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San Diego Food recommendations from a local who is passionate about food quality over Instagram worthy pictures

Purple Star emoji 18 items
I lived here in San Diego for over 10 years now and these are places I return to over and over again and bring my friends and family
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Tacos

 
sade Renee profile picture
This is the first birria taco I had in the city and it’s still my number one spot!
664 TJ BIRRIERIA - Updated November 2025 - 274 Photos & 220 Reviews
 
sade Renee profile picture
Another amazing place to get Birria tacos
Mike's Red Tacos
 
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The best fish tacos in my opinion. I love the battered fish OG and the grilled shrimp tacos. You must also get the ceviche.
Oscars Mexican Seafood

Fancy smancy restaurants worth the money

 
sade Renee profile picture
Get the pasta!! I dream about this pasta. The burger only served at the bar is also amazing.
Fort Oak
 
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Everything is so good hear. Get the chefs tasting menu that way you can try a little of everything.
Callie
 
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They change their menus with the seasons. Bring a few friends that way you can try a little of everything.
Herb & Wood

Burgers

 
sade Renee profile picture
The absolute best burger I have ever had in my life. Don’t be intimidated by the line. It moves quickly.
Tanner's Prime Burgers
 
sade Renee profile picture
A pricey burger but I promise it’s worth every penny! Don’t forget to get the duck fat fries. They use the best quality meat.
The Wise Ox Butcher & Deli

Asian

 
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Thai food! Everything is amazing
So Saap
 
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Something about them serving their food on paper plates just make it taste so much better.
Bahn Thai
 
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After visiting Japan this is the ONLY ramen place I will eat at.
Ramen Nagi
 
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Not a hidden gem but obviously it’s popular for a reason
Din Tai Fung
 
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Been here for years and years. When it’s a cold rainy day the line is so long but worth it.
Pho Cow Cali

Sushi

 
sade Renee profile picture
My favorite sushi place. I come here once or twice a month. Both locations are amazing. Get the salmon oshi
chef JUN
 
sade Renee profile picture
Super popular on socials but worth every penny the fish quality is out of this world. I come here for special occasions since it’s on the pricier side
Azuki Sushi Lounge
 
sade Renee profile picture
When I want quick grab and go sushi I come here! Here once a week. Super affordable and the fish is restaurant quality
Tokyo Central & Main San Diego

Bbq

 
sade Renee profile picture
Southern style bbq with the best sides!! The place looks like a home. I love sitting in the backyard to enjoy my meal
Bowlegged B.B.Q
 
sade Renee profile picture
They have two locations but this is the best bbq meat you are going to find in San Diego
Grand Ole BBQ