San Diego’s stunning coastal beauty offers the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience. From oceanfront restaurants to elevated dining spots with panoramic views, San Diego boasts a variety of dining options that not only offer delicious food but also breathtaking vistas.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy a sunset, watch the waves crash along the shore, or take in the city skyline, these restaurants provide the perfect ambiance to enhance any meal.
Or planning a romantic evening, celebrating a special occasion, or just want to enjoy the view while indulging in delicious food, these spots will not disappoint.
Here’s our list of the best restaurants with views in San Diego.
Mister A’s
$$$$ | Bankers Hill
2550 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103
Mister A’s offers breathtaking panoramic views of San Diego, including the downtown skyline and bay. This upscale, sophisticated restaurant is known for its elegant ambiance and contemporary American cuisine.
The California Lamb and the Lobster Risotto are popular dishes, combining rich flavors with a fine-dining experience. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer a stunning backdrop, making Mister A’s an excellent choice for a memorable evening out.
George’s at the Cove
$$$$ | La Jolla
1250 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037
George’s at the Cove offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and is a local favorite for upscale seafood and Californian cuisine. With its modern design and welcoming atmosphere, it’s perfect for a leisurely lunch or a special dinner.
The Lobster Tacos and the Roasted Fish are top dishes, making use of the freshest ingredients. Whether dining on the terrace or inside with large windows, George’s provides a perfect vantage point of La Jolla Cove.
Island Prime / Coasterra
$$$$ | Harbor Island
880 Harbor Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Located on Harbor Island, Island Prime and its sister restaurant, Coasterra, offer spectacular views of San Diego Bay, downtown, and Coronado Island. The chic ambiance and waterfront setting make this the perfect spot for dining with a view.
The Filet Mignon and the Chilean Sea Bass are popular dishes, offering rich flavors with a fine-dining touch. The sunset views and the backdrop of passing yachts make Island Prime a great choice for an upscale date night.
Poseidon / Jake’s
$$$ | Del Mar
1670 Coast Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014
Poseidon and Jake’s, located on the Del Mar coastline, offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and a relaxed beach atmosphere. Both restaurants serve fresh seafood and California cuisine, making them ideal for a laid-back meal with a view.
The Lobster Roll and Fish Tacos are favorites here, offering fresh and flavorful options. The open-air dining space allows guests to enjoy the ocean breeze while savoring their meals.
JRDN Restaurant
$$$$ | Pacific Beach
723 Felspar St, San Diego, CA 92109
JRDN Restaurant at Tower23 is known for its modern design and incredible views of Pacific Beach and the Pacific Ocean. With a contemporary menu focused on fresh seafood and California-inspired dishes, it’s perfect for a vibrant date or special occasion.
The Blackened Ahi and the Grilled Sea Bass are top picks, offering high-quality ingredients and innovative flavors. The outdoor patio, combined with the oceanfront view, creates a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere.
Marine Room
$$$$ | La Jolla
2000 Spindrift Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037
The Marine Room offers one of the most unique dining experiences in San Diego, with waves crashing against the windows at high tide. This fine-dining restaurant specializes in seafood and coastal cuisine, with stunning oceanfront views.
The Lobster Bisque and the Roasted Chilean Sea Bass are top dishes, showcasing exceptional flavors and creativity. The dramatic ocean views create an unforgettable atmosphere, making it an excellent spot for a special celebration.
Bali Hai
$$$ | Shelter Island
2230 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92106
Bali Hai is a Polynesian-inspired restaurant offering panoramic views of the San Diego Bay and downtown skyline. Known for its tropical cocktails and island-inspired cuisine, Bali Hai provides a unique and exotic dining experience.
The Ahi Poke and the Coconut Shrimp are popular choices, offering fresh and flavorful dishes. The restaurant’s mid-century vibe and sunset views make it an excellent choice for a relaxed and romantic date.
Cannonball
$$$ | Mission Beach
3105 Ocean Front Walk, San Diego, CA 92109
Cannonball is located right on the beach in Mission Beach, offering stunning ocean views and a laid-back atmosphere. The modern menu features sushi, cocktails, and small plates, making it a perfect spot for casual dining with a view.
The Sushi Rolls and the Tuna Poke are favorites, combining fresh ingredients with creative presentations. The beachside patio offers a relaxed setting for enjoying a meal while taking in the breathtaking ocean views.
The Sunset Lounge
$$$ | La Jolla
4240 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA 92037
The Sunset Lounge offers amazing sunset views over the Pacific Ocean, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed, romantic evening. This stylish spot serves elevated American cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
The Grilled Octopus and the Truffle Fries are highlights of the menu, offering a refined yet approachable dining experience. The rooftop seating area allows guests to enjoy both stunning views and an upscale atmosphere.
C Level Lounge
$$$ | Harbor Island
525 E Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
C Level Lounge is a trendy, upscale bar and restaurant located on the waterfront, offering fantastic views of San Diego Bay, the downtown skyline, and Coronado Island. With a chic and contemporary atmosphere, it’s a great place for a special night out or an afternoon of cocktails and dining.
The Miso-Glazed Chilean Sea Bass and the Filet Mignon are popular choices, combining sophisticated flavors with the freshest ingredients. The expansive outdoor seating area provides the perfect spot to enjoy the incredible scenery while dining.
The Brigantine
$$-$$$ | Shelter Island
2730 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92106
The Brigantine offers beautiful views of San Diego Bay and the downtown skyline, with a relaxed ambiance perfect for enjoying seafood and cocktails. This family-friendly seafood restaurant is known for its fresh fish, oysters, and clam chowder.
The Lobster and Crab Roll and the Grilled Fish Tacos are favorites, offering casual yet delicious options. The outdoor patio provides a cozy setting for enjoying the waterfront views while dining on fresh seafood.
The Pearl Hotel
$$$ | Point Loma
1410 Rosecrans St, San Diego, CA 92106
The Pearl Hotel offers a retro-chic vibe with an iconic poolside lounge and a fantastic rooftop space with panoramic views of the bay and city skyline. The intimate ambiance, paired with delicious food and signature cocktails, makes it a great choice for a trendy date night.
The Pearl Burger and the Shrimp Tacos are popular dishes here, combining classic comfort food with high-quality ingredients. The relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views make it a fun and stylish dining option.
Café 21 Gaslamp
$$-$$$ | Gaslamp Quarter
802 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Café 21 Gaslamp offers a farm-to-table dining experience with an inviting atmosphere and an emphasis on local, sustainable ingredients. Located in the Gaslamp Quarter, this restaurant also boasts a rooftop patio with stunning views of the city and beyond.
The Roasted Duck and the Grilled Filet Mignon are top dishes, featuring fresh and flavorful ingredients. The urban setting combined with the rooftop view makes it an ideal location for enjoying a delicious meal with a fantastic view.
Firenze
$$$ | La Jolla
6156 Avenida Cresta, San Diego, CA 92037
Firenze is a hidden gem in La Jolla offering stunning ocean views and a cozy, intimate atmosphere. This Italian restaurant features rustic cuisine with a focus on house-made pasta, fresh seafood, and traditional Italian flavors.
The Lobster Ravioli and the Osso Buco are standout dishes, offering a rich culinary experience. The scenic ocean views from the patio are perfect for a relaxed and romantic dining experience.
Harbor House
$$-$$$ | Seaport Village
831 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Harbor House is a classic seafood spot located in Seaport Village, with amazing views of the bay, Coronado Island, and downtown San Diego. The casual yet elegant ambiance and fresh seafood make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.
The Clam Chowder and the Fish and Chips are crowd-pleasers, featuring fresh, local ingredients. The outdoor seating area offers a relaxed environment to enjoy the stunning views while savoring seafood dishes.
