Best Southwest American Restaurants in Kearny Mesa

186 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Javier's - La Jolla restaurant

1. Javier's - La Jolla

4.6

Exceptional(3494)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • La Jolla

Booked 140 times today

Javier's in La Jolla stands out as a beacon of authentic Mexican cuisine, delighting patrons with its vibrant atmosphere and a rich heritage of elevated dishes. Located in the scenic area of San Diego, the restaurant offers a captivating ambiance, perfect for enjoying their hand-shaken margaritas and a wide selection of rare tequilas. Patrons rave about the quality of the meals, with reviews highlighting the "spectacular" carne asada and the "mouth-watering" lobster enchiladas. As one diner puts it, "Absolutely loved the food and experience." Javier's consistently provides not just a meal but a delightful culinary journey steeped in Mexican tradition, making it a must-visit location for both locals and visitors.

2. Forbidden Cove

4.5

Awesome(47)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Kearny Mesa

Booked 3 times today

Forbidden Cove in Kearny Mesa, San Diego, offers an immersive Tiki bar experience that promises not only a visual feast but also an exceptional array of handcrafted cocktails and delightful small plates. Hidden within Kilowatt Brewing, this speakeasy-style lounge is praised for its "strong and plentiful" drinks and "wonderfully designed and executed theme." Visitors revel in the adventure of entering through a secret door and are greeted by an atmosphere that one reviewer describes as having a "very cool vibe." The Lapu Lapu and Zombie are standout favorites among patrons, with many noting the authenticity and quality of each concoction. The service is consistently highlighted as "fun and attentive," making Forbidden Cove a must-visit for those seeking a unique bar and lounge experience with top-notch bottle service.

A photo of Butcher Shop Steakhouse - San Diego restaurant

3. Butcher Shop Steakhouse - San Diego

4.6

Exceptional(2564)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Kearny Mesa

Booked 16 times today

The Butcher Shop Steakhouse in Kearny Mesa, San Diego, is a treasure trove for lovers of authentic American cuisine, particularly those with a penchant for a classic steakhouse experience. Evoking the charm of a Chicago-style steakhouse, it offers a seductive ambiance with its rich dark wood paneling and comfortable leather booths. The restaurant is celebrated for its USDA Choice & Prime Midwestern steaks and chops, such as the signature Prime Rib, lauded for being "cooked to perfection" and providing a "rare bit of old world charm." With glowing reviews like, "Best steak dinner ever!" and "Amazing prime rib," it's clear that The Butcher Shop masters the art of American steakhouse cuisine, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors in San Diego.

A photo of 94th Aero Squadron - San Diego restaurant

4. 94th Aero Squadron - San Diego

4.3

Awesome(3207)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Kearny Mesa

Booked 14 times today

At the 94th Aero Squadron in Kearny Mesa, San Diego, diners are transported back in time to a World War I French farmhouse, offering an authentic and unique American dining experience that's second to none. Celebrated for its "outstanding service" and "excellent food," this restaurant has been a beloved landmark for over 40 years. With cozy stone fireplaces and views of Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport, it provides a perfect backdrop for enjoying mid-western aged beef and the freshest seafood. Reviewers rave about the "best buffet in town," with special mentions of the "bottomless Champagne Brunch" and a variety of dishes that leave guests planning their next visit. As one reviewer puts it, this place is "the fucken best place ever!" making it a must-visit for anyone seeking top-notch American cuisine in a memorable setting.

5. Boujiemana

4.8

Exceptional(110)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Serra Mesa

Booked 8 times today

Voted one of the top ten best ambiance restaurants and the #1 Mediterranean food spot in San Diego, BoujieMana is a secluded gem just a two-minute drive from all the restaurants on Convoy. With over 100 parking spots, we make dining easy and convenient. Our executive chef and team use the finest ingredients from the Mediterranean or our onsite garden to create delicious and timeless dishes that change with the seasons. Whether you're enjoying charcuterie and bubbles with friends or savoring a perfectly aged steak, BoujieMana offers an unforgettable dining experience. Visit us and discover the perfect meal in our charming, hidden location.Please take a moment to make a reservation especially around the holiday season since we often have full campus events where dine in service is limited.

A photo of Puesto Mission Valley restaurant

6. Puesto Mission Valley

4.6

Exceptional(1982)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Mission Valley

Booked 24 times today

Puesto Mission Valley in San Diego epitomizes the essence of authentic, innovative Mexican cuisine, delighting diners with its fresh, non-GMO organic ingredients and heirloom Masienda blue corn tortillas. Celebrated for its "Mexico City-inspired tacos," each dish is a burst of flavor and tradition, with "the filet mignon tacos" often hailed as a must-try. The restaurant prides itself on its vibrant ambiance and exceptional service, making every dining experience memorable. Guests rave about the "amazing food and service," noting that the coconut margarita and pozole taco are standout choices. Puesto consistently exceeds expectations, offering a culinary journey that is both genuine and extraordinary, right in the heart of Mission Valley.

