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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Kearny Mesa's best

Food spots

Hunger hits at the most inconvenient times, and a solid meal is the only remedy.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Pho Nom image 1
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Pho restaurant

Modern decor with cozy lanterns sets a dreamlike mood. Food is consistently delicious and service is solid. Chill music and authentic design create a relaxed dining vibe.

Food stands out for being consistently delicious and on point. Service complements the meals well, creating a solid overall dining experience.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and fresh."

"I had the best pho I've ever experienced."

"It's so cozy and relaxing with pretty, upbeat decor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2–5 PM with a variety of drinks at good prices.

2

Parking can be tough, especially at night due to nearby attractions.

3

Pho Nom closes late at 10:30 PM, perfect for late-night cravings.

02
Flama Llama image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Peruvian flavors shine with authentic dishes like lomo saltado and mojo fries. Cozy vibe with hanging plants and an outdoor patio creates a lively setting. Unique cocktails and well-balanced drinks pair perfectly with fantastic music.

Food here matches authentic Peruvian cuisine with amazing quality and great service. The dishes deliver a taste comparable to what you'd find in Lima, Peru.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the chili wontons; they're perfectly balanced."

"The Thai tea flan was a creative variation and very fluffy."

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.

03
DalBam Moon Night image 1
Korean restaurant

Small indoor spot with authentic Korean food and fun K-pop videos sets a lively mood. Cozy yet vibrant, it shines with excellent bar food and a lively crowd late at night. Dimmed lights add to the atmosphere, perfect for late-night drinks.

Late night Korean food offers authentic flavors and excellent cuisine options. The menu features tasty bar food ideal for pairing with drinks.

People are saying

"I found the Korean food here to be amazing, especially the bulgogi."

"It felt so homey and cozy here."

"The Korean food here is amazing and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking in this plaza can be tough, so arrive early.

2

Make a reservation to secure a table, especially on busy nights.

3

The restaurant is open until 1am, ideal for late-night dining.

04
Mic Drop Comedy image 1
Comedy club

Small venue with an Alice in Wonderland theme offers an intimate setting where professional improv keeps energy high. Creative cocktails and distinctive food pair well with comedy. No food or drink minimum adds flexibility for a relaxed night out.

Good food pairs with drinks and comedy in a relaxed setting. No food or drink minimum adds flexibility to dining out here.

People are saying

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

"The nightlife here is amazing with hilarious comedians."

"The parking here is easy to find and there's plenty of it."

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.

05
Angry Petes Pizza Kearny Mesa image 1

Detroit-style pizza and birria tacos shine alongside smash burgers and hot wings. Retro arcade games and board games create a quirky, family-friendly vibe. A drive-through in a refurbished 90s Taco Bell building makes grabbing food easy and fun.

Food includes Detroit style pizza, smash burger, and birria tacos. Dishes like wings, Mac 'n cheese, and bar food arrive hot and fresh with many toppings.

People are saying

"I thought their Detroit Style Pizza offered a taste of Detroit."

"The decor and food give it a nostalgic Midwest vibe."

"The pizza and coney dogs here are insane."

Good to know

1

Angry Hour runs from 3 to 6 pm with $5 draft beers.

2

Happy hour offers a slice of pizza and a beer for $11.

3

Trivia night is held weekly and is engaging for guests.

06
Monsta Ramen Curry image 1
Asian restaurant

Bright, clean space with Studio Ghibli-like ambiance offers a cozy, quiet vibe. Enjoy affordable curry dishes with generous portions and home-style Japanese flavor. Relaxing music adds to the warm, casual atmosphere.

Affordable prices between $10 and $15 pair with delicious curry dishes and skewers. Portions stay generous while the food keeps a home-style Japanese flavor.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the ramen, is delicious and affordable."

"The pork cutlet curry rice was delicious, with a savory and sweet gravy."

"I thought the food here was delicious and tasted fresh."

Good to know

1

They had specials for the opening, including $10 tonkotsu ramen.

2

During happy hour, Monsta Ramen Curry offered $3 beers.

