Best Southern American Restaurants in Ocean Beach

130 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Shop - Ocean Beach restaurant

1. The Shop - Ocean Beach

4.6

Exceptional(14)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Ocean Beach

THE SHOP PIZZA + WINE is a family owned and operated restaurant in Ocean Beach, specializing in west coast deep-dish and traditional crust pizza, served with a range of fresh salads, appetizers, and sandwiches -- all made from scratch daily. Our menu is simple but well-executed, with a focus on local, organic, and sustainable ingredients. Our signature crust isn’t New York…it isn’t Chicago.. it is West Coast Deep Dish. Come check it out for yourself!Not feeling like pizza? Our selection of fresh salads, pastas, sandwiches, or appetizers will satisfy any mood! All made from scratch… right here.We offer a thoughtful selection of wine and beer, focused on small and ecologically conscientious producers. Explore our wine program and find unique varietals, expressions, and styles that you perhaps haven't enjoyed before! All wines are available by the glass, flight, bottle, or to go.

2. Herb & Wood

4.7

Exceptional(6438)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Little Italy

Booked 59 times today

Herb & Wood in Little Italy, San Diego, epitomizes the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with a delightful twist of Californian flair. Celebrated Chef Brian Malarkey crafts a menu that transforms simple ingredients into a symphony of flavors, all centered around a wood-fired concept that accentuates each dish's rustic, authentic taste. Reviewers consistently praise the restaurant's vibrant atmosphere and innovative dishes, with one guest exclaiming, "The bone marrow and oyster dish was especially impressive!" and another noting the "swordfish was very fresh and tasty." Herb & Wood not only offers a feast for the taste buds but also a Mediterranean dining experience that is both heartfelt and memorable, making it a culinary jewel in San Diego.

3. Kettner Exchange

4.7

Exceptional(1334)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Little Italy

Booked 44 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 Ironside Fish & Oyster restaurant

4. Ironside Fish & Oyster

4.4

Awesome(4534)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Little Italy

Booked 81 times today

Nestled in the heart of San Diego's vibrant Little Italy, Ironside Fish & Oyster is a gem for seafood enthusiasts. Celebrated for its dedication to the freshest and highest quality seafood, this restaurant has transformed a historic auction house into a bustling seafood haven with an expansive raw bar and open-air culinary hubs. Patrons rave about their "10/10 plump oysters" and assert that the "fish and chips may be the best in San Diego." Not to be missed are their lobster rolls, described as "the best thing I ever had!" With its cool vibe and exceptional service, Ironside Fish & Oyster offers an unforgettable dining experience right by the docks where the city's fishing legacy continues to thrive.

A photo of Bali Hai Restaurant restaurant

5. Bali Hai Restaurant

4.6

Exceptional(5968)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Shelter Island / San Diego Bay

Booked 44 times today

Experience the essence of Hawaiian cuisine at Bali Hai Restaurant, a culinary gem nestled on Shelter Island in San Diego Bay. Celebrating over fifty years of tradition, Bali Hai is renowned for its authentic and exotic Pacific dining. Patrons rave about the stunning bay views and the "out of this world" Salmon Wellington, elevating every dining experience into a special event. With glowing reviews like "the best mai tai’s in the business" and "wonderful view, beautiful service, and amazing food and drink," it's clear that Bali Hai captures the spirit of Hawaii. Whether it’s the extensive Sunday brunch buffet featuring seafood delights or the unique tiki drinks, every visit promises a delightful escape to the islands, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists seeking a taste of Hawaii in San Diego.

6. The Fishery

4.7

Exceptional(3051)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Pacific Beach

Booked 48 times today

Nestled just blocks from the ocean in North Pacific Beach, San Diego, The Fishery epitomizes exceptional Californian cuisine with its dedication to fresh, local ingredients. Celebrated for its coastal-inspired menu, the restaurant has earned accolades such as the Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence from 2018 to the present. Patrons consistently rave about the quality and creativity of the dishes. One diner exclaimed, "Best Seafood in San Diego. All the food items were well made, tasty and delicious." With its focus on seasonality and a superb wine list that complements the vibrant flavors of each dish, The Fishery offers an authentic taste of California's rich coastal bounty in a setting that's as welcoming as it is picturesque.

7. The Presley

4.4

Awesome(1215)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Point Loma

Booked 36 times today

The Presley is a dynamic outdoor restaurant located in Liberty Station. A great place to gather, The Presley features classic American fare, local seafood, and unique shareable options, as well as an extensive cocktail list that includes frozen drinks, a dole whip mimosa and more! You can always take advantage of the beautiful San Diego weather on our expansive patios complete with lush greenery, fire pits and swinging benches.As we are a mostly outdoor restaurant, keep the following notes in mind: We do have heaters placed around the restaurant but dress warm for chilly evenings. In the case of a last minute closure for inclement weather, we will contact you via phone to let you know and to help you reschedule.

A photo of Ponyboy at The Pearl Hotel restaurant

8. Ponyboy at The Pearl Hotel

4.7

Exceptional(45)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Point Loma

Booked 6 times today

Nearly 70 years after its arrival onto the San Diego boutique hotel landscape, Point Loma’s iconic mid-century modern Pearl Hotel has unveiled the latest chapter in its storied history with an ambitiously reimagined restaurant and bar: Ponyboy. The inspiration behind Ponyboy extends beyond its décor and menu. Named after the protagonist of S.E. Hinton’s The Outsiders, the restaurant conveys the spirit of individuality and rebellion in a time when hope and resilience were pivotal to navigating the challenges of a changing world. Guests will sense the nod to cultural iconography as they step into a space that feels familiar and refreshingly new. The ambiance is designed to harken back to a bygone era when traditional American comfort foods and elaborate dinner parties were both fashionable and fun. We look forward to seeing you soon, drink in hand, soaking in the sun pool-side. Stay gold, San Diego.

9. Paradisaea

4.7

Exceptional(558)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • La Jolla

Booked 19 times today

Nestled in the historic Piano Building in the heart of La Jolla's vibrant Bird Rock community, Paradisaea epitomizes the essence of Californian cuisine with its commitment to quality, flavor, and local sourcing. Celebrated for its "crave-able, accessible fare executed at the highest level," this destination restaurant has become a local favorite, with diners praising its "amazing food and service" and the "extraordinary" chef's tasting menu. The ambiance, described as both "vibrant" and "soothing," complements the meticulously prepared dishes, from the fresh oysters to the flavorful steak au poivre, each "beautifully presented and delicious." Paradisaea's dedication to the Californian tradition of fresh, innovative dining is evident, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a truly remarkable meal in La Jolla.

A photo of Ketch Grill & Taps - Point Loma restaurant

10. Ketch Grill & Taps - Point Loma

4.6

Exceptional(53)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Point Loma

Booked 19 times today

20 Tap Handles featuring our Ketch Brewing beers and several guest taps. Modern Casual Faire overlooking San Diego Bay and the sportfishing fleet of Point Loma

‘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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Best Southern American Restaurants in Ocean Beach

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130 restaurants available nearby

1. The Shop - Ocean Beach

2. Herb & Wood

3. Kettner Exchange

4. Ironside Fish & Oyster

5. Bali Hai Restaurant

6. The Fishery

7. The Presley

8. Ponyboy at The Pearl Hotel

9. Paradisaea

10. Ketch Grill & Taps - Point Loma

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