From Dumpling Bars to French Steakhouses, These Newbies Are Worth Visiting
With its unique and ever-evolving culinary scene, San Diego is an epic foodie destination that has it all. Whether in the mood for farm-to-table freshness and inventive cocktails or Asian fusion and craft beer, you can find it in America’s Finest City. We’ve rounded up a list of 14 new San Diego restaurants that have recently popped up. And don’t worry—we’ve checked them out ahead of time to make sure they’re worth the trip. From dumpling bars to French steakhouses and everything in between, these new restaurants in San Diego are sure to hit the spot.
Merenda Bistro and Wine Bar
The newest addition to the burgeoning Oceanside food and drink scene is Merenda Wine Bar, which swung open its doors this summer. Merenda brands itself as a “wine shop with housemade snacks and more.” The wine bar is owned by Aaron Crossland and Lauren Crossland-Marr, the latter of whom has a doctorate in food anthropology. Perhaps that is why, in addition to its wine, Merenda offers a stellar charcuterie program featuring salumi and artisanal cheeses. Tapas and Southern European-style small plates also grace the menu, and visitors will also soon be able to enjoy wine tastings and wine education classes.
Location: Oceanside
31THIRTYONE
Chef Drew Deckman is a bona fide culinary legend, having earned Michelin stars both in Europe and in Baja California. And as of this past August, the renowned chef has brought his chops to North Park. 31THIRTYONE offers daily oyster selections, a private label caviar service, an a la carte menu and two tasting menu experiences with optional beverage pairings. The new restaurant in San Diego even features a four-course market-driven menu, as well as a more exclusive chef’s counter experience seating up to 10 in front of the kitchen. Guests can also look forward to kicking back on the rooftop deck, sipping cocktails and snacking on tasty small plates.
Location: North Park
Roma Norte
Located at The Headquarters at Seaport Village, Roma Norte is a stunning homage to Mexico City’s renowned cocktail culture. Created by the team behind Puesto and Marisi, Roma Norte’s bar program pushes boundaries with modern techniques like forced carbonation, nitro muddling and lacto-fermentation. Signature drinks include the Maduro Highball, a South American-inspired cocktail made with Brazilian cachaça and plantains. On the other hand, the Another Word is an elegant mezcal cocktail served over shaved ice crafted by a Japanese Kakigōri machine.
Chef Erik Aronow’s menu complements the bar’s flair with shareable bites. These include options like the Scallop Tostada, featuring avocado, finger lime and cilantro, and like the Torta de Milanesa, a veal sandwich with spicy cabbage and pickled onions. The space itself mirrors Mexico City’s blend of old-world charm and modern style. Expect plush velvet furniture, bronze accents and lush greenery.
Location: Downtown San Diego
AKA
Located in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, AKA combines a sleek Asian fusion menu with a vibrant nightlife vibe. Chef Takuya Kudo’s culinary creations are inspired by Chinese, Japanese and Thai cuisines, blending bold flavors with refined techniques. Standout dishes include Kung Pao Lobster, Wagyu Tataki and Thai Basil Scallops. The atmosphere transitions from upscale dining to a pulsating nightlife destination with live music and DJs on weekends. Meanwhile, mixologist Gerardo Bedolla adds to the experience with meticulously crafted cocktails like the Spiced Sakura Martini and Yuzu Negroni. The glamorous interiors, designed by Cassandra Builer, feature modern Asian-inspired accents. This creates a setting perfect for celebrations or sophisticated nights out.
Location: Gaslamp Quarter
Leila
CH Projects’ latest venture, Leila, celebrates Middle Eastern flavors in an opulent setting. The menu invites communal dining with Salatim Platters, offering housemade spreads like zhoug, muhammara and cucumber yogurt paired with freshly baked Barbari bread. Larger plates like the Braised Lamb Shank with tahdig and the Whole Fish in a Cage with red chermoula and tarator are perfect for sharing. On the other hand, cocktail enthusiasts will love the Majda, a Moroccan spritz with mint tea and sparkling wine. The restaurant’s interior channels the vibrant souks of Morocco, featuring intricate millwork, a starry ceiling and a custom clay oven imported from the UK that ensures authenticity in every dish.
Location: North Park
The Beverly Beach Garden
After an extensive renovation, The Beverly Beach Garden has transformed Pacific Beach’s El Prez into a three-story paradise of coastal California elegance. Chef Lizzie Lopez delivers a menu full of inventive dishes. Highlights include Birria Dumplings with Morita chili oil, Swordfish Tiradito with kimchi aioli, and Sugar-Spiced Salmon with mascarpone mashed potatoes.
The rooftop is adorned with lush greenery and fire pits, offering stunning ocean views. It’s the perfect spot for sunset dining. The Tulum-inspired decor combines coastal charm with a relaxed vibe. Whether you’re planning a casual afternoon or an upscale evening, The Beverly Beach Garden is an ideal choice.
Location: Pacific Beach
Dumpling Bar
Encinitas’ Dumpling Bar brings the art of handmade dumplings to North County. The open kitchen offers diners a front-row seat to the creation of dishes like Xiao Long Bao, Kurobuta Pork and Shrimp Dumplings and spicy Chicken Wontons in Chili Sauce. The menu also includes playful innovations like Thumb Buns, mini pan-fried buns served atop glasses of Thai tea or boba milk tea. Ultimately, sweet options like Black Sesame Dessert Dumplings round out the experience. With its intimate setting and dedication to craftsmanship, Dumpling Bar is a must-visit for fans of Chinese comfort food.
Location: Encinitas
Flora (coming soon!)
North Park’s culinary scene is about to get brighter with the arrival of Flora, a cosmopolitan-inspired bistro offering modern twists on classic dishes. Led by husband-and-wife duo Nino Cusimano and Ocean Mohamadi, this new restaurant in San Diego promises an eclectic menu and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Brunch highlights include Matcha Waffles with peach compote and orange ricotta mousse, savory Shakshuka Eggs and the indulgent Flora Charcuterie, a shareable spread of eggs, pastries, bacon and pistachio gelato. Dinner transitions to hearty options like Crispy Duck Meatballs and Sous Vide Duck. Meanwhile, Flora’s drink offerings feature specialty coffees, fresh smoothies and inventive cocktails like the Cantaloupe & Olive Oil Martini and the spicy Peach & Jalapeño Margarita.
Location: North Park
Slowly Restaurant & Lounge
Located in Little Italy, Slowly brings a Mediterranean menu with Baja influences crafted by Chef Yadira Cuevas. Start with vibrant appetizers like the Carrot Salad with pickled beets and Fresno chili or Beef Skewers glazed with apple whiskey. For mains, the Herb-Marinated Chicken with chimichurri and Sweet and Slow Pork Chop with guajillo sauce showcase the chef’s skill and passion at this new San Diego restaurant. Additionally, the cocktail menu is equally imaginative. It features standouts like the Tranquil Tiki Dream and the luxe Christine adorned with edible gold flakes. Slowly’s interiors exude warmth, with earth tones, gold accents and local murals. This creates an inviting space for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings.
Location: Little Italy
Communion
Communion is Mission Hills’ newest rooftop gem, offering panoramic views and globally inspired cuisine. Chef Mike Moritz delivers striking dishes like Kaluga Caviar with crème fraîche and Coconut Milk Poached Seabass in a tom yum broth. Pastry Chef Aly Lyng impresses with desserts like the innovative Raspberry Lychee Pavlova. Meanwhile, the cocktail program takes center stage with drinks like the Shakti, featuring pandan-infused gin. Communion’s ambiance, from its sweeping views to its chic decor, makes it a standout destination for special occasions or laid-back evenings.
Location: Mission Hills
Pony Boy
The Pearl Hotel, a mid-century modern gem in Point Loma, has entered a new era with the debut of Ponyboy, a 60s-inspired bar and restaurant. Helmed by Addison alums Ian Ward and Danny Romero under their new hospitality group, Service Animals, Ponyboy pays homage to the rebellious spirit of S.E. Hinton’s novel “The Outsiders.” The reimagined space blends nostalgic American comfort with a modern twist. It reflects the innovative, artistic and youthful energy of the era. The menu marries local, seasonal ingredients with whimsical takes on classic dishes, all set in a vibe that’s both familiar and refreshingly unique. Feast on everything from pineapple fritters and ratatouille kebabs al pastor to barbacoa beef stroganoff and navy beans and bone marrow. The poolside restaurant even features a Golden Hour menu (offered 4-5 p.m. daily) with $1 offerings like oysters, deviled eggs and Swedish meatballs!
Location: Point Loma
Barra Oliba
Little Italy gains a taste of Spain with Barra Oliba. This tapas and wine bar offers traditional flavors with a modern twist. The chic yet cozy interiors extend to sidewalk seating, capturing the European café vibe. Co-owners Eduardo Bustamante and Ernesto Casillas bring their passion for Spanish cuisine to every dish. This makes Barra Oliba a delightful addition to the Little Italy neighborhood. The menu includes Jamon Iberico, Crudo of Kampachi and Mojama, a salt-cured tuna delicacy. Pair these with sustainable Spanish wines, a refreshing sangria or a glass of caña beer.
Location: Little Italy
Haven Farm + Table
Located in Encinitas, Haven Farm + Table offers the ultimate farm-to-table dining experience. Ingredients come directly from the surrounding three-acre organic farm, ensuring every dish is hyper-local and seasonal. Chef Kelston Moore’s menu includes creative plates like Carrots al Pastor with smoked corn foam and Jerk Pork Belly Mole. The greenhouse-inspired design overlooks the farm’s vegetable rows, creating a serene dining setting. With plans for guest chef dinners and a CSA program, Haven Farm + Table is a shining example of sustainable, community-focused dining in San Diego.
Location: Encinitas
Le Coq
La Jolla’s Le Coq reimagines the classic French steakhouse with a SoCal flair. Led by James Beard-nominated Chef Tara Monsod, the menu features bold, refined dishes like Steak Tartare with Sea Urchin and Escargot en Croûte. The 1970s supper club-inspired design combines industrial elements with luxurious touches like velvet booths and lacquered wood accents. Don’t miss the Roman Empress Cocktail, a gin-based creation topped with prosecco foam. With its inventive menu and stylish ambiance, this new San Diego restaurant is a fine dining standout.
Location: La Jolla
