Ocean Beach is perfect if you love the beach and good food. During our 5-day trip to San Diego, we spent some time exploring this cool neighborhood. It’s right by the ocean, so you can imagine it has some great spots to grab a bite.
Ocean Beach isn’t just about the beach; it’s also popular for its tasty food choices. Ready to explore the top 13 places to eat in Ocean Beach?
1. The Holding Company
The Holding Company serves up Asian-inspired dishes with stunning ocean views and live music.
Its industrial design, rooftop bar, and comfortable seating make it an excellent spot for brunch, evening drinks, or watching the game. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or families looking for great food and a relaxed vibe.
A downside is that if you have mobility issues, then access to the rooftop might be a bit challenging, however, the second-floor bar can be easily accessed.
The drinks and service are excellent and we love the happy hour from Monday to Friday between 3 pm and 6 pm which has a different deal each day.
We recommend you try:
- Crab cakes eggs benny or surf and turf for brunch
- Orange chicken with rice and side salad
- Eggplant dish and tofu fries
2. Ulivo Restaurant
This quaint Italian restaurant is perfect for couples looking for a romantic evening.
It mixes traditional Italian fare with a modern twist. Its cozy interior and outdoor seating have a welcoming and intimate atmosphere and the ambient lighting on the deck makes it ideal for sunset dining.
The menu includes a wide selection of homemade pasta like creamy spinach ravioli as well as more adventurous dishes like their steak with risotto dish.
Although it’s pricier to eat here compared to other places nearby, the quality of the food and service make it worth spending that bit extra.
Another thing to be mindful of is that there is limited parking out back, so you might need to park a few blocks away and walk back.
We recommend you try:
- Garlic bread
- Cavatelli di Ricotta
- Tiramisu and spumoni desserts
3. La Doña
La Doña is a vibrant Mexican restaurant known for its outstanding mole sauce and colorful atmosphere.
They have a retractable wall leading out to their patio which is perfect for indoor and outdoor dining especially if you’re planning to eat with a large group – it’s also family-friendly.
Service can be a bit slow at times, especially at peak hours, however, we suggest sipping on a mojito or a margarita and enjoying the beach views – the food is worth the wait..
They offer a decent happy hour deal, which includes a decent range of cocktails (including the Margherita)
Their menu also caters well to vegetarians, the options are clearly labeled.
We recommend you try:
- Chicken mole dish
- Mushroom tacos
- Bottomless chips & salsa
4. Hodad’s Ocean Beach
This local favorite in San Diego is renowned for its giant burgers, thick shakes, tasty fries, and onion rings.
The kitschy, surfer-themed decor, complete with license plates and a VW bus, gives a fun and casual atmosphere making it ideal for families and groups.
Portion sizes are generous, and they serve up a good selection of craft beers.
A few downsides are that there’s a real lack of gluten-free options, as well as wait times for service can be long.
We recommend you try:
- Double bacon cheeseburger
- Onion ring basket
- Hand-dipped ice cream and shakes
5. Pizza Port Ocean Beach
This local pizza chain is a solid favorite among families, surfers, and beer enthusiasts. It’s known for its wide selection of craft brews and delicious pizzas.
The restaurant has a relaxed vibe with plenty of outdoor seating making it a popular spot to enjoy a sunny afternoon. Inside, there are arcade games that make it a great choice for large groups and families.
The staff are friendly and accommodating, and they even welcome dogs on the patio. There’s also a large vegetarian selection as well as plenty of gluten-free options.
One downside is that parking can be tricky, and it’s not the cheapest place to get pizza in the area.
We recommend you try:
- BBQ chicken pizza
- Kale salad
- Chronic pale ale beer
6. Breakfast Republic
This trendy restaurant stands out on our list for its inventive breakfast plates, craft beer, and cocktails.
The interior has a modern and quirky style, with its stylish mix of exposed metal paneling and bare wooden beams on the ceiling. They also have an outdoor space, with all-weather covering.
It’s a popular spot for families, couples, and groups, and their unique egg chairs in the waiting area keep kids entertained while you’re waiting.
Service and food quality is great, and the portions are large.
They don’t take reservations here so we suggest arriving early, especially if you’re dining with a large group.
We recommend you try:
- Eggs Benedict
- Pancake sampler
- Omelette
7. The 3rd Corner Wine Shop & Bistro
This chic bistro and wine shop is ideal for special occasions as well as casual dining.
Inside the tables are surrounded by wines displayed on wooden shelving. The atmosphere here has a relaxed feel.
They are known for their impressive wine selection, regional small plates, and weekend brunch menu.
Staff have excellent knowledge about the wines they sell, so this is a particularly great place to eat if you’re looking for new pairings for food. If you’re not sure which wine to try, then opt for their wine flight.
We recommend you try:
- Seafood risotto
- Short ribs
- Wine tasting
8. Mike’s Taco Club
This small, funky, and relaxed restaurant with a welcoming front patio serves incredible Mexican staples and some of the best fish tacos we’ve tried.
It’s a great place for couples and families although there is limited indoor seating which could be challenging if you’re a large group. There is an outdoor area, but it can get busy.
The service is friendly and fast, and the portions are generous.
Prices are a little higher than other Mexican-style restaurants, but the unique menu and the food’s quality justify it.
We recommend you try:
- Mike’s Fisherman Torta
- Cali burrito
- Spicy shrimp and scallop tacos
9. The Joint Sushi & Tapas
This cozy, funky restaurant is a great spot for sushi lovers looking for a relaxed dining experience.
It’s ideal for couples or groups,
Their menu includes a wide selection of fresh sushi, delicious hand rolls, and creative vegetarian options, such as the OB Funguy roll. They also have a good selection of local craft beer as well as a happy hour.
The staff are attentive, and we felt their prices were very reasonable.
One downside is that the restaurant can get crowded during peak hours.
We recommend you try:
- Salmon basil specialty roll
- BOMB-A-LICIOUS roll
- Miso Brussel sprouts
10. Raglan Public House
This modern pub, with a New Zealand-themed menu, specializes in organic burgers and cocktails.
They have indoor seating with cozy booths and outdoor seating with heaters and a relaxed atmosphere making this a great choice for groups of friends, date nights, or family get-togethers.
The menu features a variety of delicious options, from the fresh swordfish sandwich to their famed organic burgers. Their burger-of-the-month club is worth checking out.
Parking can be tricky here, so expect to walk a few blocks.
We recommend you try:
- Swordfish sandwich
- Happy hour sliders
- Cobber Chop’t salad
11. Nico’s Mexican Food
This cute, cash-only restaurant serves up non-pretentious and authentic burritos, tacos, and other Mexican classics.
If you’re looking for authentic Mexican food, you’ll find it here. Although there is some seating here, it’s more of a take-out place.
They serve up a good selection of breakfast burritos, and the chorizo option is a popular choice.
Parking can be difficult around here, so expect to walk a few blocks.
We recommend you try:
- Carne asada burrito
- Beef tacos with guacamole and cheese
- Sausage breakfast burrito
12. Hugo’s Cocina
This laid-back Mexican restaurant has a bright and spacious interior as well as an undercover outdoor area. It’s suitable for couples, families, and groups.
This is one of the best places to eat if you’re looking for plant-based options. They have a diverse menu catering to vegans and vegetarians – there is also plenty of choice for meat-eaters.
Service is friendly, and there is quick food delivery,
One thing to be mindful of is their credit card service charge – if you’re able to pay by cash, ask what discounts are available.
We recommend you try:
- Tofu enchilada with vegan cheese
- Enchiladas trio
- California burrito
13. Johnny Mañanas Ocean Beach
This vibrant and retro-styled restaurant, with its colorful tiles and fun atmosphere, is ideal for anyone looking for a relaxed place to eat.
The outdoor seating adds to its appeal, making it a great spot for couples, friends, and families. This is a fantastic place to enjoy tacos and burritos.
This is one of the best value places to eat in the area, with draft beers being served up for just $2 and the fish taco for only $3.50!
Although the prices are appealing, sometimes dishes can lack flavor so you may want to add extra sauce to give things more of a kick.
We recommend you try:
- Breakfast burrito with bacon
- Crispy fish taco
- Surf and turf taco
Final Thoughts
We hope you’re excited to try these 13 places to eat in Ocean Beach. Each spot we listed has its own special touch—from fresh seafood to international dishes.
Ocean Beach is a great place not just for the beach but also for amazing food. So, when you’re next in San Diego, don’t forget to swing by Ocean Beach and taste some of the best food around.
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