Six San Diego County restaurants have made it onto Yelp’s list of the Top 100 Places to Eat in the U.S. for 2019. This list is unique because it highlights many lesser-known smaller or family-owned restaurants. In fact, all six of the San Diego winners are new in the past year! Here is a great chance to go try a new neighborhood diner, mom and pop, or hole in the wall that have earned themselves top rankings on Yelp for their delicious food, friendly service, and affordable price.
The San Diego winners are: #17 Crafted Greens (El Cajon), #29 Chuy’s Taco Shop (Rolando), #69 Tahini (Kearny Mesa), #72Bud & Rob’s New Orleans Bistro (East Village), #75 Pho Guys (Vista), and #94 Empanada Kitchen (Downtown San Diego).
Of the six on the list, I’ve only personally visited two (so far!) but look forward to visiting the other four in the coming year!
Tahini
This bright and modern Middle Eastern spot is great for a quick lunch. You design your own bowl, pitas, and salads with some absolutely delicious shawarma. 9119 Clairemont Mesa Drive, Suite G, Kearny Mesa. tahinistreetfood.com
Empanada Kitchen
Hands down the best empanadas in San Diego! Empanada Kitchen excels in handmade Argentine empanadas with both traditional flavors and inventive offerings. Plenty of vegetarian options, like mushroom and goat cheese, in addition to their signature beef empanada. Don’t miss the house chimichurri sauce either! 819 C St., Downtown San Diego. empanada-kitchen.com
