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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Sorrento Mesa

Authentic spots

An authentic meal that stays true to its roots, instead of being watered down for a broader audience.

Based on 592 Opinions
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01
Sue’s Korean Kitchen image 1
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Small Korean spot offers authentic spices and home-cooked vibe with peaceful courtyard sounds. Outdoor seating with umbrellas adds charm. Staff speak Korean, boosting the genuine feel.

Flavors stay true to traditional Korean cooking with authentic spices and immaculate preparation. The dishes deliver a deliciously genuine taste throughout.

People are saying

"I found the Korean food to be delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

There is no indoor seating; all meals are takeout only.

2

Outdoor seating is available in the courtyard for dining.

3

The menu features traditional Korean dishes like Gimbap and stews.

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Restaurant blends quiet atmosphere with authentic Thai flavors like Pad Siew and Khao Moo Daeng. Retro art and skateboard accents add charm. Indoor and outdoor seating create a warm vibe perfect for enjoying unique dishes.

Dishes like Pad Siew and Khao Moo Daeng show strong authentic Thai flavors. The menu includes hard-to-find classics like Khao Kha Moo and Khao Man Gai.

People are saying

"I found authentic Thai dishes here that are hard to find elsewhere."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for busy lunch hours to avoid long waits.

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The restaurant operates on limited hours, typically 9am to 5pm, closed on weekends.

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Cash or Zelle is required for orders under $5.

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Dosa Studio Indian Restaurant & Catering image 1
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Small South Indian spot shines with authentic dosas and a self-serve chutney bar. Atmosphere shifts from lively comfort to chaotic, with mixed cleanliness. Spacious sit-out area adds to the experience.

South Indian food here has authentic flavors that match those found in India. The vegetarian dosas stand out for their genuine taste and freshness.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Indian flavors, especially the dosas and chutneys."

Good to know

1

Dosa night happens every Thursday, featuring family-friendly vegetarian options.

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The weekend brunch buffet is available on Saturday and Sunday.

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The buffet costs $20 per person, which is considered affordable.

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Madras Cafe Indian Restaurant & Catering image 1
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South Indian restaurant offers authentic flavors with crispy dosas and aromatic biriyani. Live counters create a lively experience reminiscent of Indian street food. Cozy space with a warm vibe attracts mostly Indian diners.

Lunch Thali offers authentic South Indian flavors with crispy dosas, flavorful sambar, and chutneys. Hyderabadi biriyani features aromatic spices, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic South Indian flavors and crispy dosas."

Good to know

1

Chaat Night happens every Friday starting at 5 PM.

2

Madras Cafe offers a live dosa station for events.

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Catering services from Madras Cafe are highly successful.

05
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Small Indian spot offers authentic flavors like chana bhature and kulcha at budget-friendly prices. Cozy, casual vibe with relaxing outdoor seating makes it perfect for a laid-back meal. Samosas stand out as a tasty, affordable treat.

Food offers authentic Indian taste with dishes like chana bhature and kulcha that stay true to traditional flavors. Prices remain reasonable and affordable for genuine desi cuisine.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Indian food and great prices here."

Good to know

1

The meal costs under $11 and includes naan, rice, cucumber salad, and two meat items.

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The portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of menu options to choose from.

06
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Offers authentic Chinese flavors with traditional recipes. Clean, minimal decor suits workday lunches with comfortable group seating. Dishes like spicy noodle soup and fried rice balance flavor and spice well.

Food here delivers authentic Chinese flavors with a focus on traditional recipes. Dishes maintain a genuine taste that reflects classic Chinese cuisine.

People are saying

"I found the authentic Chinese cuisine delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking might be limited on busy days.

2

The prices are a little high for my taste.

3

Mr Holy Gao offers authentic Chinese cuisine.

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Sprawling spot mixes art deco indoors with a lush patio for lawn games. Enjoy tea-based cocktails and authentic London vibes with dishes like curry chup. Live classical music keeps the atmosphere cheeky and vibrant.

High-end English food offers an authentic London vibe with dishes like curry chup standing out. Fish and chips deliver good taste but differ from traditional English versions.

People are saying

"The fish and chips are awesome, just like in the UK."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

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

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The restaurant allows individual payments during happy hour.

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Big building has spacious seating and a large shaded patio with nice views. Food shines with authentic Punjabi flavors, though quality varies. Quiet Indian prayer videos add a homey atmosphere that feels welcoming and calm.

Food offers full authentic Indian flavors with a focus on Punjabi cuisine. Some dishes deliver a truly authentic and delicious taste, though not all maintain this standard.

People are saying

"I found the Indian food here to be truly authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials offer large portions at a good value.

2

Parking is ample nearby, but tight directly in front of the restaurant.

3

The restaurant operates like a fast-food place with counter service.

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Sorrento Mesa, San Diego

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