Best Californian Restaurants in Old Town

52 restaurants available nearby

1. insideOUT

4.8

Exceptional(2363)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Hillcrest

Booked 70 times today

insideOUT in Hillcrest, San Diego, is a must-visit destination for Mediterranean cuisine enthusiasts. The restaurant's California-Mediterranean inspired menu, crafted by Executive Chef Johnny Duran, is a testament to the use of seasonally fresh, local ingredients, delivering an authentic and flavorful experience. Guests rave about the “absolutely delicious” food and the “magical” ambiance, creating a lively and memorable dining experience. The holiday-themed decor adds a whimsical touch, making it a favorite spot for festive occasions. As one delighted diner put it, insideOUT “never disappoints” with its impeccable service and attention to detail, ensuring a dining experience that is both "beautiful and yummy."

2. Herb & Wood

4.6

Exceptional(6499)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Little Italy

Booked 89 times today

Herb & Wood in San Diego's vibrant Little Italy is a shining example of exquisite American cuisine. Celebrated Chef Brian Malarkey crafts a menu that elevates rustic, wood-fired dishes, blending Mediterranean flair with California's commitment to seasonality and sustainability. Diners rave about the "incredible dinner" experience, showcasing "amazing, flavorful food" and "outstanding service." The ambiance is described as "beautiful" and "welcoming," making every visit memorable. Signature dishes like the pork belly and filet mignon are praised for their exceptional taste. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a night out, Herb & Wood promises a "truly memorable culinary experience."

A photo of The Prado at Balboa Park restaurant

3. The Prado at Balboa Park

4.6

Exceptional(7932)

Price: Moderate

• Californian • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 92 times today

Nestled in the heart of San Diego's historic Balboa Park, The Prado stands out not only for its California cuisine but also as an exceptional Cocktail Bar. The ambiance is warm and enchanting, setting the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable cocktail experience. Guests have raved about the "excellent cocktails," with standout mentions like the pradoritas, which are described as "the best" margaritas around. The staff's knowledge and passion for mixology ensure that each drink is crafted to perfection, adding to the charm of this iconic location. Whether you're a cocktail aficionado or a casual diner, The Prado promises a delightful and memorable experience.

4. Animae

4.8

Exceptional(3263)

Price: Very Expensive

• Californian • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 90 times today

Animae, nestled in the heart of Downtown San Diego, is a shining beacon of Californian cuisine, masterfully intertwined with Asian influences. Celebrated Chef Brian Malarkey elevates the dining experience by harnessing the essence of California cooking, using local produce and seasonal ingredients in every dish. The restaurant's coal-fired oven and grill bring a delightful depth to creations like the "melt-in-your-mouth" A5 Wagyu and the "incredibly flavorful" tomahawk tocino, leaving diners in awe. Animae's vibrant atmosphere and artful presentation make it a "must-visit" for those seeking an authentic and innovative taste of California's culinary landscape.

5. Kettner Exchange

4.7

Exceptional(1374)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Little Italy

Booked 62 times today

Kettner Exchange in Little Italy, San Diego, offers an exceptional Asian fusion experience that is both inventive and authentic. Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski’s creations have earned the restaurant a coveted spot on the Michelin Guide's Bib Gourmand list since 2019, showcasing high-quality meals at accessible prices. Diners rave about the "spicy garlic noodles" and "juicy cheeseburger special," underscoring the delightful fusion of flavors. The rooftop patio with stunning harbor views enhances the dining ambiance, making it perfect for any occasion. Guests frequently praise the "stellar service" and "amazing cocktails," solidifying Kettner Exchange as a must-visit destination for Asian cuisine enthusiasts.

6. Madison

4.5

Awesome(3034)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • University Heights

Booked 92 times today

Madison, nestled in the vibrant University Heights of San Diego, is a culinary gem that offers an authentic Italian dining experience like no other. Michelin-recognized Chef Mario Cassineri crafts exquisite dishes that have diners raving "the food and drinks were amazing," making each meal memorable. The restaurant's ambiance is described as "airy, romantic, stylish, and peaceful," perfectly complementing the rich flavors of its traditional Italian fare. Madison's commitment to quality and creativity shines through in every dish, with standout favorites like the flavorful chicken piccata and vegan pasta. Whether for brunch or dinner, Madison promises an unparalleled Italian culinary journey.

A photo of Ironside Fish & Oyster restaurant

7. Ironside Fish & Oyster

4.5

Awesome(4571)

Price: Moderate

• Californian • Little Italy

Booked 120 times today

Ironside Fish & Oyster in San Diego's Little Italy is a quintessential hotspot for authentic American cuisine, seamlessly blending traditional and contemporary flavors. This gem pays homage to its roots in the fishing industry with a mouthwatering menu that features renowned dishes such as the lobster roll and clam chowder, praised for being “chock full of clams.” The vibrant atmosphere and top-notch service are frequently highlighted in reviews, with one diner noting the “excellent experience, food, and ambience.” With a stellar raw bar and an enticing happy hour, Ironside promises a “delightful experience” that diners find irresistible.

