Modern diner style blends with 80s Los Angeles nostalgia in a cozy, laid-back space featuring leather booths and blue lighting. Music and live NBA games create a lively yet relaxed vibe. The atmosphere feels inviting and stylish, drawing in those who appreciate a cool, comfortable setting.
Onion rings come out perfectly crispy and exceptionally good. They pair well with homemade ranch and BBQ sauce for dipping.
The BBQ sauce has a peppered, smoky taste without much kick. The spicy BBQ bacon burger pairs well with onion rings and homemade ranch, and adding the sauce to other burgers enhances their flavor.
Good to know
Parking can be tricky; expect to circle the block for a spot.
The restaurant does not have a bathroom available for customers.
They do not accept cash payments; only cards are accepted.
Industrial and chic decor shapes a small but impactful space with open sidewalk bar seating ideal for people watching. Atmosphere balances cozy and lively with a slower pace that suits conversation and enjoying drinks. Frequented for delicious burgers and creative cocktails, it offers a full bar and occasional live music with dancing.
Tempura onion rings come with several burgers and offer a crispy texture and rich flavor. They pair well with the Bourbon BBQ and Drunken Pig burgers, enhancing the overall meal.
Burgers feature a smoky bourbon barbecue flavor with a touch of sweetness. The BBQ sauce adds a little kick, and the burgers come juicy, cooked to medium or medium well.
Good to know
Reservations are recommended, especially on busy nights.
Happy hour runs from 12 to 6 pm on weekdays with great specials.
Bar seating is available for walk-ins if reservations are full.
Outdoor seating on a covered terrace overlooks a lively boardwalk near Muscle Beach, creating an energetic atmosphere. Old school jams play consistently, adding to the upbeat vibe. The place draws a mix of locals and beachgoers, offering late-night hours until 3am.
Onion rings come as a large portion and can replace fries in combos. They have a crispy texture and stand out compared to other places, often described as fire and well-loved alongside wings and burgers.
Honey BBQ wings stand out with a sweet and tangy flavor. Spicy wings and onion rings also feature on the menu, adding variety to the BBQ options.
Good to know
Marathon Burger is open until 3am daily, perfect for late-night cravings.
Expect longer wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.
The $20 OG Burger meal includes a burger, fries, and a drink.
Smoked meats fill the air in a clean, spacious setting with friendly atmosphere and family business charm. Small bar area features Chapman Crafted beers on tap and TVs showing sports. Seating options include a bar and dining room, creating a welcoming environment where the owner engages with guests.
Onion rings come out fresh, not frozen, with a crisp texture. They pair well with brisket and stand out as a very good side option.
Barbecue here stands out with award-winning flavors and a sauce that acts as the icing on the cake. Cream corn is a notable side, and the overall BBQ is consistently fantastic.
Good to know
Ribs are in limited supply and tend to run out quickly.
They only have ribs every other Sunday.
Expect to pay around $23 for a meal.
Small sandwich shop with outdoor sidewalk seating creates a homey, simple atmosphere. Energy stays relaxed with kind staff and a hole-in-the-wall vibe. Popular for high-quality roast beef sandwiches that draw fans of East Coast style subs.
Hand-cut and delicately battered, the onion rings come freshly made with a generous portion size. They pair well with sandwiches and have a consistently outstanding and fantastic taste.
Tender roast beef shines with BBQ and horseradish sauces on the side. Sandwiches keep it simple with bread, beef, and cheese, letting the BBQ sauce stand out perfectly.
Good to know
There is no indoor seating; all seating is outside on the sidewalk.
Parking in Pacific Beach can be difficult, so plan accordingly.
Expect large portions for the price, making it a good value.
Tiny burger joint with cramped seating and open kitchen creates an intimate setting. Atmosphere feels welcoming and lively, with a kinky-themed vibe and energetic back area. Outdoor seating faces a busy street, adding urban noise and smells to the experience.
Large onion rings come with burgers and have a crispy texture. They pair well with homemade BBQ sauce and are consistently tasty alongside fries.
Burgers come with homemade BBQ sauce that stands out for its flavor. The Cowgirl cheeseburger includes bacon and onion rings alongside the sauce.
Good to know
Parking is limited at the location.
Seating is limited during busy hours.
Expect to pay over $20 for a combo meal.
Country style throwback with pine wood paneling and faux antler light fixtures creates a down home rustic atmosphere. Walls display support for first responders and biker clubs, adding a unique patriotic vibe. Outdoor areas include a dog-friendly patio and a grassy park for walking.
Onion rings come with a beer batter style breading that stays light and crispy. They pair well with a cilantro dressing that adds a fresh, fun dip.
BBQ tri tip stands out with on point BBQ sauce and tender meat. Plates include baby back ribs paired with classic sides like mashed potatoes and home fries.
Good to know
The restaurant plays the national anthem every day at noon.
Everyone stands to honor the flag during the national anthem at noon.
The portions served at the restaurant are very generous.
Small space filled with black and white celebrity photos and a strong smoking wood smell sets a cozy, hole-in-the-wall vibe. Live blues music and free arcade games add a relaxed, entertaining energy. Seating inside is basic but inviting, creating a friendly atmosphere.
Onion rings come crispy and pair with a southwestern-style spicy ranch dipping sauce. They hold up well alongside hearty dishes like brisket and pulled pork sandwiches.
