1. Lucha Libre Gourmet Taco Shop
For many people, the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about San Diego is the tacos. There are tons of taco places, and everybody probably has their favorite. Choosing a definitive “best” taco joint in San Diego is nearly impossible, but it must be done for the sake of the list! Lucha Libre Gourmet Taco Shop combines a great atmosphere with amazing food. No matter what you order here, you can’t go wrong with Lucha Libre Gourmet Taco Shop.
Photo credit: The Insurance Chef
2. CUCINA urbana
CUCINA urbana is simple Italian food at it’s best. There is everything for the Italian food lover including a wide range of pizzas, pastas and other lesser known, but no less delicious, Italian dishes. Oh, and don’t forget about the wine!
Photo credit: Urban Kitchen Group
3. Sushi Ota
Not all sushi restaurants are created equal. Sushi Ota is widely regarded as the best sushi in San Diego. Because San Diego is a coastal city, you can be assured that the fish is fresh. Chef Ota specializes in serving local Uni, but even if Uni isn’t your thing, you will find something delicious and unforgettable at Sushi Ota.
Photo credit: Sushi Ota
4. Urban Solace
Urban Solace specializes in modern American cuisine. Here, the ingredients are the star. Everything is fresh and when possible, locally sourced. As we all know, exceptional ingredients lead to exceptional meals. Grab someone and try their Thursday night Prix Fixe menu for two. It’s reasonably priced and lets you sample all that Urban Solace has to offer.
Photo credit: Explore North Park
5. Yakitori Taisho
Rarely will you find a restaurant that has dedicated it’s menu to Yakitori. But Yakitori Taisho has taken on the challenge and became the king of Yakitori. For those of you who don’t know, Yakitori is the Japanese method of skewering meats (typically chicken) and grilling them. It may seem simplistic, but the flavors of the chicken and sauces are out of this world.
Photo credit: San Diego Eater
6. Dae Jang Keum Korean BBQ
Dae Jang Kuem Korean BBQ is a great place to go if you’re looking to sit down, and catch up with friends and family, all while eating amazing food. If you’ve never had Korean BBQ before, get ready for a unique experience. At Korean BBQ, you order your food, and cook it yourself on a BBQ rack in the center of the table. The meats at Dae Jang Keum are fresh and tasty, with tons of great dipping sauces. A night here is a night well spent.
Photo credit: Yelp
7. Phil’s BBQ
Good BBQ is San Diego? Yup! At Phil’s BBQ, you will forget you’re in San Diego because the flavors will transport you to the South where BBQ reigns king. What makes Phil’s BBQ so good? Patience and respecting the process. Phil’s BBQ has perfected their procedures, making it some of the best BBQ in the States.
Photo credit: Shrewd Foodie
8. Bencotto Italian Kitchen
Italian food is fairly easy to come by. Great Italian food is much different. At Bencotta’s, you will be served fresh, homemade pasta, which can’t be said of many “Italian” restaurants. If you are looking for authentic, simple and, above all else, delicious, head to Bencotto’s.
Photo credit: Bencotta Italian Kitchen
9. The Original Sab-E-Lee
If you are a San Diego native, consider yourself lucky that you have an Eastern Thai restaurant. The food of Eastern Thailand has many Laotian influences, but stands on it’s own. If you are feeling adventurous and want an authentic Thai experience, order the Nam Tok with pork neck or the spicy raw beef. Don’t worry, there are many more options for people who are more cautious, but where’s the fun in that?
Photo credit: Utrip
10. Juniper & Ivy
Juniper & Ivy is a relatively new addition to the San Diego food scene, but it has already started to catch people’s attention. In 2016, it was named the Best of the Best by San Diego Magazine. If that doesn’t catch your eye, I don’t know what will. Juniper & Ivy serves traditional American food, made with care and attention to detail. You won’t be disappointed.
Photo credit: Eater