Top 6 Must-Visit Spots for Eating and Drinking in San Diego
San Diego’s vibrant culinary and nightlife scene offers a wide range of experiences for food lovers and cocktail fans. Whether you’re interested in exploring movie history, trying international whiskeys, savoring Italian dishes, enjoying innovative fusion cuisine, or discovering a secret tropical retreat, the city has options for all preferences. Trust me, you won’t lose that loving feeling….
Kansas City Barbeque
I feel the need, the need for…Top Gun!
Located in San Diego's Marina district, this spot is famously called the "Top Gun Bar" because it was a filming site for several iconic scenes in the movie Top Gun. The location even closed for a day to shoot the film.
If you're a Top Gun enthusiast or grew up watching the film, this place offers a unique piece of movie history, along with the enjoyment of a classic barbecue and a lively vibe. I didn’t eat there. I only had a pint since I ate earlier, but I recommend grabbing a pint or some food, as many visitors stop to take photos and leave. It was probably the second-best pint I’ve ever had—tragically, I can’t reveal the first. Still, this place is a must-visit in San Diego!
The Whiskey House
Located in the Gaslamp Quarter, this venue is famous for its Guinness World Record-holding collection of over 4,000 whiskeys from across the globe.
In addition to its vast whiskey selection, the bar serves expertly made cocktails, a wide variety of international draft beers, and an eclectic wine list, all complemented by a WHISKEY BIBLE—a large, thick book of whiskeys organized by state and country. Whiskey enthusiasts as well as bourbon and scotch lovers will find this spot a must-visit.
Even if you're not a drinker, their food is exceptional! The ambiance is also a favorite—slightly moody with walls lined with over 4,000 whiskeys and more. There are cozy places to relax, especially the section with fantastic leather couches!
False Idol
If you enjoy themed bars—note that this is solely a bar without food—as well as speakeasies, this is the place for you! I should mention that I’m not a big fan of rum, but I loved the overall vibe here! The venue is a tiki-inspired bar with a neo-lit dungeon ambiance of False Idol. At times, it might even feel like you’re in the South Pacific!
This bar is tucked away inside another restaurant, making it a fun little challenge to find. I highly recommend visiting, even if you don’t like rum, just for the experience!
If you are looking for a place to eat after your South Pacific visit, though…may I suggest the next place on the list? Indeed, it’s the place I went afterward….
Brisa Restaurant & Bar
Brisa offers a unique Latin-Japanese fusion dining experience right in Little Italy. Known for its lively lounge atmosphere and inventive cuisine, it provides guests with various flavors in a stylish setting. I love how they blend tropical elegance with coastal chill, and if you've been following me for a while, you know I love a good aesthetic!
Their menu features bold, unexpected dishes from fresh sashimi and creative ceviche to irresistible favorites like poke tacos.
Oltre Mare
I discovered a hidden gem I wasn’t expecting! After some guys from my Pacific Beach (PB) hostel invited me, I enjoyed the best Italian food I’ve had in quite a while. Famous for its authentic coastal Italian dishes and friendly atmosphere, it offers a variety of fresh seafood and handmade pastas.
One thing to remember: it's BYO wine, beer, etc., which we hadn’t realized at first, but the guys left to grab some while I waited for our meal. There's a spot just 7 minutes away where they got some wine.
Truly, this is a must-visit if you’re in PB!
Buon Appetito
Speaking of Italian! A third-place spot in Little Italy was recommended to me by a random guy at a brewery earlier in the night. That’s my favorite thing about traveling—asking locals where to go! I’m glad I went because their pasta dish was amazing! The server was really kind in helping me decide which dish and sparkling wine to get.
They have indoor and outdoor seating, and I chose outdoor because in San Diego, it’s almost always nice to sit outside! If you want to bring something back from your travels, you can visit The Market by Buon Appetito; they have pasta and everything you can imagine!
What do you think? Do any of these spots appeal to you? I also plan to return to San Diego in the coming months and am open to new places to cover. Let me know your thoughts in the comments!
