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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in La Mesa

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30 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Antica Trattoria restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2411)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary Italian • La Mesa
Booked 23 times today
Antica Trattoria is a warm restaurant with an old-fashioned sense of hospitality that quickly became a gathering place for dinners in Lake Murray and the rest of San Diego when it opened in 2001. For Executive Chef and Owner Francesco Basile, good cuisine is about honest flavors, fresh ingredients, and simplicity. That's the kind of food he grew up eating by the seaside in Sicily and it's what he learned in culinary school in Italy.Why eat ordinary when you can eat extraordinary?About reservations: We have a 15-minute grace period. Please call us if you will be running later than 15 minutes. If a later time slot is available, you may be able to switch your reservation.We may contact you, so please ensure your email and phone number are up to date. Your table will be reserved for 1 hour 30 minutes for parties of up to 4 guests; 2 hours for parties of 5 to 8 guests; and 2 hours 30 minutes for parties of 9+. We cannot guarantee special request for tables.
A photo of Farmer's Table - La Mesa restaurant
4.3
Awesome(2033)
Price: Moderate
• Farm-to-table • La Mesa
Booked 34 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
4.6
Exceptional(1089)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Lemon Grove
Booked 30 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 Limoncello La Mesa restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(319)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • North Park
Booked 20 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 Lemon Grove Bistro restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(93)
Price: Moderate
• American • Lemon Grove
Booked 5 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.
A photo of Herb & Wood restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(6546)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Little Italy
Booked 104 times today
A timeless, sought-after dining escape, celebrated Chef Brian Malarkey opened Herb & Wood to instant acclaim over four years ago. In that time, the restaurant has become an icon, a dining destination that has helped to propel San Diego's culinary reputation to new heights. By focusing on rustic, wood-fired dishes, Chef Malarkey's menu elevates humble ingredients such as carrots, beets, and chicken, incorporating Mediterranean flavors and a California ethos of seasonality and sustainability.
A photo of Alexander's on 30th restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(3127)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • North Park
Booked 250 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 Huntress restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(833)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 43 times today
Huntress is the most adventurous and energetic modern steakhouse in downtown San Diego, offering the finest cuts of meat, one of the largest collections of Japanese whisky brands in California, and a contemporary, lively atmosphere where music elevates every dish.
A photo of Brigantine at Portside Pier restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(4298)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 87 times today
The Brigantine is more than just home to some of San Diego’s finest seafood. It’s a place where locals and visitors alike come to share a lively atmosphere and authentic sense of community. The Morton family opened the first Brigantine on Shelter Island in 1969, with a vision that embraced the beach town lifestyle, a dedication to flavorful food, and a passion for friendly service. Today, we’re known far and wide for our San Diego-style surf and turf. From our award-winning fish tacos and freshly shucked oysters, to classic filet mignon or our perpetually best-selling marinated grilled swordfish. Always prepared to exceed expectations, and served with a smile. You can stop in at any neighborhood Brigantine and get a taste of the local flavor, from regionally inspired specials, to custom cocktails and home town craft beers. At the Brigantine we make first timers feel like regulars, and consider regulars part of the family. So come by often, and share our taste for life.
A photo of Louisiana Purchase SD restaurant
4.5
Awesome(728)
Price: Expensive
• Creole / Cajun / Southern • North Park
Booked 51 times today
Conveniently set on Louisiana Street in North Park, our design of this intimate cocktail restaurant was inspired by the charm &; character of New Orleans, with creative touches of personal effects giving guests the feeling of warmth, community & fun Architect Jeff Svitak helped create a modern interpretation of a classic French Quarter restaurant, introducing elements of wood, marble &; rich velvet. Our lush patio seating flows seamlessly into our indoor dining space, a nod to the courtyards found across the beautiful southern city.Our rotating food menu will be dedicated to only the best seasonal ingredients, featuring big &; bold flavors from the region. Executive Chef Quinnton Austin recently relocated to San Diego from New Orleans, bringing with him an exciting wealth of knowledge &; experience in the culinary melting pot that defines southern cuisineAlligator Cheesecake, Andouille Fried Red Beans & Rice w/Chipotle Mousse, &

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • OpenTable Diner
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We loved the food and the service. The atmosphere was a little different, very loud almost sounded artificially so and it was just too dark to appreciate the food. 10% more light could really be the difference here.
    More info
    Herb & WoodPrice: Expensive• Californian• Little Italy
    4.7
  • Jim
    San Diego •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Always a great experience from the food to the service and ambience. A great place for that special, but laid back experience.
    More info
    The Melting Pot - Gaslamp QuarterPrice: Very Expensive• Fondue• Downtown / Gaslamp
    4.7
  • MaureenVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •15 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Huntress has one of the highest value weekday Happy Hours in town. My favorites are the $10 lobster curry soup and the $10 steak tartare tacos. They have several cocktails and wines priced at $9 each. Check the website for Happy Hour times. The service is always great from Ray at the host stand to Bellisario who hosts and is also a server, John the server, and Danny and Daylan the bartender. There is a wonderful team from the kitchen running your orders too. I love the atmosphere and music--the light features are gorgeous. Huntress is trendy yet welcoming and it's a fun night out.
    More info
    HuntressPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Downtown / Gaslamp
    4.6
  • TinaVIP
    San Diego •92 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jan 30, 2025
    This was our first time dining at this restaurant. We tried seven different items and every single one of them was wonderful. We will be back. 
    More info
    Crudo Ceviche & Oyster BarPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Little Italy
    4.7
  • MilindaVIP
    San Diego •50 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jan 23, 2025
    From the moment we got there the service was great. The food was awesome and it was nice and quiet. We were a group of 10 and our server took care of us in a great way we never needed anything. He was right there.
    More info
    Lemon Grove BistroPrice: Moderate• American• Lemon Grove
    4.8

Discover best worth the drive restaurants in La Mesa

Discover a selection of delightful dining experiences in La Mesa, East County San Diego, where each restaurant offers something uniquely "worth the drive." Whether you're in the mood for robust Italian flavors or authentic Mexican cuisine, the local dining scene in La Mesa caters to a variety of palates with restaurants that emphasize quality, authenticity, and a memorable atmosphere. These establishments not only serve excellent food but also provide a warm, inviting environment, complemented by attentive service that makes each meal special. The dining scene here is characterized by its commitment to authenticity and a fusion of both local and international culinary traditions, ensuring that every dish is not only delicious but also a true representation of its roots. This area is a hidden gem for food lovers seeking places that go beyond the ordinary, making each dining out experience truly exceptional. Whether it's the carefully crafted dishes or the cozy ambiances, these restaurants promise to deliver a dining experience that is definitely worth the drive.

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