Best Southwest American Restaurants in University Heights

179 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Kairoa Brewing Company restaurant

1. Kairoa Brewing Company

4.5

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • University Heights

Kairoa is the culmination of our passion for food, beer and our original home country of New Zealand. The food is New Zealand comfort food mixed with southern Californian favorites. Nothing beats our New Zealand style smoked lamb fries and a crisp pilsner.Our mission is to create delicious beer and food that makes people feel at home in our modern farmhouse designed space, a nod to our family past. Enjoy our rooftop bar with friends while enjoying the sunset over the San Diego urban scenery.

A photo of Great Maple San Diego restaurant

2. Great Maple San Diego

4.8

Exceptional(4401)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Hillcrest

Booked 84 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.

3. Coasterra

4.6

Exceptional(7597)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Harbor Island

Booked 132 times today

Coasterra, nestled in the scenic Harbor Island of San Diego, is a beacon of exceptional Seafood cuisine. With breathtaking views of the bay and the city skyline, Coasterra offers an unforgettable dining experience that pairs perfectly with its high-quality Seafood offerings. Guests rave about standout dishes like the "Blood Orange Scallop Aguachile" and the "hefty and delicious" mahi tacos, both of which showcase the restaurant's dedication to authentic and flavorful Seafood. The ambiance and service complement the exquisite cuisine, making every visit a delightful occasion. Whether celebrating a special moment or enjoying a casual meal, Coasterra promises a Seafood experience that is both memorable and delectable.

A photo of Puesto Mission Valley restaurant

4. Puesto Mission Valley

4.6

Exceptional(1999)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Mission Valley

Booked 38 times today

Puesto Mission Valley is a vibrant gem in the heart of San Diego, delivering exceptional Contemporary Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. Family-owned and operated, Puesto stands out with its commitment to authenticity and innovation. Diners rave about the "amazingly tasty and flavorful" tacos crafted from non-GMO, organic, heirloom blue corn tortillas, perfectly complemented by their scratch salsas. The restaurant is well-known for its "outstanding food and service," with patrons frequently praising the "superb" filet mignon tacos and "show-stopping" guacamole. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying Taco Tuesday, Puesto promises an unforgettable dining experience that keeps guests coming back.

A photo of Ironside Fish & Oyster restaurant

5. Ironside Fish & Oyster

4.5

Awesome(4563)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Little Italy

Booked 115 times today

Ironside Fish & Oyster in San Diego's Little Italy is a quintessential hotspot for authentic American cuisine, seamlessly blending traditional and contemporary flavors. This gem pays homage to its roots in the fishing industry with a mouthwatering menu that features renowned dishes such as the lobster roll and clam chowder, praised for being “chock full of clams.” The vibrant atmosphere and top-notch service are frequently highlighted in reviews, with one diner noting the “excellent experience, food, and ambience.” With a stellar raw bar and an enticing happy hour, Ironside promises a “delightful experience” that diners find irresistible.

6. Herb & Wood

4.7

Exceptional(6491)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Little Italy

Booked 95 times today

Herb & Wood in San Diego's vibrant Little Italy is a shining example of exquisite American cuisine. Celebrated Chef Brian Malarkey crafts a menu that elevates rustic, wood-fired dishes, blending Mediterranean flair with California's commitment to seasonality and sustainability. Diners rave about the "incredible dinner" experience, showcasing "amazing, flavorful food" and "outstanding service." The ambiance is described as "beautiful" and "welcoming," making every visit memorable. Signature dishes like the pork belly and filet mignon are praised for their exceptional taste. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a night out, Herb & Wood promises a "truly memorable culinary experience."

7. Kettner Exchange

4.7

Exceptional(1367)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Little Italy

Booked 65 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 Gravity Heights Mission Valley restaurant

8. Gravity Heights Mission Valley

4.7

Exceptional(209)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Mission Valley

Booked 15 times today

Gravity Heights Mission Valley offers an exceptional Californian cuisine experience that perfectly marries the vibrant San Diego beer scene with a stellar dining experience. Located in the heart of Mission Valley, this spacious brewpub is known for its "delicious food, exceptional service, and genuine hospitality." The expansive outdoor beer garden and inviting ambiance make it a perfect spot to enjoy the Californian flavors that diners rave about. Reviews highlight the "amazing place and food," with standout dishes like the "Golden Mustard Chicken wings" and the "Tikka Masala pot pie." It's a must-visit for anyone looking to savor authentic Californian cuisine.

9. CUCINA urbana

4.8

Exceptional(7116)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Banker's Hill

Booked 59 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.

10. Cowboy Star

4.9

Exceptional(4765)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 69 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.

‘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

P
PatrickVIP
San Diego •24 reviews
5.0
Dined today
Our dinner was delicious and our waiter, Miquel, was great!
More info
Blanco Cocina + Cantina - CoronadoPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Coronado
•
4.7
B
BrittanieVIP
San Diego •13 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Service was spot on, family friendly, food delish!
More info
Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Fashion ValleyPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Mission Valley
•
4.8
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
A
Anne
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined on Dec 22, 2024
Amazing food and service. Well designed space with lots of seating. We ordered crab enchiladas, snapper with plantain crust, chicken mole enchiladas, and table side guacamole. My husband ordered a Don Julio margarita and I got a pomegranate spritzer. Really appreciated how many non alcoholic options they had on the drink menu that weren’t just soda! We will definitely be back
More info
Ortega's A Mexican BistroPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Hillcrest
•
4.6
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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University Heights

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Best Southwest American Restaurants in University Heights

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179 restaurants available nearby

1. Kairoa Brewing Company

2. Great Maple San Diego

3. Coasterra

4. Puesto Mission Valley

5. Ironside Fish & Oyster

6. Herb & Wood

7. Kettner Exchange

8. Gravity Heights Mission Valley

9. CUCINA urbana

10. Cowboy Star

See what locals rave about

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