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Local picks

Expensive American food in San Diego

You want American classics that are executed with a higher level of precision. You are looking for familiar flavors that have been refined.

Based on 764 Opinions
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01
Rosemarie's Buns & Brews image 1
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Small hamburger spot offers an open beachy vibe with dog-friendly patio and sunroom seating. Atmosphere feels laid-back and lively, with loud music and a warm, welcoming energy. Crowd includes families and friends enjoying unique, well-priced sliders and good beer on tap.

Burgers stand out with a crisp crust and juicy interior. The Nashville Hot Chicken sandwich offers a spicy kick that beats typical versions. BBQ sauce and crispy onion rings top the western bacon cheeseburger.

People are saying

"I loved their juicy, flavorful American food sliders."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6 PM for the OB womenโ€™s club event.

2

The restaurant has onsite parking available in the back.

3

Each slider costs $8 and is palm-sized, perfect for mixing and matching.

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Old style butcher shop with staff behind the counter creates a quaint atmosphere. Offers a broad selection of exotic and premium meats, including dry-aged steaks and rare cuts. Includes a full market with gourmet foods, wines, and beers, making it a unique spot for diverse culinary needs.

Brisket flat comes out fantastic and ready for pickup. Club sandwich tastes delicious. They sell Julian apple pies along with brisket, bones, and boar.

People are saying

"The American Food here has excellent quality meat, it's worth the price."

Good to know

1

Iowa Meat Farms offers a wide selection of specialty meats, including ostrich and venison.

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Prices are generally higher than average supermarkets, reflecting the quality of the products.

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They provide vacuum sealing for meats, making it convenient for customers.

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Small butcher shop with outdoor counter seating and a smoker trailer emitting strong aromas. Atmosphere feels like a casual bro hangout with high-quality meats and a focus on takeout sandwiches. Limited seating encourages quick visits, often with a wait for popular items.

Philly cheesesteak stands out with a flavorful roll, shaved steak, and subtle peppers and onions. Huge portions of double cheeseburgers and roast beef sandwiches come with fries and reasonable prices.

People are saying

"The Philly cheesesteak here is amazing and melt-in-your-mouth."

Good to know

1

The deli offers great quality meat and delicious sandwiches until 5 PM.

2

It's important to consider the wait time, which can easily be 40 minutes to an hour.

3

There isn't much seating at The Wise Ox Butcher & Deli.

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Upscale steakhouse offers stunning harbor views and an exquisite ambiance with neat, fancy decor. Noise levels can be high, especially outdoors near the freeway, but the atmosphere suits special occasions. The setting includes outdoor seating with heaters and a vibe that matches the quality of the food.

Steaks like the prime New York strip and T-bone come out juicy, tender, and cooked just right. The sweet potato casserole stands out as a dish that works well as both a side and a dessert.

People are saying

"The American Food steaks here are cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6pm, Monday to Friday.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

3

Expect a wait time of 30-45 minutes during peak dinner hours.

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Small hamburger restaurant with cozy diner vibe and friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Space feels larger with floor-to-ceiling mirrors and offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Burgers come with fresh ingredients and the spot is known for its clean environment and quiet music level.

Creamy mac and cheese stands out as a highlight, often described as amazing and underrated. The double cheeseburger and corn ribs pack a lot of flavor and complement the American food offerings well.

People are saying

"I thought the American food, especially the burgers, was awesome."

Good to know

1

The food takes about 5-7 minutes to prepare for a table of three.

2

Many places in Barrio Logan close on Mondays, which may affect your plans.

3

The price of a hamburger increased by $2 compared to last year.

06
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Diner-style setup with small town charm and bar-style seating creates a casual, nostalgic vibe. Outdoor seating under shade adds to the relaxed atmosphere, while music enhances the energy. The place feels warm and welcoming despite some noise from nearby delivery trucks.

