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Best Southwest American Restaurants in University Heights

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179 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Kairoa Brewing Company restaurant
1. Kairoa Brewing Company
4.5
Awesome(103)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • University Heights
Kairoa Brewing Company, nestled in the vibrant University Heights neighborhood of San Diego, is a true gem for brewery enthusiasts. This establishment stands out not only for its unique New Zealand-inspired cuisine but for its exceptional array of crafted beers that capture the essence of both the Kiwi spirit and Southern Californian flair. Patrons rave about the quality and variety of the brews, with remarks like "Great craft brewery with excellent bartender staff" and "Quite impressed with their beers, all tasty and quite a variety of styles." Additionally, the rooftop bar offers a splendid view of the San Diego skyline, making Kairoa not just a place to eat and drink, but a full sensory experience. Whether it's the Garston Gold IPA or the crisp Pilsner, Kairoa Brewing Company delivers authentic brewery flavors that are both refreshing and memorable.
A photo of Great Maple San Diego restaurant
2. Great Maple San Diego
4.8
Exceptional(4371)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Hillcrest
Booked 101 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.
A photo of Puesto Mission Valley restaurant
3. Puesto Mission Valley
4.6
Exceptional(1982)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Mission Valley
Booked 53 times today
Puesto Mission Valley in San Diego epitomizes the essence of authentic, innovative Mexican cuisine, delighting diners with its fresh, non-GMO organic ingredients and heirloom Masienda blue corn tortillas. Celebrated for its "Mexico City-inspired tacos," each dish is a burst of flavor and tradition, with "the filet mignon tacos" often hailed as a must-try. The restaurant prides itself on its vibrant ambiance and exceptional service, making every dining experience memorable. Guests rave about the "amazing food and service," noting that the coconut margarita and pozole taco are standout choices. Puesto consistently exceeds expectations, offering a culinary journey that is both genuine and extraordinary, right in the heart of Mission Valley.
A photo of Ironside Fish & Oyster restaurant
4. Ironside Fish & Oyster
4.4
Awesome(4534)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Little Italy
Booked 100 times today
Nestled in the heart of San Diego's vibrant Little Italy, Ironside Fish & Oyster is a gem for seafood enthusiasts. Celebrated for its dedication to the freshest and highest quality seafood, this restaurant has transformed a historic auction house into a bustling seafood haven with an expansive raw bar and open-air culinary hubs. Patrons rave about their "10/10 plump oysters" and assert that the "fish and chips may be the best in San Diego." Not to be missed are their lobster rolls, described as "the best thing I ever had!" With its cool vibe and exceptional service, Ironside Fish & Oyster offers an unforgettable dining experience right by the docks where the city's fishing legacy continues to thrive.
A photo of Coasterra restaurant
5. Coasterra
4.5
Awesome(7537)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Harbor Island
Booked 97 times today
Coasterra stands out as a crown jewel of Seafood cuisine in San Diego, particularly celebrated for its fresh, innovative Mexican flavors right on the waterfront of Harbor Island. Patrons rave about the "spectacular view of the San Diego skyline" while indulging in dishes like the "Blood Orange Scallop Aguachile" and "Ancho Chili Roasted Salmon" which are just a few highlights of their diverse seafood offerings. As one diner exclaims, the seafood is "incredibly fresh and wonderful in flavor," ensuring each meal is an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a local or just visiting, Coasterra offers not only a meal but an experience, complete with "impeccable service" and a setting that makes every dining occasion special.
A photo of Herb & Wood restaurant
6. Herb & Wood
4.7
Exceptional(6441)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Little Italy
Booked 49 times today
Herb & Wood in Little Italy, San Diego, epitomizes the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with a delightful twist of Californian flair. Celebrated Chef Brian Malarkey crafts a menu that transforms simple ingredients into a symphony of flavors, all centered around a wood-fired concept that accentuates each dish's rustic, authentic taste. Reviewers consistently praise the restaurant's vibrant atmosphere and innovative dishes, with one guest exclaiming, "The bone marrow and oyster dish was especially impressive!" and another noting the "swordfish was very fresh and tasty." Herb & Wood not only offers a feast for the taste buds but also a Mediterranean dining experience that is both heartfelt and memorable, making it a culinary jewel in San Diego.
A photo of Gravity Heights Mission Valley restaurant
7. Gravity Heights Mission Valley
4.7
Exceptional(192)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Mission Valley
Booked 41 times today
Gravity Heights Mission Valley in San Diego is a gem in the American cuisine scene, celebrated for pairing quality craft beers with sublime gastronomic offerings. Located in the heart of Mission Valley, this establishment stands out not just for its fine brews but also for its commitment to top-notch American dishes that receive glowing praise. Patrons frequently highlight the "delicious food" and "exceptional service," noting dishes like the chicken tikka masala pot pie as "outstanding." The ambiance, described as a "refreshingly open and light" space, perfectly complements the culinary experience, making Gravity Heights a must-visit for an authentic and enjoyable American dining adventure.
A photo of Louisiana Purchase SD restaurant
8. Louisiana Purchase SD
4.5
Awesome(659)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • North Park
Booked 65 times today
At Louisiana Purchase SD in North Park, San Diego, you're treated not just to a meal but a vibrant Southern experience true to its roots. Designed to embody the spirit of New Orleans, the restaurant offers an authentic Southern cuisine crafted by Executive Chef Quinnton Austin, who brings a treasure trove of culinary expertise straight from New Orleans. Patrons rave about the unique and flavorful dishes such as the "incredible gumbo" and "delicious catfish," not to mention the innovative Alligator Cheesecake. Reviews consistently highlight not just the food but also the atmosphere, describing it as a place where "everything was amazing" and urging others to "definitely try a potion or two." With such passionate endorsements and a commitment to seasonal, bold flavors, Louisiana Purchase SD is a must-visit for anyone craving a genuine taste of the South.
A photo of Kettner Exchange restaurant
9. Kettner Exchange
4.7
Exceptional(1337)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Little Italy
Booked 51 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 Cowboy Star restaurant
10. Cowboy Star
4.9
Exceptional(4730)
Price: Very Expensive
• Mexican • 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.
‘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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