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Salad dinner spots in Chula Vista

A dinner spot that treats a salad like a main course rather than just a side dish you have to settle for.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Little Italy Ristorante, Chula Vista in San Diego image 1
Little Italy Ristorante, Chula Vista in San Diego image 2
Little Italy Ristorante, Chula Vista in San Diego image 3
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Italian restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with soft, calm music and classic Italian decor featuring photos of Canali di Venezia. The vibe is warm and inviting, blending old-school movie style with real Italian charm. Guests enjoy a relaxing setting that feels like dining in an authentic Italian neighborhood.

Salads feature generous portions and a perfect mix of ingredients. The Caesar salad with chicken and the Greek salad stand out, both paired well with house-made dressings.

Dinner service includes staggered plating, causing some to eat separately. Wait times can exceed 10 minutes for some dishes during dinner.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is served by the most amazing, friendly, and attentive staff."

"Jason's attentiveness made the salad experience refreshing."

"The dinner spots here are great."

Good to know

1

They are open late until midnight.

2

Happy hour specials are available; check for specific times.

3

A small Caesar pizza costs around $20 when ordered through mobile apps.

02
KABOB SHACK - BROADWAY image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Small, bright space with cool local artwork and lots of windows creates a casual, inviting vibe. Music plays a fun, lively role, complementing the sauce bar where guests serve themselves. Atmosphere feels like a modern deli or taco shop, blending quick service with a cozy, clean setting.

Salads come fresh and well dressed with Greek salad standing out as flavorful. They often accompany dishes like chicken kabob or tandoori chicken, pairing well with grilled veggies and pita.

Casual and inviting atmosphere suits a relaxing dinner. The spot works well for both lunch and dinner with a friendly vibe.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"I tried the lentil soup with my gyro salad and it was delicious."

"The food here is so fresh and flavorful for dinner."

Good to know

1

The prices are very reasonable compared to similar restaurants.

2

Portion sizes may be smaller than expected for the price.

3

Dressings and hot sauces are available for an additional charge of $0.90 each.

03
Pizzo's Pizzeria at Millenia Otay Ranch image 1

Open kitchen and rustic decor create a warm, inviting space with a laid-back atmosphere. Heated outdoor patio offers seating with a breeze, though sun exposure can be strong. The place draws a mix of families and couples, making it suitable for casual get-togethers and date nights.

Salads come in generous portions that can easily serve two people when paired with other dishes. The quality is solid, making the salads a reliable choice.

Warm, inviting environment suits family dinners, date nights, and casual meetups. Regular visits make it a steady part of the dinner routine.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pizza and pasta, was fantastic."

"The authentic Italian food here is magnificent, especially the pizza."

"The salads here are especially generous and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Expect wait times of up to 60 minutes during peak hours.

04
Old Hickory Steakhouse image 1

Bright, open steakhouse contrasts typical dark, enclosed designs with a vivid atmosphere and poolside views. Dry aging occurs on-site, supporting high-quality steaks that often impress with perfect cooking. Bar area feels casual and sports-like, differing from the more refined dining space.

Wedge salads come light and flavorful with a side of herb butter and sea salt on Parker house rolls. The Dungeness Crab Salad features cauliflower panna cotta and dill for a fresh taste.

People are saying

"The steak here is 100% perfect, with great dry-aged flavor."

"The dry-aged ribeye for dinner spots was perfectly cooked and flavorful."

"The steaks here are dry-aged to perfection with great flavor."

Good to know

1

Validated parking costs $35 for up to two hours.

2

Free parking is available along the hotel until 10:30 p.m.

3

Valet service is offered for $30 for 0-2 hours.

05
Lime in the Coconut image 1

Restaurant combines tropical and midcentury modern tiki decor with a cozy lounge area and bright, casual setting. Atmosphere stays low key and stylish, suited for relaxed nights with friends. Speakeasy in back adds a secretive, exclusive vibe requiring reservation or password.

Mango Avocado Salad offers incredible flavor combinations and is fully vegan without added protein. Wasabi potato salad and spring roll salad with chicken also stand out as fresh options.

Dinner here offers a varied menu with dishes that hit the mark. The spot suits family gatherings and special occasions like anniversaries.

People are saying

"The Speakeasy staff, especially Lily and Natalie, made us feel like family."

"The food and drinks here are great."

"The Mango Avocado Salad's flavor combinations are amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM with $7 mai tais and aloha margaritas.

2

Reservations are required for the speakeasy located in the back.

3

Parking is available behind the venue.

06
The Kebab Shop image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant with a clean, spacious layout and a relaxed, fast casual atmosphere suited for families and friends. Soft jazz music creates a pleasant, vibey environment while a sauce bar adds a distinctive touch to the dining experience.

Falafel and kale quinoa stand out as fresh salad options. Salads come with great value and include a lactose-free dressing choice.

Dinner offers healthy options and easy prep meals. It suits family dinners and quick pickups after busy days.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fresh and delicious."

"The service here for dinner spots is super friendly and welcoming."

"I found the salad bowl to be great value and flavor."

Good to know

1

Kids eat free on weekends.

2

The restaurant is very clean.

3

The location has lots of parking available.

07
Simply Fresh Thai image 1
Thai restaurant

Small, cozy space blends modern elegance with traditional Thai charm through dim lighting and authentic artwork. Atmosphere stays serene and quiet during late lunch, inviting relaxed dining. Family-owned kitchen uses fresh, quality ingredients to deliver authentic flavors in generous portions.

