Best Casual Restaurants in South Park

120 restaurants available nearby

1. Buona Forchetta

4.6

Exceptional(856)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • South Park

Booked 74 times today

Buona Forchetta started in 2011 as a craving of Matteo’s to bring some of his native Italy to our adopted home of South Park. We found the perfect corner and built the perfect oven. Since then, we’ve strived to deliver an exceptional and authentic Italian experience to our customers keeping our focus on the simple recipes that Matteo grew up on. We owe a huge “grazie” to our neighbors who have joined us on this awesome journey, and we hope that you will continue to be part of our story.

2. Callie Restaurant

4.8

Exceptional(240)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mediterranean • Downtown

Booked 63 times today

Callie represents Chef Travis Swikard's debut solo project after spending a decade working alongside the esteemed Chef Daniel Boulud in New York City. The restaurant’s name, "Callie," comes from the Greek word "kallos," meaning "the most beautiful," and embodies its blend of Mediterranean cuisine with local ingredients and terroir, from sea to land from San Diego, Swikard's hometown. In 2022, Callie was acclaimed as one of America's top new restaurants by Esquire and Robb Report, and received both a Bib Gourmand and a Plate from the Michelin Guide. Callie is a dedicated supporter of Feeding San Diego, having contributed over 1 million meals to those in need in San Diego since its launch. Swikard is set to open his second restaurant in La Jolla in 2025.

3. C-Level

4.7

Exceptional(4918)

Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • Downtown

Booked 108 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.

4. Lala

4.6

Exceptional(132)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Little Italy

Booked 23 times today

From the Owners of Barbusa .we bring you "Lala" a captivating blend of modern and classic Italian cuisine, paired with handcrafted cocktails in a cozy, sexy-chic ambiance. Our menu showcases timeless Italian flavors with a contemporary twist, from traditional Stuffed Shells to inventive loaded potato gnocchi. The intimate atmosphere, with dimmed lights and plush furnishings, sets the stage for romantic dinners or vibrant gatherings.Our bar is a haven of mixology artistry, featuring classic Negronis and signature creations like the "Lala Martini." Sustainability is a core value—we source responsibly and implement eco-friendly practices in both the kitchen and the bar. "Lala" isn't just a restaurant; it's a community that appreciates culinary excellence, inviting you to savor the extraordinary in every bite, sip, and moment. Join us for a celebration of Italian cuisine, crafted with contemporary flair, and served in an ambiance that exudes romance.

5. AKA San Diego

new

3.8

Excellent(59)

Price: Expensive

• Asian • Downtown

Booked 29 times today

Located in the bustling heart of Gaslamp, San Diego, AKA is more than just a restaurant. It’s a destination where exceptional food, craft cocktails, and an energetic nightlife converge. With a menu curated by renowned Chef Takuya Kudo, AKA offers a captivating fusion of Chinese, Japanese, and Thai culinary traditions, all crafted with fresh ingredients and innovative techniques. The venue features a vibrant atmosphere complemented by artisanal craft cocktails from mixologist Gerardo Bedolla and striking design by Cassandra Builer. AKA welcomes guests to indulge in its exquisite dishes while enjoying electrifying entertainment. Committed to transforming the dining and nightlife scene in San Diego, AKA offers a unique and unforgettable experience for everyone looking to savor gourmet cuisine, sip on craft cocktails, and dance the night away.

A photo of Ironside Fish & Oyster restaurant

6. Ironside Fish & Oyster

4.5

Awesome(4555)

Price: Moderate

• Seafood • Little Italy

Booked 128 times today

Little Italy was built by the fishing industry. Ironside attempts to continue that narrative. It's our contemporary interpretation of the classic fish house and oyster bar. Located in a historic auction house on India St we did a full comprehensive restoration of the building, with three open-air culinary hubs featuring an expansive raw bar, chefs table, and bakery. We tried to be mindful of the past while looking towards the future. A 4% surcharge will be added to all guest checks.Ironside is now taking reservations for patio and dining room seating. We are now offering Happy Hour MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY FROM 3:00PM - 5:00PM.

7. Kettner Exchange

4.7

Exceptional(1362)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary American • Little Italy

Booked 73 times today

Kettner Exchange boasts two levels of indoor/outdoor drinking and dining and Little Italy’s only rooftop patio with spanning harbor views. We feature Progressive American cuisine from critically acclaimed Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski. In 2019, Kettner Exchange was named to Michelin Guide's prestigious Bib Gourmand list. Kettner Exchange has proudly maintained this award every year thereafter. Originally introduced in 1997, the Bib Gourmand category highlights restaurants that serve high-quality meals which include two courses and a glass of wine or dessert for $40 or less.

8. Civico 1845

4.3

Awesome(2408)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Little Italy

Booked 44 times today

A new generation of Italian cuisine - fresh, light and authentic. By using proper cooking techniques, our flavors are natural and pure. Our menu is a homage to our region Calabria and southern Italian roots reflecting what is being served in Italy today. You can also find an extensive vegan menu that incorporates many of the best Italian dishes. We have been the first restaurant in the USA to have a full Italian Vegan menu since 2015! We believe in sustainability, both in our food and in the design of our restaurant. While our menu focuses on locally grown and seasonal ingredients, our bar and dining areas were created using reclaimed, natural materials. Nothing goes to waste at Civico 1845!

9. Ciccia Osteria

4.7

Exceptional(178)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Barrio Logan

Booked 45 times today

Nestled in Barrio Logan, San Diego, Ciccia Osteria is a charming Italian restaurant that invites guests on a culinary journey through Italy. With its warm ambiance, attentive service, and exquisite cuisine, Ciccia Osteria is a beloved destination. Notably, it has won the Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024Entering Ciccia Osteria, guests are transported to Italy's bustling trattorias. The cozy interior, with small tables, exposed brick walls, and soft lighting, creates an intimate atmosphere perfect for any occasion.Committed to the finest ingredients and traditional techniques, Ciccia Osteria offers handmade pastas, succulent seafood, and tender meats, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience. The curated wine list features Italian and California wines to pair with the menu.Under Chef Mario Cassineri's guidance, Ciccia Osteria is more than a restaurant—it's a destination where guests can savor authentic Italian cuisine and create lasting memories.

A photo of Brigantine at Portside Pier restaurant

10. Brigantine at Portside Pier

4.7

Exceptional(4227)

Price: Expensive

• Seafood • Downtown

Booked 144 times today

The Brigantine is more than just home to some of San Diego’s finest seafood. It’s a place where locals and visitors alike come to share a lively atmosphere and authentic sense of community. The Morton family opened the first Brigantine on Shelter Island in 1969, with a vision that embraced the beach town lifestyle, a dedication to flavorful food, and a passion for friendly service. Today, we’re known far and wide for our San Diego-style surf and turf. From our award-winning fish tacos and freshly shucked oysters, to classic filet mignon or our perpetually best-selling marinated grilled swordfish. Always prepared to exceed expectations, and served with a smile. You can stop in at any neighborhood Brigantine and get a taste of the local flavor, from regionally inspired specials, to custom cocktails and home town craft beers. At the Brigantine we make first timers feel like regulars, and consider regulars part of the family. So come by often, and share our taste for life.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

E
Ethelyn
San Diego •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Attended the 5-course Christmas Eve dinner. It was worth every penny- from start to finish it was coursed beautifully, ingredients were fresh and cooked perfectly to temp, plating was festive and colourful; and all this with just the right timed check-ins from my bartender/server James. The couple next to me did the wine pairing and everything was explained nicely and paired well... along with some fun history & stories- I opted for the cocktails which were creative and utilized some lovely ingredients as well as being well balanced.
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Callie RestaurantPrice: Very Expensive• Mediterranean• Downtown
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4.8
D
Desiree
San Diego •7 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Excellent service and food. We had all our food fast and it was delicious. We had a wonderful time.
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Buona ForchettaPrice: Moderate• Italian• South Park
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4.6
C
Christopher
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Absolutely Beautiful for Christmas Eve dinner!! Decorations were gorgeous, ambiance was intimate, festive, warm, cheerful. Food was delicious loved grilled oysters, bruschetta, fried short rib balls, steak was yummmy!! Drinks were great, and service was on point! Beautiful experience thank You La La!! Merry Christmas Happy Holidays and Happy New Year💗✨
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LalaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Little Italy
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4.6
A
Alan
San Diego •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
This is my go to for business lunches and special events. Food and service at or above expectations. The views are amazing. Selection and quality provides something for all. Custom food requests don’t seem to cause issues. Lunchtime parking is ample and has been free when we go. They may regulate parking sometimes so call if that is a concern. You can’t go wrong with the Cohn family of restaurants, with C-Level being one of their premier locations.
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C-LevelPrice: Moderate• Cocktail Bar• Downtown
•
4.7
J
JoAnn
San Diego •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
Great restaurant. Me and my husband celebrated our anniversary here and we had a great time. The food and drinks were amazing. Service and ambiance can’t complain. At the end of our meal they treated us with a celebratory song complete with a cake and sparkling candles which was really nice. This restaurant is underrated.
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AKA San DiegoPrice: Expensive• Asian• Downtown
•
3.8

Best Casual Restaurants in South Park

Price

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Top Rated

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Award-winning

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120 restaurants available nearby

1. Buona Forchetta

2. Callie Restaurant

3. C-Level

4. Lala

5. AKA San Diego

6. Ironside Fish & Oyster

7. Kettner Exchange

8. Civico 1845

9. Ciccia Osteria

10. Brigantine at Portside Pier

See what locals rave about

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