San Diego Waterfront Dining: Top Restaurants With the Best Views

Dining out tops many must-do lists, and San Diego’s beachfront restaurants welcome foodies to try delicious dishes paired with incredible views. In addition to picturesque view, the city has a diverse selection with a mix of hole-in-the-wall gems and urban and fine-dining spots. So if dinner overlooking the water sounds tempting, check out the San Diego waterfront dining overview.

San Diego Waterfront Dining: Top Restaurants With Views

Brockton Villa

Brockton Villa is an old beach cottage turned fine dining restaurant, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. For more than 20 years, the restaurant has celebrated coastal dining and views of La Jolla Cove. For lunch, try the crab cakes or a signature salad, including chipotle lime shrimp and spicy Asian chicken. A local dinner favorite is Brockton Villa cioppino, a seafood and potato dish with chili crème fraiche.

Chandler’s

Enjoy local freshness at Chandler’s, which sources all ingredients from SoCal producers. This coastal restaurant is known for a laid-back vibe and Pacific Ocean views. The bar and lounge offers live music on the weekends, and the menu blends international flavors with American favorites. Options range from portobello mushroom gyros (lunch) to Alaskan king salmon and crab crusted swordfish (dinner).

Cusp

Located on the 11th floor of Hotel La Jolla, Cusp features panoramic ocean views, craft cocktails and a pool-side bar. Whether enjoying a drink or meal, this hiatus bar is popular among locals and travelers. Menus offer Mediterranean-inspired dishes, and dinner options include bolognese pappardelle, pan seared sea bass and sweet basil dumplings. Cusp is open for all three meals and hosts special daily events.

Island Prime

Island Prime, a top-rated steakhouse, overlooks San Diego’s skyline and Coronado, a nearby resort city. The award-winning spot is open for dinner, and special chef creations range from char-grilled akaushi ribeye to macadamia crusted seabass. Pair the meal with a glass of wine from an extensive list, or try a new cocktail. Attached to Island Prime is C Level, which opens for lunch and hosts regular happy hours.

Jake’s – Del Mar

At Jake’s Del Mar, floor to ceiling windows show Del Mar – a seaside village in San Diego area. This popular spot has earned a slew of awards for food, views, ambiance, and more by TripAdvisor and Open Table. The bar bistro opens seven days a week, and Jake’s serves lunch and Sunday brunch as well. Menu options include seafood and steaks, such as mixed seafood pot, shrimp linguini, steak and wedge, and the chef’s burger.

Marine Room

The Marine Room has provided amazing ocean views for more than 70 years. This San Diego staple sits so close to the water that tides reach the windows, creating unforgettable outdoor displays. The Marine Room has won multiple awards from AAA Four Diamond, Open Table and Wine Spectator. Open for all meals and holidays, the menu includes skuna bay salmon and cervena elk loin. Guests can also participate in lobster night and cooking class events.

Ocean Terrace

Known for its roof-top dining, Ocean Terrace at George’s at the Cove ranks as one of San Diego’s most popular restaurants. Diners love the views and atmosphere, and the California modern menu ranges from their famous fish tacos to pasta, sandwiches and more. Pick your favorite for lunch or dinner, and choose between quiet fine dining or spend time with friends at the bar.

It’s time to sample these San Diego waterfront dining options. Book a San Diego vacation rental, then read about the top nightlife spots.