Kaito Sushi inspires devotion and reverence from sushi purists who delight in owner Kazuo Morita's dedication to the freshest seafood and time-honored technique. [Eater 38 Member]
Flavor and heat mingle deliciously at this no-frills Thai joint. The curries and noodles are above par but the catfish or duck larb and raw beef salad are really something special. [Eater 38 Member]
Chef-owner Olivier Bioteau turns out thoughtful, classic French food out of an impossibly small kitchen. Their Sunday brunch is among the best in town. [Eater 38 Member]
Helmed by a venerable sushi master (request a seat in owner Ota-san's section of the sushi bar), the restaurant is unassuming, low-key and unquestionably authentic. [Eater 38 Member]
Chef Trey Foshee at George's California Modern is cited as a guiding force in the San Diego food culture and one of the first champions of local seafood. [Eater 38 Member]
Winemaker events, an ever-changing seasonal menu and prix fixe dinners that feel like a steal. Friday: $20, 3-courses; Saturday $30, 5-courses. [Eater 38 Member]
An in-house butcher shop, skilled mixologists and a non-stuffy vibe set this steakhouse apart from its expense account counterparts. Try for a seat at Victor Jimenez's chef table. [Eater 38 Member]
Chef and owner Matt Gordon has established a loyal following for his unpretentious new American comfort food and popular Bluegrass Brunch. [Eater 38 Member]
San Diegans were glad to see Market's Carl Schroeder move down from North County for this more casual second spot. [Eater 38 Member]
A wood-fired oven straight from Naples combined with equal care given to the dough, sauce and (minimal) toppings make for nearly spot-on traditional Neapolitan-style pizza.
Responsible for kicking off the local craft cocktail scene. It's also a haven for late night eaters who still want good food - the kitchen's open until midnight every night. [Eater 38 Member]
Jsix's Christian Graves, who manages to successfully juggle his exec chef duties and his GM role, also finds time to make charcuterie and champion sustainable seafood and whole animal cookery.
A just-redesigned dining room and a newly-installed pizza oven mean it's about time to revisit this chef-driven restaurant, which has reopened after a quick redo in November.
This La Jolla institution offers reliable service and traditional French Provencal food from chef Jean Michel Diot; their Bistro bar menu's one of the best values in town. [Eater 38 Member]
The Little Italy space has been steadily stepping up its culinary game. The cocktails are commendable too, as are the bar bites and brunch. [Eater 38 Member]
This place might be an only-in-San Diego special. Where else could you eat house made sausages while drinking local beer in a still-operational bait and tackle shop on a pier? [Eater 38 Member]
This unpretentious spot just celebrated their two year anniversary. That's two years of what might be San Diego's best convergence of craft beer and food. [Eater 38 Member]
This community-minded restaurant has garnered affection in the neighborhood and beyond, thanks to chef Ricardo Heredia's eclectic farm-to-table food and their warm service. [Eater 38 Member]
Just-plucked seafood and unfussy, simple preparations make El Pescador a winner. Hopefully, none of that will change with the market and cafe's move and expansion. [Eater 38 Member]
