Best Authentic Restaurants in San Diego, CA

14 places

Explore San Diego's vibrant dining scene, where authentic flavors and unique atmospheres come together to create memorable culinary experiences.

Mona Lisa Italian Foods

Mona Lisa Italian Foods

Open until

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4.0

Authentic deli vibes capture the essence of Italian culture, with their famous sub sandwiches perfect for a quick, delicious meal on-the-go.

CLAMS CASINO Venus CLAMS, BACON, PARMESAN BELL PEPPER, ONION, GARLIC, PANKO $26

Ironside Fish & Oyster

Opens at

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4.0

Memorable for its vibrant atmosphere, Ironside Fish & Oyster offers fresh seafood platters that perfectly complement a leisurely stroll in Little Italy.

The Fishery photo

The Fishery

Opens at

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4.0

Remarkable for its use of freshly caught local fish, The Fishery captures San Diego's rich marine flavors in a charming Pacific Beach setting.

The flan was a great end to the meal

Kingfisher

Opens at

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4.5

Unexpected flavors abound at Kingfisher, where flavorful Vietnamese dishes and innovative cocktails create an intimate dining experience.

Soichi photo

Soichi

Opens at

Exquisite flavors shine through each omakase dish at Soichi, where traditional techniques meet modern artistry in a Michelin-rated experience.

LOGO

Catania

Opens at

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4.5

Inviting ambiance combines a Michelin-listed status with stunning ocean views and authentic wood-fired pizza, creating a special dining experience.

Cesarina photo

Cesarina

Opens at

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4.5

Delicious homemade pasta shines at Cesarina, especially the funghi fusilli, earning praise from MICHELIN in the heart of Point Loma.

Chilaquiles

Morning Glory

Open until

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4.0

Charming brunch spot known for its Instagram-worthy dishes, Morning Glory shines with its MICHELIN recommendation and vibrant Little Italy vibe.

Fort Oak photo

Fort Oak

Opens at

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4.0

Specializing in upscale dining, Fort Oak impresses with its MICHELIN recognition, masterful cocktails, and creative shareable small plates.

Chicken - great idea but the sauce was way too salty

Born & Raised

Opens at

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4.0

Exceptional atmosphere and a MICHELIN recommendation make Born & Raised a standout choice for a perfect steak night in San Diego.

Mussels escabeche

Mabel's Gone Fishing

Opens at

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4.5

Savoring creative seafood dishes with fresh local ingredients and unique gin cocktails made Mabel's Gone Fishing a standout in North Park.

Ocean Terrace (3rd Floor)

Georges at the Cove

Opens at

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4.0

Breathtaking ocean views enhance every meal at George’s, a beloved eatery serving fresh seafood that captures the essence of La Jolla.

Photo by Management

Juniper and Ivy

Opens at

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4.5

Innovative flavors and a visually stunning setting in a transformed warehouse make Juniper and Ivy a must-visit culinary gem in San Diego.

Great Maple Dinette photo

Great Maple Dinette

Opens at

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4.0

Holistic in its approach, Great Maple combines comfort food with a Michelin recognition, making breakfast feel both familiar and refined.