Papaya salad stands out with its freshly cut ingredients and a balance of flavors, though it can sometimes feel less cohesive. The salad pairs well with dishes like gyoza, which toddlers also enjoy.

Dimly lit dining area with Thai artwork sets a serene atmosphere ideal for a romantic dinner. Short wait times make it convenient even during busy dinner hours.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, bursting with flavor and perfectly balanced."

"These dinner spots offer fresh, flavorful Thai food."

"You have to try the papaya salad; it's a must-order."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is family owned, with the mother doing the cooking.

2

The ingredients are super fresh, ensuring high-quality dishes.

3

Expect short wait times even during busy dinner hours.

08
Filippi's Pizza Grotto Chula Vista image 1

Cozy, old school pizzeria with a rustic look and dim lighting creates a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. Tables sit close together, enhancing the mom and pop shop feel. Games for kids add to the welcoming environment.

Antipasto salad stands out with black and green olives, red beans, and a homemade dressing. House salads offer fresh, varied ingredients that complement the menu well.

Dinner offers large pepperoni pizzas and other pies with an attentive host. It suits family meals and handles weekend crowds without wait times.

People are saying

"The pizza here is delicious and satisfying."

"I enjoyed the pizza at this dinner spot; it was above average."

"I found the antipasto salad delicious with a variety of ingredients."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a large, free parking lot available for customers.

2

Takeout orders can be placed online or by phone to save time.

3

Expect no small pizzas available after 4pm.

09
Garbatella Italiano image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers live music that creates an elegant and inviting atmosphere suitable for families and romantic nights. Interior features include beautiful murals and gardens, with a bar area enhancing the space. The vibe balances comfort and sophistication, making it feel special without being overwhelming.

Salads come as solid starters with fresh ingredients. The Caesar salad stands out as a shared favorite alongside vegetarian pizza and lasagne.

Dinner here feels quiet and relaxed most of the time. Service by Carlos stands out, making occasions like Anniversary and Valentine's Day dinners more enjoyable.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the pasta and pizza, tastes homemade and authentic."

"Carlos made our dinner experience so enjoyable."

"I loved the divine Arugula Salad."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a daily happy hour with affordable options.

2

Live music occurs on Friday nights starting at 7:00 PM.

3

Parking is free and readily available near the restaurant.

10
Buffet House image 1
Chinese restaurant

Large, bright dining area offers spacious seating and a hibachi grill station for made-to-order dishes. Atmosphere feels friendly and relaxed despite occasional crowding and loud music. Buffet includes self-serve soda and ice cream machines enhancing the casual vibe.

Freshness stands out with a good selection at the salad table. Options include a variety of Asian-style salads alongside other dishes, all served with consistent quality.

Dinner offers a better experience than lunch with a wide selection available. Prices stay high even when some items like coconut shrimp are not served.

People are saying

"The buffet has so many great, well-seasoned options."

"I found the food, including the salads, to be good."

"The dinner spots here have fresh and delicious Asian BBQ and soups."

Good to know

1

I paid $20 per person for the all-you-can-eat buffet.

2

The prices for lunch are $17.95 for adults and $1.50 per year for children up to age 11.

3

The buffet offers a good variety of food choices.

11
Pho Hiep & Grill image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant offers big, bustling space with artistic decor featuring paintings and distinctive lighting. Atmosphere blends cozy and lively vibes with good music playing consistently. Crowds gather regularly, with quick service and ample parking available.

Vietnamese chicken salad appears often and comes with various dishes like sandwiches and dinner plates. Jellyfish salad is also available but has caused food poisoning in one case.

Dinner includes a Bahn mi plate served with soup and chicken salad, making for a filling meal. Drinks like Taro Milk with Boba offer a sweet, non-alcoholic option with less caffeine.

People are saying

"The pho here is always good and tasty."

"The dinner spots here have great flavor and large portions."

"I loved the Vietnamese chicken salad."

Good to know

1

Expect about 10 minutes wait time during busy hours.

2

There is a big free parking lot right in front of the restaurant.

3

Their happy hour specials offer great deals.

12
Sura BBQ & SHABU image 1

Restaurant offers all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ with self-serve meat bars and adjustable exhaust fans at each grill to minimize smoke. Atmosphere feels modern and lively, suitable for casual meals and group gatherings despite tables being close together. Efficient ventilation and a soft-serve ice cream machine add to the dining experience.

Self-serve cold station offers a variety of salads, sauces, and some meats. Salad bar includes Korean side dishes but has a design flaw with the dressing spoon placed inside the dressing container.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and high-quality."

"The Dinner Spots had a good selection of tasty meats."

"The salad bar had a lot of delicious food available."

Good to know

1

Ice cream is served after 4:00 PM.

2

Lunch service is expected to start soon.

3

Parking is limited due to nearby residential units.

13
Treo Kitchen + Bar image 1
Californian restaurant

Massive restaurant with stunning ocean views from every table and a gorgeous patio creates a bright, airy setting filled with natural light. Atmosphere ranges from relaxing to lively, with occasional noise from families and outdoor wind. Seating is comfortable and well organized, accommodating large groups easily.

Salads feature perfectly cooked salmon and juicy grilled chicken as protein options. Dressings like ranch and green goddess come on the side, allowing for custom blends. The chopped kale salad offers a fresh, flavorful choice.

People are saying

"The breakfast buffet here is amazing with so many options."

"The Caesar salad here is delectable with a generous portion."

"The breakfast buffet here is so good, I plan to return repeatedly."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating.

2

Expect busy breakfast hours, especially near the omelette station.

3

The restaurant accepts only credit cards for payment.

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Chula Vista, California

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