Best Contemporary American Restaurants in College Area

25 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Smoking Goat Restaurant restaurant

1. The Smoking Goat Restaurant

4.8

Exceptional(2635)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • North Park

Booked 19 times today

At The Smoking Goat in North Park, San Diego, French cuisine is redefined with a Californian touch, earning it the Gold Medallion for the best French Bistro in San Diego for three consecutive years. Executive Chef Fred Piehl, a Le Cordon Bleu Paris alumnus, masterfully blends rustic yet refined French techniques with San Diego's freshest ingredients. Patrons rave about the authentic French flavors with a local twist, describing dishes like the "perfectly cooked duck" and "incredible mussels and duck fat fries" as culinary marvels. The ambiance is consistently praised as "cozy and nice," making The Smoking Goat a must-visit for an authentic and delightful French dining experience.

2. Kettner Exchange

4.7

Exceptional(1337)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Little Italy

Booked 52 times today

Kettner Exchange in Little Italy, San Diego, is a paragon of Contemporary American cuisine, offering a unique dining experience that reflects the very essence of culinary innovation. With its expansive harbor views from the rooftop patio and the culinary prowess of Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski, the restaurant has consistently wowed diners and critics alike, earning a spot on the Michelin Guide's Bib Gourmand list since 2019. Reviews often highlight the inspired menu, such as one diner’s praise for the “magical” way flavors and textures are combined. Another reviewer raves, “UNBELIEVABLE! THE MOST INCREDIBLE DINING EXPERIENCE OF MY LIFE,” underscoring the exceptional quality and creativity on display. Kettner Exchange's commitment to a thrilling gastronomic journey makes it a must-visit for those seeking the best in Contemporary American fare.

A photo of Great Maple San Diego restaurant

3. Great Maple San Diego

4.8

Exceptional(4371)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Hillcrest

Booked 109 times today

Great Maple in San Diego's vibrant Hillcrest neighborhood is celebrated for its exemplary farm-to-table cuisine, crafting a menu that highlights seasonal and local ingredients. Diners rave about the "innovative dishes" and "fresh house-made pies," with special mentions to the "famous maple bacon doughnuts" which are described as an "absolute must-try." The commitment to freshness is palpable, with one reviewer noting, "How do you make veggies that good?" The atmosphere complements the dining experience with its "warm and welcoming ambiance," ensuring every meal is both a delight to the palate and a feast for the senses. Whether it's the "excellent service" or the "social wine list," Great Maple is a beloved destination for those seeking authentic, high-quality farm-to-table dining in San Diego.

4. Cowboy Star

4.9

Exceptional(4730)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown

Booked 43 times today

Cowboy Star in the vibrant heart of Downtown San Diego epitomizes the essence of Contemporary American cuisine with a wild-west twist. Celebrated for its dedication to regional heirloom recipes and superior service, Cowboy Star stands out for its use of local, natural, and organic ingredients, ensuring every dish sings with authenticity and freshness. The menu showcases exceptional dishes, such as the Niman Ranch all-natural beef, earning it rave reviews for the "best steak in SD" and a culinary experience that is both genuine and heartwarming. Diners consistently praise the "excellent vibe" and "impeccable service," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking the pinnacle of Contemporary American dining in San Diego.

5. Coco Maya

4.7

Exceptional(376)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Little Italy

Booked 3 times today

Coco Maya in Little Italy, San Diego, is a delightful revelation in Contemporary American cuisine, offering a creative twist on classic American fare. The restaurant's use of a traditional Spanish-style coal-fired Josper oven brings a unique flavor profile to robust, flavorful proteins, setting it apart in a neighborhood rich with culinary offerings. Reviewers rave about the diverse menu, highlighting dishes like the "delicious" short rib pasta and "amazing" skirt steak. The ambiance, enhanced by sweeping views of Little Italy and a vibrant rooftop setting, is consistently praised. It’s not just the food that receives acclaim; the cocktail program, featuring a diverse mezcal and tequila selection, is also a highlight. Visitors describe their dining experience as “unforgettable,” noting the "fun atmosphere" and exceptional service that make Coco Maya a must-visit spot in San Diego.

A photo of Covewood - Mission Bay Resort restaurant

6. Covewood - Mission Bay Resort

4.2

Awesome(537)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Mission Bay

Booked 4 times today

Covewood at Mission Bay Resort in San Diego is the epitome of exquisite American cuisine, offering a unique California coastal flair that captivates both locals and visitors alike. The restaurant is celebrated for its fresh seafood and wood-grilled vegetables, perfectly paired with local wines and innovative cocktails. Diners rave about the "bold" flavors, such as the anchovy-enhanced Caesar salad and perfectly cooked burgers, stating that every dish is "exceptional" and "worth every penny." The ambiance, described as "barefoot-chic," complements the high-quality service provided by staff members like Jorge and Juan, who are frequently praised for their attentiveness. Covewood is not just a meal; it’s a "wonderful" dining experience that leaves guests planning their next visit before they've even departed.

