You can never go wrong with a classic restaurant. Dive into some local history and please your taste buds along the way at one of San Diego’s Oldest Restaurants. These restaurants have been in continual operation, most in the same location, and many by the same owners!
Here is List of Top 20 Oldest Restaurants in San Diego
Let’s check each of the old restaurants in San Diego in more detail.
(1933) Las Cuatro Milpas:
Homemade tortillas are calling your name at the oldest Mexican restaurant in San Diego. Known for its authentic dishes like mouthwatering tamales and tacos, this beloved spot charms visitors with its cozy picnic-table décor.
Location: 1857 Logan Ave, San Diego, CA 92113
Phone: (619) 234-4460
(1933) The Waterfront Bar & Grill:
Burgers, burritos, and breakfast are hits at this Little Italy establishment that has been dubbed San Diego’s Oldest Tavern.
Location: 2044 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 232-9656
(1934) Tobey’s 19th Hole Café:
Enjoy good comfort food and great views at the oldest restaurant in San Diego. You can savor your meal while looking out at a gorgeous green course and the San Diego skyline.
Location: 2600 Golf Course Dr, San Diego, CA 92102
Phone: (619) 234-5921
(1937) Turkey Inn:
Located in Ramona, stop in for darts, pool, and tunes on the jukebox at this local pub that is welcoming to neighbors and visitors alike.
Location: 716 Main St, Ramona, CA 92065
Phone: (760) 789-0471
www.yelp.com/biz/turkey-inn-ramona
(1938) San Diego Chicken Pie Shop:
Break into a delicious, fresh-baked chicken or turkey pot pie smothered in gravy at one of the oldest restaurants in San Diego. Don’t forget to grab a dessert pie before you leave!
Location: 2633 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92104
Phone: (619) 295-0156
(1940) Café La Maze Steakhouse:
Soak in the nostalgia of the big red booths and vintage ambiance while you delve into a mouth-watering, juicy steak just the way you like it in the oldest steakhouse in San Diego.
Location: 1441 Highland Ave, National City, CA 91950
Phone: (619) 474-3222
www.yelp.com/biz/cafe-la-maze-national-city
(1940) El Indio:
Since 1940, it has been dedicated to serving the finest Mexican food north of the border. Serving up Great Sonoran style Mexican Food, El Indio is a favorite among many due to their generous portions, quality ingredients, and flavorful food.
Location: 3695 India St, San Diego, CA 92103
Phone: (619) 299-0333
(1941) Clayton’s Coffee Shop:
Jump back in time at this 40’s classic American diner in Coronado where you can get a great cup of coffee, hand-scooped ice cream, and homemade meals that will have you coming back.
Location: 979 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118
Phone: (619) 435-5425
(1941) The Marine Room:
This restaurant in La Jolla takes ocean view to the next level. Dine on exceptional dishes featuring locally sourced seafood as the waves crash against the windows during high tide.
Location: 1950 Spindrift Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037
Phone: (858) 459-7222
(1944) Hob Nob Hill:
Here you will find scratch-made comfort food like their chicken n’ dumplings. But do not sleep on their breakfast either, which has been renowned as one of the best in San Diego.
Location: 2271 First Ave., San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 239-8176
(1946) Pernicano’s Family Ristorante:
When the recipes are handed down by generations, you know the food is going to be good. Located in El Cajon dine on classic Italian favorites like white pizza, garlic cheese bread, and chicken parmigiana with a hand-crafted touch.
Location: El Cajon
1588 E Main Street El Cajon, CA 92021
Phone: (619) 444-4546
(1946) Rainbow Oaks Cafe:
Dig into traditional American cuisine in a lodge-like ambiance that will having you feeling cozy and content.
Location: 4815 5th St, Fallbrook, CA 92028
Phone: (760) 723-2279
(1946) Tony’s Jacal:
This authentic Mexican restaurant was started right out the home of original owner’s parents. Since then, the space has been expanded but the legacy has continued.
Location: 621 Valley Ave, Solana Beach, CA 92075
Phone: (858) 755-2274
(1947) Aero Club:
Decked out in pinball machines and signature lights, this watering hole is well-known amongst locals and now they have Space Kat BBQ on-site served out of huge smokers to keep you well fed.
Location: 3365 India St, San Diego, CA 92103
Phone: (619) 297-7211
(1947) The Barbecue Pit:
With locations in National City and Fletcher Hills its traditions are rooted in Texas barbeque expertise, you will be drooling over their slow-cooked, choice-cut meats that can be paired with all your favorite sides.
Location: 2388 Fletcher Parkway, El Cajon, CA 92020
Phone: (619) 462-5434
www.thebarbecuepitrestaurant.com
(1948) Red Tracton’s Steakhouse:
Expect to eat very well when you come here as guests rave about generous portions and tender, deliciously seasoned steaks.
Location: 550 Via De La Valle, Solana Beach, CA 92075
Phone: (858) 724-4400
(1949) Rudford’s Restaurant:
This diner serves up breakfast, lunch, and dinner 24/7 in the heart of North Park. You can get a burger, perfectly cooked pancakes, or even a shake with mix-ins to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Location: 2900 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92104
Phone: (619) 282-8423
(1950) Filippi’s Pizza Grotto:
The Little Italy market and restaurant is their oldest location where you can stop in and enjoy extra cheesy pizza, pasta topped with rich sauces, and fresh cannoli.
Location: 1747 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: 619 232-5094
www.realcheesepizza.com/little-italy
(1950) Turf Supper Club:
At San Diego’s original grill-your-own supper club and bar, you can cook up your own steak to perfection on their hot, self-service grill.
Location: 1116 25th St, San Diego, CA 92102
Phone: (619) 234-6363
(1959) Harbor House:
This family run restaurant in Oceanside is known for their welcoming atmosphere and breakfast including their lobster benedict, hearty scrambles, and gluten free pancakes. Owner Anthony Spano has also been an avid supporter of the people in his community.
Location: 714 N Coast Hwy Oceanside, CA 92054
Phone: (760)-722-2254
Conclusion:
San Diego’s oldest restaurants bring history to your plate. From delicious tacos to juicy steaks, these spots serve up tasty meals and a touch of the past. Whether you’re enjoying Mexican food or American classics, every bite tells a story.
