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Top picks in La Mesa

Food for dates

A dinner date where the food is the highlight of the conversation rather than a distraction from it.

Based on 628 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Aromas of India image 1
Aromas of India image 2
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Indian restaurant

Spacious Indian restaurant with modern elegant decor and creative design offers a calm, comfortable atmosphere without TVs. Robotic servers and call buttons add a futuristic, interactive touch to dining. Ceiling fans shaped like children's toys provide unique ventilation in place of central air conditioning.

Food features a unique spice blend that satisfies spicy umami cravings. The garlic cheese Naan stands out as a distinctive dish with rich flavor.

Very affordable option for a night out. Cold Pepsi Cola adds a refreshing touch to the experience.

People are saying

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

"The authentic Indian food here is perfectly spiced and full of flavor."

"The food here is flavorful and delicious, perfect for date spots."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

The restaurant features a diverse menu with options for vegetarians and gluten-free diners.

3

Parking is available on-site, but it can fill up quickly during peak hours.

02
Little Roma Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant with a cozy neighborhood feel and family-friendly dining. Atmosphere is warm and welcoming, often lively and sometimes noisy. Features include a covered outdoor patio with dense greenery and a large wall mural depicting Italy.

Authentic Italian dishes stand out with excellent flavor and consistent quality. Food feels crafted with passion and care.

A cute little spot with good Italian food sets a cozy mood for date nights. It works well for both couples and family outings, making it a versatile choice.

People are saying

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

"I loved the Italian food; every dish I tried was fantastic."

"The food at these Date Spots is phenomenal and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings.

2

Happy hour drinks are available before 6pm with $5 wine options.

3

The restaurant offers generous portions at reasonable prices.

03
I QUE BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Cozy space with southern comfort and friendly hospitality creates a warm, welcoming vibe. Multiple TVs add a casual, lively touch for sports fans. Clean, well-maintained interior supports a family-friendly atmosphere perfect for relaxed meals.

Food offers true Southern cuisine with flavorful dishes and generous portions. Wings, ribs, and mixed plates stand out for their taste and size.

Generous portions of flavorful BBQ dishes like pork rib tips and chopped chicken greens create a satisfying meal. Sides such as collard greens and mac and cheese complement the main dishes well, making it a solid spot for a casual date.

People are saying

"The Durty Mac was cheesy, flavorful, and had a homemade touch."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The food here is fantastic and generously portioned for date spots."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended for larger groups.

2

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during peak dinner hours.

3

Parking is available on-site, but it can fill up quickly.

04
J-K's Greek Cafe image 1
Greek restaurant

Small, unpretentious Greek restaurant with a cozy vibe and fun Greek music playing. New ownership brings a super cute remodel and a welcoming atmosphere that fits well in the neighborhood. Known for generous portions and delicious, authentic Greek cuisine with reasonable prices.

Food here is authentic Greek and made fresh to order. Dishes like pasticio offer perfect comfort food with consistently amazing flavors.

Greek food stands out with amazing Gyro and dishes that impress couples. The menu offers authentic flavors that make it a memorable spot for dates.

People are saying

"I found the Greek food here to be amazing and plentiful."

"The food here is delicious, especially the lemon potatoes."

"The gyros here are juicy and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

J-K's Greek Cafe is closed on Mondays.

2

The prices are reasonable for the generous portions.

3

The menu includes many Greek favorites.

05
Momentos Cafe image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers authentic Mexican food with indoor and outdoor seating in a clean, quiet atmosphere. Food preparation allows for customization to dietary needs, and portions are generally generous. The setting supports relaxed conversation with a calm vibe.

Food comes out fresh and homemade, with an authentic Mexican flavor that shows real care in preparation. Dishes are consistently delicious and reasonably priced.

Pozole offers excellent flavor without greasiness, and the torta de milanesa stands out as a solid choice. This spot suits couples looking for a reliable place to enjoy a casual date night meal.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

"The Mexican food here, especially the chilaquiles, is some of the best I've had."

"The food here is amazing, especially the burgers and pozole."

Good to know

1

The burritos cost around $17, with extra charges for rice and beans.

2

I paid $12.44 for two green chicken enchiladas with rice and beans.

3

The wait time for food is usually just a few minutes.

06
El Veganito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mall food court setting offers a bright space with a clerestory but limited ambiance. The energy is casual and typical of food courts, with a focus on 100% vegan Mexican cuisine. Generous portions and eco-friendly to-go boxes stand out in this tucked-away spot.

Vegan Mexican food here stands out for its freshness and big servings. Veggie tacos, rice, and beans deliver flavors that go beyond typical food court fare.

Phish burrito and adovada tacos stand out as favorite dishes for couples. Carne asada fries offer a hearty option under a different menu name. Meals appeal to both vegan and non-vegan diners.

People are saying

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

"The food here is so fresh, delicious, and flavorful."

"The California burrito here is phenomenally delicious."

Good to know

1

El Veganito is located inside the food court of a mall.

2

El Veganito is open on Tuesdays and closed on Mondays.

3

The burrito costs $16 after taxes.

