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Top picks in Ventura

Dinner spots

A dinner that feels like an intentional evening out rather than just a rushed stop between errands.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Cafe Zack image 1
Cafe Zack image 2
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Californian restaurant

Cozy converted house offers a romantic atmosphere with intimate indoor and outdoor spaces. Patio features unique purse hooks and quiet dining. Dinner shines with a notable wine selection perfect for dates or family meals. Dim lighting adds privacy but makes reading menus tough.

Dinner here suits both special date nights and large family dinners. The wine selection stands out, with options for pairing and even purchasing by the case.

People are saying

"The food quality and care from the chefs were evident."

"You have to try the desserts, especially the crรจme brรปlรฉe cheesecake."

"You have to try the ribeye; it's the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

2

The menu prices may differ from those listed online.

3

Allow at least 1 hour for lunch, or 1.5 hours if having dessert.

02
Barrel 33 image 1
French restaurant

Garden oasis with rustic Italian design and mood lighting sets a warm, romantic tone. Outdoor patio offers heaters and blankets for cozy comfort. Easy to get last-minute tables for relaxed, intimate dinner moments.

Last-minute tables are available, making it easy to dine spontaneously. The dinner offers a relaxing atmosphere that encourages guests to unwind and enjoy life.

People are saying

"Parfait's wine expertise and hospitality made the evening magical."

"The owner's warm personality made our evening truly special and romantic."

"The owner is an incredible host and server for dinner spots."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to enter Barrel 33.

2

Barrel 33 is a 21+ only establishment.

3

Parking can be difficult to find near Barrel 33.

03
The Yard Bar & Grill image 1

Cozy bar and spacious patio offer a friendly vibe with live music and a speakeasy feel. Burgers and cocktails shine, perfect for dinner or casual drinks. Great for groups wanting to unwind and enjoy a game in style.

Dinner features a mix of appetizers and main dishes enjoyed alongside happy hour drinks. The spot suits gatherings for unwinding with friends or loved ones while catching a game.

People are saying

"These burgers are perfectly cooked and well seasoned."

"I found the atmosphere and vibe to be really cool."

"It's a great spot for dinner with an amazing atmosphere."

Good to know

1

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

2

The patio is pet-friendly, making it a great spot for dog owners.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

04
Zaytouna Bites - Bakery & Restaurant image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant serves authentic Middle Eastern cuisine with generous portions perfect for dinner. Cozy atmosphere welcomes families and comfort food lovers, enhanced by beautiful decor and friendly music.

Dinner offers high quality Middle Eastern dishes like Sujuk and falafel sandwich. Plates provide generous portions, enough for multiple meals at a reasonable price.

People are saying

"You have to try the chicken shawarma plate; it's amazing."

"This lunch spot has amazing, delicious Mediterranean food."

"I had a delicious Mediterranean meal at these dinner spots."

Good to know

1

The menu features a variety of authentic Mediterranean dishes made from scratch.

2

Prices are reasonable, making it a great option for lunch or dinner.

3

The restaurant can customize the spice level of dishes upon request.

05
Gourmet Oriental image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, cozy spot with a family-owned feel offers fresh, authentic Chinese dishes. Dinner shines with wok flavor and specials like shrimp in lobster sauce. Casual vibe and affordable prices make it a hidden gem for locals.

Fresh and flavorful dishes with good wok flavor make dinner here stand out. The all-inclusive special dinner offers items like shrimp in lobster sauce and tangerine chicken, providing great value and variety.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, bursting with authentic flavor."

"This lunch spot has amazing, authentic Chinese food."

"These dinner spots have amazing, flavorful Chinese food."

Good to know

1

Everything is made fresh to order, so calling ahead is recommended.

2

The restaurant offers both dine-in and takeout options.

3

Expect large portions that provide good value for the price.

06
Transmission Brewing image 1

Glass building offers ocean views and a lively beer deck for social dinners. Enjoy craft beers and top-notch pizza indoors or on the upper deck. Music and dog-friendly vibes make it perfect for fun evenings with friends.

