Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. San Diego

Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Mission Hills

Price
Regions
Neighborhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Award-winning
Accessibility

35 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina restaurant
3.9
Excellent(1148)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Old Town
Booked 4 times today
Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina is an exceptional spot for authentic American cuisine, offering a delightful experience in the heart of San Diego’s historic Old Town. Diners rave about the "great service" and "fantastic views," making it an ideal destination for both locals and visitors. The rooftop setting adds a unique charm, perfect for a sunset dinner. The Sunday Champagne brunch is a standout, described as "excellent" with "lots to choose from." Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, the "impeccable service" and delicious food ensure a memorable dining experience.
A photo of Kettner Exchange restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1376)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Little Italy
Booked 68 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(4415)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Hillcrest
Booked 60 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 Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1308)
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 Coco Maya restaurant
4.4
Awesome(382)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Little Italy
Booked 5 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 Cowboy Star restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(4784)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 67 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 Covewood - Mission Bay Resort restaurant
4.2
Awesome(544)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Mission Bay
Booked 1 time today
Covewood - Mission Bay Resort offers an exceptional American dining experience that captures the essence of California Coastal Cuisine with a delightful twist. Located in the picturesque Mission Bay, San Diego, this restaurant has garnered rave reviews for its "delicious and beautifully presented" dishes, such as the bold Caesar salad and perfectly cooked burgers. Diners appreciate the "wonderful ambiance" and "fantastic food and service," making it an "unexpected gem" for locals and visitors alike. The restaurant's ability to pair fresh seafood with wood-grilled vegetables and local wines creates a memorable culinary journey that truly stands out in American cuisine.
A photo of The Smoking Goat Restaurant restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2650)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • North Park
Booked 29 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 Draft restaurant
4.0
Excellent(125)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Mission Bay
Booked 2 times today
Located directly on the Mission Beach boardwalk, Draft Restaurant is serving up 54 beers on tap pairing the surf and sand with a wide variety of craft beers. But the appeal doesn’t stop at the #brewsandviews; Come hungry and experience a fresh take on beachside dining featuring casual, handcrafted fare from Executive Chef Luis Romero.
A photo of Topside Terrace restaurant
4.2
Awesome(389)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown
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.

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • FrankVIP
    San Diego •15 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    The service was the standout! Our waitress was very professional and prompt and the food was delivered very quickly and just as ordered. They were very good with noting food allergies. The food was very good but nothing exceptional. Definitely a good breakfast place for sure, just don’t expect to be blown away. The chilaquiles were very tasty but the avocado was hard as a rock and the chorizo was hardly noticeable. The salsas and chips and egg and sauce were delicious though. The French toast logs are massive and easily enough for two people. The dining room is super pretty with a very chill and relaxed but also kind of resort feel. Very quiet when we were in for a weekday breakfast which was nice. Small parking lot on site and plenty of street parking nearby.
    More info
    Great Maple San DiegoPrice: Moderate• American• Hillcrest
    4.8
  • Ricci
    Portland / Oregon •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    First time here - recommended by guy at the airport. Food was amazing as was the service and ambience. Definitely a must go place in San Diego.
    More info
    Kettner ExchangePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
    4.7
  • Nikita
    San Diego •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    The service I received from Lyis & the staff was INCREDIBLE! I was able to meet the chefc& the manager stopped by to make sure we were enjoying ourselves. The food was TOP TIER! Steak was tender, the scallops melted in your mouth, the soup was PACKED with flavor. I will be returning.
    More info
    Cowboy StarPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Downtown
    4.9
  • TanaVIP
    San Diego •67 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    This was our first time trying Coco Maya. We decided to go for lunch on a busy Sunday afternoon in Little Italy and had made a reservation. The service was excellent and the food was very good. My disappointment was how loud it was with a DJ. The music was fine but we wanted something a little quieter for a Sunday afternoon.
    More info
    Coco MayaPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
    4.4
  • Jeanne
    San Diego •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Beautiful atmosphere! Open air feel. Service was wonderful! If you’re choosing between the Fish tacos and the BLTA, get the BLTA. The Tacos are OK, but the Fish was nearly invisible.
    More info
    Harley Gray Kitchen & BarPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Mission Hills
    4.6

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Mission Hills

Discover the vibrant dining scene of Mission Hills, San Diego, where contemporary American cuisine takes center stage. This neighborhood is renowned for its culinary creativity, offering an array of restaurants that showcase innovative and expertly crafted dishes. Each establishment in Mission Hills provides a unique atmosphere, from cozy, intimate settings to lively, upscale environments, catering to a variety of dining preferences. The menus are diverse, featuring everything from classic comfort foods with a modern twist to inventive dishes that push culinary boundaries. Patrons can expect top-notch service and a commitment to quality that enhances each dining experience. Whether you're a local foodie or a visitor looking to indulge in San Diego’s best, the contemporary American restaurants in Mission Hills promise an unforgettable gastronomic adventure. Enjoy the essence of American dining with a contemporary flair in this charming San Diego neighborhood.

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo