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Best Tapas Restaurants in University City/Golden Triangle

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6 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Lobby Lounge at Fairmont Grand Del Mar restaurant
1. Lobby Lounge at Fairmont Grand Del Mar
4.3
Awesome(10)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas • Carmel Valley
Booked 3 times today
The Lobby Lounge at Fairmont Grand Del Mar has been magnificently reimagined to combine the lavish splendor of Italian palazzos with the natural grandeur of Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve. Indulge in afternoon tea as the San Diego sun casts its golden light through large arched windows, or linger into the evening over inspired tapas, cocktails, and elevated programming under the warm glow of Venetian glass chandeliers. Take in the beauty of Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve —or while sipping a craft cocktail in the bar. In a specially commissioned mural that spans all four walls, artist Jim Wodark pays homage to the canyon’s most iconic elements: its ancient rocks, cascading waterfall, and distant mountains.Live entertainment Fridays and Saturdays 8:00 pm - 12:00 am.LIVE LIMITLESS - Join the rewards program designed with you in mind. As a member of ALL – Accor Live Limitless, you’ll earn points on dining and hotel reservations worldwide. Enroll at https://bit.ly/3gvDtJG
A photo of Botanica restaurant
2. Botanica
4.7
Exceptional(30)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas • North Park
Booked 23 times today
Botanica in North Park, San Diego, is celebrated for its exceptionally crafted cocktails and delightful Tapas / Small Plates, making it a must-visit spot for an elevated dining experience. Patrons rave about the "creative and delicious" small bites that perfectly complement their innovative drinks. A standout feature is their Omakase, which offers a sampler of chef's choice bites, ideal for sharing and tasting a variety of what the kitchen has to offer. The ambiance of Botanica, described as a "sexy artsy speakeasy," adds to the allure, creating a perfect backdrop for enjoying high-quality, beautifully presented Tapas. With enthusiastic reviews about the "friendly and attentive" service and the unique, artistic decor, Botanica has secured its place as a top destination for Tapas lovers in San Diego.
A photo of Captain’s Quarters restaurant
3. Captain’s Quarters
4.7
Exceptional(60)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas • Pacific Beach
Booked 43 times today
Step into Captain’s Quarters in Pacific Beach, San Diego, and experience a Spanish cuisine adventure that truly stands apart. Inspired by the luxurious and moody ambiance of a 17th-century captain's quarters, this restaurant offers an imaginative menu crafted by Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski. Delight in Spanish classics with a twist, such as Manchego-Prosciutto "Sandwiches" and Papa's Braves, which guests describe as "tiny but tasty, like eating diamonds." The authenticity and creativity of the dishes are echoed in reviews, with one guest celebrating the "divine" prosciutto sandwich. This dining gem not only promises exquisite flavors but also an atmospheric journey back in time, making every visit memorable. Whether you're a gin enthusiast or a culinary explorer, Captain’s Quarters offers a unique blend of history, luxury, and exceptional Spanish fare.
A photo of Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - San Diego, CA | Scripps Ranch restaurant
4. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - San Diego, CA | Scripps Ranch
4.5
Awesome(991)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas • Scripps Ranch
Booked 4 times today
Experience the pinnacle of Japanese barbecue at Gyu-Kaku in Scripps Ranch, San Diego, where grilling meets gourmet in an atmosphere of conviviality and culinary delight. Renowned for its authentic yakiniku experience, Gyu-Kaku offers a menu boasting succulent premium meats like the beloved Harami Skirt Steak and Prime Kalbi Short Rib, praised by diners as "consistently amazing" and "delicious every time." Guests rave about the interactive dining experience, where you become the chef at your own table-top grill. Revel in the rich flavors of carefully marinated meats and the restaurant's signature dishes, complemented by an extensive selection of Japanese beverages. Whether it's a family outing, a romantic date, or a festive gathering, Gyu-Kaku's combination of exceptional cuisine and vibrant atmosphere makes every visit memorable. As one guest enthusiastically recommends, "Definitely a must visit for any meat lovers. 10/10 recommend!"
A photo of Barrel & Board Social restaurant
5. Barrel & Board Social
4.8
Exceptional(324)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas • Hillcrest
Booked 14 times today
Barrel & Board Social in Hillcrest, San Diego, is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Californian cuisine with a touch of innovation. Celebrated as one of the "Top 10 Hottest Cocktail Spots" by EATER and a "Top 10 DINERS CHOICE Winner" on Open Table, this restaurant is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional food. Guests rave about the "fresh tasting food," particularly the charcuterie boards which are described as "immaculate" and "out of this world." The culinary experience is enhanced by expertly crafted mocktails and a welcoming staff. As one guest puts it, "the best charcuterie spot in San Diego," making Barrel & Board Social a true gem in Californian dining.
A photo of Tapas Picasso restaurant
6. Tapas Picasso
(0)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas • Hillcrest
Tapas Picasso Spanish Restaurante, in San Diego, specializes in delectable tapas and continentally-inspired entrées in its warm and relaxing eatery. You can order a couple small tapas dishes as an appetizer, or several to customize your own meal. Some of the most tantalizing tapas include the Spanish sausages in red wine sauce, the salmon in saffron sauce, the deep-fried artichoke hearts, the cheese ravioli with blue cheese cream cheese and lox and the chicken breast in lemon cream sauce. Larger entrées, like the New York steak strips in garlic sauce, the scallops in white wine sauce with cured ham and the chicken breast in plum sherry sauce, all of which are perfectly prepared. Tapas Picasso Spanish Restaurante's desserts make the best end to your meal. Enjoy the sweet and tangy Xeres sherry flan with mango and strawberry sauces for the perfect finale dish.
‘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
  • KaliyaniVIP
    San Diego •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    Incredible 5 course meal experience. Our server was very knowledgeable on the menu and offered excellent choices for drinks to pair well with the dishes. This was my first visit and I’ll definitely return! 10/10
    More info
    BotanicaPrice: Moderate• Japanese• North Park
    •
    4.7
  • Brett
    San Diego •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We had the most memorable and incefibke experience! Austin took brilliant and practiced care of us—his Dealer’s Choice drink, incoming an elote liqueur, was GOD TIER. Just an incredible experience. We can’t wait to return!
    More info
    Captain’s QuartersPrice: Expensive• Tapas / Small Plates• Pacific Beach
    •
    4.7
  • Sarah
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Magical experience. Good super delicious. Took my parents and they loved it. Drinks are epic.
    More info
    MOTHERSHIPPrice: Moderate• Tapas / Small Plates• North Park
    •
    4.8
  • Katherine
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    The lobby was beautifully decorated for the season. The tea options were wide with oolong to herbal all laid out with matching tea pots, cups and saucers. The sandwiches were a modern take on the traditional ones with a sweet potato and maple, salmon with pomegranate garnish, and a turkey salad brioche. The vanilla bean and fruit scones served with strawberry-blueberry jam and clotted cream were excellent. The desserts were also beautiful and delicious.
    More info
    Lobby Lounge at Fairmont Grand Del MarPrice: Moderate• Californian• Carmel Valley
    •
    4.3
  • Briana
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Other than the very loud group next to our table, the experience was great. I made a last minute reservation, was 15 minutes late, and was still able to secure my table through text to indicate I was on my way. The food and drinks were great, especially the Brussels sprouts. I just wish they would reconsider how the Caesar salad is presented. And thanks to Joseph, our waiter.
    More info
    Bolero RestaurantePrice: Expensive• Tapas / Small Plates• Temecula
    •
    4.7

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