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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Kearny Mesa's best

Salads and food

A substantial meal built around fresh greens provides the balance needed to get through the afternoon.

Based on 665 Opinions
+662
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01
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Japanese Italian fusion defines the menu, offering unique dishes like eel pizza and squid ink pasta in a small, cozy space with quiet, relaxed atmosphere. Seating includes 2-4 person tables and a few bar seats, accommodating small groups comfortably. The place stays unbusy, allowing easy seating without long waits.

Lunch combos come with a small house salad paired with soup and a drink. Salads serve as a fresh side alongside dishes like cabbage wrapped meatballs and burger steak.

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

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

"The lunch combo included a salad and soup, offering good value."

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.

02
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Small, family-owned seafood grill with hand-crafted furnishings and a fast casual setup where orders go at the counter. Atmosphere stays relaxing and friendly with a fun music selection and quiet pace. The place draws steady crowds despite its unassuming, modern storefront.

Seared Ahi Tuna Salad features a generous amount of Ahi and offers a great portion size. Grilled chicken salads here stand out for their freshness and flavor compared to other spots.

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

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and everyone agreed."

"I thought the grilled chicken salad here was the freshest and best tasting."

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.

03
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Deli inside a liquor store offers indoor picnic-style seating and a warm, pleasant atmosphere. Sandwiches feature generous meat portions and fresh ingredients, with daily specials available. Parking can be tricky and limited in the surrounding area.

Salads come fresh and pair well with sandwiches and fruit. Daily specials include a variety of fresh salads and fruit options.

Food comes out freshly made and authentic homemade style. Portions are very filling and consistently delicious.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and freshly made."

"I found the salads to be amazingly fresh."

Good to know

1

They have a parking lot, but neighborhood parking can be tricky.

2

The deli is located inside a liquor store, offering a variety of snacks.

3

Expect daily specials, sandwiches, salads, fruit, and drinks.

04
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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.

Food comes out fresh and hot with authentic Thai flavors that lean spicy. Dishes like Nam Tok and Larb stand out, and the menu suits both sit-down and takeout with quick service.

People are saying

"The Thai food here is incredible and so tasty."

"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.

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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.

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 food here is delicious and perfectly balanced."

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

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.

06
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Simple, pretty interior with tropical decor and decorative plants creates an intimate, peaceful atmosphere. Lighting is a bit dark and space can feel stuffy, but the vibe stays casual and relaxing. Staff offer friendly, personalized touches like complimentary photos with rose flowers.

Papaya salad stands out with its sweet-sour, spicy, and funky flavors. Nam khao tod and beef salad also offer distinct tastes alongside traditional options like som tum and Laos sausages.

Food here is consistently packed with flavor and perfectly balanced. Dishes like the Drunken Noodles with Tofu stand out for their delicious taste and fresh approach.

People are saying

"The food here is packed with flavor and perfectly balanced."

"The boat noodles had a flavorful, thick black broth."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger parties to ensure seating.

2

Expect wait times of 30-60 minutes during peak dinner hours.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early or using rideshare.

07
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Mexican restaurant with an open, comfortable layout and beachy motifs creates a casual, relaxed vibe. The atmosphere stays active and welcoming, making it suitable for quick, affordable meals. Fish tacos stand out as a signature dish enjoyed by many.

Seafood shines in the salads with options like shrimp chopped and rainbow shrimp salads. The street corn salad adds a fresh twist alongside other dishes.

Food comes out fresh and made-to-order with great quality and good value. Meals arrive hot and ready quickly, matching the quality found at many Mexican spots.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great and satisfying."

"I had one of the best shrimp chopped salads ever."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers $2 original fish tacos all day.

2

Parking is ample and free at this location.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean dining area and restrooms.

08
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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.

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 staff here is super friendly and provides great service."

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.

09
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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.

Food features excellent quality and remains consistent even after ownership changes. The menu includes delicious dishes paired well with wine and appetizers, supported by attentive service.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and exceeded my expectations."

"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.

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Indoor and outdoor seating includes a dog-friendly patio and an open kitchen where food preparation is visible. Atmosphere feels cozy and traditional with quiet energy and friendly, quick service. Menu offers inexpensive, filling Japanese meals with a variety of bentos, sushi, and rolls.

Salads come with a variety of dishes, often including green salad and seafood salad. Dressings have a good flavor but the salad portion is sometimes easy to overlook on the plate.

