Best Southern American Restaurants in Mission Bay

133 restaurants available nearby

1. Herb & Wood

4.7

Exceptional(6464)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Little Italy

Booked 67 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.

2. The Fishery

4.7

Exceptional(3061)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Pacific Beach

Booked 40 times today

Nestled just blocks from the ocean in North Pacific Beach, San Diego, The Fishery epitomizes exceptional Californian cuisine with its dedication to fresh, local ingredients. Celebrated for its coastal-inspired menu, the restaurant has earned accolades such as the Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence from 2018 to the present. Patrons consistently rave about the quality and creativity of the dishes. One diner exclaimed, "Best Seafood in San Diego. All the food items were well made, tasty and delicious." With its focus on seasonality and a superb wine list that complements the vibrant flavors of each dish, The Fishery offers an authentic taste of California's rich coastal bounty in a setting that's as welcoming as it is picturesque.

3. Tidal

4.5

Awesome(1149)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Mission Bay

Booked 9 times today

At Tidal in Mission Bay, San Diego, guests are treated to a quintessential Southern California dining experience, showcasing the finest in American cuisine. With its commitment to locally sourced ingredients and a menu that highlights the best of American seafood, Tidal has become a beloved destination. Diners rave about the "best clam chowder and salmon I’ve had in a very long time" and celebrate the perfectly cooked lamb chops and steak. The restaurant's setting on the bay offers "stunning views" that complement the high-quality meals. Reviewers consistently praise the "first-class service" and recommend Tidal for a memorable dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone in search of authentic and exceptional American fare.

A photo of Slowly Restaurant & Lounge restaurant

4. Slowly Restaurant & Lounge

4.7

Exceptional(54)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Pacific Beach

Booked 15 times today

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Pacific Beach, San Diego, Slowly Restaurant & Lounge offers an exceptional Mediterranean culinary experience that's as authentic as it is innovative. Patrons rave about the "amazing" in-house creations, from the perfectly fried branzino with crispy skin to the richly flavored broccolini paired with whipped feta and harissa sauce. Guests are consistently impressed by the fresh, high-quality ingredients and the creative twists on Mediterranean classics. The atmosphere is described as "chic yet warm," making it the perfect spot for both a casual meal and a sophisticated evening out. With glowing reviews highlighting both the food and the ambiance, Slowly stands out as a Mediterranean gem in San Diego's culinary scene.

A photo of Bali Hai Restaurant restaurant

5. Bali Hai Restaurant

4.6

Exceptional(5989)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Shelter Island / San Diego Bay

Booked 49 times today

Experience the essence of Hawaiian cuisine at Bali Hai Restaurant, a culinary gem nestled on Shelter Island in San Diego Bay. Celebrating over fifty years of tradition, Bali Hai is renowned for its authentic and exotic Pacific dining. Patrons rave about the stunning bay views and the "out of this world" Salmon Wellington, elevating every dining experience into a special event. With glowing reviews like "the best mai tai’s in the business" and "wonderful view, beautiful service, and amazing food and drink," it's clear that Bali Hai captures the spirit of Hawaii. Whether it’s the extensive Sunday brunch buffet featuring seafood delights or the unique tiki drinks, every visit promises a delightful escape to the islands, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists seeking a taste of Hawaii in San Diego.

6. Paradisaea

4.7

Exceptional(563)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • La Jolla

Booked 11 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.

7. Draft

3.9

Excellent(124)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Mission Bay

Booked 16 times today

Nestled directly on the Mission Beach boardwalk in San Diego, Draft Restaurant epitomizes the quintessential Gastro Pub experience with its remarkable selection of 69 beers on tap and innovative, handcrafted fare by Executive Chef Luis Romero. Patrons rave about the "fantastic service" and the unique ability to enjoy "brews and views" in a vibrant atmosphere. Highlights include the "giant soft pretzel" and the praised giant mozzarella stick, making it a culinary adventure right by the surf and sand. A consistent favorite for locals and tourists, Draft offers "incredible" food and a prime spot for "people watching" and soaking in stunning oceanfront sunsets. This spot is a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-notch Gastro Pub experience in Mission Bay.

A photo of Oceana Coastal Kitchen restaurant

8. Oceana Coastal Kitchen

4.4

Awesome(1300)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Pacific Beach

Booked 2 times today

Oceana Coastal Kitchen in Pacific Beach, San Diego, guarantees an unparalleled seafood experience that has diners raving, "Absolutely love this restaurant" and praising dishes like "super fresh seafood!" and the "amazing" seafood tower. Nestled in an iconic Pacific Beach hideaway, this gem offers a stunning bayfront dining ambiance with an impressive 800-gallon aquarium and sweeping panoramic views of Mission Bay. The menu, curated by Executive Chef Paul Arias, includes highlights like the Striped Seabass and the Oceana House Roll, which have helped earn the restaurant the prestigious 2023 Traveler’s Choice Best of the Best award from TripAdvisor. Whether you're enjoying a sunny al fresco meal or a cozy dinner, Oceana Coastal Kitchen is the epitome of high-quality, authentic seafood cuisine.

9. The Presley

4.5

Awesome(1218)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Point Loma

The Presley is a dynamic outdoor restaurant located in Liberty Station. A great place to gather, The Presley features classic American fare, local seafood, and unique shareable options, as well as an extensive cocktail list that includes frozen drinks, a dole whip mimosa and more! You can always take advantage of the beautiful San Diego weather on our expansive patios complete with lush greenery, fire pits and swinging benches.As we are a mostly outdoor restaurant, keep the following notes in mind: We do have heaters placed around the restaurant but dress warm for chilly evenings. In the case of a last minute closure for inclement weather, we will contact you via phone to let you know and to help you reschedule.

A photo of Gravity Heights Mission Valley restaurant

10. Gravity Heights Mission Valley

4.7

Exceptional(207)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Mission Valley

Booked 22 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.

‘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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Best Southern American Restaurants in Mission Bay

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133 restaurants available nearby

1. Herb & Wood

2. The Fishery

3. Tidal

4. Slowly Restaurant & Lounge

5. Bali Hai Restaurant

6. Paradisaea

7. Draft

8. Oceana Coastal Kitchen

9. The Presley

10. Gravity Heights Mission Valley

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