3

The restaurant offers the option to order with the server or scan a QR code to order online for a discounted price on certain items.

07
SOT BBQ image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Spacious Korean barbecue offers cast-iron cauldron grills and a modern wood design. Guests enjoy high-quality meats with rich flavor and tender texture. Vibrant atmosphere with loud music creates a casual dining experience.

High-quality meats stand out with rich flavor and tender texture. Attentive service includes options to cook your own food or have it prepared, complemented by flavorful sauces that enhance each dish.

People are saying

"I tasted the best Korean barbecue I have ever had."

"The Waygu Sampler Plate was delicious and melt-in-your-mouth."

"The Waygu food here is delicious and melt-in-your-mouth."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but arriving early is recommended to avoid long waits.

2

Parking can be difficult, but arriving early increases your chances of finding a spot.

3

The restaurant is not an all-you-can-eat option; meals are priced per item.

08
Bistro Kaz image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese Italian fusion shines with eel pizza and squid ink pasta in a cozy, quiet space. Warm, filling dishes offer Japanese comfort food that feels light and satisfying. Small tables and bar seats make it easy to relax without waits.

Japanese comfort food offers warm, filling dishes that avoid feeling heavy. The menu focuses on delicious, comforting flavors that stand apart from typical American fare.

People are saying

"You have to try the cod roe pasta; it's my favorite."

"The Seafood Doria was amazing, so rich and full of crab."

"The food here is delicate, tasty, and absolutely exquisite."

Good to know

1

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

2

The lunch combo includes a main dish, salad, soup, and a drink for good value.

3

Expect a unique menu with both Japanese and Italian fusion dishes.

09
Champs Korean Bbq image 1
Korean restaurant

Stone flat grills offer low-smoke cooking with even heat. Food comes fast and tastes great, featuring fantastic sides at fair prices. Spacious dining stays quiet and comfortable with cool lighting and clean decor.

Food arrives quickly with delicious flavors and reasonable prices. The menu includes fantastic sides, and the dining area feels comfortable without smoke or crowding.

People are saying

"The Korean Bbq here is delicious and the meat is high quality."

"The stone slab grill for the Bulgogi retained heat well and was easy to clean."

"The food here is delicious, especially the tender, flavorful meat."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat menu has a 2-hour time limit.

2

Happy hour runs after 9 pm during the week.

3

Parking can be difficult; expect to circle for a spot.

10
formoosa image 1
Taiwanese restaurant

Small Taiwanese spot offers authentic flavors and friendly service. Chic modern decor and a wrap-around bar create a warm atmosphere. Classic 90s and 2000s hip hop adds lively energy to the dining experience.

Authentic Taiwanese cuisine shines with delicious flavors and great variety. Service stands out as friendly and attentive, enhancing the overall dining experience.

People are saying

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

"I found the handcrafted cocktails to be amazing and delicious."

"The food here is delicious and perfectly balanced."

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.

11
Adrian's Surf n' Turf Grill image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small, family-owned seafood grill offers excellent quality meals with fine dining presentation at reasonable prices. The fast casual setup keeps service quick while a relaxing atmosphere with fun music makes dining enjoyable. Steady crowds show its strong local appeal.

Food features excellent quality and perfect preparation with fine dining presentation. Meals are delicious and reasonably priced.

People are saying

"The fish and chips here are awesome and the chips are crispy."

"I ordered the steak and it was perfectly cooked."

"The food here was delicious and everyone agreed."

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not have a bathroom, so plan accordingly before visiting.

2

Expect higher prices on the menu, with items averaging at least $4 more than expected.

3

Parking is ample and available near the restaurant.

12
Tigris Mediterranean Grille image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Bright sunlight and an 80s and 90s playlist create a peaceful vibe. Halal Mediterranean dishes offer authentic flavors with generous portions. Staff ensure meals are fresh and hot, making the space feel inviting and chill.

Mediterranean and Greek dishes stand out for their authentic flavors and consistent quality. Staff often go beyond by remaking meals to ensure food is served hot and fresh.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here is served with such welcoming hospitality."

"This Lunch Spot's chicken kabob is tender, juicy, and perfectly charred."

