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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in University Heights

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50 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Herb & Wood restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(6477)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Little Italy
Booked 121 times today
A timeless, sought-after dining escape, celebrated Chef Brian Malarkey opened Herb & Wood to instant acclaim over four years ago. In that time, the restaurant has become an icon, a dining destination that has helped to propel San Diego's culinary reputation to new heights. By focusing on rustic, wood-fired dishes, Chef Malarkey's menu elevates humble ingredients such as carrots, beets, and chicken, incorporating Mediterranean flavors and a California ethos of seasonality and sustainability.
A photo of Siamo Napoli restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1322)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • North Park
Booked 46 times today
Specializing in Napolitano style pizza and pasta. We focus on clean fresh ingredients that thrive in our home land and make simple foods the star. We have a full bar with hand crafted drinks and a range of wines from Napoli and beyond.
A photo of Coasterra restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(7577)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Harbor Island
Booked 108 times today
Coasterra is San Diego's premier bay front dining destination! We are an innovative and modern restaurant, lounge and floating event center, featuring Mexican cuisine.
A photo of Louisiana Purchase SD restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(685)
Price: Expensive
• Creole / Cajun / Southern • North Park
Booked 43 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 Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar restaurant
4.5
Awesome(173)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Little Italy
Booked 15 times today
Authentic Baja-style, ceviche, and oyster restaurant. Unique tostadas, oysters, tiradito, clams
A photo of Brigantine at Portside Pier restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(4227)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Downtown
Booked 154 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 Alexander's on 30th restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(3091)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • North Park
Booked 46 times today
Neighborhood gem located in the heart of the Historic North Park District, adjoining Balboa Park and the world famous San Diego Zoo. Specializing in homestyle Italian with Gourmet Flair. Hand made Pastas, Award Winning Pizza and Voted Best of Restaurants by San Diego Magazine "Most Romantic". Listed as Top 25 Places to Eat in San Diego "Before You Die" by San Diego Union Tribune. Make memorable celebrations on our beautiful patio, the perfect ambiance for any occasion. Remember to try our diners favorites, The Theodore's Fix Pizza and Baked Vodka Bolognese.Look forward to serving you soon!
A photo of Tavola Nostra Pizzeria E Cucina restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(547)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Hillcrest
Booked 13 times today
San Diego, meet Pinsa.An ancient recipe comes back to life at Our Hillcrest Restaurant.Tavola Nostra Pizzeria E Cucina is a full-service Italian restaurant and pizzeria bringing a modern touch to family recipes and an ancient style of pizza called, Pinsa.Tavola Nostra, which means “our table”, is owned and operated by Jeff Oliveri – a first time restaurateur from a family of longtime restaurant owners who hopes to honor his familial heritage and tradition with his Italian dining concept that creates one of the best Hillcrest restaurants.
A photo of Madi restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(419)
Price: Moderate
• Breakfast • Kensington
Booked 49 times today
Bringing all-day brunch and grab-and-go coffee to Normal Heights, Madi is the upcoming daytime counterpart to Madison on Park, the well-established mid-century modern restaurant and bar that opened in University Heights in 2015. Offering a quick-service coffee counter fueled by Heartwork Coffee out of Mission Hills that’ll feature the full range of espresso drinks, specialty beverages, and tea as well as fresh pastries, Madi will also be an anytime option for sit-down breakfasts, mimosa-powered brunches, and casual lunches.Its breakfast menu ranges from waffle churro sticks and breakfast burritos to skirt steak eggs Benedict and a variety of pancakes based on a 60-year-old recipe from Madison co-owner Matthew, whose family runs a century-old breakfast spot in the midwest.Lunch will hinge on build-your-own grain and salad bowls along with lettuce wraps, ceviche, a burger, and a classic Tuna Melt!
A photo of Lou & Mickey's restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(4137)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Downtown
Booked 44 times today
Located at the gates to the historic Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego, Lou & Mickey’s is a timeless American steakhouse serving prime steaks, including in-house, dry-aged steaks, plus choice seafood, classic cocktails and an award-winning wine list, in a relaxing and inviting environment. Private dining capabilities also available.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • DianaVIP
    San Diego •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Delicious food. Good presentation. Fun menu. Parking always a bit difficult in that neighborhood. Group of 7 with an rsvp - we really enjoyed it!
    More info
    MadiPrice: Moderate• Breakfast• Kensington
    4.7
  • Scott
    Orange County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    They were very busy on christmas day, but had all hands on deck helping out and we had a great experience. Some of the best Italian food I've ever had.
    More info
    Tavola Nostra Pizzeria E CucinaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Hillcrest
    4.9
  • Kathleen
    Phoenix / Arizona •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Simply put, one of the best meals I have had the privilege of enjoying! Delightful server, Calvin, was very in tune with the timing of our meal and our needs. The fixed menu was perfect for Christmas Eve, as it kept the meal flowing and decision-making to a minimum. Every course was delectable from the scallop crudo, the creamed mushrooms, and the sea bass, to the date cake with walnut ice cream! Mezcal hibiscus cocktail was creative and tasty, as well! I will definitely be back!
    More info
    Herb & WoodPrice: Expensive• Californian• Little Italy
    4.7
  • GenaVIP
    San Diego •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Everything was great for an hitting. Menu selections easy to follow and they were easy to deal with with a sea food allergy
    More info
    The Melting Pot - Gaslamp QuarterPrice: Very Expensive• Fondue• Downtown
    4.6
  • Sergey
    Atlanta Metro •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 7, 2024
    The service was excellent, and the food was fresh and unique. They had some delicious seafood dishes, including raw oysters and Peruvian-influenced ceviches. Everything tasted amazing. The outdoor seating next to the heating lamp created a cozy atmosphere. The only downside was the limited drink selection. They offered a few cocktails but lacked most of the liquors. For instance, they couldn’t make a gin martini. On the positive side, they had a good selection of wines. Overall, we had a great experience with a touch of European charm and Peruvian flavor.
    More info
    Crudo Ceviche & Oyster BarPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Little Italy
    4.5
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