131 Best Southern American Restaurants In Downtown

A photo of Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego restaurant

1. Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego

4.7

Exceptional(1009)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 29 times today

Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego is a standout destination for Pizza Bar cuisine, offering a delightful experience in the heart of Downtown San Diego. Known for its woodfire-oven baked pizzas, Provisional serves up authentic Italian flavors that have earned rave reviews for their "extraordinary service and quality." Guests appreciate the "beautiful venue" and "lovely atmosphere," which enhance the dining experience. The pizzas, crafted with fresh ingredients and a perfect crisp crust, are a testament to the restaurant's commitment to excellence. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Provisional promises a memorable culinary journey with its top-notch Pizza Bar offerings.

2. Cowboy Star

4.8

Exceptional(4856)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 52 times today

Cowboy Star in downtown San Diego is a gem of Contemporary American cuisine, capturing the essence of regional American heirloom recipes with a modern twist. Their commitment to using locally sourced, natural, and organic ingredients shines through every dish, offering "exceptional quality" that diners rave about. Known for their impeccable service and warm atmosphere, Cowboy Star is celebrated for its perfectly cooked steaks, with one reviewer exclaiming, "the best steakhouse in San Diego, PERIOD." The diverse menu, which includes top-notch wine and cocktails, ensures that every visit is a "memorable and enjoyable experience," making Cowboy Star a must-visit for any steak lover.

A photo of Saint James French Diner restaurant

3. Saint James French Diner

4.6

Exceptional(274)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 24 times today

This American diner meets elegant French bistro is open Monday–Friday for Breakfast and Lunch, every day for Dinner and Happy Hour, and on the weekends for Brunch. With a full bar and an approachable menu, locals and travelers can indulge in a variety of French-inspired classics, from shared mussels to ratatouille and burgers.

4. Huntress

4.6

Exceptional(863)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 32 times today

Huntress in downtown San Diego redefines American cuisine with its adventurous and energetic approach, offering diners a truly "world-class experience." As a standout modern steakhouse, it boasts the finest cuts of meat, such as the highly recommended Australian Wagyu, and complements them with "exquisite presentations" that rival a Michelin star experience. Guests rave about the "amazing service" provided by knowledgeable staff, ensuring each visit is memorable. With a lively atmosphere, one of California's largest collections of Japanese whisky, and unique dishes like the Magic Mushroom dessert, Huntress delivers on its promise of American cuisine elevated to extraordinary heights.

A photo of Rustic Root - Gaslamp restaurant

5. Rustic Root - Gaslamp

new

4.4

Awesome(1362)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 52 times today

Rustic Root showcases our take on New American Comfort food with a California twist. Classic dishes are rooted in tradition, including regional dishes from around the country. All reimagined with fresh and local ingredients and our Chef’s modern flair. Our Signature drink menus offer our take on timeless classic cocktails as well as Rustic Root originals using creative spirits and the freshest ingredients. Join us in our street-level dining room for dinner nightly or our award-winning weekend brunch. Our rooftop lounge is an excellent place to grab drinks & a bite with friends, enjoying the San Diego weather and our unique location in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter. Close to the San Diego Convention Center, we're a favorite for locals and out of town tourists alike.

A photo of Lionfish Restaurant at Pendry San Diego restaurant

6. Lionfish Restaurant at Pendry San Diego

4.7

Exceptional(1777)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 47 times today

Lionfish Restaurant at Pendry San Diego, nestled in the vibrant Downtown, is a standout in American cuisine. Renowned for its innovative twists and seasonal ingredients, it offers a fresh-catch experience that diners rave about. One reviewer exclaimed, "The food was incredible and perfect to share," highlighting the delectable variety and quality presented in each dish. Notably, the restaurant's American flair is evident in the exquisite steak and lobster spaghetti, praised as "amazing" and "rich and tasty." With its polished ambiance and exceptional service, Lionfish ensures an unforgettable dining adventure, making it a must-visit for lovers of authentic and refined American cuisine.

7. Grant Grill

4.6

Exceptional(1656)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 14 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.

A photo of Greystone Prime Steakhouse & Seafood restaurant

8. Greystone Prime Steakhouse & Seafood

3.7

Very Good(2375)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 20 times today

Greystone Prime Steakhouse & Seafood in Downtown, San Diego, is a beacon for seafood aficionados seeking top-tier quality and authenticity. Renowned for its fresh and expertly prepared dishes, diners frequently rave about their seafood options. One delighted guest exclaimed, "The oysters were super fresh and delicious," while another praised the perfectly cooked Chilean Sea Bass as "a must try!" The restaurant's commitment to sourcing the finest seafood ensures an unforgettable dining experience that captivates the palate. Greystone's dedication to excellence, combined with its elegant ambiance and outstanding service, makes it a standout choice for seafood lovers in San Diego.

9. STK- San Diego

4.3

Awesome(3432)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 53 times today

STK- San Diego stands out as a premier destination for authentic American cuisine, perfectly blending traditional steakhouse excellence with a vibrant, modern twist. Located in the heart of Downtown San Diego, this steakhouse offers a "high-energy dining experience" that captivates patrons from start to finish. Guests rave about the "spectacular food" and "exceptional service," making it a top choice for special occasions and casual outings alike. The menu, featuring mouth-watering steaks and reimagined American classics, showcases the highest quality ingredients with traceable sourcing. Whether celebrating a milestone or enjoying a lively Happy Hour, STK promises an unforgettable American dining adventure.

10. Bronze Bird

4.6

Exceptional(174)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 5 times today

Bronze Bird, nestled in the vibrant Downtown San Diego, offers a delightful foray into Contemporary American cuisine, skillfully blending So Cal comfort fare with modern culinary techniques. Located in The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, this spot is revered for its "exceptional" service and "delicious" dishes, which make it a perfect pre-theater dining destination. Diners rave about its inventive twists on classic dishes and the attentive staff that ensures every visit is memorable. The restaurant's ambiance complements its culinary offerings, creating a "casual and fun" atmosphere that keeps guests coming back for more. Whether it's the perfectly grilled steak or the divine tomato soup, Bronze Bird promises an authentic and satisfying Contemporary American dining experience.

Best Southern American Restaurants in Downtown

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Award-winning

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131 restaurants available nearby

1. Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego

2. Cowboy Star

3. Saint James French Diner

4. Huntress

5. Rustic Root - Gaslamp

6. Lionfish Restaurant at Pendry San Diego

7. Grant Grill

8. Greystone Prime Steakhouse & Seafood

9. STK- San Diego

10. Bronze Bird

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