Best Southern American Restaurants in Vista

36 restaurants available nearby

1. The Landings

4.6

Exceptional(288)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Carlsbad

Booked 6 times today

The Landings Gastropub is not your typical airport restaurant or bar. We pride ourselves on our focus on quality, service, creativity and atmosphere. Everything from our unique cocktails to our pub-inspired menu and carefully curated craft beer list are locally-sourced and of the highest quality. Both our dining room and large patio have a panoramic view of the Palomar Airport runway. Bring the family, enjoy a cocktail and watch the planes come and go. We accept reservations for groups up to 8 people. Please call for larger parties. Please note: For Friday and Saturday concert nights, we enforce a $30/person minimum to cover the cost of the bands.

2. Campfire

4.8

Exceptional(5258)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Carlsbad

Booked 98 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 Brickmans Restaurant & Bar (formerly The Grill) restaurant

3. Brickmans Restaurant & Bar (formerly The Grill)

4.5

Awesome(146)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • San Marcos

Booked 25 times today

Brickmans epitomizes the essence of a charming golf-side eatery, exuding a laid-back country club ambiance that effortlessly cultivates a sense of camaraderie and relaxation. Serving as a beloved community hub, it seamlessly transitions from the ideal 19th hole for golf enthusiasts to the cozy familiarity of your best friend's living room or the lively charm of your fun uncle's country club.

4. 20|TWENTY

4.2

Awesome(1160)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Carlsbad

Booked 24 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.

5. Ember & Rye

4.6

Exceptional(1227)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Carlsbad

Booked 34 times today

Ember & Rye, nestled on the picturesque 18th green of Aviara Golf Club in Carlsbad, is a prime destination for authentic American cuisine. Acclaimed chef and TV personality Richard Blais has crafted a menu that showcases exceptional steaks and fresh seafood, emphasizing high-quality local ingredients. Patrons rave about the "perfectly cooked" dishes and the "outstanding" service, with one guest noting, "the steak and salmon were delicious!" The vintage clubhouse setting offers a splendid view, enhancing the dining experience. Whether it's for a special occasion or a casual meal, Ember & Rye delivers a culinary delight that is both genuine and innovative in its American offerings.

A photo of Dave & Buster's - Carlsbad restaurant

6. Dave & Buster's - Carlsbad

3.9

Excellent(96)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Carlsbad

Booked 17 times today

Each Dave & Buster’s has more state-of-the-art games than ever, more mouth-watering menu items and the most innovative drinks anywhere. From wings to steaks, we’ve got whatever suits your appetite and our premium bar assures we’re stocked to satisfy! Plus, you can watch your game on one of our massive HDTVs with epic stadium sound.

A photo of Le Papagayo Encinitas restaurant

7. Le Papagayo Encinitas

4.4

Awesome(2259)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Encinitas

Booked 36 times today

Le Papagayo Encinitas, nestled in the charming neighborhood of Encinitas, is a gem for breakfast enthusiasts. This restaurant masterfully blends New American and Pacific Coast cuisine, ensuring that each dish is not only fresh but bursting with unique flavors. Diners rave about the quality of the breakfast offerings, with one noting, "Le Papagayo is not to be missed." The ambiance, enhanced by live unplugged music and a setting that resembles an art gallery, adds a special touch to the morning dining experience. Whether you're indulging in their praised bottomless mimosas or selecting from an eclectic menu, Le Papagayo promises a breakfast that is both delightful and memorable. Make sure to enjoy their outdoor seating for a perfect start to your day in Encinitas.

A photo of King's Fish House - Carlsbad restaurant

8. King's Fish House - Carlsbad

4.7

Exceptional(4016)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Carlsbad

Booked 78 times today

King's Fish House in Carlsbad, established in 2003, is a gem for authentic American seafood. Nestled near local attractions like the Carlsbad Premium Outlets and LEGOLAND, this restaurant offers a fresh, innovative menu that features everything from succulent oysters to live shellfish. Patrons rave about the "world-class gourmet menu" and the "exceptional service," highlighting the restaurant's commitment to quality and comfort. Whether it's the fresh catches changing daily or the family-friendly atmosphere celebrated in reviews, King’s Fish House stands out as a premier destination for seafood lovers. Guests consistently praise the "very good" food and "terrific" service, making it a must-visit for anyone craving an authentic American seafood experience.

9. Matsu

4.8

Exceptional(56)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Oceanside

Booked 15 times today

Matsu in Oceanside is a beacon of Creative Japanese cuisine, offering a delightful exploration of modern culinary artistry while deeply respecting traditional Japanese techniques. Patrons rave about the "stellar and unique" dishes, particularly noting the chef's signature offerings like the Sunflower dish which continues to draw guests back. The restaurant's 10-course tasting menu is a rotating celebration of the seasons, ensuring every visit is a fresh, mesmerizing experience. Enthusiastic reviews highlight the meticulous attention to detail, with one guest proclaiming, "the pairing of wine/sake is highly recommended," enhancing the dining experience. Matsu's ability to blend impeccable service with an intimate, thoughtful ambiance makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking an exceptional meal that is "definitely Michelin worthy."

A photo of Canyons at The Crossings restaurant

10. Canyons at The Crossings

4.4

Awesome(733)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Carlsbad

Booked 13 times today

Canyons at The Crossings in Carlsbad is the go-to spot for top-notch Comfort Food that leaves guests raving about their dining experience. Located with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, this restaurant offers a cozy, rustic atmosphere perfect for any occasion. Patrons frequently commend the "exceptional" food and "beautiful" ambiance, highlighting dishes like the chicken and waffles and short rib hash as "so so good!" The service is praised for being warm and welcoming, with special mentions of attentive staff members like Brandon and Jen. Whether it's the gigantic portions of shareable meals or the $89 prefix-type dinners with perfectly prepared New York steaks and generous crab cakes, Canyons consistently delivers a satisfying culinary delight. This spot is a must-visit for anyone craving genuine, heartwarming Comfort Food.

‘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.

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Best Southern American Restaurants in Vista

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36 restaurants available nearby

1. The Landings

2. Campfire

3. Brickmans Restaurant & Bar (formerly The Grill)

4. 20|TWENTY

5. Ember & Rye

6. Dave & Buster's - Carlsbad

7. Le Papagayo Encinitas

8. King's Fish House - Carlsbad

9. Matsu

10. Canyons at The Crossings

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