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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in La Mesa

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35 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Limoncello La Mesa restaurant
4.5
Awesome(288)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • North Park
Booked 16 times today
Welcome to Limoncello, your go-to destination for authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of La Mesa. At Limoncello, we pride ourselves on delivering a true taste of Italy with our carefully curated menu inspired by traditional family recipes passed down through generations. Our dishes showcase the rich flavors of Italy, crafted using only the finest and freshest ingredients sourced locally and from Italy. From classic pasta dishes to mouthwatering pizzas and delectable desserts, each plate is a celebration of Italian culinary heritage. Come savor the warmth and hospitality of Italy right here in La Mesa at Limoncello, where every meal is a journey to the heart of Italian flavors.
A photo of Farmer's Table - La Mesa restaurant
4.3
Awesome(2001)
Price: Moderate
• Farm-to-table • La Mesa
Booked 12 times today
Excited to announce that we officially have four locations open in San Diego including Bay Park, Little Italy, La Mesa, and Chula Vista. As a family run operation we believe every good neighborhood deserves an eatery where locals and visitors can enjoy “honest food done right”. Here at Farmers Table, we specialize in farm-to-fork cuisine that focuses on bringing locally sourced organic ingredients together to be savored in an inviting family-friendly atmosphere, where adults and children can enjoy many different food options that are just right for them. If you are looking for a magical brunch this week, come stop by for an unforgettable night.
A photo of Antica Trattoria restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2379)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary Italian • La Mesa
Booked 10 times today
Antica Trattoria is a warm restaurant with an old-fashioned sense of hospitality that quickly became a gathering place for dinners in Lake Murray and the rest of San Diego when it opened in 2001. For Executive Chef and Owner Francesco Basile, good cuisine is about honest flavors, fresh ingredients, and simplicity. That's the kind of food he grew up eating by the seaside in Sicily and it's what he learned in culinary school in Italy.Why eat ordinary when you can eat extraordinary?About reservations: We have a 15-minute grace period. Please call us if you will be running later than 15 minutes. If a later time slot is available, you may be able to switch your reservation.We may contact you, so please ensure your email and phone number are up to date. Your table will be reserved for 1 hour 30 minutes for parties of up to 4 guests; 2 hours for parties of 5 to 8 guests; and 2 hours 30 minutes for parties of 9+. We cannot guarantee special request for tables.
A photo of Giardino Neighborhood Cucina restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(1058)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Lemon Grove
Booked 13 times today
Located in the middle of Lemon Grove’s charming downtown area, Giardino is a welcoming and casual Italian inspired cucina where the neighborhood gathers for fresh and flavorful classic dishes found throughout Italy.Giardino offers an Italian-inspired menu of seasonally-driven dishes that use timeless Italian techniques and fresh ingredients. Guests will find items such as fresh seafood, pastas, pizzas and salads, as well as a variety of elements made in-house.
A photo of Lemon Grove Bistro restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(82)
Price: Moderate
• American • Lemon Grove
Booked 2 times today
In addition to offering comforting American favorites, our menu provides a selection of flavors inspired by our chef’s culinary experiences, ranging from classic Spanish fare to Italian favorites. Our menu changes seasonally to feature the freshest ingredients and provide an exciting dining experience throughout the year.The Lemon Grove Bistro is in a historic mission-style building in the heart of Lemon Grove. Since 1912, it’s been a place where locals meet and build connections, whether they were picking up their mail at the Sonka General Store in 1944 or ordering custom cakes at the Grove Pastry Shop in 2012. Come for the food. Stay to experience the inviting ambiance of the historic building and its new garden. Let’s build community--together.
A photo of Black Angus Steakhouse - El Cajon restaurant
4.3
Awesome(2119)
Price: Moderate
• Steakhouse • El Cajon / Lakeside
Booked 25 times today
WE’VE BEEN MASTERING OUR CRAFT SINCE 1964, so you could say we know a thing or two. Our cuts are aged at least 21 days, seasoned to excellence, expertly flame-grilled and served up just the way you like it. You’ve earned it. Whether you’re here to throw back a couple with old friends or trying to finish off the High Noon Feast on your own, there’s always a seat for you. So here’s to the nights you can’t remember and the steaks you won’t forget.
A photo of Louisiana Purchase SD restaurant
4.5
Awesome(656)
Price: Expensive
• Creole / Cajun / Southern • North Park
Booked 34 times today
Conveniently set on Louisiana Street in North Park, our design of this intimate cocktail restaurant was inspired by the charm &; character of New Orleans, with creative touches of personal effects giving guests the feeling of warmth, community & fun Architect Jeff Svitak helped create a modern interpretation of a classic French Quarter restaurant, introducing elements of wood, marble &; rich velvet. Our lush patio seating flows seamlessly into our indoor dining space, a nod to the courtyards found across the beautiful southern city.Our rotating food menu will be dedicated to only the best seasonal ingredients, featuring big &; bold flavors from the region. Executive Chef Quinnton Austin recently relocated to San Diego from New Orleans, bringing with him an exciting wealth of knowledge &; experience in the culinary melting pot that defines southern cuisineAlligator Cheesecake, Andouille Fried Red Beans & Rice w/Chipotle Mousse, &
A photo of Great Maple San Diego restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(4369)
Price: Moderate
• American • Hillcrest
Booked 44 times today
Great Maple in San Diego is totally worth the drive. It's a modern American eatery with outstanding food and service, as the reviews rave. With their high-end diner ambiance and unique menu, customers love the fresh house made pies and local produce cocktails. The restaurant is also known for its great atmosphere and consistently top-notch food and service. So, if you're in the area, you definitely should stop by!
A photo of Brigantine at Portside Pier restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(4181)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Downtown
Booked 54 times today
The Brigantine is more than just home to some of San Diego’s finest seafood. It’s a place where locals and visitors alike come to share a lively atmosphere and authentic sense of community. The Morton family opened the first Brigantine on Shelter Island in 1969, with a vision that embraced the beach town lifestyle, a dedication to flavorful food, and a passion for friendly service. Today, we’re known far and wide for our San Diego-style surf and turf. From our award-winning fish tacos and freshly shucked oysters, to classic filet mignon or our perpetually best-selling marinated grilled swordfish. Always prepared to exceed expectations, and served with a smile. You can stop in at any neighborhood Brigantine and get a taste of the local flavor, from regionally inspired specials, to custom cocktails and home town craft beers. At the Brigantine we make first timers feel like regulars, and consider regulars part of the family. So come by often, and share our taste for life.
A photo of Gravity Heights Mission Valley restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(192)
Price: Moderate
• American • Mission Valley
Booked 7 times today
We’re not out to take the San Diego beer scene by storm or reinvent the wheel because the truth is, there’s no shortage of good breweries in San Diego. Instead, our aim is to pair that good beer with the same delicious food, exceptional service and genuine hospitality we’re known for so you never have to compromise one for the other again. Situated in Mission Valley, our 9,000 square foot brewpub includes a full service restaurant, an expansive and lush outdoor beer garden, and a pretty stellar team to make sure you always have good food in your mouth and a solid beer in your hand.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • OpenTable Dinervip
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We enjoyed a fun dinner at Duke’s. Great service, beautiful view. Hula Pie never dissapoints.
    More info
    Duke's La JollaPrice: Moderate• Hawaii Regional Cuisine• La Jolla
    4.6
  • Martyvip
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    If you’re looking for a spot with a lively New Orleans vibe and flavorful dishes, this restaurant hits the mark. The menu was packed with tasty options, and everything we tried was well-prepared and delicious. The atmosphere was warm and vibrant, capturing that Southern charm perfectly. However, the Cognac Espresso Martini was a bit of a letdown. I’d suggest sticking with their other beverage offerings or pairing your meal with a classic cocktail or wine instead. Overall, it’s a great spot for a flavorful meal and a fun experience, but I’d pass on the espresso martini.
    More info
    Louisiana Purchase SDPrice: Expensive• Creole / Cajun / Southern• North Park
    4.5
  • Johnvip
    San Diego •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Got reservations for seats at the bar. There is a tasting menu, as well as a separate bar menu, mostly small plates. Cocktails from menu are twists on classic cocktails, and they were truly extraordinary, as well as the off menu cocktails we ordered, and we've sampled some of the best. Food sampled at bar: Crudo, Tartare, Pain et Beurre, and Gougere. All were phenomenal. Service at bar was very attentive and knowledgable, they know what they're doing, and they do it well. Cool vibe and music playing from reel to reel player in bar. Very open, busy kitchen with frequent calls from cooks, "Oui, chef!" Great for foodies and cocktail nerds. Pricey, some may not appreciate the value.
    More info
    Jeune et JoliePrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary French• Carlsbad
    4.9
  • Lynnvip
    Grand Rapids / Western Michigan •54 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    We were greeted nicely. I fell down on the way to the restaurant and hurt my finger. The restaurant staff offered me a bandaid and some cream. They also checked on me during our meal! That’s an excellent compliment to them! Thank you so much!
    More info
    Great Maple San DiegoPrice: Moderate• American• Hillcrest
    4.8
  • Deborah A
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Excellent food, reasonably priced, and homey vibe. Jazz music made the experience even better.
    More info
    Lemon Grove BistroPrice: Moderate• American• Lemon Grove
    4.9

Discover best worth the drive restaurants in La Mesa

Discover a selection of delightful dining experiences in La Mesa, East County San Diego, where each restaurant offers something uniquely "worth the drive." Whether you're in the mood for robust Italian flavors or authentic Mexican cuisine, the local dining scene in La Mesa caters to a variety of palates with restaurants that emphasize quality, authenticity, and a memorable atmosphere. These establishments not only serve excellent food but also provide a warm, inviting environment, complemented by attentive service that makes each meal special. The dining scene here is characterized by its commitment to authenticity and a fusion of both local and international culinary traditions, ensuring that every dish is not only delicious but also a true representation of its roots. This area is a hidden gem for food lovers seeking places that go beyond the ordinary, making each dining out experience truly exceptional. Whether it's the carefully crafted dishes or the cozy ambiances, these restaurants promise to deliver a dining experience that is definitely worth the drive.

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