Best Upscale Salad in San Diego | Top 1 Upscale Spots

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Salad in San Diego | Top 1 Upscale Spots

• Ambrogio15 — Italian · rated 5/5: This stylish Italian escape hums with the energy of a modern Milanese bistro, where the scent of bubbling dough and spicy salamino drifts from the oven to meet guests at the door. Paper-thin pizzas topped with creamy burrata and silky prosciutto share the table with vibrant seasonal salads and signature pastas, all perfectly complemented by a spirited selection of natural wines. It is a masterclass in contemporary craft, blending artisanal traditions with a chic, effortless atmosphere that invites long, leisurely evenings.
• Kabob Lounge — Middle Eastern · rated 5/5: Kabob Lounge invites guests into a vibrant, social space where the air is thick with the scent of toasted spices and warm, pillowy pita bread. The table comes alive with colorful meza platters featuring velvety hummus, smoky baba ghanouj, and golden-fried falafel, all designed for lingering over shared bites and lively conversation. Crisp, herb-flecked shirazi salads and flaky layers of spanakopita round out a Mediterranean feast that feels both timeless and refreshingly modern.
• Pokewan — Japanese · rated 5/5: This vibrant, sun-drenched spot invites diners to craft their own edible art, where the cool silkiness of premium raw fish meets the crunch of seaweed salad and the sharp, clean heat of fresh-grated wasabi. From the bold, savory depth of the Miso Nutty to the fiery kick of the Hotty Hotty, every bowl is a customizable explosion of Pacific-inspired flavors designed to both nourish and energize.
• Filippi's Pizza Grotto Santee — Italian · rated 5/5: Step into a nostalgic haven where the comforting aroma of bubbling mozzarella and slow-simmered marinara fills the air, inviting families to gather around tables laden with generous, heart-warming portions. From the towering layers of rich, cheesy lasagna to the vibrant crunch of a classic antipasto salad, every dish celebrates the soul of Italian-American comfort in a warm, bustling atmosphere that feels like a timeless neighborhood tradition.
• Sbicca — American · rated 4/5: Sbicca offers a sun-drenched coastal escape where the briny scent of freshly shucked oysters mingles with the sophisticated hum of a neighborhood favorite. Platters of chilled Sequim Bay sapphires and vibrant bluefin poke celebrate the ocean’s bounty, while velvety bisques and citrus-bright salads provide a refined balance to the seaside fare. Whether lingering over a crisp glass of wine or savoring decadent crab-stuffed oysters, guests find themselves enveloped in an atmosphere of effortless elegance and culinary artistry.
• El Pollo Grill — Mexican · rated 4/5: The air at El Pollo Grill is thick with the savory, smoky aroma of citrus-marinated chicken sizzling over an open flame, drawing in guests with the promise of a perfectly charred, golden-brown feast. From hefty, flavor-packed California burritos to succulent quarter-chicken plates served alongside crisp, vibrant salads, the kitchen transforms simple ingredients into a soulful celebration of grill-centric comfort. This bustling neighborhood staple offers a warm, inviting atmosphere where the zest of fresh salsas and the heartiness of a breakfast grande burrito provide a satisfying, sun-drenched experience at any hour.
• Riviera Supper Club and Turquoise Room — Steakhouse · rated 4/5: Stepping into this mid-century gem feels like a journey back to the golden age of dining, where the vibrant hues of the Turquoise Room and the hum of lively conversation create an atmosphere of effortless cool. The kitchen elevates nostalgic comfort with inventive bites like golden cottage pie croquettes and smoky bacon-wrapped shrimp, perfectly paired with the soul-warming depth of a classic French onion soup. It is a place where every meal feels like a celebration, inviting guests to linger over crisp, chilled salads and hearty bowls of chowder in a space that pulses with vintage charm.
