San Diego is a city known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a plethora of dining options. However, if you are a meat lover, then steakhouses are the perfect place to satisfy your cravings.
San Diego has an abundance of steakhouses that offer the finest cuts of meat, cooked to perfection and served with a variety of sides and sauces.
Whether you are looking for a classic steakhouse experience or something more modern and innovative, San Diego has something for everyone.
From upscale establishments to more casual spots, the city boasts a diverse range of steakhouses that offer a unique dining experience.
But with so many options available, it can be tough to decide where to go. That's why we've put together a list of the best steakhouses in San Diego. We've scoured the city to find the most mouth-watering steaks, the coziest atmospheres, and the best service.
Whether you're a local or just visiting, this guide will help you find the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious steak dinner. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to discover the best steakhouses San Diego has to offer.
1. Eddie V's Prime Seafood
Eddie V's Prime Seafood is an elegant fine-dining steakhouse with a seafood menu. The restaurant features a cocktail lounge with live jazz music.
The restaurant's South African Lobster Tails and Calamari appetizer are highly recommended.
The service is friendly and efficient, and the atmosphere is upscale and sophisticated.
Eddie V's Prime Seafood is an excellent choice for a special occasion or a romantic night out.
2. Island Prime
Island Prime is a sleek waterfront steakhouse with stunning skyline views. The restaurant serves Californian cuisine and specializes in steak.
The ambiance is intimate and romantic, making it a perfect spot for a special occasion.
The crafted cocktails are unique and delicious, and the service is exceptional. The Mishima Ultra New York steak is a standout dish, bursting with flavor.
While the prices are on the higher side, the quality of food and service make it worth it. Reservations are highly recommended.
3. Ruth's Chris Steak House
Ruth's Chris Steak House is a well-known, upmarket chain that serves sizzling, butter-topped beef in an elegant setting. The steakhouse offers a fine dining experience with excellent and attentive service.
The food is superb, with the filet steak being the standout dish. The creamed spinach, Brussels sprouts, and Au gratin potatoes are fantastic sides that complement the steak perfectly.
The restaurant decor is pleasant, and the atmosphere is tranquil, making it an ideal place for a romantic dinner or celebration. The views of the harbor across the street are breathtaking.
Although the prices are reasonable, be prepared to pay city prices for parking. Ruth’s Chris Steak House is an outstanding choice for anyone who wants to indulge in delicious food and impeccable service.
4. Born and Raised
Born and Raised is a swanky two-story steakhouse and bar that offers a modern and upscale dining experience.
The glitzy decor and rooftop patio add to the ambiance of the restaurant. The steak and sides are amazing, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor.
The cocktails are also top-notch, made with great attention to detail. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring a great dining experience.
The only downside is the high price point, but it's worth it for the quality of food and service.
5. Turf Supper Club
Turf Supper Club is a classic steakhouse with a unique twist. Guests get to cook their own steaks on a communal grill, adding a fun and interactive element to their dining experience.
The steaks are reasonably priced and the staff is attentive, making for an enjoyable meal.
The retro cocktail lounge and kitschy cowboy decor add to the overall ambiance of this neighborhood haunt.
If you're looking for a dive bar with great food and a lively atmosphere, Turf Supper Club is the place to be.
6. Cowboy Star Restaurant and Butcher Shop
Cowboy Star Restaurant and Butcher Shop is an innovative American steakhouse with a rustic-chic ambiance.
The menu features standard meat as well as ofal and wild game. The aged beef is reasonably priced and sourced from nice ranches. The wine selection is decent.
The service is great, even during busy times. The steak tartar and mushrooms are highly recommended. The large bar offers a nice place to wait for a table.
Cowboy Star Restaurant and Butcher Shop is a great local steakhouse with an intimate feel and excellent dry aged meat options.
7. Puerto La Boca
Puerto La Boca is an elegant Argentinean steakhouse that serves up some of the best steaks in town.
The quality of the meat is exceptional and melts in your mouth. The rice and blue cheese sauce perfectly complement the steak, and the salad is amazing.
The staff is caring and prompt, making for a great dining experience. The prices are moderate, but the quality is well worth it.
The outdoor patio seating is a nice touch, and the wine and dessert options are excellent. If you're looking for a great steakhouse, Puerto La Boca is definitely worth a visit.
8. Carvers Steaks & Chops
Carvers Steaks & Chops is an excellent dining establishment with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The food is always prepared to perfection, especially their scrumptious steaks and sauces.
Their menu has a great selection of salads and appetizers to start your meal. The restaurant has a good wine menu and delicious dessert choices.
The service is outstanding, and the staff is polite and respectful. The prices are fair, and the quantities are substantial.
The restaurant is an old-school steakhouse that delivers good food at a good price with really good service. If you enjoy honestly good food and fair prices, then you will love Carvers Steaks & Chops.
9. Lou & Mickey's
Lou & Mickey's is a steakhouse that offers a smart and swanky dining experience.
