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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Downtown

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38 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Huntress restaurant
1. Huntress
4.6
Exceptional(861)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 39 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 STK- San Diego restaurant
2. STK- San Diego
4.3
Awesome(3431)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 38 times today
STK Steakhouse is “not your daddy’s steakhouse,” offering a high-energy dining experience that artfully combines the superior quality of a traditional steakhouse with a Vibe Dining atmosphere unlike any other. Delectable cuisine, upscale cocktails and an elevated Happy Hour, along with an in-house DJ and chic décor, all come together to offer a memorable fine dining experience that keeps guests enjoying their evening from drinks to dinner to late night. STK’s menu features reimagined classic American cuisine for lunch, brunch and dinner with unique local flair infused into each location’s menu. The brand’s beef program focuses on the highest quality, delicious and craveable steaks while emphasizing transparency and traceable sourcing practices.
A photo of The Melting Pot - Gaslamp Quarter restaurant
3. The Melting Pot - Gaslamp Quarter
4.6
Exceptional(2604)
Price: Very Expensive
• Fondue • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 28 times today
Welcome to The Melting Pot San Diego Gaslamp. Located on 5th Ave & E St in the historic Gaslamp Plaza Suites, the San Diego - Gaslamp Melting Pot Restaurant brings a truly unique, romantic and interactive four-course fondue dining experience to San Diego's vibrant downtown dining scene!
A photo of Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge restaurant
4. Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge
4.3
Awesome(650)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary Italian • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 29 times today
Located in the heart of Downtown San Diego near the marina district, Salvatore's inspired by the elegant minimalist details of nature. Salvatores is walking distance from the San Diego convention center and downtown hotel/resort district. The kitchen draws influence from the shores of the Mediterranean and Italy, while creating a visionary express of flavorful and modern California Mediterranean cuisine. Salvatores San Diego embodies a multi-sensory culinary sanctuary for our guests to escape, disconnect and have a great time. EUDAIMONIA' the contended, happy state you feel when you travel.
A photo of C-Level restaurant
5. C-Level
4.7
Exceptional(5097)
Price: Expensive
• Cocktail Bar • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 99 times today
Resting on stilts atop San Diego By C Level Lounge, is an upscale-casual lounge on the waterfront overlooking the city skyline and Coronado.
A photo of Alexander's on 30th restaurant
6. Alexander's on 30th
4.7
Exceptional(3152)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • North Park
Booked 60 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 Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar restaurant
7. Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar
4.7
Exceptional(195)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Little Italy
Booked 16 times today
Authentic Baja-style, ceviche, and oyster restaurant. Unique tostadas, oysters, tiradito, clams
A photo of Craft Bar Kamon restaurant
8. Craft Bar Kamon
4.9
Exceptional(209)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 29 times today
"Taisho Roman craft cocktail bar in the heart of East Village San Diego that reflects the period in Japan when traditionalism and modernism first converged. We are committed to offer the unique and best craft cocktails! **To make a reservation for a party of 6 or more, please contact us through email at info@barkamon.com Please refrain from booking multiple tables as we most likely won't be able to accommodate to seat together.**Please be aware that table or bar seating selection is just a request and it is not a confirmation. We will try our best to accommodate but due to limited seating availability, you may be seated to a different section from what you have requested at the reservation.
A photo of Marina Kitchen - San Diego Marriott Marquis & Marina restaurant
9. Marina Kitchen - San Diego Marriott Marquis & Marina
4.3
Awesome(416)
Price: Expensive
• Comfort Food • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 18 times today
Marina Kitchen at the San Diego Marriott Marquis & Marina is a gem of a restaurant that's worth the drive. With its dynamic, chic, and comfortable atmosphere, it's not just a place to eat, but also a place to relax, socialize, and take in the sights and sounds of the vibrant coastline. Reviewers rave about the quality and freshness of the food, with one saying 'the menu is limited and sticks to old standbys, but there are some hidden gems.' Another praised the excellent service, saying 'the food was delicious, especially the Brussels sprouts and burratta appetizer.' So, if you're in the mood for some old-fashioned comfort food with a contemporary twist, Marina Kitchen is the place to be!
A photo of Claim Jumper - San Diego - Bayside restaurant
10. Claim Jumper - San Diego - Bayside
4.2
Awesome(578)
Price: Moderate
• American • Little Italy
Booked 3 times today
Our friendly environment is ideal for celebrating special occasions, hosting a business lunch or gathering for a delicious meal with friends and family. Our saloons are a comfortable gathering place to relax after a day at work, to catch a game or share an appetizer with friends. The saloon menu features signature cocktails, chilled martinis, premium and ultra-premium spirits, specialty non-alcoholic beverages, an extensive wine list, and imported and American craft beers including Claim Jumper’s own Honey Blonde, Original Red Ale and IPA. In addition to the saloon menu Claim Jumper offers a Steakhouse menu which includes USDA Prime steaks and premium house made shareable sides. Open daily for lunch and dinner, Claim Jumper offers a selection of freshly prepared items using only the finest ingredients available. Favorites include Certified Angus Beef®, fresh fish, baby back pork ribs, fresh baked pot pie, specialty salads, pasta, sandwiches, burgers and more.

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Discover best worth the drive restaurants in Downtown

Discover the culinary gems of Downtown San Diego that are "worth the drive" for an unforgettable dining experience. Each restaurant featured in this collection offers unique flavors and impeccable service, making them stand out in the vibrant San Diego dining scene. Whether you're craving fresh seafood, authentic Mediterranean dishes, or innovative Japanese cuisine, these establishments promise a meal that more than justifies the journey. With their strategic locations in the heart of Downtown San Diego, they provide not only a feast for the taste buds but also a delightful ambiance that encapsulates the lively spirit of the area. Visitors and locals alike agree that these dining spots enhance any trip to San Diego with their commitment to quality and hospitality. Experience the diverse culinary landscape of Downtown San Diego, where each restaurant offers a distinct and memorable dining adventure.

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