10 New Restaurants That Made Waves in San Diego in 2024

Whether you are a foodie, love to try new restaurants, or just like to keep up with what’s new and hot in the San Diego area, there are some new restaurants you should know about in San Diego that really made waves in 2024. Our city has always been home to some pretty amazing places to dine, and these new restaurants in San Diego are among the best. From fresh sushi at Ichifuji to showstopping ribeyes at 31ThirtyOne, these are some of the best new restaurants San Diego has to offer that are getting rave reviews, along with a few of the specialties they have to offer for lunch, dinner, and beyond. You'll definitely want to add these new restaurants in San Diego to your list of places to visit during your stay at The Dana on Mission Bay!

The Beverly Beach Garden (2.2 Miles to Hotel)

The Beverly Beach Garden has completely reimagined the iconic Pacific Beach spot, El Prez, into a three-story coastal paradise. With a Tulum-inspired design featuring lush greenery, fire pits, and sweeping ocean views, the ambiance sets the stage for a memorable experience. Chef Lizzie Lopez has created a menu full of inventive dishes like Birria Dumplings with Morita chili oil, Swordfish Tiradito with kimchi aioli, and Sugar-Spiced Salmon with mascarpone mashed potatoes.

Hideaway Pacific Beach (2.2 Miles to Hotel)

(Photo: @hideawaypacificbeach)

Hideaway Pacific Beach offers a stylish, bungalow-themed escape just steps from the ocean. With midcentury modern decor and a laid-back beach vibe, the restaurant evokes the spirit of local surf culture. Guests can enjoy crafted American classics like Lobster Mac & Cheese or Pizza from a wood-burning oven, all while sipping on refreshing SoCal cocktails. The vibrant space features multiple curated rooms and patios, perfect for relaxing or socializing.

Postino Little Italy (5.5 Miles to Hotel)

(Photo: @postinowinecafe)

Postino Wine Café has brought its vibrant atmosphere to Little Italy, offering a perfect blend of delicious bites and an impressive wine selection. With a cozy, modern vibe, it's an ideal spot for enjoying shareable plates, including bruschetta, paninis, and hearty salads. The café also offers a range of wines by the glass, perfect for pairing with a light meal. Whether you're relaxing with friends or grabbing a quick bite, Postino provides a welcoming environment for any occasion.

Cellar Hand (6.5 Miles to Hotel)

Known for its original location along California’s Central Coast, the ever-popular restaurant Pali Wine Co. has now opened one of the best new restaurants in San Diego called Cellar Hand. The family-owned winery now offers its first full-service restaurant with a fantastic menu by Chef Logan Kendall. In addition to the amazing wine list they offer, Cellar Hand has a menu that takes advantage of local produce from the farmers' market and fresh seafood from local fishermen. Dinner options include Artichoke Raviolo and Serrano Ham Croquettes, as well as a variety of other interesting and unique dishes. They open at 4 pm each day except for Sunday, when you can join them for a boozy brunch featuring French toast and mimosas at 10 am.

LEILA (7.7 Miles to Hotel)

Step into Leila in North Park and be transported to a dreamy, starry night. Tucked away on 30th Street, this Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant immerses you in a magical atmosphere with twinkling overhead lights, lush trees adorned with Moroccan lanterns, and the calming sound of a waterfall cascading beside the main dining area. Paired with its rich, aromatic dishes and thoughtfully crafted drinks, Leila offers an unforgettable escape right in the heart of San Diego.

31ThirtyOne by Deckman’s (7.8 Miles to Hotel)

Brought to you by Baja Michelin Star recipient restaurant owner Drew Deckman, 31ThirtyOne brings yet another unique fine dining experience to you at this new San Diego location. Chef Deckman offers a four-course set menu that combines his zero-waste practices and sustainable sourcing for cuisine that includes incredible ribeye steaks as well as scrumptious whole fish dishes. The new restaurant in San Diego also features unique setting options and interesting ambiances for dinner including the chef’s counter tasting menu and the rooftop bar for oysters and other delights.

Ichifuji (7.9 Miles to Hotel)

(Photo: @itskevinsunday)

If an intimate dining experience is your thing, Ichifuji will quickly put you in the mood for authentic and traditional Japanese cuisine in their sleek new SoCal location. One of the popular new restaurants in San Diego everyone is talking about, Ichifuji San Diego is the culinary culmination of the owners of Michelin-starred Soichi Sushi as well as San Diego’s popular Taka Sushi. Featuring just two seatings per night with only 10 seats, Ichifuji offers an eight-course omakase menu and you can bet that reservations are in high demand!

Bica (8.4 Miles to Hotel)

(Photo: @bica_sd)
Bica is definitely the place to go for breakfast and lunch (or an early dinner) in San Diego. Continuously praised as one of the most popular new restaurants in San Diego, Bica has two talented local chefs operating this casual daytime café. You have to get there early because they close at 4 pm, but the ever-changing seasonal menu is to die for. Choose from unique specialties like locally baked sourdough bread topped with ricotta and fruit preserves, delicious sandwiches with house-made porchetta, or scrambled eggs with salmon roe. Grab a spot on the popular Adams Avenue patio for a great meal with a fun vibe at one of the best new restaurants San Diego has to offer.

Trattoria da Sofia (9.4 Miles to Hotel)

(Photo: @trattoria.da.sofia)

Trattoria da Sofia on Adams Avenue brings the heart of Sicily to the neighborhood of Kensington with its charming atmosphere and daily-made fresh pasta. The cozy interior makes you feel like you're dining in an Italian villa, complete with an exceptional wine list and delectable dishes like local seafood and shareable plates. The tableside tiramisu is a showstopper, and the restaurant's warm, inviting vibe makes it perfect for a dinner party atmosphere.

Le Coq (10.4 Miles to Hotel)

(Photo: @lecoq.sd)
This modern French steakhouse is getting rave reviews, and it’s not surprising because animae chef Tara Monsod, a James Beard Award finalist, is in charge of the kitchen at this 7,500-square-foot restaurant in La Jolla. Enjoy your favorite French cuisine along with a variety of modern dishes that incorporate Parisian gastronomy with delicious Asian flavors for an unexpected culinary delight! From the Caviar Butter to the Australian Wagyu New York, enjoy fine dining at Le Coq if you’re looking to try one of the best new restaurants in San Diego near The Dana on Mission Bay.

Are You Ready to Try Some of the Amazing New Restaurants in San Diego?

Plan a foodie weekend in San Diego you won’t soon forget in 2025 here at The Dana on Mission Bay. Conveniently located near all the best restaurants in San Diego, The Dana offers Water’s Edge suites and junior suites that are perfect for families, extended stays, and romantic escapes with beautiful views of Mission Bay and Sunset Park. We also have Marina Cove rooms and suites situated near the marina with lush, tropical landscaping. Our king or two queen bed rooms are perfect for those looking for a great value and seclusion, making them a great choice for family vacations, solo trips, and romantic getaways.

Book your accommodations here at The Dana today with one of our amazing hotel package deals, and get ready for a fabulous foodie adventure experiencing all the delicious and unique restaurants in San Diego, including our very own Firefly Eatery & Bar!