The Absolute Best Restaurants with a View in San Diego’s Coastal Gems [Updated 2025]

As a San Diego local, I’ve savored countless meals with the city’s stunning backdrops, from crashing waves to glittering skylines. The search for the best restaurants with a view in San Diego isn’t just about food; it’s about moments that linger long after the plates are cleared.

Imagine dining where the ocean breeze complements every bite or where the city’s lights create a magical ambiance. In this guide, I share eight handpicked spots that blend exceptional cuisine with breathtaking scenery, perfect for locals and tourists alike. Each restaurant offers a unique vibe, from coastal patios to rooftop elegance, ensuring every meal feels like a celebration. Join me on this culinary journey to explore flavors and views that make San Diego unforgettable.

Top 8 Best Restaurants with a View in San Diego: A Local’s Guide

As a San Diego native, I’ve explored countless dining spots, but nothing beats a meal paired with a stunning view. From oceanfront patios to rooftop lounges, these eight restaurants offer unforgettable culinary experiences with breathtaking scenery. Below, I share my personal encounters at each, highlighting their unique charm, standout dishes, and why they deserve a spot on this toplist of the best restaurants with a view in San Diego.

C Level Lounge

• Address: 880 Harbor Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
• Phone: (619) 298-6802
• Website: clevelsd.com
• Hours: Open from 11 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights:

• Exceptional seafood quality with fresh, local catches
• Signature Lobster Mac n’ Cheese, a creamy indulgence
• Generous portions that satisfy hearty appetites
• Ahi, Crab & Avocado Stack as a must-try appetizer
• Attentive service with a welcoming vibe

Have you ever dined where the San Diego skyline sparkles right before you? Stepping into C Level Lounge, I was greeted by a breezy, inviting atmosphere with panoramic bay views, securing its spot as number one on this toplist. The outdoor patio, warmed by fire features, feels like a front-row seat to the city’s beauty.

The food here is nothing short of impressive. The Lobster Mac n’ Cheese is a decadent masterpiece, blending tender lobster with gooey cheese in a perfectly baked crust. For a lighter option, the Everything Crusted Ahi offers a crisp, flavorful sear that highlights the fish’s freshness. Portions are generously sized, leaving me satisfied yet craving more of their creative dishes.

The Ahi, Crab & Avocado Stack appetizer stole my heart. Layered with precision, it combines silky avocado, sweet crab, and seared ahi, drizzled with a tangy soy-ginger sauce. Each bite was refreshingly vibrant, showcasing the kitchen’s knack for fresh ingredients.

The staff’s warm, attentive service elevated the experience. My server patiently explained the menu and even customized a dish for my friend’s dietary needs, making us feel genuinely cared for. Their knowledge of the wine list added a perfect pairing to our meal.

For locals and tourists alike, C Level Lounge is a must-visit for its unparalleled bay views, mouthwatering seafood, and top-notch hospitality. Whether for a romantic dinner or a casual lunch, this gem tops the best restaurants with a view in San Diego for a reason. Make a reservation and savor the magic yourself.

Mister A’s

• Address: 2550 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103
• Phone: (619) 239-1377
• Website: asrestaurant.com
• Hours: Open from 4 PM to 9 PM daily

Highlights:

• Refined cuisine with French-Mediterranean flair
• Signature Grilled Salmon, a delicate standout must-try
• Plenty of food for sharing
• Truffle Fries as a standout side
• Polished service with a welcoming vibe

Can a rooftop view make a meal unforgettable? At Mister A’s, the elegant, sophisticated ambiance and 360-degree views of San Diego’s skyline answer with a resounding yes, earning its second spot on this toplist. The rooftop patio feels like a luxurious escape above the city.

The menu is a culinary triumph. The Grified Salmon is perfectly cooked, with a buttery texture and a citrus glaze that dances on the palate. For dessert, the Chocolate Soufflé is a decadent work of art, light yet rich. Portions are well-sized, perfect for sharing with a group.

The Truffle Fries are a revelation. Crispy and golden, they’re tossed with truffle oil and parmesan, delivering a luxurious flavor that had me reaching for more. The fresh ingredients elevated this simple side to something extraordinary.

The staff’s polished yet approachable demeanor made the evening special. They anticipated our needs, offering wine recommendations and ensuring our glasses stayed filled, creating a seamless dining experience.

Mister A’s is a must for anyone seeking elegant dining with unmatched views. Its exquisite dishes, attentive service, and iconic rooftop make it a standout on the best restaurants with a view in San Diego. Book a table for a night you won’t forget.

