2 Best Restaurants in San Diego, California

Coasterra

$$$ | Harbor Island
Swathed in murals, intricate light fixtures, breezy outdoor seating, and a cushy interior, this massive waterfront destination has one of the best skyline views in the city, making it a top spot for Mexican craft cocktails and bayfront dining. The menu veers toward modern Mexican with starters like tableside guacamole, tuna tostadas, and crispy calamari; be sure to try their organic margaritas or various agave-based libations. For something more substantial, go for Chef Deborah Scott's fish-and-chips or chicken enchiladas. The menu is somewhat pricey but worth every penny to dine on top of the water with an unobstructed view of downtown.

The Blind Burro

$$

East Village families, baseball fans heading to or from Petco Park, and happy-hour-bound singles flock to this airy restaurant with Baja-inspired food and drink. Traditional margaritas get a fresh kick from fruit juices or jalapeño peppers; other libations include sangria and Mexican beers, all perfect pairings for house-made guacamole, ceviche, or salsas with chips. The menu doesn't include enchiladas or burritos, but the well-loved lobster and surf-and-turf tacos and extensive and innovative tortas like an Angus short rib topped with pico de gallo, and side dishes including Mexican-style corn dressed in cotija cheese as well as serrano-spiced pinto beans, more than make up for it. Save room for warm, cinnamon-sugar churros.