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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Imperial Beach

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16 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Farmer's Table - Chula Vista restaurant
4.2
Awesome(374)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Chula Vista / Bonita
Booked 3 times today
Farmer's Table in Chula Vista stands out as a gem for those seeking top-notch Contemporary Italian cuisine. This family-run establishment harmoniously blends farm-to-fork principles with the sophistication of Italian cooking, creating dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition. Reviews consistently praise their offerings, like the "Black Ink Squid Spaghetti Pasta," described as a "singular and remarkable dining experience" and the "Spaghetti Carbonara," noted for being "creamy, flavorful, and just like what you'd find in Italy." Patrons are enchanted by the ambiance and the dedication to locally-sourced, organic ingredients, ensuring every meal is not just eaten but savored. Whether it's a magical brunch or a cozy dinner, Farmer's Table delivers an authentic slice of Italy right in the heart of Chula Vista.
A photo of Cowboy Star restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(4723)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 41 times today
Cowboy Star in the vibrant heart of Downtown San Diego epitomizes the essence of Contemporary American cuisine with a wild-west twist. Celebrated for its dedication to regional heirloom recipes and superior service, Cowboy Star stands out for its use of local, natural, and organic ingredients, ensuring every dish sings with authenticity and freshness. The menu showcases exceptional dishes, such as the Niman Ranch all-natural beef, earning it rave reviews for the "best steak in SD" and a culinary experience that is both genuine and heartwarming. Diners consistently praise the "excellent vibe" and "impeccable service," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking the pinnacle of Contemporary American dining in San Diego.
A photo of Coco Maya restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(374)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Little Italy
Booked 2 times today
Coco Maya in Little Italy, San Diego, is a delightful revelation in Contemporary American cuisine, offering a creative twist on classic American fare. The restaurant's use of a traditional Spanish-style coal-fired Josper oven brings a unique flavor profile to robust, flavorful proteins, setting it apart in a neighborhood rich with culinary offerings. Reviewers rave about the diverse menu, highlighting dishes like the "delicious" short rib pasta and "amazing" skirt steak. The ambiance, enhanced by sweeping views of Little Italy and a vibrant rooftop setting, is consistently praised. It’s not just the food that receives acclaim; the cocktail program, featuring a diverse mezcal and tequila selection, is also a highlight. Visitors describe their dining experience as “unforgettable,” noting the "fun atmosphere" and exceptional service that make Coco Maya a must-visit spot in San Diego.
A photo of Tavern restaurant
4.5
Awesome(757)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Coronado
Booked 14 times today
Tavern, nestled in the charming neighborhood of Coronado, excels in offering an exceptional Comfort Food experience that locals and visitors alike rave about. Known for its cozy ambiance reminiscent of an old Irish pub, Tavern delivers dishes that are both heartwarming and mouthwatering. Patrons particularly praise the "delicious Cavatappi Mac & Cheese with bacon on top" and the "tender, perfectly cooked pork belly tostadas." The service is consistently noted as friendly and attentive, with reviews often highlighting the excellent staff. Whether it's the "amazing churros with hot chocolate dip" or the creatively crafted cocktails, Tavern ensures a memorable dining experience that keeps guests returning for more.
A photo of Bluewater Boathouse Seafood Grill restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1411)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Coronado
Booked 45 times today
At Bluewater Boathouse Seafood Grill in Coronado, a seafood experience awaits that is as authentic as it is delightful. Nestled in a historic, picturesque setting by Glorietta Bay, diners rave about the "best swordfish EVER" and the "amazing" seared scallops appetizers. The menu is celebrated for its variety and freshness, with guests frequently complimenting dishes like the miso sea bass that "melted in your mouth" and the rich, flavorful clam chowder paired with fresh sourdough. The ambiance, coupled with "excellent service," creates a perfect backdrop for enjoying top-tier seafood. Whether it's a casual meal or a special occasion, Bluewater Boathouse promises a memorable dining experience with every visit.
A photo of Topside Terrace restaurant
4.0
Excellent(385)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Gaslamp
Topside Terrace, nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown San Diego, is a celebrated destination for those seeking the finest in Contemporary American cuisine. This open-air terrace blends the essence of coastal living with the urban charm of San Diego, offering a delightful array of Baja California and classic American fare. Guests rave about the "incredible rooftop brunch experience" and the "delicious wagyu slider and beet salad," highlighting the quality and creativity of the dishes. With glowing reviews like "delicious food, efficient service, live music and awesome San Diego weather, you can't go wrong," it's clear that Topside Terrace provides not just a meal, but a spectacular dining experience. Whether you're enjoying a lively evening under the heaters or a sunny brunch with live chill music, Topside Terrace promises a memorable culinary journey.
A photo of Chez Loma restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1763)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Coronado
Booked 13 times today
Chez Loma, nestled in the historic Carez Hizar House in Coronado, offers a French culinary experience that is both authentic and delightful. Celebrated for its "exceptional flavors" and "creative entrees," this bistro sources local ingredients to craft dishes that resonate with freshness and quality. Diners rave about the "best ever" lobster ravioli and the "perfectly cooked" roast duck, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to excellence. As one review puts it, Chez Loma is "experience dining at its best," making it a must-visit for those seeking a genuine taste of French cuisine in a charming and inviting setting.
A photo of Bronze Bird restaurant
4.1
Excellent(136)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 5 times today
Bronze Bird in Downtown San Diego is your go-to destination for soul-satisfying Comfort Food. Nestled in The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, this eatery offers a casual yet refined atmosphere where every dish speaks volumes about its quality and authenticity. Patrons rave about the "amazing" steak frites and the "perfectly seasoned" ribeye, highlighting the culinary craft that Bronze Bird delivers. A diner enthused, "The burger here was amazing, one of the best hidden gems in San Diego," underscoring the restaurant's commitment to providing top-notch comfort dishes. Whether it's a pre-theater dinner or a casual meal, Bronze Bird's delightful array of entrées and shareables, complemented by exemplary service, makes it a standout choice for anyone craving hearty, comforting cuisine in a vibrant setting. Join the chorus of satisfied guests who assure, "We will definitely be back!"
A photo of Grant Grill restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1612)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 15 times today
Grant Grill, nestled in the heart of Downtown San Diego, offers a truly remarkable dining experience with its focus on Contemporary American cuisine. Since opening its doors in 1951, this iconic spot has been celebrated for its "exquisite" food and "superb" service. Diners rave about dishes like the "out of this world" mock turtle soup and perfectly seared ahi, emphasizing the grill's commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients. The ambiance, described as "perfect for our dinner date," complements the culinary delights, making every meal memorable. Whether it's the innovative libations or the "party in our mouths" flavors, Grant Grill stands out as a pinnacle of dining excellence in San Diego.
A photo of The Desmond restaurant
4.5
Awesome(149)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Gaslamp
We're California born and bred. Best in the world? Yeah. We’ve got that. These are year-round farms. Lifelong fishermen. Orchards that thrive well beyond the fall. Our ingredients here in Southern California are the very best, and we treat them with the respect that they deserve. Join us for an experience that showcases the best of the bounty, with flavors that are truly memorable.
‘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.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Barryvip
    San Francisco Bay Area •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Great service and seating around the chef counter was a bonus. You can see all the cooking action right in front of you. The wagyu carpaccio was the highlight of the night. It just melts in your mouth. The organic pear salad was also great for sharing. However the aged duck breast and the dry-aged bone in ribeye had some tendons and chewy parts that is unable to swallow.
    More info
    Cowboy StarPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Downtown / Gaslamp
    4.9
  • JAMES
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We were seated immediately. The table they sat us at was great and very comfortable. The food was excellent but the real star was our server Mandy. She went the extra mile to make our anniversary dinner special and memorable. It was a great experience.
    More info
    Kettner ExchangePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
    4.7
  • Caroline
    San Diego •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Beautiful restaurant inside. I rated three stars for food only because there were scant few vegetarian and vegan items. Those were basically side orders. There is not one salad available as an option. The other four people in our party that ordered meat meals really enjoyed their food. I also ranked 4 for noise because the only table available was outside, which is next to another restaurant that had their own music playing. I think if you requested a table inside, it would be perfect. I ordered a martini and it was average And very small. We ordered the s’mores for dessert (And there is actually a vegan option with a vegan marshmallow) But they didn’t really Taste like s’mores. The presentation was lovely though, although not real effective grilling your own marshmallow over tiny coals. I would definitely go back if the Restaurant would provide some actual vegan meals.
    More info
    CampfirePrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Carlsbad
    4.7
  • Lynnvip
    Grand Rapids / Western Michigan •54 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    We were greeted nicely. I fell down on the way to the restaurant and hurt my finger. The restaurant staff offered me a bandaid and some cream. They also checked on me during our meal! That’s an excellent compliment to them! Thank you so much!
    More info
    Great Maple San DiegoPrice: Moderate• American• Hillcrest
    4.8
  • OpenTable Diner
    Dallas - Fort Worth •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 14 Apr 2024
    Service was amazing! My 4 year old enjoyed the food.
    More info
    Farmer's Table - Chula VistaPrice: Moderate• American• Chula Vista / Bonita
    4.2
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