Skip to main content

Home
United States
San Diego

Best Contemporary American Restaurants in South Park

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Regions

San Diego

Neighborhoods

Bay ParkChula Vista / BonitaCoronadoDowntownHarbor IslandHillcrest

Top Rated

CharmingDog-friendlyFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasions

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Gender-neutral restroomWheelchair access

30 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Kettner Exchange restaurant

1. Kettner Exchange

4.7

Exceptional(1409)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Little Italy

Booked 51 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 The Smoking Goat Restaurant restaurant

2. The Smoking Goat Restaurant

4.7

Exceptional(2682)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • North Park

Booked 17 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.

3. Cowboy Star

4.8

Exceptional(4837)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown

Booked 51 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 Great Maple San Diego restaurant

4. Great Maple San Diego

4.8

Exceptional(4454)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Hillcrest

Booked 45 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 Rustic Root - Gaslamp restaurant

5. Rustic Root - Gaslamp

4.5

Awesome(1345)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown

Booked 40 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 Coco Maya restaurant

6. Coco Maya

4.4

Awesome(391)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Little Italy

Booked 6 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 Topside Terrace restaurant

7. Topside Terrace

3.9

Excellent(391)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Downtown

Booked 3 times 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 Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar restaurant

8. Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar

4.6

Exceptional(1327)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Mission Hills

Booked 3 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

9. Grant Grill

4.6

Exceptional(1646)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown

Booked 21 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.

A photo of Greystone Prime Steakhouse & Seafood restaurant

10. Greystone Prime Steakhouse & Seafood

3.7

Very Good(2344)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown

Booked 15 times today

Greystone Prime Steakhouse & Seafood in Downtown, San Diego, is a beacon for seafood aficionados seeking top-tier quality and authenticity. Renowned for its fresh and expertly prepared dishes, diners frequently rave about their seafood options. One delighted guest exclaimed, "The oysters were super fresh and delicious," while another praised the perfectly cooked Chilean Sea Bass as "a must try!" The restaurant's commitment to sourcing the finest seafood ensures an unforgettable dining experience that captivates the palate. Greystone's dedication to excellence, combined with its elegant ambiance and outstanding service, makes it a standout choice for seafood lovers in San Diego.

1
2
3

‘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

M
Mitchell
Atlanta •6 reviews
5.0
Dined today
Incredible dining experience. Incredible flavors and service. Highly recommend.
More info
Kettner ExchangePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
•
4.7
M
Matt
New York City •1 review
5.0
Dined today
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
A
Amanda
San Diego •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Solid breakfast spot; super friendly service. The maple donuts are soooooo good. My boyfriend said their Bloody Mary was just ok.
More info
Great Maple San DiegoPrice: Moderate• American• Hillcrest
•
4.8
F
Francisco
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 3 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
H
Hannah
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
My boyfriend and I came for an early Valentine’s Day dinner and we got a sangria and Old fashioneds which were great!!The food was AMAZING. The Parker house rolls, the mussels, the steaks 🤌🏼 The only negative thing I have to say is that because we had a later reservation (10:00) we felt pretty rushed to order our food, thus feeling rushed to leave. It didn’t negatively affect our experience too much because the food was so bomb but definitely expected a higher level of service (minus the bussers and food runners who were friendly and great).
More info
Cowboy StarPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Downtown
•
4.8

Explore OpenTable

Neighborhood
Cuisine Nearby
Contemporary american Cuisine

South Park

Contemporary american

Del Mar
Rincon
Kensington
Mission Hills
Scripps Ranch
Rancho Santa Fe
Encanto
Bay Park
Banker's Hill
Little Italy
Lemon Grove
Mira Mesa
Harbor Island
University Heights
Mission Valley
Carlsbad
Linda Vista
Sorrento Valley
Chula Vista / Bonita
Pacific Beach

Discover

Dining Rewards
Private Dining
Reserve for Others
Restaurants Near Me
Restaurants Open Now

OpenTable

About Us
Blog
Careers
Press

More

OpenTable for iOS
OpenTable for Android
Affiliate Program
Contact Us

Our sites

OpenTable.com
OpenTable.jp
OpenTable.de
OpenTable.es
OpenTable.ca
OpenTable.hk
OpenTable.ie
OpenTable.sg
OpenTable.nl
OpenTable.com.mx
OpenTable.co.uk
OpenTable.com.au
OpenTable.ae
OpenTable.it
OpenTable.com.tw
OpenTable.fr

Businesses

Delight more diners

Join us on

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.