Best Casual Restaurants in Imperial Beach

57 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Brigantine - Imperial Beach restaurant

1. Brigantine - Imperial Beach

4.5

Awesome(16)

Price: Moderate

• Seafood • Imperial Beach

Booked 4 times today

A San Diego tradition since 1969, the Brigantine has received numerous accolades during our 40+ year history: "BEST SEAFOOD", "BEST CASUAL SEAFOOD", "BEST HAPPY HOUR", and even "BEST SWORDFISH IN THE WORLD", according to USA Today - just to name a few.Located across the street from the Imperial Beach Pier, this Brigantine features a casual yet intimate open-air concept with indoor and outdoor seats. Catch the sunset from almost any seat. Seafood and Steak. Great Happy Hour Sunday thru Friday 3-6pm.

2. La Bella's

4.4

Awesome(237)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Chula Vista / Bonita

Booked 5 times today

La Bella`s is known as "Where People Meet to Eat" is San Diego South Bay, Enjoy Italian Recipes handed down from Papa & Kitty at the Original La Bella's since 1955.At La Bella Café & Games next door, Reserve banquet table with No Cover Fee, for a special request to Reserve for 15 Guests or More will require a $1 per per person cover fee for 2 1/2 hour reservation, You can add time to your Event after Dining by enjoying the Billiards & Arcade Area, & Your Guests may Buy their Own Craft Brews & Fine Wines too! Reservation time may be extended by coordinate the Host, by releasing any unused tables toward the end of your event, La Bella`s offers Family Style Dinners & Our popular dishes in 4 quart Catering Trays.Events please call the Maitre D' at 619-426-8820 to confirm availability & cover fee.

3. Callie Restaurant

4.8

Exceptional(172)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mediterranean • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 43 times today

Callie represents Chef Travis Swikard's debut solo project after spending a decade working alongside the esteemed Chef Daniel Boulud in New York City. The restaurant’s name, "Callie," comes from the Greek word "kallos," meaning "the most beautiful," and embodies its blend of Mediterranean cuisine with local ingredients and terroir, from sea to land from San Diego, Swikard's hometown. In 2022, Callie was acclaimed as one of America's top new restaurants by Esquire and Robb Report, and received both a Bib Gourmand and a Plate from the Michelin Guide. Callie is a dedicated supporter of Feeding San Diego, having contributed over 1 million meals to those in need in San Diego since its launch. Swikard is set to open his second restaurant in La Jolla in 2025.

4. Buona Forchetta

4.6

Exceptional(840)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • South Park

Booked 50 times today

Buona Forchetta started in 2011 as a craving of Matteo’s to bring some of his native Italy to our adopted home of South Park. We found the perfect corner and built the perfect oven. Since then, we’ve strived to deliver an exceptional and authentic Italian experience to our customers keeping our focus on the simple recipes that Matteo grew up on. We owe a huge “grazie” to our neighbors who have joined us on this awesome journey, and we hope that you will continue to be part of our story.

5. AKA San Diego

new

3.2

Good(27)

Price: Expensive

• Asian • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 49 times today

Located in the bustling heart of Gaslamp, San Diego, AKA is more than just a restaurant. It’s a destination where exceptional food, craft cocktails, and an energetic nightlife converge. With a menu curated by renowned Chef Takuya Kudo, AKA offers a captivating fusion of Chinese, Japanese, and Thai culinary traditions, all crafted with fresh ingredients and innovative techniques. The venue features a vibrant atmosphere complemented by artisanal craft cocktails from mixologist Gerardo Bedolla and striking design by Cassandra Builer. AKA welcomes guests to indulge in its exquisite dishes while enjoying electrifying entertainment. Committed to transforming the dining and nightlife scene in San Diego, AKA offers a unique and unforgettable experience for everyone looking to savor gourmet cuisine, sip on craft cocktails, and dance the night away.

A photo of Ironside Fish & Oyster restaurant

6. Ironside Fish & Oyster

4.4

Awesome(4529)

Price: Moderate

• Seafood • Little Italy

Booked 88 times today

Little Italy was built by the fishing industry. Ironside attempts to continue that narrative. It's our contemporary interpretation of the classic fish house and oyster bar. Located in a historic auction house on India St we did a full comprehensive restoration of the building, with three open-air culinary hubs featuring an expansive raw bar, chefs table, and bakery. We tried to be mindful of the past while looking towards the future. A 4% surcharge will be added to all guest checks.Ironside is now taking reservations for patio and dining room seating. We are now offering Happy Hour MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY FROM 3:00PM - 5:00PM.

A photo of Brigantine at Portside Pier restaurant

7. Brigantine at Portside Pier

4.7

Exceptional(4178)

Price: Expensive

• Seafood • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 96 times today

The Brigantine is more than just home to some of San Diego’s finest seafood. It’s a place where locals and visitors alike come to share a lively atmosphere and authentic sense of community. The Morton family opened the first Brigantine on Shelter Island in 1969, with a vision that embraced the beach town lifestyle, a dedication to flavorful food, and a passion for friendly service. Today, we’re known far and wide for our San Diego-style surf and turf. From our award-winning fish tacos and freshly shucked oysters, to classic filet mignon or our perpetually best-selling marinated grilled swordfish. Always prepared to exceed expectations, and served with a smile. You can stop in at any neighborhood Brigantine and get a taste of the local flavor, from regionally inspired specials, to custom cocktails and home town craft beers. At the Brigantine we make first timers feel like regulars, and consider regulars part of the family. So come by often, and share our taste for life.

8. Civico 1845

4.4

Awesome(2389)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Little Italy

Booked 32 times today

A new generation of Italian cuisine - fresh, light and authentic. By using proper cooking techniques, our flavors are natural and pure. Our menu is a homage to our region Calabria and southern Italian roots reflecting what is being served in Italy today. You can also find an extensive vegan menu that incorporates many of the best Italian dishes. We have been the first restaurant in the USA to have a full Italian Vegan menu since 2015! We believe in sustainability, both in our food and in the design of our restaurant. While our menu focuses on locally grown and seasonal ingredients, our bar and dining areas were created using reclaimed, natural materials. Nothing goes to waste at Civico 1845!

9. Ciccia Osteria

4.7

Exceptional(143)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Barrio Logan

Booked 35 times today

Nestled in Barrio Logan, San Diego, Ciccia Osteria is a charming Italian restaurant that invites guests on a culinary journey through Italy. With its warm ambiance, attentive service, and exquisite cuisine, Ciccia Osteria is a beloved destination. Notably, it has won the Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024Entering Ciccia Osteria, guests are transported to Italy's bustling trattorias. The cozy interior, with small tables, exposed brick walls, and soft lighting, creates an intimate atmosphere perfect for any occasion.Committed to the finest ingredients and traditional techniques, Ciccia Osteria offers handmade pastas, succulent seafood, and tender meats, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience. The curated wine list features Italian and California wines to pair with the menu.Under Chef Mario Cassineri's guidance, Ciccia Osteria is more than a restaurant—it's a destination where guests can savor authentic Italian cuisine and create lasting memories.

A photo of Saint James French Diner restaurant

10. Saint James French Diner

4.5

Awesome(222)

Price: Expensive

• French American • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 18 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.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

K
Katie
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
First timer and thought it was not only a fun atmosphere but great food & great service. The bar area is a great place to have a casual dinner & some delicious drinks. Next time I’ll try out the dining area for more of an intimate experience. 10/10 recommend!
More info
AKA San DiegoPrice: Expensive• Asian• Downtown / Gaslamp
•
3.2
L
Larryvip
San Diego •34 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
i’ve dined here eight or 10 times over the years just brought someone new last night and he raved about the entire experience: food service creativity. We got the tasting menu and as usual the Alna and the Kampachi were huge hits early on. The subtlety combined with sharp notes took what could otherwise be very straightforward and made them rich. It was all excellent but as usual the Leppo chicken is Callie’s feathering the cap for that experience. Why doesn’t have a Michelin star is beyond me? Perhaps it’s the more casual approach to dining, but the food is easily Michelin quality for my taste by far away the best food in San Diego south of Addison
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Callie RestaurantPrice: Very Expensive• Mediterranean• Downtown / Gaslamp
•
4.8
D
Danielvip
San Diego •11 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
charming place with consistently excellent food at reasonable prices.
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Buona ForchettaPrice: Moderate• Italian• South Park
•
4.6
B
Briana
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
My experience at the Brig was amazing ! My family and I have eaten at this place before but this time around was the best! Not that I’m saying anything bad about this place from pst experience, it’s always been up to par, however it was my birthday and they brought such a joy to the night. I was greeted by a lady name Jackie I believe that was her name and she was filled with such a light and sat us right away! Matt was our waiter and took care of us always checked up on us made sure everything was great! Shoutout to Matt and Jackie they were awesome! Food was also amazing !
More info
Brigantine - Imperial BeachPrice: Moderate• Seafood• Imperial Beach
•
4.5
S
Sally
San Diego •3 reviews
5.0
Dined on 9 Nov 2024
We ordered the wings and large pizza with pepperoni and sausage. It was soooooo goooddd!!!!!
More info
La Bella'sPrice: Moderate• Italian• Chula Vista / Bonita
•
4.4

Best Casual Restaurants in Imperial Beach

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57 restaurants available nearby

1. Brigantine - Imperial Beach

2. La Bella's

3. Callie Restaurant

4. Buona Forchetta

5. AKA San Diego

6. Ironside Fish & Oyster

7. Brigantine at Portside Pier

8. Civico 1845

9. Ciccia Osteria

10. Saint James French Diner

See what locals rave about

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