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Best Californian Restaurants in Pacific Beach

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58 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Firehouse American Eatery and Lounge restaurant
1. Firehouse American Eatery and Lounge
4.6
Exceptional(193)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Pacific Beach
Booked 3 times today
Firehouse American Eatery and Lounge in Pacific Beach, San Diego, epitomizes the essence of Californian cuisine with a delightful ocean view that complements its vibrant atmosphere. This beachside gem is renowned for its eclectic American dishes, craft cocktails, and an iconic patio that features a signature fire pit and private cabanas. Diners rave about the "best French Toast" and "delicious calamari," highlighting the quality and authenticity of its offerings. With glowing reviews like "the service is amazing!" and the "best food decision we could make," Firehouse not only promises but delivers a quintessential Californian dining experience. Whether it's brunch by the ocean or a late-night gathering, this spot is a must-visit for anyone seeking the true flavor of California.
A photo of World Famous restaurant
2. World Famous
4.6
Exceptional(996)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Pacific Beach
Booked 34 times today
At World Famous in Pacific Beach, San Diego, steak enthusiasts can revel in a dining experience that celebrates the best of surfside ambiance and top-quality cuisine. Specializing in "grilled to order steaks," this restaurant is a carnivore's delight, ensuring each steak is seared to perfection, embracing the essence of Southern California's culinary spirit. Diners consistently praise not only the ambiance and views but the standout steak dishes. One review exclaims, "Enjoyed the prime rib and fries! The view was amazing!", highlighting the memorable combination of delicious food and scenic dining. Whether you're a local or visiting, World Famous's commitment to excellence makes it a must-visit for authentic and delectable steak meals.
A photo of Paradisaea restaurant
3. Paradisaea
4.7
Exceptional(558)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • La Jolla
Booked 16 times today
Nestled in the historic Piano Building in the heart of La Jolla's vibrant Bird Rock community, Paradisaea epitomizes the essence of Californian cuisine with its commitment to quality, flavor, and local sourcing. Celebrated for its "crave-able, accessible fare executed at the highest level," this destination restaurant has become a local favorite, with diners praising its "amazing food and service" and the "extraordinary" chef's tasting menu. The ambiance, described as both "vibrant" and "soothing," complements the meticulously prepared dishes, from the fresh oysters to the flavorful steak au poivre, each "beautifully presented and delicious." Paradisaea's dedication to the Californian tradition of fresh, innovative dining is evident, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a truly remarkable meal in La Jolla.
A photo of The Whaling Bar restaurant
4. The Whaling Bar
4.5
Awesome(64)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • La Jolla
Booked 18 times today
Rediscover the charm of Mediterranean dining at The Whaling Bar in La Jolla, San Diego, a delightful spot that serves up not just meals but experiences. Patrons rave about the "absolutely delicious" Lobster Roll and the "inventive" Twinkie Caesar salad, showing how the menu creatively plays with Mediterranean staples. Each dish, from the "creamy and flavorful" polenta to the "perfectly cooked" Urfa Chicken, is a testament to the skill of Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski, whose expertise adds authenticity and flair to every meal. The glowing reviews continually highlight the "exceptional" food and the vibrant ambiance, making The Whaling Bar a must-visit for anyone craving a true Mediterranean feast in a cozy, yet elegant setting.
A photo of NINE-TEN restaurant
5. NINE-TEN
4.7
Exceptional(2923)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • La Jolla
Booked 20 times today
Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of La Jolla, San Diego, NINE-TEN stands out as a beacon of farm-to-table excellence. Under the helm of nationally-recognized chef Jason Knibb, the restaurant has earned a MICHELIN distinction for its commitment to locally-sourced, seasonally-inspired cuisine. Diners rave about the exceptional quality of dishes such as the "best duck breast I’ve ever had" and praise the innovative "Mercy of the Chef" tasting menu. With ingredients carefully selected daily from local artisans, NINE-TEN not only promises but delivers a dining experience that is both authentic and sublime. Whether you're enjoying a meal on their cozy terrace with ocean views or indulging in the warmth of their elegant indoor setting, NINE-TEN is a true gem in farm-to-table dining.
A photo of Dockside 1953 restaurant
6. Dockside 1953
4.5
Awesome(594)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Mission Beach
Booked 16 times today
At Dockside 1953 in Mission Beach, San Diego, the culinary experience of steak cuisine is taken to new heights. Celebrated for its high-quality dishes and stunning waterfront views, Dockside 1953 consistently impresses with its perfectly seasoned and cooked steaks. A recent diner ecstatically remarked, "I can’t remember the last time I’ve had a better ribeye steak. It was cooked perfectly and seasoned to perfection." This testament to the steak's quality underscores the restaurant's commitment to excellence. Whether it's a sunset dinner or a special celebration, Dockside 1953 offers a perfect blend of memorable flavors and serene marina views, making it a must-visit for steak lovers.
A photo of The Fishery restaurant
7. The Fishery
4.7
Exceptional(3051)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Pacific Beach
Booked 48 times today
Nestled just blocks from the ocean in North Pacific Beach, San Diego, The Fishery epitomizes exceptional Californian cuisine with its dedication to fresh, local ingredients. Celebrated for its coastal-inspired menu, the restaurant has earned accolades such as the Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence from 2018 to the present. Patrons consistently rave about the quality and creativity of the dishes. One diner exclaimed, "Best Seafood in San Diego. All the food items were well made, tasty and delicious." With its focus on seasonality and a superb wine list that complements the vibrant flavors of each dish, The Fishery offers an authentic taste of California's rich coastal bounty in a setting that's as welcoming as it is picturesque.