A photo of ZENTRL Kitchen + Bar - Liberty Station restaurant

8. ZENTRL Kitchen + Bar - Liberty Station

3.9

Excellent(659)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Point Loma

Booked 7 times today

ZENTRL Kitchen + Bar, located in the vibrant heart of Liberty Station, offers an extraordinary Asian culinary experience that is a true delight for the senses. Known for its "amazing food" and "outstanding service," this restaurant blends California-Asian fusion with a touch of Mexican flair, resulting in unique dishes like Grilled Miso Salmon and Adobada Pork Belly Bao Bun. Guests revel in the "cool vibe" and "great ambiance," making it a perfect spot for any occasion. Whether you're enjoying their Asian-inspired cocktails or indulging in a delicious brunch, ZENTRL promises an unforgettable dining experience in Point Loma, San Diego.

A photo of La Gran Terraza - University of San Diego restaurant

9. La Gran Terraza - University of San Diego

4.7

Exceptional(1127)

Price: Moderate

• Californian • Mission Valley

Booked 2 times today

La Gran Terraza, nestled in the heart of Mission Valley, San Diego, stands as a beacon of exceptional Mediterranean cuisine. This California bistro artfully combines farm-to-table freshness with authentic Mediterranean flavors. Diners consistently rave about the "delicious courses and lots of food," praising the "tasty 5 star quality" offerings. With a dreamy setting overlooking Tecolote Canyon and Mission Bay, every meal is an experience to savor. The chefs are heralded as "supreme sauce masters," crafting dishes like the exquisite black cod with creamy beurre blanc sauce. La Gran Terraza’s commitment to quality and authenticity makes it a must-visit for Mediterranean enthusiasts.

10. Grant Grill

4.8

Exceptional(1629)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 11 times today

Grant Grill, nestled in the heart of Downtown San Diego, masterfully delivers an unparalleled Contemporary American dining experience. Celebrated for its "world-class" food and "outstanding service," this iconic restaurant has been a beacon of culinary excellence since 1951. The menu, reflecting the best of seasonal ingredients, offers a fresh approach to American classics, ensuring every dish is a standout. Diners rave about the "superb" seabass and "divine" pork chop, while the elegant ambiance and attentive service create a perfect setting for any occasion. Whether enjoying a leisurely brunch or an exquisite dinner, Grant Grill promises an unforgettable experience, redefining Contemporary American cuisine.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

G
GaryVIP
Palm Springs / Palm Desert Cities •41 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
The experience was excellent. Food and service were awesome! Our server, Makenzie, was very attentive and explained any questions we had regarding the menu with great understanding of the food and how it is prepared.
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AnimaePrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary Asian• Downtown / Gaslamp
•
4.8
M
MellonyVIP
Asheville / Western North Carolina •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Our very first visit was a tastebud journey down the road of a perfect dinner experience!!!!! Perfection!!! Our waiter was so awesome and fun!!! Loved it!!!
More info
Kettner ExchangePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
•
4.7
C
CarolVIP
Denver / Colorado •78 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
We always have a great experience at Prado. The salads are delicious and you can add shrimp, salmon or chicken. The hamburger is huge and the fries are so good. I love the Arugula salad with salmon. The salmon was cooked perfectly. My husband had the shrimp cobb salad that was very large and filling. We enjoy having a nice glass of wine while soaking up the lovely view from the patio and the warm sunshine. We'll be back soon.
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The Prado at Balboa ParkPrice: Moderate• Californian• Downtown / Gaslamp
•
4.6
G
Giovanna
San Antonio •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Incredible. The food and service was excellent. It was so vibey. Can’t wait to go back.
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Herb & WoodPrice: Expensive• Californian• Little Italy
•
4.6
I
Ian
San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
We really loved the space! It had a great, almost club like atmosphere. I ordered the filet mignon, which I had to cook table side. It was brought to me on a hot stone. It came with rustic potatoes, best potatoes I ever had. My fiance ordered the chicken breast, the chicken was very bland and dry, he was pretty disappointed. Over all great experience, staff was very friendly, will come back.
More info
insideOUTPrice: Expensive• Californian• Hillcrest
•
4.8

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Old Town

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Best Californian Restaurants in Old Town

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52 restaurants available nearby

1. insideOUT

2. Herb & Wood

3. The Prado at Balboa Park

4. Animae

5. Kettner Exchange

6. Madison

7. Ironside Fish & Oyster

8. ZENTRL Kitchen + Bar - Liberty Station

9. La Gran Terraza - University of San Diego

10. Grant Grill

See what locals rave about

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