Valentine’s Day is a special occasion for couples to celebrate their love and affection for one another. If you’re looking for a romantic spot to dine in Old Town San Diego, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for Italian, Mexican, sushi, or margaritas, these restaurants have something for everyone. So, make a reservation at one of these top ten places to dine on Valentine’s Day and celebrate “el Amor!”
Trattoria Don Pietro: This Italian restaurant offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a romantic dinner. Don Pietro offers a menu of traditional Italian cuisine with a trendy twist and is known for its wisteria garden patio ambiance and over-the-top cocktails. 2415 San Diego Ave. www.trattoriadonpietro.com
Tahona: This Mexican restaurant offers a unique dining experience with its traditional Oaxacan cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes such as mole, tacos, and ceviche. Table-side mezcal tastings are led by an expert Mezcalier, who will guide you through the different flavors and characteristics of each Mezcal. 2414 San Diego Ave. www.tahonabar.com
Harney Sushi: This sushi restaurant offers a modern and stylish atmosphere, perfect for a romantic dinner. The menu features a variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and cooked dishes. This is the place where experimentation mixes with celebration, where fine dining service and knowledge fuses with beaming personality and style. 3964 Harney St. www.harneysushi.com
Jack & Guilio’s Italian: The signature dish is their famous scampi. This delicious dish has been a staple on the menu since 1961 and is a must-try for all seafood lovers. Made with fresh, succulent shrimp, garlic, white wine, and butter, the scampi is both simple and complex in its flavors, making it the perfect balance of taste and texture. 2391 San Diego Ave. www.jackandgiulios.com
Casa Guadalajara: The menu offers a wide variety of authentic Mexican dishes and signature cocktails, including the house specialty “Macho Grande Combination” platter. On select nights, live mariachi music adds to the festive atmosphere, making it a truly memorable dining experience. 4105 Taylor St. www.casaguadalajara.com
Sushi Tadokoro: Attention to detail is a hallmark, as seen in homemade sauces, prime ingredients, and the fish of the day resting in a wood box. Omakase is the way to go, especially if it includes meaty oysters from British Columbia or succulent scallops from Hokkaido. Reservations required. 2244 San Diego Ave. sushitadokoro.com
Casa de Freds: Quality food with Baja-influenced menu, fresh margaritas and festive atmosphere. The large outdoor patio is dog friendly, so bring in your furry friends and check out the doggy menu! The outdoor bar is a fantastic spot to enjoy the San Diego sun, whether you are here for the weekend or live down the street. 2470 San Diego Ave. fredsoldtown.com
Casa de Reyes: The restaurant offers classic Mexican dishes and daily entertainment including mariachis, plays and folklorico dancing. It features a unique outdoor setting under a Carrizo arbor, fire pit, and outdoor stage, making it a festive dining experience for Valentines Day. 2754 Calhoun St. casadereyesrestaurant.com
Bhojan Griha: Nepalese restaurant offers a unique blend of flavors combining Nepalese, Indian, and Chinese cuisine. The menu features authentic Nepalese dishes, including momos and curries, and is prepared by a fully experienced Nepalese chef. 2367 San Diego Ave. bhojangrihaca.com
Miguel’s Cocina: The menu features classic Mexican recipes with a unique San Diego twist, and includes popular dishes such as Sonoran grilled swordfish tacos, sizzling sirloin fajitas, and spicy chicken mole. Over four decades, Miguel’s Cocina has built a loyal following for its authentic Mexican cuisine. 2444 San Diego Ave. miguels-cocina.com
All of these restaurants are located in the heart of Old Town San Diego, which makes it easy to find parking and public transit options. Old Town San Diego Trolley station is located nearby, and multiple bus routes serve the area. There are also several parking lots and street parking available in the area. So, make a reservation at one of these top five places to dine on Valentine’s Day in Old Town San Diego, and enjoy a romantic and memorable evening with your loved one, with the added bonus of live entertainment and easy parking and public transit options.
