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Best Lunch Restaurants in College Area

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155 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Madi restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(402)
Price: Moderate
• Breakfast • Kensington
Booked 27 times today
Bringing all-day brunch and grab-and-go coffee to Normal Heights, Madi is the upcoming daytime counterpart to Madison on Park, the well-established mid-century modern restaurant and bar that opened in University Heights in 2015. Offering a quick-service coffee counter fueled by Heartwork Coffee out of Mission Hills that’ll feature the full range of espresso drinks, specialty beverages, and tea as well as fresh pastries, Madi will also be an anytime option for sit-down breakfasts, mimosa-powered brunches, and casual lunches.Its breakfast menu ranges from waffle churro sticks and breakfast burritos to skirt steak eggs Benedict and a variety of pancakes based on a 60-year-old recipe from Madison co-owner Matthew, whose family runs a century-old breakfast spot in the midwest.Lunch will hinge on build-your-own grain and salad bowls along with lettuce wraps, ceviche, a burger, and a classic Tuna Melt!
A photo of One Door North restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(500)
Price: Moderate
• American • North Park
Booked 25 times today
At One Door North we host a New American Bar and Eatery that pays homage to the outdoors with the spirit of adventure, serving only fresh farm to table cuisine. Come enjoy the adventure with us, we look forward to serving you.
A photo of Brigantine La Mesa restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(4148)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • La Mesa
Booked 43 times today
A San Diego tradition since 1969, the Brigantine has received many accolades in our 40+ year history: "BEST SEAFOOD", "BEST CASUAL SEAFOOD", "BEST HAPPY HOUR", and even "BEST SWORDFISH IN THE WORLD", according to USA Today - just to name a few.Well-known for our signature Clam Chowder, Grilled Swordfish, and Crème Brûlée, the Brigantine is a favorite among locals for consistently fresh seafood, succulent steaks and grilled meats. With an updated nautical decor, the busy Oyster bar is hands-down the local favorite. Lush flowering foliage outdoors creates an elegant dining experience on one of two charming patios.The La Mesa Brigantine serves dinner 7 nights a week, lunch Monday-Saturday, and brunch every Sunday.Join us for our signature Happy Hour.
A photo of Alexander's on 30th restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(3065)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • North Park
Booked 65 times today
Neighborhood gem located in the heart of the Historic North Park District, adjoining Balboa Park and the world famous San Diego Zoo. Specializing in homestyle Italian with Gourmet Flair. Hand made Pastas, Award Winning Pizza and Voted Best of Restaurants by San Diego Magazine "Most Romantic". Listed as Top 25 Places to Eat in San Diego "Before You Die" by San Diego Union Tribune. Make memorable celebrations on our beautiful patio, the perfect ambiance for any occasion. Remember to try our diners favorites, The Theodore's Fix Pizza and Baked Vodka Bolognese.Look forward to serving you soon!
A photo of Aromi Italian Cuisine restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(232)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • La Mesa
Booked 23 times today
Discover Aromi, where Italian authenticity meets affordability. Our casual Italian restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, serving up delicious dishes bursting with flavors at budget-friendly prices. From traditional pasta classics to mouthwatering entrees, Aromi ensures an unforgettable dining experience that won't break the bank.
A photo of Limoncello La Mesa restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(286)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • North Park
Booked 22 times today
Welcome to Limoncello, your go-to destination for authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of La Mesa. At Limoncello, we pride ourselves on delivering a true taste of Italy with our carefully curated menu inspired by traditional family recipes passed down through generations. Our dishes showcase the rich flavors of Italy, crafted using only the finest and freshest ingredients sourced locally and from Italy. From classic pasta dishes to mouthwatering pizzas and delectable desserts, each plate is a celebration of Italian culinary heritage. Come savor the warmth and hospitality of Italy right here in La Mesa at Limoncello, where every meal is a journey to the heart of Italian flavors.
A photo of Farmer's Table - La Mesa restaurant
4.4
Awesome(2001)
Price: Moderate
• Farm-to-table • La Mesa
Booked 24 times today
Excited to announce that we officially have four locations open in San Diego including Bay Park, Little Italy, La Mesa, and Chula Vista. As a family run operation we believe every good neighborhood deserves an eatery where locals and visitors can enjoy “honest food done right”. Here at Farmers Table, we specialize in farm-to-fork cuisine that focuses on bringing locally sourced organic ingredients together to be savored in an inviting family-friendly atmosphere, where adults and children can enjoy many different food options that are just right for them. If you are looking for a magical brunch this week, come stop by for an unforgettable night.