Evenings feature cold beer and pizza for dinner. It's a spot to enjoy drinks and meals with friends.

People are saying

"I tried so many great beers, they did not miss."

"The pizza and beer here are great."

"I enjoyed drinks and dinner here; the beer selection is great."

Good to know

1

The upstairs room with a view opens at 5PM and is for over 21 only.

2

You can order food from Toppers Pizza and have it delivered to the brewery.

3

Parking is limited, especially on football Sundays.

07
Kuu Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot offers fresh, high-quality fish with massive plates and tasty sides like gyoza. Intimate vibe fits date nights and quiet dinners. Modern decor with cool murals and comfy seating keeps atmosphere relaxed yet lively.

Dinner features massive plates with several sides like pickled cucumbers and gyoza. The atmosphere suits date nights or special occasions.

People are saying

"I considered this the best sushi I had visited."

"The seafood here is so fresh, it has no fishy aftertaste."

"I thought the dinner spots here offered the best sushi."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 8 PM until close with great prices.

2

Kuu Sushi offers a diverse menu including unique sushi rolls and ramen.

3

The restaurant stays open later than most, until 10 PM.

08
Lucky Thai Cuisine image 1
Thai restaurant

Cozy spot near the beach offers beautiful views and a clean, organized space. Casual dinners feature simple Thai dishes perfect for small groups. Aromas from the kitchen add to the inviting vibe for a relaxed evening.

Casual dinners focus on simple Thai dishes served in a relaxed setting. Meals suit small groups or pairs looking for an easy evening out.

People are saying

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

"I had the best green curry I've ever tasted."

"The food here is so flavorful and served hot."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times during peak hours, especially on Friday evenings.

2

The restaurant offers a free appetizer on special occasions like Valentine's Day.

3

Portions are generous, making it a good value for the price.

09
Orozco's de Ventura image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious outdoor patio with live music and patio lights sets a lively mood. Dinner serves authentic Mexican flavors on large wooden boards. Guests enjoy a homey atmosphere with fresh ocean air.

Dinner comes on large wooden cutting boards, adding a unique touch. The menu offers a true Mexican dinner experience with authentic flavors.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the amazing, authentic Mexican food here."

"The outdoor seating area is beautiful and spacious."

"You'll love the authentic Mexican dinner spots here, especially the shrimp tacos."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure accommodation.

2

The restaurant offers outdoor seating for a pleasant dining experience.

3

Open mic events occur regularly, enhancing the dining atmosphere.

10
Gloria's Kitchen Mexican Restaurant image 1

Original 60's decor creates a nostalgic tone in a lively, festive space. Families enjoy all-day breakfast and lunch with margaritas. Dinner serves very good food with consistent quality in a noisy, energetic setting.

Dinner offers very good food with consistent quality. Frequent visits for lunch and dinner show it serves solid evening meals.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious."

"The food here is authentic, based on family recipes."

"These breakfast burritos are huge and super good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers during specific hours.

2

Breakfast and lunch are served all day, providing flexible dining options.

3

Menudo is available on weekends, a special dish for visitors to try.

11
Boatyard Pub image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood shines with steak and lobster on Wednesdays and solid dishes like parmesan beef tacos. Live music creates a lively atmosphere that fills the bar. Dog-friendly patios and a beautifully renovated interior offer great views and comfort.

Wednesday offers a steak and lobster dinner that stands out as a midweek highlight. Parmesan beef tacos, fish and chips, and steak feature as solid choices for both lunch and dinner.

People are saying

"The fish and chips here have a light, crispy batter."

"The Wednesday steak and lobster dinner was incredible."

"I loved the live music; it made the atmosphere so lively."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The weekly bluegrass jam happens every Thursday night starting around 6:45pm.

3

Live music is featured on Sundays, creating a lively atmosphere.

12
Blue Agave Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with live mariachi music and a large, clean patio perfect for dinner. Bar boasts 700 tequilas, including rare finds. Enjoy authentic dishes with homemade sauces in a lively, easygoing setting.

