Best New Restaurants in San Diego

San Diego has enjoyed a long-standing reputation as a foodie town thanks to many perennial favorite eateries serving their best efforts plate after plate. Still, the food scene here insists on forever reinventing itself. Several new restaurants have opened in San Diego recently, which has only deepened the range of tastes in the melting pot of our local dining culture. On the hunt for some fresh local flavor? Take a look at our picks for the best new restaurants in San Diego.

Swagyu Chop Shop & Burger (3 miles from the hotel)

(Photo: @Swagyuchopshop

If you’ve never experienced the buttery-rich flavor and heavily marbled texture of Wagyu beef, you simply owe it to yourself to try this world-class delicacy. Once difficult to obtain outside its native Japan, Wagyu has become somewhat more widely available as its popularity and reputation have grown. Now this new Pacific Beach spot has become a must-stop for both the curious and devotées. Keep in mind, though, that due to the hard-to-come-by nature of the top-quality ingredients, Wagyu can be as pricey as it is delicious.

966 Felspar St, San Diego, CA 92109

Breakfast and Bubbles (6.8 miles away)

(Photo: @breakfastandbubbles)

San Diego’s newest all-day breakfast and brunch spot is ready to satisfy your cravings for bubbly and Benedicts no matter what time of day you’re craving them. Looking for giant stacks of fluffy pancakes covered in butter and powdered sugar? Check. Oreo-cookie-stuffed French toast? Count on it. Even the classic steak and eggs is made to order on both sides of the equation. So assemble the squad, roll out, and prepare for the best cheat day imaginable.

3831 Park Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92103

Wolfie’s Carousel Bar (6.2 miles away)

(Photo: @k1mberly)

Upon entering Wolfie’s, the first thing you’ll notice is the eponymous merry-go-round. And while it might be tempting to assume it’s just a whimsical piece of décor, make no mistake — the still-working carousel is an antique hand-carved by master amusement-park pioneer Charles “Wolfie” Looff in 1881. Of course, the second thing you’ll notice is the inventive, French-inspired menu. So order an Oysters Rockefeller, sip some Veuve Clicquot, and go for a spin.

2401 Kettner Blvd. Suite B, San Diego, CA

Callie (7.4 miles away)

(Photo: @callierestaurant)

This new East Village eatery opened over the summer, and their fresh Mediterranean-by-way-of-California menu has made them a fast favorite. Chef Travis Sikward developed his culinary chops while working alongside celebrity chef Daniel Boulud in New York City, and he brought his bright and bold approach to flavor back to San Diego. Expect inventive dishes crafted from exclusively in-season local ingredients to populate the plates when you go.

1195 Island Ave, San Diego, CA 92101

Hoxton Manor (8.5 miles away)

(Photo: @mothchef)

San Diego’s history as a port of entry for Pacific Rim immigrants has long made us a hotbed for Asian cuisines. Among the best of the new restaurants in this category is Hoxton Manor, a blend of Southeast Asian influences from Thailand, Vietnam, and other area cultures. Highlights include a Sri Lankan coconut roti, duck confit with oyster mushrooms, and marinated hamachi with sesame and pickled cucumber, all prepared with a distinct SoCal flair.

3131 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104

Crafted Culture (21.1 miles away)

(Photo: @craftedculturesd)

When it came time for celebrity chef and “Chopped” alum Chris Carrikker to name his new venture, Crafted Culture was the obvious choice. ”Crafted” truly describes not just the care taken with the menu and beverage program, but his overall approach to the entire venture. As a constant work in progress, Crafted Culture has quickly become a locals’ favorite. When venturing out for a bite, you’ll no doubt appreciate both the duck-fat fries and smoked brisket banh mi, as well as the relaxed atmosphere.

13480 Evening Creek Dr. N #150, San Diego, CA 92128

Firefly Eatery & Bar (just steps away!)

(Photo: @fireflythedana)

Our own Firefly Eatery & Bar has been delighting guests with fantastic fare for some time. Still, we have recently undertaken a complete overhaul of the menu of our on-site dining destination, which truly makes it an all-new experience. Whether you’re visiting for our bountiful breakfast buffet, luscious lunch, or delectable dinner, you’re sure to find a favorite, as well as a few surprises. Drop in, and dig in!

Hungry for More?

No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better overall dining destination than right here in The Dana’s home of Mission Bay, San Diego. Check out the brand-new Discover Mission Bay for more recommendations on dining and attractions, and don’t miss the SPECIAL OFFERS at The Dana to save on your stay.