The Meat Of the Matter: Best San Diego Steakhouses
San Diego’s restaurant scene is — hands down — one of the best in the world. And since sometimes, nothing but a big, juicy cut of USDA Prime will do, “America’s Finest City” offers enough steakhouses to satisfy even the most discerning of carnivores. So whether you’re in the mood for a satisfying ribeye, tender filet mignon, or even a titanic tomahawk cut, here’s your guide to finding your personal preference for the best steakhouse in San Diego. And don’t worry — we’d never “steer” you wrong.
Island Prime/C-Level (3.5 miles)
(Photo: @islandprimeclevel)
Island Prime (and its on-site bar C-Level Lounge) takes bayfront dining to an entirely new level. This eatery lets you go beyond the beach — offering exceptional views of the San Diego Bay and downtown skyline. Island Prime is the perfect spot for business luncheons, celebrations or to impress a loved one for a romantic dining experience. Their menu also offers an elevated experience, with steaks just as tasty as the scenery. Don’t miss the Filet Trio (a triptych of tender filets mignon topped with king crab, wild mushrooms & bleu cheese). Alternatively, the New York strip served with the peppercorn-infused au poivre sauce.
880 Harbor Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Born and Raised (4.5 miles)
(Photo: @bornandraisedstk)
Beef is the big star at this magnificent meatery, with a selection of prime, dry-aged cuts making up the majority of the menu. Born and Raised San Diego is famous for their attentive (but never intrusive) tableside service, striking old-school “Gatsby” vibe and décor, views overlooking Little Italy and San Diego Bay, and some of the most incredible, melt-in-your-mouth cuts of meat available anywhere. The cocktail program is also one of the best in the city, with a beverage to tantalize every palate. You can’t go wrong here.
1909 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
Cowboy Star Restaurant & Butcher Shop (7.2 miles)
(Photo: @cowboystarsd)
East Village’s Cowboy Star is one of the most popular steak stops in the city, and for a laundry list of excellent reasons. Among them: exceptional dry-aged steaks, fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, and a welcoming atmosphere that blends classic and contemporary design. The menu achieves the same balance, with a delicious blend of classic cuts, and savory seasonal dishes. When you go, make sure you save room for the famous Banana Pudding dessert.
640 Tenth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
STK San Diego (7.3 miles)
(Photo: @eatstk)
Upscale STK is just as famous for their skyline-view rooftop lounge as they are for their exceptional menu. Been tempted to sample a serving of legendary A5-grade Japanese Wagyu? STK has a selection. Celebrating with a prestige cut like a porterhouse or tomahawk? You’ll find the best in the city here. And since each steak comes with the diner’s choice of a gourmet, house-made sauce, you’ll never have the same steak twice.
600 F St, San Diego, CA 92101
The Fishery (8.4 miles)
(Photo: @sdthefishery)
Located in Pacific Beach, The Fishery is primarily known for their seafood offerings — but sleeping on the beef would be a big “missed steak.” Excellent ribeye, filet mignon, and New York strip are all fantastic choices here, and the full-service bar offers a deep selection of spirits, wines, and local craft beers to accompany every delicious dish. Insider tip: looking for a fun night out? Check out the lively nightlife scene in this area for after-dinner drinks. You’ll find a number of bars, clubs and speakeasies in this youthful beachfront community!
5040 Cass St, San Diego, CA 92109
Rare Society (9.1 miles)
(Photo: @raresocietysteakhouse)
You’d be forgiven for assuming you’ve taken a step back in time when you pass through the doors of this University Heights staple. Given the focus on mid-century décor and exceptional service, you may find yourself wondering why the relaxed pace of yesteryear is the exception rather than the rule lately. Pick your cut from a deep menu featuring Australian Wagyu, bullseye ribeye, and even a 20-oz. / 40-day dry-aged bone-in New York strip, choose a specialty sauce, and allow yourself to be transported.
4130 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92103
The Butcher Shop (12.5 miles)
(Photo: @thebutchershop_sd)
San Diego may have a distinct (and awesome) identity all its own — but when it comes to steakhouses? There are plenty of diners who swear by the Chicago way. The Butcher Shop borrows its methodology and interior design from that timeless vibe, while allowing the menu to also be informed by the savory selections available to Chicago’s most celebrated stockyards. The result is an experience you simply won’t find anywhere else outside the WIndy City.
Humphreys SoCAL Dining & Music (just steps away!)
Guests at Humphreys are never far away from raising the steaks on a delicious dining experience. Our very own on-site eatery is always among favorite stops for hungry locals looking for a classic cut. Whether you opt for our grilled tenderloin (with garlic mash, baby kale and a Cabernet reduction), skirt steak with pomme frites and a bright chimichurri, or even our sage-brined double-cut pork chop, you’ll always head out happy.