Best Restaurants & Dining in Oceanside CA
A Local Guide
Oceanside offers a classic Southern California beach-town vibe with year-round sunshine, scenic coastline and easy access to major theme parks and unique charter experiences. Whether you’re planning a family trip, romantic getaway or fishing adventure, you’ll find memorable things to do near your vacation rental.
Just a short walk from North Coast Village, Dominic’s at the Harbor is one of the top Italian restaurants in Oceanside Harbor. Known for its authentic pizza, mouthwatering garlic knots, and relaxed waterfront atmosphere, it’s a favorite dining spot for locals and visitors alike.
Located at 333 North Pacific Street, right at the foot of the Oceanside Pier inside the Wyndham Resort, this is one of Oceanside’s best new dining experiences. Guests can enjoy fresh, coastal-inspired cuisine with ocean views. The restaurant is open seasonally for lunch and nightly for dinner, offering an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere steps from the beach.
This local favorite is known for its crispy, golden fish and chips – exactly what you’d expect from a spot by the sea. Conveniently located in the Oceanside Harbor, it’s the perfect place to enjoy fresh seafood with a harbor view after a day at the beach.
Local Favorite for Breakfast & Lunch in Oceanside
Located at 202 N. Coast Highway, this cozy Oceanside café is known for its fresh, made-to-order breakfasts and lunches. Though it’s a small spot, the food is worth the wait—weekend lines often stretch out the door thanks to its loyal local following and generous portions.
Farm-to-Table Dining in Oceanside
Located at 626 S. Tremont Street, this casual farm-to-table restaurant offers a cozy bistro-style atmosphere perfect for a relaxed evening out. Open for dinner only, it’s known for its seasonal comfort food, creative dishes, and decadent desserts, making it one of the best dinner spots in Oceanside for locally sourced cuisine.
Upscale Coastal Dining Near Oceanside
For a special occasion dinner, it’s worth the short drive down the coast to Pacific Coast Grill in Cardiff. Known for its perfectly grilled Cowboy Steak and fresh, flavorful seafood dishes, this oceanfront restaurant combines fine dining with unbeatable coastal views. It’s one of the best seaside restaurants near Oceanside for an unforgettable meal.
Seasonal California Cuisine Near Oceanside
For an exceptional dining experience, head south to Seasons 52 in La Jolla, where seasonal California cuisine takes center stage. Guests rave about the lobster flatbread pizza and the Chilean sea bass, both prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. It’s one of the top fine dining restaurants near Oceanside for fresh, flavorful dishes and a polished coastal atmosphere.
Oceanview Dining in La Jolla
Located at 1250 Prospect Street in La Jolla, this multi-level oceanview restaurant is a local favorite for both its stunning views of La Jolla Cove and its exceptional cuisine. The rooftop patio is ideal for families, offering a relaxed atmosphere with breathtaking coastal scenery. The second level features a lively bar, while the lower level provides fine dining with panoramic ocean views. Be sure to ask about the chicken, black bean, and broccoli soup—a hidden gem that’s not always on the menu.
Elegant Oceanfront Dining in La Jolla
Located at 2000 Spindrift Drive in La Jolla, this fine dining restaurant offers a truly elegant oceanfront experience. Guests enjoy tableside preparations, gourmet coastal cuisine, and breathtaking beach views, making it one of the best oceanfront restaurants in La Jolla for a romantic dinner or special celebration.
Disclosure: MakeMyVacation.com has provided this list of services/attractions for your convenience and, as such, does NOT own nor claim to know the businesses listed beyond the existence of their store front and/or website. Any suggested dining and/or shopping recommendations are based on the MakeMyVacation.com team members’ experience only and must not be construed to be an official approval of any sort. Guests are advised to check the business and its services before using the same. By way of this notification, MakeMyVacation.com guests acknowledge that using the services of the businesses listed above is solely at their own risk and discretion.