Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Cardiff By The Sea
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- $30 and under
- $31 to $50
- $50 and over
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36 restaurants available nearby
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- AAaronSan Diego •4 reviews5.0Dined todayThis is one of the best experiences I have ever had at a restaurant! The coconut shrimp was out of this world and the Wild Isle salmon was phenomenal. The drinks are excellent as well. On top of this our server, I think his name is Sean or John, was attentive and incredibly knowledgeable about all of the food and drink options. More infoPoseidonPrice: Expensive• Seafood• Del Mar•4.8
- SSuzanneVIPPittsburgh / Western PA •33 reviews5.0Dined 1 day agoWe had a lovely anniversary lunch at Jake's, sitting at an ocean front window table. Fabulous view, great service. We shared the fish tacos and the seafood chowder. The kitchen was nice enough to split the orders into two for no extra charge. Our server also gave us the choice of a complimentary dessert for our anniversary. We chose chocolate peanut butter torte to share. It was delicious, but we couldn’t finish it. We had the Hula Pie at Duke’s in Maui, so we chose to try something else. We did have a taste of Hawaii with a very good Duke’s Mai Tai. Will be back if we visit Del Mar again! Also, use Jake's valet parking, which was $8 at lunch. We used the public parking across the street, which was a minimum of $25 for two hours.More infoJake's Del MarPrice: Moderate• American• Del Mar•4.8
- CCharlesCalifornia Central Coast •2 reviews5.0Dined 2 days agoBrilliant food and service. Would go more often if a few more vegi / vegan options. Some great wines but perhaps the pours seems a tad skimpy. Overall a truly great place.More infoWaverly Restaurant & LoungePrice: Expensive• American• Encinitas•4.7
- LLoriNew York City •5 reviews5.0Dined 3 days agoThis years annual birthday dinner for our friend took place on the west coast for 2025–and after a great stay in Temecula we opted for The Pacific Grill. It did not disappoint! From its gorgeous beach location in Cardiff to the excellent and unhurried service we were thrilled to have such a perfect evening to cap off a “girls weekend”. Starting with specialty cocktails and an excellent premium wine list we enjoyed the heat lamp warmed beach patio for our meal. The shrimp dumplings in a port wine sauce were amazing to start with—I want to come back and try the chilled appetizers with my husband and family. We enjoyed coconut crab crusted mahi mahi and the seafood pasta dish—the smoky tomato sauce with Thai basil was very flavorful on the pasta and the seafood cooked to perfection. A beautiful birthday dessert of house bread pudding and vanilla bean ice cream and specialty cappuccino and teas capped off the night.More infoPacific Coast Grill - CardiffPrice: Very Expensive• Seafood• Cardiff By The Sea•4.8
- MMiriamSan Diego •1 review5.0Dined 7 days agoTheir sunset special is not to be missed. Isn't always available so check the website firstMore infoKi's RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Californian• Cardiff By The Sea•4.6
Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Cardiff By The Sea
Discover the charm of neighborhood gems in Cardiff By The Sea, a picturesque part of North San Diego known for its unique culinary offerings. This coastal enclave boasts an array of dining establishments that cater to those looking for a local, intimate dining experience. Each restaurant in this area emphasizes fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, showcasing the best of Californian cuisine with menus that are both innovative and comforting. Patrons can expect not only quality food but also a warm, inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements the scenic backdrop of the ocean and lagoon views. These dining spots are ideal for a casual meal, a romantic date, or a family gathering. The dining scene here is distinguished by its focus on sustainability and community, attracting both locals and visitors who appreciate thoughtful, well-crafted dishes. Overall, Cardiff By The Sea offers an unforgettable culinary journey that reflects its status as a true neighborhood gem in San Diego.