Four huge beef ribs come covered in tasty BBQ sauce with great flavor. The BBQ is consistently well-cooked and matches exactly what is ordered.
Good to know
There is a $40 per person minimum charge.
Harry's offers takeout options for those who prefer to eat at home.
The space is small with limited indoor seating.
Mesquite fire pit infuses barbecue with authentic smoky flavor and fills the air with a distinctive aroma. Rustic interior features license plates on walls and a warm, inviting atmosphere that suits casual outings and takeout. Live music and a family-owned vibe add to the relaxed, welcoming energy.
Crispy and golden, the onion rings come perfectly fried with a flavorful crunch. They serve as a great side or a satisfying snack alongside dishes like the Pulled Pork Burger with Coleslaw and Mayo.
Smoked ribs, steak, and links come with spot on seasoning and a smoky aroma that fills the air. Sandwiches, coleslaw, and cornbread match the authentic barbecue flavor throughout the meal.
Good to know
Karaoke happens every Sunday night, starting at 8pm.
There is plenty of parking available, both indoor and outdoor.
The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating options.
Small, intimate spot with three large TVs always tuned to sports creates a chill, fun vibe for families and locals. Dog-friendly patio adds to the relaxed atmosphere, while rotating craft beers and standout BBQ dishes draw a steady crowd.
Onion rings come with a crispy texture and a delicious flavor. Ranch dressing is available but costs an extra dollar.
Excellent quality BBQ stands out here with pork BBQ nachos and BBQ wings offering strong flavors. The BBQ overall holds a great reputation for taste and quality.
Good to know
Wings are available for one dollar each on Monday nights, in multiples of six.
The restaurant offers daily specials that may change the menu options.
The large tap list frequently changes with special events and guest taps.
Historic fire station converted into a spacious restaurant with exposed brickwork and vaulted ceilings creates a striking setting. Loud noise levels make conversation difficult during dinner. Outdoor patio features a stage and BBQ grill, hosting games and relaxed meals.
Onion rings come out hot and crispy, often paired with pulled pork or tater tots. They stand out as a popular side and are considered among the best in the area.
Brisket stands out with its delicious flavor and shines in the BBQ Brisket tacos. Sides include BBQ beans, cornbread, and coleslaw, all solid choices, while mac and cheese is just okay.
Good to know
Happy hour runs until 7:30 PM with a diverse selection of beers.
Expect long wait times, especially during peak hours.
The kitchen often runs out of popular items by early evening.
Beach vacation theme creates a nostalgic and inviting atmosphere with comfortable booths and clean, well-decorated interior. Live entertainment by magicians and an original jukebox add to the lively, family-friendly vibe. Music plays a key role, enhancing the upbeat energy throughout the space.
Crispy and flavorful, the onion rings stand out as a delicious side. They pair well with dishes like the French Dip and rockabilly riblets, adding a satisfying crunch.
Fall off the bone BBQ chicken stands out with tender meat and rich flavor. The BBQ Rib Tip appetizer offers a finger licking good taste, complemented by a phenomenal BBQ sauce.
Good to know
Magic Night occurs every Wednesday with a magician performing tricks.
All-you-can-eat spaghetti special on Mondays after 4 PM.
Fridays feature all-you-can-eat fish and chips after 4 PM.
Hawaiian-themed decor creates a laid-back, fun atmosphere with a California Beach vibe. Indoor space feels clean and spacious, complemented by a recently renovated outdoor seating area. The setting includes a bar and maintains a casual, friendly energy throughout.
Onion rings come out perfectly crispy with a great texture. They stand out as very well made and consistently enjoyable.
Good to know
Big Kahuna's is dog friendly and offers outdoor seating.
The restaurant is located right on the split of IB and Coronado strand entrance.
The prices at Big Kahuna's are reasonable for the amount and quality of food.
Small hamburger restaurant blends old school diner and 70s mechanic shop styles with a relaxed, chill vibe highlighted by string lights and privacy screens. Indoor space offers ample TVs and limited seating, while a full bar and unique soda flavors add variety. Energy feels welcoming but somewhat tired compared to earlier times.
Onion rings come crispy and well-seasoned, often served alongside burgers or fries. They pair well with sweet BBQ sauce and appear consistently as a tasty side option.
Pulled pork fries come loaded with fries, onion rings, Mac and cheese, BBQ sauce, and ranch. The BBQ bacon burger features sweet BBQ sauce, crispy lettuce, tomato, and tasty bacon for a solid burger experience.
Good to know
Kids eat free on certain days, making it a great family option.
Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.
The restaurant maintains a clean environment with regular cleaning.
Barbecue restaurant with saloon vibe and indoor and outdoor seating opens up to the street, creating a relaxed and calm atmosphere. TVs show sports while music adds to the friendly mood. Quiet evenings contrast with nearby busy spots, offering a unique, laid-back experience.
Crispy and delicious onion rings come as a side with burgers. They pair well with beans and stand out as a great snack on their own.
Beef ribs stand out as a unique offering in the area. Wings, rib sandwiches, and baby back ribs pair well with a selection of IPAs. Prices stay reasonable while service remains friendly and efficient.
Good to know
Gaslamp BBQ does not serve breakfast.
It is the only place in the Gaslamp with beef ribs.
Parking can be difficult due to its proximity to the San Diego Convention Center.