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Best Californian Restaurants in Ocean Beach

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54 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Herb & Wood restaurant
1. Herb & Wood
4.7
Exceptional(6595)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Little Italy
Booked 112 times today
Herb & Wood in San Diego's vibrant Little Italy is a shining example of exquisite American cuisine. Celebrated Chef Brian Malarkey crafts a menu that elevates rustic, wood-fired dishes, blending Mediterranean flair with California's commitment to seasonality and sustainability. Diners rave about the "incredible dinner" experience, showcasing "amazing, flavorful food" and "outstanding service." The ambiance is described as "beautiful" and "welcoming," making every visit memorable. Signature dishes like the pork belly and filet mignon are praised for their exceptional taste. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a night out, Herb & Wood promises a "truly memorable culinary experience."
A photo of Dockside 1953 restaurant
2. Dockside 1953
4.6
Exceptional(639)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Mission Beach
Booked 13 times today
Dockside 1953, nestled along the picturesque Mission Bay in San Diego, offers an unparalleled seafood experience that is both authentic and fresh. Known for its dedication to high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, the restaurant's seafood dishes are a true testament to coastal cuisine. "The food was outstanding," raves one delighted guest, praising the exceptional preparation of their meal. Diners frequently highlight the "perfectly prepared" sea bass and the exquisite shrimp cocktail as standout dishes. With its stunning bay views and cozy outdoor fire pits, Dockside 1953 provides not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight, making it a must-visit destination for seafood lovers.
A photo of Paradisaea restaurant
3. Paradisaea
4.7
Exceptional(610)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • La Jolla
Booked 37 times today
Paradisaea in the heart of Bird Rock, La Jolla, offers an unparalleled Contemporary American dining experience that delights with its “creative and delicious” culinary creations. This destination restaurant is celebrated for its “outstanding food and service,” making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Guests rave about the chef’s ability to craft “custom vegan and pescatarian multi-course meals,” showcasing the restaurant's commitment to inclusivity and innovation. With an ambiance that is both “hip and fun,” Paradisaea artfully combines “delicious food and cocktails” with a vibrant atmosphere, ensuring every visit is a memorable culinary adventure. Highly recommended for those seeking modern American cuisine at its finest.
A photo of Animae restaurant
4. Animae
4.7
Exceptional(3366)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Downtown
Booked 76 times today
Animae, nestled in the heart of Downtown San Diego, is a shining beacon of Californian cuisine, masterfully intertwined with Asian influences. Celebrated Chef Brian Malarkey elevates the dining experience by harnessing the essence of California cooking, using local produce and seasonal ingredients in every dish. The restaurant's coal-fired oven and grill bring a delightful depth to creations like the "melt-in-your-mouth" A5 Wagyu and the "incredibly flavorful" tomahawk tocino, leaving diners in awe. Animae's vibrant atmosphere and artful presentation make it a "must-visit" for those seeking an authentic and innovative taste of California's culinary landscape.
A photo of ZENTRL Kitchen + Bar - Liberty Station restaurant
5. ZENTRL Kitchen + Bar - Liberty Station
4.0
Excellent(663)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Point Loma
Booked 3 times today
ZENTRL Kitchen + Bar, located in the vibrant heart of Liberty Station, offers an extraordinary Asian culinary experience that is a true delight for the senses. Known for its "amazing food" and "outstanding service," this restaurant blends California-Asian fusion with a touch of Mexican flair, resulting in unique dishes like Grilled Miso Salmon and Adobada Pork Belly Bao Bun. Guests revel in the "cool vibe" and "great ambiance," making it a perfect spot for any occasion. Whether you're enjoying their Asian-inspired cocktails or indulging in a delicious brunch, ZENTRL promises an unforgettable dining experience in Point Loma, San Diego.
A photo of Red Marlin - Hyatt Regency Mission Bay restaurant
6. Red Marlin - Hyatt Regency Mission Bay
4.0
Excellent(649)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Mission Bay
Booked 3 times today
Choose from a variety of Red Marlin's coastal inspired dishes as you dine with a 360 view of Mission Bay, including breakfast fare in the mornings and an upscale dining experience in the evening. Red Marlin’s menus feature seasonal American cuisine including steak and sustainable seafood entrees.
