Best Southern American Restaurants in Kearny Mesa

144 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Butcher Shop Steakhouse - San Diego restaurant

1. Butcher Shop Steakhouse - San Diego

4.6

Exceptional(2582)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Kearny Mesa

Booked 9 times today

Butcher Shop Steakhouse in San Diego offers a quintessential American dining experience with its Chicago-style steakhouse ambiance. This hidden gem is renowned for its USDA Choice & Prime Midwestern steaks, expertly grilled over oak wood, providing a "delightful charred exterior and a hint of smoky richness." Diners rave about the "juicy prime rib" and "perfectly cooked ribeye," while the diverse menu ensures something for every palate. The restaurant's atmosphere is often described as "friendly and relaxing," making it an ideal spot for celebrations or intimate dinners. With "attentive and friendly" service, Butcher Shop Steakhouse guarantees a memorable American cuisine experience.

2. Forbidden Cove

4.4

Awesome(59)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Kearny Mesa

Booked 1 time today

Forbidden Cove is a hidden paradise in Kearny Mesa, San Diego, offering an authentic Hawaiian culinary experience that delights every sense. The enchanting speakeasy atmosphere, accessed through a secret rum barrel door, sets the stage for an unforgettable dining adventure. Guests rave about the "fantastic ambiance" and "delicious" Hawaiian-inspired dishes, like the fresh poke and Kalua pork nachos, which are praised for their "excellent flavor." The drinks are equally celebrated, with the Scorpion Bowl and Lapu Lapu described as "fruity citrus delights." Whether you're exploring their tiki elixirs or savoring their elevated Hawaiian cuisine, Forbidden Cove promises a taste of the islands that you'll want to revisit.

A photo of 94th Aero Squadron - San Diego restaurant

3. 94th Aero Squadron - San Diego

4.1

Excellent(3223)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Kearny Mesa

Booked 10 times today

The 94th Aero Squadron in San Diego is a true gem for steak enthusiasts, offering an authentic and memorable dining experience. Celebrated for its "USDA Choice Prime Beef steaks" and "slow-roasted Angus prime rib," this restaurant ensures every steak lover's dreams come true. Nestled in Kearny Mesa, it blends history with culinary excellence in a setting reminiscent of a World War I French farmhouse. Diners rave about the "beautiful outdoor patios" and "excellent service," making it a perfect spot for both casual and special occasions. With its unique ambiance and top-notch steak offerings, the 94th Aero Squadron is a must-visit for anyone seeking exceptional steak cuisine.

4. Boujiemana

4.8

Exceptional(134)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Serra Mesa

Booked 21 times today

BoujieMana in Serra Mesa, San Diego, is a shining example of exceptional American cuisine. Guests rave about its "inventive, beautifully presented, and delicious" dishes, which showcase the perfect blend of traditional American flavors with a modern twist. Known for its impeccable service and warm, inviting ambiance, this hidden gem offers an unforgettable dining experience. The menu's standout items, like the "perfectly aged steak" and "Boujie burger," are crafted with the finest ingredients, emphasizing quality at every turn. With its reputation for remarkable food and atmosphere, BoujieMana is a must-visit for anyone seeking the best of American dining.

A photo of Gravity Heights Mission Valley restaurant

5. Gravity Heights Mission Valley

4.7

Exceptional(209)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Mission Valley

Booked 18 times today

Gravity Heights Mission Valley offers an exceptional Californian cuisine experience that perfectly marries the vibrant San Diego beer scene with a stellar dining experience. Located in the heart of Mission Valley, this spacious brewpub is known for its "delicious food, exceptional service, and genuine hospitality." The expansive outdoor beer garden and inviting ambiance make it a perfect spot to enjoy the Californian flavors that diners rave about. Reviews highlight the "amazing place and food," with standout dishes like the "Golden Mustard Chicken wings" and the "Tikka Masala pot pie." It's a must-visit for anyone looking to savor authentic Californian cuisine.

A photo of Seasons 52 - San Diego - UTC restaurant

6. Seasons 52 - San Diego - UTC

4.8

Exceptional(4996)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • University City/Golden Triangle

Booked 62 times today

Nestled in the vibrant University City/Golden Triangle area of San Diego, Seasons 52 - UTC is renowned for its exceptional Seafood cuisine. Diners rave about the "fabulous" Chilean sea bass, which is described as "tender inside and crispy outside," showcasing the restaurant's commitment to quality and freshness. The mahi mahi tacos are another highlight, praised for their "flavorful and tasty" preparation. Seasons 52's dedication to using seasonal ingredients ensures that each dish bursts with natural flavors, delivering an authentic Seafood experience. With excellent service and a charming atmosphere, it's no wonder guests leave feeling delighted and eager to return.

7. ARLO San Diego

4.3

Awesome(770)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Mission Valley

Booked 8 times today

ARLO San Diego in Mission Valley is a seafood lover's paradise, offering an authentic and exquisite dining experience. With dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients, ARLO stands out as a beacon of quality Seafood cuisine. Diners rave about the "tender and packed with flavor" octopus and the "perfectly cooked and seasoned" Pan Roasted Seabass, praising the melt-in-your-mouth quality of the seafood. The restaurant's vibrant atmosphere, coupled with a sweeping patio and inventive cocktails, makes it a must-visit destination. ARLO's accolades, including Best Hotel Restaurant in San Diego Magazine's Best of 2024, further attest to its exceptional seafood offerings.

8. La Pastaia

4.2

Awesome(312)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Bay Park

Booked 6 times today

La Pastaia in Bay Park, San Diego is a hidden gem for authentic American cuisine, delivering a dining experience that diners rave about. From the moment you step inside, you're embraced by an inviting and warm atmosphere that sets the stage for a delightful meal. "What a gem! Such a beautiful spot with amazing food and wonderful service," one guest exclaims. The restaurant's dedication to quality is evident in every dish, from perfectly cooked ribeye steaks to creative American-inspired appetizers. With an attentive staff that goes above and beyond—"Sergio's service was beyond anything"—La Pastaia is a must-visit for those seeking an exceptional American dining experience.

A photo of True Food Kitchen - San Diego FV restaurant

9. True Food Kitchen - San Diego FV

4.5

Awesome(1927)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Mission Valley

Booked 33 times today

True Food Kitchen in San Diego is a haven for those seeking high-quality Vegetarian and Vegan cuisine. Located in the vibrant Fashion Valley area, this chef-driven restaurant is celebrated for its "delicious and fresh" vegetarian dishes that are both nutrient-dense and full of flavor. Diners rave about standout dishes like the spaghetti squash casserole, which is described as "rich, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned," and the butternut squash pizza, praised for its "unique and delicious take on pizza." With an "inviting atmosphere" and attentive service, True Food Kitchen promises an exceptional dining experience that combines health and indulgence seamlessly.

10. Studio Diner

3.9

Excellent(4)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Kearny Mesa

Booked 2 times today

Do the time warp down Ruffin Road and feast your eyes on the neon-lighted Studio Diner. It’s an authentic trip back to the ’40s — in the middle of the Kearny Mesa Business District. Wrapped in chrome & Blue neon, the Diner is a welcome roadside stop.

‘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.

Explore OpenTable

Kearny Mesa

Southern american

Best Southern American Restaurants in Kearny Mesa

Price

Regions

Areas

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating Options

Award-winning

Accessibility

144 restaurants available nearby

1. Butcher Shop Steakhouse - San Diego

2. Forbidden Cove

3. 94th Aero Squadron - San Diego

4. Boujiemana

5. Gravity Heights Mission Valley

6. Seasons 52 - San Diego - UTC

7. ARLO San Diego

8. La Pastaia

9. True Food Kitchen - San Diego FV

10. Studio Diner

Explore OpenTable