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Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Kearny Mesa

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97 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Madison restaurant
4.5
Awesome(3096)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • University Heights
Booked 66 times today
With their stunning design, classic cocktails & highly acclaimed fare, Madison finds itself among San Diego's can't miss restaurants! Serving many of Michelin recognized Chef Mario Cassineri classic dishes, perfect for Date Night of celebrating with friends. ʜᴀᴘᴘʏ ʜᴏᴜʀ - ᴇᴠᴇʀʏᴅᴀʏ 4-6ᴘᴍᴛᴜᴇꜱᴅᴀʏ - ʟɪᴠᴇ ᴊᴀᴢᴢ 7-9ᴘᴍᴡᴇᴅɴᴇꜱᴅᴀʏ - ᴅɪɴɴᴇʀ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴅᴏɢꜱᴛʜᴜʀꜱᴅᴀʏ - ᴅᴊ ꜱᴘɪɴɴɪɴɢ ᴏʟᴅ ꜱᴄʜᴏᴏʟ ᴠɪɴʏʟꜰʀɪᴅᴀʏ & ꜱᴀᴛᴜʀᴅᴀʏ ɴɪɢʜᴛ - ᴀʟᴡᴀʏꜱ ᴀ ᴘᴀʀᴛʏ ᴡᴇᴇᴋᴇɴᴅ ʙᴏᴏᴢʏ ʙʀᴜɴᴄʜ - ʟɪᴠᴇ ᴅᴊꜱꜱᴜɴᴅᴀʏ ɴɪɢʜᴛ - ʟᴀᴛɪɴ ᴊᴀᴢᴢ 6-8ᴘᴍ
A photo of The Godfather Restaurant restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1940)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Kearny Mesa
Booked 20 times today
The Godfather, a Balistreri restaurant, is an Italian monument in downtown San Diego providing authentic cuisine from the hills of Italy. Established in 1974, The Godfather is a sophisticated and classy establishment that centers around generational recipes from both Northern and Southern Italy. Over the years, the quality of food and standard of service has never declined and thus garnered The Godfather a national recognition as one of the top twenty-five Italian restaurants in the entire nation. The menu is filled with classic favorites based in steak, chicken and pasta. For an intimate evening for two, try the Sicilian kiss prix fixe meal that includes a bottle of champagne.
A photo of Wormwood restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(845)
Price: Very Expensive
• French • North Park
Booked 17 times today
Wormwood invites you to step into a bygone era, where poets, artists, and dreamers found inspiration in the Green Fairy. By night, we offer an elegant French dining experience, where each dish is crafted with passion, paired with curated wines and signature cocktails, and brought to life by our exceptional service. Whether in our cozy dining room, enchanting patio, or the hidden charm of our Secret Garden speakeasy, every evening is an unparalleled journey of flavor and hospitality.Now, we invite you to experience Wormwood’s weekend brunch, every Saturday and Sunday. Indulge in a refined menu, sip on handcrafted cocktails and artisanal coffees, and let the soulful sounds of live jazz transport you to Belle Époque Paris. A celebration of indulgence, romance, and hospitality, brunch at Wormwood is a morning affair you won’t want to miss.
A photo of 94th Aero Squadron - San Diego restaurant
3.6
Very Good(3248)
Price: Expensive
• American • Kearny Mesa
Booked 10 times today
For over 40 years, the 94th Aero Squadron Restaurant has been San Diego's landmark dining destination and is undoubtedly one of the most unique and memorable restaurants you will ever find. Located inside a replica of a World War I French farmhouse decorated with fascinating military memorabilia, antiques, and aviation relics, the restaurant overlooks Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport, and has a cozy and romantic ambiance, with large stone fireplaces, intimate booths, and beautiful views. The extensive menu features mid-western aged beef and the freshest seafood. Here you will find USDA Choice Prime Beef steaks, slow-roasted Angus prime rib, fresh fish, salad entrées, seafood, chicken, pasta dishes, and fabulous desserts. Their award-winning Champagne Brunch is not to be missed. Beautiful outdoor patios, a very popular Happy Hour, and excellent banquet facilities help make the 94th Aero Squadron one of the greatest dining experiences in all of San Diego.
A photo of Benihana - San Diego, CA restaurant
3.8
Excellent(7580)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Mission Valley
Booked 116 times today
Welcome to Benihana, a dining experience unlike any other! Our guests are seated at communal tables in groups, where your personal chef will perform the ancient art of Teppanyaki. Watch as we slice and dice, preparing a meal that will dazzle your eyes as well taste buds, whether you choose mouth-watering steak, tender chicken or succulent seafood. You can also enjoy sushi prepared by a talented sushi chef and indulge in a specialty cocktail.
A photo of Butcher Shop Steakhouse - San Diego restaurant
4.4
Awesome(2613)
Price: Expensive
• Steak • Kearny Mesa
Booked 17 times today
Reminiscent of a classic Chicago-style steakhouse, The Butcher Shop features only the finest quality mid-Reminiscent of a classic Chicago-style steakhouse, the ambiance is sexy, warm and intimate, with rich dark wood paneling, comfortable leather booths, gleaming brass and beautifully etched-glass panels.Indulge in the exquisite flavors of USDA Choice & Prime Midwestern steaks and chops, including our signature Prime Rib, slow-roasted to perfection to preserve its tender juiciness. All our steaks are expertly grilled over oak wood, imparting a delightful charred exterior and a hint of smoky richness. In addition to our stellar steaks, we offer a diverse selection that includes salmon, chicken, lamb, and pasta dishes, ensuring there's something to delight every palate.
A photo of Harmony Cuisine 2B1 restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(268)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Kearny Mesa
Booked 8 times today
Harmony Cuisine 2B1 is a gem in the neighborhood, offering a modern and relaxing atmosphere with traditional sushi and fusion dishes. With reviews like 'Nice ambiance, cozy space, great service, great food!' and 'Creative tasting menu, intimate ambience, long and attractive sushi bar with chefs on full display', it's clear this spot is a favorite among locals. As one reviewer put it, 'An excellent restaurant disguised as a hole in the wall.' This place is definitely a neighborhood gem!
A photo of Seasons 52 - San Diego - UTC restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(5071)
Price: Expensive
• American • University City/Golden Triangle
Booked 62 times today
Seasons 52 is a Fresh Grill and Wine Bar offering a seasonal menu that is naturally lighter and always flavorful. Our seasonal menus feature ingredients at their peak of freshness, oak-fire grilled or brick oven roasted (without a fryer in sight) to be naturally lighter and more flavorful. We also offer an extensive list of wines by the glass and bottle. Here, you'll always feel free to enjoy every bite, every sip, every moment. Lunch and dinner daily with happy hour Monday-Thursday from 3-6PM.
A photo of Madi restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(450)
Price: Moderate
• Breakfast • Kensington
Booked 50 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 Baci Restaurant - San Diego restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(1928)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Old Town
Booked 21 times today
Baci Ristorante offers diners a hint of old world Italian charm, with plush booths, white tablecloths, and gracious servers clad in tuxedos. While the decor is subtly modern, the menu is classic, celebrating Northern and Southern Italian cuisine. Specialties include classic pasta dishes, veal, and fresh seafood, with especially tempting daily specials offered by Executive Chef Domenico Alioto. In addition to the cuisine, the restaurant's charming and welcoming features--include an extensive wine list, elegant patio setting, and romantic main dining room--have made Baci a consistent favorite among locals for over 30 years.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • KathleenVIP
    San Diego •15 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    A very pleasant experience. Excellent service, menu and drink selection. All our meals were exceptional. The tiramisu was amazing and the best we ever tasted.
    More info
    The Godfather RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Italian• Kearny Mesa
    4.6
  • OpenTable DinerVIP
    Houston •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Excellent food and experience. The staff was very professional and the food was delicious.
    More info
    Benihana - San Diego, CAPrice: Moderate• Japanese• Mission Valley
    3.8
  • BellaVIP
    San Diego •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    If you're looking for a satisfying dining experience in San Diego, Aero 99's All-You-Can-Eat Buffet is a great choice. The restaurant offers a wide variety of delicious dishes that cater to all tastes, from fresh seafood to hearty meats and flavorful vegetables. The quality and freshness of the food are impressive, and there's always something new to try. The atmosphere is welcoming and comfortable, making it a perfect spot for families or friends to enjoy a meal together. The staff is attentive, ensuring that your dining experience is smooth and enjoyable. Whether you're in the mood for Asian cuisine, American comfort food, or dessert, Aero 99 has you covered with its diverse and abundant buffet options. Highly recommended for anyone in the area looking for great food
    More info
    94th Aero Squadron - San DiegoPrice: Expensive• American• Kearny Mesa
    3.6
  • Söl
    1 review
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Wonderful, friendly service. Beautiful restaurant and cozy ambiance. Delicious, quality food. Can't wait to come back!
    More info
    MadisonPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• University Heights
    4.5
  • Randee
    San Diego •237 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Mar 4, 2025
    we came for the Baja Dinner Series and each course was excellent. the Pacific Catch was my favorite. The wine pairings were excellent as well. we enjoyed the evening.
    More info
    WormwoodPrice: Very Expensive• French• North Park
    4.6

Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Kearny Mesa

Discover the hidden culinary treasures of Kearny Mesa, San Diego, where local dining establishments shine as true neighborhood gems. These restaurants are celebrated for their unique ambiance and exceptional service, creating a welcoming atmosphere that draws both locals and visitors alike. Renowned for a delightful fusion of flavors, the eateries in this area offer an array of cuisine options, blending traditional dishes with innovative culinary techniques. Each establishment stands out for its commitment to quality and authenticity, providing a dining experience that is both intimate and memorable. The dining scene in Kearny Mesa is vibrant and diverse, reflecting the community's passion for good food and good company. Whether you're seeking a cozy spot for a romantic dinner or a lively venue for a group gathering, Kearny Mesa's neighborhood gems are sure to exceed your expectations with their creative menus and friendly vibes.

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