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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Little Italy

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32 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Kettner Exchange restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1409)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Little Italy
Booked 53 times today
Kettner Exchange in Little Italy, San Diego, offers an exceptional Asian fusion experience that is both inventive and authentic. Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski’s creations have earned the restaurant a coveted spot on the Michelin Guide's Bib Gourmand list since 2019, showcasing high-quality meals at accessible prices. Diners rave about the "spicy garlic noodles" and "juicy cheeseburger special," underscoring the delightful fusion of flavors. The rooftop patio with stunning harbor views enhances the dining ambiance, making it perfect for any occasion. Guests frequently praise the "stellar service" and "amazing cocktails," solidifying Kettner Exchange as a must-visit destination for Asian cuisine enthusiasts.
A photo of Coco Maya restaurant
4.4
Awesome(391)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Little Italy
Booked 5 times today
Coco Maya in Little Italy, San Diego, is a vibrant cocktail bar that elevates your dining experience with "excellent drinks and ambience." Renowned for its diverse mezcal and tequila selection, this bar seamlessly blends tropical and rum-based cocktails, a hallmark that traces back to its roots at Miss B's Coconut Club. Guests rave about the "perfectly crafted espresso martini," which stands out among their expertly curated beverages. The lively rooftop setting, often accompanied by a DJ, adds a fun and energetic vibe that enhances the entire experience. If you're seeking a memorable cocktail adventure, Coco Maya promises to deliver!
A photo of Petrini's restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(439)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Little Italy
Booked 5 times today
Petrini's in San Diego's vibrant Little Italy effortlessly brings authentic American cuisine to life with their exceptional dishes. While known for its Italian roots, the restaurant's dedication to quality and authenticity shines through its American offerings. Diners rave about the "excellent food," with dishes that are "just like homemade," ensuring a genuine American experience. Patrons are drawn not only for the delightful meals but also for the "great atmosphere" and "superb service," making it a beloved neighborhood gem. Whether you’re stopping by for brunch, lunch, or dinner, Petrini's promises a memorable American dining experience that keeps guests coming back.
A photo of Topside Terrace restaurant
3.9
Excellent(392)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 1 time today
Topside Terrace is a vibrant gem in downtown San Diego, offering an unforgettable taste of authentic Californian cuisine. With an open-air terrace that perfectly captures the coastal spirit, the restaurant delights diners with its "incredible rooftop brunch experience" featuring dishes like Carne asada chilaquiles and Crab Benedict. The menu seamlessly blends Baja California and Classic American fare, all beautifully plated and complemented by contemporary cocktails. Guests rave about the "great food" and "attentive staff," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking genuine Californian flavors. Live music and happy hour specials further enhance this lively venue, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
A photo of Cowboy Star restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(4838)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 56 times today
Cowboy Star in downtown San Diego is a gem of Contemporary American cuisine, capturing the essence of regional American heirloom recipes with a modern twist. Their commitment to using locally sourced, natural, and organic ingredients shines through every dish, offering "exceptional quality" that diners rave about. Known for their impeccable service and warm atmosphere, Cowboy Star is celebrated for its perfectly cooked steaks, with one reviewer exclaiming, "the best steakhouse in San Diego, PERIOD." The diverse menu, which includes top-notch wine and cocktails, ensures that every visit is a "memorable and enjoyable experience," making Cowboy Star a must-visit for any steak lover.
A photo of Rustic Root - Gaslamp restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1346)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 42 times today
Rustic Root showcases our take on New American Comfort food with a California twist. Classic dishes are rooted in tradition, including regional dishes from around the country. All reimagined with fresh and local ingredients and our Chef’s modern flair. Our Signature drink menus offer our take on timeless classic cocktails as well as Rustic Root originals using creative spirits and the freshest ingredients. Join us in our street-level dining room for dinner nightly or our award-winning weekend brunch. Our rooftop lounge is an excellent place to grab drinks & a bite with friends, enjoying the San Diego weather and our unique location in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter. Close to the San Diego Convention Center, we're a favorite for locals and out of town tourists alike.
A photo of Great Maple San Diego restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(4454)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Hillcrest
Booked 46 times today
Great Maple San Diego, nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Hillcrest, is a beacon of excellence in Contemporary American cuisine. This modern eatery is celebrated for its "outstanding" food and "exceptional" service, making it a favorite destination for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Diners rave about the delightful maple bacon donuts and "delectable" brisket hash, highlighting the creative use of fresh, local ingredients. Reviewers consistently praise the "huge portions" and "fantastic flavors," ensuring no one leaves hungry. With its inviting atmosphere and "friendly" staff, Great Maple offers a truly authentic and memorable dining experience that captures the essence of Contemporary American cuisine.
