Food & Drink

Salad Spectacular: 16 Fresh and Flavorful Picks in San Diego!

San Diego is a city that has no shortage of delicious food options, and salads are no exception.

Whether you're a health enthusiast or just looking for a light meal, there are plenty of fantastic salads to choose from in this city. From fresh greens to unique toppings, San Diego's salad scene is truly something to behold.

Whether you're into classic salads like Caesar or Cobb, or prefer something more adventurous, San Diego has you covered.

Many local restaurants and cafes have taken the traditional salad and elevated it to new heights, adding unique ingredients and creative dressings that will leave your taste buds singing.

But it's not just about the toppings – the quality of the greens themselves is equally important.

Luckily, San Diego is home to numerous farmers markets and organic farms, so you can rest assured that your salad is made from the freshest, most nutritious ingredients possible.

So whether you're a local looking to mix up your lunch routine or a visitor trying to find the best salads in town, you're sure to find something delicious in San Diego.

So grab a fork and get ready to explore the city's vibrant salad scene!

1. The Crack Shack – Little Italy

The Crack Shack - Little Italy
2266 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

The Crack Shack in Little Italy serves up a delicious and fresh Anti Salad.

Packed with smoked chicken, quinoa, greens, and a hard-boiled egg, this salad is a great option for those looking for a healthier meal.

The Crack Shack's outdoor seating area adds to the overall experience, making it a great spot to enjoy a tasty salad on a sunny day.

2. The Market Place

The Market Place
2601 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103 (Google Maps)

The Market Place offers a wide selection of pre-made salads that are both delicious and affordable.

Customers rave about the Balsamic Chicken and Cobb salads, but with so many options to choose from, it's hard to pick just one favorite.

Despite being a busy spot, the employees handle the lunch rush efficiently and always maintain a friendly demeanor.

Whether you're looking for a quick bite or household essentials, The Market Place is a great spot to visit.

3. Donna Jean

Donna Jean
2949 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103 (Google Maps)

Donna Jean's Really Good Salad is a must-try for any vegan food enthusiast. The combination of flavors is high quality and very flavorful, leaving you feeling good about your choice to be vegan.

The pickled raisins are surprisingly good, and the salad is well-dressed and fresh.

The cozy setting and nice decor make it a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner.

The staff is friendly and accommodating, making the dining experience even more enjoyable. If you're in the mood for creative vegan fare, Donna Jean is the place to be.

4. Cheba Hut

Cheba Hut

The Cheba Hut salad is a must-try for anyone looking for a healthy and delicious meal. Packed with fresh veggies and served with the best ranch dressing, this salad is a treat for the taste buds.

The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring quick service. The salad is customizable, and there are plenty of sides and drinks to choose from.

The atmosphere is laid-back, making it a perfect spot for a quick lunch or dinner. The prices are reasonable, making it an excellent value for the money.

If you're in the mood for something healthy and tasty, head over to Cheba Hut and try their salad.

5. Our Green Affair

Our Green Affair
980 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109 (Google Maps)

Looking for a healthy and delicious salad option in town that is both vegan and vegetarian-friendly, look no further than Our Green Affair.

This salad is packed with fresh and tasty ingredients, including kale, sunflower seeds, and hummus.

While the dressing may be lacking in flavor, the overall quality of the ingredients makes up for it.

The staff is knowledgeable and helpful, and the atmosphere is welcoming and bright. Give Our Green Affair a try for a satisfying, guilt-free meal!

6. Urbane Cafe

Urbane Cafe
5375 Napa St, San Diego, CA 92110 (Google Maps)

The Urbane Cafe salad is a must-try for anyone looking for a healthy and satisfying meal.

The salad is packed with fresh ingredients and the portions are generous. The chicken is well-cooked and flavorful while the greens are crisp and crunchy.

The salad is a great value for its price and the staff is friendly and efficient. The only downside is that the interior could use a deep cleaning.

Despite this, the Urbane Cafe salad is a great option for anyone looking for a quick and delicious meal.

7. Herb & Wood

Herb & Wood
2210 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

The Herb & Wood salad is a fresh and flavorful dish that perfectly embodies the restaurant's emphasis on local ingredients and inventive flavors.

The mix of greens is perfectly complemented by the addition of fresh herbs and spices, while the dressing adds a tangy kick.

The salad is a great option for those looking for a lighter meal or as a refreshing starter to a larger meal.

It's clear that a lot of thought and care went into the creation of this dish, and it's definitely worth trying out when visiting the restaurant.

8. True Food Kitchen

True Food Kitchen
7007 Friars Rd Suite 394, San Diego, CA 92108 (Google Maps)

The True Food Kitchen salad is a must-try for health-conscious foodies.

Packed with fresh, plant-based ingredients bursting with flavor, this dish is a delicious and nutritious option.

The restaurant offers a variety of vegan and gluten-free options, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions.

The atmosphere is relaxed and eco-chic, and the staff is friendly and accommodating. Don't miss out on this fantastic dining experience!

9. BB's Deli

Bb's Deli
1321 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

BB's Deli offers a variety of fresh salads that are perfect for a quick and healthy lunch.

The ingredients are always crisp and flavorful, and the portion sizes are generous. The staff is friendly and accommodating, making the ordering process a breeze.

The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy a delicious meal.

Whether you're in the mood for a classic Caesar or a more unique option, BB's Deli has something for everyone. Don't miss out on their tasty salads!

10. MAKE pizza+salad

Make Pizza+Salad
699 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

The salad at MAKE pizza+salad is a fresh and delicious option for those looking for a lighter meal.

With a variety of toppings to choose from, customers can customize their salads to their liking.

The ingredients are fresh and not processed, making for a healthy and satisfying meal.

The modern and trendy setting adds to the overall dining experience.

11. The Greenspot Salad Company

The Greenspot Salad Company
2075 Camino De La Reina Suite B, San Diego, CA 92108 (Google Maps)

The Greenspot Salad Company is a must-visit for anyone looking for fresh, healthy food.

With a variety of options to choose from, including vegan and vegetarian choices, there is something for everyone. The portions are generous and the ingredients are of high quality.

The staff is friendly and the service is quick. Don't miss the chance to try their house-made dressings and the potato wedges.

This is a great spot for a quick lunch or takeout. The Greenspot Salad Company is a gem that should not be missed.

12. Al Teatro Panini Grill

Al Teatro Panini Grill
1254 3rd Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

The Al Teatro Panini Grill salad is a must-try for anyone who loves fresh and flavorful greens. This European-inspired cafe offers a variety of salads, but this one stands out.

The combination of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese is simply delicious.

The salad is topped with a homemade balsamic vinaigrette that perfectly complements the fresh ingredients.

The cozy and stylish atmosphere of the cafe makes for a perfect lunch spot. Don't miss out on this gem of a salad.

13. Urban Plates

Urban Plates
12857 El Camino Real, San Diego, CA 92130 (Google Maps)

Looking for a salad that is fresh, healthy, and deliciously satisfying all at the same time, Urban Plates has got you covered.

With a focus on organic, sustainable, and fresh food, this chef-driven restaurant serves up scratch-made plates, salads, sandwiches, and bowls that are perfect for dine-in or to-go.

Whether you're in the mood for an Asian Chicken Salad with crispy wontons and spicy peanut dressing or a Sustainable Grilled Salmon with dijon honey mustard, Urban Plates has something for everyone.

So why not head over and try their salads today!

14. &bar Hillcrest

&Bar Hillcrest
1023 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103 (Google Maps)

Looking for a healthy and satisfying meal in town that won't disappoint your taste buds or wallet, then head over to &bar Hillcrest.

With over 20 salad options to choose from, there's something for everyone. Each salad is made fresh to order and served in a large 48 oz bowl, making it perfect for sharing or taking home leftovers.

The ingredients are always fresh, and the salads are visually appealing, making them perfect for Instagram-worthy photos.

With the option to add your own dressing and shake to mix, you can customize your salad to your liking. &bar Hillcrest is a must-try for anyone looking for a fresh and delicious salad experience.

15. Matisse Bistro

Matisse Bistro
501 W Broadway SUITE 103, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Matisse Bistro offers fresh and delicious salads with bold flavors that won't break the bank.

Their Mediterranean Chicken Pesto salad with a side of chipotle sauce is a must-try.

The staff is friendly and attentive, and the eco-conscious serve ware and takeout containers make this restaurant a great choice for those who care about the environment.

Stop by Matisse Bistro for a satisfying salad experience in the city center.

16. Gaslamp Eatery

Gaslamp Eatery
732 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

If you're looking for a tasty salad, Gaslamp Eatery is the place to go.

The salads are fresh and flavourful, with a variety of ingredients to choose from. You won't be disappointed with the generous portions either.

The customer service is fantastic, making for a pleasant dining experience.

Don't forget to try the other menu items too, as they are equally delicious. Gaslamp Eatery is definitely worth a visit.