Best Southwest American Restaurants in Vista

41 restaurants available nearby

1. The Landings

4.6

Exceptional(288)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Carlsbad

Booked 28 times today

The Landings Gastropub is not your typical airport restaurant or bar. We pride ourselves on our focus on quality, service, creativity and atmosphere. Everything from our unique cocktails to our pub-inspired menu and carefully curated craft beer list are locally-sourced and of the highest quality. Both our dining room and large patio have a panoramic view of the Palomar Airport runway. Bring the family, enjoy a cocktail and watch the planes come and go. We accept reservations for groups up to 8 people. Please call for larger parties. Please note: For Friday and Saturday concert nights, we enforce a $30/person minimum to cover the cost of the bands.

2. Campfire

4.8

Exceptional(5271)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Carlsbad

Booked 81 times today

Campfire in Carlsbad is a beacon of authentic American cuisine, seamlessly blending traditional flavors with innovative techniques. Known for its market-driven, live-fire cooking, Campfire truly captures the essence of American dining. Guests rave about the "outstanding dining experience," highlighting the "spectacular food" and "warm, cozy, friendly" atmosphere. Signature dishes like the ribeye steak and broccoli have earned accolades such as "best I've ever tasted." The attentive service is frequently praised, making diners feel not only welcomed but celebrated. With its rustic charm and delectable menu, Campfire is a must-try for anyone seeking a genuine taste of America.

A photo of Brickmans Restaurant & Bar (formerly The Grill) restaurant

3. Brickmans Restaurant & Bar (formerly The Grill)

4.5

Awesome(152)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • San Marcos

Booked 8 times today

Brickmans epitomizes the essence of a charming golf-side eatery, exuding a laid-back country club ambiance that effortlessly cultivates a sense of camaraderie and relaxation. Serving as a beloved community hub, it seamlessly transitions from the ideal 19th hole for golf enthusiasts to the cozy familiarity of your best friend's living room or the lively charm of your fun uncle's country club.

4. 20|TWENTY

4.1

Excellent(1160)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Carlsbad

Booked 11 times today

20|TWENTY in Carlsbad serves up a remarkable Contemporary American dining experience that is both authentic and innovative. Under the expert guidance of Chef Jason Luke, the restaurant crafts minimalistic dishes that celebrate the freshness and seasonality of Southern California's bounty. Patrons rave about the "excellent food made with unique ingredients and combinations," with dishes like the beet salad and short ribs leaving a lasting impression. The ambiance is described as "chill and unpretentious," making it perfect for any occasion. With stunning Pacific coastline views and a commitment to quality, 20|TWENTY offers a culinary journey you won't want to miss.

5. Ember & Rye

4.6

Exceptional(1234)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • Carlsbad

Booked 35 times today

Ember & Rye in Carlsbad offers an authentic American dining experience that beautifully blends tradition with modern flair, making it a standout in American cuisine. Located by the picturesque Aviara Golf Club, this Richard Blais steakhouse delights diners with "delicious delicious" dishes, from expertly cooked steaks to fresh seafood. Guests rave about the "5-star dining" quality paired with "impeccable service," making it perfect for special occasions or a casual meal. Highlights include the Denver steak, described as "to die for," and unique offerings like the corn crème brûlée. With its inviting ambiance and exceptional culinary creations, Ember & Rye is a must-visit.

A photo of Dave & Buster's - Carlsbad restaurant

6. Dave & Buster's - Carlsbad

3.8

Excellent(98)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Carlsbad

Booked 7 times today

Each Dave & Buster’s has more state-of-the-art games than ever, more mouth-watering menu items and the most innovative drinks anywhere. From wings to steaks, we’ve got whatever suits your appetite and our premium bar assures we’re stocked to satisfy! Plus, you can watch your game on one of our massive HDTVs with epic stadium sound.

A photo of Le Papagayo Encinitas restaurant

7. Le Papagayo Encinitas

4.4

Awesome(2263)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Encinitas

Booked 33 times today

Le Papagayo Encinitas offers an exquisite Mediterranean dining experience that has locals and visitors raving about its culinary delights. Known for its "delicious food, great atmosphere," and "outstanding service," this restaurant expertly crafts dishes using the freshest local ingredients. Guests are enchanted by the flavors of their Lobster Bisque, Paella, and Patatas Bravas, each described as "knocking it out of the park on flavor!" The ambiance is further enriched by live music, creating a vibrant yet cozy atmosphere. Situated in charming Encinitas, Le Papagayo is a "local favorite" that promises an unforgettable taste of the Mediterranean.

A photo of King's Fish House - Carlsbad restaurant

8. King's Fish House - Carlsbad

4.7

Exceptional(4030)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Carlsbad

Booked 71 times today

King's Fish House in Carlsbad offers a quintessential American seafood experience that has been delighting diners since 2003. Nestled near the Carlsbad Premium Outlets and LEGOLAND, this restaurant prides itself on serving "excellent seafood with many options," as one reviewer noted enthusiastically. With a commitment to quality and freshness, the menu boasts a variety of dishes, from perfectly cooked trout to the best clam chowder around. Patrons rave about the "great service" and "wonderful atmosphere," making it a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike. Experience the essence of American seafood dining at its finest at King's Fish House.

A photo of Black Rail Kitchen + Bar restaurant

9. Black Rail Kitchen + Bar

4.5

Awesome(308)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Carlsbad

Booked 22 times today

Black Rail Kitchen + Bar in Carlsbad is a delightful haven for Mediterranean cuisine lovers. Under the expert guidance of Michoacán-born executive chef Moises Hernandez, the restaurant offers an exciting fusion of flavors that showcase the authenticity of Mediterranean cooking. Diners rave about the "extremely flavorful" lamb meatballs and the "sweetest and most scrumptious" whole fried fish, which highlights the exceptional quality of the dishes. The vibrant atmosphere, accentuated by live jazz music and a welcoming outdoor patio with heaters, makes every visit a memorable experience. Black Rail Kitchen + Bar is not only a neighborhood favorite but a true Mediterranean gem.

10. Matsu

4.7

Exceptional(59)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • Oceanside

Booked 6 times today

Matsu, located in the heart of Oceanside, is a remarkable gem offering exquisite American cuisine with a unique fusion twist. Known for its meticulously crafted 10-course tasting menu, the restaurant is celebrated for its “phenomenal experience” and “outstanding” service, making it a standout choice for fine dining enthusiasts. Chef William Eick’s culinary innovations ensure that every dish is a masterpiece, artfully blending American flavors with a nod to Japanese aesthetics. Guests rave about the “extraordinary” flavors and the impeccable wine pairings, making Matsu a must-visit for anyone seeking a memorable dining experience that elevates American cuisine to new heights.

‘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

N
Nicole
Phoenix / Arizona •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
The staff was very attentive to our group of 11. We were pleased with the quality of food and the time it took to prepare.
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Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Fashion ValleyPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Mission Valley
•
4.8
P
PatrickVIP
San Diego •24 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Our dinner was delicious and our waiter, Miquel, was great!
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Blanco Cocina + Cantina - CoronadoPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Coronado
•
4.7
D
DeniseVIP
San Diego •140 reviews
5.0
Dined on Dec 25, 2024
Always a wonderful Christmas Eve dinner experience for the whole family!!! This is our tradition....
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Guadalajara Mexican GrillPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Temecula
•
4.7
A
Anne
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined on Dec 22, 2024
Amazing food and service. Well designed space with lots of seating. We ordered crab enchiladas, snapper with plantain crust, chicken mole enchiladas, and table side guacamole. My husband ordered a Don Julio margarita and I got a pomegranate spritzer. Really appreciated how many non alcoholic options they had on the drink menu that weren’t just soda! We will definitely be back
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Ortega's A Mexican BistroPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Hillcrest
•
4.6
C
Cynthia
San Diego •11 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 10, 2024
The food was delicious! The drinks were also delicious! Food is moderately priced, but the drinks are quite expensive! Guacamole was plentiful and very tasty! Our server was extremely helpful and personable! First time at blind and we would come again!
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Blind BurroPrice: Moderate• Mexican / Southwestern• Downtown
•
4.6

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41 restaurants available nearby

1. The Landings

2. Campfire

3. Brickmans Restaurant & Bar (formerly The Grill)

4. 20|TWENTY

5. Ember & Rye

6. Dave & Buster's - Carlsbad

7. Le Papagayo Encinitas

8. King's Fish House - Carlsbad

9. Black Rail Kitchen + Bar

10. Matsu

See what locals rave about

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