A photo of Kettner Exchange restaurant
7. Kettner Exchange
4.7
Exceptional(1430)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Little Italy
Booked 64 times today
Kettner Exchange in Little Italy, San Diego, offers an exceptional Asian fusion experience that is both inventive and authentic. Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski’s creations have earned the restaurant a coveted spot on the Michelin Guide's Bib Gourmand list since 2019, showcasing high-quality meals at accessible prices. Diners rave about the "spicy garlic noodles" and "juicy cheeseburger special," underscoring the delightful fusion of flavors. The rooftop patio with stunning harbor views enhances the dining ambiance, making it perfect for any occasion. Guests frequently praise the "stellar service" and "amazing cocktails," solidifying Kettner Exchange as a must-visit destination for Asian cuisine enthusiasts.
A photo of World Famous restaurant
8. World Famous
4.6
Exceptional(1042)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Pacific Beach
Booked 16 times today
World Famous in Pacific Beach, San Diego is an unparalleled destination for authentic Seafood cuisine. This surfside gem offers market-fresh Pacific seafood, ensuring every dish is bursting with flavor and sustainability. Diners rave about the "lobster bisque with sherry" and "calamares frito," highlighting the restaurant's commitment to quality. With a prime location right on the beach, guests enjoy stunning ocean views while indulging in exquisite Seafood creations. The lobster salad and lobster BLT receive glowing reviews, with one diner stating, "The lobster melted in your mouth." World Famous is a must-visit for Seafood lovers seeking a memorable dining experience.
A photo of Ironside Fish & Oyster restaurant
9. Ironside Fish & Oyster
4.6
Exceptional(4641)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Little Italy
Booked 88 times today
Ironside Fish & Oyster in San Diego's Little Italy is a quintessential hotspot for authentic American cuisine, seamlessly blending traditional and contemporary flavors. This gem pays homage to its roots in the fishing industry with a mouthwatering menu that features renowned dishes such as the lobster roll and clam chowder, praised for being “chock full of clams.” The vibrant atmosphere and top-notch service are frequently highlighted in reviews, with one diner noting the “excellent experience, food, and ambience.” With a stellar raw bar and an enticing happy hour, Ironside promises a “delightful experience” that diners find irresistible.
A photo of Tom Hams Lighthouse restaurant
10. Tom Hams Lighthouse
4.6
Exceptional(6716)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Downtown
Booked 44 times today
Tom Ham’s Lighthouse is a beacon of excellence in Californian cuisine, nestled in the heart of Downtown San Diego. Celebrated for its 100% responsibly sourced seafood menu, it offers diners a true taste of California, enhanced by breathtaking views of the San Diego Bay and skyline. Guests rave about the "wonderful food" and "spectacular views," making it a must-visit for locals and visitors alike. The dining experience is complemented by a stellar Sunday Champagne Brunch, lauded as "one of the best buffets in San Diego." With a legacy of dining excellence since 1971, Tom Ham's is a quintessential Californian culinary destination.
‘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.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • RockVIP
    Los Angeles •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    The most beautiful dinning experience!! We can't wait to go again.
    More info
    ParadisaeaPrice: Very Expensive• Californian• La Jolla
    •
    4.7
  • OpenTable Diner
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    The foods were great. It was my best salmon steak in my life. And view of mission bay was awesome.
    More info
    Dockside 1953Price: Moderate• Californian• Mission Beach
    •
    4.6
  • JoVIP
    New Orleans / Louisiana •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We were only in San Diego for 24 hours, and Animae was the perfect foodie destination for our short trip. Chef Tara’s menu masterfully stays true to Filipino flavors while elevating them in a way that feels both nostalgic and exciting. Every dish was beautifully executed, and the balance of flavors was impeccable. Our server, Chenise, made the experience even more memorable. She was incredibly attentive and knowledgeable, guiding us through the menu with thoughtful recommendations. She kept the pacing and coursing of our meal just right, ensuring we could fully enjoy each dish without feeling rushed. The cocktails were another highlight - both inventive and perfectly balanced. Each drink complemented the food beautifully, and we could absolutely see ourselves coming back just to sit at the bar and work our way through the cocktail menu. From start to finish, Animae delivered on every level—food, service, and ambiance. If you’re looking for a truly special dining experience in San Diego, this is it. We’ll definitely be back next time we’re in town!
    More info
    AnimaePrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary Asian• Downtown
    •
    4.7
  • GibsonVIP
    Dallas - Fort Worth •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Amazing meal, start to finish. Each course was perfectly executed.
    More info
    Herb & WoodPrice: Expensive• Californian• Little Italy
    •
    4.7
  • OpenTable Diner
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Mar 3, 2025
    We usually host an Oscar Party, but decided to go out this year instead…it was great!
    More info
    ZENTRL Kitchen + Bar - Liberty StationPrice: Expensive• Californian• Point Loma
    •
    4

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