Best Southern American Restaurants in Carmel Valley

52 restaurants available nearby

A photo of South of Nick's - Del Mar restaurant

1. South of Nick's - Del Mar

4.7

Exceptional(589)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Del Mar

Booked 58 times today

South of Nick's in Del Mar, San Diego, is a gem for those seeking authentic American cuisine with a Southern California twist. Renowned for its seamless blend of classic Mexican flavors with prime steaks and seafood, this restaurant promises an unforgettable dining experience. Patrons rave about the "delicious food and wonderful service," with dishes like the steak salad and seafood enchiladas receiving high praise. The ambiance is consistently described as great, with a "beautiful decor" that complements the high-quality meals. Whether it's the complimentary chips and salsa, the finely crafted margaritas, or the attentive service, South of Nick's stands out as a top choice for both locals and visitors. It's no wonder guests are eager to return, making it a "new favorite" in the vibrant San Diego dining scene.

2. Jake's Del Mar

4.8

Exceptional(10379)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Del Mar

Booked 102 times today

At Jake's Del Mar, located right on the shore of Del Mar, guests are treated to an exceptional seafood dining experience that epitomizes California's coastal charm. The restaurant is celebrated for its "chef-driven California coastal fare" that includes fresh, high-quality seafood dishes, crafted to perfection. Reviews consistently praise the seafood offerings, with one diner raving about the "amazing mussels and seafood pot," describing it as a highlight of their dining experience. Another guest highlighted the "scallops and sea bass," noting them as "delicious," showcasing Jake's commitment to serving top-notch seafood. The combination of stunning ocean views, attentive service, and mouthwatering seafood makes Jake’s Del Mar a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic and delightful seafood meal.

A photo of Addison By William Bradley restaurant

3. Addison By William Bradley

4.8

Exceptional(1884)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Del Mar

Booked 9 times today

Addison Restaurant in Del Mar, San Diego, is a true gem in the realm of Californian cuisine. As Southern California's first three-star Michelin establishment, it exemplifies culinary excellence with Chef William Bradley at the helm. In a setting that captures the essence of California's picturesque landscapes, Addison serves a ten-course tasting menu that celebrates local ingredients with a flair of global sophistication. Patrons rave about the "unmatched culinary experience" and the "impeccable service" that elevate the dining to a memorable event. According to one enthusiast, "It's like nothing you ever had before," underscoring the innovative approach to each dish. The restaurant's commitment to a refined dining experience is evident in its meticulous attention to detail, from the selection of rare champagnes to the 10,000 bottle wine program that perfectly complements the gastronomical journey. Addison is not just a meal; it's a transcendent celebration of Californian gastronomy at its best.

4. Poseidon

4.8

Exceptional(5567)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Del Mar

Booked 50 times today

Poseidon in Del Mar offers an unparalleled American dining experience, where the flavors burst with freshness and authenticity. Diners rave about the diverse menu, highlighting the "Lobster Avocado Bennie" and "Surf & Turf Omelet" for brunch, and the "Sesame Crusted Yellowfin Tuna" for dinner as absolute must-tries. The restaurant skillfully pairs classic American dishes with a scenic beachfront location, promising "breathtaking views" and a "beautiful experience," as noted by satisfied guests. Regulars and newcomers alike are consistently impressed, describing meals as "excellent" and service as "impeccable." Poseidon is not just a meal; it's a cherished dining ritual in Del Mar, celebrated for its commitment to quality and the delightful marriage of cuisine and setting.

5. The Pony Room

4.8

Exceptional(1475)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Rancho Santa Fe

Booked 50 times today

The Pony Room in Rancho Santa Fe stands as a beacon of American cuisine, offering a stellar array of comfort classics that resonate with authenticity and culinary craftsmanship. Esteemed for its "exceptional experience with both the food and service hitting the mark perfectly," this local gem encapsulates the spirit of Southern California with its hand-crafted, seasonally inspired cocktails and impressive wine list. Diners rave about dishes like the "delicious" fried chicken, hailed as a comfort-style meal, and the seafood Louie salad, described as "just the best." With live music every night and a vibrant atmosphere, The Pony Room is not just a meal, it’s an event, promising an unforgettable dining experience where "the food is always amazing" and the ambiance consistently "beautiful."

6. Pacifica Del Mar

4.5

Awesome(4835)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Del Mar

Booked 24 times today

Nestled in the picturesque Del Mar Plaza, Pacifica Del Mar shines as a beacon of exceptional seafood dining. Diners rave about the "tremendous taste and texture" of dishes like the celebrated Halibut and the Spanish Octopus on Squid Ink Risotto. The freshness and quality of the seafood are consistently highlighted, with one guest recommending, "Try the Halibut. It's delicious!" The restaurant's ambiance enhances the dining experience, offering stunning ocean views that complement the "extraordinary food." With accolades for both its vibrant atmosphere and impeccable service, Pacifica Del Mar stands out as a must-visit destination for seafood lovers in Del Mar.

A photo of The Grill at The Lodge at Torrey Pines restaurant

7. The Grill at The Lodge at Torrey Pines

4.6

Exceptional(2323)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • La Jolla

Booked 35 times today

The Grill at The Lodge at Torrey Pines in La Jolla, San Diego, epitomizes the essence of farm-to-table cuisine with its commitment to locally sourced ingredients and wood-fired specialties. Nestled in a scenic resort, the restaurant offers a menu that celebrates the bounty of Southern California, with patrons raving about the "best hamburger I have ever had" and the freshness of dishes like the avocado toast. The inviting ambiance, complete with stunning views and cozy fire pits, enhances the dining experience, making each meal not just a feast for the palate but also a moment to cherish. Reviewers consistently praise the delicious, slow-cooked menu items and the attentive service, affirming The Grill's status as a top destination for authentic farm-to-table dining.

8. Sbicca - Del Mar

4.5

Awesome(2510)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Del Mar

Booked 12 times today

Nestled in the charming locale of Del Mar, Sbicca is a gem that epitomizes the essence of Contemporary American cuisine. Praised as San Diego's favorite "Neighborhood" restaurant, Sbicca has been honored with the "Gold Medallion Award" for Best Neighborhood Restaurant. Patrons can savor their meals on an ocean view deck, enhancing the dining experience with breathtaking views of the Pacific. The menu boasts an array of delectable options, from the divine truffle fries to the exquisite buttermilk fried chicken, consistently earning glowing reviews like "The best food that we've had in a long time." Sbicca's commitment to quality and its vibrant atmosphere make it a standout destination for authentic Contemporary American fare, ensuring a memorable dining experience with every visit.

A photo of West End Bar & Kitchen restaurant

9. West End Bar & Kitchen

4.7

Exceptional(974)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Del Mar

Booked 9 times today

West End Bar & Kitchen in Del Mar is a haven for those seeking authentic American cuisine with a contemporary twist. Situated across from the stunning lagoon at Torrey Pines State Reserve, this restaurant offers a true 'melting pot' of flavors that embody the spirit of American dining. Guests rave about the "best values" and "large portions" that never fail to impress, such as the "fantastic" Halibut special and the "best clam chowder" many have ever had. The blend of casual professionalism and a scenic view provides a perfect backdrop for enjoying their extensive selection of handcrafted cocktails and local craft beers. With its consistent praise for great food and service, West End is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience top-notch American fare.

A photo of Gravity Heights Sorrento Valley restaurant

10. Gravity Heights Sorrento Valley

4.7

Exceptional(1184)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Sorrento Mesa

Booked 30 times today

Nestled in the vibrant Sorrento Mesa of San Diego, Gravity Heights is not just a restaurant; it's a celebration of exceptional Beer Garden cuisine. This beloved local spot shines with its "expansive and lush outdoor beer garden" where patrons are treated to a stellar array of craft beers alongside mouth-watering dishes. Gravity Heights consistently earns rave reviews for both its atmosphere and quality. Enthusiastic patrons often mention the "great brew, great food," and the exceptional service that defines every visit. It’s the perfect mix of relaxation and culinary delight, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to savor the authentic Beer Garden experience in San Diego.

‘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.

Explore OpenTable

Carmel Valley

Southern american

Best Southern American Restaurants in Carmel Valley

Price

Regions

Areas

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating options

Award-winning

Accessibility

52 restaurants available nearby

1. South of Nick's - Del Mar

2. Jake's Del Mar

3. Addison By William Bradley

4. Poseidon

5. The Pony Room

6. Pacifica Del Mar

7. The Grill at The Lodge at Torrey Pines

8. Sbicca - Del Mar

9. West End Bar & Kitchen

10. Gravity Heights Sorrento Valley

Explore OpenTable