Simple menu features biscuits and gravy and homemade hash browns cooked perfectly and served generously. Comfort foods include a jalapeรฑo patty melt and tasty omelets with shredded hash browns and rye toast.

People are saying

"The American Food hash browns were delicious and cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

On its 13th anniversary, the restaurant offered 50% off food.

2

The restaurant is located just a couple blocks from the convention center.

3

Free coffee is available before 9am.

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Beachside hamburger spot offers a large outdoor patio with live music and a funky, eclectic decor featuring license plates and surfboards. The vibe is lively and fun, attracting people who enjoy burgers paired with house-brewed beers. Sidewalk seating adds to the casual, energetic atmosphere.

Cheeseburgers stand out with options like the double bacon cheeseburger and mini bacon cheeseburger loaded with toppings. Fries come alongside and complement the meals well.

People are saying

"The American food, especially the burgers, are bigger than expected."

Good to know

1

Parking is free for the first hour, then you have to pay.

2

Expect at least a 30-minute wait during lunch hours on weekends.

3

Long lines are common on Wednesday afternoons.

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Bar and grill with ocean views and an indoor-outdoor second story creates a lively, cozy atmosphere. Outdoor seating is dog friendly and popular, while multiple sports TVs show several games simultaneously. The place fills up and gets loud, especially later in the evening.

Bacon cheeseburgers and hot wings stand out with solid flavors. The menu also features a T-bone steak with fries and veggie medley, plus a huge club sandwich and creamy mac and cheese.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the French onion soup, is delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking at The Spot can be challenging.

2

They have Trivia Night on Tuesdays.

3

Happy Hour gives $3 off appetizers.

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Rooftop restaurant offers breathtaking ocean views with a chic and charming ambiance. Outdoor seating includes lounge groups with fire pits that create a chill atmosphere by the water. Music plays at a comfortable level, enhancing the relaxed vibe.

Wagyu cheeseburger and fries stand out with rich flavor. The hamburger is solid. Lobster Mac and cheese includes lobster pieces but lacks seasoning.

People are saying

"The American Food here has amazing views and ambience."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers cocktails and small plates, but food specials are limited.

2

The rooftop bar provides stunning views, ideal for sunset dining.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups to avoid long wait times.

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Sprawling restaurant blends indoor art deco with a lush outdoor patio featuring a grassy area for lawn games. Atmosphere stays cheeky and vibrant with live classical music and a lively crowd. Cocktail menu highlights tea-based drinks alongside unique British-inspired dishes.

Prime rib dishes stand out with a feast-sized special and a popular dip that appeals even to those less fond of prime rib. Fish and chips also feature as a delicious classic alongside the prime rib dip.

People are saying

"The prime rib dip and fish and chips were delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 3-6pm with great cocktail deals.

3

The restaurant allows individual payments during happy hour.

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Chicken wings restaurant offers a laid back vibe with loud music and multiple TVs for watching games. The space is small and cozy, filling up quickly with locals during events. Wings come in varied, flavorful options that many find among the best available.

Chicken wings come in about 67 different flavors, including spicy Habanero. The wings are juicy, full of flavor, and often paired with sides like fried pickles and loaded fries.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the chicken wings, comes in so many tasty flavors."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 3 pm to 6 pm.

2

Enjoy half-price chicken wings all day on Tuesdays.

3

All-you-can-eat wings are available on Mondays.

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Cozy converted building with indoor and outdoor seating including a heated shaded patio creates a homey vibe. Numerous sports screens and live music add casual energy. The atmosphere feels low-energy and relaxed, attracting those who enjoy a quiet spot for drinks and games.

Cheeseburgers come with tater tots that are perfect. Ceviche serves as an excellent starter even in a hamburger spot. Medium doneness for burgers varies, so ask about their version.

People are saying

"The American food, especially the burgers and fries, is delicious."

Good to know

1

Half-off burgers are available on Tuesdays.

2

Happy hour offers daily specials, including half-price sliders.

