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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Downtown

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46 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge restaurant
4.5
Awesome(620)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary Italian • Downtown
Booked 15 times today
Located in the heart of Downtown San Diego near the marina district, Salvatore's inspired by the elegant minimalist details of nature. Salvatores is walking distance from the San Diego convention center and downtown hotel/resort district. The kitchen draws influence from the shores of the Mediterranean and Italy, while creating a visionary express of flavorful and modern California Mediterranean cuisine. Salvatores San Diego embodies a multi-sensory culinary sanctuary for our guests to escape, disconnect and have a great time. EUDAIMONIA' the contended, happy state you feel when you travel.
A photo of The Melting Pot - Gaslamp Quarter restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2572)
Price: Very Expensive
• Fondue • Downtown
Booked 22 times today
Welcome to The Melting Pot San Diego Gaslamp. Located on 5th Ave & E St in the historic Gaslamp Plaza Suites, the San Diego - Gaslamp Melting Pot Restaurant brings a truly unique, romantic and interactive four-course fondue dining experience to San Diego's vibrant downtown dining scene!
A photo of Operacaffe restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1343)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Downtown
Booked 10 times today
At Operacaffe we are passionate about our culinary business and our customers. The reputation for excellent cuisine, top-notch service, the quality and freshness of ingredients are the reasons we are so proud of our brand new restaurant!
A photo of The US Grant Holiday Celebrations restaurant
4.5
Awesome(37)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Downtown
Join us at our annual Thanksgiving Buffet where you and your family can indulge in traditional Thanksgiving fixings and specialty epicurean dishes created by Executive Chef Mark Kropczynski. Treat yourself to an afternoon complete with live music and a glass of sparkling wine on Thursday November 23rd from 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. $135 per adult, $125 per seniors (60+), and $75 per child, ages 4-12 years old. Prices exclude tax & gratuity and reservations are required.
A photo of Cesarina restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(5456)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Ocean Beach
Booked 156 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 Coasterra restaurant
4.5
Awesome(7534)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Harbor Island
Booked 87 times today
Coasterra is San Diego's premier bay front dining destination! We are an innovative and modern restaurant, lounge and floating event center, featuring Mexican cuisine.
A photo of Lou & Mickey's restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(4114)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Downtown
Booked 40 times today
Located at the gates to the historic Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego, Lou & Mickey’s is a timeless American steakhouse serving prime steaks, including in-house, dry-aged steaks, plus choice seafood, classic cocktails and an award-winning wine list, in a relaxing and inviting environment. Private dining capabilities also available.
A photo of Brigantine at Portside Pier restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(4186)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Downtown
Booked 90 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.
A photo of Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar restaurant
4.5
Awesome(170)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Little Italy
Booked 7 times today
Authentic Baja-style, ceviche, and oyster restaurant. Unique tostadas, oysters, tiradito, clams
A photo of Vincenzo Cucina & Lounge restaurant
4.0
Excellent(217)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 9 times today
Founder and restaurateur, Vincenzo Loverso, invites guests to savor a groundbreaking experience at San Diego’s first ever cheese wheel bar. This unique concept will invite guests to sit at a one of a kind cheese wheel pasta bar (reservation only) in the heart of San Diego.Located on the best corner of Little Italy (India & Date St), step into the modern chic restaurant as the sight and smell of irresistible Italian flavors ignite your senses.

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Discover best worth the drive restaurants in Downtown

Discover the culinary gems of Downtown San Diego that are "worth the drive" for an unforgettable dining experience. Each restaurant featured in this collection offers unique flavors and impeccable service, making them stand out in the vibrant San Diego dining scene. Whether you're craving fresh seafood, authentic Mediterranean dishes, or innovative Japanese cuisine, these establishments promise a meal that more than justifies the journey. With their strategic locations in the heart of Downtown San Diego, they provide not only a feast for the taste buds but also a delightful ambiance that encapsulates the lively spirit of the area. Visitors and locals alike agree that these dining spots enhance any trip to San Diego with their commitment to quality and hospitality. Experience the diverse culinary landscape of Downtown San Diego, where each restaurant offers a distinct and memorable dining adventure.

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