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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Pacific Beach

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48 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Cesarina restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(5516)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Ocean Beach
Booked 202 times today
Cesarina is a grandmother, a mother, a daughter—our personification of a nurturer who feeds and cares for her community. From meticulous attention to detail and fresh ingredients to the warm and inviting atmosphere, this restaurant is a celebration of the power of food and family.
A photo of Marisi restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1062)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • La Jolla
Booked 88 times today
Discovering Italy by way of La Jolla, Marisi focuses on Italian hearth cooking with an emphasis on handmade pastas, fine wine and classic cocktails. The menu celebrates the rich diversity of cuisine from across Italy, fashioned in a time-honored tradition of handmade all day, every day. A dream that lives between the Italian and La Jolla coasts, suspended between tides instead of time — a mood more than a plot. A visit that feels a lot like coming home, if home was a warm, charming villa off the Amalfi coast. Marisi is a taste of something you want to remember. We hope you love it.
A photo of Barbarella restaurant
4.3
Awesome(835)
Price: Moderate
• European • La Jolla
Booked 55 times today
Barbarella is a restaurant and full bar located on Avenida De La Playa in La Jolla Shores. Adorned with an eclectic mix of art and boasting plenty of outdoor seating, Barbarella a one-of-a-kind culinary gem with executive Chef Lynn Crawford!
A photo of Elvira restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(414)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Ocean Beach
Booked 74 times today
Benvenuti Nella Mia Cucina, Belli De Nonna! Before we dive into the delicious feast prepared for you, let me give you a little taste of my vita. I was born in the heart of Rome, and I've been cooking up a storm my entire life! My cucina has always been the center of the universe for my 3 daughters, 5 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, their friends, loved ones, and acquaintances – everyone was always Benvenuto!Now, we've brought that same love and flavor right here to San Diego. My beloved grandson, Niccolo', and his amore, Cesarina, are opening the doors of my Cucina with the same warm heart and passion.Wondering how I made it to 95? Well, it's simple: I ate everything that's served here and filled my life with amore! So, Benvenuti! Don't hesitate to indulge in "Scarpetta" - dip that bread into the sauce, just like my grandchildren used to do at the stove when they thought I wasn't looking.Here, Belli De Nonna, it’s all about food, family, and creating beautiful memories!
A photo of Duke's La Jolla restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(6555)
Price: Moderate
• Hawaiian Regional • La Jolla
Booked 189 times today
We are open for indoor and outdoor dining, takeout, and delivery! Visit dukeslajolla.com to view our menus or place an online takeout order.You don’t need to cross the Pacific to get a taste of Hawaii. Duke’s La Jolla is San Diego’s island-inspired home, honoring the Ambassador of Aloha, Duke Kahanamoku, with coastal cuisine of Hawaii, craft cocktails and a genuine spirit of aloha. It’s the same authentic hospitality and panoramic ocean view that you’ll find at all of the California and Hawaii Duke’s restaurants, paying tribute to the Duke and welcoming you to celebrate life like the legend himself.
A photo of El Sueño restaurant
4.0
Excellent(174)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Old Town
Booked 26 times today
Coming Soon to Open Table!Vibrant Mexican Food and Craft Cocktails.
A photo of Miss B's Coconut Club restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(119)
Price: Moderate
• Caribbean • Mission Beach
Booked 3 times today
What you’ll find here is classic, Caribbean-inspired American food with tiki flair. Cubano Roasted Pork, Jerk Chicken and Coconut Shrimp are in synch with the mambo rhythm of your appetite, and our house-ground burger is one like you won’t find anywhere in town. Jumbo Coconut Shrimp and a list of Street Cart items will have you coming back to try them all, whether you order something “to go” from our walk-up counter, stay to eat on our spacious outdoor patio, or take a seat inside.Coconut Club’s décor evokes a celebration of Mission Beach’s nautical and maritime past, which takes form as an inspired interpretation of a 30’s-style sailor tiki club. Rum is the star here, and has a leading role in our creative list of grownup cocktails, which includes shareable, tiki-inspired punches and bowls to drum up conversations and generate a buzz. Coconut Club is also a purveyor of fuel that fires the craft beer frenzy, with 20 local and microbrew tap handles.
A photo of Queenstown Village restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(255)
Price: Moderate
• New Zealand • La Jolla
Queenstown Village is a new hotspot in San Diego, serving a mix of New Zealand fare and American comfort food. It's raved for its vibe and ambiance, with many reviewers praising the friendly service, delicious food, and beautiful decor. It's also commended for its full bar offerings, including craft cocktails and local beers. So, if you're looking for a beautiful dining experience with great food and service, it's definitely worth the drive.
A photo of Bistro du Marché by Tapenade restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(1464)
Price: Expensive
• French • La Jolla
Bistro du Marché by Tapenade is a gem in San Diego. Reviews rave about its 'consistently delicious food', 'amazing service', and 'beautiful atmosphere'. It's described as 'the best French restaurant in San Diego' with 'authentic French cuisine'. Even the ambience is likened to eating in NYC or France, making it a 'worthwhile drive' according to several patrons. It's more than just a meal, it's an enchanting experience that you won't regret!
A photo of Trattoria Don Pietro restaurant
4.4
Awesome(797)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Old Town
Booked 12 times today
Trattoria Don Pietro is a hit in San Diego's Old Town! With a trendy twist on traditional Italian cuisine, this restaurant is loved for its stunning ambience, excellent service, and fantastic food. One reviewer raved, 'Food, drinks and waiter amazing!' while another noted, 'The food was incredible.' Plus, it's located in a wisteria garden patio for an extra special touch. It's a must-visit for Italian food lovers in San Diego!

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • MichaelVIP
    San Diego •26 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Our family of 5 were there for Christmas Eve dinner. We had reservations at 5:15 pm and were seated promptly. The service was very nice and took our drink orders and appetizer orders right away. We've been here many times before and had always enjoyed the ahi taco and calamari. This time I also had a Caesar salad which was good. The bar ran out of Bombay so could not have my usual Bombay tonic but substituted Tanqueray which was fine. The entrees included the Duke's fish, steamed fish and shrimp in the banana leaves, a filet medium rare and the seafood hot pot. And of course, you can't finish a meal without Hula pie. Our only wish for Christmas: have Prime Rib like they have at Duke's Huntington Beach. Otherwise, the experience was enjoyable and we shall be back.
    More info
    Duke's La JollaPrice: Moderate• Hawaiian Regional• La Jolla
    4.6
  • Kathleen
    Phoenix / Arizona •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Simply put, one of the best meals I have had the privilege of enjoying! Delightful server, Calvin, was very in tune with the timing of our meal and our needs. The fixed menu was perfect for Christmas Eve, as it kept the meal flowing and decision-making to a minimum. Every course was delectable from the scallop crudo, the creamed mushrooms, and the sea bass, to the date cake with walnut ice cream! Mezcal hibiscus cocktail was creative and tasty, as well! I will definitely be back!
    More info
    Herb & WoodPrice: Expensive• Californian• Little Italy
    4.7
  • Tom
    Los Angeles •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Excellent Christmas Eve 5 course. Food and wine (pairing) was delicious. Staff are super cool. Love the vibe here, this was our first time. Sat outside on the patio. Heat lamps are great. Will be coming back ASAP.
    More info
    Jeune et JoliePrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary French• Carlsbad
    4.9
  • Catalina
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    We are always happy to dine at The Venetian. It’s a tradition in our family, and we feel like we’ve been invited to a family dinner with fabulous food and terrific service!
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    The Venetian RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Italian• Point Loma
    4.8
  • Sergey
    Atlanta Metro •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 7 Dec 2024
    The service was excellent, and the food was fresh and unique. They had some delicious seafood dishes, including raw oysters and Peruvian-influenced ceviches. Everything tasted amazing. The outdoor seating next to the heating lamp created a cozy atmosphere. The only downside was the limited drink selection. They offered a few cocktails but lacked most of the liquors. For instance, they couldn’t make a gin martini. On the positive side, they had a good selection of wines. Overall, we had a great experience with a touch of European charm and Peruvian flavor.
    More info
    Crudo Ceviche & Oyster BarPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Little Italy
    4.5

Discover best worth the drive restaurants in Pacific Beach

Discover the culinary treasures of San Diego's Pacific Beach with restaurants that are truly 'worth the drive.' This vibrant area boasts an array of dining options that promise not only a meal but an experience that's worth every mile. From stunning ocean views to innovative local cuisine, each restaurant in Pacific Beach offers a unique blend of ambiance and flavors that capture the essence of San Diego dining. The dining scene here is characterized by its laid-back yet sophisticated atmosphere, appealing to both locals and visitors seeking quality and memorable gastronomy. Every establishment prides itself on exceptional service, ensuring that every visit is as pleasant as it is delicious. Whether you're in the mood for fresh seafood, exotic flavors, or a classic California-style meal, Pacific Beach has a spot that will satisfy your cravings and make your journey worthwhile. Enjoy the culinary delights of Pacific Beach, where every meal is a discovery and every dish tells the story of this scenic locale.

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