"The food here is delicious and always fresh."

Good to know

1

Everything at Tigris Mediterranean Grille is halal.

2

Portions are generous, with one platter easily serving two people.

3

The prices at Tigris Mediterranean Grille are fair considering the portion size and quality.

13
Gualberto's 2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot serves large portions of fresh, tasty dishes at great prices. Flavorful carne asada and spicy red salsa stand out. Lunch hours get crowded with limited parking nearby.

Food comes fresh and in big portions at very reasonable prices. Meals offer great quality and satisfy both breakfast and lunch cravings with delicious Mexican dishes.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and a great value."

"I had the best breakfast burrito I've ever tasted here."

"The fish tacos here are huge and taste so fresh."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tight during dinner hours; consider street parking or back lot.

2

Prices are affordable, with large portions offered at a fair price.

3

They serve breakfast all day, making it a versatile dining option.

14
ME SEN Thai Noodle Shop image 1

Small, cozy spot inside a supermarket serves authentic Thai flavors with unique dishes beyond pad thai. Warm, casual décor and high ceilings create a lively yet manageable noise level. Experience a local Bangkok noodle shop vibe with many Thai speakers and bustling energy.

Food here delivers authentic Thai flavors made with heart and tradition. The menu offers unique dishes beyond pad thai, with soups that feel as rich as truffles or caviar.

People are saying

"The rich, savory broth in the noodle soup is incredible."

"These authentic Thai boat noodles are a flavorful hidden gem."

"The boat noodles here are packed with amazing flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult to find near the restaurant.

2

The restaurant can get crowded during peak hours.

3

There is no restroom in the grocery store, so plan accordingly.

15
Spicy Noodle image 1
Chinese restaurant

Cozy spot with vivid murals sets a relaxing mood. Noodles shine with out of this world broth and perfect spice. Free WiFi and comfy seats make it great for casual meals and group hangouts.

Food offers great flavor and is very filling. Noodle soup features an out of this world broth with the right level of spice for comfort food.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and packed with savory spice."

"The beef noodle soup is fresh, clean, and delicious."

"Parking can be tight during peak hours, so plan ahead."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tight during peak hours, so plan accordingly.

2

The menu features Chongqing-style noodles with several combo options.

3

Portions are generous and prices are reasonable.

16
Domo Kitchen image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small interior with dim lighting creates a warm vibe. Food bursts with exceptional flavor and generous portions. Easy-going atmosphere suits families despite cluttered seating and limited space.

Food bursts with flavor and offers incredible quality and quantity. The dishes stand out for their exceptional deliciousness and consistent taste.

People are saying

"The sushi here is fresh, delicious, and super-sized."

"The lunch spot food is delicious, with amazing quality and taste."

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

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult at lunch.

2

Customers must order their food first and then find a seat.

3

Dinner portions are standard 16oz takeout cartons with rice.

17
Yuk Dae Jang San Diego / 육대장 샌디에고 image 1

Korean restaurant offers spicy beef soup and bossam as comfort food with good portions. Clean, modern interior plays K-pop videos creating a lively vibe. Tables close together make it great for casual dinners and catching up with friends.

Spicy beef soup, dumplings, and bossam stand out as comfort food dishes here. Portions come good-sized and the food stays properly Korean and delicious.

People are saying

"The Yuk Gae Jang soup has a warm, comforting, and flavorful broth."

"The Korean Food's bossam was thinly sliced and artfully arranged."

"The food here is delicious, with rich broth and tender meat."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; the restaurant uses a paper waitlist only.

2

Expect long wait times on weekend nights, often exceeding 40 minutes.

3

Parking is plentiful and free, making access easy for visitors.

18
Sandwich Stop Deli image 1
Sandwich shop

Small sandwich shop in an industrial area serves a busy breakfast crowd with fresh bread and bold flavors. Staff deliver meals with care, keeping the dining area clean and welcoming for families.

Food offers a huge variety with consistently flavorful and delicious options. Staff deliver meals with care, and the dining area stays clean.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches here were great and delicious."