3

Parking is plentiful near the restaurant.

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Small hamburger spot offers high-quality smash burgers with homemade spicy ketchup and perfect fries. Outdoor seating resembles a cozy cafe with mellow vibes and music. Limited seating and tricky parking shape a casual, intimate experience.

Double cheeseburgers stand out with excellent texture and careful preparation. They serve a house-made spicy ketchup that complements the burgers well.

People are saying

"This American food, especially the cheeseburger, is better than In-N-Out."

Good to know

1

Parking is difficult with limited spots available for multiple businesses.

2

The restaurant has limited seating, which may lead to wait times.

3

Prices are high, with a double cheeseburger costing around $14.

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Restaurant combines sophisticated steakhouse decor with casual, comfortable seating and multiple TVs for game viewing. Atmosphere shifts from chill and welcoming to lively during sports events, attracting those who enjoy burgers and drinks in a fun, relaxed setting.

Hamburgers range from classic cheeseburgers to gourmet builds. Loaded fries and the OG burger come with solid flavor. Meals often pair well with a beer.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the burgers, is juicy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking is nearly impossible during Padres games without paying a high fee for garage parking.

2

Swagyu Burger East Village offers dog-friendly items for customers with pets.

3

Expect quick service on game days due to high demand.

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Historic diner space blends traditional American style with modern updates like crystal chandeliers and a vibrant mural. Atmosphere feels classy and quaint, offering a clean, bright environment with both indoor and outdoor seating. Live jazz and a small bar add to a relaxed, inviting vibe.

Chicken fried steak stands out as a highlight. The Prime Rib dinner runs Thursday to Sunday with a full set of sides. Classic comfort dishes like meatloaf and chicken and dumplings come out well prepared.

People are saying

"The American food, especially the eggs Benedict, is incredibly filling."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers bottomless mimosas for $18.

2

It can get crowded during weekend brunch hours.

3

Tell the staff upon entering if you want to sit in the happy hour section.

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Modern, chic steakhouse with a live DJ creating a lively, fun atmosphere. The space includes a rooftop bar and a stylish, energetic vibe suited for celebrations rather than quiet dinners. Cocktails and steaks receive high praise, enhancing the overall experience.

Surf and turf features a lobster tail alongside filet mignon topped with truffle butter. Sides include Tater Tots that resemble mashed potato balls and truffle fries, plus lobster mac and cheese.

People are saying

"You have to try the steaks; they're cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs on weekdays from 2:30 to 6:30 pm with great deals.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy weekends.

3

Parking can be challenging during holidays due to downtown location.

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Older building with New Orleans vibe and tiny interior creates a cozy, lively atmosphere. Loud music and bar energy fill the space, especially near the bar area. Outdoor dog-friendly patio offers a relaxed spot for lunch or watching games on multiple TVs.

Po'boys like the beef and shrimp variety stand out, with flavors that rival New Orleans. The menu also features gumbo, jambalaya, and Cajun shrimp pasta, all consistently flavorful and well-prepared.

People are saying

"The jambalaya and poboy here are top notch."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour at NOLA on 5th is from 3 to 6 pm.

2

The food price range is from $8 to $26.

3

NOLA on 5th offers limited vegetarian options, mainly two salads at $14 each.

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Venue offers intimate concert spaces with excellent acoustics and live blues music creating a vibrant, energetic atmosphere. Spacious layout includes balcony and bar seating, allowing easy mingling and great stage views. Bar features craft cocktails and a variety of beers enhancing the lively experience.

Brisket sliders stand out with their tenderness and flavorful taste. Cornbread, shrimp and grits, fried chicken, and salmon also feature on the menu, offering a range of classic American dishes.

Good to know

1

Live karaoke night happens every Wednesday at 8pm with no cover charge.

2

Happy hour offers half-price drinks and appetizers from 5-7pm on weekdays.

3

Expect long lines for the bathroom in the balcony section during busy events.

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