• Olive Cafe — Mediterranean · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams into this vibrant neighborhood haunt, where the sweet aroma of griddled cinnamon rolls and fresh-brewed coffee creates an instantly welcoming morning retreat. The kitchen masters the art of the coastal brunch, layering bright, seasonal flavors into everything from refreshing acai bowls to hearty, overstuffed burritos that capture a laid-back California spirit. Whether you are tucking into a crisp strawberry salad or a savory artisan sandwich, every plate feels like a handcrafted celebration of easygoing daytime dining.
• Wild Thyme Bar & Grill — American · rated 4/5: Wild Thyme Bar & Grill invites guests into a vibrant, welcoming space where the air is perfumed with the savory aroma of charbroiled meats and the bright, herbal notes of the Mediterranean. Velvety swirls of house-made hummus and smoky baba ghanoush anchor a table filled with crisp, golden falafel and zesty Greek salads, creating a colorful tapestry of sun-drenched flavors. It is a soulful destination where traditional Middle Eastern staples and casual grill favorites come together, offering a dining experience that feels both nourishing and celebratory.
• Filippi's Pizza Grotto Scripps Ranch — Italian · rated 4/5: This inviting neighborhood grotto captures the essence of a classic Italian-American kitchen, where the nostalgic aroma of toasted garlic and melting cheese fills a space adorned with old-world charm. Heaping plates of hand-layered lasagna and vibrant, meat-laden antipasto salads celebrate the joy of generous, soul-warming comfort food, inviting guests to gather over thick-crust pizzas and traditional pastas that taste of home.
• Filippi's Pizza Grotto Pacifc Beach — Italian · rated 4/5: Step into a nostalgic slice of Italy where the scent of bubbling mozzarella and slow-simmered marinara fills a space adorned with classic red-checkered tablecloths and a warm, neighborhood buzz. Towering plates of handmade lasagna and hearty spaghetti are served alongside crispy, thin-crust pizzas, offering a comforting, old-school retreat just steps away from the sun-drenched energy of Pacific Beach. Whether sharing a vibrant antipasto salad or a toasted specialty sandwich, guests are enveloped in a timeless charm that turns every meal into a festive family gathering.
• Smokey and the Brisket — American · rated 3/5: The air hangs heavy with the intoxicating aroma of slow-smoked wood and bubbling cheese, welcoming diners into a high-energy space where indulgence takes center stage. Golden-fried mac ‘n cheese and zesty pickle chips offer a satisfying crunch before giving way to the main event: melt-in-your-mouth brisket burnt ends paired with the fiery warmth of jalapeño-studded macaroni. Whether sharing a mountain of loaded fries or balancing the smoke with a crisp, vibrant chopped salad, every bite celebrates the bold, soul-warming flavors of classic American comfort.
• Pomegranate — Middle Eastern: Pomegranate invites guests into a vibrant, sun-drenched sanctuary where the air is perfumed with the scent of freshly baked dough and the earthy warmth of slow-simmered lobio. Tables are transformed into a kaleidoscope of color with jewel-toned beet salads and savory ikra, anchored by the centerpiece of molten, cheese-filled khachapuri that pulls apart in golden, buttery ribbons. It is a soulful destination where communal dining and ancient traditions meet, offering a rich tapestry of flavors that celebrate the heart of Georgian hospitality.
• Sisters Pizza — Italian: This lively neighborhood haunt invites guests into a world of golden-fried indulgence, where the irresistible crunch of crispy artichokes and calamari fills the air with savory promise. Vibrant, artfully composed salads like the beet-rich "Two Hearts That Beet as One" or a smoky grilled Caesar provide a fresh, colorful counterpoint to the gooey pull of warm mozzarella sticks. It is a welcoming space where playful creativity meets classic comfort, ensuring every shared plate feels like a celebration of simple, soul-satisfying flavors.
• Jack and Giulio's — Italian: This inviting neighborhood gem wraps guests in a warm embrace, where the scent of toasted garlic bread and savory shrimp bisque drifts from a bustling kitchen. Crisp, vibrant salads and classic antipasti set the stage for an indulgent journey through traditional flavors, featuring delicate handmade tortelloni and golden, savory panzerotti. It is a space where timeless hospitality meets the soulful comfort of a well-loved kitchen, creating an atmosphere that feels both celebratory and intimately familiar.
• The Kebab Shop — Middle Eastern: The Kebab Shop pulses with a vibrant energy, where the sizzle of grilled meats and the crisp snap of fresh vegetables come together in a modern, sun-drenched space. Guests dive into hefty, flavor-packed wraps like the spicy "Fire" or the indulgent "Truffle Maker," each bursting with Mediterranean zest and creative flair. Whether building a nutrient-dense grain bowl or savoring a "Get Greeky" salad, every bite offers a bright, customizable journey through bold spices and wholesome ingredients.
• Cucina Basilico — Italian: Sun-drenched flavors and the rustic charm of an Italian kitchen come alive at Cucina Basilico, where the air is scented with fresh herbs and the convivial hum of shared plates. Vibrant platters of jewel-toned beet salads and creamy burrata sit alongside crisp, colorful bruschettas and tender Roman artichokes, celebrating the simple elegance of Mediterranean ingredients. Whether savoring the spicy kick of calamari alla diavola or the comforting warmth of savory polpette, guests are transported to a lively Roman piazza where every bite feels like a celebration of tradition.
• Adrian's Surf N' Turf Grill — Steakhouse: Sun-drenched coastal flavors take center stage at this vibrant grill, where the comforting steam of San Diego seafood chowder meets the irresistible crunch of golden-battered mushrooms in a relaxed, breezy atmosphere. The kitchen artfully balances land and sea, serving up everything from zesty mini ahi tacos and tropical grilled shrimp to crisp, garden-fresh salads that celebrate the bright, bold essence of a California summer.
• The Huddle — American: This quintessential neighborhood gathering spot hums with the comforting sizzle of searing 7oz burgers and the golden shatter of beer-battered fish. From the nostalgic warmth of a hot pastrami sandwich to the simple, home-style charm of a classic egg salad, every plate serves up a hearty slice of Americana in an unpretentious space designed for lingering conversations and shared stories.
• Coasterra — Mexican: Perched where the city skyline meets the shimmering bay, this sophisticated waterfront destination invites guests into a sun-drenched space alive with the salt-kissed breeze and the rhythmic energy of an open kitchen. Bright, citrus-forward flavors take center stage as towers of chilled oysters and vibrant ceviche trios showcase the ocean’s bounty, while velvety poblano soups and crisp, garden-fresh salads offer a sophisticated nod to traditional Mexican soul. Whether lingering over a spicy shrimp aguachile or a smoky bowl of tortilla soup, diners find themselves immersed in a celebration of modern coastal cuisine that feels both elevated and effortlessly relaxed.
• Poncho's Mexican Food — Mexican: Poncho's Mexican Food captures the vibrant spirit of the borderlands, where the sizzle of the grill and the scent of toasted tortillas fill the air with a welcoming, casual warmth. Diners dive into overstuffed San Diego burritos and golden, cheese-laden Sonora quesadillas, while the surf-and-turf tacos offer a coastal symphony of succulent shrimp and savory steak. Whether you are tucking into a crisp, garden-fresh salad or a hearty, pressed torta, every bite celebrates the bold, sun-drenched flavors of authentic Mexican comfort.
• The Grill at Vine Ripe — American: Sunlight seems to dance through this vibrant eatery, where the comforting steam from bowls of zesty chicken lemon rice soup and earthy lentils creates an immediate sense of home. The kitchen balances the crisp, garden-fresh crunch of signature salads with the bold, savory indulgence of golden fries loaded with tender beef shawarma and spiced gyro. It is a lively culinary crossroads where wholesome Mediterranean traditions meet modern, crave-worthy comfort in every colorful bite.
