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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in La Mesa

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14 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Kettner Exchange restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1371)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Little Italy
Booked 57 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 Great Maple San Diego restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(4402)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Hillcrest
Booked 88 times today
Great Maple San Diego, nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Hillcrest, is a beacon of excellence in Contemporary American cuisine. This modern eatery is celebrated for its "outstanding" food and "exceptional" service, making it a favorite destination for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Diners rave about the delightful maple bacon donuts and "delectable" brisket hash, highlighting the creative use of fresh, local ingredients. Reviewers consistently praise the "huge portions" and "fantastic flavors," ensuring no one leaves hungry. With its inviting atmosphere and "friendly" staff, Great Maple offers a truly authentic and memorable dining experience that captures the essence of Contemporary American cuisine.
A photo of The Smoking Goat Restaurant restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2646)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • North Park
Booked 27 times today
The Smoking Goat Restaurant in North Park, San Diego, delivers an exceptional Contemporary French / American experience that has garnered rave reviews and awards, including the Gold Medallion for the best French Bistro in San Diego three years running. Executive Chef Fred Piehl's masterful blend of classic French techniques with the fresh, sustainable bounty of San Diego offers a "rustic, yet refined" culinary journey. Diners have lauded dishes such as the "perfectly cooked" duck l'orange and the "delicious" prime rib, each beautifully presented. With an attentive staff and a well-curated selection of wines and craft cocktails, The Smoking Goat promises a memorable dining experience.
A photo of Cowboy Star restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(4768)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 59 times today
Cowboy Star in downtown San Diego is a gem of Contemporary American cuisine, capturing the essence of regional American heirloom recipes with a modern twist. Their commitment to using locally sourced, natural, and organic ingredients shines through every dish, offering "exceptional quality" that diners rave about. Known for their impeccable service and warm atmosphere, Cowboy Star is celebrated for its perfectly cooked steaks, with one reviewer exclaiming, "the best steakhouse in San Diego, PERIOD." The diverse menu, which includes top-notch wine and cocktails, ensures that every visit is a "memorable and enjoyable experience," making Cowboy Star a must-visit for any steak lover.
A photo of Coco Maya restaurant
4.5
Awesome(380)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Little Italy
Booked 4 times today
Coco Maya in Little Italy, San Diego, is a vibrant cocktail bar that elevates your dining experience with "excellent drinks and ambience." Renowned for its diverse mezcal and tequila selection, this bar seamlessly blends tropical and rum-based cocktails, a hallmark that traces back to its roots at Miss B's Coconut Club. Guests rave about the "perfectly crafted espresso martini," which stands out among their expertly curated beverages. The lively rooftop setting, often accompanied by a DJ, adds a fun and energetic vibe that enhances the entire experience. If you're seeking a memorable cocktail adventure, Coco Maya promises to deliver!
A photo of Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1306)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Mission Hills
Booked 9 times today
Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar in Mission Hills, San Diego, is a seafood lover’s paradise, celebrated for its "Live Maine Lobster" nights that consistently delight diners. With an emphasis on quality and authenticity, their seafood offerings are praised for being "perfectly cooked" and "delicious." The restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere, combined with "exceptional service" from a friendly and professional staff, ensures a memorable dining experience. Their commitment to crafting incredible dishes, like the lobster, makes Harley Gray stand out in the seafood scene. If you’re seeking fresh, expertly prepared seafood in a warm neighborhood setting, Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar is a must-visit!
A photo of Topside Terrace restaurant
4.2
Awesome(389)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 6 times today
Topside Terrace is a vibrant gem in downtown San Diego, offering an unforgettable taste of authentic Californian cuisine. With an open-air terrace that perfectly captures the coastal spirit, the restaurant delights diners with its "incredible rooftop brunch experience" featuring dishes like Carne asada chilaquiles and Crab Benedict. The menu seamlessly blends Baja California and Classic American fare, all beautifully plated and complemented by contemporary cocktails. Guests rave about the "great food" and "attentive staff," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking genuine Californian flavors. Live music and happy hour specials further enhance this lively venue, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
A photo of Grant Grill restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1629)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 15 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.
A photo of Bronze Bird restaurant
4.5
Awesome(150)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 5 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.
A photo of NM Café at Neiman Marcus – San Diego restaurant
5.0
Exceptional(328)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Mission Valley
Booked 7 times today
NM Café at Neiman Marcus in San Diego offers an exceptional Californian dining experience, beautifully blending fresh, local ingredients with culinary innovation. Nestled in the heart of Mission Valley, this newly remodeled café is described by guests as a "hidden gem" where "delectable food and exceptional service" define every visit. The menu delights with dishes like salmon tacos and indulgent tuna melts, making it a "go-to spot for lunch." Diners praise the café's "sophisticated dining experience," with service that is "spot-on" and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for any occasion. Discover the essence of Californian cuisine at this chic and inviting locale.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Angelina
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    An absolutely wonderful experience! First time going and certainly not the last. Exceptional customer service from check in all the way till we left. Our waitress was so kind and loved her recommendations :)
    More info
    Great Maple San DiegoPrice: Moderate• American• Hillcrest
    4.8
  • Sean
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Fantastic food from start to finish. Definitely get the flank steak if you like heavily seasoned and super flavorful steak. The Ribeye was good as well, but the Flank Steak felt like a signature dish.
    More info
    Cowboy StarPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Downtown
    4.9
  • Mariah
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    First time dining here, I celebrated my 30th birthday. I received a sweet birthday postcard and had an AMAZING waitress named Sky. She was very kind, informative and just sooo sweet!! All of the food was beyond delicious. I have never been to a restaurant where I can say the food, service and atmosphere was all a 10/10. When I say everything was a 100/10, I am not being dramatic. We ordered about 7 or 8 dishes for the table and shared (between 4 people). Each bite was savory and melt in your mouth delicious. The drinks were yummy as well. I wholeheartedly recommend, I can’t wait to go back!!
    More info
    Kettner ExchangePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
    4.7
  • Charis
    Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 27, 2024
    Most amazing birthday meal tonight. The server was so attentive and made sure we all knew how the menu worked and how to have the best experience. The broccoli was the number 1 at our table followed by the chicken dish and the market fish. The s’mores dessert was so fun and delicious as well! Everything 10/10, worth the wait for a reservation.
    More info
    CampfirePrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Carlsbad
    4.8
  • DavidVIP
    San Diego •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 18, 2024
    Great customer service. Great food. Beautiful location, with great views of the sky. Great music with JB Saxx and his magic saxophone… 😎
    More info
    Coco MayaPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
    4.5

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in La Mesa

Discover the vibrant dining scene in La Mesa, East County San Diego, where contemporary American cuisine takes center stage. This area is a culinary hotspot, offering a diverse range of restaurants that specialize in modern American dishes, blending traditional flavors with innovative twists. Each establishment boasts a unique ambiance, from cozy, intimate settings to lively, upscale environments, catering to a variety of dining preferences. The menus are thoughtfully curated, featuring locally-sourced ingredients and seasonal specialties that highlight the region's abundant produce and artisanal products. Patrons can expect exceptional service and a memorable dining experience, underscored by a commitment to quality and creativity. As a cultural hub in San Diego, La Mesa's contemporary American restaurants not only satisfy the palate but also reflect the area's dynamic gastronomic excellence. Whether you're a local foodie or a visitor, the contemporary American eateries in La Mesa promise an enriching culinary journey.

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