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

Best American Restaurants in San Marcos

Price
Regions
Neighborhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Award-winning
Accessibility

38 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Brickmans Restaurant & Bar (formerly The Grill) restaurant
4.5
Awesome(146)
Price: Moderate
• American • San Marcos
Booked 27 times today
Brickmans epitomizes the essence of a charming golf-side eatery, exuding a laid-back country club ambiance that effortlessly cultivates a sense of camaraderie and relaxation. Serving as a beloved community hub, it seamlessly transitions from the ideal 19th hole for golf enthusiasts to the cozy familiarity of your best friend's living room or the lively charm of your fun uncle's country club. 
A photo of Campfire restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(5258)
Price: Moderate
• American • Carlsbad
Booked 96 times today
Campfire in Carlsbad is the epitome of Contemporary American cuisine, delivering a dynamic and innovative dining experience centered around live-fire cooking. The restaurant’s commitment to market-driven ingredients is evident in every dish, from the wood-grilled specialties to the uniquely crafted cocktails. Customers rave about the "fantastic vibe" and "creative and delicious cuisine," highlighting favorites like the roasted broccoli and the ambiance-enhancing s’mores for dessert. Praised for both its food and atmosphere, Campfire is celebrated as a place where "the wood fire brings a great flavor to everything!" making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic and high-quality American dining experience.
A photo of Vintana Wine & Dine restaurant
4.5
Awesome(8227)
Price: Expensive
• American • Escondido
Booked 62 times today
Vintana Wine & Dine in Escondido offers a fresh and modern approach to American cuisine that shines through its innovative dishes and exceptional service. Nestled atop The Centre at Lexus Escondido, the restaurant boasts breathtaking views, enhancing the dining experience. Patrons rave about the quality of the dishes, with one guest highlighting, "the filet could practically be cut with a fork," underscoring the exceptional preparation and culinary expertise. The ambiance, combined with meticulously crafted dishes like the braised short ribs and Blackened Shrimp Lettuce Wraps, makes Vintana a must-visit destination. As one reviewer put it, "Food was fantastic!... Highly recommend this if you want to impress your date."
A photo of Ember & Rye restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1227)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Carlsbad
Booked 37 times today
Ember & Rye, nestled on the picturesque 18th green of Aviara Golf Club in Carlsbad, is a prime destination for authentic American cuisine. Acclaimed chef and TV personality Richard Blais has crafted a menu that showcases exceptional steaks and fresh seafood, emphasizing high-quality local ingredients. Patrons rave about the "perfectly cooked" dishes and the "outstanding" service, with one guest noting, "the steak and salmon were delicious!" The vintage clubhouse setting offers a splendid view, enhancing the dining experience. Whether it's for a special occasion or a casual meal, Ember & Rye delivers a culinary delight that is both genuine and innovative in its American offerings.
A photo of Haven restaurant
4.2
Awesome(151)
Price: Expensive
• American • Encinitas
Booked 38 times today
At Haven Farm + Table, nestled in the lush hills of Leucadia, Encinitas, the essence of farm-to-table dining is brought to life with unmatched authenticity and innovation. With the farm just steps away from the kitchen, Chef Kelston Moore delights diners with fresh, site-grown produce that stars in every dish. Guests rave about the experience, describing it as "literally heaven" and praising the "beautiful presentation of the freshest food." From the Jerk Pork Belly Mole to craft cocktails and the cherished plantain cake, every element at Haven emphasizes quality and local sourcing. It's a "true slow-food locavore 'haven,'" where you can stroll through the farm rows post-dinner, fully immersing in the farm-to-table ethos that makes Haven a must-visit culinary destination in San Diego.
A photo of Chart House Restaurant - Cardiff restaurant
4.4
Awesome(7198)
Price: Moderate
• American • Solana Beach
Booked 81 times today
At Chart House Restaurant in Cardiff, nestled between Solana Beach and Encinitas, the steak cuisine is not just a meal; it's an experience. Praised for its "perfectly prepared and juicy" prime rib and the "tasty and flavorful" filet mignon and New York strip, Chart House offers a steak experience that truly stands out. One guest raved, "the prime rib was huge and prepared perfectly," highlighting the generous portions and expert cooking that make every bite memorable. Whether it's a special occasion or a casual dinner, the combination of exceptional steaks, stunning ocean views, and impeccable service ensures a dining adventure that is both delightful and satisfying.
A photo of VAGA Restaurant & Bar restaurant
4.5
Awesome(226)
Price: Expensive
• American • Encinitas
Booked 54 times today
VAGA Restaurant & Bar in Encinitas, California, is a culinary gem for steak lovers. Nestled on a scenic coastal bluff, VAGA offers a dining experience where every steak is "cooked to perfection—tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor," as one diner raved. It's not just the food that's impressive; the breathtaking ocean views and impeccable service complete a truly unforgettable meal. Patrons consistently praise the steak, noting its exceptional quality and the creative flair of the accompanying sauces and sides. Whether it’s a special occasion or a casual outing, VAGA's combination of delicious steak, stunning setting, and excellent service makes it a top destination for both locals and visitors alike.
A photo of Black Rail Kitchen + Bar restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(305)
Price: Expensive
• American • Carlsbad
Booked 39 times today
Black Rail Kitchen + Bar in Carlsbad offers an extraordinary Mediterranean dining experience that consistently delights its guests. Executive Chef Moises Hernandez expertly crafts dishes that highlight the rich flavors and authentic essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Reviewers rave about the quality and presentation of the menu items, with one guest exclaiming, "The lamb chops were incredible!" and another noting the "scrumptious" short rib empanadas. The vibrant atmosphere is complemented by live jazz music, adding to the authentic and enjoyable dining ambiance. Guests also commend the excellent service and the thoughtful touches, such as cozy firepits and lap throws on the patio, making each visit memorable. Black Rail Kitchen + Bar is a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic Mediterranean meal in a lively and welcoming setting.
A photo of The Pony Room restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1492)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • Rancho Santa Fe
Booked 51 times today
The Pony Room in Rancho Santa Fe stands as a beacon of American cuisine, offering a stellar array of comfort classics that resonate with authenticity and culinary craftsmanship. Esteemed for its "exceptional experience with both the food and service hitting the mark perfectly," this local gem encapsulates the spirit of Southern California with its hand-crafted, seasonally inspired cocktails and impressive wine list. Diners rave about dishes like the "delicious" fried chicken, hailed as a comfort-style meal, and the seafood Louie salad, described as "just the best." With live music every night and a vibrant atmosphere, The Pony Room is not just a meal, it’s an event, promising an unforgettable dining experience where "the food is always amazing" and the ambiance consistently "beautiful."
A photo of 20|TWENTY restaurant
4.2
Awesome(1160)
Price: Expensive
• American • Carlsbad
Booked 22 times today
20|TWENTY in Carlsbad stands as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, offering a delightful blend of local flair and global inspirations. Helmed by the talented Chef Jason Luke, the restaurant prides itself on its minimalist approach that highlights fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced within a 40-mile radius. Patrons rave about the "perfect blend of manchego cheese, pistachio nuts, and lemon citrus in the kale salad" and the unforgettable brunch experience with "omelets loved by all." The spectacular views of the Pacific coastline enhance every meal, making 20|TWENTY not just a meal, but a memorable dining escapade. Whether it’s the "delicious" frittata or the brunch that keeps guests returning, 20|TWENTY captures the essence of Southern California’s coastal palette in every dish.
‘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
  • Charis
    Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Most amazing birthday meal tonight. The server was so attentive and made sure we all knew how the menu worked and how to have the best experience. The broccoli was the number 1 at our table followed by the chicken dish and the market fish. The s’mores dessert was so fun and delicious as well! Everything 10/10, worth the wait for a reservation.
    More info
    CampfirePrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Carlsbad
    4.8
  • GeorgeVIP
    Las Vegas •117 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    What an amazing Christmas dinner at Vintana Wine and Dine. The hostess was welcoming upon arrival and accommodated my request for a window table. The ambiance was inviting, pleasant and full of Christmas cheer. Savanah came by our table and introduced herself and provided water while wishing us a Merry Christmas. Next we had Chase our phenomenal server who was kind, personable and provided top shelf customer service. We started with two tequilla drinks crafted with lime, pelligrino and mint. The drinks were fabulous. Joshua brought out some sourdough bread and also stopped by through the experience providing excellent service. Our first course arrived with my wife having the beet salad which was exquisite and I had the beyond kabobs which were simply fantastic. After the first course our main entrees arrived and wow the preparation and presentation were stellar. Joshua brought both dishes out and they were beyond amazing. My wife had the Chilean seabass entree and I had the short rib entree. Top Shelf and extremely tasty. The food was so good and epic. What a Christmas blessing. Emma brought out our dessert and she was fantastic as well. My wife had the Tiramasu and I had the pecan cheesecake. Both were beyibd words yummy. Chase also brought out a nice hot cup of coffee. We thoroughly enjoyed our time and meal experience at Vintana Wine & Dine and highly recommend this fine dining establishment.
    More info
    Vintana Wine & DinePrice: Expensive• American• Escondido
    4.5
  • FrankVIP
    Los Angeles •564 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    From start to finish a well run restaurant. The hostess was friendly and our waiter was excellent. The food was exceptional with lots of flavor. It was also a very busy Christmas Eve dinner slot. Thank you! PS. Put some lights in the parking area since there’s no valet because it was very dark walking to the restaurant.
    More info
    Ember & RyePrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Carlsbad
    4.6
  • Michael
    San Diego •19 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Great ambiance and equally good food with very attentive service. Love the small plate menu option along with excellent main dishes.
    More info
    The Pony RoomPrice: Very Expensive• American• Rancho Santa Fe
    4.8
  • Chris and AwiVIP
    San Diego •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Our Christmas dinner at Brickmans Restaurant & Bar was truly delightful! The location itself is charming, but the festive Christmas decorations elevated the ambiance, creating a warm and inviting holiday atmosphere. We opted for the pre-fix dinner, and it was absolutely worth every penny. The meal was not only delicious but also perfectly portioned and shareable, making it ideal for a family gathering. Dining at 5 PM allowed us to enjoy a relaxed and unhurried experience, soaking in the festive vibes. The restaurant is incredibly family-friendly, making it a perfect spot to gather with both friends and loved ones during the holidays. The excellent customer service was the cherry on top—attentive, warm, and professional throughout our meal. Overall, Brickmans Restaurant & Bar provided us with a memorable Christmas dining experience, and we can’t recommend it enough for anyone looking to celebrate in a cozy and welcoming setting.
    More info
    Brickmans Restaurant & Bar (formerly The Grill)Price: Moderate• American• San Marcos
    4.5
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - 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