Best Californian Restaurants in National City

30 restaurants available nearby

1. insideOUT

4.8

Exceptional(2369)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Hillcrest

Booked 161 times today

insideOUT in Hillcrest, San Diego, is a must-visit destination for Mediterranean cuisine enthusiasts. The restaurant's California-Mediterranean inspired menu, crafted by Executive Chef Johnny Duran, is a testament to the use of seasonally fresh, local ingredients, delivering an authentic and flavorful experience. Guests rave about the “absolutely delicious” food and the “magical” ambiance, creating a lively and memorable dining experience. The holiday-themed decor adds a whimsical touch, making it a favorite spot for festive occasions. As one delighted diner put it, insideOUT “never disappoints” with its impeccable service and attention to detail, ensuring a dining experience that is both "beautiful and yummy."

2. Herb & Wood

4.6

Exceptional(6504)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Little Italy

Booked 100 times today

Herb & Wood in San Diego's vibrant Little Italy is a shining example of exquisite American cuisine. Celebrated Chef Brian Malarkey crafts a menu that elevates rustic, wood-fired dishes, blending Mediterranean flair with California's commitment to seasonality and sustainability. Diners rave about the "incredible dinner" experience, showcasing "amazing, flavorful food" and "outstanding service." The ambiance is described as "beautiful" and "welcoming," making every visit memorable. Signature dishes like the pork belly and filet mignon are praised for their exceptional taste. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a night out, Herb & Wood promises a "truly memorable culinary experience."

A photo of The Prado at Balboa Park restaurant

3. The Prado at Balboa Park

4.6

Exceptional(7932)

Price: Moderate

• Californian • Downtown

Booked 50 times today

Nestled in the heart of San Diego's historic Balboa Park, The Prado stands out not only for its California cuisine but also as an exceptional Cocktail Bar. The ambiance is warm and enchanting, setting the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable cocktail experience. Guests have raved about the "excellent cocktails," with standout mentions like the pradoritas, which are described as "the best" margaritas around. The staff's knowledge and passion for mixology ensure that each drink is crafted to perfection, adding to the charm of this iconic location. Whether you're a cocktail aficionado or a casual diner, The Prado promises a delightful and memorable experience.

4. Animae

4.7

Exceptional(3271)

Price: Very Expensive

• Californian • Downtown

Booked 88 times today

Animae, nestled in the heart of Downtown San Diego, is a shining beacon of Californian cuisine, masterfully intertwined with Asian influences. Celebrated Chef Brian Malarkey elevates the dining experience by harnessing the essence of California cooking, using local produce and seasonal ingredients in every dish. The restaurant's coal-fired oven and grill bring a delightful depth to creations like the "melt-in-your-mouth" A5 Wagyu and the "incredibly flavorful" tomahawk tocino, leaving diners in awe. Animae's vibrant atmosphere and artful presentation make it a "must-visit" for those seeking an authentic and innovative taste of California's culinary landscape.

5. Grant Grill

4.8

Exceptional(1629)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Downtown

Booked 16 times today

Grant Grill, nestled in the heart of Downtown San Diego, masterfully delivers an unparalleled Contemporary American dining experience. Celebrated for its "world-class" food and "outstanding service," this iconic restaurant has been a beacon of culinary excellence since 1951. The menu, reflecting the best of seasonal ingredients, offers a fresh approach to American classics, ensuring every dish is a standout. Diners rave about the "superb" seabass and "divine" pork chop, while the elegant ambiance and attentive service create a perfect setting for any occasion. Whether enjoying a leisurely brunch or an exquisite dinner, Grant Grill promises an unforgettable experience, redefining Contemporary American cuisine.

6. Kettner Exchange

4.7

Exceptional(1376)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Little Italy

Booked 60 times today

Kettner Exchange in Little Italy, San Diego, offers an exceptional Asian fusion experience that is both inventive and authentic. Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski’s creations have earned the restaurant a coveted spot on the Michelin Guide's Bib Gourmand list since 2019, showcasing high-quality meals at accessible prices. Diners rave about the "spicy garlic noodles" and "juicy cheeseburger special," underscoring the delightful fusion of flavors. The rooftop patio with stunning harbor views enhances the dining ambiance, making it perfect for any occasion. Guests frequently praise the "stellar service" and "amazing cocktails," solidifying Kettner Exchange as a must-visit destination for Asian cuisine enthusiasts.

A photo of Ironside Fish & Oyster restaurant

7. Ironside Fish & Oyster

4.5

Awesome(4577)

Price: Moderate

• Californian • Little Italy

Ironside Fish & Oyster in San Diego's Little Italy is a quintessential hotspot for authentic American cuisine, seamlessly blending traditional and contemporary flavors. This gem pays homage to its roots in the fishing industry with a mouthwatering menu that features renowned dishes such as the lobster roll and clam chowder, praised for being “chock full of clams.” The vibrant atmosphere and top-notch service are frequently highlighted in reviews, with one diner noting the “excellent experience, food, and ambience.” With a stellar raw bar and an enticing happy hour, Ironside promises a “delightful experience” that diners find irresistible.

8. Madison

4.5

Awesome(3036)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • University Heights

Booked 46 times today

Madison, nestled in the vibrant University Heights of San Diego, is a culinary gem that offers an authentic Italian dining experience like no other. Michelin-recognized Chef Mario Cassineri crafts exquisite dishes that have diners raving "the food and drinks were amazing," making each meal memorable. The restaurant's ambiance is described as "airy, romantic, stylish, and peaceful," perfectly complementing the rich flavors of its traditional Italian fare. Madison's commitment to quality and creativity shines through in every dish, with standout favorites like the flavorful chicken piccata and vegan pasta. Whether for brunch or dinner, Madison promises an unparalleled Italian culinary journey.

9. Bronze Bird

4.6

Exceptional(152)

Price: Moderate

• Californian • Downtown

Booked 14 times today

Bronze Bird, nestled in the vibrant Downtown San Diego, offers a delightful foray into Contemporary American cuisine, skillfully blending So Cal comfort fare with modern culinary techniques. Located in The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, this spot is revered for its "exceptional" service and "delicious" dishes, which make it a perfect pre-theater dining destination. Diners rave about its inventive twists on classic dishes and the attentive staff that ensures every visit is memorable. The restaurant's ambiance complements its culinary offerings, creating a "casual and fun" atmosphere that keeps guests coming back for more. Whether it's the perfectly grilled steak or the divine tomato soup, Bronze Bird promises an authentic and satisfying Contemporary American dining experience.

10. ALBACA

3.6

Very Good(106)

Price: Expensive

• Californian • Coronado

Booked 1 time today

ALBACA at Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa offers a delightful dining experience surrounded by the stunning beauty of Coronado. This restaurant shines with its emphasis on fresh, local ingredients, making every dish a standout. Guests rave about the "delicious sushi-grade tuna appetizer" and the perfectly cooked "lobster pasta loaded with YUGE pieces of lobster claw." The sunny California setting, combined with "super friendly service" and a "lovely setting by the Bay," creates an inviting atmosphere for all. Whether enjoying a meal poolside or near a cozy fire pit, diners can expect an unforgettable culinary adventure at ALBACA.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

A
AdamVIP
Washington, D.C. Area •15 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
One of the best meals of my life, and worth every penny. Our server made some amazing suggestions, so definitely ask. The cabbage, for example, was one of the best dishes of the night and we almost skipped it.
More info
AnimaePrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary Asian• Downtown
•
4.7
M
MariaVIP
Cleveland / Akron / Canton •103 reviews
4.0
Dined 1 day ago
Delicious appetizers and easy to share. Vegetables never tasted as good - love the trumpet mushrooms and baba and carrots! Hamachi appetizer was very exciting also. Service is quick and super efficient, although sometimes a bit too efficient as the server seems to want to run away as quick as possible
More info
Herb & WoodPrice: Expensive• Californian• Little Italy
•
4.6
M
Morgan
Key West / Florida Keys •1 review
4.0
Dined 1 day ago
Awesome. I bet themed events are 10/10. One of the better eating experiences in town.
More info
insideOUTPrice: Expensive• Californian• Hillcrest
•
4.8
C
CarolVIP
Denver / Colorado •78 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
We always have a great experience at Prado. The salads are delicious and you can add shrimp, salmon or chicken. The hamburger is huge and the fries are so good. I love the Arugula salad with salmon. The salmon was cooked perfectly. My husband had the shrimp cobb salad that was very large and filling. We enjoy having a nice glass of wine while soaking up the lovely view from the patio and the warm sunshine. We'll be back soon.
More info
The Prado at Balboa ParkPrice: Moderate• Californian• Downtown
•
4.6
LE
LouiseE
San Diego •14 reviews
5.0
Dined on Apr 1, 2023
worth every penny and every calorie - bravo chef bradley and staff!
More info
Addison By William BradleyPrice: Very Expensive• Californian• Del Mar
•
4.8

Explore OpenTable

National City

Californian

Best Californian Restaurants in National City

Price

Regions

Neighborhoods

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating Options

Award-winning

Accessibility

30 restaurants available nearby

1. insideOUT

2. Herb & Wood

3. The Prado at Balboa Park

4. Animae

5. Grant Grill

6. Kettner Exchange

7. Ironside Fish & Oyster

8. Madison

9. Bronze Bird

10. ALBACA

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable