San Diego’s culinary scene has blossomed into a vibrant and diverse landscape, increasingly recognized for its exceptional dining experiences. The prestigious Michelin Guide has taken notice, bestowing stars and Bib Gourmand awards upon a selection of restaurants that exemplify outstanding cuisine, service, and overall dining excellence. For food enthusiasts seeking the pinnacle of gastronomy in Southern California, San Diego offers a compelling array of Michelin-recommended establishments. Let’s explore these culinary gems that have earned Michelin’s esteemed accolades.
Michelin Star Restaurants in San Diego
Michelin stars are the highest honor a restaurant can receive, signifying exceptional cuisine and a truly memorable dining experience. San Diego boasts restaurants that have achieved this coveted recognition, placing the city firmly on the map for fine dining.
Addison: Three Michelin Stars (2022)
Where: 5200 Grand del Mar Way, San Diego, CA 92130
Addison, nestled within the luxurious Fairmont Grand Del Mar resort, holds the distinction of being San Diego’s only three-Michelin-starred restaurant and one of only a handful in California to achieve this top honor. Under the masterful direction of Chef William Bradley, Addison specializes in refined California gastronomy. Michelin inspectors lauded Chef Bradley’s transformative influence, stating his cooking has been instrumental in “transforming this Southern Californian oasis into a world-class dining destination.” They further praised his “masterful control over technique, flavors, and textures,” highlighting the exceptional skill and artistry that defines the Addison experience. Dining at Addison is an immersive journey into culinary perfection, marked by impeccable service, an elegant ambiance, and dishes that showcase the finest ingredients with innovative and sophisticated preparations.
Valle: One Michelin Star (2023)
Where: 222 N. Pacific St., Oceanside, CA 92056
Chef Roberto Alcocer’s Valle, located near the Oceanside Pier, is a celebrated restaurant that pays homage to Baja California’s Guadalupe Valley. This region, renowned for its vineyards, inspires Valle’s extensive wine list and Chef Alcocer’s modern interpretation of Mexican cuisine. Michelin inspectors commended Valle’s refined and contemporary approach, particularly highlighting the four-course prix fixe menu. A typical meal might commence with a delicate tamal filled with creamy requeson cheese, complemented by rich mole and fresh herbs. Earning a Michelin star is a significant achievement for Chef Alcocer, who relocated from Baja to San Diego County in 2021 with the specific goal of achieving Michelin recognition. Valle offers a sophisticated and flavorful dining experience that beautifully blends Mexican culinary traditions with innovative techniques and presentation.
Jeune et Jolie: One Michelin Star (2021)
Where: 2659 State St, Carlsbad, CA 92008
Jeune et Jolie, translating from French to “young and beautiful,” is a Carlsbad gem that has quickly become a dining destination under the ownership of John Resnick and the culinary expertise of Executive Chef Eric Bost. Michelin describes Jeune et Jolie as an “appealing and well-orchestrated French restaurant oozing with style and elegance at every turn.” The restaurant delivers a modern French dining experience with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and artful presentation. The ambiance is chic and inviting, making it a perfect spot for both special occasions and refined everyday dining.
Soichi: One Michelin Star (2021)
Where: 2121 Adams Ave, San Diego, CA 92116
Chef Soichi Kadoya, formerly of the Michelin-starred Sushi Tadokoro, helms Soichi, an intimate Japanese restaurant in the University Heights neighborhood. The restaurant centers around the omakase experience, a Japanese tradition where diners entrust the chef to curate their meal. Michelin notes that the sushi at Soichi “leans straightforward” yet is “impressive and flaunts much skill.” Chef Kadoya’s dedication to quality and precision is evident in every piece of sushi, offering a truly authentic and refined Japanese dining experience.
Bib Gourmand Restaurants in San Diego
The Bib Gourmand designation from Michelin recognizes restaurants offering “good quality, good value cooking.” These establishments provide diners with exceptional meals at a moderate price point, making them excellent choices for delicious and affordable dining in San Diego.
Mabel’s Gone Fishing (2023)
Where: 3772 30th St., San Diego, CA 92104
Mabel’s Gone Fishing, named after a beloved dog, is a standout addition to the Bib Gourmand list in 2023. This North Park restaurant describes itself as a “ginoteria” and celebrates Iberian-style seafood. Mabel’s has garnered attention for its inventive seafood dishes, such as Swordfish Schnitzel, and its creative gin-focused cocktails. Michelin inspectors stated, “A focused menu highlights excellent local seafood with a simple-yet-satisfying approach that blends Californian and Iberian cuisine, and the results are undeniably delicious.” Mabel’s Gone Fishing offers a lively and flavorful dining experience that’s both approachable and exciting.
Callie (2021)
Where: 1195 Island Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Chef Travis Swikard leads Callie, an East Village restaurant named after the Greek word “kallos,” meaning beauty. Michelin inspectors seem to concur with the name’s sentiment. They describe Callie’s cuisine as taking “advantage of the best ingredients SoCal has to offer in highly shareable dishes featuring the bold, sunny flavors of the Mediterranean.” Callie provides a vibrant and social dining atmosphere with dishes designed for sharing, emphasizing fresh, seasonal ingredients and the bright, aromatic flavors of the Mediterranean region.
Cesarina (2021)
Where: 4161 Voltaire St, San Diego, CA 92107
Point Loma is home to Cesarina, a charming and convivial neighborhood trattoria that has earned Bib Gourmand recognition. Michelin specifically recommends “those on a quest for indulgence should look no further than the truffled gnocchi with a cream sauce, served in its own copper pot.” Cesarina offers a warm and inviting Italian dining experience, known for its handmade pasta and classic Italian dishes served in a cozy, neighborhood setting.
Ciccia Osteria (2021)
Where: 2233 Logan Ave, San Diego, CA 92113
Ciccia Osteria in Barrio Logan provides a truly “homey” Italian dining experience, set within a converted house. Michelin describes this “adorable osteria” as a “true family operation,” highlighting the husband-and-wife team of Francesca Penoncelli and Mario Casineri who run the kitchen. Ciccia Osteria offers a comforting and authentic Italian menu in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, reminiscent of dining in someone’s home.
Dija Mara (2021)
Where: 232 S Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054
Dija Mara, located in coastal Oceanside, is a Balinese-inspired restaurant that expertly blends Southeast Asian flavors with Western culinary techniques. Michelin inspectors enthused, “you’ll find some serious Indonesian cooking here,” and praised dishes like the charred eggplant with smoked tomato sambal and crispy fried shallots as “a textural and flavor-forward delight.” Dija Mara offers an exotic and flavorful dining adventure, showcasing the vibrant and aromatic cuisine of Indonesia in a stylish and contemporary setting.
Morning Glory (2021)
Where: 550 W Date St, San Diego, CA 92101
Morning Glory, from the innovative Consortium Holdings group, is a breakfast-and-brunch-only establishment in Little Italy known for its playful approach and exceptional food. Despite their self-deprecating website, Michelin earnestly praises Morning Glory for its “familiar-seeming favorites and of-the-moment meals — hello, avocado toast and shakshuka.” Morning Glory provides a fun and vibrant brunch experience with creative takes on classic breakfast dishes and a lively atmosphere.
Campfire (2019)
Where: 2725 State St, Carlsbad, CA 92008
Campfire in Carlsbad is a pioneering restaurant that redefined Carlsbad’s culinary scene. It’s an “ode to fire and smoke,” complete with a teepee in the back. Michelin recommends trying the brisket plate with furikake or exploring the inventive craft cocktails. Campfire offers a unique and rustic dining experience centered around wood-fired cooking, creative cocktails, and a relaxed, outdoorsy ambiance.
Cucina Urbana (2019)
Where: 505 Laurel St, San Diego, CA 92101
Cucina Urbana in Bankers Hill seamlessly blends classic Italian cuisine with a laid-back California vibe. Michelin highlights the top-notch ingredients, masterful preparation, and warm, welcoming environment. The restaurant also offers its extensive wine list at retail prices, allowing diners to take home their favorite bottles. Cucina Urbana provides a comfortable and stylish Italian dining experience with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and a vibrant atmosphere.
Juniper and Ivy (2019)
Where: 2228 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
Juniper and Ivy, situated in a 90-year-old converted warehouse, is a standout restaurant with mod artwork, oversized booths, an exhibition kitchen, and a lively bar. Guided by chef Anthony Wells, a James Beard Award nominee, the restaurant emphasizes a “chef-driven menu that uses hand-selected, seasonal ingredients crafted with precision, passion, and creativity.” Juniper and Ivy delivers a sophisticated and energetic dining experience with innovative American cuisine, a stylish setting, and a bustling bar scene.
Kettner Exchange (2019)
Where: 2001 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
Kettner Exchange features progressive American cuisine from Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski. The menu is seasonal and complemented by a cocktail menu and a wide selection of beers on tap. The rooftop lounge offers a unique setting overlooking Little Italy, with boutique wines, craft cocktails, and even self-serve beer taps in private cabanas. Kettner Exchange provides a dynamic and innovative dining experience with modern American dishes, creative cocktails, and a vibrant rooftop setting.
Lola 55 Tacos & Cocktails (2019)
Where: 1290 F St, San Diego, CA 92101
LOLA 55 in Downtown San Diego’s East Village offers a taco-focused menu with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients at accessible prices. To enhance the taco selection, there’s a full bar featuring mezcals, tequilas, and agua frescas. LOLA 55 provides a lively and casual dining experience with gourmet tacos, refreshing drinks, and a focus on quality and affordability.
New Restaurant Discoveries in San Diego
Michelin also highlights “New Discoveries” each year, recognizing restaurants that are notable and worth exploring, even if they haven’t yet received a star or Bib Gourmand.
Kingfisher (2022)
Where: 2469 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92102
Kingfisher, a Vietnamese-French restaurant in Golden Hill, impressed Michelin inspectors with Chef Jonathan Bautista’s cooking and the restaurant’s charming ambiance. Michelin noted that Kingfisher “makes a splash in its stunning Golden Hill location, which offers no shortage of charm,” and praised the “mouth-watering menu of inspired Vietnamese cooking.” Kingfisher offers a unique and elegant dining experience, blending Vietnamese and French culinary influences in a beautiful setting.
Legacy Restaurant Honorees in San Diego
These restaurants have received Michelin recognition in the past, highlighting their continued contribution to San Diego’s culinary excellence.
Sushi Tadokoro (One Michelin Star, 2021)
Where: 2244 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110
Sushi Tadokoro in Old Town earned San Diego’s first Michelin star. Michelin inspectors praised the restaurant’s dedication to providing a “delightful dining experience,” highlighting the “attention to detail” with homemade sauces and carefully prepared fish. Sushi Tadokoro offers an authentic and meticulous sushi experience, emphasizing quality ingredients and traditional techniques.
Solare Ristorante (Bib Gourmand, 2019)
Where: 2820 Roosevelt Rd, San Diego, CA 92106
Solare Ristorante, an Italian treasure, focuses on fresh, simple, and handmade dishes with a strong emphasis on seasonal produce, much of which is grown in their own garden. In addition to its Bib Gourmand recognition, Solare has also earned the prestigious Tre Gamberi award from Gambero Rosso, similar to a Michelin star. Solare Ristorante offers a rustic and genuine Italian dining experience with a commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients and traditional flavors.
San Diego’s Michelin-recognized restaurants offer a diverse range of culinary experiences, from exquisite fine dining to exceptional value and innovative cuisine. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, exploring these establishments provides a delicious journey into the heart of San Diego’s thriving gastronomic scene.