A photo of Brockton Villa restaurant
8. Brockton Villa
4.5
Awesome(2773)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • La Jolla
Booked 21 times today
Brockton Villa, nestled in the picturesque La Jolla, San Diego, offers an unmatched American dining experience. Renowned for its iconic "Coast Toast," which has been dubbed "the best French toast ever," this historic seaside home turned restaurant captures the essence of American cuisine with a creative twist. Patrons rave about the quality of the food and the authenticity of dishes like breakfast tacos and seafood linguine, complemented by breathtaking ocean views. One diner praised, "The food and service were absolutely amazing!!! Incredible views as well!" Brockton Villa isn't just about food; it's about creating unforgettable experiences, whether it's a casual brunch or a special celebration. This gem truly stands out with its combination of culinary excellence and stunning location.
A photo of The Marine Room restaurant
9. The Marine Room
4.7
Exceptional(8174)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • La Jolla
Booked 43 times today
The Marine Room in La Jolla, known for its iconic "Seahorse" symbol, epitomizes the essence of Californian cuisine with its commitment to coastal flavors and locally-sourced ingredients. Nestled directly on the surf, diners rave about the "spectacular ocean views" and the "impeccable service" that enhance the dining experience. Celebrated for its high tide dinners, The Marine Room consistently impresses with dishes like the locally acclaimed Filet and Caesar. A gem in San Diego, it's not just a meal but an "unforgettable experience" as noted by a diner, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic and innovative Californian fare.
A photo of Sea & Sky restaurant
10. Sea & Sky
4.3
Awesome(209)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • La Jolla
Booked 9 times today
Indulge in the pinnacle of seafood dining at Sea & Sky in La Jolla, San Diego. Nestled atop Hotel La Jolla, this penthouse restaurant offers not only breathtaking ocean views but also a culinary journey with its fresh, coastal California dishes that have diners raving. Guests consistently praise the "flavor bombs" oysters and the scallops described as "amazingggg!" The dedication to quality is evident, as one diner noted, "the best snapper I’ve ever had" highlighting the chef's expertise in crafting seafood masterpieces. The ambiance, enhanced by live jazz and impeccable service, makes Sea & Sky a must-visit for an unforgettable seafood experience.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Dr. Billvip
    San Diego •237 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Great food & yummy cocktails once again, only neg is new auto 5%,”Service Charge” on top of their already high prices, not allowing customers to TIP their gift or present or bonus $$$ to servers/helpers. Owners trying to force & “squeeze” their own customers to pay more to them besides food & bev prices is a not smart action. Cheap, a TURN-OFF, low-class, aggressive, no bueno.
    More info
    ParadisaeaPrice: Very Expensive• Californian• La Jolla
    •
    4.7
  • Allanvip
    Los Angeles •48 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    On our last night in Pacific Beach, the four of us dined at World Famous. All four of us thoughly enjoyed our separate entrees. If you're going to be in this area we highly recommend having lunch or dinner at World Famous.
    More info
    World FamousPrice: Moderate• Californian• Pacific Beach
    •
    4.6
  • laura
    Phoenix / Arizona •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Zero complaints and adored both apps (sashimi and pork belly) and entrees (bass and scallops) sooo much!!!
    More info
    NINE-TENPrice: Expensive• Californian• La Jolla
    •
    4.7
  • Hamiltonvip
    San Diego •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 22, 2024
    Man, I noticed a few bad reviews for this place but we totally disagree. This is a cool, smaller restaurant attached to the Hotel Valencia. It has a nice u-shaped bar with what seemed to be mostly locals hanging out talking with the staff. Upscale vibe but not "stuffy" La Jolla vibe. The cocktails were amazing and fairly creative. We also thought the food was excellent, contrary to what a few other folks have said. The braised short rib Mao, crispy pumpkin squash, and twinkie ceaser were the standouts. Only minor downsides were that you can smell the seals a little bit and it was a bit chilly inside, as the door was kept open. Overall we really enjoyed our experience.
    More info
    The Whaling BarPrice: Expensive• Californian• La Jolla
    •
    4.5
  • Rob
    Calgary / Southern Alberta •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Sep 9, 2024
    The food was amazing, and the service was great. Visited Firehouse 21 next door to get a few T-shirts as well. Great location. We will be back during our next trip to San Diego
    More info
    Firehouse American Eatery and LoungePrice: Moderate• American• Pacific Beach
    •
    4.6

Discover best Californian restaurants in Pacific Beach

Discover the vibrant culinary scene of Californian cuisine in Pacific Beach, San Diego, a hotspot that caters to a variety of tastes and dining preferences. Restaurants in this area excel in offering fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that reflect the region's abundant produce and seafood, ensuring an authentic Californian dining experience. Whether you're in the mood for sophisticated seafood dishes, modern Californian-Mexican flavors, or classic Southern California Coastal cuisine, Pacific Beach has something to delight every palate. These establishments pride themselves on their commitment to quality and freshness, often highlighted by seasonal menus that showcase the best local farms and fisheries have to offer. The dining ambiance in Pacific Beach ranges from casual and fun to refined and intimate, making it perfect for any occasion, from a casual lunch to a celebratory dinner. Pacific Beach's restaurant scene truly embodies the laid-back yet vibrant spirit of San Diego, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers. Each restaurant not only offers a unique dining experience but also contributes to the area's reputation as a top culinary destination in California, celebrated for its innovative and flavorful dishes. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the Californian cuisine in Pacific Beach promises an exceptional and satisfying dining experience.

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