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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Pacific Beach

American food with outdoor seating

You want to enjoy American food in the open air and will not compromise on the setting just to get a good meal.

Based on 838 Opinions
+835
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Updated April 2026
01
Madi Pacific Beach image 1
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Brunch restaurant

Bright, airy brunch spot with a beautiful patio and great views creates a casual, comfortable vibe. Huge portions and an amazing menu draw a crowd looking for flavorful, well-priced dishes. Mimosa selections stand out as a popular, higher-end choice.

Chicken fried steak comes with awesome gravy. Grilled cheese rates 4 out of 5.

Patio seating offers a beautiful and festive atmosphere with seasonal decor. Both indoor and outdoor options are available for dining.

People are saying

"Our server Caroline was so sweet and attentive during Brunch."

"The chicken fried steak and gravy here are awesome."

"Our server Caroline was great at the outdoor seating."

Good to know

1

Parking is free in the lot on the storefront side, but costs $24 on the other side.

2

A 20% gratuity is included in the bill for large parties.

3

Indoor and outdoor seating options are available.

02
Bayside Landing image 1

Gastropub with open indoor-outdoor seating and a dog-friendly patio creates a lively, vibrant atmosphere. Multiple large TVs and a strong focus on sports make it a hub for game watching. The energy is high and the space feels spacious and modern with a funky decor style.

Mac and cheese stands out with rich, creamy texture. Chicken wings come out perfectly cooked and flavorful.

Open area with pet-friendly outdoor seating stands out, attracting dog owners. Back patio suits large groups with kids, offering a mix of indoor and outdoor options.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great and well priced."

"The outdoor seating is perfect for dining al fresco with your pup."

"The American food here is great for families with pups."

Good to know

1

Trivia night starts after 7 PM on Wednesdays.

2

UFC fights are always on during Saturdays.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-7 PM on weekdays with discounted drinks.

03
Woody's Breakfast And Burgers image 1

Cafe overlooks ocean and boardwalk with breathtaking views and laid back outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels cozy and lively, enhanced by great music and a dog-friendly vibe. Popular spot for watching waves and people, especially from the upstairs patio.

Burgers come simple with just bun, meat, and cheese, missing usual toppings like lettuce and mayo. Chips have a crispy Cajun seasoning. Turkey club sandwich tends to be a bit dry.

Outdoor seating offers great views of the beach and ocean. An upstairs patio overlooks the boardwalk where people and characters pass by.

People are saying

"The breakfast burritos here are amazing."

"I loved the outdoor seating with amazing ocean views."

"The American food, especially the breakfast burritos, has always been amazing."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during weekend brunch, especially on sunny days.

2

Parking is limited; arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Bottomless mimosas are available on weekends for brunch.

04
Earlybird Breakfast Burritos - Pacific Beach image 1

Outdoor seating with shaded umbrellas creates a relaxing atmosphere enhanced by great music. The space fills with people enjoying delicious breakfast burritos near the water, making it a popular spot before heading to the beach.

Burritos come loaded with guacamole, sour cream, and crispy tater tots inside. Melted cheese adds richness, and the Bacon Bird balances crunchy tater tots with eggs and guacamole well.

Outside seating offers a relaxing atmosphere with a quiet vibe ideal for mornings. The space feels calm and suits casual dining well.

People are saying

"The breakfast burritos here are amazing and delicious."

"The burritos here are delicious, hearty, and substantial in size."

"I found the breakfast burritos exceptional and highly recommend them."

Good to know

1

They do not accept cash, only credit cards and mobile payments.

2

They open at 7am-12pm on Sunday to Thursday and 7am-2pm on Friday and Saturday.

3

Parking can be a little confusing in the back, but there are plenty of spaces.

05
Rocky's Crown Pub image 1

Small bar with old school charm and weathered walls creates a friendly neighborhood vibe. Multiple TVs show sports, and seating includes both indoor and outdoor areas. Cash-only policy supports a classic beach atmosphere with cold beer and highly rated burgers.

Cheeseburgers cooked to perfection stand out here, especially the half-pound option. Fries come freshly fried, complementing the classic American burger and fries combo served consistently well.

