Best Casual Restaurants in Mission Hills

151 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Casa De Freds, Tacos y Tequila restaurant

1. Casa De Freds, Tacos y Tequila

4.4

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Old Town

Booked 3 times today

ABOUT FREDS OLD TOWN | Since 2001, Casa de Freds in Old Town has been bringing the fiesta to San Diego. Freds is the place for amigos - both new and old - to have a great time while enjoying quality food, fresh margaritas and a festive atmosphere. The menu offers a wide variety of delicious, Baja-infused selections that are made from fresh, high-quality ingredients. The vibrant decor and great music provide a unique dining experience right in the heart of historic Old Town. The restaurant offers plenty of versatility for groups of many sizes. The large outdoor patio is dog friendly, so bring in your furry friends and check out the doggy menu! The outdoor bar is a fantastic spot to enjoy the San Diego sun, whether you are here for the weekend or live down the street. Freds newly renovated Fiesta Cantina is the perfect place to watch your favorite sporting events. The Cantina also offers daily specials that will keep your tummies, glasses and pockets full. Thanks Amigo!

2. C-Level

4.7

Exceptional(4862)

Price: Moderate

• Cocktail Bar • Downtown

Booked 85 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.

3. Cesarina

4.9

Exceptional(5443)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Ocean Beach

Booked 200 times today

Cesarina is a grandmother, a mother, a daughter—our personification of a nurturer who feeds and cares for her community. From meticulous attention to detail and fresh ingredients to the warm and inviting atmosphere, this restaurant is a celebration of the power of food and family.

4. Callie Restaurant

4.8

Exceptional(173)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mediterranean • Downtown

Booked 43 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.

5. Lala

4.5

Awesome(121)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Little Italy

Booked 16 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.

6. Kettner Exchange

4.7

Exceptional(1325)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary American • Little Italy

Booked 55 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.

A photo of Ironside Fish & Oyster restaurant

7. Ironside Fish & Oyster

4.4

Awesome(4529)

Price: Moderate

• Seafood • Little Italy

Booked 85 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.

8. AKA San Diego

new

3.2

Good(27)

Price: Expensive

• Asian • Downtown

Booked 50 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.

9. Nolita Hall

4.4

Awesome(723)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary Italian • Little Italy

Booked 78 times today

Nolita was inspired by the famous neighborhood in New York City – coined as such for being “North of Little Italy”. Upon opening in 2018, Nolita Hall was awarded an Orchid Award for the stunning interior design provided by Tecture Design and Fabrication.Nolita Hall provides Little Italy with a much needed communal space to enjoy a first class dining and craft cocktail experience, without missing the big games. Our kitchen boasts a Fiori woodfire oven, contributing to most of our Italian inspired menu. Our beverage program provides approachable cocktails with uncompromising integrity of ingredient procurement.

A photo of Brigantine at Portside Pier restaurant

10. Brigantine at Portside Pier

4.7

Exceptional(4178)

Price: Expensive

• Seafood • Downtown

Booked 94 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

M
Marissa
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
I got the pasta with vodka sauce, mini lobster and shrimp, It was absolutely delicious!! The ambiance was amazing and our waitress was great! They did take our food on the extra plate without asking first.. but other than that it was amazing!!
More info
CesarinaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Ocean Beach
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4.9
C
Cindy
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Two friends flew in from out of town & I suggested we try C Level. Neither had been before. It was a sunny gorgeous day & we sat out on the patio. The service was impeccable and the food was delicious. We ordered the lobster Mac & cheese, fish & chips & shrimp & crab Louie salad. Everything was fresh & flavorful. They loved our lunch & would highly recommend it.
More info
C-LevelPrice: Moderate• Cocktail Bar• Downtown
•
4.7
L
Larryvip
San Diego •34 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
i’ve dined here eight or 10 times over the years just brought someone new last night and he raved about the entire experience: food service creativity. We got the tasting menu and as usual the Alna and the Kampachi were huge hits early on. The subtlety combined with sharp notes took what could otherwise be very straightforward and made them rich. It was all excellent but as usual the Leppo chicken is Callie’s feathering the cap for that experience. Why doesn’t have a Michelin star is beyond me? Perhaps it’s the more casual approach to dining, but the food is easily Michelin quality for my taste by far away the best food in San Diego south of Addison
More info
Callie RestaurantPrice: Very Expensive• Mediterranean• Downtown
•
4.8
R
Richard
Orlando / Central Florida East •23 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
Fred’s is the best of truly wonderful Mexican food to be found in Old Town. Dee our waiter was awesome and made great drink and food recommendations!
More info
Casa De Freds, Tacos y TequilaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Old Town
•
4.4
D
Denise
Philadelphia County •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 11, 2024
We had a lovely time at Lala. We met the proprietor and thoroughly enjoyed the conversation. The food was very good. The atmosphere was very comfortable. The wine prices were a little too high. But highly suggest the espresso martini. Would like to see more vegan options available.
More info
LalaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Little Italy
•
4.5

Best Casual Restaurants in Mission Hills

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151 restaurants available nearby

1. Casa De Freds, Tacos y Tequila

2. C-Level

3. Cesarina

4. Callie Restaurant

5. Lala

6. Kettner Exchange

7. Ironside Fish & Oyster

8. AKA San Diego

9. Nolita Hall

10. Brigantine at Portside Pier

See what locals rave about

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