As a lifelong San Diegan, I get asked this question all the time: “Where should I take my friends when they visit San Diego?” With so many incredible restaurants across our city, it can be overwhelming to choose just a few of the best places to eat that show off what San Diego’s dinner scene is all about.

Whether your out of town guests are foodies, beach lovers, or just here to escape their daily routine, I’ve curated this list of restaurants that I love taking out-of-towners to. From lively bars to intimate dining rooms, each restaurant offers something unique to enjoy. These are spots that feel like San Diego, whether through stunning ocean views, unforgettable flavors, or just that laid-back, friendly vibe we’re known for.

From iconic staples to trendy newcomers, here are my top picks for making your visitors fall in love with San Diego…one meal at a time.

1. Iconic San Diego Dining with a View

George’s at the Cove | La Jolla

To give someone the quintessential meal with a view, I take them to George’s at the Cove in La Jolla. The view from their Ocean Terrace is pure magic, especially at sunset. Pair that with their fresh, modern California cuisine, and you’ve got an effortlessly impressive setting.

I usually recommend the fish tacos or whatever seasonal seafood is on the menu. And if your guests are visiting in the winter months, don’t worry—the heaters and blankets keep the vibe cozy without sacrificing the view.

Point Loma Seafoods | Point Loma

This one is for the low-key seafood lovers. Point Loma Seafoods is a casual counter-service spot right on the marina, but their menu offers everything from fresh seafood to delectable dishes that can satisfy any palate.  I love grabbing a shrimp sandwich or some clam chowder and snagging a seat outside while the boats drift by.

It’s the kind of spot that feels authentically San Diego—unpretentious, fresh, and perfectly salty in the best way. Bonus points if your visitors are coming from the Midwest or the desert and haven’t had real seafood in a while!

2. Trendy & Upscale Spots to Impress

Seneca | Downtown/Rooftop at InterContinental

When I want a wow factor that blends design, view, and cuisine, Seneca is my go-to. Perched on the rooftop of the InterContinental Hotel, this Roman-inspired restaurant has a show-stopping interior and some of the best rooftop vibes in the city.

From the house-made pasta meals to their signature cocktails, everything here feels curated and cool without trying too hard. It’s ideal for friends who love aesthetics and flavor. Pro tip: Make a reservation around sunset for the full San Diego effect.

Animae | Downtown

If your out of town guests are foodies who love trying things they can’t get back home, Animae will blow them away. It’s a high-end Asian fusion restaurant that combines Southeast Asian flavors with Wagyu beef and mind-blowing cocktail bar.

The space itself is luxurious and moody, with stunning decor that makes dining feel like a truly special experience. It’s not just about the food—it’s about the atmosphere, the creativity, and that feeling that you’ve just discovered something special.

Trust | Hillcrest

Trust is one of those places that locals are obsessed with…and for good reason. It’s chef-driven, stylish without being snooty, and perfect for showing your guests a modern twist on American comfort food.

The shared plates concept works especially well with groups. I always order the wood-grilled octopus and the Trust toast — it never misses. Plus, the Hillcrest location makes it easy to hop around to a nearby bar or enjoy dessert afterward.

3. Hidden Gems Locals Love

Mike’s Taco Club | Ocean Beach

Some out-of-towners simply want to feel like a local. For those guests, I always take them to Mike’s Taco Club in Ocean Beach. It’s laid-back, a little gritty in the best way, and just steps from the sand.

The tacos are loaded and deliciously messy—try the surf & turf or spicy shrimp if you want to impress your out of town guests. We’ll usually grab a seat on the bench outside and people-watch while the OB energy does its thing. It’s a great stop after a beach walk or sunset at the pier.

Hane Sushi | Bankers Hill

If you’re hosting someone who appreciates high-quality sushi without all the hoopla, Hane Sushi is a gem. Tucked into Bankers Hill just minutes from Balboa Park, it’s a calm, refined space with serious attention to detail. After savoring your omakase, keep the outing going with a Balboa Park walking tour, giving the whole group a chance to explore the park’s lush gardens, striking architecture, and world-class museums together.

As a San Diegan with fresh fish at my fingertips all my life, I’m pretty picky when it comes to sushi, and Hane nails it every time. Their nigiri is fresh and silky, and the rolls strike the perfect balance of creativity and tradition. This is the place I bring out-of-town friends who are ready to slow down and savor something simple and beautiful.

4. Group-Friendly Fun & Flavor

Puesto at The Headquarters | Seaport Village

If you’ve got a family or friends visiting and need something fun, flavorful, and photogenic, Puesto at The Headquarters checks every box. Located in the historic police headquarters near Seaport Village, this place brings a bold, elevated take on Mexican street food.

The tacos are creative and generously portioned (short rib birria is my go-to), and the aguas frescas or margaritas are always a hit. It’s lively, colorful, and walkable to the harbor—great for out-of-towners who want tacos with a side of scenery.

Lala | Little Italy

Lala is one of those places that instantly feels like a party. Located in the heart of Little Italy, it’s energetic and upbeat with a diverse menu that works well for groups with different cravings.

The new-age Italian menu offers everything from fresh gnocchi, squid ink pasta and jumbo shrimp to the tastiest osso-bucco, which makes it super easy to please everyone at the dining table. Plus, the cocktails are as much fun as the food. It’s the kind of place where dinner turns into drinks without anyone needing to move.

5. Make It an Experience: Join a So Diego Food Tour

Of course, if you really want to treat your guests to something unforgettable, I’ve got to recommend one of our San Diego food tours. These aren’t just walking tours with snacks—they’re curated experiences that dive into San Diego’s culture, history, and, yes, seriously good eats.

We’ve crafted tours in San Diego neighborhoods like Old Town and the Gaslamp that pair stories, scenery, and bites for an unforgettable time. It’s the perfect activity for first-time visitors or long-time locals eager to rediscover the city through a fresh lens. Whether you’re hosting a birthday group, treating your coworkers to a team building activity, or planning a San Diego family vacation, this is one experience that’s sure to wow everyone.

Final Thoughts

Every time I take someone new out to eat in San Diego, I fall in love with the city all over again. From rooftop sunsets to fish tacos by the ocean, the San Diego food scene is as vibrant and diverse as the people who make up America’s Finest City, and the people from all over the world who come to visit.

If you’ve got guests coming into town, don’t overthink it. Pick a few spots from this list based on their vibe, their appetite, and your favorite neighborhoods. And when you’re ready to turn dinner into a full-on experience, you know where to find us at So Diego.

We’ll make sure your guests don’t just visit San Diego, but they also taste it.

Written by: Melissa

Melissa hails from San Jose, CA, and has been a San Diego local for five years now after a 10-year long pit stop in Los Angeles. In L.A., she began her writing career crafting digital content for a wide range of clients, including The Real Talk Show, Sharon Osbourne, Hank Azaria, Time Life, and Cardinal Financial. She’s excited to be able to use her passion for writing to introduce people to some of the best spots in San Diego, many of which she has already frequented or has on her ever-expanding list of things to do. In her spare time, she enjoys taking her puppy Milo to all of the best dog beaches in SD, grabbing a glass of wine or a cup of joe at new places, and hosting watch parties for The Bachelor/ette TV show.