Best Southern American Restaurants in Mission Valley

142 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Gravity Heights Mission Valley restaurant

1. Gravity Heights Mission Valley

4.7

Exceptional(192)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Mission Valley

Booked 11 times today

Gravity Heights Mission Valley in San Diego is a gem in the American cuisine scene, celebrated for pairing quality craft beers with sublime gastronomic offerings. Located in the heart of Mission Valley, this establishment stands out not just for its fine brews but also for its commitment to top-notch American dishes that receive glowing praise. Patrons frequently highlight the "delicious food" and "exceptional service," noting dishes like the chicken tikka masala pot pie as "outstanding." The ambiance, described as a "refreshingly open and light" space, perfectly complements the culinary experience, making Gravity Heights a must-visit for an authentic and enjoyable American dining adventure.

A photo of King's Fish House - Mission Valley restaurant

2. King's Fish House - Mission Valley

4.6

Exceptional(2237)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Mission Valley

Booked 14 times today

At King's Fish House in Mission Valley, San Diego, sushi enthusiasts can delight in an unparalleled dining experience. Known for its exceptional seafood offerings, the restaurant's sushi stands out with its freshness and authenticity. The menu, which changes daily, ensures a unique sushi adventure with each visit, promising the most seasonal and top-quality ingredients. Patrons rave about the sushi's excellence, with one customer exclaiming, "Great food and service, we had the wedge salad, some sushi rolls, oysters and clam chowder. Everything was really good." Another highlights the overall quality, noting, "Excellent food as always... Great sushi, sides and Caesar salads." King's Fish House's commitment to service and quality makes it a must-visit for sushi lovers in the heart of San Diego.

A photo of Great Maple San Diego restaurant

3. Great Maple San Diego

4.8

Exceptional(4369)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Hillcrest

Booked 46 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.

4. Herb & Wood

4.7

Exceptional(6427)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Little Italy

Booked 71 times today

Herb & Wood in Little Italy, San Diego, epitomizes the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with a delightful twist of Californian flair. Celebrated Chef Brian Malarkey crafts a menu that transforms simple ingredients into a symphony of flavors, all centered around a wood-fired concept that accentuates each dish's rustic, authentic taste. Reviewers consistently praise the restaurant's vibrant atmosphere and innovative dishes, with one guest exclaiming, "The bone marrow and oyster dish was especially impressive!" and another noting the "swordfish was very fresh and tasty." Herb & Wood not only offers a feast for the taste buds but also a Mediterranean dining experience that is both heartfelt and memorable, making it a culinary jewel in San Diego.

A photo of Ironside Fish & Oyster restaurant

5. Ironside Fish & Oyster

4.4

Awesome(4532)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Little Italy

Booked 79 times today

Nestled in the heart of San Diego's vibrant Little Italy, Ironside Fish & Oyster is a gem for seafood enthusiasts. Celebrated for its dedication to the freshest and highest quality seafood, this restaurant has transformed a historic auction house into a bustling seafood haven with an expansive raw bar and open-air culinary hubs. Patrons rave about their "10/10 plump oysters" and assert that the "fish and chips may be the best in San Diego." Not to be missed are their lobster rolls, described as "the best thing I ever had!" With its cool vibe and exceptional service, Ironside Fish & Oyster offers an unforgettable dining experience right by the docks where the city's fishing legacy continues to thrive.

A photo of True Food Kitchen - San Diego FV restaurant

6. True Food Kitchen - San Diego FV

4.5

Awesome(1911)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Mission Valley

Booked 29 times today

True Food Kitchen in San Diego's Fashion Valley is a beacon of farm-to-table cuisine, where the freshness of the farm meets culinary innovation. Founded by Dr. Andrew Weil, this restaurant is celebrated for its commitment to wholesome, nutritious food without compromising on taste. Guests consistently rave about the mouthwatering dishes, such as the "absolutely delicious" Rainbow Trout and the "perfectly cooked" citrus salmon salad. The vibrant and creative menu is crafted with the finest ingredients, ensuring each dish is both healthful and flavorful. Visitors adore the warm, attentive service and the inviting atmosphere, making True Food Kitchen a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine farm-to-table experience in Mission Valley.

7. ARLO San Diego

4.3

Awesome(738)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Mission Valley

Booked 18 times today

At ARLO San Diego, located in the vibrant Mission Valley, the steak cuisine is a testament to culinary excellence. This award-winning destination, celebrated for its "divinely decadent" Wagyu meatloaf and perfectly tender steaks, ensures every meat lover's dream is fulfilled. Guests rave about the quality, with one diner mentioning, "The steak was cooked exactly how asked, and was juicy and perfectly tender." The use of fresh, local ingredients elevates each dish, providing an authentic and memorable dining experience. Whether it's a casual meal or a large group gathering, ARLO's commitment to top-notch cuisine and its quirky, inviting atmosphere make it a must-visit for anyone craving expertly crafted steak in San Diego.

8. Kettner Exchange

4.7

Exceptional(1328)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Little Italy

Booked 38 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.

9. Cowboy Star

4.9

Exceptional(4723)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 41 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.

A photo of Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Fashion Valley restaurant

10. Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Fashion Valley

4.7

Exceptional(557)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Mission Valley

Booked 10 times today

Blanco Cocina + Cantina in Mission Valley, San Diego is a vibrant oasis for cocktail lovers seeking a blend of creativity and tradition. Known for its exceptional Cocktail Bar, Blanco transforms every visit into a mini-vacation with its delightful concoctions. Guests rave about the "spicy skinny margaritas" and the "mango margarita," which is described as "refreshing" with a "smoky salt rim" that adds a unique twist. The atmosphere is consistently praised, with diners highlighting the upbeat and welcoming vibe perfect for "a great date night spot" or a "fun gathering with friends." Blanco's ability to merge a lively environment with meticulously crafted cocktails ensures an unforgettable experience for all its visitors.

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Best Southern American Restaurants in Mission Valley

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142 restaurants available nearby

1. Gravity Heights Mission Valley

2. King's Fish House - Mission Valley

3. Great Maple San Diego

4. Herb & Wood

5. Ironside Fish & Oyster

6. True Food Kitchen - San Diego FV

7. ARLO San Diego

8. Kettner Exchange

9. Cowboy Star

10. Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Fashion Valley

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