85 Best Southern American Restaurants In San Diego

A photo of California English restaurant

1. California English

4.6

Exceptional(527)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Sorrento Mesa

Booked 21 times today

California English, nestled in the vibrant Sorrento Valley of San Diego, offers a delightful fusion of Californian cuisine with a British twist, crafted by the esteemed celebrity chef Richard Blais. This restaurant stands out for its “amazing take on British food with a fresh flare,” showcasing the use of locally sourced ingredients that are emblematic of the Californian culinary tradition. Diners rave about the “best fish and chips so far in San Diego” and the exquisite "sticky toffee and date cake." With a “peaceful and enjoyable ambience,” California English is the perfect spot to savor authentic Californian flavors with a unique British influence.

A photo of Seasons 52 - San Diego - UTC restaurant

2. Seasons 52 - San Diego - UTC

4.8

Exceptional(5048)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • University City/Golden Triangle

Booked 82 times today

Nestled in the vibrant University City/Golden Triangle area of San Diego, Seasons 52 - UTC is renowned for its exceptional Seafood cuisine. Diners rave about the "fabulous" Chilean sea bass, which is described as "tender inside and crispy outside," showcasing the restaurant's commitment to quality and freshness. The mahi mahi tacos are another highlight, praised for their "flavorful and tasty" preparation. Seasons 52's dedication to using seasonal ingredients ensures that each dish bursts with natural flavors, delivering an authentic Seafood experience. With excellent service and a charming atmosphere, it's no wonder guests leave feeling delighted and eager to return.

A photo of Gravity Heights Sorrento Valley restaurant

3. Gravity Heights Sorrento Valley

4.6

Exceptional(1210)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Sorrento Mesa

Booked 34 times today

Gravity Heights Sorrento Valley is a true gem in the realm of Californian cuisine, nestled in the vibrant Sorrento Mesa neighborhood of San Diego. Praised for its "delicious food made with quality ingredients," this restaurant effortlessly marries the art of brewing with the culinary delights that California is renowned for. The menu, featuring highlights like "the pizza and Thai Shrimp salad," reflects the essence of Californian flavors with a modern twist, ensuring a memorable dining experience. With an atmosphere described as "great for family along with furry family members" and attentive service, Gravity Heights is a must-visit for those seeking authentic Californian cuisine.

A photo of The Grill at The Lodge at Torrey Pines restaurant

4. The Grill at The Lodge at Torrey Pines

4.6

Exceptional(2388)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • La Jolla

Booked 33 times today

The Grill at The Lodge at Torrey Pines in La Jolla, San Diego, is a shining example of authentic Farm-to-table cuisine. This restaurant is celebrated for its commitment to using local ingredients, ensuring that every dish is a genuine reflection of the region's bounty. Diners revel in the "wonderful ambiance" and "exceptional staff" that make each visit memorable. The Grill's dedication to quality craftsmanship is evident in their wood-fired dishes, which are consistently praised for being "delicious" and "fantastic." With spectacular views of the iconic Torrey Pines Golf Course and a harmonious blend of flavors, The Grill offers an unparalleled dining experience.

A photo of The WineSellar & Brasserie restaurant

5. The WineSellar & Brasserie

4.9

Exceptional(1013)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Sorrento Mesa

Booked 5 times today

The WineSellar & Brasserie in Sorrento Mesa, San Diego, is a quintessential destination for authentic American cuisine, where culinary excellence meets an exquisite wine selection. Celebrated for its "exceptional service and outstanding food," this hidden gem delivers an unmatched dining experience. The menu showcases a creative range of elegant California selections, offering perfectly cooked dishes like duck confit and short ribs. With accolades like the Wine Spectator's "Grand Award," it’s not just a meal but a journey through expertly paired wines and seasonally inspired flavors. This San Diego treasure ensures a delightful experience for every diner, making each visit truly special.

A photo of Addison By William Bradley restaurant

6. Addison By William Bradley

4.9

Exceptional(1882)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Del Mar

Booked 26 times today

Addison, Southern California’s first three-star Michelin restaurant, showcases the beauty and allure of California Gastronomy. Chef William Bradley offers his distinct culinary perspective through an experience that celebrates regional ingredients and influences. With its picturesque views of the surrounding hillside, the dining room creates a transportive setting for Bradley’s ten-course tasting menu. To further enhance the experience, Addison’s 10,000 bottle wine program showcases small producers, rare Champagnes, and new discoveries from around the world.Since 2006, the purity and precision of Addison's approach has led to global recognition for the restaurant and the San Diego culinary scene. Addison is among an exclusive selection of stand-alone Relais & Châteaux restaurants worldwide, and, in addition to its three-star Michelin designation, is honored on La Liste. It has consistently received the highest recognition from Wine Spectator for its wine program.

A photo of True Food Kitchen - San Diego UTC restaurant

7. True Food Kitchen - San Diego UTC

4.5

Awesome(1084)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • La Jolla

Booked 35 times today

True Food Kitchen - San Diego UTC stands out as a beacon of exceptional Vegetarian and Vegan cuisine. Nestled in the vibrant La Jolla neighborhood of San Diego, this restaurant is celebrated for its innovative and health-conscious dishes crafted by expertly trained chefs. Diners frequently applaud the “excellent vegetarian and vegan food options” and the “delicious and healthy” offerings that never compromise on taste. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in every bite, making it a beloved destination for those seeking flavorful and nutritious meals. Whether for lunch, dinner, or brunch, True Food Kitchen promises a delightful dining experience that's both good for you and utterly indulgent.

A photo of The Shores Restaurant - La Jolla Shores Hotel restaurant

8. The Shores Restaurant - La Jolla Shores Hotel

4.3

Awesome(2455)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • La Jolla

Booked 43 times today

The Shores Restaurant at La Jolla Shores Hotel is a seafood lover's paradise, offering a sublime dining experience with views that are as impressive as the menu. Known for its "delicious fish" and "superb AHI appetizer," the restaurant delights patrons with fresh, authentic seafood dishes that resonate with the vibrant flavors of the Pacific. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the ocean, diners can enjoy dishes like ceviche and fish tacos, praised for being "very good" and "of the highest quality." Executive Chef Michael Vaughn masterfully combines California's beach-style dining with a family-friendly atmosphere, making every meal memorable and unique.

A photo of Ballast Point Miramar restaurant

9. Ballast Point Miramar

4.4

Awesome(1193)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • La Jolla

Booked 4 times today

Get ready to spend the day with us! A must-see in San Diego, our restaurant is an impressive sight, featuring a sprawling indoor/outdoor dining area, a patio complete with a fire pit, patio games, and a merchandise area. We look forward to welcoming you! Make a reservation in our full-service dining room or enjoy our self-service patio. Our tasting room bar area offers open seating, so drop by and join us for our full menu available throughout the restaurant.

10. Forbidden Cove

4.5

Awesome(69)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Kearny Mesa

Booked 18 times today

Forbidden Cove is a hidden paradise in Kearny Mesa, San Diego, offering an authentic Hawaiian culinary experience that delights every sense. The enchanting speakeasy atmosphere, accessed through a secret rum barrel door, sets the stage for an unforgettable dining adventure. Guests rave about the "fantastic ambiance" and "delicious" Hawaiian-inspired dishes, like the fresh poke and Kalua pork nachos, which are praised for their "excellent flavor." The drinks are equally celebrated, with the Scorpion Bowl and Lapu Lapu described as "fruity citrus delights." Whether you're exploring their tiki elixirs or savoring their elevated Hawaiian cuisine, Forbidden Cove promises a taste of the islands that you'll want to revisit.

Best Southern American Restaurants in San Diego

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Top Rated

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Award-winning

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85 restaurants available nearby

1. California English

2. Seasons 52 - San Diego - UTC

3. Gravity Heights Sorrento Valley

4. The Grill at The Lodge at Torrey Pines

5. The WineSellar & Brasserie

6. Addison By William Bradley

7. True Food Kitchen - San Diego UTC

8. The Shores Restaurant - La Jolla Shores Hotel

9. Ballast Point Miramar

10. Forbidden Cove

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