• Happy Time Mediterranean Restaurant — Mediterranean: Sunlight seems to dance across plates of vibrant beet salad and zesty fattoush at this lively Mediterranean escape, where the air is fragrant with fresh herbs and toasted pita. Guests gather around overflowing starter platters to share silky swirls of hummus, smoky baba ghanoush, and tender hand-rolled dolmas, creating a communal feast that celebrates the bright, bold flavors of the coast.
• Dolci Cafe Italiano — Italian: Stepping into this charming Italian haven feels like a getaway to the Mediterranean, where the air is thick with the scent of fresh pesto and golden, crisp calamari. From the delicate marbling of beef carpaccio to the bright, orchard-fresh notes of a pear salad, every plate celebrates the art of the shared table in a setting that glows with effortless warmth and hospitality.
• Crafted Greens — American: Sunlight streams into this vibrant eatery where the aroma of bubbling, golden-crusted flatbreads and garden-fresh herbs creates an atmosphere of wholesome warmth. The kitchen transforms seasonal harvests into a kaleidoscope of textures, pairing crisp salads that burst with global spices and sweet autumn pears alongside artisanal pizzas topped with premium, free-range ingredients. This inviting space brings together the simplicity of farm-to-table dining and creative culinary flair, offering a nourishing experience that feels both indulgent and refreshingly light.
• D'Lish Gourmet Pasta & Pizza — Italian: The air is thick with the comforting aroma of simmering tomato basil soup and toasted garlic, welcoming guests into a vibrant space where casual dining feels like a gourmet treat. Tables buzz with energy as friends share overflowing platters of golden calamari, zesty buffalo wings, and herb-flecked bruschetta that celebrate bold, classic flavors. It is a neighborhood haven where every meal, from a crisp Greek salad to a hearty bowl of savory meatballs, is served with a genuine sense of warmth and conviviality.
• Gor Gai Thai Kitchen — Thai: Step into a vibrant space where the air is filled with the irresistible aroma of sizzling Gor Gai wings and aromatic satay chicken. This lively kitchen masters the art of the crunch, serving up golden-fried treasures and delicate dumplings alongside crisp, herb-laden salads that offer a refreshing burst of garden-fresh flavor. It is a welcoming destination where traditional inspirations meet modern comfort, inviting guests to linger over colorful plates designed for sharing and celebration.
• Deli Belly — American: Step into a bustling neighborhood sanctuary where the air is thick with the savory aroma of steaming pastrami and toasted rye bread. Towering classics like the molten, marbled Reuben and zesty spicy pastrami are served alongside crisp, garden-fresh vegetarian options and creamy albacore tuna, each bite offering a satisfying harmony of textures and bold, traditional flavors. Whether you’re tucking into a saucy, cheese-laden meatball sub or a light chicken salad sandwich, the experience is one of pure, unpretentious comfort that leaves every guest thoroughly satisfied.
• Gaetano's Italian Restaurant — Italian: The air at Gaetano’s Italian Restaurant is thick with the comforting scent of toasted garlic bread and the briny, aromatic steam of mussels simmering in rich marinara. Crisp, vibrant greens take center stage here, from the sun-drenched flavors of the Mediterranean salad to the classic, savory crunch of a perfectly tossed Caesar. It is a welcoming retreat where the simple elegance of traditional Italian starters and garden-fresh ingredients creates a bright, soulful dining experience.
• L&L Hawaiian Barbeque — American: L&L Hawaiian Barbeque captures the laid-back essence of island life through its iconic plate lunches, where the comforting aroma of sweet soy and smoky char fills the bustling space. Golden-brown chicken katsu and tender, slow-cooked kalua pork take center stage alongside signature scoops of creamy macaroni salad, offering a hearty celebration of Hawaii’s diverse culinary heritage. From the rich, gravy-drenched layers of a classic loco moco to the savory snap of grilled short ribs, every bite delivers a sun-drenched escape into the soulful flavors of the Pacific.