A photo of Gravity Heights Mission Valley restaurant

7. Gravity Heights Mission Valley

4.7

Exceptional(192)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Mission Valley

Booked 3 times today

Gravity Heights Mission Valley in San Diego is a gem in the American cuisine scene, celebrated for pairing quality craft beers with sublime gastronomic offerings. Located in the heart of Mission Valley, this establishment stands out not just for its fine brews but also for its commitment to top-notch American dishes that receive glowing praise. Patrons frequently highlight the "delicious food" and "exceptional service," noting dishes like the chicken tikka masala pot pie as "outstanding." The ambiance, described as a "refreshingly open and light" space, perfectly complements the culinary experience, making Gravity Heights a must-visit for an authentic and enjoyable American dining adventure.

A photo of RED O Taste of Mexico - La Jolla restaurant

8. RED O Taste of Mexico - La Jolla

4.3

Awesome(2671)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • La Jolla

Booked 30 times today

Experience the vibrant heart of contemporary Mexican cuisine at RED O Taste of Mexico in La Jolla, San Diego. Known for its unique blend of prime steak and seafood with the authentic, rich flavors of Mexico, courtesy of Rick Bayless' culinary influence, RED O stands out for its high-quality, sustainably sourced ingredients and artful presentations. Guests rave about the "smoky chipotle crema & cotija mashed potatoes" and the "passion fruit butter cake," highlighting the restaurant's dedication to elevating traditional Mexican dishes. The luxurious resort-like interior and impeccable service, including a "table side tequila cart," make dining here a memorable affair. Whether it's for the innovative dishes or the specialty cocktails, RED O brings an exceptional Mexican dining experience to the heart of San Diego.

A photo of The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar- La Jolla restaurant

9. The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar- La Jolla

4.4

Awesome(1432)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • La Jolla

Booked 6 times today

Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of La Jolla, San Diego, The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar epitomizes the essence of sophisticated American dining. This gem has consistently been recognized for its exceptional service and culinary prowess, with Chef Yvon Goetz leading the kitchen. His wine country-driven menu perfectly complements an impressive wine selection of over 650 choices, meriting multiple accolades including 'Restaurant of the Year.' Patrons rave about the "outstanding service and ambiance" and the "delicious food," with favorites like the "perfectly cooked" steak and "tender" slow-braised beef short ribs. The Winery is not just a dining experience; it’s a celebration of the finest American flavors and hospitality.

10. ARLO San Diego

4.3

Awesome(738)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Mission Valley

Booked 13 times today

At ARLO San Diego, located in the vibrant Mission Valley, the steak cuisine is a testament to culinary excellence. This award-winning destination, celebrated for its "divinely decadent" Wagyu meatloaf and perfectly tender steaks, ensures every meat lover's dream is fulfilled. Guests rave about the quality, with one diner mentioning, "The steak was cooked exactly how asked, and was juicy and perfectly tender." The use of fresh, local ingredients elevates each dish, providing an authentic and memorable dining experience. Whether it's a casual meal or a large group gathering, ARLO's commitment to top-notch cuisine and its quirky, inviting atmosphere make it a must-visit for anyone craving expertly crafted steak in San Diego.

‘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

N
Noemi
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
The ambiance was great. Service was fantastic. Abraham is a very attentive, friendly server with excellent recommendations for dinner.
More info
Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Fashion ValleyPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Mission Valley
•
4.7
C
Cheryl
Los Angeles •1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
We chose Fred’s for our dog, Ziggy. The staff were more than accommodating - they are dog lovers and people persons, making us all feel at home. Great food, pure pleasure!
More info
Casa De Freds, Tacos y TequilaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Old Town
•
4.4
B
Brit
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Excellent service which is so hard to find in SD. Our server knew the menu like a dictionary, also each drink. Hands on but perfect touch base.
More info
Blanco Cocina + Cantina - CoronadoPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Coronado
•
4.7
H
Hans
San Diego •1 review
4.0
Dined on Nov 18, 2024
Always enjoyable! I'm a big fan of the Queso Fundito. Parking can be a challenge, but it is well worth it.
More info
Ortega's A Mexican BistroPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Hillcrest
•
4.5
C
Cynthia
San Diego •10 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
•
4.5

Explore OpenTable

Kearny Mesa

Mexican

Best Southwest American Restaurants in Kearny Mesa

Price

Regions

Neighborhoods

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating Options

Award-winning

Accessibility

186 restaurants available nearby

1. Javier's - La Jolla

2. Forbidden Cove

3. Butcher Shop Steakhouse - San Diego

4. 94th Aero Squadron - San Diego

5. Boujiemana

6. Puesto Mission Valley

7. Gravity Heights Mission Valley

8. RED O Taste of Mexico - La Jolla

9. The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar- La Jolla

10. ARLO San Diego

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable