Best Southwest American Restaurants in Santee

22 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Black Angus Steakhouse - El Cajon restaurant

1. Black Angus Steakhouse - El Cajon

4.3

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • El Cajon / Lakeside

Booked 15 times today

Black Angus Steakhouse - El Cajon has been a cornerstone of authentic American cuisine since 1964, expertly embodying the essence of quality and tradition. Known for its "delicious steaks cooked to perfection," the restaurant's menu showcases aged cuts seasoned and flame-grilled to excellence. Diners rave about the "outstanding service" and friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for both "fun family dinners" and intimate evenings. The handcrafted experience dinners, such as the Moonshine dinner, receive high praise for their "fantastic ambiance and exceptional dishes." With consistent "quality food" and "affordable prices," Black Angus Steakhouse is an American dining delight.

A photo of BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse - La Mesa restaurant

2. BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse - La Mesa

3.8

Excellent(79)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • La Mesa

Booked 5 times today

Time counts at BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse. Since our humble beginnings back in 1978, we've continued to refine our brewhouse experience to make BJ's a place where you can make the most of any meal. We want BJ's to be a place where the moment you leave is the moment you plan on coming back. We pride ourselves in our craft and attention to detail. Our guests come here for our award-winning handcrafted beer. They come here for the Southern California twist we've put on the Chicago-style deep dish pizza. And they come here for our Pizookies®, our world-renowned dessert. But above all we know people come here to make their good times better. So in many ways we haven't just crafted a brand, but a mindset. And our guests are the reason for this. And it's because of them we're continually striving to make sure every moment they choose to spend with us counts. Welcome to BJ's, a restaurant with a Brewhouse soul.

3. Social Tap

4.5

Awesome(33)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Downtown

Welcome to your new favorite pregame. Social Tap San Diego sits at the edge of Petco Park, and is the perfect place for Padres fans, locals, and visitors alike to gather for high quality cocktails and bites. This elevated bar scene takes the best of sports bars to a new level, bringing you an incredible dining experience while you cheer for your favorite team.

4. Casa Gabriela

4.6

Exceptional(768)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • La Mesa

Booked 33 times today

Casa Gabriela in Downtown La Mesa is a breakfast haven that seamlessly blends authentic Mexican flavors with a modern twist. Chef Gabriela Lopez masterfully infuses her Guadalajara roots with Tijuana influences, offering a breakfast menu that stands out for its quality and creativity. Guests rave about the "best brunches in SD," highlighting dishes like the scrumptious breakfast burrito and the delightful chilaquiles with salsa verde. The ambiance is equally enticing, with a charming garden patio that enhances the dining experience. Casa Gabriela's breakfast offerings are a symphony of flavors that promise to transport you to the heart of Mexico with every bite.

A photo of Farmer's Table - La Mesa restaurant

5. Farmer's Table - La Mesa

4.3

Awesome(2025)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • La Mesa

Booked 10 times today

Farmer's Table - La Mesa is a true gem in the heart of La Mesa, offering an authentic American dining experience with a modern twist. This family-run eatery is renowned for its farm-to-fork approach, crafting dishes with locally sourced organic ingredients that elevate traditional American flavors. Guests rave about the "wonderful omelets, salads, and mouth-watering pizzas" that consistently impress. The inviting, family-friendly atmosphere makes it perfect for gatherings, whether it's a magical brunch or a cozy dinner. With "excellent food and service," Farmer's Table stands out as a delightful destination for anyone seeking honest, high-quality American cuisine.

A photo of 94th Aero Squadron - San Diego restaurant

6. 94th Aero Squadron - San Diego

4.1

Excellent(3225)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Kearny Mesa

Booked 20 times today

The 94th Aero Squadron in San Diego is a true gem for steak enthusiasts, offering an authentic and memorable dining experience. Celebrated for its "USDA Choice Prime Beef steaks" and "slow-roasted Angus prime rib," this restaurant ensures every steak lover's dreams come true. Nestled in Kearny Mesa, it blends history with culinary excellence in a setting reminiscent of a World War I French farmhouse. Diners rave about the "beautiful outdoor patios" and "excellent service," making it a perfect spot for both casual and special occasions. With its unique ambiance and top-notch steak offerings, the 94th Aero Squadron is a must-visit for anyone seeking exceptional steak cuisine.

A photo of El Torito - La Mesa restaurant

7. El Torito - La Mesa

4.4

Awesome(454)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • La Mesa

Booked 2 times today

The authority in great Mexican food for more than 65 years. Offering a memorable experience to make each guest feel like family.

