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Guide to Kearny Mesa

Salad and dessert spots

Made for those who balance their desire for a light meal with an uncompromising need for a decadent finish.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Chaba Thai Kitchen image 1
Chaba Thai Kitchen image 2
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Thai restaurant

Modest Thai restaurant with laid-back atmosphere and somewhat dark lighting. Regulars frequent the spot, drawn by lunch specials and free desserts offered after meals. The space features simple decor with small paintings and tables for dine-in or takeout.

Salads here offer bold flavors and refreshing tastes. The crispy catfish salad stands out with its tangy and flavorful profile, while the beef and papaya salads deliver satisfying, fresh options.

Complimentary desserts often feature tapioca and coconut milk, creating rich, refreshing flavors. These treats sometimes include cantaloupe balls and ice cubes, served as a sweet surprise after meals.

People are saying

"I thought the Thai food here was the best I had ever tasted."

"They surprised me with a free, tasty dessert at the end."

"You have to try their crispy catfish salad; it's so flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking can be troublesome at times, especially during peak hours.

2

Lunch specials are available for $13.95, offering great value.

3

The restaurant offers a surprise dessert on weekends.

02
Itacho Sushi - All You Can Eat image 1

Spacious sushi restaurant with well spaced tables and large TV screens showing cultural and sports content. Atmosphere stays pleasant and chill with moderate music volume, supporting easy conversation. The vibe blends a modern, clean style with a fun anime theme, welcoming groups of all sizes.

Salads include squid salad with a chewy texture and noticeable saltiness, and a king mushroom salad that stands out among appetizers. Salads come as part of combos with appetizers, soup, rolls, and more.

Fried cheesecake stands out as a dessert option alongside a variety of desserts. Desserts come with lunch choices that include appetizers, soup, salad, rolls, sashimi, and ramen.

People are saying

"The bottomless sushi here is delicious and satisfying."

"The squid and king mushroom salads were delicious appetizers."

"You have to try the fried cheesecake for dessert; it's mind-blowing."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat option costs $30, offering a wide variety of sushi.

2

Lunch service does not include a menu on weekends or holidays.

3

Sushi orders come in full rolls of 8 pieces, providing good value.

03
formoosa image 1
Taiwanese restaurant

Small Taiwanese restaurant features a wrap-around bar with chic modern decor and classic 90s and 2000s hip hop music. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, with lively energy and good music. Seating focuses on bar spots, offering a unique view of food preparation and torch-lit bowls.

Cucumber salad appears regularly alongside dishes like beef wrap and pork noodles. It serves as a refreshing side that complements the main courses well.

Freshly made sesame balls serve as a great dessert option here. They offer a red bean sesame ball as a free dessert with reviews, making for a decent and satisfying finale.

People are saying

"The beef noodle soup here is so flavorful and the beef is tender."

"I found the food, especially the salad, to be delicious."

"You have to try the sesame ball dessert; it's the perfect finale."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday, 2-5 pm, with discounts on drinks and appetizers.

2

Most happy hour items are $1-3 off, making it a budget-friendly option.

3

Parking is available in a plaza lot, but payment is required.

04
The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill - San Diego, CA image 1

Greek restaurant offers a clean, spacious interior with cute furniture and large TV menu displays. Atmosphere combines loud Greek music with a strip mall energy, creating a lively but sometimes noisy environment. Seating is comfortable yet intimate, suitable for family or friends gatherings.

Greek salads stand out for their freshness and well balanced flavors. Options include chicken or beef add-ons, making them both delicious and satisfying.

Desserts include a dessert sampler and a dessert trio featuring baklava that is not too sweet. Rice pudding and baklava ice cream also appear as options.

People are saying

"The Greek food here is amazing, especially the flavorful lamb."

"The salads here are so fresh and crunchy."

"The dessert sampler, especially the baklava, was to die for."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a buy one get one free Gyro sandwich promotion on Tuesdays.

2

There is plenty of free parking available for customers.

3

The restaurant maintains a high standard of cleanliness throughout.

05
The Godfather image 1
Italian restaurant

Upscale Italian restaurant with old-school decor and dark wood paneling creates an intimate, cozy atmosphere. Live piano music adds a classic, elegant vibe that suits romantic dinners and special occasions. The setting feels authentic and transports diners with its traditional Italian heritage.

Caesar salad stands out with its outstanding dressing and beautiful preparation. Quality ingredients and generous size make it a favorite starter.

Tiramisu stands out as a very good dessert here. Prices stay reasonable even after adding drinks, appetizers, meals, and dessert.

People are saying

"The pasta dishes at these dinner spots are excellent."

"You have to try the tiramisu for dessert; it's the best."

"The Caesar salad here has outstanding dressing."

Good to know

1

Parking is difficult due to a very small lot, but valet service is available.

2

Prices are on the high end, with many dishes exceeding $50.

3

The restaurant will celebrate its 50th anniversary on 4/21/24.

06
Flama Llama image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Peruvian restaurant with authentic flavors and a lively, energetic design featuring hanging plants and an outdoor patio. Atmosphere is cozy with fantastic music enhancing the vibe. Popular for unique cocktails and well-balanced drinks alongside standout dishes like mojo fries and lomo saltado.

The salads stand out with the Peruvian Chopped Salad offering a refreshing taste and a little kick in the dressing. A creamy cilantro sauce enhances the side salad, and a cooked Peruvian salad with rice and plantains adds variety beyond the menu.

The churro dessert stands out as a seriously incredible choice. Free desserts add a nice touch, and the dessert menu offers diverse options worth exploring.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible, full of flavor and fresh."

"The Peruvian Chopped Salad is amazing and has a little kick."

"I thought the churro dessert was seriously incredible."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Reservations are not required but recommended during busy hours.

3

Expect a casual dress code; no formal attire needed.

07
The Butcher Shop image 1
Steak house

Steakhouse with old school Rat Pack style features red leather booths and a real fireplace creating a swanky, low-key vibe. The atmosphere is relaxed with 70s music playing and a bar known for classic cocktails. Spacious booths and preserved antique details add to the plush, vintage feel.

Chargrilled Caesar Salad offers juicy bites with a deconstructed presentation and fresh croutons. Garden salad comes with prime rib combos, providing a simple, fresh side.

Silky cream brรปlรฉe with a satisfying caramelized top stands out among desserts. Special occasions get personalized touches like a free cheesecake slice for birthdays and custom desserts for anniversaries.

People are saying

"The steaks here are always delicious and perfectly cooked."

"The steaks were cooked to perfection and quite delicious."

"The cream brรปlรฉe's silky texture was a dessert highlight."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4pm to 10pm with great food and drinks.

2

The B.A.G networking event occurs on the second Tuesday of every month.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy times like Valentine's Day.

08
Mic Drop Comedy image 1
Comedy club

Small venue with an Alice in Wonderland theme creates an intimate atmosphere where every seat feels close to the action. Professional improv keeps the crowd engaged and the energy fun without crossing lines. Full bar and kitchen offer creative cocktails and distinctive food alongside strong comedy acts.

Asian inspired dishes include salads that balance out the French fries. Burrata Salad stands out as a fresh, creamy option among the offerings.

Creative French toast dessert stands out alongside other yummy desserts. Fries also pair well with the sweet options.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and the staff is friendly."

"The staff here is super friendly and provides great service."

"I loved the creative and delicious French toast dessert."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available on site.

2

Mic Drop Comedy does not require a food or drink minimum.

3

Doors open at 9 PM, but seating may be delayed.

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Kearny Mesa, San Diego

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