Food offers consistent quality with really tasty dishes that have stayed reliable despite ownership changes. Meals come at prices similar to fast food but provide a more substantial experience.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and delicious."

"The salad sauce was good, and it came with lots of other things."

Good to know

1

The lunch and dinner specials offer excellent deals for budget-conscious diners.

2

You must order and pay at the counter before receiving your food.

3

Parking is ample, but allow extra time to find a spot during busy hours.

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Charcoal grills create a smoky, vibrant atmosphere in a small, cozy space with tables close together. The place fills quickly, leading to long waits and a lively, bustling vibe. Strong smoke and limited ventilation add to the intense grilling experience.

Mouthwatering Korean barbecue offers rich flavors and an inviting atmosphere. Food quality is consistently excellent, making the wait worthwhile.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, tender, and juicy."

"The cucumber salad here is so good, I ordered more."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times of 1-2 hours during peak hours on weekends.

2

Parking can be difficult to find, especially during busy times.

3

Reservations are not accepted; arrive early to avoid long lines.

12
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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.

Food comes out cooked to perfection with phenomenal flavors. Service stays top notch from start to finish, making every meal smooth and enjoyable.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the prime rib and oysters."

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

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.

13
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Spacious Italian restaurant with full bar and comfortable outdoor patio that welcomes dogs. Atmosphere feels less lively without traditional wine bottle decor, offering a quiet, relaxed vibe. Tables and booths are well spaced, making it suitable for large groups and families.

Salads come in small antipasto and Caesar styles. Lunch specials include a salad paired with spaghetti for under $10.

Food here is consistently excellent and delicious with a reputation for being spectacular every time.

People are saying

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

"The antipasto salad dressing tasted better at Little Italy."

Good to know

1

The lunch special costs $9.60 and includes soup or salad and bread.

2

Filippi's offers a $32 family meal on Sundays, perfect for large groups.

3

Parking is easy with many spots available right off the 163.

14
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Small family-run restaurant offers authentic Laotian dishes with large portions and a friendly, professional atmosphere. Music from past decades plays softly, creating a welcoming vibe with both indoor and outdoor seating. Popularity leads to a fast-paced environment where some menu items may be unavailable.

Lao style papaya salad stands out here, paired often with sticky rice and Laos sausage. The beef salad delivers a sabai-inducing flavor, and the Thai style papaya salad complements the beef and sausage well.

Food offers authentic home-style Lao flavors that are both fresh and satisfying. Dishes arrive quickly, look appealing, and leave no feeling of heaviness or guilt.

People are saying

"This food's crispy pork belly is thin cut with outstanding flavor."

"The Lao style papaya salad is authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is plentiful in the plaza, making it easy to visit.

2

Expect high spice levels; when they say spicy, they mean SPICY.

3

Portions are large for the price, with 8 sausages for $13.

15
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Japanese curry restaurant offers cozy, inviting atmosphere that closely resembles locations in Japan, with franchise-style seating including a bar for single diners. The space feels cramped during busy times but maintains a clean, well-maintained interior that helps guests forget the outside surroundings.

Salads include corn salad and green salad, with some like papaya and corn salads containing crab. The salads can be underrated and sometimes orders may not match what arrives.

Food here delivers consistently good and top-notch flavor curries that warm the soul. The dishes match the quality found in Japan, making the wait during rush hour worthwhile.

People are saying

"This food reminds me of Japan and good times."

"I found the curry here to be really good."

Good to know

1

Expect a 45-minute wait time during peak lunch hours.

2

Parking can be a challenge due to limited space in the shopping complex.

3

Reservations are not accepted, so arrive early to avoid long lines.

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Old-fashioned Chinese buffet with spacious seating and a huge salad bar. Atmosphere stays calm and quiet despite occasional loud chatter. Regularly plays Taylor Swift music, adding a unique touch to the dining experience.

Cold bar and salad bar offer solid options for vegetarian dinners. Salads include a killer ambrosia salad and a notable seafood salad that stand out.

Food comes out fresh and hot with counters always well stocked. The assortment offers a fantastic variety and consistently good quality.

People are saying

"The food here is pretty great, especially the apple pie."

"The salad bar was huge with lots of great options."

Good to know

1

Cooked oysters are available only during Friday, Saturday, and Sunday dinner hours.

2

The all-you-can-eat buffet costs $20 per person.

3

There are no drink dispensers; drinks must be ordered separately.

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