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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Carmel Valley

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12 restaurants available nearby

A photo of South of Nick's - Del Mar restaurant
1. South of Nick's - Del Mar
4.7
Exceptional(616)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Del Mar
Booked 84 times today
South of Nick's in Del Mar, San Diego, is a gem for those seeking authentic American cuisine with a Southern California twist. Renowned for its seamless blend of classic Mexican flavors with prime steaks and seafood, this restaurant promises an unforgettable dining experience. Patrons rave about the "delicious food and wonderful service," with dishes like the steak salad and seafood enchiladas receiving high praise. The ambiance is consistently described as great, with a "beautiful decor" that complements the high-quality meals. Whether it's the complimentary chips and salsa, the finely crafted margaritas, or the attentive service, South of Nick's stands out as a top choice for both locals and visitors. It's no wonder guests are eager to return, making it a "new favorite" in the vibrant San Diego dining scene.
A photo of Sbicca - Del Mar restaurant
2. Sbicca - Del Mar
4.6
Exceptional(2515)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Del Mar
Booked 5 times today
Nestled in the charming locale of Del Mar, Sbicca is a gem that epitomizes the essence of Contemporary American cuisine. Praised as San Diego's favorite "Neighborhood" restaurant, Sbicca has been honored with the "Gold Medallion Award" for Best Neighborhood Restaurant. Patrons can savor their meals on an ocean view deck, enhancing the dining experience with breathtaking views of the Pacific. The menu boasts an array of delectable options, from the divine truffle fries to the exquisite buttermilk fried chicken, consistently earning glowing reviews like "The best food that we've had in a long time." Sbicca's commitment to quality and its vibrant atmosphere make it a standout destination for authentic Contemporary American fare, ensuring a memorable dining experience with every visit.
A photo of West End Bar & Kitchen restaurant
3. West End Bar & Kitchen
4.7
Exceptional(982)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Del Mar
Booked 10 times today
West End Bar & Kitchen in Del Mar is a haven for those seeking authentic American cuisine with a contemporary twist. Situated across from the stunning lagoon at Torrey Pines State Reserve, this restaurant offers a true 'melting pot' of flavors that embody the spirit of American dining. Guests rave about the "best values" and "large portions" that never fail to impress, such as the "fantastic" Halibut special and the "best clam chowder" many have ever had. The blend of casual professionalism and a scenic view provides a perfect backdrop for enjoying their extensive selection of handcrafted cocktails and local craft beers. With its consistent praise for great food and service, West End is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience top-notch American fare.
A photo of Ocean View Bar & Grill Restaurant in Hotel Indigo Del Mar restaurant
4. Ocean View Bar & Grill Restaurant in Hotel Indigo Del Mar
3.7
Very Good(25)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Del Mar
Booked 1 time today
At the Ocean View Bar & Grill in Hotel Indigo Del Mar, every bite and sip offers an authentic taste of American cuisine with a stunning ocean backdrop. Known for its "excellent service and great food," this delightful spot in Del Mar captures the essence of coastal dining with dishes like herb crusted pork chop and mahi mahi fish tacos. Guests rave about the "amazing food" and "friendly service," emphasizing dishes like the spicey Ahi Tuna sandwich and the perfectly cooked Brussels sprouts with pancetta. With live music adding to the ambiance and reviews celebrating the "great views and fantastic service," Ocean View Bar & Grill stands out as a must-visit for genuine American dining. Enjoy a meal here and "you'll dig it the most!" as one enthusiastic diner put it.
A photo of Pacifica Del Mar restaurant
5. Pacifica Del Mar
4.5
Awesome(4851)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Del Mar
Booked 27 times today
Nestled in the picturesque Del Mar Plaza, Pacifica Del Mar shines as a beacon of exceptional seafood dining. Diners rave about the "tremendous taste and texture" of dishes like the celebrated Halibut and the Spanish Octopus on Squid Ink Risotto. The freshness and quality of the seafood are consistently highlighted, with one guest recommending, "Try the Halibut. It's delicious!" The restaurant's ambiance enhances the dining experience, offering stunning ocean views that complement the "extraordinary food." With accolades for both its vibrant atmosphere and impeccable service, Pacifica Del Mar stands out as a must-visit destination for seafood lovers in Del Mar.
A photo of Waverly Restaurant & Lounge restaurant
6. Waverly Restaurant & Lounge
4.7
Exceptional(108)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Encinitas
Booked 62 times today
Nestled in the charming Cardiff by The Sea in Encinitas, Waverly Restaurant & Lounge is a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine. It offers a progressive menu infused with a European twist that tantalizes the palate with dishes like the divine burrata "donuts" and adventurous bone marrow paired with beef tartare. The rave reviews emphasize the quality and creativity of the menu. One guest exclaimed, "The duck meatball was flavorful and moist," illustrating the unique culinary delights that await at Waverly. With its chic Tulum-inspired decor and a vibrant atmosphere, Waverly stands out as a must-visit destination for those seeking an exceptional dining experience with a contemporary American flair.
A photo of Paradisaea restaurant
7. Paradisaea
4.7
Exceptional(568)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • La Jolla
Booked 26 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 Beaumont's restaurant
8. Beaumont's
4.6
Exceptional(917)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • La Jolla
Booked 10 times today
Beaumont's, nestled in the vibrant Bird Rock neighborhood of La Jolla, San Diego, epitomizes the essence of Contemporary American cuisine with its innovative menu and lively atmosphere. Since 2005, it has been the "heart and soul of Bird Rock," offering not only a fantastic dinner menu but also an engaging environment with live local music and top-notch service. Patrons rave about the unique dishes, such as the "delicious Sweet Heat Brussels sprouts" and the "outstanding" filet with barbacoa demi. One diner exclaimed, "The food was SO good! I got the crabcake benedict & it was one of the best breakfasts I’ve ever had." Beaumont's commitment to quality and community makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the best of Contemporary American dining.
A photo of Bazille - Nordstrom University Town Center restaurant
9. Bazille - Nordstrom University Town Center
4.7
Exceptional(188)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • La Jolla
Booked 2 times today
This full-service restaurant with a casually sophisticated atmosphere features bistro cuisine and a full bar. Enjoy fresh salads, specialty entrées, signature cocktails, a wine list and housemade desserts.Nordstrom is located along Genesee Avenue, between La Jolla Village Drive and Nobel Drive. Bazille is located on the 2nd floor, overlooking the main courtyard of the newly expanded UTC. We offer a full bar with wine, beer & hand crafted cocktails, as well as open patio dining. We are open for dine-in service, covered, heated outdoor patio dining and to-go orders with Curbside Pickup. Call (858) 812-3582 to place your order.Join us for Brunch on weekends;July 4th hours: 11am-5pm
A photo of James' Place restaurant
10. James' Place
4.0
Excellent(1074)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • La Jolla
Booked 1 time today
James' Place in La Jolla, San Diego, is a beacon of culinary excellence, particularly praised for its Asian fusion offerings that leave guests both delighted and impressed. Diners frequently rave about the "amazing sauce and perfectly cooked shishito peppers," and the "delicious protein sushi roll," highlighting the authenticity and quality of each dish. The restaurant's ambiance, paired with its proximity to the La Jolla Playhouse, makes it a favorite spot for a pre-theater dinner, where the experience is described as nothing short of "outstanding." Guests like to mention that the "service is top-notch," and the menu variety, from crispy rice to glazed salmon, consistently receives high marks for both presentation and flavor. James' Place truly stands out as a must-visit for an exquisite dining experience in San Diego.
‘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.

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