135 Best Southern American Restaurants In Mission Bay

1. Tidal

4.4

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Mission Bay

Booked 12 times today

Nestled in the scenic Mission Bay, San Diego, Tidal Waterfront Restaurant offers an unparalleled Fish cuisine experience. Diners rave about the "best clam chowder and salmon" they've ever tasted, praising the chef's expertise in crafting fresh, flavorful dishes using locally sourced ingredients. With its stunning views from the Tidal Deck, the restaurant not only tantalizes taste buds but also provides a feast for the eyes. Guests consistently commend the "exceptional service" and the memorable dining atmosphere. For those seeking authentic and delectable fish dishes, Tidal stands out as a shining gem in Southern California's seafood scene.

2. Herb & Wood

4.7

Exceptional(6595)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Little Italy

Booked 89 times today

Herb & Wood in San Diego's vibrant Little Italy is a shining example of exquisite American cuisine. Celebrated Chef Brian Malarkey crafts a menu that elevates rustic, wood-fired dishes, blending Mediterranean flair with California's commitment to seasonality and sustainability. Diners rave about the "incredible dinner" experience, showcasing "amazing, flavorful food" and "outstanding service." The ambiance is described as "beautiful" and "welcoming," making every visit memorable. Signature dishes like the pork belly and filet mignon are praised for their exceptional taste. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a night out, Herb & Wood promises a "truly memorable culinary experience."

3. The Fishery

4.8

Exceptional(3139)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Pacific Beach

Booked 57 times today

Nestled just blocks from the ocean in North Pacific Beach, The Fishery offers an authentic American dining experience with a coastal twist. Celebrated for its fresh seafood, this gem has been lauded as "San Diego’s premier restaurant," where each dish is crafted with seasonal and fresh ingredients, ensuring unparalleled taste. With awards such as the prestigious Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator since 2018, The Fishery excels in pairing its exquisite coastal cuisine with impeccable wines. Diners rave about the "best calamari" and "thick and rich clam chowder," making it a must-visit for lovers of true American coastal flavors.

A photo of Red Marlin - Hyatt Regency Mission Bay restaurant

4. Red Marlin - Hyatt Regency Mission Bay

4.0

Excellent(649)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Mission Bay

Booked 8 times today

Choose from a variety of Red Marlin's coastal inspired dishes as you dine with a 360 view of Mission Bay, including breakfast fare in the mornings and an upscale dining experience in the evening. Red Marlin’s menus feature seasonal American cuisine including steak and sustainable seafood entrees.

A photo of Slowly Restaurant & Lounge restaurant

5. Slowly Restaurant & Lounge

4.6

Exceptional(82)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Pacific Beach

Booked 16 times today

Slowly Restaurant & Lounge in the heart of Pacific Beach, San Diego, offers an authentic American dining experience that's truly exceptional. Known for its "outstanding service and food," Slowly has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The menu showcases a delightful array of American classics with a creative twist, such as the highly recommended Yadi’s Signature Chicken and succulent skirt steak. Guests rave about the "delicious food" and "attentive service," making each visit memorable. The restaurant’s cozy ambiance and inviting atmosphere provide the perfect backdrop for savoring fresh, local flavors. Slowly is a must-visit for anyone craving quality American cuisine.

6. Paradisaea

4.7

Exceptional(610)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • La Jolla

Booked 40 times today

Paradisaea in the heart of Bird Rock, La Jolla, offers an unparalleled Contemporary American dining experience that delights with its “creative and delicious” culinary creations. This destination restaurant is celebrated for its “outstanding food and service,” making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Guests rave about the chef’s ability to craft “custom vegan and pescatarian multi-course meals,” showcasing the restaurant's commitment to inclusivity and innovation. With an ambiance that is both “hip and fun,” Paradisaea artfully combines “delicious food and cocktails” with a vibrant atmosphere, ensuring every visit is a memorable culinary adventure. Highly recommended for those seeking modern American cuisine at its finest.

A photo of Oceana Coastal Kitchen restaurant

7. Oceana Coastal Kitchen

4.6

Exceptional(1316)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Pacific Beach

Booked 14 times today

Oceana Coastal Kitchen in Pacific Beach, San Diego, truly exemplifies the essence of top-tier Contemporary American cuisine. Nestled against the stunning backdrop of Mission Bay, this restaurant elevates dining with its exquisite chef-driven California dishes. The ambiance, as noted by patrons, is "a wonderful setting for Sunday brunch or dinner," enriched by live music and mesmerizing ocean views. Their seafood selections, particularly the Alaskan King Crab and Oceana House Roll, captivate the palate with freshness and flavor. As a 2023 TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Best of the Best awardee, Oceana Coastal Kitchen is celebrated for its "delicious food, beautiful view, and amazing service."

A photo of Farmer's Bottega Restaurant restaurant

8. Farmer's Bottega Restaurant

4.8

Exceptional(1637)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Mission Hills

Booked 31 times today

Farmer's Bottega in Mission Hills, San Diego, offers an exquisite French culinary experience that effortlessly combines authenticity with farm-to-table freshness. Diners rave about the "wonderful dining experience," highlighting the chef’s dedication to using locally sourced ingredients that bring the vibrant flavors of French cuisine to life. Whether indulging in the tender duck gnocchi or savoring the perfectly prepared Cacio E Pepe, each dish is a celebration of French culinary artistry. The charming ambiance, complemented by a beautiful outdoor patio, creates the ideal setting for an unforgettable meal. With exceptional service and a menu brimming with delightful options, this restaurant truly stands out as a neighborhood gem.

A photo of Bali Hai Restaurant restaurant

9. Bali Hai Restaurant

4.7

Exceptional(6061)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Shelter Island / San Diego Bay

Booked 41 times today

Bali Hai Restaurant in San Diego is a top-tier destination for Seafood enthusiasts, offering "excellent" and "delicious" dishes with an authentic touch of the Pacific. Set against the stunning backdrop of the San Diego Bay, the restaurant provides not only a feast for the taste buds but also for the eyes. Reviewers rave about the Coconut Shrimp and the Honey Cashew Shrimp, highlighting their exquisite taste and presentation. Guests appreciate the "lovely Poke appetizer" and the "crispy Ahi," which are perfect examples of the restaurant's dedication to quality and authenticity. With a history of over fifty years, Bali Hai continues to impress with its superb Seafood offerings and exceptional service.

A photo of Gravity Heights Mission Valley restaurant

10. Gravity Heights Mission Valley

4.8

Exceptional(240)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Mission Valley

Booked 46 times today

Gravity Heights Mission Valley offers an exceptional Californian cuisine experience that perfectly marries the vibrant San Diego beer scene with a stellar dining experience. Located in the heart of Mission Valley, this spacious brewpub is known for its "delicious food, exceptional service, and genuine hospitality." The expansive outdoor beer garden and inviting ambiance make it a perfect spot to enjoy the Californian flavors that diners rave about. Reviews highlight the "amazing place and food," with standout dishes like the "Golden Mustard Chicken wings" and the "Tikka Masala pot pie." It's a must-visit for anyone looking to savor authentic Californian cuisine.

Best Southern American Restaurants in Mission Bay

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Award-winning

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135 restaurants available nearby

1. Tidal

2. Herb & Wood

3. The Fishery

4. Red Marlin - Hyatt Regency Mission Bay

5. Slowly Restaurant & Lounge

6. Paradisaea

7. Oceana Coastal Kitchen

8. Farmer's Bottega Restaurant

9. Bali Hai Restaurant

10. Gravity Heights Mission Valley

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