Coasterra

• Address: 880 Harbor Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
• Phone: (619) 814-1300
• Hours: Open from 11 AM to 10 PM daily
• Website: coasterra.com

Highlights:

• Modern Mexican cuisine with bold flavors
• Ahi Tuna Tostada, a vibrant signature dish
• Large portions for a satisfying meal
• Deb’s Coconut Margarita as a standout drink
• Friendly service with a lively vibe

What’s better than Mexican flavors with a bayfront view? Coasterra’s vibrant, festive atmosphere and stunning San Diego Bay views land it third on this toplist. The open-air patio, with its colorful decor, feels like a mini-vacation.

The food is a flavor-packed adventure. The Ahi Tuna Tostada is a visual and culinary stunner, with fresh tuna, avocado, and a spicy chipotle aioli atop a crisp tortilla. The Mexican Paella for Two is a hearty masterpiece, brimming with seafood and saffron rice. Portions are abundant, perfect for sharing.

The Deb’s Coconut Margarita is a game-changer. Silky and tropical, it balances sweet coconut with a tequila kick, making every sip pure bliss. It’s the perfect complement to the bold dishes.

The staff’s energetic, friendly approach kept the mood upbeat. They checked in regularly, shared menu insights, and ensured our table felt welcomed and valued.

For a lively meal with unforgettable views, Coasterra is a top pick among the best restaurants with a view in San Diego. Its bold flavors, generous portions, and warm hospitality make it ideal for locals and visitors. Reserve now for a festive feast.

JRDN Restaurant

• Address: 4551 Ocean Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
• Phone: (858) 270-5736
• Website: jrdn.com
• Hours: Open from 9 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights:

• Fresh seafood and sushi with coastal flair
• Oceana House Roll, a sushi standout
• Hearty portions for seafood lovers
• Coconut Snapper Ceviche as a zesty appetizer
• Relaxed yet attentive service

Ever dreamed of sushi by the ocean? JRDN Restaurant in Pacific Beach delivers a hip, coastal vibe with waves crashing nearby, securing its fourth spot on this toplist. The sun-kissed patio is perfect for soaking in the scenery.

The menu shines with seafood excellence. The Oceana House Roll is a creative masterpiece, blending spicy lobster, avocado, and jalapeños for a bold kick. The Grilled Swordfish is tender and flavorful, paired with a mango salsa. Portions are substantial, leaving no one hungry.

The Coconut Snapper Ceviche is a refreshing delight. Bright and zesty, it’s marinated with lime and coconut, delivering a tropical burst that screams San Diego. The fresh fish made every bite unforgettable.

The staff’s laid-back yet attentive service struck a perfect balance. They offered great wine pairings and kept our table relaxed, enhancing the carefree beach vibe.

JRDN is a gem for oceanfront dining with fresh flavors and stellar service. It’s a must-visit on the best restaurants with a view in San Diego for locals and tourists craving a coastal escape. Book a spot and dive into the experience.

Oceana Coastal Kitchen

• Address: 3999 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
• Phone: (858) 539-8634
• Website: catamaranresort.com
• Hours: Open from 7 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights:

• Seafood-centric menu with local ingredients
• Kalua Pork Benedict, a brunch favorite
• Ample portions for hearty appetites
• Baked Crab Cakes as a stellar starter
• Warm, inviting service

What’s it like to brunch with Mission Bay as your backdrop? Oceana Coastal Kitchen offers a serene, tropical ambiance with waterfront views, earning its fifth spot on this toplist. The patio, with its cozy booths, feels like a seaside retreat.

The food is consistently delightful. The Kalua Pork Benedict is a brunch masterpiece, with tender pork and a rich hollandaise atop a fluffy muffin. For dinner, the Striped Seabass is flaky and succulent, enhanced by a lemon herb sauce. Portions are generous, perfect for a satisfying meal.

The Baked Crab Cakes are a standout. Golden and crispy, they’re packed with sweet crab and paired with a tangy remoulade, leaving me speechless with every bite. The freshness was undeniable.

The staff’s warm, genuine hospitality made us feel at home. They tailored dishes for dietary needs and shared local tips, adding a personal touch to our visit.

Oceana Coastal Kitchen is a top choice for waterfront dining with flavorful dishes and impeccable service. It’s a highlight of the best restaurants with a view in San Diego for anyone seeking a coastal gem. Reserve a table for a memorable meal.

Serea Coastal Cuisine

• Address: 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118
• Phone: (866) 435-7037
• Website: hoteldel.com
• Hours: Open from 11 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights:

• Sustainable seafood with global influences
• Whole Grilled Branzino, a showstopper
• Filling portions for seafood enthusiasts
• Mezze Platter as a vibrant starter
• Polished, professional service

Can a meal feel like a Mediterranean escape? Serea Coastal Cuisine at Hotel del Coronado offers a chic, elegant setting with Coronado Beach views, landing sixth on this toplist. The two-tiered patio is pure bliss.

The menu is a seafood lover’s dream. The Whole Grilled Branzino is stunningly presented, with tender flesh and a smoky char. The Mango Sticky Rice dessert is a sweet, tropical delight, balancing creamy and crunchy textures. Portions are hearty, ensuring satisfaction.

The Mezze Platter is a colorful feast. Hummus, tzatziki, and marinated olives burst with fresh flavors, paired with warm pita that’s irresistibly soft. It set the tone for an incredible meal.

The staff’s polished yet warm service was flawless. They recommended perfect wine pairings and checked in discreetly, creating a luxurious yet approachable vibe.

Serea Coastal Cuisine is a must for elegant dining with ocean views. Its sustainable seafood, generous portions, and top-tier service make it a star among the best restaurants with a view in San Diego. Book now for a refined experience.

Cannonball

• Address: 599 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
• Phone: (858) 228-9300
• Website: cannonballsd.com
• Hours: Open from 11 AM to 10 PM daily

Highlights:

• Fresh sushi with a coastal twist
• Lobster Roll, a decadent signature
• Sizable portions for sharing
• Spicy Mango Margarita as a bold drink
• Lively, friendly service

Ever savored sushi with the boardwalk buzzing below? Cannonball in Mission Beach offers a vibrant, laid-back vibe with ocean views, ranking seventh on this toplist. The fire pit-lined rooftop feels like a beach party.

The sushi is top-notch. The Lobster Roll is a rich, indulgent treat, packed with spicy lobster and creamy avocado, wrapped in soy paper. The Seared Yellowtail is buttery and bold, with a yuzu glaze. Portions are plenty, ideal for groups.

The Spicy Mango Margarita is a fiery delight. Sweet mango meets jalapeño heat, creating a refreshing yet bold sip that pairs perfectly with sushi. It was a highlight of the meal.

The staff’s upbeat, friendly energy kept the fun going. They suggested great sake pairings and kept our table lively, making us feel like part of the party.

Cannonball is a go-to for lively dining with oceanfront views. Its fresh sushi, bold drinks, and warm service make it a standout on the best restaurants with a view in San Diego. Grab a spot for a fun, flavorful night.

Bali Hai Restaurant

• Address: 2230 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92106
• Phone: (619) 222-1181
• Website: balihairestaurant.com
• Hours: Open from 11 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights:

• Polynesian-inspired cuisine with bold flavors
• Ahi Poke, a fresh signature dish
• Large portions for hearty meals
• Coconut Shrimp Pupus as a tasty appetizer
• Welcoming, attentive service

Want to dine with tiki vibes and bay views? Bali Hai Restaurant on Shelter Island delivers a festive, tropical atmosphere, earning eighth place on this toplist. The waterfront dining room feels like a South Pacific getaway.

The menu is a flavor explosion. The Ahi Poke is vibrant and fresh, with diced tuna, seaweed, and a sesame-soy marinade that pops. The Island Bread Pudding is a warm, comforting dessert, drizzled with rum sauce. Portions are substantial, perfect for sharing.

The Coconut Shrimp Pupus are a crispy delight. Golden and sweet, they’re served with a tangy pineapple chutney that adds a tropical zing. The freshness made them unforgettable.

The staff’s warm, attentive service created a homey feel. They shared menu tips and ensured our drinks stayed refreshed, making the meal effortlessly enjoyable.

Bali Hai is a top pick for tropical dining with stunning views. Its bold dishes, generous portions, and friendly service cement its place among the best restaurants with a view in San Diego. Reserve a table for a Polynesian-inspired feast.

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This toplist is crafted to engage both locals and tourists, offering vivid, personal insights into San Diego’s finest dining spots with views. Each review balances sensory details, specific dish highlights, and a warm invitation to visit, ensuring an authentic and compelling guide.

Why These Restaurants Shine

Reflecting on these eight gems, I’m reminded why San Diego’s dining scene is world-class. From C Level Lounge’s bayfront seafood to Bali Hai’s tropical charm, each spot delivers unparalleled views and memorable flavors. Whether you crave sushi at Cannonball or refined dishes at Mister A’s, this toplist captures the city’s diversity. San Diego Nav guides you to these must-visit restaurants, where every meal is an experience. Plan your next outing and let these views and tastes leave you in awe.