Best Lunch Restaurants in College Area

157 restaurants available nearby

1. Madi

4.7

Exceptional(426)

Price: Moderate

• Breakfast • Kensington

Booked 25 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!

2. One Door North

4.6

Exceptional(507)

Price: Moderate

• American • North Park

Booked 4 times today

At One Door North we host a New American Bar and Eatery that pays homage to the outdoors with the spirit of adventure, serving only fresh farm to table cuisine. Come enjoy the adventure with us, we look forward to serving you.

A photo of Flora - North Park restaurant

3. Flora - North Park

4.4

Awesome(21)

Price: Moderate

• American • North Park

Booked 23 times today

Well, darling, Flora is the talk of the town, and rightly so.Nestled on University Ave, this is where brunch meets a touch of haute indulgence; calling forth all who yearn to feel utterly free. Imagine a croissant salmon benedict, steak and eggs seared to perfection, decadent berry French toast, and yes—even fried rice, because Flora understands that brunch isn’t a one-size-fits-all affair. It’s an an aesthetic experience, a bona fide mood. Here, we say, “come as you are—or as whoever you wish to be.

A photo of Brigantine La Mesa restaurant

4. Brigantine La Mesa

4.8

Exceptional(4184)

Price: Moderate

• Seafood • La Mesa

Booked 34 times today

A San Diego tradition since 1969, the Brigantine has received many accolades in our 40+ year history: "BEST SEAFOOD", "BEST CASUAL SEAFOOD", "BEST HAPPY HOUR", and even "BEST SWORDFISH IN THE WORLD", according to USA Today - just to name a few.Well-known for our signature Clam Chowder, Grilled Swordfish, and Crème Brûlée, the Brigantine is a favorite among locals for consistently fresh seafood, succulent steaks and grilled meats. With an updated nautical decor, the busy Oyster bar is hands-down the local favorite. Lush flowering foliage outdoors creates an elegant dining experience on one of two charming patios.The La Mesa Brigantine serves dinner 7 nights a week, lunch Monday-Saturday, and brunch every Sunday.Join us for our signature Happy Hour.

A photo of Alexander's on 30th restaurant

5. Alexander's on 30th

4.8

Exceptional(3099)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • North Park

Booked 43 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 Aromi Italian Cuisine restaurant

6. Aromi Italian Cuisine

4.6

Exceptional(246)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • La Mesa

Booked 13 times today

Discover Aromi, where Italian authenticity meets affordability. Our casual Italian restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, serving up delicious dishes bursting with flavors at budget-friendly prices. From traditional pasta classics to mouthwatering entrees, Aromi ensures an unforgettable dining experience that won't break the bank.

A photo of Farmer's Table - La Mesa restaurant

7. Farmer's Table - La Mesa

4.3

Awesome(2021)

Price: Moderate

• Farm-to-table • La Mesa

Booked 11 times today

Excited to announce that we officially have four locations open in San Diego including Bay Park, Little Italy, La Mesa, and Chula Vista. As a family run operation we believe every good neighborhood deserves an eatery where locals and visitors can enjoy “honest food done right”. Here at Farmers Table, we specialize in farm-to-fork cuisine that focuses on bringing locally sourced organic ingredients together to be savored in an inviting family-friendly atmosphere, where adults and children can enjoy many different food options that are just right for them. If you are looking for a magical brunch this week, come stop by for an unforgettable night.

A photo of Limoncello La Mesa restaurant

8. Limoncello La Mesa

4.6

Exceptional(310)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • North Park

Booked 10 times today

Welcome to Limoncello, your go-to destination for authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of La Mesa. At Limoncello, we pride ourselves on delivering a true taste of Italy with our carefully curated menu inspired by traditional family recipes passed down through generations. Our dishes showcase the rich flavors of Italy, crafted using only the finest and freshest ingredients sourced locally and from Italy. From classic pasta dishes to mouthwatering pizzas and delectable desserts, each plate is a celebration of Italian culinary heritage. Come savor the warmth and hospitality of Italy right here in La Mesa at Limoncello, where every meal is a journey to the heart of Italian flavors.

A photo of Giardino Neighborhood Cucina restaurant

9. Giardino Neighborhood Cucina

4.7

Exceptional(1085)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Lemon Grove

Booked 7 times today

Located in the middle of Lemon Grove’s charming downtown area, Giardino is a welcoming and casual Italian inspired cucina where the neighborhood gathers for fresh and flavorful classic dishes found throughout Italy.Giardino offers an Italian-inspired menu of seasonally-driven dishes that use timeless Italian techniques and fresh ingredients. Guests will find items such as fresh seafood, pastas, pizzas and salads, as well as a variety of elements made in-house.

A photo of El Torito - La Mesa restaurant

10. El Torito - La Mesa

4.5

Awesome(449)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • La Mesa

Booked 4 times today

The authority in great Mexican food for more than 65 years. Offering a memorable experience to make each guest feel like family.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

OT
OpenTable Diner
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
An outstanding dining experience ! Food was delicious with good size portions. Service was prompt
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MadiPrice: Moderate• Breakfast• Kensington
•
4.7
E
Evelyn
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
We are never disappointed with The Brig and have been coming here for over 30 years. This time I decided to order something different from my usual. I had the stuffed seabass with shrimp and artichoke. It was SO GOOD! Alejandro was our sever and she was adorable, very patient with us. (party of 5 , 70-92 years old) Thank you for the MUD PIE for the birthday guys. Thanks for the consistent great good, great service and ambiance.
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Brigantine La MesaPrice: Moderate• Seafood• La Mesa
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4.8
M
Michele
Las Vegas •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
I’ve been wanting to try this place for a while. So glad I did. The drinks were amazing. I had the cauliflower appetizer and it was delectable. Definitely check them out!
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One Door NorthPrice: Moderate• American• North Park
•
4.6
S
SteveVIP
San Diego •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Great restaurant! We were greeted and seated by Oliver. Very friendly and gracious. Jesse was our server. He was excellent. Very friendly and attentive. The food was fantastic. There were six of us celebrating a birthday. Everyone raved about their individual meal. Highly recommend
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Alexander's on 30thPrice: Expensive• Italian• North Park
•
4.8
C
carmen
Orange County •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Everything was so good and waiters where really attentive. We really enjoyed our breakfast and is a beautiful restaurant. Presentation of the food was on point!
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Flora - North ParkPrice: Moderate• American• North Park
•
4.4

Best Lunch Restaurants in College Area

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157 restaurants available nearby

1. Madi

2. One Door North

3. Flora - North Park

4. Brigantine La Mesa

5. Alexander's on 30th

6. Aromi Italian Cuisine

7. Farmer's Table - La Mesa

8. Limoncello La Mesa

9. Giardino Neighborhood Cucina

10. El Torito - La Mesa

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