A photo of Butcher Shop Steakhouse - San Diego restaurant

8. Butcher Shop Steakhouse - San Diego

4.5

Awesome(2586)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Kearny Mesa

Booked 18 times today

Butcher Shop Steakhouse in San Diego offers a quintessential American dining experience with its Chicago-style steakhouse ambiance. This hidden gem is renowned for its USDA Choice & Prime Midwestern steaks, expertly grilled over oak wood, providing a "delightful charred exterior and a hint of smoky richness." Diners rave about the "juicy prime rib" and "perfectly cooked ribeye," while the diverse menu ensures something for every palate. The restaurant's atmosphere is often described as "friendly and relaxing," making it an ideal spot for celebrations or intimate dinners. With "attentive and friendly" service, Butcher Shop Steakhouse guarantees a memorable American cuisine experience.

9. Boujiemana

4.8

Exceptional(147)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Serra Mesa

Booked 14 times today

BoujieMana in Serra Mesa, San Diego, is a shining example of exceptional American cuisine. Guests rave about its "inventive, beautifully presented, and delicious" dishes, which showcase the perfect blend of traditional American flavors with a modern twist. Known for its impeccable service and warm, inviting ambiance, this hidden gem offers an unforgettable dining experience. The menu's standout items, like the "perfectly aged steak" and "Boujie burger," are crafted with the finest ingredients, emphasizing quality at every turn. With its reputation for remarkable food and atmosphere, BoujieMana is a must-visit for anyone seeking the best of American dining.

A photo of The Riviera Supper Club and Turquoise Room restaurant

10. The Riviera Supper Club and Turquoise Room

4.6

Exceptional(31)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • La Mesa

Booked 5 times today

The Riviera Supper Club and Turquoise Room in La Mesa offers a captivating grill experience that sets it apart as a top-tier destination for Grill cuisine. Diners rave about the option to "grill your steaks yourself at the communal grill," creating a unique and engaging dining atmosphere. For those who prefer their meals prepared, the restaurant boasts expertly grilled steaks with an array of mouthwatering entrees. Guests frequently highlight the "amazing seasoned meat" and impeccable service, making every visit memorable. With live jazz music enhancing the experience, the Riviera Supper Club is not just a meal, but a full sensory delight!

‘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

C
Chris
Denver / Colorado •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Incredible service, love the chip! Easy to make a reservation, the full staff was amazing. Good gluten free options as well.
More info
Blanco Cocina + Cantina - CoronadoPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Coronado
•
4.7
S
SARAVIP
San Diego •135 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Wow! This was our first time visiting Ortega’s and we were impressed with the great tasting Mexican food. It was like being in Baja, MX except we didn’t have to cross the border. The Casamigo margaritas, table side guacamole, steak tacos and steak burrito with extra beans was delicious. We will definitely be back. Excellent!
More info
Ortega's A Mexican BistroPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Hillcrest
•
4.6
N
Nicole
Phoenix / Arizona •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on Jan 3, 2025
The staff was very attentive to our group of 11. We were pleased with the quality of food and the time it took to prepare.
More info
Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Fashion ValleyPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Mission Valley
•
4.8
M
Melanie
San Diego •59 reviews
4.0
Dined on Dec 26, 2024
Definitely glad we made reservations! It was Christmas night and super busy! Our server was great. Food was good, got a Carnitas taco and it was gushy and had no pork taste. We decided it was pot roast not carnitas! Very disappointed. The white rice was interesting, never seen that at a Mexican restaurant before. Beans were good. The other taco I had was delicious! I think it was called the Gringo. I will go back just for that taco!! Overall it was a good night! We will be back
More info
Casa De Freds, Tacos y TequilaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Old Town
•
4.5
C
Cynthia
San Diego •11 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 10, 2024
The food was delicious! The drinks were also delicious! Food is moderately priced, but the drinks are quite expensive! Guacamole was plentiful and very tasty! Our server was extremely helpful and personable! First time at blind and we would come again!
More info
Blind BurroPrice: Moderate• Mexican / Southwestern• Downtown
•
4.7

Explore OpenTable

Santee

Mexican

Best Southwest American Restaurants in Santee

Price

Regions

Neighborhoods

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating Options

Accessibility

22 restaurants available nearby

1. Black Angus Steakhouse - El Cajon

2. BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse - La Mesa

3. Social Tap

4. Casa Gabriela

5. Farmer's Table - La Mesa

6. 94th Aero Squadron - San Diego

7. El Torito - La Mesa

8. Butcher Shop Steakhouse - San Diego

9. Boujiemana

10. The Riviera Supper Club and Turquoise Room

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable