The cerulean Pacific Ocean, the glittering lights of downtown high rises, the majestic Coronado Bridge outstretched across the San Diego Bay – it’s no wonder scenic San Diego draw visitors from around the world. And just as abundant as the beautiful views are fine restaurants perfect for soaking up the panorama. Open Table diners agree, as users of the popular dining reservation site recently named 8 San Diego restaurants to their list of the Top 50 Scenic Views in the U.S.!
So sit back with a glass of fine wine, order a delicious dish and indulge in a feast for both the eyes and the stomach at one of these great restaurants:
- Bali Hai Restaurant: In 1953, the Bali Hai was the first tiki temple erected on Shelter Island. The swanky Polynesian-themed restaurant continues to draw crowds with magnificent Mai Tais, delicious island fare and views of San Diego Bay and the downtown skyline.
- Bertrand at Mister A’s: Situated on Banker’s Hill near Balboa Park, Bertrand at Mister A’s overlooks downtown San Diego, San Diego Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Their top floor location offers a spectacular sight: airplanes sailing past as they arrive at the San Diego International Airport. Diners have been known to wave to passengers aboard as they descend.
- Chart House Restaurant: The Cardiff location of this popular fine-dining Chart House chain is set right along the Pacific coastline just off Highway 101. Their extravagant seafood entrees pair perfectly with the beachfront views.
- Il Fornaio: Located at the Coronado Ferry Landing, the patio at Il Fornaio boasts sparkling views of San Diego Bay and the downtown San Diego skyline; the menu of casually elegant Italian trattoria-style specialties is just as delightful as the view.
- Island Prime: Located on Harbor Island, Island Prime offers guests spectacular views across San Diego Bay with downtown San Diego’s skyline just beyond. Chef Deborah Scott’s menu of steak and seafood classics with imaginative, modern twists is served both in the retro chic dining room, and more casually on an outdoor patio that juts out over the water.
- Peohe’s: Set on San Diego Bay with spectacular views of the downtown San Diego skyline, Peohe’s specializes in fresh tropical seafood and Pacific Rim dishes including innovative sushi. Al fresco dining is available on the patio or in a charming dockside courtyard.
- The Marine Room: A local landmark since 1941, The Marine Room is nestled along the sand of La Jolla Shores. The changing tides and dramatic waves crashing against the restaurant’s windows provide the perfect backdrop for executive chef Bernard Guillas’ sophisticated dishes. Chef Guillas was recently inducted into the Maîtres Cuisiniers de France, becoming the only chef in San Diego to join the ranks of the 204 Master Chefs from around the world.
- The Shores Restaurant: A neighbor of the Marine Room, The Shores Restaurant is the perfect spot to enjoy the sun setting above picturesque La Jolla Shores. The casual atmosphere pairs with fresh menu items that the whole family can enjoy for a relaxed and refreshing meal just steps from the sand.
With so many tempting choices, which one will you visit?