San Diego is a city that truly has something for everyone, including a diverse array of appetizers that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Whether you're looking for something light and refreshing or something indulgent and hearty, San Diego's restaurants and cafes have you covered.
From classic American pub fare to international cuisine, the city's food scene is constantly evolving and expanding. And with so many options, it can be hard to know where to start.
That's why we've put together a list of the best places for appetizers in San Diego, so you can spend less time searching and more time savoring.
Whether you're a local or just visiting, this guide will help you discover some of the most delicious and creative appetizers the city has to offer.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to explore the culinary delights of San Diego.
1. The Lion's Share
The Lion's Share is a chic and moody cocktail bar that serves up delicious appetizers.
The menu features exotic game meats and unique flavor combinations that are sure to surprise and delight. The craft cocktails are expertly prepared and pair perfectly with the small plates.
The atmosphere is intimate and cozy, making it a great spot for a date or a night out with friends.
If you're looking for a place to try something new and exciting, The Lion's Share is definitely worth a visit.
2. CUCINA urbana
CUCINA urbana is a trendy Italian eatery with a unique concept of selecting wine off the wall. The food is made with pure ingredients and fresh flavors.
The restaurant offers outside seating and a pizza bar where customers can watch their pizza being made. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, providing excellent service.
The menu includes a variety of appetizers, such as fried squash blossoms, meatballs, and grilled octopus, which are all outstanding.
The short rib pappardelle is cooked to perfection, and the tiramisu is a must-try dessert. The ambiance is inviting and calming, making it a great spot to enjoy quality food with excellent service.
3. Juniper & Ivy
Juniper & Ivy is a trendy and upscale restaurant that serves imaginative New American appetizers. The spacious and modern restaurant has a woody and arty ambiance.
The staff is beyond accommodating, friendly, and helpful. The restaurant is great for date night and the service is impeccable.
The appetizers and small plates are excellent and set high expectations for the entrees. The cocktails are good, and the wine is excellent.
The restaurant is a bit pricey, but the food and beverage are amazing. If you're looking for a unique dining experience, Juniper & Ivy is the place to be.
4. Mister A's
Mister A's offers an upscale dining experience with expansive views of the city skyline. The French-hued American cuisine is impeccable, and the presentation of the food is impeccable.
The service is outstanding, and the atmosphere is perfect for a special occasion or intimate night out.
The appetizers, including the octopus and mussels, are amazing and well worth trying.
The prices are reasonable for the quality of the food, service, and view. Mister A's is a San Diego institution that should not be missed.
5. insideOUT
Looking for a trendy spot to grab some delicious appetizers with friends or family in a lively atmosphere, then insideOUT is the place to be.
This modern bar and restaurant boasts a menu featuring California and Mediterranean-inspired dishes and drinks in a unique space with a pool. The star of the menu is the Dauphinoise Potatoes, splendidly creamy, yet firm and just the right amount of cheese.
The limited menu may not have a lot of variety, but what they do have is done exceptionally well. The service is on point, and the ambiance is unique, with half the restaurant open to the outside on multiple levels.
It's a great place to spend a long time eating a meal, and the atmosphere is always Instagram-ready when the food arrives.
6. The Smoking Goat Restaurant
The Smoking Goat Restaurant is a French-American bistro that offers an upscale farmhouse vibe in a country-chic space.
The seasonal menu is filled with delicious appetizers that are perfect for sharing. The restaurant's duck liver pate, baked brie, and crispy Spanish octopus are must-try dishes.
The attentive and friendly waitstaff is knowledgeable about the menu and is always ready to answer any questions.
The Smoking Goat Restaurant is a great place to enjoy a night out with friends or a romantic dinner with a loved one.
7. Wet Stone Wine Bar & Cafe
Wet Stone Wine Bar & Cafe is a rustic-chic wine bar that serves small plates. They have a well-curated wine list, craft brews, and eclectic small plates that are bursting with flavor.
The ambiance is cozy and relaxed, making it a great spot to unwind and enjoy a glass of wine and some appetizers.
The wait staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the menu, making recommendations easy.
If you're looking for a unique and refined dining experience, Wet Stone Wine Bar & Cafe is definitely worth a visit.
8. Craft & Commerce
Craft & Commerce is a hip gastropub that offers handcrafted cocktails and farm-fresh fare.
The taxidermy and old books lining the walls add to the trendy ambiance of the place. The seasonal eats and craft cocktails are the highlights of the menu.
The Korean BBQ wings and chili with steak are fabulous appetizers.
The rib-eye is a bit pricey but worth the rich wood fire smoke it was cooked on. The place is perfect for a night out with friends or a date.
9. The Corner Drafthouse
The Corner Drafthouse is a must-visit spot for those looking for delicious appetizers and drinks.
