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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in San Marcos

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8 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Campfire restaurant
1. Campfire
4.8
Exceptional(5256)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Carlsbad
Booked 70 times today
Campfire in Carlsbad is the epitome of Contemporary American cuisine, delivering a dynamic and innovative dining experience centered around live-fire cooking. The restaurant’s commitment to market-driven ingredients is evident in every dish, from the wood-grilled specialties to the uniquely crafted cocktails. Customers rave about the "fantastic vibe" and "creative and delicious cuisine," highlighting favorites like the roasted broccoli and the ambiance-enhancing s’mores for dessert. Praised for both its food and atmosphere, Campfire is celebrated as a place where "the wood fire brings a great flavor to everything!" making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic and high-quality American dining experience.
A photo of Vue - Omni La Costa Resort & Spa restaurant
2. Vue - Omni La Costa Resort & Spa
4.2
Awesome(158)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Carlsbad
Booked 17 times today
At Vue - Omni La Costa Resort & Spa in Carlsbad, the essence of authentic Mexican cuisine is celebrated with every dish served. Nestled in a picturesque setting with breathtaking views over lush golf courses, Vue offers a dining experience where flavor and culture blend seamlessly. Guests rave about the "outstanding" Mexican selections, such as the corned beef hash with Brussels sprouts and the chimichurri sauce-draped short ribs, which are described as "outstanding." The coconut curry chicken is another highlight, noted for its authenticity and rich flavors. Diners consistently praise the culinary craftsmanship, with comments like "the Chilean sea bass was perfectly prepared" and the papaya salad being "sooo good." Vue's commitment to quality and authenticity makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking an exceptional Mexican meal in Carlsbad.
A photo of Waverly Restaurant & Lounge restaurant
3. Waverly Restaurant & Lounge
4.7
Exceptional(108)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Encinitas
Booked 63 times today
Nestled in the charming Cardiff by The Sea in Encinitas, Waverly Restaurant & Lounge is a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine. It offers a progressive menu infused with a European twist that tantalizes the palate with dishes like the divine burrata "donuts" and adventurous bone marrow paired with beef tartare. The rave reviews emphasize the quality and creativity of the menu. One guest exclaimed, "The duck meatball was flavorful and moist," illustrating the unique culinary delights that await at Waverly. With its chic Tulum-inspired decor and a vibrant atmosphere, Waverly stands out as a must-visit destination for those seeking an exceptional dining experience with a contemporary American flair.
A photo of 7MILE Kitchen restaurant
4. 7MILE Kitchen
4.2
Awesome(321)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Carlsbad
Booked 9 times today
At 7MILE Kitchen in Carlsbad, the Pizza Bar stands as a beacon of culinary excellence, especially for those who cherish authentic wood-fired pizzas. Nestled along Carlsbad's stunning coastline, this restaurant has quickly become a favorite for its commitment to quality and authenticity in every slice. Patrons rave about the unique flavors, such as the sausage pizza which boasts "delectable sausage morsels, flavorful cheese, and a one-of-a-kind sauce" that truly sets it apart. The careful attention to detail, from the "meticulously sliced red peppers" to the innovative sweet and spicy sausage, ensures each pizza is not just eaten, but experienced. Whether you're a local or just passing through, the remarkable pizza at 7MILE Kitchen is an absolute must-try, promising a slice of Carlsbad at its best.
A photo of 20|TWENTY restaurant
5. 20|TWENTY
4.2
Awesome(1159)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Carlsbad
Booked 29 times today
20|TWENTY in Carlsbad stands as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, offering a delightful blend of local flair and global inspirations. Helmed by the talented Chef Jason Luke, the restaurant prides itself on its minimalist approach that highlights fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced within a 40-mile radius. Patrons rave about the "perfect blend of manchego cheese, pistachio nuts, and lemon citrus in the kale salad" and the unforgettable brunch experience with "omelets loved by all." The spectacular views of the Pacific coastline enhance every meal, making 20|TWENTY not just a meal, but a memorable dining escapade. Whether it’s the "delicious" frittata or the brunch that keeps guests returning, 20|TWENTY captures the essence of Southern California’s coastal palette in every dish.