"The breakfast sandwiches here have a perfect flavor balance."

"I thought the food here was amazing."

Good to know

1

They stop serving breakfast at 11am.

2

Sandwich Stop Deli closes at 3:00 PM.

3

Parking is easy and available near the deli.

19
YGF Malatang image 1
Self service restaurant

Self-service setup offers wide ingredient selection with fresh meats and vegetables. Broth options include flavorful bone and tomato soups with adjustable spiciness. Quick service and clean setting make it great for families, with tasty food and milk tea appealing to all ages.

Food here is consistently fresh and tasty, with quick service in a clean setting. Milk tea and dishes appeal to both kids and adults.

People are saying

"I found the soup base really, really good and flavorful."

"I found the food here really good and tasty."

"The beef bone broth is tasty and easy to enjoy."

Good to know

1

They offer a wide variety of ingredients to choose from.

2

The spicy level is adjustable and can be made very spicy.

3

There are many options for mixing and matching, allowing customization of meals.

20
Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House image 1
Self service restaurant

Enjoy all-you-can-eat wagyu hot pot with fresh seafood in a modern, Instagrammable setting. Prices offer great value for quality food. Efficient service keeps wait times low in a calm, welcoming space.

Food here is consistently fresh and delicious with a clean taste. Prices offer good value for the quality served.

People are saying

"The Wagyu here melts like butter, it's the best."

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and a great value."

"The seafood here is super fresh, especially the sashimi."

Good to know

1

The place is open until 10 pm.

2

You can order three items at a time with refills every eight minutes.

3

They offer all-you-can-eat wagyu hot pot with three tiers of pricing.

21
Finjan Coffee Shop Co. image 1

Enjoy authentic coffee brewed with a traditional sand bath method and delicious Egyptian food in a warm, cozy space. Elegant Turkish decor and subtle reggae music create a unique vibe. Outdoor seating adds a relaxed atmosphere distinct from typical cafes.

Offers authentic coffee and delicious Egyptian food with a friendly atmosphere. A nearby restaurant adds more food options that are also tasty.

People are saying

"I loved the Turkish coffee and walnut baklawa."

"I highly recommend the orange latte; it's my favorite."

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

There is abundant free parking available in a lot.

2

The coffee shop offers unique coffee options.

3

Seating is sufficient for small meetings.

22
Cali's & Fries image 1
Mexican restaurant

Minimalist taco shop offers authentic California burritos with big portions and quick service. Enjoy a self-serve salsa bar and free hot carrots in a clean, comfy atmosphere that stays open late.

Food here is freshly made with big portions that offer solid value. The dishes are consistently tasty and the service is quick, usually around six minutes from order to plate.

People are saying

"The salsa bar has awesome, tasty salsas and spicy carrots and jalapenos."

"The carne asada fries here are amazing and crispy."

"I found the food here to be really good and fresh."

Good to know

1

$2 taco Tuesdays offer a budget-friendly option for visitors.

2

Cali's & Fries has plenty of parking available in front.

3

The restaurant is known for its clean bathrooms.

23
Harmony Cuisine 2B1 image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot shines with fresh ingredients and authentic taste that rivals Japan's mom and pop shops. Intimate setting features a central sushi bar and cozy lighting for a warm vibe. Notable sake selection rounds out the elevated casual experience.

Food features fresh ingredients and melt-in-my-mouth sushi that matches the quality of local Japanese shops. The dishes offer a fabulous, authentic taste reminiscent of mom and pop sushi places in Japan.

People are saying

"The fish here is so fresh and melts in your mouth."

"The Panna Cotta here is so fresh and wonderful."

"You have to try the nigiri; it's seasoned to perfection."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to the busy location with a parking lot that fills up quickly.

2

The restaurant has limited table seating but plenty of counter seating available.

3

Parking can be challenging due to multiple restaurants in the plaza.

24
Ju-ichi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, intimate spot offers upscale sushi with a weekly changing menu of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Lively yet cozy vibe suits romantic evenings and special occasions. Bar seating lets you enjoy a chef's show and sake pairings enhance the exquisite flavors.

Food features incredibly fresh sushi, beautiful presentation, and bursting flavors. Quality and taste stand out as exquisite and immaculate.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is outstanding, especially the fresh sushi and creative rolls."

"The seafood here is so fresh, it just melts in your mouth."

"The food here is incredibly fresh and bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations for the omakase should be made two weeks in advance.

2

The tasting menu is available on Sundays with only 11 seats per session.

3

Sessions for the tasting menu start at 5 pm and 7:30 pm.

25
Shabu Shabu house image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant serves all-you-can-eat hot pot with broths like spicy miso and sukiyaki. Food bursts with flavor, featuring fresh, authentic dishes like Tom Yum. Cozy, quiet atmosphere suits small groups, with a warm vibe from the solo owner.

Food offers an explosion of flavors with dishes like Tom Yum standing out. Meals are fresh, authentic, and healthy, often light yet filling and easy to cook.

People are saying

"This food is simple, cheap, and delicious."

"I thought the shabu shabu here was the best in San Diego."

Good to know

1

All-you-can-eat options provide a great deal for those who love hot pot.

2

The restaurant has a unique experience where diners cook their own food at the table.

3

Prices have increased recently, but the value remains high for the quality offered.

26
Zhangliang Malatang image 1
Asian restaurant

Asian spot serves authentic Malatang with rich broths and adjustable spice. Food stays fresh and flavorful, matching China’s taste. Space is cramped but clean, creating a chill atmosphere that fills up with a lively crowd.

Food here is consistently fresh and flavorful, with a perfect level of spiciness. Quality and price balance well, making the dishes taste just like in China.

People are saying

"The classic spicy bone broth soup is flavorful and delicious."

"This Chinese food is perfect for anyone who loves a bit of heat."

"The food here is so fresh and tastes great."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times after 6:30 pm, especially on busy nights.

2

The price is $13.99 per pound for ingredients, with extra charges for soup base.

3

Payment is made at the end of the meal, which may confuse first-time visitors.

27
Karami Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small ramen spot offers authentic Japanese decor and a cozy atmosphere that feels like a private pocket of Japan. Dishes serve authentic flavors with generous portions and original recipes. Soft background music adds to the relaxing vibe for a genuine experience.

Food features authentic Japanese flavors with deliciously warm dishes and generous portions. Quality impresses with original recipes and satisfying upgrades for more ramen.

People are saying

"The ramen here has a rich, flavorful broth."

"The ramen here tastes so authentic and traditional."

"The ramen here is so delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Karami Ramen has a robust menu that offers something for everyone.

2

They offer a chicken-based broth for those who don't eat pork.

3

Karami Ramen has vegan options.

28
Mercury Village Shopping Center image 1

Strip mall feels like a living room with a calm vibe. Authentic Chinese and Vietnamese dishes shine alongside Three Brothers Mexican and Thai food. Parking is convenient but limited, with easy weekend access.

Chinese and Vietnamese dishes stand out with authentic flavors. Three Brothers Mexican and the Thai restaurant offer consistently great food across their menus.

People are saying

"Parking available here is limited; I had to walk."

"I found the restaurant options to be lovely."

Good to know

1

Parking is usually available on weekends around lunch time.

2

The restaurants can be crowded, leading to wait times.

3

There is a matcha place and a Japanese-style cake shop.

29
The Taco Stand image 1
Taco restaurant

Space is extremely narrow with limited seating, creating a crowded, lively atmosphere filled with Mexican music. Food shines with fresh, authentic flavors, especially the tacos that many order more than once. Guests enjoy watching homemade tortillas and a serve-yourself salsa bar.

Food stands out for its freshness and authentic Mexican flavors. Tacos are especially popular, with many ordering more due to the delicious taste.

People are saying

"These tacos are worth the wait; they're the best in San Diego."

"You must try the California burrito; it's excellent."

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

Good to know

1

The Taco Stand operates as an order-and-go type place with no seating available.

2

Parking can be challenging at The Taco Stand.

3

I recommend ordering ahead because they get busy.

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Kearny Mesa, San Diego

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