Known for their steakhouse staples and tropical cocktails, the restaurant has an outdoor patio where diners can enjoy their meals.
The surf 'n' turf dishes are a must-try, and the menu also includes fresh seafood and aged steaks.
The attentive and friendly wait staff makes the dining experience even more enjoyable. Lou & Mickey's is a great place to go for a special occasion or a fancy night out.
10. Morton's The Steakhouse
Morton's The Steakhouse is an upscale chain restaurant that serves aged prime beef and seafood in a clubby space.
The food is exceptional, and the service is top-notch. The restaurant is perfect for special occasions or a night out with friends and family.
The ambiance is cozy and comfortable, making it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner. The prices are high, but the quality of the food and the service make it worth the cost.
If you're looking for a memorable dining experience, Morton's The Steakhouse is definitely worth a visit.
11. Rei Do Gado Brazilian Steakhouse
Rei Do Gado Brazilian Steakhouse serves up delicious Brazilian meats and an ample salad bar.
The staff is attentive and professional, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.
The cheese bread is a must-try, and the cinnamon honey grilled pineapple is a standout dish.
While it can be expensive, the quality of food and service make it worth the price. Reservations are recommended as it can get busy.
12. Rare Society
Rare Society is a fashionable steakhouse that offers specialty steaks and seafood. The restaurant has a stylish decor and offers a great ambiance for a dinner experience.
The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, which adds to the overall experience. The menu is well-crafted and the steaks are cooked to perfection.
The sides are also worth a try, especially the creamed truffle spinach. The cocktails are unique and made with top-notch mixology.
The desserts are also highly recommended, especially the Buttercake. Rare Society is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys meat and wants a great dining experience.
13. Red Fox Room and Steakhouse
Red Fox Room and Steakhouse is a classic, old-school steakhouse with a warm and cozy ambiance.
The dimly lit dining room is inspired by an old British inn and features a piano bar. The menu offers delicious surf 'n' turf options and the steak is cooked to perfection.
The service is excellent and the staff is friendly and attentive. The prices are reasonable and the portions are generous.
If you're looking for a traditional steakhouse experience, Red Fox Room and Steakhouse is definitely worth a visit.
14. Moe's
Moe's is an old-school steakhouse with a great atmosphere and friendly service.
The food is amazing and the menu has plenty of choices for vegetarians.
The cocktails are top-notch and the happy hour deals are unbeatable. The only downside is the limited beer selection.
All in all, Moe's is a must-visit for anyone looking for a high-end yet low-key dining experience.
15. The Butcher Shop
The Butcher Shop is a classic 1950s steakhouse with an old-world elegance. The Chicago-style chophouse offers simple meat mains in a refined, retro space.
The food is consistently good and the staff is professional and attentive. The upscale atmosphere and bar add to the dining experience.
While some reviewers have noted occasional issues with undercooked steaks and slow service, the overall consensus is positive.
The Butcher Shop is a great choice for those looking for a more formal sit-down dining experience and quality steak cooked to perfection.
16. Imperial Steakhouse & Bar
Imperial Steakhouse & Bar is a hidden gem that offers a nostalgic feel and excellent service. The in-house steak and other dishes are exceptional, while the live piano music in the bar area adds to the overall atmosphere.
The old-world elegance of the restaurant is a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
The tableside dishes and classic cocktails are a must-try, and the attentive staff makes the dining experience even more enjoyable.
If you're looking for a great steakhouse, Imperial Steakhouse & Bar is definitely worth checking out.
17. Saltwater Seafood & Steak
Saltwater Seafood & Steak offers an exceptional dining experience with outstanding food and service.
The steak and seafood dishes are cooked to perfection, and the restaurant's menu has a variety of options to choose from. The atmosphere is elegant and relaxing, with both indoor and outdoor seating available.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making sure that every guest feels welcomed and satisfied.
Saltwater Seafood & Steak is the perfect place for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends, and it's highly recommended for anyone looking for quality food and a great dining experience.
18. Fogo de Chao Brazilian Steakhouse
Fogo de Chao Brazilian Steakhouse is an upscale Brazilian chain that offers all-you-can-eat meat carved tableside and an extensive salad bar.
With attentive service and a variety of meats, this steakhouse is perfect for a meat lover looking for a unique dining experience.
The salad bar has a nice variety of salads and fruit to complement the meat. The atmosphere is cozy, and the staff is friendly and helpful.
Although it's on the pricier side, the quality of food and service makes it worth the cost.
19. STK Steakhouse
STK Steakhouse offers a top-notch dining experience with excellent food and service. The ambiance is lively and modern, with a DJ playing great music.
The menu offers a variety of dishes, including delicious steaks and seafood. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, making every guest feel welcome.
The cocktails are well-crafted and the wine selection is impressive. Although prices are on the higher side, the quality of the food and service make it worth it.
If you want a memorable dining experience, STK Steakhouse is definitely worth a visit.
