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

Best Tapas Restaurants in Hillcrest

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

9 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of MOTHERSHIP restaurant
1. MOTHERSHIP
4.7
Exceptional(428)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas • North Park
Booked 59 times today
Mothership in North Park, San Diego, beckons diners to embark on an interplanetary culinary adventure with its Fusion/Eclectic cuisine. This hidden gem has been recognized by Esquire Magazine as one of the Best Bars in America, offering an experience that's "truly out of this world!" The restaurant's vibrant atmosphere is meticulously themed with a blend of a crashed spaceship and alien cave, making every visit feel like a journey to another galaxy. Guests rave about the "deliciously creative" small plates and "spectacular" exotic cocktails, which are as much a visual feast as they are a delight to the palate. Indulge in this unique dining escapade where flavors defy earthly bounds!
A photo of Botanica restaurant
2. Botanica
4.6
Exceptional(60)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas • North Park
Booked 13 times today
Botanica, nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of North Park, San Diego, is a haven for those who cherish exquisite Tapas and Small Plates. The restaurant crafts an unforgettable experience with its delectable array of small bites that perfectly complement their artisanal cocktails. Patrons rave about the "creative small plates" that elevate any dining occasion with their sophisticated flavors. The ambiance is both lively and intimate, making it an ideal spot for a cozy yet vibrant dining experience. Praised for its "delicious food" and "amazing service," Botanica ensures that every visit feels like a celebration of culinary artistry and exceptional hospitality.
A photo of Mimmo's Italian Village restaurant
3. Mimmo's Italian Village
4.4
Awesome(668)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas • Little Italy
Booked 14 times today
Mimmo's Italian Village, nestled in San Diego's vibrant Little Italy, is a hidden gem renowned for its exquisite Tapas/Small Plates cuisine. This family-owned establishment, steeped in history since 1973, offers an authentic taste of Italy with every bite. Diners rave about the "fantastic food" and "exceptional service," making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. The homemade dishes, prepared fresh daily with quality ingredients, capture the essence of Italian culinary traditions. Guests are particularly enchanted by the "bold sauces" that evoke flavors reminiscent of a true Italian Nonna's kitchen. Experience the charm and authenticity of Mimmo's for a delightful tapas adventure.
A photo of Pali Wine Co. Little Italy Tasting Room restaurant
4. Pali Wine Co. Little Italy Tasting Room
4.7
Exceptional(147)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas • Little Italy
Booked 12 times today
Pali Wine Co. Little Italy Tasting Room is an outstanding destination for anyone seeking the finest Winery cuisine. Nestled in the heart of San Diego's vibrant Little Italy, this family-owned gem captures the essence of the California Central Coast's diverse wine-growing heritage. Patrons rave about the “excellent wine selection” and the “great ambience,” making it an ideal spot for a casual meal or a memorable date night. With offerings like their celebrated Pali Pinot Noirs and Neighborhood's ‘Blood Moon’ red wine, guests are sure to find a favorite. The cozy atmosphere, attentive staff, and delectable sharable plates elevate every visit to a delightful experience.
A photo of Trust Restaurant restaurant
5. Trust Restaurant
new
4.7
Exceptional(1130)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas • North Park
Booked 53 times today
We’re a neighborhood restaurant, at our heart. A place for our community to gather, to celebrate, to raise yet another glass in a toast to good tidings. We believe in bold flavors, cooked simply over an open flame. We believe in seasonality, in forging relationships with local farmers, makers, and purveyors to bring you the bounty this fine city has to offer. We believe in the power of wine and cocktails to elevate your meal, to create an experience that, when paired with superior service, creates something completely unique, forging a bond of trust, one would say, between you and us. These four walls were meant for you. Welcome.
A photo of The Nolen restaurant
6. The Nolen
new
(0)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas • Downtown
Booked 24 times today
The Nolen is a destination rooftop bar and lounge that honors modern, timeless cocktails and a renewed spirit of community. Named for John Nolen, a city-planning pioneer who mapped out much of San Diego's early landscape, The Nolen is perched on the 14th floor rooftop of the newly constructed Courtyard San Diego Gaslamp/Convention Center. Local and visiting imbibers can take a quick elevator ride up to discover a spirited escape from downtown that offers sweeping city views and a contemporary interpretation of the classic speakeasy.
A photo of Captain’s Quarters restaurant
7. Captain’s Quarters
4.7
Exceptional(81)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas • Pacific Beach
Booked 27 times today
Captain’s Quarters in Pacific Beach, San Diego, is a cocktail bar that sails beyond expectations with its exceptional gin-focused creations and innovative spirit blends. Guests are captivated by the “amazing interior” and “super cool ambiance” that transports them to a nautical adventure. The talented bartenders, like Celia and Austin, craft “really great cocktails” that keep patrons coming back for more. The Beverage Director, Eric Johnson, showcases a delightful twist on classics with rum, mezcal, and more, ensuring a “delicious” experience for every palate. With its “creative and cozy” decor and “top cocktails in the beach,” it's a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts.
A photo of Zest Wine Bistro restaurant
8. Zest Wine Bistro
4.8
Exceptional(60)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas • Lemon Grove
Welcome to Zest, your new neighborhood wine bar nestled in Lemon Grove. Come gather for unique wine, tasteful small plates and not-to-miss events!Zest Wine Bistro’s intimate and cozy interior is the perfect place for evening noshing and sipping. You’ll find a small menu featuring elaborate charcuterie boards, small plates and sweets. Our wine menu highlights premium wines not typically found by the glass, as well as lesser known labels from all over the world. An eclectic beer list showcases global markets, as well as local craft brews.
A photo of Bar Ella restaurant
9. Bar Ella
4.1
Excellent(4)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas • Pacific Beach
Booked 1 time today
Bar Ella, nestled in the vibrant Pacific Beach neighborhood just a stone’s throw away from the sandy shores, represents the culmination of owner Krista Barrella’s passion for culinary excellence and hospitality. After a remarkable 20-year journey in the restaurant industry, Krista envisioned an establishment that seamlessly merges her classic East Coast culinary heritage with the vibrant West Coast ambiance.
‘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
From verified diners like you

Explore OpenTable

Discover
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Our sites
Businesses
  • Delight more diners
  • Open for Business Blog
Join us on
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2025 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