Best Restaurants for People Watching in Kearny Mesa

Man, I noticed a few bad reviews for this place but we totally disagree. This is a cool, smaller restaurant attached to the Hotel Valencia. It has a nice u-shaped bar with what seemed to be mostly locals hanging out talking with the staff. Upscale vibe but not "stuffy" La Jolla vibe. The cocktails were amazing and fairly creative. We also thought the food was excellent, contrary to what a few other folks have said. The braised short rib Mao, crispy pumpkin squash, and twinkie ceaser were the standouts. Only minor downsides were that you can smell the seals a little bit and it was a bit chilly inside, as the door was kept open. Overall we really enjoyed our experience.

We FINALLY made it down from Carlsbad and took advantage of the “Proper Roast Dinner with Richard Blais.” Our first time here was well worth it! The restaurant is GORGEOUS! The staff, engaging and very attentive. We thoroughly enjoyed the scrumptious prime rib dinner with wonderful sides. Everything was meticulously prepared and delicious! King Richard visited our table a few times which made our experience extra special. The sticky toffee and date cake with salted caramel ice cream is a MUST!!! Sooooo good! We will be back to try the famous ale battered cod and chips and the prime rib dip sando…

Overall a great experience. I was entertaining some colleagues and a business partner in town for a conference as a local and they thoroughly enjoyed the meal. Several of our dishes were great. Most notably the hot oil seared salmon that our server recommended and spicy garlic noodles. I wasnt really a fan of the meatball and spicy shrimp plates (but I may be biased having had similar dishes in the past) We arrived almost 30 minutes and the host Erika was exceptionally welcoming and got us seated promptly which was awesome. Definitely would come back, great for a date night or entertaining guests.

One of the best in Downtown Little Italy! Food was delicious and you must try the Garlic Bread..so good!! Rosanna was our server and she was the absolute best -Very attentive. The vibe was electric on a Tuesday and we can't wait to go back!

We had an amazing experience at The Henry. The booth was extremely comfortable which is very important to me. Our waiter was very friendly, knowledgeable and attentive. Upon knowing that we were celebrating my birthday and our anniversary he gave us a complimentary glass of champagne. We ordered the short rib pot stickers and egg and bacon salad which were delicious. I had the rotisserie chicken- amazing, Mac and cheese -divine and my husband had the filet- perfection. Then they gave us a complimentary chocolate fudge pie for dessert. Overall one of the best experiences we’ve had In Coronado. Highly recommend!!