Best Southwest American Restaurants in Encanto

149 restaurants available nearby

1. Cowboy Star

4.9

Exceptional(4770)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 75 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 Water Grill - San Diego restaurant

2. Water Grill - San Diego

4.7

Exceptional(3609)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 33 times today

Water Grill - San Diego is a standout destination for exceptional American cuisine, offering an authentic seafood experience in the vibrant Gaslamp District. Known for its "first catch of the season" approach, the restaurant excels in delivering fresh, high-quality seafood that arrives boat-to-table in mere hours. Diners rave about the "perfection" of the dishes, with standout menu items like the Chilean Sea Bass and the lobster roll receiving glowing praise. The service is consistently top-notch, with patrons applauding the attentive and knowledgeable staff. Whether for a romantic date or a business meeting, Water Grill promises a memorable culinary adventure.

A photo of Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego restaurant

3. Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego

4.7

Exceptional(974)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 14 times today

Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego is a standout destination for Pizza Bar cuisine, offering a delightful experience in the heart of Downtown San Diego. Known for its woodfire-oven baked pizzas, Provisional serves up authentic Italian flavors that have earned rave reviews for their "extraordinary service and quality." Guests appreciate the "beautiful venue" and "lovely atmosphere," which enhance the dining experience. The pizzas, crafted with fresh ingredients and a perfect crisp crust, are a testament to the restaurant's commitment to excellence. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Provisional promises a memorable culinary journey with its top-notch Pizza Bar offerings.

A photo of The Smoking Goat Restaurant restaurant

4. The Smoking Goat Restaurant

4.7

Exceptional(2646)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • North Park

Booked 10 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.

5. CUCINA urbana

4.8

Exceptional(7119)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Banker's Hill

Booked 46 times today

CUCINA urbana in Banker's Hill, San Diego, offers an exceptional American dining experience with a California-inspired twist. Renowned for its "amazing food and ambience," this restaurant seamlessly blends comfort with contemporary flair, creating a warm yet stylish environment. Diners rave about the "fantastic food and service," particularly highlighting the exquisite pasta and woodfire pizzas that are "second to none." The restaurant's wine program is a standout feature, offering an impressive selection that perfectly complements the menu. With attentive staff and a lively atmosphere, CUCINA urbana is the perfect spot for celebrating life events or enjoying a memorable meal.

6. Huntress

4.5

Awesome(813)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 21 times today

Huntress in downtown San Diego redefines American cuisine with its adventurous and energetic approach, offering diners a truly "world-class experience." As a standout modern steakhouse, it boasts the finest cuts of meat, such as the highly recommended Australian Wagyu, and complements them with "exquisite presentations" that rival a Michelin star experience. Guests rave about the "amazing service" provided by knowledgeable staff, ensuring each visit is memorable. With a lively atmosphere, one of California's largest collections of Japanese whisky, and unique dishes like the Magic Mushroom dessert, Huntress delivers on its promise of American cuisine elevated to extraordinary heights.

7. KINDRED

4.7

Exceptional(215)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • South Park

Booked 27 times today

KINDRED in South Park, San Diego, offers a captivating twist on American cuisine with its world-class vegan dishes and inventive cocktails. This restaurant has been hailed as "one of the best places I have eaten at," with reviews praising its "phenomenal vegan food" and "incredibly delicious" offerings. KINDRED's menu is a creative fusion of flavors, which leaves diners "feeling good and satisfied." The restaurant's vibrant atmosphere, described as "eclectic but interesting and vibey," complements its award-winning interior design, creating an unparalleled dining experience. KINDRED is truly a gem for those seeking authentic and innovative American cuisine in a unique setting.

A photo of Saint James French Diner restaurant

8. Saint James French Diner

4.6

Exceptional(240)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 22 times today

This American diner meets elegant French bistro is open Monday–Friday for Breakfast and Lunch, every day for Dinner and Happy Hour, and on the weekends for Brunch. With a full bar and an approachable menu, locals and travelers can indulge in a variety of French-inspired classics, from shared mussels to ratatouille and burgers.

A photo of Louisiana Purchase SD restaurant

9. Louisiana Purchase SD

4.6

Exceptional(692)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • North Park

Booked 37 times today

At Louisiana Purchase SD in North Park, San Diego, authentic Creole cuisine takes center stage, delighting diners with "flavor-packed, perfectly seasoned" dishes that transport you straight to New Orleans. Executive Chef Quinnton Austin, a New Orleans native, infuses each dish with his extensive knowledge and passion for Southern flavors, ensuring an experience that is both genuine and unforgettable. Guests rave about signature items like the "Alligator Cheesecake" and "Rasta Pasta," applauding the rich, bold tastes and generous portions. With its warm, vibrant atmosphere and exceptional service, Louisiana Purchase SD promises a truly memorable dining experience for anyone craving a taste of the South.

10. Books + Records

4.7

Exceptional(385)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Banker's Hill

Booked 19 times today

Books + Records in Banker's Hill, San Diego, is a standout Cocktail Bar, celebrated for its "inventive and creative drinks." Patrons rave about the "perfectly executed" cocktails, including unique infusions like the grey tea drink, described as "delish!" This cocktail haven consistently makes Eater's list of San Diego's Hottest Cocktail Bars, showcasing the mixology mastery of its skilled bartenders. The ambiance is lively, featuring live music that complements the vibrant atmosphere. With "attentive and friendly" service and a menu that pairs perfectly with their drinks, Books + Records offers an unmatched cocktail experience that invites you to savor every sip.

‘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

J
JohnVIP
Phoenix / Arizona •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
fast service excellent food quality and reasonable prices
More info
Ortega's A Mexican BistroPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Hillcrest
•
4.6
N
Nicole
Phoenix / Arizona •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
The staff was very attentive to our group of 11. We were pleased with the quality of food and the time it took to prepare.
More info
Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Fashion ValleyPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Mission Valley
•
4.8
P
PatrickVIP
San Diego •24 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Our dinner was delicious and our waiter, Miquel, was great!
More info
Blanco Cocina + Cantina - CoronadoPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Coronado
•
4.6
M
Melanie
San Diego •59 reviews
4.0
Dined on Dec 26, 2024
Definitely glad we made reservations! It was Christmas night and super busy! Our server was great. Food was good, got a Carnitas taco and it was gushy and had no pork taste. We decided it was pot roast not carnitas! Very disappointed. The white rice was interesting, never seen that at a Mexican restaurant before. Beans were good. The other taco I had was delicious! I think it was called the Gringo. I will go back just for that taco!! Overall it was a good night! We will be back
More info
Casa De Freds, Tacos y TequilaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Old Town
•
4.5
C
Cynthia
San Diego •11 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 10, 2024
The food was delicious! The drinks were also delicious! Food is moderately priced, but the drinks are quite expensive! Guacamole was plentiful and very tasty! Our server was extremely helpful and personable! First time at blind and we would come again!
More info
Blind BurroPrice: Moderate• Mexican / Regional American (Southwestern)• Downtown / Gaslamp
•
4.6

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Encanto

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Best Southwest American Restaurants in Encanto

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149 restaurants available nearby

1. Cowboy Star

2. Water Grill - San Diego

3. Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego

4. The Smoking Goat Restaurant

5. CUCINA urbana

6. Huntress

7. KINDRED

8. Saint James French Diner

9. Louisiana Purchase SD

10. Books + Records

See what locals rave about

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