A photo of Giardino Neighborhood Cucina restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(1058)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Lemon Grove
Booked 25 times today
Located in the middle of Lemon Grove’s charming downtown area, Giardino is a welcoming and casual Italian inspired cucina where the neighborhood gathers for fresh and flavorful classic dishes found throughout Italy.Giardino offers an Italian-inspired menu of seasonally-driven dishes that use timeless Italian techniques and fresh ingredients. Guests will find items such as fresh seafood, pastas, pizzas and salads, as well as a variety of elements made in-house.
A photo of El Torito - La Mesa restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(427)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • La Mesa
Booked 8 times today
The authority in great Mexican food for more than 65 years. Offering a memorable experience to make each guest feel like family.
A photo of Lemon Grove Bistro restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(81)
Price: Moderate
• American • Lemon Grove
Booked 3 times today
In addition to offering comforting American favorites, our menu provides a selection of flavors inspired by our chef’s culinary experiences, ranging from classic Spanish fare to Italian favorites. Our menu changes seasonally to feature the freshest ingredients and provide an exciting dining experience throughout the year.The Lemon Grove Bistro is in a historic mission-style building in the heart of Lemon Grove. Since 1912, it’s been a place where locals meet and build connections, whether they were picking up their mail at the Sonka General Store in 1944 or ordering custom cakes at the Grove Pastry Shop in 2012. Come for the food. Stay to experience the inviting ambiance of the historic building and its new garden. Let’s build community--together.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Julia
    San Diego •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We came in last night and had a wonderful experience. Our server was Alessandra and she was just amazing. First off the place is so cute & trendy, I love what they did with the space. We started our meal with the fritto misto (mixed calamari & veggies), fungo ripieno (mushroom w artichoke, red sauce & polenta) which was my personal favorite (the polenta was to die for) and the crispy burrata. We ate everything and left no crumbs ! Then we went on to our main courses. We ordered the fettuccine tartufo (mushroom & truffle - our tables favorite), spicy vodka pasta, ragu Della Nonna (red sauce with meat), and the parmigiana Milanese (eggplant Parmesan). Everything was delicious. The pasta was cooked perfect & al dente, we ate what we could & took the rest home! Then came dessert. It was my father’s birthday and they offered us a dessert of our choice, Alessandra recommended the fresh made table side tiramisu -good choice. Flavors were so well balanced. We also ordered the cannoli and was one of my favorite cannolis ever! Needless to say we will be coming back again! Thank you for the great dinner.
    More info
    Aromi Italian CuisinePrice: Moderate• Italian• La Mesa
    4.6
  • judi
    San Diego •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Great lunch w a friend that I haven’t seen in years! We were allowed a leisurely unhurried delicious lunch.
    More info
    Brigantine La MesaPrice: Moderate• Seafood• La Mesa
    4.8
  • OpenTable Diner
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 15, 2024
    Food was amazing wait staff was nice no complaints just a very hot spot so expect it to be packed
    More info
    MadiPrice: Moderate• Breakfast• Kensington
    4.6
  • Annvip
    San Francisco Bay Area •22 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 13, 2024
    Really delicious food! Did not disappoint. Don't be fooled by the casual atmosphere this is a solid foodie place!
    More info
    One Door NorthPrice: Moderate• American• North Park
    4.6
  • Brigitte
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 12, 2024
    Food is insanely delicious, service is excellent, and the ambience is lovely. Went to dinner with a few friends and we were able to share a bunch of dishes. Everything was amazing. It’s about a 30 minute drive for us but well worth it. We had the bruschetta (so yummy and full of garlic), the seafood stuffed mushrooms (to die for), and the Caesar salad, which was the best Caesar I’ve ever had. We ordered a bunch of pasta dishes and the fish special (amazing) which were also super tasty. I HIGHLY recommend it! Oh and the cookie dessert is incredible too.
    More info
    Alexander's on 30thPrice: Expensive• Italian• North Park
    4.7
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