Lounge Bar Restaurants

Where Guinness flows, good times follow; and Dublin Square serves up both in abundance. Built in Ireland and transplanted to the Gaslamp Quarter of downtown San Diego, this authentic Irish pub satisfies appetites and souls with the warm and welcoming spread of Irish culture and fare. If food and drink is what you’re pining for, look to Dublin Square’s menu any time of day. Come for their daily breakfast and enjoy dishes like the Corned Beef Hash and Eggs or the All Day Irish Breakfast that includes black and white pudding. For lunch, dinner, and everything in between, many crave … Learn More »

Established by a former navy seal in 1982, McP’s Irish Pub & Grill remains one of San Diego’s most authentic Irish Pubs. Located on Coronado’s Orange Avenue, McP’s hosts live music nightly and makes guests feel as if they are sitting in an old pub on the Irish countryside. The ambiance is laid back and invites patrons to raise a glass or two to those who have served our country. Their menu features a wide variety of selections including a kids menu. Mc P’s now also serves breakfast on Sunday mornings and hosts sporting events as well. Learn More »

With its intimate, reserved, and romantic ambiance and soft floral palette décor, Primavera strives to provide each guest with a sense of being on vacation while dining. Situated between shops and cafes on Coronado’s Orange Avenue, Primavera brings a little bit of Italian culinary heaven to us right here in San Diego. The restaurant’s menu is loaded with color and flavor from appetizers to desserts. They also have nightly seafood specials along with an extensive menu of entrées and a great selection of pastas, salads, chicken, and meat. Primavera’s extensive wine list contains an assortment of choices suited to pair … Learn More »

Café Sevilla delivers the warmth and culture of Southern Spain locally, with a casually elegant atmosphere and authentic cuisine. Café Sevilla offers traditional Spanish items like pitchers of sangria, a wide selection of tapas, and large paella platters which make it an excellent location for small groups. Theatrical Flamenco dinner shows are offered weekly and lively guitarists play Gypsy Rhumba and Latin music each night in the tapas bar. The restaurant has been a San Diego favorite for more than 20 years and a recent move has put their new location in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter. The décor, … Learn More »

While it may be physically impossible to bring a Florentine trattoria to San Diego, Chef and Owner Martin Gonzalez has come remarkably close. Acqua Al 2 is the sister restaurant of the original Acqua Al 2, located on the Via della Vigna Vecchia in Florence. Using the same menu, recipes, and cooking techniques, Acqua Al 2 offers authentic Tuscan-style dining right in the heart of San Diego’s Gaslamp district. The charming ambiance hints of old world Italy, while the aromatic and flavorful dishes exude authenticity. Anyone considering an escape to Italy should first pay a visit to this local favorite. Learn More »

Beyond the heavy glass doors of De Medici lies a wonderland of delight and extravagance. Once inside, wrapped in the cozy embrace of one of the booths, guests are welcomed to linger over an amazing meal and absorb an evening of tantalizing experiences. Under the insistence of owner Salavatore Vitale, many of the signature dishes are still created table-side. The soft rosy glow and intimate ambiance of the dining room is punctuated by the bright flashes of flambéing Bananas Foster and Steak Diane. Specializing in both Northern and Southern Italian cuisine, Chef Ricardo Macias charms the palates of many with … Learn More »

What started off with an Eric Clapton Fender guitar being hung up in a quirky London bar to “hold” his table, turned into a world-wide phenomenon where food, memorabilia and music mix. Downtown in the heart of the Gaslamp District, the Hard Rock Café covers its walls in clothing from Elvis Presley, Stevie Nicks and Gwen Stefani while whisking out American fare from the kitchen. Familiar rock acoustics are pumped out of the reasonably priced restaurant’s speaker system and the exceptional appetizers are a good lead into classic entrees. The openers at the Café are Hickory Smoked Chicken Wings, Potato … Learn More »

George’s Ocean Terrace reminds us all that there’s a big difference between eating outside and dining seaside. Occupying prime rooftop real estate upstairs from George’s California Modern, Ocean Terrace invites guests to settle in for a casual yet inspired experience of breathtaking views, invigorating libations, off-the-docks fresh seafood, and from the farm tantalizing entrees. Executive Chef and partner Trey Foshee handles his menu with care and discretion, emphasizing fresh and locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that each ingredient complements the overall flavor profile of the dish. Given that La Jolla boasts practically picture-perfect weather all year long, it makes sense that … Learn More »

CLOSED - This location has closed. Please visit the Gaslamp location. After the recent move from its UTC location, La Jolla's premier steakhouse is now overlooking the famous La Jolla Cove. In addition to picturesque views, Donovan’s Steak and Chop house offers a refined setting filled with upscale class and elegance. The menu showcases a variety of cuts of succulent USDA Prime steak, while offering a variety of other options from Australian rack of lamb to North Atlantic Salmon. Appetizers and salads tantalize the palate before the main course, while potatoes and vegetables—always complimentary—accompany each entrée. An award-winning wine list … Learn More »

Perched atop an ocean bluff, Crab Catcher in La Jolla overlooks Seals Beach, a little sublet that thousands of tourists come by to visit annually. With a spectacular view and sensational food that is procured straight from the sea, Crab Catcher serves only the best fresh dishes. Keeping to the 100-mile radius philosophy, Chef Jon Burwell hires local commercial fishermen and harvests only the freshest ingredients from local farms and farmers markets to create the kind of dishes that will project surprise and wonder onto diner’s faces. With that in mind, the relaxed and quiet ambiance of Crab Catcher creates … Learn More »

McFadden’s Saloon proves that St. Patrick’s Day is a year-round celebration. Already a staple on the East Coast, the “Wildest Irish Pub on Earth” brings the luck of the Irish out west. The fun never stops at this Gaslamp Quarter locale with its expansive main tavern, HD TVs playing every sporting event imaginable, and oversized mahogany bar. McFadden’s is host to a variety of special affairs from Board Game Night to nightly Karaoke. Step outside the vibrant interior onto McFadden’s 2,200 square foot patio and relax under the sun at the separate private bar. A selection of semi- private rooms … Learn More »

Italian rusticity meets modern sophistication at Baci Ristorante, where an Old World appreciation for quality and service marries seamlessly with contemporary style and warmth. The rich, mahogany bar sets an elegant yet unassuming tone, while the classic Italian cuisine menu showcases the brilliance of fresh seafood, succulent meat, and rich accompaniments. Dine in the subtly modern dining room surrounded by art deco accents and crisp white linens, or dine al fresco on the romantic patio. No matter where you sit, a decadent and satisfying meal is sure to be had. Learn More »

With one of the most extensive menus in town, sure to please even the pickiest of palates, The Cheesecake Factory genuinely has something for everyone at your table. This landmark restaurant prides itself on hospitality and delectable menu items that are both sweet and savory. The restaurant has established itself as the go-to spot for large parties and big celebrations as well as a romantic date for two. Cheesecake Factory’s ambiance combines the hustle and bustle of the city with the quiet intimacy of a corner bistro. Ultimately renowned for their long list of signature cheesecakes, generous portions, and comfortably … Learn More »

Pacifica Del Mar reflects the soothing calm of its ocean location. Perched high atop the Del Mar Plaza, the sophisticated restaurant offers a stunning visual Pacific feast to accompany Chef Christopher Idso’s delightful gastronomic feats. The menu features elegant California-inspired creations that manage to be both light and clean, while still imparting a deep satisfaction. Mouthwatering options like the Barbecued Sugar-Spiced Salmon with Chinese beans and mustard sauce, Moroccan Spiced Prawns, and Filet Mignon with potato-white cheddar gratin, make for delightful dining dilemmas. Sample from Pacifica Del Mar’s Wine Spectator-distinguished wine list to help make the decision-making process that much … Learn More »

Jake’s Del Mar is a classic waterfront grill, situated right on the beach in the picturesque town of Del Mar, and has become one of San Diego's best loved restaurants. Floor to ceiling windows provide dramatic panoramas of the breaking surf. Lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunches all showcase California coastal cuisine and Chef Dustin Anselm remains focused on serving classic dishes prepared with a creative twist. The restaurant’s genuine, friendly service and delicious menu makes for a relaxed atmosphere that is a favorite among locals and tourists alike . The bar offers a special bistro menu specializing in more casual … Learn More »

Sit at a table at Firenze Trattoria and let yourself be transported to Italy. The quaint Italian restaurant, tucked in the hills of Encinitas, seems worlds away from the bustle of San Diego. Whether you choose to dine on the soothing outdoor patio or calm, or inside the elegant interior dining room, you are sure to feel at ease. The cuisine is as authentic as the space, with an extensive menu of savory Italian fare including alluring pastas and risottos, fresh, flavorful fish, and tempting house specialties such as Veal Scaloppini, Chicken Piccata, and Eggplant Parmesan. An extensive, Italian-centric wine … Learn More »

Is this a movie set or restaurant? While dining at The Beach House in Cardiff, the shore is just inches from you. Dine on abundant seafood, steak or chops. The wine list is extensive, cocktails priced reasonably, and happy hour is every day. Diners of all ages fill this restaurant because the menu offers new twists on classics, contemporary flavors and fresh ingredients. Dine on dishes like Herb Roasted Half Chicken, Lobster Tail & Filet Mignon, Pacific Mahi Mahi, or Baby Back Ribs. They also feature small plates, a children's menu, home made desserts, and a weekend champagne brunch. But … Learn More »

BJ's Restaurant & Brew House serves a menu of American Classics alongside fresh, handcrafted beers in a casual, lively atmosphere. One of many BJ's locations nation-wide, the restaurant follows in the traditions of the first BJ's, which opened in 1978 as a Chicago Pizzaria in Santa Ana California. Their menu features options for pasta dishes, pizza, burgers, salads, soup, sandwiches, not to mention beer, wine, and cocktails. They even feature a gluten-free menu, curbside takeout, and online ordering options. As for their hand crafted beers, BJ's is known for their unique brews they serve in house, such as BJ's Brewhouse … Learn More »