85 Best Southern American Restaurants In La Jolla

1. NINE-TEN

4.8

Exceptional(2978)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • La Jolla

Booked 22 times today

NINE-TEN in La Jolla, San Diego, offers an exceptional American dining experience that beautifully marries sophistication with casual elegance. Under the expert guidance of the award-winning Chef Jason Knibb, the restaurant has garnered MICHELIN distinction, a testament to its high-quality and authentically American cuisine. Diners rave about the "superb dining experience," with dishes like their "phenomenal Cacio E Pepe" and "incredible duck" leaving lasting impressions. The cozy ambiance, featuring indoor and al fresco dining with Pacific Ocean views, complements the exquisite menu. With outstanding service and a commitment to locally-sourced ingredients, NINE-TEN is a must-visit for American cuisine enthusiasts.

2. Brockton Villa

4.7

Exceptional(2807)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • La Jolla

Booked 25 times today

Brockton Villa, nestled in the heart of La Jolla, San Diego, offers a quintessential American dining experience that combines breathtaking coastal views with exceptional cuisine. Known for its famous Coast Toast, Brockton Villa elevates classic American breakfast dishes with a unique twist, delighting guests with "decadent" flavors and generous portions. Set in a charming historic home, this restaurant captures the essence of American hospitality with "outstanding" service and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Dine while gazing over the stunning La Jolla Cove, enjoying meals described as "incredible" and "must-try" by enthusiastic patrons. A visit to Brockton Villa is an unforgettable American culinary adventure.

A photo of Mediterranean Room - La Valencia Hotel restaurant

3. Mediterranean Room - La Valencia Hotel

4.3

Awesome(1749)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • La Jolla

Booked 23 times today

The Mediterranean Room at La Valencia Hotel in La Jolla is a delightful destination for seafood enthusiasts, offering an exceptional culinary experience with its "fresh and tasty" dishes. Known for its seasonally-driven, locally-sourced ingredients, the restaurant delivers an authentic taste of the California coast right to your plate. Guests rave about the "amazing" seafood, with standout dishes like shrimp scampi and scallops that are "presented so nicely and flavorful." Dine amidst breathtaking ocean views, enhancing each bite with the serene backdrop of La Jolla Beach. With outstanding food and impeccable service, it’s a must-visit for seafood lovers seeking a memorable meal.

4. Paradisaea

4.7

Exceptional(609)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • La Jolla

Booked 47 times today

Paradisaea in the heart of Bird Rock, La Jolla, offers an unparalleled Contemporary American dining experience that delights with its “creative and delicious” culinary creations. This destination restaurant is celebrated for its “outstanding food and service,” making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Guests rave about the chef’s ability to craft “custom vegan and pescatarian multi-course meals,” showcasing the restaurant's commitment to inclusivity and innovation. With an ambiance that is both “hip and fun,” Paradisaea artfully combines “delicious food and cocktails” with a vibrant atmosphere, ensuring every visit is a memorable culinary adventure. Highly recommended for those seeking modern American cuisine at its finest.

5. The Fishery

4.8

Exceptional(3138)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Pacific Beach

Booked 46 times today

Nestled just blocks from the ocean in North Pacific Beach, The Fishery offers an authentic American dining experience with a coastal twist. Celebrated for its fresh seafood, this gem has been lauded as "San Diego’s premier restaurant," where each dish is crafted with seasonal and fresh ingredients, ensuring unparalleled taste. With awards such as the prestigious Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator since 2018, The Fishery excels in pairing its exquisite coastal cuisine with impeccable wines. Diners rave about the "best calamari" and "thick and rich clam chowder," making it a must-visit for lovers of true American coastal flavors.

A photo of Bernini's Bistro & Bar restaurant

6. Bernini's Bistro & Bar

4.8

Exceptional(624)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • La Jolla

Booked 18 times today

Bernini's Bistro & Bar in La Jolla is a true gem for those who appreciate exquisite Contemporary American cuisine. With over 24 years of culinary excellence, it's no wonder it remains a neighborhood favorite. Guests rave about the “excellent food” and “consistently good” dishes that showcase the restaurant's passion for quality and authenticity. The inviting atmosphere, complete with cozy fire pits and a vibrant patio, enhances the dining experience, making it perfect for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings. Bernini's dedication to impeccable service and their standout dishes, such as the cioppino and wood-fired pizzas, ensures a memorable visit every time.

A photo of The Shores Restaurant - La Jolla Shores Hotel restaurant

7. The Shores Restaurant - La Jolla Shores Hotel

4.2

Awesome(2463)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • La Jolla

Booked 13 times today

The Shores Restaurant at La Jolla Shores Hotel is a seafood lover's paradise, offering a sublime dining experience with views that are as impressive as the menu. Known for its "delicious fish" and "superb AHI appetizer," the restaurant delights patrons with fresh, authentic seafood dishes that resonate with the vibrant flavors of the Pacific. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the ocean, diners can enjoy dishes like ceviche and fish tacos, praised for being "very good" and "of the highest quality." Executive Chef Michael Vaughn masterfully combines California's beach-style dining with a family-friendly atmosphere, making every meal memorable and unique.

A photo of The Grill at The Lodge at Torrey Pines restaurant

8. The Grill at The Lodge at Torrey Pines

4.6

Exceptional(2404)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • La Jolla

Booked 47 times today

The Grill at The Lodge at Torrey Pines in La Jolla, San Diego, is a shining example of authentic Farm-to-table cuisine. This restaurant is celebrated for its commitment to using local ingredients, ensuring that every dish is a genuine reflection of the region's bounty. Diners revel in the "wonderful ambiance" and "exceptional staff" that make each visit memorable. The Grill's dedication to quality craftsmanship is evident in their wood-fired dishes, which are consistently praised for being "delicious" and "fantastic." With spectacular views of the iconic Torrey Pines Golf Course and a harmonious blend of flavors, The Grill offers an unparalleled dining experience.

A photo of Seasons 52 - San Diego - UTC restaurant

9. Seasons 52 - San Diego - UTC

4.8

Exceptional(5071)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • University City/Golden Triangle

Booked 52 times today

Nestled in the vibrant University City/Golden Triangle area of San Diego, Seasons 52 - UTC is renowned for its exceptional Seafood cuisine. Diners rave about the "fabulous" Chilean sea bass, which is described as "tender inside and crispy outside," showcasing the restaurant's commitment to quality and freshness. The mahi mahi tacos are another highlight, praised for their "flavorful and tasty" preparation. Seasons 52's dedication to using seasonal ingredients ensures that each dish bursts with natural flavors, delivering an authentic Seafood experience. With excellent service and a charming atmosphere, it's no wonder guests leave feeling delighted and eager to return.

A photo of Slowly Restaurant & Lounge restaurant

10. Slowly Restaurant & Lounge

4.6

Exceptional(81)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Pacific Beach

Booked 11 times today

Slowly Restaurant & Lounge in the heart of Pacific Beach, San Diego, offers an authentic American dining experience that's truly exceptional. Known for its "outstanding service and food," Slowly has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The menu showcases a delightful array of American classics with a creative twist, such as the highly recommended Yadi’s Signature Chicken and succulent skirt steak. Guests rave about the "delicious food" and "attentive service," making each visit memorable. The restaurant’s cozy ambiance and inviting atmosphere provide the perfect backdrop for savoring fresh, local flavors. Slowly is a must-visit for anyone craving quality American cuisine.

Best Southern American Restaurants in La Jolla

Price

Regions

Neighborhoods

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating Options

Award-winning

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85 restaurants available nearby

1. NINE-TEN

2. Brockton Villa

3. Mediterranean Room - La Valencia Hotel

4. Paradisaea

5. The Fishery

6. Bernini's Bistro & Bar

7. The Shores Restaurant - La Jolla Shores Hotel

8. The Grill at The Lodge at Torrey Pines

9. Seasons 52 - San Diego - UTC

10. Slowly Restaurant & Lounge

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