Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. San Diego

Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in San Diego

Price
Cuisine
Regions
Areas
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Award-winning
Accessibility

55 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Herb & Wood restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(6491)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Little Italy
Booked 95 times today
A timeless, sought-after dining escape, celebrated Chef Brian Malarkey opened Herb & Wood to instant acclaim over four years ago. In that time, the restaurant has become an icon, a dining destination that has helped to propel San Diego's culinary reputation to new heights. By focusing on rustic, wood-fired dishes, Chef Malarkey's menu elevates humble ingredients such as carrots, beets, and chicken, incorporating Mediterranean flavors and a California ethos of seasonality and sustainability.
A photo of Cesarina restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(5537)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Ocean Beach
Booked 233 times today
Cesarina is a grandmother, a mother, a daughter—our personification of a nurturer who feeds and cares for her community. From meticulous attention to detail and fresh ingredients to the warm and inviting atmosphere, this restaurant is a celebration of the power of food and family.
A photo of Harmony Cuisine 2B1 restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(258)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Kearny Mesa
Booked 15 times today
Harmony Cuisine 2B1 is a gem of a restaurant, earning a nod as an OpenTable Diners' Choice 2022 and 2023. With its modern, relaxing atmosphere and traditional sushi and fusion dishes created by Master Chef Mickey Ninomiya, it's a hit among diners. As one reviewer said, 'The food was extraordinary... everything about this place was charming! The staff was kind and attentive.' Another praised the 'amazing, unique food, great staff' and the 'wonderful ambiance.' So, if you're looking for a culinary journey, this place is worth the drive!
A photo of Alexander's on 30th restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(3096)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • North Park
Booked 50 times today
Neighborhood gem located in the heart of the Historic North Park District, adjoining Balboa Park and the world famous San Diego Zoo. Specializing in homestyle Italian with Gourmet Flair. Hand made Pastas, Award Winning Pizza and Voted Best of Restaurants by San Diego Magazine "Most Romantic". Listed as Top 25 Places to Eat in San Diego "Before You Die" by San Diego Union Tribune. Make memorable celebrations on our beautiful patio, the perfect ambiance for any occasion. Remember to try our diners favorites, The Theodore's Fix Pizza and Baked Vodka Bolognese.Look forward to serving you soon!
A photo of Boujiemana restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(134)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Serra Mesa
Booked 16 times today
Voted one of the top ten best ambiance restaurants and the #1 Mediterranean food spot in San Diego, BoujieMana is a secluded gem just a two-minute drive from all the restaurants on Convoy. With over 100 parking spots, we make dining easy and convenient. Our executive chef and team use the finest ingredients from the Mediterranean or our onsite garden to create delicious and timeless dishes that change with the seasons. Whether you're enjoying charcuterie and bubbles with friends or savoring a perfectly aged steak, BoujieMana offers an unforgettable dining experience. Visit us and discover the perfect meal in our charming, hidden location.Please take a moment to make a reservation especially around the holiday season since we often have full campus events where dine in service is limited.
A photo of El Sueño restaurant
4.1
Excellent(180)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Old Town
Booked 22 times today
Coming Soon to Open Table!Vibrant Mexican Food and Craft Cocktails.
A photo of Siamo Napoli restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1328)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • North Park
Booked 36 times today
Specializing in Napolitano style pizza and pasta. We focus on clean fresh ingredients that thrive in our home land and make simple foods the star. We have a full bar with hand crafted drinks and a range of wines from Napoli and beyond.
A photo of Elvira restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(420)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Ocean Beach
Booked 67 times today
Benvenuti Nella Mia Cucina, Belli De Nonna! Before we dive into the delicious feast prepared for you, let me give you a little taste of my vita. I was born in the heart of Rome, and I've been cooking up a storm my entire life! My cucina has always been the center of the universe for my 3 daughters, 5 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, their friends, loved ones, and acquaintances – everyone was always Benvenuto!Now, we've brought that same love and flavor right here to San Diego. My beloved grandson, Niccolo', and his amore, Cesarina, are opening the doors of my Cucina with the same warm heart and passion.Wondering how I made it to 95? Well, it's simple: I ate everything that's served here and filled my life with amore! So, Benvenuti! Don't hesitate to indulge in "Scarpetta" - dip that bread into the sauce, just like my grandchildren used to do at the stove when they thought I wasn't looking.Here, Belli De Nonna, it’s all about food, family, and creating beautiful memories!
A photo of Louisiana Purchase SD restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(690)
Price: Expensive
• Creole / Cajun / Southern • North Park
Booked 54 times today
Conveniently set on Louisiana Street in North Park, our design of this intimate cocktail restaurant was inspired by the charm &; character of New Orleans, with creative touches of personal effects giving guests the feeling of warmth, community & fun Architect Jeff Svitak helped create a modern interpretation of a classic French Quarter restaurant, introducing elements of wood, marble &; rich velvet. Our lush patio seating flows seamlessly into our indoor dining space, a nod to the courtyards found across the beautiful southern city.Our rotating food menu will be dedicated to only the best seasonal ingredients, featuring big &; bold flavors from the region. Executive Chef Quinnton Austin recently relocated to San Diego from New Orleans, bringing with him an exciting wealth of knowledge &; experience in the culinary melting pot that defines southern cuisineAlligator Cheesecake, Andouille Fried Red Beans & Rice w/Chipotle Mousse, &
A photo of Madi restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(425)
Price: Moderate
• Breakfast • Kensington
Booked 72 times today
Bringing all-day brunch and grab-and-go coffee to Normal Heights, Madi is the upcoming daytime counterpart to Madison on Park, the well-established mid-century modern restaurant and bar that opened in University Heights in 2015. Offering a quick-service coffee counter fueled by Heartwork Coffee out of Mission Hills that’ll feature the full range of espresso drinks, specialty beverages, and tea as well as fresh pastries, Madi will also be an anytime option for sit-down breakfasts, mimosa-powered brunches, and casual lunches.Its breakfast menu ranges from waffle churro sticks and breakfast burritos to skirt steak eggs Benedict and a variety of pancakes based on a 60-year-old recipe from Madison co-owner Matthew, whose family runs a century-old breakfast spot in the midwest.Lunch will hinge on build-your-own grain and salad bowls along with lettuce wraps, ceviche, a burger, and a classic Tuna Melt!
‘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
From verified diners like you
  • Mariana
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We really like the options on the menu, different and new things to taste. The service was really good, but not outstanding. The place it’s kinda small, on the inside it’s very loudly, but in general it’s good. I would recommend it, pretty good option to choose in San Diego!
    More info
    MadiPrice: Moderate• Breakfast• Kensington
    4.7
  • LeslieVIP
    Phoenix / Arizona •14 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Wonderful location over looking the ocean. Fish tacos were amazing. Barbecued chicken salad was a hit as well. Had a table by the glass wall looking out over the bay. Our waitress was so sweet and attentive Definitely will come back.
    More info
    Duke's La JollaPrice: Moderate• Hawaii Regional Cuisine• La Jolla
    4.6
  • Dr . SamVIP
    San Diego •30 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Been before and loved it, so we took our brother for his birthday. We ordered multiple appetizers and entrees, sharing all the dishes. Outstanding service (thank you Paolo) and off the charts delicious. The flavors of some the dishes were so brilliant that it's memorable. Try the cheesecake dessert. They make it fresh. Love, love, love.
    More info
    Crudo Ceviche & Oyster BarPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Little Italy
    4.6
  • Kathleen
    Phoenix / Arizona •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 25 Dec 2024
    Simply put, one of the best meals I have had the privilege of enjoying! Delightful server, Calvin, was very in tune with the timing of our meal and our needs. The fixed menu was perfect for Christmas Eve, as it kept the meal flowing and decision-making to a minimum. Every course was delectable from the scallop crudo, the creamed mushrooms, and the sea bass, to the date cake with walnut ice cream! Mezcal hibiscus cocktail was creative and tasty, as well! I will definitely be back!
    More info
    Herb & WoodPrice: Expensive• Californian• Little Italy
    4.7
  • Catalina
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 20 Dec 2024
    We are always happy to dine at The Venetian. It’s a tradition in our family, and we feel like we’ve been invited to a family dinner with fabulous food and terrific service!
    More info
    The Venetian RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Italian• Point Loma
    4.6
  • Privacy policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable Australia Level 22, 357 Collins Street, Melbourne, Victoria - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo