The Absolute Best Valentine's Restaurants San Diego: Romantic Gems [Updated 2025]

1. A.R. Valentien

Basic Information

• Address: 11480 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037
• Phone: (858) 777-6635
• Website: www.lodgetorreypines.com
• Hours: Open from 8 AM to 9:30 PM daily

Highlights

• Food Quality: Exceptional regional cuisine with fresh, local ingredients.
• Signature Dish: Pan-roasted rack of lamb, a savory masterpiece.
• Portion Size: Generous, satisfying servings perfect for sharing.
• Side Dish: Smoked beet soup, rich and vibrant.
• Service: Attentive and knowledgeable, elevating the dining experience.

Review

What makes a Valentine’s Day dinner truly unforgettable? Stepping into A.R. Valentien, ranked first on our toplist of the best Valentine’s restaurants in San Diego, feels like entering an elegant, timbered haven overlooking Torrey Pines Golf Course. The warm, craftsman-style ambiance, with stained-glass lanterns and intimate booths, sets a romantic tone from the moment you arrive.

The culinary offerings here are nothing short of spectacular. The pan-roasted rack of lamb, tender and infused with rosemary, is a savory triumph, while the butter-poached lobster tail melts in your mouth with delicate sweetness. Each dish is a testament to Chef Kelli Crosson’s creativity, with generous portions that leave you satisfied yet craving more. The balance of flavors feels like a love letter to San Diego’s bounty, making every bite memorable.

Among the standout sides, the smoked beet soup steals the show. Its velvety texture and earthy depth, accented by a hint of citrus, create a dish that’s both comforting and refined. Prepared with impeccably fresh ingredients, it’s a bowl that sparks joy with every spoonful, leaving you in awe of its complexity.

The service at A.R. Valentien is equally remarkable. The staff, with their warm smiles and deep menu knowledge, anticipate your needs effortlessly. From recommending wine pairings to accommodating special requests, they create a seamless, heartfelt experience that feels personal and luxurious, perfect for a romantic evening.

For couples seeking a Valentine’s Day to cherish, A.R. Valentien is a must-visit. Its exquisite cuisine, generous portions, and impeccable service make it a standout on this toplist of the best restaurants in San Diego for Valentine’s Day. Book your table and indulge in a night of romance and flavor.

2. The Marine Room

Basic Information

• Address: 2000 Spindrift Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037
• Phone: (858) 459-7222
• Website: www.marineroom.com
• Hours: Open from 4 PM to 9 PM daily

Highlights

• Food Quality: High-end seafood with innovative twists.
• Signature Dish: Roasted Mary’s Farm duck, bold and succulent.
• Portion Size: Ample, ideal for a special occasion.
• Side Dish: Mayan kabocha squash soup, creamy and aromatic.
• Service: Professional and warm, ensuring a memorable night.

Review

Can a restaurant make you fall in love with both the food and the view? The Marine Room, second on our toplist of the best Valentine’s restaurants in San Diego, delivers exactly that with its mesmerizing oceanfront setting. The elegant dining room, with waves crashing just beyond the windows, creates a captivating and romantic atmosphere that’s hard to beat.

The menu is a celebration of seafood and creativity. The roasted Mary’s Farm duck, with its crispy skin and juicy interior, pairs beautifully with a tart cherry glaze, while the wild prawn and diver scallops offer a delicate, oceanic delight. Portions are substantial, ensuring you and your Valentine leave fully satisfied. Each dish feels like a carefully crafted story, blending tradition with innovation.

The Mayan kabocha squash soup is a side dish that demands attention. Its silky texture and warm spices, kissed with a hint of coconut, make it a comforting yet sophisticated addition to the meal. Made with the freshest ingredients, it’s a bowl that warms the heart and soul, perfect for a chilly February evening.

Service here is impeccable, with staff who exude professionalism and genuine care. Their attentiveness, from refilling wine glasses to explaining the menu’s nuances, elevates the experience, making you feel like royalty. They handle every detail with grace, ensuring your night feels effortless and special.

The Marine Room is a dream destination for Valentine’s Day. Its stunning views, inventive cuisine, and stellar service make it a top pick on our list of the best restaurants in San Diego for Valentine’s Day. Reserve early to secure a table and create a memory that lasts.

3. Mister A’s

Basic Information

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

Highlights

• Food Quality: Sophisticated American dishes with bold flavors.
• Signature Dish: Prime Chateaubriand, tender and luxurious.
• Portion Size: Plentiful, designed for indulgence.
• Side Dish: Black truffle sweet potato agnolotti, decadent and rich.
• Service: Polished and engaging, enhancing the evening.

Review

Where can you dine with a view that rivals the food? Mister A’s, third on our toplist of the best Valentine’s restaurants in San Diego, offers a dazzling skyline view paired with an upscale, intimate ambiance. The sleek, modern dining room, with its floor-to-ceiling windows, feels like a romantic escape above the city.

The menu is a showcase of refined American cuisine. The prime Chateaubriand, carved tableside, is a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece, while the black truffle sweet potato agnolotti delivers a luxurious, earthy sweetness. Portions are generous, ensuring a satisfying experience that feels worth every penny. The creativity in each dish transforms dinner into an event.

A standout side is the black truffle sweet potato agnolotti, a dish that’s as indulgent as it sounds. The pasta, perfectly cooked, envelops a creamy filling that bursts with truffle aroma, leaving you savoring every bite. Fresh ingredients elevate this side into something truly extraordinary.

The service at Mister A’s is a highlight, with staff who are both polished and personable. They guide you through the extensive wine list with ease and ensure every request is met with a smile, making the evening feel seamless and special. Their enthusiasm for the menu is contagious, adding to the romance.

For a Valentine’s Day filled with glamour and flavor, Mister A’s is unbeatable. Its breathtaking views, exquisite dishes, and top-tier service make it a star on our toplist of the best restaurants in San Diego for Valentine’s Day. Book now for a night of elegance.

4. Juniper and Ivy

Basic Information

• Address: 2228 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
• Phone: (619) 269-9036
• Website: www.juniperandivy.com
• Hours: Open from 5 PM to 10 PM daily

Highlights

• Food Quality: Inventive dishes with local, seasonal ingredients.
• Signature Dish: Petit filet mignon, perfectly seared.
• Portion Size: Ample, ideal for sharing with your Valentine.
• Side Dish: White asparagus soup, delicate and flavorful.
• Service: Friendly and attentive, creating a warm vibe.

Review

What’s the recipe for a perfect Valentine’s Day dinner? Juniper and Ivy, fourth on our toplist of the best Valentine’s restaurants in San Diego, answers with its vibrant, plant-filled dining room and innovative cuisine. The modern, open space feels inviting yet chic, setting the stage for a romantic evening.

The food here is a culinary adventure. The petit filet mignon, seared to perfection, pairs beautifully with a red wine reduction, while the Pacific black cod with saffron crushed potatoes offers a lighter, equally stunning option. Portions are hearty, leaving you and your partner content and impressed. Each dish feels like a bold, flavorful journey.

The white asparagus soup is a side that shines. Its creamy texture and subtle sweetness, enhanced by a touch of preserved lemon, make it a refreshing complement to the richer mains. Crafted with pristine ingredients, it’s a dish that surprises and delights with every spoonful.

Service at Juniper and Ivy is warm and engaging. The staff’s enthusiasm for the menu and their quick responses to requests create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. They’re happy to share insights about the dishes, making your experience feel personal and memorable.

Juniper and Ivy is a top choice for couples craving creativity and quality. Its inventive menu, generous portions, and stellar service make it a standout on our toplist of the best restaurants in San Diego for Valentine’s Day. Reserve your spot for a night of culinary magic.

5. Animae

Basic Information

• Address: 969 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101
• Phone: (619) 432-1225
• Website: www.animaesd.com
• Hours: Open from 5 PM to 10 PM daily

Highlights

• Food Quality: Bold Asian fusion with artistic presentation.
• Signature Dish: Soy-braised short rib, rich and tender.
• Portion Size: Substantial, perfect for a romantic feast.
• Side Dish: Fried oysters, crispy and flavorful.
• Service: Charismatic and attentive, enhancing the mood.

Review

Can a restaurant make your Valentine’s Day feel like a scene from a movie? Animae, fifth on our toplist of the best Valentine’s restaurants in San Diego, does just that with its sultry, art-deco dining room. The velvet curtains and retro booths create a glamorous, intimate vibe that’s perfect for romance.

The menu is a thrilling blend of Asian flavors. The soy-braised short rib, fall-apart tender, is a savory delight, while the halibut cha ca with dill and turmeric offers a vibrant, aromatic twist. Portions are generous, ensuring a satisfying meal that feels indulgent. Every dish is a visual and flavorful masterpiece.

The fried oysters, served with Japanese tartare sauce, are a standout side. Their crispy exterior gives way to a plump, juicy center, with the sauce adding a zesty kick. Made with the freshest seafood, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that leaves you wanting more.

The service at Animae is exceptional, with staff who bring charisma and care to every interaction. Their recommendations are spot-on, and their attentiveness ensures a flawless evening. They create a lively yet intimate atmosphere, perfect for a special night out.

Animae is a must for couples seeking bold flavors and a chic setting. Its creative cuisine, ample portions, and dynamic service make it a gem on our toplist of the best restaurants in San Diego for Valentine’s Day. Book early for an unforgettable evening.

6. Herb & Wood

Basic Information

• Address: 2210 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
• Phone: (619) 955-8495
• Website: www.herbandwood.com
• Hours: Open from 5 PM to 9:30 PM daily

Highlights

• Food Quality: Rustic yet refined California cuisine.
• Signature Dish: Filet mignon with brie cream, decadent and tender.
• Portion Size: Plentiful, ideal for a celebratory meal.
• Side Dish: Roasted oysters, smoky and succulent.
• Service: Welcoming and professional, ensuring comfort.

Review

What’s the secret to a Valentine’s Day dinner that lingers in your memory? Herb & Wood, sixth on our toplist of the best Valentine’s restaurants in San Diego, delivers with its rustic-chic dining room and soulful cuisine. The exposed brick and soft lighting create a cozy, romantic atmosphere that feels just right.

The food is a love letter to California’s bounty. The filet mignon, topped with a luscious brie cream, is melt-in-your-mouth perfection, while the smoked salmon tartlets offer a lighter, equally delightful option. Portions are substantial, ensuring you leave fulfilled. Each dish is crafted with care, showcasing bold yet balanced flavors.

The roasted oysters are a side that steals the spotlight. Their smoky, buttery richness, enhanced by a touch of bone marrow, makes them an indulgent treat. Sourced fresh, they’re prepared with precision, delivering a taste that’s both comforting and luxurious.

Service at Herb & Wood is warm and polished. The staff’s genuine hospitality and attention to detail, from checking on your preferences to offering pairing suggestions, make the evening feel special. They create a relaxed yet upscale vibe that’s perfect for couples.

Herb & Wood is a top pick for a Valentine’s Day filled with warmth and flavor. Its refined dishes, generous portions, and attentive service make it a standout on our toplist of the best restaurants in San Diego for Valentine’s Day. Reserve now for a night to savor.

7. Marisi

Basic Information

• Address: 1044 Wall St, La Jolla, CA 92037
• Phone: (858) 401-6754
• Website: www.marisilajolla.com
• Hours: Open from 5 PM to 10 PM daily

Highlights

• Food Quality: Italian-inspired dishes with coastal flair.
• Signature Dish: King crab carbonara, rich and indulgent.
• Portion Size: Generous, perfect for sharing.
• Side Dish: Steamed saffron mussels, aromatic and tender.
• Service: Attentive and charming, enhancing the experience.

Review

Where can you find Italian romance in San Diego? Marisi, seventh on our toplist of the best Valentine’s restaurants in San Diego, transports you to the Amalfi Coast with its airy, elegant dining room. The soft lighting and coastal decor create a dreamy, intimate setting for a Valentine’s Day escape.

The menu is a celebration of Italian flavors with a California twist. The king crab carbonara, with its creamy sauce and delicate crab, is a decadent delight, while the grilled halibut with lemon herb sauce offers a lighter, refreshing option. Portions are ample, ensuring a satisfying and romantic meal. Each dish feels like a work of art.

The steamed saffron mussels are a standout side. Their tender texture and fragrant broth, infused with saffron and white wine, make them a flavorful addition. Prepared with the freshest ingredients, they’re a dish that delights the senses and elevates the meal.

Service at Marisi is impeccable, with staff who are both charming and attentive. They anticipate your needs, offer thoughtful recommendations, and create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Their passion for the menu shines through, making your evening feel personal and memorable.

Marisi is a perfect choice for a Valentine’s Day filled with romance and flavor. Its exquisite dishes, generous portions, and stellar service make it a highlight on our toplist of the best restaurants in San Diego for Valentine’s Day. Book your table for a coastal Italian experience.

8. Valentina

Basic Information

• Address: 810 N Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
• Phone: (760) 943-6686
• Website: www.valentinaencinitas.com
• Hours: Open from 4 PM to 9 PM daily

Highlights

• Food Quality: Mediterranean-inspired with fresh, bold flavors.
• Signature Dish: Seabass in lemon butter sauce, light and flavorful.
• Portion Size: Plentiful, ideal for a romantic dinner.
• Side Dish: Patatas bravas, crispy and spicy.
• Service: Warm and engaging, creating a cozy vibe.

Review

Can a cozy bistro make your Valentine’s Day unforgettable? Valentina, eighth on our toplist of the best Valentine’s restaurants in San Diego, answers with its charming, candlelit dining room in Encinitas. The melting candles and intimate setting create a warm, European-inspired ambiance that’s perfect for romance.

The cuisine is a delightful fusion of Mediterranean and California flavors. The seabass in lemon butter sauce, flaky and bright, is a standout, while the pork schnitzel with caper sauce offers a hearty, comforting option. Portions are generous, ensuring a satisfying meal that leaves you content. Each dish bursts with creativity and freshness.

The patatas bravas are a side that packs a punch. These crispy potatoes, drizzled with a spicy aioli, are perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor. Made with fresh ingredients, they’re a lively addition that complements the mains and keeps you reaching for more.

Service at Valentina is heartfelt and attentive. The staff, led by servers like Kimmy, offer personalized recommendations and ensure every detail is perfect. Their warmth and enthusiasm create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.

Valentina is a gem for couples seeking a relaxed yet romantic Valentine’s Day. Its vibrant dishes, ample portions, and exceptional service make it a top pick on our toplist of the best restaurants in San Diego for Valentine’s Day. Reserve now for a night of Mediterranean magic.

9. Wormwood

Basic Information

• Address: 4677 30th St, San Diego, CA 92116
• Phone: (619) 546-5257
• Website: www.wormwoodsd.com
• Hours: Open from 4:30 PM to 10:30 PM daily

Highlights

• Food Quality: French-inspired with a focus on absinthe.
• Signature Dish: Sole meunière, delicate and buttery.
• Portion Size: Ample, perfect for a special evening.
• Side Dish: Champagne and caviar oysters, luxurious and fresh.
• Service: Knowledgeable and charismatic, elevating the night.

Review

What’s the key to a Valentine’s Day dinner with a touch of mystery? Wormwood, ninth on our toplist of the best Valentine’s restaurants in San Diego, offers a Belle Epoque-inspired experience in University Heights. The vintage decor and absinthe fountains create an enchanting, romantic atmosphere that feels like a step back in time.

The menu is a French-inspired delight. The sole meunière, with its buttery, lemony sauce, is a delicate masterpiece, while the Baja striped bass with herb crust offers a bold, flavorful alternative. Portions are substantial, ensuring a fulfilling meal that feels indulgent. Each dish is crafted with precision and flair.

The Champagne and caviar oysters are a side that dazzles. Served fresh with a sparkling mignonette, they’re a luxurious treat that bursts with oceanic flavor. The quality of the ingredients shines through, making this dish a highlight of the evening.

Service at Wormwood is exceptional, with staff who are both knowledgeable and engaging. Their expertise in absinthe and the menu adds a unique touch, while their attentiveness ensures a seamless experience. They create a lively yet intimate vibe that’s perfect for couples.

Wormwood is a must-visit for a Valentine’s Day with a twist. Its creative cuisine, generous portions, and captivating service make it a standout on our toplist of the best restaurants in San Diego for Valentine’s Day. Book your table for a night of French allure.

10. Eddie V’s Prime Seafood

Basic Information

• Address: 1270 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037
• Phone: (858) 459-5500
• Website: www.eddiev.com
• Hours: Open from 4 PM to 9 PM daily

Highlights

• Food Quality: Premium seafood and steaks with elegant presentation.
• Signature Dish: Maine lobster tacos, fresh and flavorful.
• Portion Size: Generous, ideal for a luxurious meal.
• Side Dish: Truffle mac and cheese, creamy and indulgent.
• Service: Polished and attentive, ensuring a special night.

Review

Where can you find seafood that feels like a celebration? Eddie V’s Prime Seafood, tenth on our toplist of the best Valentine’s restaurants in San Diego, delivers with its sophisticated, nautical-inspired dining room in La Jolla. The plush seating and soft lighting create a luxurious, romantic ambiance that’s perfect for Valentine’s Day.

The menu is a seafood lover’s dream. The Maine lobster tacos, bursting with fresh lobster and avocado, are a vibrant, flavorful delight, while the seared filet mignon offers a rich, savory alternative. Portions are ample, ensuring a satisfying and indulgent experience. Each dish is presented with elegance and care.

The truffle mac and cheese is a side that elevates comfort food to new heights. Its creamy, cheesy goodness, infused with earthy truffle, is cooked to perfection, creating a dish that’s both decadent and unforgettable. Fresh ingredients make every bite a pleasure.

Service at Eddie V’s is flawless, with staff who are polished and genuinely attentive. They anticipate your needs, offer expert wine pairings, and create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Their professionalism adds a touch of class to the evening, making it feel truly special.

Eddie V’s is a top choice for a Valentine’s Day filled with luxury and flavor. Its exquisite seafood, generous portions, and impeccable service make it a highlight on our toplist of the best restaurants in San Diego for Valentine’s Day. Reserve your table for a night of coastal elegance