Some outside seating exists, useful during busy times. The outdoor area has a cozy feel with string lights, making it nice to enjoy drinks and food in good weather.

People are saying

"I thought their burgers were the best, juicy, and well-cooked."

"I thought the American Food here, the burgers, were the best."

"I loved sitting outside; it was great during the day."

Good to know

1

Rocky's Crown Pub only accepts cash payments; an ATM is available on site.

2

The pub is strictly for customers aged 21 and over; no kids allowed.

3

Parking is limited, so be prepared to walk a bit.

06
The Crack Shack - Pacific Beach image 1

Covered outdoor seating with dog-friendly patio and lawn games creates a lively, chill vibe with old school music and an obstructed ocean view. Indoor space is limited but includes a nice bar and TVs for catching games. Atmosphere balances fun and relaxation, making it a distinct spot for enjoying chicken sandwiches by the beach.

Fried chicken sandwiches come with large portions and tasty pickles. The "Coop Deville" sandwich includes all the fixings and stands out for its flavor.

Sunlit patio sits right by the beach with a dog-friendly area. Outdoor space offers a fun vibe and includes games for kids.

People are saying

"You've got to try the mini biscuits with miso or honey butter."

"This American food, the fried chicken sandwich, is so juicy and crispy."

"The chicken sandwich and seasoned fries here are the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm daily with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The restaurant has a dog-friendly patio for outdoor seating.

3

Parking is available in the lot and on the street nearby.

07
Big Jim's Roast Beef image 1

Small sandwich shop with outdoor sidewalk seating creates a homey, simple atmosphere. Energy stays relaxed with kind staff and a hole-in-the-wall vibe. Popular for high-quality roast beef sandwiches that draw fans of East Coast style subs.

Grilled cheese pairs with tomato bisque for a classic combo. Subs like buffalo chicken and Philly cheesesteak offer hearty, satisfying options.

People are saying

"These onion rings are crispy and delicious."

"The roast beef sandwich here is the best I've ever had."

"I had the best roast beef sandwich, it was wicked awesome."

Good to know

1

There is no indoor seating; all seating is outside on the sidewalk.

2

Parking in Pacific Beach can be difficult, so plan accordingly.

3

Expect large portions for the price, making it a good value.

08
Lahaina Beach House image 1

Oceanfront bar and grill offers stunning beach views and a chill vibe with good music. The atmosphere ranges from relaxed daytime to noisy evenings. Popular for breakfast burritos and fish tacos, it draws a lively crowd enjoying affordable drinks by the sea.

Golden brown patty melts feature hand-pressed patties, grilled red onions, and melty cheese. The hamburger and fry special offers a classic combo with solid flavors.

The patio offers beautiful views and a lively atmosphere with plenty of seating. The outside deck is casual and great for enjoying a beer while watching the sunset and people.

People are saying

"It's a fun beach bar with cold beer and great music."

"The outdoor seating has world-class oceanfront views."

"The American Food here is great, and Tim makes the experience enjoyable."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited near the beach, so arrive early.

2

The bar opens at 9am for breakfast on weekends.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere throughout the day.

09
Baja Beach Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Beachfront setting offers magnificent ocean views and a laid-back vibe with outdoor heaters and dog-friendly patio. Music spans from 80's to early 2000's, creating a relaxed atmosphere. The spot draws people who enjoy sitting by the sea while sipping margaritas and enjoying casual Mexican fare.

Lobster mac and cheese stands out as a memorable dish. The menu offers a bread bowl of clam chowder or chili for under nine dollars. The queso dip serves as a tasty alternative to nachos and beans.

Outdoor seating offers a lovely patio right by the beach with heaters for warmth. The setting features great views of the waves and sunset, paired with a fun bar vibe and good food.

People are saying

"The outdoor patio is awesome, right on the beach."

"The outdoor seating offers a great view of the ocean and people watching."

"The American food here, especially the prime rib sandwich, is delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7 PM on weekdays with 2 for 1 drink specials.

2

Enjoy buy one get one free cocktails until 7 PM during happy hour.

3

Expect a service fee of 3.9% on your bill.

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Pacific Beach, San Diego

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