The menu offers a variety of options to choose from, including the must-have hummus plate and amazing cauliflower buffalo bites. The atmosphere is open and airy, making it a great place to hang out with friends.
The service is on point and the staff is friendly. With over 70 beers on tap, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
The outdoor seating is dog-friendly and the staff is attentive. The Corner Drafthouse is a great place to enjoy a meal or drinks with friends.
10. Vinarius Wine Bar & Restaurant
Vinarius Wine Bar & Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for high-quality appetizers.
With impeccable service and a warm atmosphere, this Italian restaurant is perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic evening. The lamb ossu buco is a standout dish, with tender meat and a flavorful ragu sauce.
The flatbread appetizer is also a must-try, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, offering great wine suggestions to pair with your meal.
Vinarius Wine Bar & Restaurant is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for a great appetizer experience.
11. Top of the Market
Top of the Market is a fine dining restaurant that offers high-end seafood and bay views in an elegant atmosphere.
The appetizers here are a must-try, as they are flavorful and delicious. The clam chowder and prawn cocktail are particularly noteworthy.
The restaurant is located upstairs from the Fish Market and features a white-tablecloth setting, making it a great place for special occasions.
The service here is excellent, and the waitstaff is attentive and accommodating. Reservations are recommended for those looking to enjoy a memorable dining experience.
12. Herb & Wood
Herb & Wood is a Californian fine dining restaurant that offers a variety of appetizers. The restaurant has a chic and rustic ambiance that adds to the dining experience.
The appetizers are creative and well-prepared, with a nice variety to choose from. The whipped feta toast and chopped salad are both delicious and fresh.
The pork belly is a must-try, with a sauce that complements the dish perfectly. The service is professional and attentive, making for a pleasant dining experience.
Though on the pricey side, Herb & Wood is definitely worth it for a special occasion or a night out.
13. Kettner Exchange
Kettner Exchange is a trendy American eatery that specializes in handcrafted cocktails and small plates.
The menu offers a creative twist on classic dishes with global flavors. The food is well-presented and bursting with flavor.
The rooftop lounge provides a beautiful ambiance and is perfect for special occasions. The service is top-notch with friendly and knowledgeable staff.
The portions are small, so be prepared to order several dishes to share. The drinks are unique and delicious, making it a great spot for a night out with friends.
14. Knotty Barrel
Looking for a gastropub with a wide selection of craft beers and creative American eats in a laid-back atmosphere, then Knotty Barrel is the place to be.
The menu offers a variety of appetizers, including the delicious sweet-spicy cauliflower and warm soft pretzels with beer cheese dip.
The staff is attentive and provides excellent service. The outdoor patio is perfect for enjoying a meal with friends or family.
The atmosphere is casual and fun, making it a great spot to catch up with friends or watch the game. Whether you're a beer aficionado or just looking for a tasty bite, Knotty Barrel is definitely worth checking out.
15. Nolita Hall
Nolita Hall is an elevated beer hall that serves up delicious appetizers. The industrial ambiance is airy and inviting, making it perfect for watching sports on their large TVs.
The charcuterie board and salad are tasty and filling, while the drinks are phenomenal.
The alternating menu of wood-fired pizzas is unique and flavorful. The outdoor seating is preferred, but the flight status board inside adds to the fun atmosphere.
Nolita Hall is highly recommended for those looking for a great spot to hangout, snack, and eat.
16. Common Theory
Common Theory is a gastropub that serves up appetizers with an Asian twist. The spacious, dark-wood interior sets the mood for a casual dining experience.
The menu offers a variety of unique and flavorful dishes, including pork belly mac and cheese, Thai chicken flatbread, and calamari served with sweet and spicy sauce.
The beer selection is extensive, with a focus on local craft brews. The staff is friendly and attentive, making for a pleasant dining experience.
The prices are a bit on the expensive side, but the quality of the food makes it worth it. Common Theory is a great spot for a night out with friends or a casual dinner.
17. Water Grill San Diego
Water Grill San Diego is a high-end seafood restaurant with an extensive raw bar.
The ambience is pleasant, and the service is exceptional. The Asiago rolls are a must-try and the oysters are particularly good.
The menu is expensive, but the quality of food and service make it worth the price.
The outdoor seating at night sets this place apart from others nearby. Highly recommended for those looking for a sophisticated dining experience.
18. Glass Door Restaurant
Glass Door Restaurant offers delicious appetizers with surprising large portions at reasonable prices.
The craft cocktails are excellent, and the bartenders are knowledgeable and friendly. The outdoor seating offers fantastic views of the harbor and downtown.
The happy hour menu has great items, including the tasty bacon-wrapped dates and the delicious tuna with grapefruit and peppers.
The staff is professional and attentive, making for a great dining experience. The restaurant is trendy and stylish, perfect for a night out with friends or a date.
