Best Californian Restaurants in National City

Well now. It was a romantic date night and Animae was the Choice. Parking is $20 just know that. On arrival we weee greeted by three lovely ladies and they were most welcoming. We were escorted to our table (the very first table off the lobby and right next to a service station. So not the best, but o chose to let it be and see how it goes. How it went was marvelous. The staff was very quiet and courteous and the service staton was not noisy at all. Being the first table by the lobby and right next to the bar made it a bit more noisy, but nothing to complain about. The server was great. She knew the menu and when we were chatting about menu items she hit it out of the park with recommendations. We ordered some drinks and -low - in your face fantastic. $18 each or more so the tab runs up pretty quickly. The crudo and the cucumbers were a delight. The mains, the filet and the tomahawk pork chill were a 10 out of 10. The sides- the potatoes and the wagyu fried rice were stellar. Probably the best Fride rice we’d ever had. Really. We did not have dessert as we were full. When anyone got up from the table, the server put the chair in place and re-folded the napkin and laid it on the table. A nice touch. This is a high end of high end places. $395 all in for two. 100% worth it. If there was one thing I would change is that I would lay cocktail napkins or a coaster because our drinks would sweat, make a water puddle on the table and then drip on us both as we raised them to our mouths. A smallest of small nits to pick. Near flawless.

Food was incredible. Started with Hamachi and Crudo apps. Followed by Wagyu NY Strip and husband had the lamb leg. Side of carrots were so good. Wrapped up with the toffee date cake with black walnut ice cream. One of our favorite meals of the year. Ambience was good but a little loud and tables for two was on the small side but overall a fantastic meal and we will be back for sure.

The team there as always provided outstanding service. Very welcoming, attentive and so fun. Unfortunately the food was a little underwhelming (my chicken was dry and my friends’ side dish was cold). However, the holiday decorations were so fun and festive. Had a great evening celebrating my friend’s birthday!

The Prado at Christmastime; it doesn’t get any more iconic San Diego than that! We dined with good friends, brought in one bottle of wine and ordered one at the table. Food was outstanding; our server, Katarina, was attentive and knowledgeable and good natured. Very good at her job! We had a great table and were never rushed to next course. It was a beautiful relaxing evening to share an outstanding dining experience with great friends.

worth every penny and every calorie - bravo chef bradley and staff!