A photo of Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar restaurant

7. Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar

4.7

Exceptional(1299)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Mission Hills

Booked 9 times today

Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar, nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Mission Hills, San Diego, is celebrated for its exceptional Steak cuisine, particularly the Slow Roast Prime Rib available every Friday night. Diners consistently rave about the quality and flavor of their steaks, describing them as "cooked to perfection" and a highlight of their dining experience. The restaurant's dedication to quality is evident in the glowing reviews, with one patron noting, "The prime rib was amazing!" Additionally, the ambiance, from its cozy patio seating to its friendly service, enhances the culinary journey, making Harley Gray a must-visit for steak lovers seeking a memorable meal in San Diego.

8. Topside Terrace

4.3

Awesome(385)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Downtown

Booked 3 times today

Topside Terrace, nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown San Diego, is a celebrated destination for those seeking the finest in Contemporary American cuisine. This open-air terrace blends the essence of coastal living with the urban charm of San Diego, offering a delightful array of Baja California and classic American fare. Guests rave about the "incredible rooftop brunch experience" and the "delicious wagyu slider and beet salad," highlighting the quality and creativity of the dishes. With glowing reviews like "delicious food, efficient service, live music and awesome San Diego weather, you can't go wrong," it's clear that Topside Terrace provides not just a meal, but a spectacular dining experience. Whether you're enjoying a lively evening under the heaters or a sunny brunch with live chill music, Topside Terrace promises a memorable culinary journey.

9. Tavern

4.5

Awesome(758)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Coronado

Booked 24 times today

Tavern, nestled in the charming neighborhood of Coronado, excels in offering an exceptional Comfort Food experience that locals and visitors alike rave about. Known for its cozy ambiance reminiscent of an old Irish pub, Tavern delivers dishes that are both heartwarming and mouthwatering. Patrons particularly praise the "delicious Cavatappi Mac & Cheese with bacon on top" and the "tender, perfectly cooked pork belly tostadas." The service is consistently noted as friendly and attentive, with reviews often highlighting the excellent staff. Whether it's the "amazing churros with hot chocolate dip" or the creatively crafted cocktails, Tavern ensures a memorable dining experience that keeps guests returning for more.

A photo of Bluewater Boathouse Seafood Grill restaurant

10. Bluewater Boathouse Seafood Grill

4.5

Awesome(1411)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Coronado

Booked 59 times today

At Bluewater Boathouse Seafood Grill in Coronado, a seafood experience awaits that is as authentic as it is delightful. Nestled in a historic, picturesque setting by Glorietta Bay, diners rave about the "best swordfish EVER" and the "amazing" seared scallops appetizers. The menu is celebrated for its variety and freshness, with guests frequently complimenting dishes like the miso sea bass that "melted in your mouth" and the rich, flavorful clam chowder paired with fresh sourdough. The ambiance, coupled with "excellent service," creates a perfect backdrop for enjoying top-tier seafood. Whether it's a casual meal or a special occasion, Bluewater Boathouse promises a memorable dining experience with every visit.

‘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

B
Brettvip
Atlanta Metro •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
I love this place. Best cocktails in carlsbad and amazing bar tenders and management staff. If you like expresso martinis then you have to try theirs. Could be the best ever and I have had my fair share ❤️❤️🙏🙏
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CampfirePrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Carlsbad
•
4.7
A
Alison
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
We love Great Maple for brunch, but this was our first time going for dinner. It was amazing! The holiday decor made for such a fun ambiance after seeing The Grinch in Balboa Park. Food was delicious. Holidays cocktails were jolly. I highly recommend and can’t wait to go back!
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Great Maple San DiegoPrice: Moderate• American• Hillcrest
•
4.8
A
Annevip
California Central Coast •6 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Such a great experience, as always. Book in advance because it gets booked up quickly. We have dined in San Diego location many times and have experienced the Colorado Springs location as well. This is by far our favorite steakhouse in San Diego- and we have done them all!
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Cowboy StarPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Downtown
•
4.9
V
Vincentvip
Washington, D.C. Area •71 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Incredible! We started with the sushi-grade Hot Oil Seated Salmon and the Whipped Buttermilk Ricotta with charred bread for dipping. We also had the Roasted Chinese Eggplant sitting on lemon yogurt and pine nuts that had the appearance of sushi and the taste of beautifully seasoned eggplant. We also had the juicy cheeseburger special which had perfect fries.
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Kettner ExchangePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
•
4.7
A
Anabel
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined on Nov 21, 2024
There was a heating lamp above us that kept me cozy. We had a great time.
More info
Coco MayaPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
•
4.7

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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in College Area

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25 restaurants available nearby

1. The Smoking Goat Restaurant

2. Kettner Exchange

3. Great Maple San Diego

4. Cowboy Star

5. Coco Maya

6. Covewood - Mission Bay Resort

7. Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar

8. Topside Terrace

9. Tavern

10. Bluewater Boathouse Seafood Grill

See what locals rave about

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