Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Kearny Mesa

35 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Covewood - Mission Bay Resort restaurant

1. Covewood - Mission Bay Resort

4.3

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Mission Bay

Booked 4 times today

Covewood at Mission Bay Resort in San Diego is the epitome of exquisite American cuisine, offering a unique California coastal flair that captivates both locals and visitors alike. The restaurant is celebrated for its fresh seafood and wood-grilled vegetables, perfectly paired with local wines and innovative cocktails. Diners rave about the "bold" flavors, such as the anchovy-enhanced Caesar salad and perfectly cooked burgers, stating that every dish is "exceptional" and "worth every penny." The ambiance, described as "barefoot-chic," complements the high-quality service provided by staff members like Jorge and Juan, who are frequently praised for their attentiveness. Covewood is not just a meal; it’s a "wonderful" dining experience that leaves guests planning their next visit before they've even departed.

A photo of Bazille - Nordstrom University Town Center restaurant

2. Bazille - Nordstrom University Town Center

4.8

Exceptional(187)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • La Jolla

Booked 2 times today

This full-service restaurant with a casually sophisticated atmosphere features bistro cuisine and a full bar. Enjoy fresh salads, specialty entrées, signature cocktails, a wine list and housemade desserts.Nordstrom is located along Genesee Avenue, between La Jolla Village Drive and Nobel Drive. Bazille is located on the 2nd floor, overlooking the main courtyard of the newly expanded UTC. We offer a full bar with wine, beer & hand crafted cocktails, as well as open patio dining. We are open for dine-in service, covered, heated outdoor patio dining and to-go orders with Curbside Pickup. Call (858) 812-3582 to place your order.Join us for Brunch on weekends;July 4th hours: 11am-5pm

A photo of NM Café at Neiman Marcus – San Diego restaurant

3. NM Café at Neiman Marcus – San Diego

5.0

Exceptional(325)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Mission Valley

Booked 4 times today

NM Café in Mission Valley, San Diego, is a gem for those seeking authentic and high-quality Californian cuisine. Recently remodeled, this café offers a laid-back luxe environment where every dish promises a delightful experience. Guests rave about the "amazing" shrimp with pasta special and the "delightful" fennel salad with grapefruit, highlighting the innovative and fresh flavors that exemplify Californian dining. The restaurant's commitment to excellence is evident as guests mention, "NM Cafe is the ultimate 'go-to' spot for lunch, consistently delivering a wonderful experience." With its understated modern décor and exceptional service, NM Café stands out as a must-visit for both locals and visitors wanting to indulge in true Californian flavors.

4. La Pastaia

4.3

Awesome(292)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Bay Park

Booked 9 times today

La Pastaia, nestled in the charming neighborhood of Bay Park, San Diego, is a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine that promises an authentic and delightful dining experience. The restaurant is celebrated for its "homemade pasta tossed in flavorful sauces" and "wood-fired pizzas topped with the freshest ingredients," crafted with a modern twist. Guests often rave about the quality of the dishes, such as the "delicious Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe" and the "pasta with zucchini cream," highlighting their authentic and innovative flavors. The atmosphere is described as "a beautiful spot with amazing food and wonderful service," making it a must-visit for those seeking a genuine Italian culinary journey. The consistently "excellent service and food," along with glowing reviews like "the best homemade pasta we have ever tried," underscore why La Pastaia stands out as a top destination for Contemporary Italian fare in San Diego.

A photo of La Gran Terraza - University of San Diego restaurant

5. La Gran Terraza - University of San Diego

4.7

Exceptional(1122)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Mission Valley

Booked 1 time today

La Gran Terraza in Mission Valley, San Diego, stands out as a beacon of Mediterranean cuisine, seamlessly blending the authentic flavors of the Mediterranean with a Californian twist. Nestled within the University of San Diego campus, this restaurant offers not just food but an experience, with stunning views of Tecolote Canyon and Mission Bay enhancing the dining ambiance. Patrons rave about the "delicious and simple" Brazilian four-course meals and the Mediterranean staples like the "Dukkah Crusted Market Fish" and "Squid Ink Pasta," which are prepared with farm-to-table freshness. Reviewers consistently praise the restaurant, noting the "excellent service" and an atmosphere perfect for both casual and special occasions.

6. Kettner Exchange

4.7

Exceptional(1334)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Little Italy

Booked 43 times today

Kettner Exchange in Little Italy, San Diego, is a paragon of Contemporary American cuisine, offering a unique dining experience that reflects the very essence of culinary innovation. With its expansive harbor views from the rooftop patio and the culinary prowess of Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski, the restaurant has consistently wowed diners and critics alike, earning a spot on the Michelin Guide's Bib Gourmand list since 2019. Reviews often highlight the inspired menu, such as one diner’s praise for the “magical” way flavors and textures are combined. Another reviewer raves, “UNBELIEVABLE! THE MOST INCREDIBLE DINING EXPERIENCE OF MY LIFE,” underscoring the exceptional quality and creativity on display. Kettner Exchange's commitment to a thrilling gastronomic journey makes it a must-visit for those seeking the best in Contemporary American fare.

A photo of Great Maple San Diego restaurant

7. Great Maple San Diego

4.8

Exceptional(4370)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Hillcrest

Booked 109 times today

Great Maple in San Diego's vibrant Hillcrest neighborhood is celebrated for its exemplary farm-to-table cuisine, crafting a menu that highlights seasonal and local ingredients. Diners rave about the "innovative dishes" and "fresh house-made pies," with special mentions to the "famous maple bacon doughnuts" which are described as an "absolute must-try." The commitment to freshness is palpable, with one reviewer noting, "How do you make veggies that good?" The atmosphere complements the dining experience with its "warm and welcoming ambiance," ensuring every meal is both a delight to the palate and a feast for the senses. Whether it's the "excellent service" or the "social wine list," Great Maple is a beloved destination for those seeking authentic, high-quality farm-to-table dining in San Diego.

A photo of The Smoking Goat Restaurant restaurant

8. The Smoking Goat Restaurant

4.8

Exceptional(2634)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • North Park

Booked 8 times today

At The Smoking Goat in North Park, San Diego, French cuisine is redefined with a Californian touch, earning it the Gold Medallion for the best French Bistro in San Diego for three consecutive years. Executive Chef Fred Piehl, a Le Cordon Bleu Paris alumnus, masterfully blends rustic yet refined French techniques with San Diego's freshest ingredients. Patrons rave about the authentic French flavors with a local twist, describing dishes like the "perfectly cooked duck" and "incredible mussels and duck fat fries" as culinary marvels. The ambiance is consistently praised as "cozy and nice," making The Smoking Goat a must-visit for an authentic and delightful French dining experience.

9. Cowboy Star

4.9

Exceptional(4725)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 46 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.

10. Coco Maya

4.7

Exceptional(375)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Little Italy

Booked 4 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.

‘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

B
Brian
Charlotte •1 review
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Amazing food and service. The Prime Rib was amazing. Our server Anna was just perfect and on top of everything. We will definitely be back soon.
More info
Covewood - Mission Bay ResortPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Mission Bay
•
4.3
S
Sulimonivip
San Diego •68 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
My wife and I enjoyed a peaceful lunch before the Thanksgiving rush, a moment to savor. We delighted in their NM Burger and fries, enhanced with avocado and bacon, truly a feast for the senses. Our meal was beautifully complemented by a warm cup of chicken consommé and the irresistible pull-apart popovers with strawberry butter—a reminder of life’s simple joys. The NM Cafe Team consistently uplifts the experience. We were warmly welcomed by Jorge, and Edger, our outstanding server, made us feel right at home. We wrapped up our meal with a delightful Cortado crafted by Rosario, the perfect finishing touch. All in all, our experience was filled with gratitude and joy, and we look forward to returning soon.
More info
NM Café at Neiman Marcus – San DiegoPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Mission Valley
•
5
V
Vincentvip
Washington, D.C. Area •71 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Incredible! We started with the sushi-grade Hot Oil Seated Salmon and the Whipped Buttermilk Ricotta with charred bread for dipping. We also had the Roasted Chinese Eggplant sitting on lemon yogurt and pine nuts that had the appearance of sushi and the taste of beautifully seasoned eggplant. We also had the juicy cheeseburger special which had perfect fries.
More info
Kettner ExchangePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
•
4.7
R
Raymond
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined on Nov 21, 2024
I am a frequent customer at La Gran Terraza and I enjoy everything about it. The waiters and waitresses are very polite. The food is very tasty and rich with flavor. The prime rib is very good for its value and one can never have enough bread. It's a great place to bring family, also very awesome for a date night too!
More info
La Gran Terraza - University of San DiegoPrice: Moderate• Californian• Mission Valley
•
4.7
J
Julie
San Diego •9 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 2, 2024
Excellent service, food and ambience. Special thank you to our kind and courteous server Sofia. Sofia went above and beyond to ensure our evening was perfect. She was warm, attentive, and knowledgeable, making us feel truly cared for throughout the evening.
More info
Bazille - Nordstrom University Town CenterPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• La Jolla
•
4.8

Explore OpenTable

Kearny Mesa

Contemporary american

Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Kearny Mesa

Price

Regions

Neighbourhoods

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating Options

Award-winning

Accessibility

35 restaurants available nearby

1. Covewood - Mission Bay Resort

2. Bazille - Nordstrom University Town Center

3. NM Café at Neiman Marcus – San Diego

4. La Pastaia

5. La Gran Terraza - University of San Diego

6. Kettner Exchange

7. Great Maple San Diego

8. The Smoking Goat Restaurant

9. Cowboy Star

10. Coco Maya

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable