Outdoor Dining in San Diego

Updated: July 27, 2008

Sip and be served al fresco at one of the city's many outside eateries. For us, it's Summer all year long.

San Diego's Top Outdoor Dining Spots

  1. 1 5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended Prado-Balboa Park
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    1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    Spanish lovely in Balboa Park impresses with good food and better ambiance on a romantic, tiered patio.

  2. 2 4 Star Rating: Recommended The 3rd Corner
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    2265 Bacon St, San Diego, CA 92107 (map)

    Ocean Beach wine shop also houses a comfortable, casual-chic restaurant and wine bar backed by bigtime San Diego foodies. We love the intimate patio out front with twinkle lights and vine-covered walls.

  3. 3 5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended Kono's Cafe
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    704 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109 (map)

    Breakfast spot at the Crystal Pier entrance with killer breakfast burritos, party potatoes and a patio overlooking the surfers below.

  4. 4 3 Star Rating: Average La Pinata Mexican Restaurant
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    2836 Juan St, San Diego, CA 92110 (map)

    Old Town Mexican favorite stands the test of time with traditional menu, mariacchis and casual, colorful patio.

  5. 5 3 Star Rating: Average Frida Restaurant
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    2015 Birch Road, Chula Vista, CA 91915 (map)

    As if the South Bay hot spot's breezy terrace weren't peaceful enough, the main dining room has an indoor-outdoor feel as well, with high ceilings, wide open doorways and a soothing waterfall.

  6. 6 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Old Venice Italian Rstrnt Cffe
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    2910 Canon St, San Diego, CA 92106 (map)

    Hidden Point Loma patio glows with charm, strung lights, and a classic Italian menu with Sinatra serenading in the background.

  7. 7 1 Star Rating: Poor The Cottage
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    7202 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037 (map)

    Cozy patio restaurant, known for California-style breakfasts, also serves lunch in the heart of La Jolla's village.

  8. 8 3.5 Star Rating: Average Cafe Zucchero
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    1731 India St, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    Indoor/outdoor dining in Little Italy featuring pasta, sandwiches, wood-fired pizzas and freshly made gelato and sorbets.

  9. 9 4 Star Rating: Recommended Trattoria Acqua
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    1298 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037 (map)

    Hilltop restaurant with cove and ocean views boasts one of La Jolla's finest Italian menus.