Best Southern American Restaurants in Encinitas

Price

££
£££
££££

Regions

North San Diego

Areas

CarlsbadCarmel ValleyDel MarEncinitasRancho Santa FeSan Marcos

Top Rated

CharmingDog-friendlyFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasions

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeaway only

Seating options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Gender-neutral toiletWheelchair access

48 restaurants available nearby

1. SHELTER

4.1

Excellent(23)

££££Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Encinitas

"Open- air" cocktail lounge and nightclub in the heart of downtown Encinitas. DJ's nightly curating sexy house vibes. Reservations for bottle service are highly recommended. Shelter is a 21+ venue.

A photo of Waverly Restaurant & Lounge restaurant

2. Waverly Restaurant & Lounge

4.8

Exceptional(172)

££££Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Encinitas

Booked 73 times today

Waverly Restaurant & Lounge, nestled in picturesque Cardiff by The Sea, offers an exquisite take on Contemporary American cuisine with a unique European twist. Diners frequently praise its innovative dishes, with the duck meatball and whipped ricotta receiving standout reviews for being "delicious" and "super tasty." The atmosphere is lauded as "lively and fun" with an inviting indoor-outdoor setup, making it perfect for any occasion. Guests are treated to top-notch service, often described as "informative and friendly," contributing to an overall "5-star experience." Whether for a casual outing or a special celebration, Waverly consistently delivers excellence in every culinary aspect.

3. Haven

4.5

Awesome(207)

££££Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Encinitas

Booked 14 times today

Haven Farm + Table in Encinitas is a beacon of exquisite American cuisine, seamlessly combining farm-to-table freshness with innovative culinary artistry. Diners rave about the "divine food" crafted by Chef Kelston Moore, with standout dishes like the Jerk Pork Belly Mole and a "juicy, flavorful" Bison Burger. The lush, three-acre regenerative farm just steps from the kitchen ensures that every dish is as fresh as it is delicious. Guests are enchanted by the "amazing farm-to-table dishes" and the vibrant ambiance. With its "stunning views" and "phenomenal service," Haven offers a truly exceptional American dining experience that leaves guests eager to return.

A photo of Le Papagayo Encinitas restaurant

4. Le Papagayo Encinitas

4.5

Awesome(2277)

££££Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Encinitas

Booked 29 times today

Le Papagayo Encinitas offers an exquisite Mediterranean dining experience that has locals and visitors raving about its culinary delights. Known for its "delicious food, great atmosphere," and "outstanding service," this restaurant expertly crafts dishes using the freshest local ingredients. Guests are enchanted by the flavors of their Lobster Bisque, Paella, and Patatas Bravas, each described as "knocking it out of the park on flavor!" The ambiance is further enriched by live music, creating a vibrant yet cozy atmosphere. Situated in charming Encinitas, Le Papagayo is a "local favorite" that promises an unforgettable taste of the Mediterranean.

A photo of Chart House Restaurant - Cardiff restaurant

5. Chart House Restaurant - Cardiff

4.4

Awesome(7309)

££££Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Solana Beach

Booked 52 times today

Chart House Restaurant in Cardiff is a beacon of authentic American cuisine, offering an exquisite dining experience with a stunning oceanfront view. Known for its unparalleled service and ambiance, it has captivated diners for over 50 years. Guests rave about the “delicious brunch” and the “filet and shrimp combo prepared to perfection.” The Thanksgiving dinner is a standout, with “turkey that is moist and plentiful,” echoing traditional American flavors. The menu, featuring fresh seafood and slow-roasted prime rib, is complemented by signature cocktails and the irresistible Hot Chocolate Lava Cake. Chart House truly embodies the essence of classic American dining.

A photo of VAGA Restaurant & Bar restaurant

6. VAGA Restaurant & Bar

4.5

Awesome(275)

££££Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Encinitas

Booked 40 times today

VAGA Restaurant & Bar, perched on a coastal bluff in Encinitas, California, is a seafood lover's paradise. With a motto that embodies endless curiosity, VAGA expertly blends local and international flavors, ensuring every dish is both authentic and innovative. Diners rave about the "fresh and beautifully presented" Tuna Crudo, and the scallops, described as "one of the best preparations" ever tasted. The ocean view provides a stunning backdrop, making the dining experience unforgettable. Patrons are consistently impressed by the "extraordinary" quality of food and commend the "attentive and professional" service, making VAGA a must-visit destination for seafood enthusiasts.

7. Ember & Rye

4.6

Exceptional(1297)

££££Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Carlsbad

Booked 31 times today

Ember & Rye in Carlsbad offers an authentic American dining experience that beautifully blends tradition with modern flair, making it a standout in American cuisine. Located by the picturesque Aviara Golf Club, this Richard Blais steakhouse delights diners with "delicious delicious" dishes, from expertly cooked steaks to fresh seafood. Guests rave about the "5-star dining" quality paired with "impeccable service," making it perfect for special occasions or a casual meal. Highlights include the Denver steak, described as "to die for," and unique offerings like the corn crème brûlée. With its inviting ambiance and exceptional culinary creations, Ember & Rye is a must-visit.

A photo of Rustic Root - Solana Beach restaurant

8. Rustic Root - Solana Beach

4.4

Awesome(58)

££££Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Del Mar

Booked 77 times today

Modern rooftop destination featuring local, seasonal cuisine & craft cocktails in stylish surrounds.

A photo of Black Rail Kitchen + Bar restaurant

9. Black Rail Kitchen + Bar

4.4

Awesome(326)

££££Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Carlsbad

Booked 23 times today

Black Rail Kitchen + Bar in Carlsbad is a delightful haven for Mediterranean cuisine lovers. Under the expert guidance of Michoacán-born executive chef Moises Hernandez, the restaurant offers an exciting fusion of flavors that showcase the authenticity of Mediterranean cooking. Diners rave about the "extremely flavorful" lamb meatballs and the "sweetest and most scrumptious" whole fried fish, which highlights the exceptional quality of the dishes. The vibrant atmosphere, accentuated by live jazz music and a welcoming outdoor patio with heaters, makes every visit a memorable experience. Black Rail Kitchen + Bar is not only a neighborhood favorite but a true Mediterranean gem.

10. The Pocket

4.6

Exceptional(15)

££££Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Encinitas

Booked 8 times today

A seductive surf-inspired hangout fronted by epic ocean views.Catch the game, take a break from the beach or pool, or simply enjoy the sunset while snacking on crisp chicharróns and sipping a craft cocktail. For the moments between sunscreen and sundown, The Pocket presents Après Sea, featuring a menu of food and drink specials designed to refresh after a day on the surf and sand.We are a cash free environment.

‘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.

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