Best Historic Restaurants in Imperial Beach

Been waiting to try this place since tasting their food during the Taste of the Gaslamp a few months ago. Everything was so good. We sat in the bar at a high top, which is how we roll anyway. We shared the teriyaki filet tips, my husband had the crab cakes and I had the pan seared macadamia halibut, both exceptional as well as we shared the Mac and cheese as our side. We left so satisfied and full. No room for dessert this time, but definitely will return and try some other items but will try to sit outside to take in the whole downtown vibe!

I took my wife for Valentines dinner to Saint James, and it was our first time at the restaurant. It is located in a historic building that we learned was built in 1912 and was at the time the tallest building in San Diego. The service was excellent, the servers and bussers were very attentive, friendly, and always checking to ensure we had what we needed. The food was delicious and very flavorful. I would recommend Saint James French Diner to anyone it was a really great experience!

Had an early lunch reservation for my birthday, seated on arrival. Given a cute birthday menu. Ordered a very strong & delicious Mai Tai, cup of chowder, and lobster rolls with fries. The chowder was very good, just thick enough and great flavor. The biscuit served with the chowed was still warm when it was served. The lobster roll was delicious, but the amount of lobster in the roll was skimpy compared to our previous visits to Ironside. Our server surprised me with a complimentary dessert to celebrate my birthday. My husband said he got a call prior to our reservation asking whose birthday it was and if they had any allergies. Thoughtful. Staff from the host to servers were all very welcoming.

Amy tended to our every need with jovial energy and a lovely smile all evening! The presentations and the dishes were outstanding from appetizer to dessert. Drinks were wonderful with no skimping on presentation or strength! Su chefs delivered our dishes and the manager visited our table several times to make sure our 36th Anniversary dinner experience was going smoothly. Seréa is absolutely worth every penny!!! The king salmon, filet mignon, jumbo shrimp, and scallops were fantastically flavored and prepared! Vegetables were cooked to perfection and dessert was unreal cheesecake and strawberries in a white chocolate conch shell! Top notch and literally one of the best dining experiences we've ever had! Thank you Amy and Seréa for a wonderful evening!

I had the pleasure of dining at Grant Grill in San Diego, and the experience was elevated by the exceptional service provided by Samuel. From the moment we were seated, he was attentive, professional, and genuinely friendly. Samuel’s knowledge of the menu was impressive—he provided thoughtful recommendations that perfectly suited our tastes. Our wine was perfectly paired and he ensured that each course arrived at just the right time. What stood out the most was his ability to balance professionalism with warmth, making us feel truly welcomed. It’s rare to find a server who combines efficiency, attentiveness, and a personal touch so seamlessly. Samuel exemplifies top-tier hospitality, and I highly recommend requesting him for an outstanding dining experience at Grant Grill! Thank you, Samuel, for making our meal memorable—we’ll definitely be back!