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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in College Area

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24 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Smoking Goat Restaurant restaurant
1. The Smoking Goat Restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2683)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • North Park
Booked 14 times today
The Smoking Goat Restaurant in North Park, San Diego, delivers an exceptional Contemporary French / American experience that has garnered rave reviews and awards, including the Gold Medallion for the best French Bistro in San Diego three years running. Executive Chef Fred Piehl's masterful blend of classic French techniques with the fresh, sustainable bounty of San Diego offers a "rustic, yet refined" culinary journey. Diners have lauded dishes such as the "perfectly cooked" duck l'orange and the "delicious" prime rib, each beautifully presented. With an attentive staff and a well-curated selection of wines and craft cocktails, The Smoking Goat promises a memorable dining experience.
A photo of Kettner Exchange restaurant
2. Kettner Exchange
4.7
Exceptional(1416)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Little Italy
Booked 67 times today
Kettner Exchange in Little Italy, San Diego, offers an exceptional Asian fusion experience that is both inventive and authentic. Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski’s creations have earned the restaurant a coveted spot on the Michelin Guide's Bib Gourmand list since 2019, showcasing high-quality meals at accessible prices. Diners rave about the "spicy garlic noodles" and "juicy cheeseburger special," underscoring the delightful fusion of flavors. The rooftop patio with stunning harbor views enhances the dining ambiance, making it perfect for any occasion. Guests frequently praise the "stellar service" and "amazing cocktails," solidifying Kettner Exchange as a must-visit destination for Asian cuisine enthusiasts.
A photo of Great Maple San Diego restaurant
3. Great Maple San Diego
4.8
Exceptional(4463)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Hillcrest
Booked 52 times today
Great Maple San Diego, nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Hillcrest, is a beacon of excellence in Contemporary American cuisine. This modern eatery is celebrated for its "outstanding" food and "exceptional" service, making it a favorite destination for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Diners rave about the delightful maple bacon donuts and "delectable" brisket hash, highlighting the creative use of fresh, local ingredients. Reviewers consistently praise the "huge portions" and "fantastic flavors," ensuring no one leaves hungry. With its inviting atmosphere and "friendly" staff, Great Maple offers a truly authentic and memorable dining experience that captures the essence of Contemporary American cuisine.
A photo of Cowboy Star restaurant
4. Cowboy Star
4.8
Exceptional(4847)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 56 times today
Cowboy Star in downtown San Diego is a gem of Contemporary American cuisine, capturing the essence of regional American heirloom recipes with a modern twist. Their commitment to using locally sourced, natural, and organic ingredients shines through every dish, offering "exceptional quality" that diners rave about. Known for their impeccable service and warm atmosphere, Cowboy Star is celebrated for its perfectly cooked steaks, with one reviewer exclaiming, "the best steakhouse in San Diego, PERIOD." The diverse menu, which includes top-notch wine and cocktails, ensures that every visit is a "memorable and enjoyable experience," making Cowboy Star a must-visit for any steak lover.
A photo of Rustic Root - Gaslamp restaurant
5. Rustic Root - Gaslamp
new
4.5
Awesome(1352)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 58 times today
Rustic Root showcases our take on New American Comfort food with a California twist. Classic dishes are rooted in tradition, including regional dishes from around the country. All reimagined with fresh and local ingredients and our Chef’s modern flair. Our Signature drink menus offer our take on timeless classic cocktails as well as Rustic Root originals using creative spirits and the freshest ingredients. Join us in our street-level dining room for dinner nightly or our award-winning weekend brunch. Our rooftop lounge is an excellent place to grab drinks & a bite with friends, enjoying the San Diego weather and our unique location in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter. Close to the San Diego Convention Center, we're a favorite for locals and out of town tourists alike.
A photo of Coco Maya restaurant
6. Coco Maya
4.4
Awesome(392)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Little Italy
Booked 11 times today
Coco Maya in Little Italy, San Diego, is a vibrant cocktail bar that elevates your dining experience with "excellent drinks and ambience." Renowned for its diverse mezcal and tequila selection, this bar seamlessly blends tropical and rum-based cocktails, a hallmark that traces back to its roots at Miss B's Coconut Club. Guests rave about the "perfectly crafted espresso martini," which stands out among their expertly curated beverages. The lively rooftop setting, often accompanied by a DJ, adds a fun and energetic vibe that enhances the entire experience. If you're seeking a memorable cocktail adventure, Coco Maya promises to deliver!
A photo of Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar restaurant
7. Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar
4.6
Exceptional(1329)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Mission Hills
Booked 6 times today
Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar in Mission Hills, San Diego, is a seafood lover’s paradise, celebrated for its "Live Maine Lobster" nights that consistently delight diners. With an emphasis on quality and authenticity, their seafood offerings are praised for being "perfectly cooked" and "delicious." The restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere, combined with "exceptional service" from a friendly and professional staff, ensures a memorable dining experience. Their commitment to crafting incredible dishes, like the lobster, makes Harley Gray stand out in the seafood scene. If you’re seeking fresh, expertly prepared seafood in a warm neighborhood setting, Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar is a must-visit!
A photo of Topside Terrace restaurant
8. Topside Terrace
4.0
Excellent(392)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 7 times today
Topside Terrace is a vibrant gem in downtown San Diego, offering an unforgettable taste of authentic Californian cuisine. With an open-air terrace that perfectly captures the coastal spirit, the restaurant delights diners with its "incredible rooftop brunch experience" featuring dishes like Carne asada chilaquiles and Crab Benedict. The menu seamlessly blends Baja California and Classic American fare, all beautifully plated and complemented by contemporary cocktails. Guests rave about the "great food" and "attentive staff," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking genuine Californian flavors. Live music and happy hour specials further enhance this lively venue, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
A photo of Covewood - Mission Bay Resort restaurant
9. Covewood - Mission Bay Resort
4.2
Awesome(553)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Mission Bay
Booked 9 times today
Covewood - Mission Bay Resort offers an exceptional American dining experience that captures the essence of California Coastal Cuisine with a delightful twist. Located in the picturesque Mission Bay, San Diego, this restaurant has garnered rave reviews for its "delicious and beautifully presented" dishes, such as the bold Caesar salad and perfectly cooked burgers. Diners appreciate the "wonderful ambiance" and "fantastic food and service," making it an "unexpected gem" for locals and visitors alike. The restaurant's ability to pair fresh seafood with wood-grilled vegetables and local wines creates a memorable culinary journey that truly stands out in American cuisine.
A photo of Tavern restaurant
10. Tavern
4.8
Exceptional(774)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Coronado
Booked 2 times today
Nestled in the heart of Coronado, Tavern is a beacon of authentic Farm-to-table cuisine, where "every bite is amazing" and the "food is consistently great." Diners rave about the fresh, locally sourced ingredients that make each dish a culinary delight. From the delectable wagyu steak to the inventive cocktails, the menu showcases a commitment to quality and sustainability. The cozy, rustic-chic atmosphere, complemented by "fantastic people" and excellent service, makes every visit memorable. With its "great food, great atmosphere," and an unwavering dedication to genuine Farm-to-table dining, Tavern is the perfect spot for a delightful and authentic dining experience.
‘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
  • McKenna
    San Diego •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    What an incredible meal! Everything on the menu was delicious. We have been to Campfire a few times now and our favorite thing to do is to order a lot and split everything. The broccoli is a must try and I love asking the staff what they recommend. This time we split a ton of our favorite apps, the market fish and the pasta. Loved the pasta and fish together! I will definitely be returning to Campfire. Aside from the food; the staff is so friendly, knowledgeable & pleasant.
    More info
    CampfirePrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Carlsbad
    •
    4.8
  • MathewVIP
    St. Louis •16 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Fabulous restaurant. Great food. Engaging servers. Huge portions. Wonderful breakfast experience.
    More info
    Great Maple San DiegoPrice: Moderate• American• Hillcrest
    •
    4.8
  • Laura
    San Diego •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Me and my boyfriend loved the place! I got the ribs that is 10/10 and he got the NY steak what was really good. Service excellent, specifically the busser Lalo, who is really quick and very nice! We also ordered some sides that was way too much for 2 people. Brussels sprouts were really yummy and the mac and cheese was ok, nothing really special.
    More info
    Cowboy StarPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Downtown / Gaslamp
    •
    4.8
  • Jackie
    San Diego •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Fantastic food, service, and ambiance as always and with a live DJ during Sunday brunch! Would be great if DJ started before noon (started just before 1pm when we were about to leave), but was fun to have some good vibes at the end :) My fave spot in San Diego by far!
    More info
    Kettner ExchangePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
    •
    4.7
  • Matt
    New York City •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 18, 2025
    Food was fantastic and our server was very attentive. Highly recommended the Brussels, Cornbread, Filet, and Jambalaya. Beer list was on point as well.
    More info
    Rustic Root - GaslampPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown / Gaslamp
    •
    4.5

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