07
Tour de Tapas image 1
Tapas restaurant

Small space with cozy European decor and secondhand furnishings creates a romantic, relaxing vibe. Wine selection is excellent, complementing a menu with spectacular desserts and authentic tapas. Rolling dice for a chance at a free meal adds a unique touch.

Food features delicious flavors and wonderful quality paired with amazing prices. Wine complements the dishes well.

Offers a casual vibe ideal for romantic dates or catching up with friends. Serves tapas-style dishes that suit sharing and conversation.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible and delicious."

"The food here is delicious, especially the spicy potatoes."

"The dinner spots here are delicious, especially the mussels."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a very small space, limiting tables for larger groups.

2

It takes a minimum of two orders of tapa, priced between $15-20, to get enough food.

3

Happy hour offers good value with discounted drinks and appetizers.

08
Centifonti's Bar & Restaurant image 1

Comfortable homey vibe blends with an old school atmosphere creating a welcoming environment. Multiple football screens show relevant sports games, attracting a lively crowd. Family-friendly touches like crayons and coloring sheets add to the relaxed, casual setting.

Food arrives quickly and tastes really good. Tomato bisque and vegetable soups stand out as consistently delicious. Meals at both breakfast and dinner are very satisfying.

Juicy garlic teriyaki wings with a sauce worth savoring create a tasty shared dish. Friendly hosts add to the relaxed vibe, making it welcoming for couples enjoying a meal together.

People are saying

"I found the breakfast here to be very worth it and delicious."

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

"The food here is delicious and affordable, perfect for date spots."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Saturday from 3-7pm and all day Sunday.

2

Parking is available nearby, but it can be challenging during peak hours.

3

The restaurant accepts credit cards and mobile payments, but no personal checks.

09
Riviera Supper Club and Turquoise Room image 1

Steak house combines retro decor with a live band that fills the space with loud music, creating a trippy, old school vibe. The atmosphere feels cozy yet energetic, often crowded during live performances. Guests can grill their own steaks, adding an interactive element to the dining experience.

Food features grill-your-own options and a brisket corn dog with homemade honey mustard sauce. The menu offers comfort food done right with consistently excellent quality and service.

Perfect for a date night with a cozy ambiance and a friendly bar scene featuring bartenders Chris and Jason. Offers a happy hour vibe that works well for couples or small groups.

People are saying

"The steak here is cooked perfectly to your liking."

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

"The food and drinks here are great for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

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

2

Happy hour offers half off on specialty drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm daily.

3

Live jazz music is featured every Wednesday night, enhancing the dining experience.

10
Konnichiwa Sushi & Bar image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small space with inside and outside seating creates a laid-back, lively vibe filled with 80s new wave music and smiling cooks. Outdoor tables offer people watching and a dog-friendly patio experience. The atmosphere buzzes with energy but stays chill and hip without feeling stuck-up.

Food here is consistently fresh and delicious, with dishes cooked to a tasty finish. Prices stay reasonable while delivering excellent quality.

The spot offers a warm atmosphere that makes special occasions like birthdays feel memorable. Staff interaction adds a personal touch that enhances the overall experience.

People are saying

"The food here is great and tasty."

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The sushi here is so flavorful, I wanted a third roll!"

Good to know

1

Menu prices online may differ from in-store prices; check before ordering.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted sushi options.

3

Portion sizes are generous, providing good value for the price.

11
Golden Bay Asian Food image 1
Asian restaurant

Open kitchen fills the small space with sizzling sounds and rich aromas, creating a warm and lively atmosphere. Outdoor seating offers a pleasant alternative to the cozy but often hot interior. Large portions and customizable menu items attract a steady crowd, especially on busy weekend nights.

Food arrives with super extreme fast service and comes in hefty servings that are freshly prepared. The menu features great Chinese dishes with consistently delicious flavors and friendly staff.

Offers a romantic setting suitable for dinners or dates. The atmosphere supports intimate gatherings with friends or partners.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, hot, and delicious."

"The takeout here is so flavorful, especially the crispy orange chicken."

"The food here is out of this world, especially the sushi and ramen."

Good to know

1

Golden Bay Asian Food is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

2

Expect to wait on Friday or Saturday nights due to high demand.

3

They prefer cash payments, so be prepared.

12
Gus's Subs & Pizza Place image 1

Old school diner atmosphere with cozy indoor seating and an easy-going patio offering pleasant outdoor dining and gorgeous street views. The vibe is local and chill, attracting those who appreciate classic breakfast and hearty sandwiches in a small, unassuming space.

Big portions come with perfectly seasoned meat and consistently delicious food. Service stays outstanding every time.

Frequent visits show this spot works well for casual dates with large sandwiches like Philly cheese steak and chicken. Couples often stop by to grab food and enjoy a relaxed meal together.

People are saying

"I discovered Gus's has great breakfast options, even though the name doesn't suggest it."

"I thought the food was great and the portions were big."

"The sandwiches here are excellent and you get what you pay for."

Good to know

1

The credit card machine doesn't always work, so bring cash as a backup.

2

Gus's serves large portions, often too big to finish in one sitting.

3

There is plenty of parking available for customers.

13
Aromi Italian Cuisine image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy Italian restaurant with heartwarming decor featuring flowers, mirrors, and art creates an inviting atmosphere. Outdoor patio and a private dining room offer versatile seating options. The vibe feels authentically Italian with a vibrant, beautiful interior that enhances the dining experience.

Authentic Italian food shines here with consistently great flavors and top-notch service. The menu includes standout items like French fries that many find exceptional.

Small Italian spots offer a cozy vibe with friendly wait staff and yummy pasta. An awesome pre-fixe date night special for $59 makes it easy to plan a fun evening.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is top-shelf, like in Little Italy."

"The food here is authentic, flavorful, and inspired by classic Italian cuisine."

"The Italian food here is authentic and delicious, perfect for date spots."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM Sunday through Thursday.

2

Happy hour cocktails are $7.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events.

14
La Casa Blanca mexican restaurant image 1

Quaint, colorful Hispanic decor creates a family-friendly atmosphere with a calm, welcoming vibe. Small tables fill the space, making it cozy and good for intimate conversations or romantic dates. Handmade corn tortillas and authentic Mexican food define the culinary experience.

Authentic Mexican food stands out with dishes made to order and consistently delicious flavors. Friendly service complements the great food experience.

Staff quickly adjust orders without hassle or cost. They remember regular orders and preferred seating. Food offers authentic flavors and options like chicken salad, creating a romantic atmosphere.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious and authentic."

"I enjoyed the champagne brunch and the food was delicious."

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

The Mexican buffet brunch is available on Sundays.

2

Parking is plentiful in the back of the restaurant.

3

The California Burrito costs under $13 with a drink.

15
El Torito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with authentic decor and a festive atmosphere features loud music and sports on TV with sound down. Seating options vary for small and large groups, including private areas. The vibe can shift from quiet to lively depending on crowd size and room acoustics.

Food comes out quickly and tastes consistently amazing. The menu features fantastic Mexican dishes that create a nostalgic dining experience.

Consistent excellent dining creates a reliable spot for couples. Celebrations like anniversaries fit well with the enjoyable atmosphere and flavorful fajitas.

People are saying

"The food here was good and served hot."

"The Mexican food deals during happy hour are really good."

"The food here is amazing, perfect for date spots."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour Specials are available in the bar area, including booths in the upper part of the restaurant.

2

The Sunday buffet brunch runs from 9:00am to 2:00pm with bottomless mimosas.

3

Reservations are recommended for the Sunday brunch due to high demand.

16
Chili's Grill & Bar image 1

Large TV screens create a family-friendly atmosphere with a lively energy especially during game nights. The place draws a mixed crowd enjoying affordable meals and popular margaritas. Noise levels can rise, making it a vibrant spot for casual dining and sports viewing.

Food arrives fresh and hot with excellent quality and affordable prices. Service is quick and attentive, ensuring orders are accurate and timely.

Offers good value for money on dates. Drink options are limited, so checking the menu helps. Suitable for couples with a newborn looking for a casual night out.

People are saying

"The food here is great and always served hot."

"The date spots here are so friendly and make you feel right at home."

"Our server Alex was so sweet and great with the kids."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait of up to 30 minutes for takeout during peak hours.

2

Parking can be challenging at this location, especially during busy times.

3

Chili's offers a $10 bonus for every $50 spent with coupons.

17
Hacienda Cazadores image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with beautiful decor and a warm, inviting atmosphere featuring live dancers and cozy outdoor patio. The space feels spacious yet charming, combining indoor elegance with lively energy. Music and vibrant ambiance create an engaging dining experience.

Food offers delicious, flavorful dishes with a unique blend of Mexican and traditional American Thanksgiving flavors. The molcajete hacienda stands out as a notable menu item.

People are saying

"The food here is just amazing."

"The Mexican food here is tender, flavorful, and expertly prepared."

"The food here is amazing, tasting homemade and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity since opening.

2

Hacienda Cazadores charges a surcharge for credit card payments without prior notice.

3

Prices are on the higher side, with enchiladas costing over $30.

18
El Azteca Taco Shop image 1
Taco restaurant

Old school taco shop with a busy, straightforward atmosphere. Known for large portions and affordable prices, it draws a steady crowd looking for breakfast burritos and authentic Mexican flavors. The vibe is simple and unpretentious, focusing on value and traditional offerings.

Generous servings of greasy, delicious Mexican food come at a low price. The breakfast burritos and red sauce stand out for their flavor and quality.

Breakfast burritos get multiple tries and show consistency. Fish tacos come with a meal option. Guacamole on tacos can taste off.

People are saying

"These tacos are so delicious, especially with their amazing green sauce."

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and high quality for date spots."

"I thought the Mexican food here was amazing and affordable."

Good to know

1

Prices are reasonable, especially for large portions.

2

A 'jr.' breakfast burrito costs about $6.

3

Parking can be difficult near the 7-11.

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La Mesa, California

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