Dinner offers inexpensive options with great food. Outdoor seating on the patio provides a nice spot for an early meal.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"The Mexican food here is amazing and delicious."

"The hot salsa at these dinner spots is the hottest I've ever had."

Good to know

1

They offer all-day happy hour on Wednesdays.

2

Happy hour menu includes $9.00 beers and $10.95 drinks.

3

A public parking lot is available just across from the restaurant.

13
China Kitchen image 1
Chinese restaurant

Cozy spot with Chinese art and many booths offers a warm vibe. Mandarin-speaking owner serves authentic Sichuan cuisine with big portions at fair prices. Dinner includes a set menu with soup, shrimp, spring roll, and entrรฉe for $20.95.

Dinner features a set menu called Dinner A priced at $20.95 per person. It includes soup, one fried shrimp, one spring roll, and an entrรฉe each.

People are saying

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

"The food here is authentic, with that comforting homemade taste."

"The dinner spots here taste like authentic, homemade Asian grandma cooking."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers big portions that can be shared.

2

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food provided.

3

The menu is user-friendly and easy to navigate.

14
Black Bear Diner Ventura image 1
American restaurant

Woodsy cabin decor and teddy bear theme create a cozy vibe with jukebox music adding fun. Dinner offers solid comfort food with consistent quality, perfect for family meals. Spacious seating and views of Ventura hills keep the atmosphere relaxed and unique.

Dinner features solid comfort food with consistent quality. Management improvements show in holiday meals and handling busy family dinners with young kids.

People are saying

"The food at this diner is fantastic and the portions are large."

"Gloria's positive attitude made my breakfast great."

"The food here is wonderful and cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and accessible near the diner.

2

The wait to be seated is usually short, even during busy hours.

3

Expect large portions, which may be enough for two people.

15
ร“-Sabi Restaurant image 1
Japanese restaurant

Hibachi-style cooking shows create a festive atmosphere with chefs performing tricks. Large groups enjoy plentiful portions perfect for celebrations. The lively setting includes an old-school sushi bar and staff in costumes for special events.

Large groups gather for birthday dinners and family celebrations with everyone eating together. Portions come with plenty of leftovers, and servers offer to take group pictures at the end of the meal.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and amazing."

"I really enjoyed the fresh sushi here."

"The dinner here was delicious and great."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant fills up quickly.

2

Expect a wait time of 15 to 30 minutes during peak hours.

3

The restaurant is quite expensive, with meals for a family of four around $200.

16
Fresh Burrito Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy spot with white-washed Mexican decor offers a family-friendly vibe and energetic music. Dinner hours now serve delicious, fulfilling meals perfect for quick lunches or casual dinners. Options suit both meat lovers and vegetarians.

Expanded hours allow for dinner service now. Food stays delicious and fulfilling, fitting for a quick lunch or casual dinner.

People are saying

"I had the best breakfast burrito of my life here."

"Their salsa is delicious and generously portioned."

"These dinner spots have delicious chips, salsa, and guacamole."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is available all day, offering a variety of options.

2

Expect generous portions and salsa with every meal.

3

The boxed tacos are a good deal at 10 street tacos for $20.

17
De La Cruz Authentic Mexican Cuisine image 1

Hole-in-the-wall Mexican spot offers authentic Mexican food with big flavors and generous portions. Enjoy a well-maintained salsa bar in a clean, relaxed space with friendly service. Perfect for affordable, satisfying family dinners.

Big flavors and big portions make dinner here satisfying. The spot serves dependable, authentic Mexican cuisine that works well for family meals.

People are saying

"I loved the breakfast tacos with chile verde."

"I found the burritos here to be the best in town."

"I found the Mexican food at these dinner spots always good."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday specials are offered every week with $2 tacos.

2

The restaurant provides free chips and salsa with meals.

3

Parking is accessible and convenient for guests.

18
Kibo Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Japanese decor creates a welcoming atmosphere with fresh sushi and affordable sake. Dinner offers exotic rolls and barbecue plates with mixed service quality. Busy and lively vibe makes it a fun but sometimes noisy spot.

Dinner features exotic rolls and barbecue dinner plates with attentive waitstaff helping families and anticipating needs. Service quality varies, with some nights marked by poor customer care.

People are saying

"The food quality during Happy Hour is surprisingly good and fresh."

"The sushi here is amazing, thanks to Ella's excellent service."

"The dinner spots here have attentive servers who anticipate your needs."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts after 8pm every night with special pricing on sushi.

2

The restaurant gets busy during happy hour, so arrive 15 minutes early to avoid waiting.

3

The happy hour menu offers sushi at $1.99 each, making it a great deal.

19
Black Angus Steakhouse image 1

Steakhouse shines with warm atmosphere and live music for a lively night. Dinner deals like the 2 dinner deal and campfire deal offer great value and variety. Attentive service makes it perfect for special occasions.

Dinner offers include a 2 dinner deal with options to upgrade to a sampler and a campfire deal featuring two dinners, an appetizer, and dessert. Service is attentive and warm, enhancing occasions like birthday dinners.

People are saying

"The steak here is great, especially with the welcoming management."

"The service at these dinner spots is so kind and attentive."

"It's a great spot for birthday celebrations with special desserts."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is currently being discussed for weekend availability.

2

Brunch is served on weekends with a variety of options.

3

A BOGO special is available for dine-in and takeout on weekends.

20
Denny's image 1
Restaurant

Modern diner offers 24-hour availability with a menu spanning breakfast to dinner. Cozy back rooms provide quiet seating and outlets, perfect for groups or solo work. Friendly staff ensure a welcoming atmosphere ideal for late-night meals.

Late night dinners work well here with a menu offering varied options from breakfast to dinner. Staff provide attentive and friendly service during evening meals.

People are saying

"The breakfast here is really good and fresh."

"The service at these dinner spots is friendly and attentive."

"The coffee was hot, dark, and kept coming."

Good to know

1

Denny's accommodates large groups, with reservations recommended for parties over 10.

2

The restaurant is open 24 hours, making it convenient for late-night dining.

3

Parking is easy, with dedicated Tesla charging stations available.

21
Ventura Harbor Village image 1

Harbor views and live music create a colorful atmosphere perfect for shopping and dining. Fresh seafood and casual pubs offer great dinner spots with lively vibes. Boat rentals add a fun activity to enjoy the bay and relax outdoors.

Dinner offers a chance to enjoy fresh seafood and harbor views right after sunset. Options include casual spots like a pub and lively places with dancing and drinks.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great views and the lively, energetic atmosphere."

"It's a nice, peaceful spot for walking and relaxing."

"You can find great dinner spots for lunch or just walking around."

Good to know

1

Live music occurs on weekends at Ventura Harbor Village.

2

Special events like Pirate Day and Mermaid Day are held on weekends.

3

Parking is paid, but free parking is available from Monday to Thursday.

22
Casa Bella image 1
Steak house

Steak house with Spanish flair offers an upscale, romantic atmosphere perfect for intimate dinners. Enjoy four-course meals featuring rib eye and sea bass, paired with spicy mango margaritas for a warm, welcoming vibe.

Four-course dinners feature raviolis, pear salad, lobster bisque, and ahi appetizer. Entrees include rib eye and sea bass for a relaxing dinner experience.

People are saying

"The dinner here was spectacular, especially the sea bass."

"The Happy Hour food selections were great with many options."

"It's a classy place with a gorgeous ambiance."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20% service charge added to your bill automatically.

2

Happy hour offers full-size portions and drinks at reasonable prices.

3

Parking can be challenging; plan to arrive early.

23
I Love Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot offers a cozy atmosphere with a buzzing vibe at night. Sitting at the bar adds to the casual vibe perfect for celebrations or Friday outings. Friendly crowd makes it feel intimate and fun.

Dinner here often involves sitting at the bar when available, creating a casual vibe. The spot suits celebrations like birthdays and casual Friday night outings with friends.