A photo of Pacific Point - Park Hyatt Aviara restaurant
6. Pacific Point - Park Hyatt Aviara
4.2
Awesome(170)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Carlsbad
Tucked away in the picturesque city of Carlsbad, Pacific Point at Park Hyatt Aviara offers an authentic and high-quality Pacific Rim dining experience that is not to be missed. Guests rave about the exceptional service and the stunning views, which complement the exquisitely crafted Pacific Rim dishes. One guest enthused, "We really enjoyed our stay...the food at the resort was good especially if you like sushi or fish." The restaurant's ambiance, enhanced by Carlsbad's finest sunsets, ensures a perfect backdrop for a memorable meal. Whether it's a family dinner or a romantic outing, Pacific Point stands out as a premier destination for those seeking a taste of the Pacific Rim in an elegant setting.
A photo of Topgolf Swing Suite at Park Hyatt Aviara restaurant
7. Topgolf Swing Suite at Park Hyatt Aviara
4.6
Exceptional(55)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Carlsbad
Booked 5 times today
Experience the essence of Californian cuisine at the Topgolf Swing Suite at Park Hyatt Aviara in the charming city of Carlsbad. This venue is a celebration of local flavors, offering signature bites that perfectly embody the fresh, vibrant tastes of California. Guests rave about the "exceptional place for an overwhelming experience" and the "excellent service" that enhances the dining experience. Enjoy an innovative menu that showcases the best of local produce and culinary creativity, making it more than just a meal, but a true Californian gastronomic adventure. Whether it's a family gathering or a fun night out, the authenticity and quality of the food here promise a memorable dining experience.
A photo of SHELTER restaurant
8. SHELTER
4.1
Excellent(23)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Encinitas
Booked 1 time today
"Open- air" cocktail lounge and nightclub in the heart of downtown Encinitas. DJ's nightly curating sexy house vibes. Reservations for bottle service are highly recommended. Shelter is a 21+ venue.
‘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
  • Charis
    Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Most amazing birthday meal tonight. The server was so attentive and made sure we all knew how the menu worked and how to have the best experience. The broccoli was the number 1 at our table followed by the chicken dish and the market fish. The s’mores dessert was so fun and delicious as well! Everything 10/10, worth the wait for a reservation.
    More info
    CampfirePrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Carlsbad
    •
    4.8
  • Sogol
    San Diego •2 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We had a reservation for our traditional Christmas brunch (11 a.m.), requesting outdoor sitting. We were greeted upon arrival, and our request was honored. They were not very busy. The facility was clean and neathly set up. The view of the golf course was beautiful. The service was fabulous. We were attended to frequently, keeping our coffee and water filled. The drinks (Memosas and Bloody Mary) and food were delicious and freshly made, and the price was decent. The only unfortunate part was that there was no brunch menu, and breakfast had ended, which was a downer, and resulted in several parties walking away. We were really looking forward to having breakfast food.
    More info
    Vue - Omni La Costa Resort & SpaPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Carlsbad
    •
    4.2
  • jim
    San Diego •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    The small plates are entirely original, owing more to Asian and other fusion than to Spanish tapas. The cocktails were original and enhanced the meal. Ambience was great
    More info
    Kettner ExchangePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
    •
    4.7
  • PatrickVIP
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 17, 2024
    Loved it as always. So glad a place like Waverly exists in Cardiff for casual evenings out to the most celebratory dinner.
    More info
    Waverly Restaurant & LoungePrice: Expensive• American• Encinitas
    •
    4.7
  • Anne
    Orange County •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 26, 2024
    This place was a nice vibe for me and my family. We hadn’t tried this spot before but we all loved our meals and drinks! Definitely coming back here.
    More info
    7MILE KitchenPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Carlsbad
    •
    4.2

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