Best Tapas Restaurants in San Diego

11 restaurants available nearby

1. Tapas & Beers

4.9

Exceptional(497)

Price: Moderate

• Tapas • Downtown

Booked 4 times today

Nestled in the historic Spreckels building in Downtown San Diego, Tapas & Beers is a shining example of authentic Farm-to-table cuisine. Revered for its fresh and mostly organic ingredients, everything on their menu is crafted from scratch to order, ensuring a delightful dining experience. Guests rave about the "wonderful experience" and "fantastic food," highlighting the extraordinary flavors of French and Spanish classics with a fresh twist. The restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity is evident in every dish, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts. Whether you’re savoring their tapas or indulging in larger plates, Tapas & Beers promises a memorable meal that celebrates the bounty of local farms.

A photo of Captain’s Quarters restaurant

2. Captain’s Quarters

4.7

Exceptional(62)

Price: Expensive

• Tapas • Pacific Beach

Booked 14 times today

Captain’s Quarters in Pacific Beach, San Diego, is a cocktail bar that sails beyond expectations with its exceptional gin-focused creations and innovative spirit blends. Guests are captivated by the “amazing interior” and “super cool ambiance” that transports them to a nautical adventure. The talented bartenders, like Celia and Austin, craft “really great cocktails” that keep patrons coming back for more. The Beverage Director, Eric Johnson, showcases a delightful twist on classics with rum, mezcal, and more, ensuring a “delicious” experience for every palate. With its “creative and cozy” decor and “top cocktails in the beach,” it's a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts.

3. Botanica

4.6

Exceptional(34)

Price: Moderate

• Tapas • North Park

Booked 5 times today

Botanica, nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of North Park, San Diego, is a haven for those who cherish exquisite Tapas and Small Plates. The restaurant crafts an unforgettable experience with its delectable array of small bites that perfectly complement their artisanal cocktails. Patrons rave about the "creative small plates" that elevate any dining occasion with their sophisticated flavors. The ambiance is both lively and intimate, making it an ideal spot for a cozy yet vibrant dining experience. Praised for its "delicious food" and "amazing service," Botanica ensures that every visit feels like a celebration of culinary artistry and exceptional hospitality.

A photo of Pali Wine Co. Little Italy Tasting Room restaurant

4. Pali Wine Co. Little Italy Tasting Room

4.9

Exceptional(143)

Price: Moderate

• Tapas • Little Italy

Booked 4 times today

Pali Wine Co. Little Italy Tasting Room is an outstanding destination for anyone seeking the finest Winery cuisine. Nestled in the heart of San Diego's vibrant Little Italy, this family-owned gem captures the essence of the California Central Coast's diverse wine-growing heritage. Patrons rave about the “excellent wine selection” and the “great ambience,” making it an ideal spot for a casual meal or a memorable date night. With offerings like their celebrated Pali Pinot Noirs and Neighborhood's ‘Blood Moon’ red wine, guests are sure to find a favorite. The cozy atmosphere, attentive staff, and delectable sharable plates elevate every visit to a delightful experience.

5. Barrel & Board Social

4.8

Exceptional(328)

Price: Expensive

• Tapas • Hillcrest

Barrel & Board Social in Hillcrest, San Diego, is a true gem for fans of Tapas and Small Plates cuisine. Renowned for its beautifully presented and flavorful shareable boards, this restaurant not only offers an "exceptional" dining experience but also stands out as a top choice for both locals and visitors. The boards are praised for their "A+ presentation, taste, and share-ability," making them perfect for any gathering. Guests rave about the fresh and delicious ingredients, with one reviewer highlighting their experience saying, "The food was probably the freshest tasting food I’ve had in a very long time." Whether you're a fan of classic cheese boards or innovative small plates, Barrel & Board Social promises an authentic and delightful culinary journey.

6. MOTHERSHIP

4.8

Exceptional(344)

Price: Moderate

• Tapas • North Park

Booked 35 times today

Mothership in North Park, San Diego, beckons diners to embark on an interplanetary culinary adventure with its Fusion/Eclectic cuisine. This hidden gem has been recognized by Esquire Magazine as one of the Best Bars in America, offering an experience that's "truly out of this world!" The restaurant's vibrant atmosphere is meticulously themed with a blend of a crashed spaceship and alien cave, making every visit feel like a journey to another galaxy. Guests rave about the "deliciously creative" small plates and "spectacular" exotic cocktails, which are as much a visual feast as they are a delight to the palate. Indulge in this unique dining escapade where flavors defy earthly bounds!

7. Basta!

4.4

Awesome(55)

Price: Expensive

• Tapas • Little Italy

Booked 5 times today

At Basta! in Little Italy, San Diego, the tapas-style approach to Italian-inspired cuisine is nothing short of exceptional. Every small plate is crafted with attention to detail, offering a delightful burst of flavors that diners rave about. The gnocchi and chicken and waffles are standout dishes, described as "mind-blowing" and "unlike anything else." Guests appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and attentive service, with servers who are well-versed in the menu and provide spot-on recommendations. The unique blend of tapas meets Italy creates a "fun and lively" experience that makes Basta! a must-visit for both locals and visitors alike.

A photo of Mimmo's Italian Village restaurant

8. Mimmo's Italian Village

4.5

Awesome(634)

Price: Expensive

• Tapas • Little Italy

Booked 12 times today

Mimmo's Italian Village, nestled in San Diego's vibrant Little Italy, is a hidden gem renowned for its exquisite Tapas/Small Plates cuisine. This family-owned establishment, steeped in history since 1973, offers an authentic taste of Italy with every bite. Diners rave about the "fantastic food" and "exceptional service," making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. The homemade dishes, prepared fresh daily with quality ingredients, capture the essence of Italian culinary traditions. Guests are particularly enchanted by the "bold sauces" that evoke flavors reminiscent of a true Italian Nonna's kitchen. Experience the charm and authenticity of Mimmo's for a delightful tapas adventure.

A photo of Lobby Lounge at Fairmont Grand Del Mar restaurant

9. Lobby Lounge at Fairmont Grand Del Mar

4.3

Awesome(14)

Price: Moderate

• Tapas • Carmel Valley

Booked 2 times today

The Lobby Lounge at Fairmont Grand Del Mar has been magnificently reimagined to combine the lavish splendor of Italian palazzos with the natural grandeur of Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve. Indulge in afternoon tea as the San Diego sun casts its golden light through large arched windows, or linger into the evening over inspired tapas, cocktails, and elevated programming under the warm glow of Venetian glass chandeliers. Take in the beauty of Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve —or while sipping a craft cocktail in the bar. In a specially commissioned mural that spans all four walls, artist Jim Wodark pays homage to the canyon’s most iconic elements: its ancient rocks, cascading waterfall, and distant mountains.Live entertainment Fridays and Saturdays 8:00 pm - 12:00 am.LIVE LIMITLESS - Join the rewards program designed with you in mind. As a member of ALL – Accor Live Limitless, you’ll earn points on dining and hotel reservations worldwide. Enroll at https://bit.ly/3gvDtJG

A photo of Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - San Diego, CA | Scripps Ranch restaurant

10. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - San Diego, CA | Scripps Ranch

4.5

Awesome(993)

Price: Expensive

• Tapas • Scripps Ranch

Founded in Tokyo in 1996, Gyu-Kaku has become the world’s #1 Japanese BBQ brand! Thanks to our devoted fans we have reached over 700 locations worldwide. Each day, hundreds of thousands of people gather around the table-top smokeless grill, a centerpiece of our dining concept, enjoying selections of premium meats, just off the grill, and other freshly prepared foods from our kitchens, inspiring laughter, conversation, and a magical dining experience.Our authentic yakiniku (grilled barbeque) dining experience crowns you the chef. Share a variety of delicious appetizers and premium cooked meats over a flaming grill, paired with Japanese sake, frosty cold beers, or other alcoholic and non-alcoholic options of your choice. We're the perfect spot to enjoy time with friends and family, organize an office party, or to spend quality time with your significant other! Before you go, don't forget to taste our best-seller Harami Skirt Steak or Prime Kalbi Short Rib among other must-try dishes!

‘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

S
sophie
San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Had the most inviting and welcoming staff! Made friends with our neighbors and enjoyed all our drinks!
More info
BotanicaPrice: Moderate• Japanese• North Park
•
4.6
M
Max
Toronto / Ontario •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Mothership is an exceptionally unique dining experience, featuring creative vegetarian dishes and delightful cocktails. Would highly recommend to anyone looking to elevate a date night, or impress the friend group. Please note, the meal can feel rushed at times as they only seat for 1.5-2 hours at a time as the place is incredibly busy.
More info
MOTHERSHIPPrice: Moderate• Tapas / Small Plates• North Park
•
4.8
K
Kimberly
South Carolina •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
I love Pali! The wine is also so yummy and the flight is a great way to figure out what you want to drink or just try fun wines! The charcuterie board was really good too, a fun little appetizer. I’ve never had a bad experience here!
More info
Pali Wine Co. Little Italy Tasting RoomPrice: Moderate• Wine Bar• Little Italy
•
4.9
E
Erick
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined on Dec 30, 2024
Ordered the 12 oz steak and salmon, overall steak was really and salmon was decent. The steak was done and seasoned very well. The asparagus was a bit dry. Salmon was good but the rice and beans were ok.. The cheese board is AMAZING! An individual is enough for two. Drinks are also really good and worth having two or three! Would recommend to come with friends and family. Especially if you have parties of 4 or more.
More info
Barrel & Board SocialPrice: Expensive• Californian• Hillcrest
•
4.8
B
Brett
San Diego •8 reviews
5.0
Dined on Dec 27, 2024
We had the most memorable and incefibke experience! Austin took brilliant and practiced care of us—his Dealer’s Choice drink, incoming an elote liqueur, was GOD TIER. Just an incredible experience. We can’t wait to return!
More info
Captain’s QuartersPrice: Expensive• Tapas / Small Plates• Pacific Beach
•
4.7

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Best Tapas Restaurants in San Diego

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11 restaurants available nearby

1. Tapas & Beers

2. Captain’s Quarters

3. Botanica

4. Pali Wine Co. Little Italy Tasting Room

5. Barrel & Board Social

6. MOTHERSHIP

7. Basta!

8. Mimmo's Italian Village

9. Lobby Lounge at Fairmont Grand Del Mar

10. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - San Diego, CA | Scripps Ranch

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