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Best Tapas Restaurants in Kearny Mesa

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10 restaurants available nearby

A photo of MOTHERSHIP restaurant
1. MOTHERSHIP
4.7
Exceptional(408)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas • North Park
Booked 47 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(51)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas • North Park
Booked 8 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 Captain’s Quarters restaurant
3. Captain’s Quarters
4.7
Exceptional(75)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas • Pacific Beach
Booked 33 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 Mimmo's Italian Village restaurant
4. Mimmo's Italian Village
4.4
Awesome(659)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas • Little Italy
Booked 16 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
5. Pali Wine Co. Little Italy Tasting Room
4.7
Exceptional(147)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas • Little Italy
Booked 1 time 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 Basta! restaurant
6. Basta!
4.4
Awesome(59)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas • Little Italy
At Basta! in Little Italy, San Diego, the tapas-style approach to Italian-inspired cuisine is nothing short of exceptional. Every small plate is crafted with attention to detail, offering a delightful burst of flavors that diners rave about. The gnocchi and chicken and waffles are standout dishes, described as "mind-blowing" and "unlike anything else." Guests appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and attentive service, with servers who are well-versed in the menu and provide spot-on recommendations. The unique blend of tapas meets Italy creates a "fun and lively" experience that makes Basta! a must-visit for both locals and visitors alike.
A photo of Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - San Diego, CA | Scripps Ranch restaurant
7. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - San Diego, CA | Scripps Ranch
4.3
Awesome(986)
Price: Expensive
• Tapas • Scripps Ranch
Founded in Tokyo in 1996, Gyu-Kaku has become the world’s #1 Japanese BBQ brand! Thanks to our devoted fans we have reached over 700 locations worldwide. Each day, hundreds of thousands of people gather around the table-top smokeless grill, a centerpiece of our dining concept, enjoying selections of premium meats, just off the grill, and other freshly prepared foods from our kitchens, inspiring laughter, conversation, and a magical dining experience.Our authentic yakiniku (grilled barbeque) dining experience crowns you the chef. Share a variety of delicious appetizers and premium cooked meats over a flaming grill, paired with Japanese sake, frosty cold beers, or other alcoholic and non-alcoholic options of your choice. We're the perfect spot to enjoy time with friends and family, organize an office party, or to spend quality time with your significant other! Before you go, don't forget to taste our best-seller Harami Skirt Steak or Prime Kalbi Short Rib among other must-try dishes!
A photo of Zest Wine Bistro restaurant
8. Zest Wine Bistro
4.8
Exceptional(59)
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 Lobby Lounge at Fairmont Grand Del Mar restaurant
9. Lobby Lounge at Fairmont Grand Del Mar
4.3
Awesome(20)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas • Carmel Valley
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 Bar Ella restaurant
10. Bar Ella
new
4.3
Awesome(3)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas • Pacific Beach
Booked 2 times 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.

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