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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Little Italy

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31 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Kettner Exchange restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1374)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Little Italy
Booked 72 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 Coco Maya restaurant
4.5
Awesome(381)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Little Italy
Booked 6 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 Petrini's restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(431)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Little Italy
Booked 4 times today
Petrini's in San Diego's vibrant Little Italy effortlessly brings authentic American cuisine to life with their exceptional dishes. While known for its Italian roots, the restaurant's dedication to quality and authenticity shines through its American offerings. Diners rave about the "excellent food," with dishes that are "just like homemade," ensuring a genuine American experience. Patrons are drawn not only for the delightful meals but also for the "great atmosphere" and "superb service," making it a beloved neighborhood gem. Whether you’re stopping by for brunch, lunch, or dinner, Petrini's promises a memorable American dining experience that keeps guests coming back.
A photo of Cowboy Star restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(4775)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 72 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 Great Maple San Diego restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(4412)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Hillcrest
Booked 119 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 Topside Terrace restaurant
4.2
Awesome(389)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 6 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 The Smoking Goat Restaurant restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2647)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • North Park
Booked 33 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 Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1307)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Mission Hills
Booked 22 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 Grant Grill restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1629)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 7 times today
Grant Grill, nestled in the heart of Downtown San Diego, masterfully delivers an unparalleled Contemporary American dining experience. Celebrated for its "world-class" food and "outstanding service," this iconic restaurant has been a beacon of culinary excellence since 1951. The menu, reflecting the best of seasonal ingredients, offers a fresh approach to American classics, ensuring every dish is a standout. Diners rave about the "superb" seabass and "divine" pork chop, while the elegant ambiance and attentive service create a perfect setting for any occasion. Whether enjoying a leisurely brunch or an exquisite dinner, Grant Grill promises an unforgettable experience, redefining Contemporary American cuisine.
A photo of Bronze Bird restaurant
4.5
Awesome(151)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 16 times today
Bronze Bird, nestled in the vibrant Downtown San Diego, offers a delightful foray into Contemporary American cuisine, skillfully blending So Cal comfort fare with modern culinary techniques. Located in The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, this spot is revered for its "exceptional" service and "delicious" dishes, which make it a perfect pre-theater dining destination. Diners rave about its inventive twists on classic dishes and the attentive staff that ensures every visit is memorable. The restaurant's ambiance complements its culinary offerings, creating a "casual and fun" atmosphere that keeps guests coming back for more. Whether it's the perfectly grilled steak or the divine tomato soup, Bronze Bird promises an authentic and satisfying Contemporary American dining experience.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Jovanni
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined today
    Great food and really quick service! Surprised my girlfriend with custom menus and birthday dessert! Highly recommend.
    More info
    Cowboy StarPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Downtown / Gaslamp
    4.9
  • MellonyVIP
    Asheville / Western North Carolina •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    Our very first visit was a tastebud journey down the road of a perfect dinner experience!!!!! Perfection!!! Our waiter was so awesome and fun!!! Loved it!!!
    More info
    Kettner ExchangePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
    4.7
  • Sally
    San Diego •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Menu is varied and all menu items sound delicious. Tried the bacon donuts for the first time and they are as delicious as they sound. Their Quiche is some of the best around town. A reservation is required if you don't want to wait in a line.
    More info
    Great Maple San DiegoPrice: Moderate• American• Hillcrest
    4.8
  • Lydia
    Orange County •16 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 29, 2024
    This was a last minute reservation and we were pleasantly surprised. The service was so friendly and it’s a casual ambiance which I appreciated after walking around all day. The food was great. We had salads and everything was fresh and tasty. We order the chicken parmigiana, tortellini Alfredo, and lasagna. All were excellent. My only critique was the Alfredo was a bit thicker my liking but overall you can tell was freshly made. The tomato sauce tasted very homemade which was nice. The prices were excellent too.
    More info
    Petrini'sPrice: Moderate• Italian• Little Italy
    4.6
  • DavidVIP
    San Diego •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 18, 2024
    Great customer service. Great food. Beautiful location, with great views of the sky. Great music with JB Saxx and his magic saxophone… 😎
    More info
    Coco MayaPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
    4.5

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Little Italy

Discover the vibrant flavors of Contemporary American cuisine in the heart of San Diego's Little Italy. This area, known for its rich culinary diversity, offers a unique scene where innovative American cooking meets the bustling ambiance of one of the city's most charming neighborhoods. The restaurants here are celebrated for their creative use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, emphasizing seasonality and regional quality. Each dining spot in Little Italy provides a distinctive experience, from expertly crafted dishes that blend traditional techniques with modern twists to elegantly casual settings perfect for any occasion. Patrons can expect top-notch service and a knowledgeable staff that enhances the dining experience with their expertise and passion for food. Whether you're a local foodie or a visitor looking to indulge in San Diego's dining scene, Little Italy's Contemporary American restaurants offer a memorable culinary journey that consistently earns high praise from diners. Embrace the opportunity to explore this dynamic dining landscape, where each meal is not just eaten but experienced.

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