2021." This charming bistro not only excels in French cuisine but also offers a delightful blend of American flavors, making it a standout choice for those seeking authentic American fare. Diners rave about the "amazing experience" and "excellent food and great service" that make every visit memorable. With a cozy ambiance and a menu that promises both tradition and innovation, Parc Bistro-Brasserie is a must-visit for anyone craving American culinary excellence.

A photo of Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego restaurant

10. Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego

4.7

Exceptional(975)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Downtown

Booked 47 times today

Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego is a standout destination for Pizza Bar cuisine, offering a delightful experience in the heart of Downtown San Diego. Known for its woodfire-oven baked pizzas, Provisional serves up authentic Italian flavors that have earned rave reviews for their "extraordinary service and quality." Guests appreciate the "beautiful venue" and "lovely atmosphere," which enhance the dining experience. The pizzas, crafted with fresh ingredients and a perfect crisp crust, are a testament to the restaurant's commitment to excellence. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Provisional promises a memorable culinary journey with its top-notch Pizza Bar offerings.

‘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

M
Mary Evangeline
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined today
Great place! Make sure to setup a reservation because there’s always a waitlist
More info
Blanco Cocina + Cantina - CoronadoPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Coronado
•
4.7
J
JohnVIP
Phoenix / Arizona •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
fast service excellent food quality and reasonable prices
More info
Ortega's A Mexican BistroPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Hillcrest
•
4.6
N
Nicole
Phoenix / Arizona •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on 3 Jan 2025
The staff was very attentive to our group of 11. We were pleased with the quality of food and the time it took to prepare.
More info
Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Fashion ValleyPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Mission Valley
•
4.7
M
Melanie
San Diego •59 reviews
4.0
Dined on 26 Dec 2024
Definitely glad we made reservations! It was Christmas night and super busy! Our server was great. Food was good, got a Carnitas taco and it was gushy and had no pork taste. We decided it was pot roast not carnitas! Very disappointed. The white rice was interesting, never seen that at a Mexican restaurant before. Beans were good. The other taco I had was delicious! I think it was called the Gringo. I will go back just for that taco!! Overall it was a good night! We will be back
More info
Casa De Freds, Tacos y TequilaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Old Town
•
4.5
C
Cynthia
San Diego •11 reviews
5.0
Dined on 10 Nov 2024
The food was delicious! The drinks were also delicious! Food is moderately priced, but the drinks are quite expensive! Guacamole was plentiful and very tasty! Our server was extremely helpful and personable! First time at blind and we would come again!
More info
Blind BurroPrice: Moderate• Mexican / Southwestern• Downtown
•
4.7

Explore OpenTable

Kensington

Mexican

Best Southwest American Restaurants in Kensington

Price

Regions

Areas

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating Options

Award-winning

Accessibility

171 restaurants available nearby

1. Herb & Wood

2. Ironside Fish & Oyster

3. Great Maple San Diego

4. Kettner Exchange

5. Cowboy Star

6. Louisiana Purchase SD

7. The Smoking Goat Restaurant

8. CUCINA urbana

9. Parc Bistro-Brasserie

10. Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable