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Best Fun Restaurants in Downtown

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243 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Lumi restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(680)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Downtown
Booked 23 times today
Featuring world-renowned celebrity chef Akira Back, Lumi is an energetic and upscale rooftop experience serving innovative Japanese fare and sushi accompanied by handcrafted libations in a vividly unique atmosphere.
A photo of AKA San Diego restaurant
3.3
Good(34)
Price: Expensive
• Asian • Downtown
Booked 9 times today
Located in the bustling heart of Gaslamp, San Diego, AKA is more than just a restaurant. It’s a destination where exceptional food, craft cocktails, and an energetic nightlife converge. With a menu curated by renowned Chef Takuya Kudo, AKA offers a captivating fusion of Chinese, Japanese, and Thai culinary traditions, all crafted with fresh ingredients and innovative techniques. The venue features a vibrant atmosphere complemented by artisanal craft cocktails from mixologist Gerardo Bedolla and striking design by Cassandra Builer. AKA welcomes guests to indulge in its exquisite dishes while enjoying electrifying entertainment. Committed to transforming the dining and nightlife scene in San Diego, AKA offers a unique and unforgettable experience for everyone looking to savor gourmet cuisine, sip on craft cocktails, and dance the night away.
A photo of Cowboy Star restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(4723)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Downtown
Booked 39 times today
Located in the heart of the East Village neighborhood of San Diego, Cowboy Star is dedicated to providing an unmatched attention to detail and a level of service that immediately sets us apart. Cowboy Star guests are the number one priority and guest satisfaction is the base upon which our entire concept is built. Our level of service is only matched by our celebration of regional American heirloom recipes offered with genuine neighborly hospitality. We are committed to supporting local and regional farmers, fishers and producers by cooking food that recaptures the simple and pure tastes found in locally grown, natural and organic ingredients. We strive to raise awareness of a more sustainable food future, while helping to restore a sense of community that brings us back to a more homegrown time.The Cowboy Star Menu features the finest in select natural products including Niman Ranch all natural beef from the nation's leading Certified Humane Angus herd.
A photo of Huntress restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(783)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Downtown
Booked 26 times today
Huntress is the most adventurous and energetic modern steakhouse in downtown San Diego, offering the finest cuts of meat, one of the largest collections of Japanese whisky brands in California, and a contemporary, lively atmosphere where music elevates every dish.
A photo of STK- San Diego restaurant
4.3
Awesome(3312)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Downtown
Booked 31 times today
STK Steakhouse is “not your daddy’s steakhouse,” offering a high-energy dining experience that artfully combines the superior quality of a traditional steakhouse with a Vibe Dining atmosphere unlike any other. Delectable cuisine, upscale cocktails and an elevated Happy Hour, along with an in-house DJ and chic décor, all come together to offer a memorable fine dining experience that keeps guests enjoying their evening from drinks to dinner to late night. STK’s menu features reimagined classic American cuisine for lunch, brunch and dinner with unique local flair infused into each location’s menu. The brand’s beef program focuses on the highest quality, delicious and craveable steaks while emphasizing transparency and traceable sourcing practices.
A photo of Saint James French Diner restaurant
4.5
Awesome(223)
Price: Expensive
• French American • Downtown
Booked 15 times today
This American diner meets elegant French bistro is open Monday–Friday for Breakfast and Lunch, every day for Dinner and Happy Hour, and on the weekends for Brunch. With a full bar and an approachable menu, locals and travelers can indulge in a variety of French-inspired classics, from shared mussels to ratatouille and burgers.
A photo of Zama Restaurant & Bar restaurant
4.0
Excellent(281)
Price: Expensive
• Sushi • Downtown
Booked 11 times today
Located in San Diego’s vibrant downtown, Zama brings Latin American cuisine with an Asian infusion in a captivating space inspired by the Amazonian jungle. Zama will focus on Latin American cuisine with the addition of Peruvian and Mexican dishes like Carpaccio, Agua Chile and Tartar and a Japanese-inspired sushi bar created by Chef Tayuka Kudo (formerly of Nobu and Lumi) against the extravagant backdrop of the lush jungle-inspired space.
A photo of Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(949)
Price: Expensive
• American • Downtown
