“One of each” would be my ideal order at Kettner Exchange. It’s one of the most popular restaurants in Little Italy, San Diego. After all my visits, I’ve tried everything on the menu. But selecting which dishes to order is tough. Luckily, most of the menu features tapas-style dishes that are perfect for sharing. This guide covers exactly what to order at Kettner Exchange in Little Italy, based on every visit I’ve made.
Listed in the Michelin Guide, Kettner Exchange (KEX) serves exquisite contemporary American dishes from Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski. It also offers an equally impressive cocktail and wine menu. Chef Brian consistently pushes creative boundaries with bold flavors and ever-changing seasonal dishes.
KEX is an indoor-outdoor, two-level, 10,000-square-foot restaurant. It has an outdoor rooftop with private cabanas and intimate seating, indoor seating with bay views, and downstairs seating.
Two things you will notice when you get the menu are that it includes today’s date. The menu changes with the seasons and available fresh produce. It also has the Michelin logo.
Kettner Exchange in Little Italy is a must-visit. While I can’t guarantee that these dishes will be on the menu, I would highly recommend Kettner Exchange.
Why Kettner Exchange Is Still One of the Best in Little Italy
Best Time to Visit Kettner Exchange
Kettner Exchange is open Monday through Saturday from 5 PM to late, and Sunday from 11 AM to midnight, with Sunday brunch running 11 AM to 3 PM. Expect to pay $31 to $50 per person.
Reservations fill up fast on weekends, so book ahead on OpenTable. If you want the rooftop at its best, go right before sunset on a weeknight. It’s quieter, and you still get the view.
One note: the restaurant enforces a dress code after 9 PM.
What to Order at Kettner Exchange in Little Italy
GRILLED AUSTRALIAN LAMB CHOPS
cucumber, cilantro, yogurt, peanut matcha
This is one of the newest menu items. The lamb was perfectly cooked and seasoned. Highly recommended.
BIGEYE TUNA SASHIMI
crushed avocado, nori chip, radish, chive, thai chili, kaffir soy
A long-time menu item, and ordered by ost people on their first visit.
GRILLED STRIPED BASS
garlic chips, scallion, spicy daikon, ponzu
PIQUILLO PEPPER & PEANUT DIP
grilled focaccia, pomegranate, olive oil
CURRIED SALMON COLLAR
green papaya, vietnamese herbs, thai vinaigrette
MUSHROOM TAN TAN
celery root purée, Atkinson Farm ramen egg, chili, leeks
DUCK MEATBALL
anson mills grits, heirloom tomato, parmesan
Often referred to as the restaurant’s signature dish. Tender, loose-ground meatballs with a rich sauce over creamy grits.
ROASTED TWO FORKS FARM CARROTS
feta, pomegranate, mint, piquillo pepper, peanut
COCONUT RICE
shiitake, cilantro, mint, peanut, nuoc nam
CRISPY WEISER FARMS POTATOES
mint, parsley, aleppo oil, garlic aioli
CAESAR TWINKIES
brioche crouton, mascarpone mousse, romaine lettuce
A playful take on Caesar salad: a crouton stuffed with creamy dressing, crisp on the outside and soft in the center, like its namesake.
HOT OIL SEARED SALMON
soy, sesame, sunchokes, shiitake
KETTNER EXCHANGE SPICY TUNA CRISPY RICE
avocado, radish, crispy rice, eel sauce, spicy mayo
Frequently named alongside the duck meatball as one of the two dishes diners point to as Kettner’s best.
ROASTED CHINESE EGGPLANT
moroccan spice, bulgur, pine nuts, lemon yogurt
A favorite among diners looking for a standout vegetarian option on a menu built around meat and seafood.
GRILLED MARY’S CHICKEN
black urfa chili, pickled red onion, scintilla farms pea tendrils
HOT & SPICY GARLIC NOODLES
shrimp, broccoli, cilantro, scallion (ordered without shrimp)
I love the al dente noodles and the balance of garlic, salt, and gentle heat in the sauce.
WHIPPED BUTTERMILK RICOTTA
balsamic glaze, olive oil, charred bread, lava salt
This is a not-to-be-missed dish with dense, rich ricotta meant to be spread with a knife, not scooped.
KALE SALAD
almonds, apple, golden raisins, parmesan, lemon-olive oil
Easily one of the best kale salads I have had.
Kettner Exchange Menu and Prices
Most shared plates fall in the $13 to $20 range, with larger dishes running higher. Prices shift with the seasonal menu, so treat these as ballpark. For the exact current prices, check the menu on Kettner Exchange’s site before you go. Here’s the Kettner Exchange menu with prices.
The vibe at Kettner Exchange makes it perfect for date night or dinner with friends. It is listed in my post on the top restaurants in Little Italy.
I just published my list of “The Best Restaurants In The Gaslamp Quarter“.
FAQ's
Do I need a reservation at Kettner Exchange?
Reservations aren’t required, but they’re strongly recommended, especially on weekends. Tables fill up fast, and walk-ins may face a wait. Book ahead on OpenTable.
Is there a dress code at Kettner Exchange?
Yes. Smart casual is expected, and the restaurant enforces a dress code after 9 PM.
Is there parking at Kettner Exchange?
Valet parking is available on-site. Street parking also exists nearby, but it’s limited in Little Italy, especially on weekend nights.
Does Kettner Exchange have vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes. The menu includes vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, including dishes like the Roasted Chinese Eggplant and the Hot & Spicy Garlic Noodles, which can be ordered without shrimp.
How many dishes should we order per person?
The menu is tapas-style and built for sharing. Plan on two to three plates per person for a full meal.
