San Diego, December 10, 2025
In 2025, San Diego’s culinary landscape has flourished with an impressive variety of restaurants and bars. This list showcases the top 21 dining and drinking spots that have become favored destinations for both locals and visitors. From exquisite fine dining to vibrant casual eateries, these establishments offer diverse cuisines and unique atmospheres that reflect the city’s rich food scene. Whether you seek fresh seafood, innovative cocktails, or comforting breakfast options, San Diego’s gastronomic offerings are sure to delight your palate.
San Diego’s Top 21 Restaurants and Bars for 2025
San Diego’s culinary scene continues to thrive, with a diverse array of dining and drinking establishments that have captivated both locals and visitors in 2025. The following list highlights 21 standout restaurants and bars that have defined the city’s gastronomic landscape this year. These selections are based on the preferences and experiences of KPBS staff, reflecting a range of cuisines, atmospheres, and locations across the region.
1. 8th & B Poke
Located in National City, 8th & B Poke is renowned for its fresh and flavorful poke bowls. The citrus salmon and spicy mayo salmon are particularly popular among patrons. Despite often having a line, the wait is considered worthwhile for the quality of the food.
2. Lost Cause Meadery
Lost Cause Meadery offers a unique selection of meads, providing a refreshing alternative to traditional beverages. Its innovative flavors and welcoming atmosphere have made it a favorite among enthusiasts.
3. Encontro
Encontro is celebrated for its diverse menu and commitment to quality ingredients. The establishment’s dedication to culinary excellence has earned it a loyal following.
4. Woomiok
Woomiok stands out with its authentic Korean cuisine, offering a range of traditional dishes that showcase the rich flavors of Korean culinary traditions.
5. Bernardo Winery
As one of San Diego’s oldest wineries, Bernardo Winery provides a historic setting paired with a selection of wines that reflect the region’s viticultural heritage.
6. Hatsuzakura
Hatsuzakura is known for its exquisite Japanese dishes, emphasizing fresh ingredients and meticulous preparation to deliver an authentic dining experience.
7. Telefónica Gastro Park
Telefónica Gastro Park is a vibrant food park that brings together a variety of culinary offerings, creating a dynamic environment for food lovers to explore diverse flavors.
8. Tribute Pizza
Tribute Pizza offers a modern take on classic pizza, using high-quality ingredients and innovative techniques to craft memorable pies.
9. Quartyard
Quartyard is a unique urban space that combines a beer garden, food vendors, and live music, fostering a lively community atmosphere.
10. Lilo
Located in Carlsbad, Lilo has earned a Michelin star for its exceptional cuisine. The restaurant’s inclusion in The New York Times’ 2025 list of the nation’s 50 best restaurants underscores its culinary excellence.
11. Sea & Sky at Hotel La Jolla
Sea & Sky at Hotel La Jolla offers a refined dining experience with a menu that highlights fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant’s ambiance and culinary offerings have garnered acclaim from both critics and diners.
12. George’s at the Cove
George’s at the Cove remains a classic choice for those seeking a blend of fine dining and stunning ocean views. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its consistent quality and service.
13. 31Thirtyone by Deckman’s
Helmed by Michelin-starred chef Drew Deckman, 31Thirtyone by Deckman’s is a new addition to North Park’s dining scene. The restaurant’s innovative approach to cuisine has quickly made it a standout in the area.
14. The Fishery
The Fishery is celebrated for its fresh seafood offerings, providing a dining experience that emphasizes quality and sustainability.
15. Roma Norte
Roma Norte is recognized for its exceptional bar offerings, creating a space where patrons can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails in a welcoming environment.
16. The Lion’s Share
The Lion’s Share is known for its inventive bar food, offering a menu that complements its extensive drink selection and enhances the overall dining experience.
17. The Kebab Shop
The Kebab Shop is a favorite among those seeking affordable and flavorful meals, offering a variety of dishes that cater to diverse tastes.
18. Our Green Affair
Our Green Affair is a top choice for healthy eating, providing a menu that focuses on fresh, nutritious ingredients without compromising on flavor.
19. Kindred
Kindred is a standout in the vegetarian and vegan dining scene, offering a menu that appeals to both plant-based and omnivorous diners.
20. Little Lion Cafe
Little Lion Cafe is a popular spot for breakfast, known for its hearty and delicious offerings that set the tone for a great day.
21. Wayfarer Bread
Wayfarer Bread is a beloved bakery, offering a selection of artisanal breads that have become a staple for many in the community.
These establishments represent the vibrant and diverse dining and drinking options available in San Diego, each contributing uniquely to the city’s rich culinary tapestry. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting for the first time, exploring these venues offers a taste of the best that San Diego has to offer in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the top 21 restaurants and bars in San Diego for 2025?
The top 21 restaurants and bars in San Diego for 2025 include 8th & B Poke, Lost Cause Meadery, Encontro, Woomiok, Bernardo Winery, Hatsuzakura, Telefónica Gastro Park, Tribute Pizza, Quartyard, Lilo, Sea & Sky at Hotel La Jolla, George’s at the Cove, 31Thirtyone by Deckman’s, The Fishery, Roma Norte, The Lion’s Share, The Kebab Shop, Our Green Affair, Kindred, Little Lion Cafe, and Wayfarer Bread.
What is the significance of Lilo in Carlsbad?
Lilo, located in Carlsbad, has earned a Michelin star for its exceptional cuisine and was included in The New York Times’ 2025 list of the nation’s 50 best restaurants, highlighting its culinary excellence.
What is the focus of Sea & Sky at Hotel La Jolla?
Sea & Sky at Hotel La Jolla offers a refined dining experience with a menu that highlights fresh, local ingredients, earning acclaim from both critics and diners.
Who is behind 31Thirtyone by Deckman’s?
31Thirtyone by Deckman’s is helmed by Michelin-starred chef Drew Deckman and is a new addition to North Park’s dining scene, quickly becoming a standout in the area.
What is the specialty of The Fishery?
The Fishery is celebrated for its fresh seafood offerings, providing a dining experience that emphasizes quality and sustainability.
| Restaurant/Bar | Cuisine | Location | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8th & B Poke | Poke | National City | Fresh poke bowls, popular flavors |
| Lost Cause Meadery | Meadery | Local | Unique mead selection, community feel |
| Encontro | Diverse | Local | Quality ingredients, loyal following |
| Woomiok | Korean | Local | Authentic dishes |
| Bernardo Winery | Winery | Local | Historic setting |
| Hatsuzakura | Japanese | Local | Exquisite dishes, fresh ingredients |
| Telefónica Gastro Park | Food Park | Local | Variety of culinary offerings |
| Tribute Pizza | Pizza | Local | Modern take on classic pizza |
| Quartyard | Urban Space | Local | Beer garden, live music |
| Lilo | Fine Dining | Carlsbad | Michelin star, acclaimed cuisine |
| Sea & Sky at Hotel La Jolla | Refined Dining | La Jolla | Fresh local ingredients, praised ambiance |
| George’s at the Cove | Fine Dining | La Jolla | Ocean views, consistent quality |
| 31Thirtyone by Deckman’s | Innovative | North Park | Michelin-starred chef |
| The Fishery | Seafood | Local | Fresh offerings, sustainability focus |
| Roma Norte | Bar | Local | Expertly crafted cocktails |
| The Lion’s Share | Bar Food | Local | Inventive menu |
| The Kebab Shop | Kebab | Local | Affordable and flavorful |
| Our Green Affair | Healthy | Local | Fresh and nutritious |
| Kindred | Vegetarian/Vegan | Local | Appeals to all diners |
| Little Lion Cafe | Breakfast | Local | Hearty offerings |
| Wayfarer Bread | Bakery | Local | Artisanal breads |
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