San Diego has no shortage of beautiful restaurants and cafes. In fact, I would argue that San Diego is absolutely packed with Instagrammable dining spots, to the point that you could walk into any place for a bite to eat and it more than likely has beautiful wallpaper, aesthetic plating, or at least one neon sign.
I’m generally picky about aesthetics and a bit of a food snob, so I tried to select places that were super Instagrammable and was more lenient on the food quality! But of course, I have a full description of my thoughts on each place below. Let’s dive right in!
By the way: stuffing your face in San Diego is definitely one of the best things to do on your visit here! Check out my list of what to do in San Diego for other activities once your belly is full. 😉
Morning Glory
Chances are, you’ve seen Morning Glory somewhere on social media. This spot is a kitschy breakfast location featuring a wacky interior and unique food and drink choices. They have poofy souffle pancakes, a menu that looks like a death metal band’s program, and a gigantic moving eyeball above the bar (don’t question it). Full disclosure: we weren’t that impressed, but it was worth at least checking out.
Pro tip: This one is a must to come at opening time. We got there before opening hour on a Monday and there was already a line!
Wolfie’s Carousel Bar
Wolfie’s is a must-see if you’re looking for fun dining experiences in San Diego. We’re talking about an eclectic revolving bar with a stripey interior design—how could anyone resist? They also have a beautiful blue and gold theme going on with patterns galore that feel like it mashes Howl’s Moving Castle and the Victorian Era together in one glorious spot. Unfortunately, we didn’t get to visit Wolfie’s personally as it was closed the day we intended to go, but I will forever recommend this one!
Madeleine
Madeleine is a delicious French cafe with an equally beautiful exterior that looks straight out of Paris. They have two locations, but I prefer the one in South Park—just look at how beautiful the red wood paneling is with its lovely script! We especially enjoyed the flaky croissants and I adore their London Fog.
Pro tip: If you want this spot all to yourself, show up as soon as they open. Within half an hour of us arriving, there were plenty of other patrons there!
Holy Matcha
Holy Matcha is a pink-themed matcha cafe with neon signs, flower walls, and all-matcha selections, from the classic drink to dessert pastries. My friend Fish mentioned that the aesthetic here is a bit circa 2017—when all-pink wallpapers and palm leaf print were at their zenith—and I do have to agree. It’s slightly worn-down looking and the matcha is somewhat overpriced, but it still makes for a good photo on camera.
Seneca Trattoria
Yet another spot that we didn’t actually get to hit, Seneca Trattoria (or Restaurante Seneca) is an upscale Italian spot with a beautiful rooftop and striped decor. The dining room is certainly nice, but the Instagram-winning spot is the rooftop with its green-and-white striped booths and matching wavy-edge umbrellas. If you’re looking for good Italian food in San Diego, I’ve also heard that the culinary options are great as well!
That wraps it up for the most Instagrammable restaurants and cafes in San Diego! What do you think? Have you been to any or even all of these spots? I’d love to hear from you if so.
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