Outdoor Seating Restaurants

Set on San Diego's beautiful Shelter Island, Vessel features a robust menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner served in a unique, contemporary setting. Diners flock for the spectacular panoramic marina view, in addition to the casual, informal atmosphere and great food. The menu offers a wide range of entrées inspired by Californian, American, and Polynesian cuisines. Fresh fish and seafood are their specialty; flying in buttery scallops from Maine and cooking locally caught Mahi-Mahi. Take in the mild sea breezes on the waterfront patio during breakfast or relax while the sun sets in the comfortable, inviting, and fun atmosphere. Learn More »

A contemporary, glamorous place to dine, the Grant Grill presents an extraordinary display of modern cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and an elegance that permeates the restaurant’s décor and atmosphere. Originally opened in 1951, the Grant Grill’s historical significance as a “Power Lunch” spot is well-known throughout San Diego. A must-have at this legendary establishment is the Mock Turtle Soup, a staple since the doors opened. The creative California cuisine created by Chef de Cuisine, John Duran, features innovative and seasonal selections. A 3, 4, or 5 Course Tasting Menu with an optional wine pairing is available for those looking to sample … Learn More »

Picture a romantic retreat in the French countryside where days conclude with glowing fireplaces and elegant meals, and you will have the essence of Mille Fleurs. The restaurant, which is located on a small estate off a windy road in Rancho Santa Fe, offers a warm and charming atmosphere that plays host to stunning haute cuisine. Chef Martin Wosele’s menu, which changes daily, delicately melds European culinary traditions with local California ingredients. The result is sensational and exquisite fine dining which, as evidenced by numerous awards and national recognition, makes Mille Fleurs one of the most significant dining establishments in … Learn More »

The North Park neighborhood of San Diego is quickly becoming the welcomed alternative to downtown, with high-quality and hip joints popping up all the time. Toronado is one of those places that have gained quite the local fan base for its staggering selection of craft beers on tap, and its satisfying menu of fresh and tasty pub fare. Toronado boasts a refreshingly casual, roll-up-your-sleeves atmosphere where the enjoyment of fine drink and food takes precedence. In fact, freshness and quality is so important to the Toronado crew that the drink and food menus are updated daily to ensure guests savor … 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 »

While hidden from the road in the La Jolla UTC area, Cafe Japengo should not be missed. The upscale restaurant offers what is consistently dubbed the best sushi in San Diego as well as inventive Pacific Rim Cuisine. Executive Chef Jay Payne excels in crafting fresh, often exotic ingredients in innovative ways, with tantalizing dishes that almost threaten to overshadow the sushi. However, with Sushi Chef Jerry Warner’s 17-year tenure, and unrivaled creativity, the fresh, inspired sushi offerings more than hold their own. Guests looking for an especially unique experience should sit at the sushi bar, where Chef Warner crafts … Learn More »

Comfortably situated right in the middle of Old Town in a converted wooden house, 25 Forty Bistro and Bakehouse offers an intimate, relaxing atmosphere for friends and couples alike. Chef Mark Peliccia of New York opened the restaurant with the intent to use fresh, seasonal produce to create innovative dishes inspired by the various cooking traditions he studied abroad. He is exceptionally passionate about pastries and desserts, which are offered throughout the day, including the Vanilla Custard Crepe and Warm Chocolate Cake. Boasting an indoor dining room and an outdoor patio for warmer evenings, the restaurant has a modern vibe … Learn More »

Delicias is a charming hidden gem in Rancho Santa Fe that offers incredible California Fresh cuisine at its finest. Just a mile and a half away from the Delicias kitchen is Chino Farms, supplying the extremely fresh produce that Executive Chef Michael Knowles finds daily to inspire his creative and delicious daily specials and classic favorites. The dining room serves as a warm, dimly lit home away from home with beautiful black chandeliers, a brick fireplace, and various seating options both inside and outside. Accompanying the menu full of fresh innovative options is an extensive wine list, as well as … Learn More »

Standing as the oldest Italian restaurant in the Gaslamp District, Osteria Panevino is no stranger to providing San Diego with authentic Tuscan cuisine. Featuring rustic, traditional and homemade dishes by Chef Vincenzo Lo Verso, this casual yet fine dining destination is defined by their cuisine and their atmosphere. With famous dishes such as Ossobuco, Lasanga Bolognese, and Ravioli, each dish is crafted from scratch in Osteria’s kitchen. The warmth and comfort of Osteria Panevino makes it a welcoming place to dine for both lunch and dinner, and when paired with fresh dishes and a selection of award-winning wines, it’s a … Learn More »

Hunting for a “little piece of Europe by the sea”, then look no further than Del Mar’s cozy restaurant wine bar, Crepes & Corks. Located along Camino Del Mar, this bistro stays open from early morning to night. The ambiance is that of romance and simplicity and be detected throughout their food and customer service. Crepes & Corks offers an extensive list of delightfully full bodied, smooth, and buttery wines. They also have dessert wines and beers and offer wine tastings! Crepes & Corks provides patrons with a little taste of Europe in the heart of this coastal town and … Learn More »

For a classic seafood experience with a laid-back attitude, look no further then The Fish Market—San Diego’s premiere destination for seafood. Located on Shelter Island below the Top of the Market Restaurant, The Fish Market features options for several types of seafood faire, including seafood cocktails, oysters, fresh filets, and sushi. You can dine while overlooking the breathtaking San Diego bay for either lunch or dinner. Since 1989, The Fish Market has been enchanting and comforting their guests with premium seafood choices and a dazzling waterfront view. Learn More »

Located in the Gaslamp Quarter of San Diego, just a stone’s throw from Petco Park, Mezè Mediterranean Grill offers a wide breadth of Mediterranean cuisine for diners in search of southern European flavors. From Greek Hummus and Falafel to the Grilled Asparagus salad inspired by southern Italian fare, dinner service runs until 11 p.m. throughout the week, and on Friday and Saturday until 12:00pm, Weekend brunch features bottomless mimosas and bloody marys with the purchase of an entree. All throughout the week, the full bar keeps things lively with signature cocktails such as the refreshing Tuscan Gimlet, the savory Dirty … Learn More »

A fanciful curtain of monsoon rain, visible through floor-to-ceiling glass doors, is a friendly greeting as guests enter the spacious and elegant dining room at Bombay restaurant. Aromas of exotic spices promise a feast of flavors. Having won awards for the “Best Vegetarian Restaurant” and “Best Indian Restaurant in San Diego”, from AOL City Guide and San Diego Magazine respectively, one can remain assured they will enjoy an authentic culinary adventure. The kitchen serves to satisfy expectations and the attentive wait staff ensures a delectable dining experience that you’ll want to repeat over and over again. Flavorful, mysterious fruit drinks … Learn More »

Elegantly decorated with white tables and splashes of lime green mixed with black trimming, Celadon is a stunningly modern Thai restaurant located in Hillcrest. An evening here promises a classy and contemporary spin on Asian cuisine, with a mixture of traditional Thai dishes and modern interpretations of Thai cuisine, with just a hint of French influence. Specialties include Larb Pla, a deep-fried whole striped bass topped with green mangoes, onions, scallions and a mint and chili lime sauce, and Duck Red Curry, featuring barbequed duck, pineapple, bell peppers, and basil in a special red curry sauce. Just one meal at … Learn More »

Located in San Diego’s stylish and trendy Gaslamp Quarter, Rama blends in perfectly with its fashionable and bustling surroundings. The modern Thai restaurant is the sister restaurant of Hillcrest’s Celadon, and brings owner’s Alex Thao’s stylish, flavorful Thai cuisine to downtown patrons. The dramatic setting offers soft lighting and an earthy minimalist style, with romantic tables separated by floor-to-ceiling sheer panels. The menu is fresh, spicy, and ultimately authentic, with a variety of stir fries and curries that can be prepared with a choice of chicken, pork, beef, vegetables, or tofu, as well as indulgent house specialties such as Rama … Learn More »

Located at the eastern tip of Shelter Island, with a boat dock stretching from the back door, it is no surprise water is the predominant theme at Bali Hai. Taking cues from Island cultures from Tahiti to Polynesia, the historic Tiki-themed restaurant invites diners to a sensual escape of island pleasures. The menu is filled with rich and exotic dishes including Lobster Wontons, Chicken of the Gods, and Kailua Pork Loin, and the bar offers—what else?—famously authentic Mai Tai’s. Sunday Champagne Brunch attracts such a large crowd that the dock out back is often packed while eager boaters dine inside. Learn More »

Indian Restaurant & Catering. With specialty cocktails, selected Indian Beers, unique Small Bites and spectacular Curries and fresh baked Naans. Learn More »

Located on the edge of Harbor Island, just out of earshot of the airport, Island Prime’s stilt-supported structure extends out over the bay, giving diners the sense that they are floating along on a dinner cruise. Chef Deborah Scott's retro, yet sophisticated menu features metro steaks, seafood, and other diversely decadent dishes that will make your jaw drop. Between the nostalgic cuisine and the breath-taking view, Island Prime will keep you coming back for more. Learn More »

If you love Italian food but feel trapped in a pasta and pizza rut, Devine Pastabilities will serve up your old Italian favorites with a twist. The Point Loma eatery’s unique specialty, dubbed the “Torpasta,” consists of a hollowed-out Italian bread roll stuffed with a pasta dish such as Spaghetti Marinara or Fettuccine Alfredo. Pizza, salads, and classic Torpedo sandwiches are also on the menu. Devine Pastabilities features locally brewed beers on tap and offers happy hour specials from 5pm to 7pm, Monday thru Saturday. Learn More »

Nestled just above the scenic ocean bluffs of La Jolla, A.R. Valentien inside The Lodge at Torrey Pines features innovative California cuisine in a truly spectacular setting. Executive Chef Jeff Jackson conveys his market driven approach with seasonal ingredients from organic farms, orchards, and local fisherman. Wine lovers will rejoice in the extensive wine list boasting a vast collection of regional varietals from a string of California wineries. Just beyond the entrance, with its charming overhanging foliage, the interior of the restaurant showcases American Craftsman design with features like beautiful exposed beams and stained-glass lanterns, as well as selected artwork … Learn More »