A photo of The Smoking Goat Restaurant restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2682)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • North Park
Booked 20 times today
The Smoking Goat Restaurant in North Park, San Diego, delivers an exceptional Contemporary French / American experience that has garnered rave reviews and awards, including the Gold Medallion for the best French Bistro in San Diego three years running. Executive Chef Fred Piehl's masterful blend of classic French techniques with the fresh, sustainable bounty of San Diego offers a "rustic, yet refined" culinary journey. Diners have lauded dishes such as the "perfectly cooked" duck l'orange and the "delicious" prime rib, each beautifully presented. With an attentive staff and a well-curated selection of wines and craft cocktails, The Smoking Goat promises a memorable dining experience.
A photo of Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1329)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Mission Hills
Booked 7 times today
Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar in Mission Hills, San Diego, is a seafood lover’s paradise, celebrated for its "Live Maine Lobster" nights that consistently delight diners. With an emphasis on quality and authenticity, their seafood offerings are praised for being "perfectly cooked" and "delicious." The restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere, combined with "exceptional service" from a friendly and professional staff, ensures a memorable dining experience. Their commitment to crafting incredible dishes, like the lobster, makes Harley Gray stand out in the seafood scene. If you’re seeking fresh, expertly prepared seafood in a warm neighborhood setting, Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar is a must-visit!
A photo of Grant Grill restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1646)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 14 times today
Grant Grill, nestled in the heart of Downtown San Diego, masterfully delivers an unparalleled Contemporary American dining experience. Celebrated for its "world-class" food and "outstanding service," this iconic restaurant has been a beacon of culinary excellence since 1951. The menu, reflecting the best of seasonal ingredients, offers a fresh approach to American classics, ensuring every dish is a standout. Diners rave about the "superb" seabass and "divine" pork chop, while the elegant ambiance and attentive service create a perfect setting for any occasion. Whether enjoying a leisurely brunch or an exquisite dinner, Grant Grill promises an unforgettable experience, redefining Contemporary American cuisine.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Mitchell
    Atlanta •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Incredible dining experience. Incredible flavors and service. Highly recommend.
    More info
    Kettner ExchangePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
    4.7
  • Matt
    New York City •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Food was fantastic and our server was very attentive. Highly recommended the Brussels, Cornbread, Filet, and Jambalaya. Beer list was on point as well.
    More info
    Rustic Root - GaslampPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown
    4.5
  • Scott
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    The Diablo Shrimp and the Chicken Wings are a must for appetizers, the shrimps are big about 5-6, and they come with 4 peaces of cheese bread, they are not spicy to my taste, the Chicken Wings are super crunchy but tender and the same time, the sauce is a sweet but spicy, after the 3rd wing you get the kick of the spicy sauce, they come 8-9 wings, definitely try them!!
    More info
    Petrini'sPrice: Moderate• Italian• Little Italy
    4.6
  • Shyla
    Las Vegas •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Great vibes and decor, and a breakfast burger that makes you want to come back for more! Chilaquiles were a flop but the restaurant manager took care of me right away, and was very kind. The orange you glad zero proof drink needs the ratio tweaked between the syrup and the bubbly water. Too much syrup made for a diabolically sweet drink. Overall, the wait staff, atmosphere and the burger will have me coming back, I recommend!
    More info
    Topside TerracePrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Downtown
    3.9
  • Francisco
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    It was fantastic Just need more food , the lobster tacos were fabulous however, I was expecting them to be paired with a side. I definitely miss your coconut muscles plate, but the drunken muscles that we had there on Valentine’s Day. were still excellent.
    More info
    Coco MayaPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
    4.4

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Little Italy

Discover the vibrant flavors of Contemporary American cuisine in the heart of San Diego's Little Italy. This area, known for its rich culinary diversity, offers a unique scene where innovative American cooking meets the bustling ambiance of one of the city's most charming neighborhoods. The restaurants here are celebrated for their creative use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, emphasizing seasonality and regional quality. Each dining spot in Little Italy provides a distinctive experience, from expertly crafted dishes that blend traditional techniques with modern twists to elegantly casual settings perfect for any occasion. Patrons can expect top-notch service and a knowledgeable staff that enhances the dining experience with their expertise and passion for food. Whether you're a local foodie or a visitor looking to indulge in San Diego's dining scene, Little Italy's Contemporary American restaurants offer a memorable culinary journey that consistently earns high praise from diners. Embrace the opportunity to explore this dynamic dining landscape, where each meal is not just eaten but experienced.

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