Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Downtown
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- $30 and under
- $31 to $50
- $50 and over
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31 restaurants available nearby
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See what locals rave about
- JJillSan Diego •2 reviews5.0Dined 1 day agoElegant setting and presentation of delicious entrees. Servers were lighthearted with great timing. Only wish we would have allowed more time for our meal before running out to catch a show. Great start to a special evening.More infoGrant GrillPrice: Expensive• Californian• Downtown•4.7
- JJoanneGreater Boston •2 reviews5.0Dined 2 days agoC* is our go-to for any special occasion. They make the best steaks of all of San Diego - possibly of all of Southern California! This time around we were celebrating a birthday. C* service is always impeccable - everyone from the host to the waitstaff asked whose birthday it was and wished our birthday guest a happy birthday which was a sweet touch. We got the French Onion Soup to start, the best made anywhere. Also got the 40oz Porterhouse for 2 which was AMAZING - perfect amount for 2 people. Mac & Cheese side, which was a hit and the bacon was a delicious topping. Sticky Toffee Cake for dessert - also very unique and tasty. Can’t go wrong with their cocktail menu either! Our favorites include the C* Old Fashioned, Smoking Gun, and Oaxaca Old Fashioned. We’ll be back soon enough to try out some of the dessert liquors as well!More infoCowboy StarPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Downtown•4.9
- CChristineSan Diego •7 reviews5.0Dined 2 days agoAmazing experience for a special occasion of having mom in town! The three of us indulged in the champagne and caviar experience and our entrees & desert were all amazing. Service was great and will return for another special treat!More infoSaltwaterPrice: Expensive• Seafood• Downtown•4.3
- CCathyVIPSan Diego •48 reviews5.0Dined 2 days agoDid “dinner & show” with 4 grandkids & my daughters for an outing to see The Nutcracker. Valet parking made our somewhat tight schedule on a Friday night easier. Kids loved the Brussels sprouts & charcuterie plate. Daughter finessed Shirley Temples for the kids, bartender was unsure, probably not a huge call for them. This was repeat for us, did the matinee with lunch last year. Good food, drinks, great service!More infoBronze BirdPrice: Moderate• Californian• Downtown•4.6
- AAbrahamSan Diego •1 review5.0Dined on Aug 24, 2024El After Social Club is a hidden gem! The food was simply amazing, with bold flavors and beautiful presentation. The atmosphere was cozy yet stylish, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed evening. The service was excellent, with a staff that truly knows their menu. I highly recommend it and can’t wait to return!More infoEl After Social ClubPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Downtown•5
Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Downtown
Discover the vibrant contemporary American dining scene in Downtown San Diego, where culinary creativity meets urban flair. This bustling area is home to a variety of restaurants that skillfully fuse traditional American cuisine with modern, innovative twists. Each establishment in Downtown San Diego offers a unique dining experience, from chic, upscale atmospheres to more casual and inviting settings, catering to a diverse array of palates and preferences. Patrons can expect a high standard of service, quality ingredients, and expertly crafted dishes that highlight the best of local and seasonal produce. The dining scene here is not only about great food but also about creating memorable experiences, whether you're enjoying a casual meal or celebrating a special occasion. With an emphasis on freshness, innovation, and exceptional service, Downtown San Diego's contemporary American restaurants are a must-visit for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike.