Best Casual Restaurants in National City

99 restaurants available nearby

1. Ciccia Osteria

4.7

Exceptional(177)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Barrio Logan

Booked 32 times today

Nestled in Barrio Logan, San Diego, Ciccia Osteria is a charming Italian restaurant that invites guests on a culinary journey through Italy. With its warm ambiance, attentive service, and exquisite cuisine, Ciccia Osteria is a beloved destination. Notably, it has won the Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024Entering Ciccia Osteria, guests are transported to Italy's bustling trattorias. The cozy interior, with small tables, exposed brick walls, and soft lighting, creates an intimate atmosphere perfect for any occasion.Committed to the finest ingredients and traditional techniques, Ciccia Osteria offers handmade pastas, succulent seafood, and tender meats, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience. The curated wine list features Italian and California wines to pair with the menu.Under Chef Mario Cassineri's guidance, Ciccia Osteria is more than a restaurant—it's a destination where guests can savor authentic Italian cuisine and create lasting memories.

2. La Bella's

4.4

Awesome(238)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Chula Vista / Bonita

Booked 2 times today

La Bella`s is known as "Where People Meet to Eat" is San Diego South Bay, Enjoy Italian Recipes handed down from Papa & Kitty at the Original La Bella's since 1955.At La Bella Café & Games next door, Reserve banquet table with No Cover Fee, for a special request to Reserve for 15 Guests or More will require a $1 per per person cover fee for 2 1/2 hour reservation, You can add time to your Event after Dining by enjoying the Billiards & Arcade Area, & Your Guests may Buy their Own Craft Brews & Fine Wines too! Reservation time may be extended by coordinate the Host, by releasing any unused tables toward the end of your event, La Bella`s offers Family Style Dinners & Our popular dishes in 4 quart Catering Trays.Events please call the Maitre D' at 619-426-8820 to confirm availability & cover fee.

3. Callie Restaurant

4.8

Exceptional(230)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mediterranean • Downtown

Booked 42 times today

Callie represents Chef Travis Swikard's debut solo project after spending a decade working alongside the esteemed Chef Daniel Boulud in New York City. The restaurant’s name, "Callie," comes from the Greek word "kallos," meaning "the most beautiful," and embodies its blend of Mediterranean cuisine with local ingredients and terroir, from sea to land from San Diego, Swikard's hometown. In 2022, Callie was acclaimed as one of America's top new restaurants by Esquire and Robb Report, and received both a Bib Gourmand and a Plate from the Michelin Guide. Callie is a dedicated supporter of Feeding San Diego, having contributed over 1 million meals to those in need in San Diego since its launch. Swikard is set to open his second restaurant in La Jolla in 2025.

4. C-Level

4.7

Exceptional(4907)

Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • Downtown

Booked 106 times today

Resting on stilts atop San Diego By C Level Lounge, is an upscale-casual lounge on the waterfront overlooking the city skyline and Coronado.

5. Buona Forchetta

4.6

Exceptional(854)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • South Park

Booked 53 times today

Buona Forchetta started in 2011 as a craving of Matteo’s to bring some of his native Italy to our adopted home of South Park. We found the perfect corner and built the perfect oven. Since then, we’ve strived to deliver an exceptional and authentic Italian experience to our customers keeping our focus on the simple recipes that Matteo grew up on. We owe a huge “grazie” to our neighbors who have joined us on this awesome journey, and we hope that you will continue to be part of our story.

6. Lala

4.5

Awesome(131)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Little Italy

Booked 25 times today

From the Owners of Barbusa .we bring you "Lala" a captivating blend of modern and classic Italian cuisine, paired with handcrafted cocktails in a cozy, sexy-chic ambiance. Our menu showcases timeless Italian flavors with a contemporary twist, from traditional Stuffed Shells to inventive loaded potato gnocchi. The intimate atmosphere, with dimmed lights and plush furnishings, sets the stage for romantic dinners or vibrant gatherings.Our bar is a haven of mixology artistry, featuring classic Negronis and signature creations like the "Lala Martini." Sustainability is a core value—we source responsibly and implement eco-friendly practices in both the kitchen and the bar. "Lala" isn't just a restaurant; it's a community that appreciates culinary excellence, inviting you to savor the extraordinary in every bite, sip, and moment. Join us for a celebration of Italian cuisine, crafted with contemporary flair, and served in an ambiance that exudes romance.

7. AKA San Diego

new

3.8

Excellent(59)

Price: Expensive

• Asian • Downtown

Booked 8 times today

Located in the bustling heart of Gaslamp, San Diego, AKA is more than just a restaurant. It’s a destination where exceptional food, craft cocktails, and an energetic nightlife converge. With a menu curated by renowned Chef Takuya Kudo, AKA offers a captivating fusion of Chinese, Japanese, and Thai culinary traditions, all crafted with fresh ingredients and innovative techniques. The venue features a vibrant atmosphere complemented by artisanal craft cocktails from mixologist Gerardo Bedolla and striking design by Cassandra Builer. AKA welcomes guests to indulge in its exquisite dishes while enjoying electrifying entertainment. Committed to transforming the dining and nightlife scene in San Diego, AKA offers a unique and unforgettable experience for everyone looking to savor gourmet cuisine, sip on craft cocktails, and dance the night away.

A photo of Ironside Fish & Oyster restaurant

8. Ironside Fish & Oyster

4.5

Awesome(4550)

Price: Moderate

• Seafood • Little Italy

Booked 108 times today

Little Italy was built by the fishing industry. Ironside attempts to continue that narrative. It's our contemporary interpretation of the classic fish house and oyster bar. Located in a historic auction house on India St we did a full comprehensive restoration of the building, with three open-air culinary hubs featuring an expansive raw bar, chefs table, and bakery. We tried to be mindful of the past while looking towards the future. A 4% surcharge will be added to all guest checks.Ironside is now taking reservations for patio and dining room seating. We are now offering Happy Hour MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY FROM 3:00PM - 5:00PM.

9. Kettner Exchange

4.7

Exceptional(1358)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary American • Little Italy

Booked 54 times today

Kettner Exchange boasts two levels of indoor/outdoor drinking and dining and Little Italy’s only rooftop patio with spanning harbor views. We feature Progressive American cuisine from critically acclaimed Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski. In 2019, Kettner Exchange was named to Michelin Guide's prestigious Bib Gourmand list. Kettner Exchange has proudly maintained this award every year thereafter. Originally introduced in 1997, the Bib Gourmand category highlights restaurants that serve high-quality meals which include two courses and a glass of wine or dessert for $40 or less.

A photo of Brigantine at Portside Pier restaurant

10. Brigantine at Portside Pier

4.7

Exceptional(4219)

Price: Expensive

• Seafood • Downtown

Booked 86 times today

The Brigantine is more than just home to some of San Diego’s finest seafood. It’s a place where locals and visitors alike come to share a lively atmosphere and authentic sense of community. The Morton family opened the first Brigantine on Shelter Island in 1969, with a vision that embraced the beach town lifestyle, a dedication to flavorful food, and a passion for friendly service. Today, we’re known far and wide for our San Diego-style surf and turf. From our award-winning fish tacos and freshly shucked oysters, to classic filet mignon or our perpetually best-selling marinated grilled swordfish. Always prepared to exceed expectations, and served with a smile. You can stop in at any neighborhood Brigantine and get a taste of the local flavor, from regionally inspired specials, to custom cocktails and home town craft beers. At the Brigantine we make first timers feel like regulars, and consider regulars part of the family. So come by often, and share our taste for life.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

M
MichelleVIP
Baltimore / Maryland •15 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
First time at C-level for a date night! We sat outside at table right next to water. The heaters made it comfortable and it was a beautiful view of the harbor! The server was great-perfect suggestions and attentive at the appropriate times. We had the oysters, artichoke fritters, wedge BLT, and filet. Then, the brownie sundae for dessert! It was all delicious! I will go back for the wedge BLT and sundae alone! It was a great dinner and would defintely recommend!
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C-LevelPrice: Moderate• Cocktail Bar• Downtown
•
4.7
M
Monserratt
San Diego •2 reviews
4.0
Dined 3 days ago
Celebrated our anniversary at our favorite Italian food spot
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Buona ForchettaPrice: Moderate• Italian• South Park
•
4.6
H
Haley
Phoenix / Arizona •1 review
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
One of the best meals we’ve ever had. We can’t wait to be back. We did the Mediterranean feast, it was 5 courses. The first course was dip trip with fresh out the oven pita that I could have made a whole meal off of. The baba ganoush was incredible. My husband doesn’t usually like it but it was his favorite of the dips. The second course was a yellowtail with a mild spice level that paired well. The third course was a potato pasta? It was delicious. Sometimes the descriptions of the course were hard to hear and read off fast. The next course was a crusted halibut & then finally a lemon meringue with coconut bark. I kept thinking the portions may be too small especially since my husband can eat a lot. But we both left more than full. I did the wine pairing with the meal & there wasn’t one that I didn’t like. I struggled to keep up throughout the meal & wasn’t able to finish the last glass but thoroughly enjoyed the experience here. The service was excellent. We had Connor and Aiden but everyone was very attentive.
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Callie RestaurantPrice: Very Expensive• Mediterranean• Downtown
•
4.8
K
Kate
Atlanta Metro •1 review
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Hands down, the best Italian food I’ve had in the US. Every dish had a perfect combination of flavors. The staff were friendly and the atmosphere was charming.
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Ciccia OsteriaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Barrio Logan
•
4.7
S
Sally
San Diego •3 reviews
5.0
Dined on 9 Nov 2024
We ordered the wings and large pizza with pepperoni and sausage. It was soooooo goooddd!!!!!
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La Bella'sPrice: Moderate• Italian• Chula Vista / Bonita
•
4.4

Best Casual Restaurants in National City

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99 restaurants available nearby

1. Ciccia Osteria

2. La Bella's

3. Callie Restaurant

4. C-Level

5. Buona Forchetta

6. Lala

7. AKA San Diego

8. Ironside Fish & Oyster

9. Kettner Exchange

10. Brigantine at Portside Pier

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