Booked 35 times today
Provisional Restaurant is a fun place to be, according to reviews. The ambiance is described as 'amazing,' 'wonderful,' and 'outstanding.' It offers 'fabulous' service and 'stellar' service. Plus, the food is 'amazing,' 'delightful,' and 'immaculate.' You can expect a 'surprising' menu, 'good food,' and a 'bit unexpected' brunch. It's also described as a 'trendy' and 'Instagramish' place. All in all, Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego is a fun place to enjoy good food, service, and ambiance.
A photo of The Melting Pot - Gaslamp Quarter restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2573)
Price: Very Expensive
• Fondue • Downtown
Booked 26 times today
Welcome to The Melting Pot San Diego Gaslamp. Located on 5th Ave & E St in the historic Gaslamp Plaza Suites, the San Diego - Gaslamp Melting Pot Restaurant brings a truly unique, romantic and interactive four-course fondue dining experience to San Diego's vibrant downtown dining scene!
A photo of Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge restaurant
4.5
Awesome(620)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary Italian • Downtown
Booked 7 times today
Located in the heart of Downtown San Diego near the marina district, Salvatore's inspired by the elegant minimalist details of nature. Salvatores is walking distance from the San Diego convention center and downtown hotel/resort district. The kitchen draws influence from the shores of the Mediterranean and Italy, while creating a visionary express of flavorful and modern California Mediterranean cuisine. Salvatores San Diego embodies a multi-sensory culinary sanctuary for our guests to escape, disconnect and have a great time. EUDAIMONIA' the contended, happy state you feel when you travel.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Barryvip
    San Francisco Bay Area •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Great service and seating around the chef counter was a bonus. You can see all the cooking action right in front of you. The wagyu carpaccio was the highlight of the night. It just melts in your mouth. The organic pear salad was also great for sharing. However the aged duck breast and the dry-aged bone in ribeye had some tendons and chewy parts that is unable to swallow.
    More info
    Cowboy StarPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Downtown
    4.9
  • Jim
    Portland / Oregon •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Impeccable service and amazing food made for a special evening. The atmosphere was festive and fun. The decor was modern and delightful to the eye. Highly recommend!
    More info
    STK- San DiegoPrice: Expensive• Steakhouse• Downtown
    4.3
  • Katie
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    First timer and thought it was not only a fun atmosphere but great food & great service. The bar area is a great place to have a casual dinner & some delicious drinks. Next time I’ll try out the dining area for more of an intimate experience. 10/10 recommend!
    More info
    AKA San DiegoPrice: Expensive• Asian• Downtown
    3.3
  • Jonvip
    Atlanta Metro •18 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Incredible place w great unique food and creative fresh cocktails. One of my favorite places on the West coast. Servers are very helpful explaining the drinks and dishes. Highly recommend for any occasion.
    More info
    LumiPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Downtown
    4.6
  • Griselvip
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    I have been here twice and it has been a great experience each time. Our server James was awesome on both occasions. The food there is great whether it be an appetizer for your main course.  No disappointments here.
    More info
    HuntressPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Downtown
    4.6

Discover best fun restaurants in Downtown

Dive into the vibrant dining scene of Downtown San Diego where the keyword "fun" takes center stage at a variety of restaurants that promise an exciting and enjoyable dining experience. Each establishment in this bustling area offers a unique blend of ambiance, exceptional cuisine, and top-notch service, making them perfect spots for both casual outings and special occasions. From the thrilling Brazilian churrasco at a renowned steakhouse to the innovative Japanese dishes at a sophisticated locale, these restaurants cater to a diverse palette and are praised for their lively atmospheres and culinary excellence. Whether you're in the mood for a meal with stunning views of San Diego's skyline or a cozy dinner with live music, Downtown San Diego has an array of options that embody the essence of fun dining. Enjoy the local and international flavors, all while soaking in the unique atmospheres that make each restaurant a beloved destination in San Diego’s dynamic culinary landscape. Celebrate life’s moments with delicious food, great company, and the unforgettable charm of San Diego’s downtown eateries.

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