People are saying

"I considered this my favorite spot for Japanese food."

"The sashimi here is melt-in-your-mouth tender and amazing quality."

"I identified this sushi spot as my favorite."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not strictly required, but it's best to call ahead during peak hours.

2

Expect wait times of 20-30 minutes during busy dinner hours.

3

Prices are moderate, with most sushi rolls priced around $10-$15.

24
Maki Sushi Ventura image 1
Sushi restaurant

Outdoor seating shines with a flower-lit patio and heaters, perfect for a cozy dinner. Sushi offers fresh fish in large, affordable rolls with varied flavors. German-sized cold beer and tasty saki add to the relaxed vibe, making it a great dinner spot with quick service.

Dinner features unadulterated slices of fish like the Chirashi Bowl. Service stays wonderful and meals come quickly, making it a solid spot for dinner.

People are saying

"The sushi here is amazing and tasted very good."

"The happy hour sushi is fresh, delicious, and affordable."

"I found this a great dinner spot with wonderful service."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 12 to 5pm on weekdays with great drink specials.

2

The patio is dog-friendly and offers a pleasant outdoor dining experience.

3

The happy hour menu features discounted rolls and appetizers.

25
Rocks & Drams image 1
Japanese restaurant

Rustic lounge offers cozy couch seating and a stylish bar with live entertainment. Indoor and outdoor spaces create a laid-back vibe perfect for casual drinks or date nights. Dinner feels loud, more like a bar atmosphere than a quiet meal spot.

Dinner here feels more like a loud bar than a calm dining spot. The place markets itself as a nice dinner venue but the atmosphere is noisy and not suited for a quiet meal.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the filet hibachi."

"The bartenders here craft delicious custom cocktails and know their stuff."

"I found the dinner spots here to be magnificent and delicious."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens every Thursday with loud music until 11:00 pm.

2

Food is served until 9:00 pm on event nights.

3

Sunday brunch features a special menu and live music.

26
Hill Street Cafe image 1
Family restaurant

Family-friendly spot with a dog-friendly patio and a chill vibe. Offers affordable prices and bottomless mimosas for a relaxed meal. Dinner options include both dine-in and takeout, making it a flexible dinner spot.

Dinner includes options for dine-in and takeout. Meals come alongside breakfast and lunch offerings, making it a flexible spot for evening meals.

People are saying

"The cafe's cinnamon French toast and chilaquiles were really good."

"The breakfast service here is friendly and quick."

"I found the food here to be delicious with good flavor."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers a dog-friendly patio for pet owners.

2

Expect no wait times during weekday mornings.

3

Breakfast is available at a great price.

27
Ventura Crab N Spice image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small space offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a relaxed vibe. Seafood boils shine with spicy, flavorful seasoning on crab legs and shrimp. Dinner is lively and portions are perfect for sharing, making it great for couples or groups.

Dinner time gets very busy here, so expect a lively atmosphere. Portions lean toward sharing, as the $49.99 dinner for two can be adjusted for smaller appetites.

People are saying

"The seafood boil seasoning here is amazing and has a nice kick."

"It's a great kid-friendly spot; they even peel the shrimp for them."

"The food at these dinner spots was delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, and the restaurant stops taking customers at 6 pm.

2

Expect a 20% service fee for parties of five or more.

3

Unlimited all-you-can-eat shrimp and mussels are available for 90 minutes.

28
Model Citizen image 1
Restaurant

Industrial chic design sets a laid-back atmosphere with casual music and a clean look. Dinner serves consistently excellent quality meals, perfect for celebrations or casual nights. Fusion of American and French styles adds a modern, swanky vibe.

Dinner here offers a fantastic meal experience with consistently excellent quality. The spot suits celebrations and casual dinners alike, making it a reliable choice for evening dining.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, especially the steak tartare."

"I loved their happy hour smash burgers and strong, tasty cocktails."

"The dinner here was delicious and excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to secure a table.

2

An automatic 18% service charge is added to all bills.

3

Entrees are priced between $30-35, so expect higher dining costs.

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