Tasting menus. Multiple courses. Unbeatable flavors. Wine pairings. Amazing service…what’s not to love when it comes to having dinner at Michelin restaurants in San Diego? For a complete list of locations, read on!
1. Addison
We have to start with none other than Addison, Southern California’s first and only three-star Michelin restaurant, located in the heart of San Diego. Chef William Bradley has helmed the stoves at Addison since 2006. Their ten-course tasting menu is seasonal, and available for $375 a person – without the wine pairing. You can expect global influences, with a SoCal flare. According to Michelin, the star of the show is sesame-seasoned Koshihikari rice, finished with applewood-smoked sabayon and topped with Regiis Ova reserve caviar.
2. Soichi
Soichi is the second (and last) restaurant in San Diego that has a Michelin star. Named after Chef Soichi Kadoya, this in as intimate Japanese restaurant serving an a-la-carte menu, or omakase options. If you’re wondering what “omakase” means, it’s literally “I leave it up to you” – hence, the chef takes the reins. You can expect exceptional sushi, Spanish bluefin tuna, miso marinated sea bass, and homemade green tea ice cream.
3. Carmelita Molino y Cocina
This Mexican restaurant has gained Michelin’s guide attention, and received a Bib Gourmand. The name comes from the chef’s grandmother, who inspired his cooking. Corn here is sourced from local farms, and, of course, you can expect homemade tortillas for your tacos and tostadas. Try their tamale of the day!
4. Cesarina
This Bib Gourmand spot celebrates Italian cuisine. The concept here is to mix and match. First, you decide on what type of pasta you’d like, then add your sauces, and finally, toppings. You can go with classics, go a bit crazy, or just ask the staff if your invention is a good idea. Get the tiramisu – it’s prepared table side, bringing you an amazing show.
5. Mabel’s Gone Fishing
The Michelin Guide also recognized this beautiful seafood spot in San Diego. The place is named after the owner’s dog, and the decor honors Mabel, too. The restaurant blends Californian and Iberian cuisine, and the menu changes often, based on local ingredients. Try their signature gin based cocktails!
6. Kettner Exchange
This San Diegan restaurant features contemporary American food. The spicy tuna crispy rice is a beloved dish here, and so is the classic duck meatball. The menu is meant to be shared, so grab your favorite people, choose some favorite plates, and enjoy this gem.
7. Callie
This Mediterranean restaurant offers the best ingredients of SoCal, and mixes them beautifully in sharable plates. The Michelin guide mention their Japanese Kanpachi (crudo) as a highlight, while the reviews seem to love dips like hummus, babaghanoush, and avocado labneh.
8. Ciccia Osteria
Barrio Logan hosts this San Diegan spot that earned its Bab Gourmand with their dozens of homemade pastas. Ciccia Osteria is ran by a beautiful married couple, and the family vibes are felt throughout. Reviews talk about feeling like you “eat at someone’s house” – in a good way. The Michelin guide mentions the tuna tartare, and the cheesy mushroom flan. This is one of the most affordable options on this list.
9. Morning Glory
It’s not usual for Michelin restaurants in San Diego to serve breakfast or brunch, but this one is an exception. Morning Glory is a very Instagramable spot, with chic decor, and a champagne vending machine. Their soufflé pancakes are popular with the crowds, and so is there ginger fried rice. If you’ve never tried Georgian cuisine, you should also go for their Khachapuri.
10. LOLA 55
While the decor here stands out, people come for the tacos. We know San Diego has plenty of spots for this beloved dish, but here, they come with an elevated twist. A fan-favorite is their baja style fish taco, so make sure not to miss it. The pork belly al pastor is also a great choice.
11. Cucina Urbana
This casual spot full of locals is the last, but not least, on our list of Michelin restaurants in San Diego. They got their Bib Gourmand with a Californian-Italian menu. You can find classic pasta dishes and beloved pizzas, or you can go for something special. The guide recommends their pepperoni with ricotta, mozzarella, calabrian chili and hot honey. You can choose from their retail-priced wines and pay the corkage fee, or bring your own, and also pay (a higher) corkage fee.