Valentine’s Day restaurants San Diego are some of the most popular spots of the year, as couples look for the perfect place to enjoy a special meal together. And the good news is that San Diego’s dining scene has something for everyone. You’ll find everything from waterfront fine dining to cozy neighborhood favorites.
Choosing the right restaurant can feel overwhelming with so many options. That’s why this guide to Valentine’s Day restaurants San Diego makes it easy. I’ve rounded up some of the best restaurants across the city so you can find the ideal setting for your evening.
This list of Valentine’s Day restaurants San Diego is arranged alphabetically.
I’ll be updating this list as more restaurants make announcements. Enter your email to stay informed.
Ace Porter at Omni San Diego Hotel
Location
Downtown San Diego, inside the Omni San Diego Hotel at the Ballpark.
Why it’s special
This is an easy pick if you want dinner and a full Valentine’s vibe. The hotel is leaning all the way into the romance theme.
Valentine’s Day Menu/Specials
On Valentine’s Day only, Ace Porter will serve a chef-curated three-course prix-fixe menu for $45 per person. Highlights include lamb carpaccio with chili oil and lime, short rib chile colorado with guajillo sauce, and wild mushroom truffle risotto. Dinner ends with a specialty dessert made for the occasion. They also have romantic lobby moments like bubble bar and boba packages, pink coffee cups at Fres.co, floral photo setups, and a romance-focused stay package.
Cuisine Style
Modern American
Good to know
This is a one-night-only menu, so reservations are a smart move if you want a table on Valentine’s Day.
Adelaide
Location
Del Mar, inside L’Auberge Del Mar, with sweeping ocean views and a serene coastal setting.
Why it’s romantic
An intimate ocean-view dining room makes it ideal for a romantic evening.
Valentine’s Day Restaurants San Diego Menu/Specials
Adelaide offers two special dinners during Valentine’s week:
February 12 – A Symphony in the Glass: An Evening with Michael Browne (Wine Dinner): 6:00 p.m., $150++ per person. Guests enjoy an immersive wine and music experience led by legendary winemaker Michael Browne. Live guitar accompanies a guided tasting where different musical tones enhance the perception of aromas. Following the tasting, guests transition to a curated multi-course dinner paired with select wines, with insights and stories from Michael Browne.
February 14 – Valentine’s Day Dinner:
5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., $125 per person. A romantic three-course prix fixe dinner with seasonal, decadent dishes, paired with fine wines. 2nd course includes choices like 8oz. Creekstone Farms filet mignon, Ora King Salmon, or Winter Truffle Risotto). Live music from Roman Palacios performing Sinatra, Bocelli, and other classics .
Cuisine Style
Upscale Californian cuisine with seasonal, locally inspired dishes.
Price Range
$125–$150++ per person, depending on the dinner.
Good to know
Reservations are highly recommended for both dinners.
A.R. Valentien at The Lodge at Torrey Pines
Location
La Jolla, inside The Lodge at Torrey Pines, overlooking the golf course near the coast.
Why it’s romantic
Quiet, elegant, and relaxed. The room feels intimate, and sunset views add to the mood.
Valentine’s Day restaurants San Diego Menu/Specials
A special prix fixe Valentine’s Day dinner with multiple courses and optional wine pairings.
Cuisine Style
California fine dining with seasonal and local ingredients.
Price Range
5:30-9:30 p.m.
$135 Per Person
+$95 with Wine Pairings
Good to know
Reservations are a must. Dress nicely but comfortably. Great option if you want a full evening out in a beautiful setting.
Animae
Location
Downtown San Diego in the Marina District near the waterfront.
Why it’s romantic
Sleek art‑deco space and bold flavors make the setting feel special and intimate.
Valentine’s Day Restaurants San Diego Menu/Specials
Multi‑course Valentine’s Day dinner with starters like citrus salad or tuna crudo, mains such as filet or seabass, and desserts like layered strawberry mousse or pomelo tart. Optional wine pairings are available.
Cuisine Style
Asian fusion with steakhouse influences and seafood options.
Price Range
About $155 per person with optional wine pairing for an extra cost.
Good to know
Dinner is served from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 14.
Reservations are strongly recommended for Valentine’s Day.
ARTIFACT at Mingei
Location
Inside Mingei International Museum in Balboa Park.
Why it’s romantic
You can spend time in the museum, then settle in for a relaxed evening meal.
Valentine’s Day Restaurants San Diego Menu/Specials
ARTIFACT will offer a Valentine’s prix-fixe dinner as part of its ARTIFACT at Night program. The dinner is $80 per person and includes three courses plus a welcome bite. Main course includes dishes like Local fish + fava santorini + snow pea + sweet pepper + pine nut + salted meyer lemon + dill + chive, or Mala spiced duck breast + plum sauce + glazed celery root + gai lan + cilantro.
Cuisine Style
Seasonal Californian cooking with global influences.
Price Range
$80 per person, with optional beverage pairings.
Good to know
Lunch service will still be available on Friday and Saturday. The Valentine’s dinner is ideal for couples who want culture, food, and a slower-paced evening in one place.
Cori Pastificio Trattoria
Location
North Park
Why it’s special
Choose Cori for Valentine’s Day for a great Italian dinner.
Valentine’s Day Restaurants San Diego Menu/Specials
Chef Accursio will offer two tasting menus for Valentine’s Day. Guests can choose a four-course menu for $95 per person or a six-course tasting menu for $125 per person. The menus highlight Cori’s pasta-focused cooking and seasonal ingredients. Meal includes handmade ravioli filled with porcini mushrooms and prawn, roasted local spiny lobster, and a bright Meyer lemon mousse to finish.
Cuisine Style
Italian trattoria cooking.
Price Range
$95 to $125 per person, depending on the tasting menu selected.
Good to know
This is a great choice for couples who want a relaxed, neighborhood feel.
CUCINA urbana
Location
Bankers Hill.
Why it’s special
CUCINA urbana will be offering two options for Valentine’s Day.
Valentine’s Day Restaurants San Diego Menu/Specials
Valentine’s Day is prix-fixe only. Guests can choose between a four-course menu for $95 per person or a five-course tasting menu for $130 per person. Highlights include beef carpaccio, celeriac agnolotti en broo, wagyu coulotte, and strawberry tiramisu. The tasting menu adds dishes like salmon tartare and Hokkaido scallop for a longer, more indulgent meal.
Cuisine Style
Italian-inspired with a modern touch.
Price Range
$95 to $130 per person.
Good to know
Reservations are a must.
DOCKSIDE 1953
Location
Mission Bay with panoramic water views from the Bahia Resort Hotel waterfront.
Why it’s romantic
Open patio and bay views set a relaxed and scenic vibe for couples. Complimentary champagne toast adds a special touch.
Valentine’s Day restaurants San Diego Menu/Specials
Three‑course prix fixe dinner with a complimentary champagne toast. Menu includes starters like scallop ceviche, celery root soup, salad, and a pan‑roasted halibut main.
Cuisine Style
Fresh California fare with seafood and chef‑driven dishes focused on seasonal ingredients.
Price Range
5:30 to 10 p.m.
$105 ++ per person for the Valentine’s Day menu.
Good to know
Reservations are highly encouraged. Expect live entertainment and a laid‑back, outdoor vibe.
Dora Ristorante
Location
Theatre District in La Jolla
Why it’s romantic
The perfect spot for a romantic date and an unforgettable Italian dinner
Valentine’s Day restaurants San Diego Menu/Specials
Chef Accursio will offer a four-course, prix-fixe menu. Dishes include local tuna tartare with fennel and lemon zest, handmade tagliolini with champagne and red prawns, and a rose panna cotta with red berries.
Cuisine Style
Italian regional cooking
Price Range
$98/person
Good to know
Reservations are highly encouraged.
Ember & Rye
Location
Carlsbad. Ember & Rye overlooks the Batiquitos Lagoon with peaceful water views.
Why it’s romantic
Lagoon views at sunset set the tone. The biggest bonus is complimentary on-site babysitting, so parents can relax and enjoy the night.
Valentine’s Day Restaurants San Diego Menu/Specials
Early Valentine’s Day prix fixe dinner with shared snacks, plus a choice of appetizer, entree, and dessert. Menu highlights include jumbo shrimp cocktail, Australian wagyu with grilled tiger shrimp, cedar plank Ora King salmon, scallops with saffron risotto, and desserts like raspberry passionfruit cake or a chocolate s’more. Complimentary babysitting is included with the menu.
Cuisine Style
Upscale California cuisine with steak, seafood, and seasonal ingredients.
Price Range
$120/person. Upscale experience.
Good to know
This is an early Valentine’s dinner on Thursday, February 12 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Reservations are important, especially if you plan to use the babysitting service.
Freddy’s Chophouse
Location
Downtown San Diego in the Gaslamp Quarter.
Why it’s romantic
Classic steakhouse energy with a playful Valentine’s twist. The restaurant is decorated with pink and red lights.
Valentine’s Day Restaurants San Diego Menu/Specials
Valentine’s Dinner for Two is priced at $150. The special includes a 34-oz tomahawk steak served with an 8-oz steamed lobster tail, your choice of two entree sides, and two glasses of bubbly or rosé. Freddy’s will also feature themed Valentine’s cocktails like Kiss From a Rose, Drunk N’ Love, Cupid’s Cocktail, and a shareable “Key to My Heart” cocktail experience designed for couples and Galentine’s celebrations.
Cuisine Style
Classic American steakhouse with premium cuts, seafood, and craft cocktails.
Price Range
$150 per couple for the Valentine’s dinner special. Cocktails are priced individually.
Good to know
This offer is available for the month of February, not just Valentine’s Day.
glass box
Location
Del Mar, in the Sky Deck
Why it’s special
Glass Box takes the pressure off Valentine’s Day by stretching the celebration over more than two weeks.
Valentine’s Day Restaurants San Diego Menu/Specials
From February 6 through February 22, Glass Box offers a six-course date night menu. The meal starts with Oyster and Caviar Toast on warm milk bread with smoked oyster cream, Kaluga caviar, and chives. Next is Bluefin Toro and Strawberry Crudo with a soy-balsamic reduction. A slow-cooked Japanese Onion and Wagyu bone broth follows. The sashimi and nigiri flight includes otoro, kanpachi, Hokkaido scallop, snapper, hamachi, and salmon belly. The main course is a charcoal-grilled ribeye with black garlic butter, crispy potatoes, and shishito peppers. Dessert is Strawberry Yuzu Cloud with yuzu chiffon, strawberry compote, vanilla crème légère, and rose crystal.
Cuisine Style
Modern sushi and Japanese-inspired dishes with a creative edge.
Price Range
$85 per person for the six-course menu.
Good to know
This is a great option if you want a full tasting-style experience and want flexibility with dates.
Havana 1920
Location
Downtown San Diego in the Gaslamp Quarter, located on Fifth Avenue.
Why it’s romantic
Intimate and lively with music, energy, and a warm Cuban atmosphere that feels fun and social.
Valentine’s Day Restaurants San Diego Menu/Specials
Hosting a Galentine’s Day Havana Nights event on Thursday, Feb. 12 from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Guests who RSVP can enjoy complimentary Cuban small bites, spirit tastings, and live entertainment. The restaurant will also be open for regular dinner service featuring authentic Cuban dishes.
Cuisine Style
Traditional Cuban cuisine with classic dishes and bold flavors.
Price Range
Free to attend the Galentine’s event with RSVP. Dinner pricing varies based on menu selections.
Good to know
RSVP is required for the free event. This is a great option if you want a lively night out rather than a quiet sit-down Valentine’s dinner.
Hudson & Nash
Location
Inside the Hilton San Diego Bayfront, near Petco Park.
Why it’s romantic
Bay views, soft lighting, and the option to move between dinner and cocktails.
Valentine’s Day Restaurants San Diego Menu/Specials
On February 13 and 14, Hudson & Nash is offering Valentine’s a la carte specials. Starters include a Rose-Poached Pear with Burrata and a Seared Scallop with Champagne beurre blanc. Entrées range from a Surf and Turf petite duo with filet, lobster, and truffle mash to a vegetarian Wild Mushroom and Asparagus Pappardelle. Dessert features a Raspberry White Chocolate Mousse with ganache and dark chocolate brownie layers.
Cuisine Style
Modern American with a coastal influence and seasonal ingredients.
Price Range
Depending on course selections.
Good to know
This is a solid choice if you want flexibility instead of a fixed prix fixe menu, plus the bonus of a waterfront hotel setting and easy access to pre or post-dinner drinks.
KETTNER EXCHANGE
Location
Little Italy
Why it’s romantic
Kettner Exchange is lively, stylish, and fun without feeling over the top. It’s a great choice if you want a Valentine’s dinner that feels like a night out, not just a quiet meal.
Valentine’s Day Restaurants San Diego Menu/Specials
Kettner Exchange will offer a special tasting menu curated by award-winning chef Brian Redzikowski. The menu features playful, elevated dishes like the Caesar “Twinkie,” Truffle Ham & Cheese Sandwich, Maine Diver Scallops, and Roasted Duck. Dessert is the “Reeses,” a red velvet cake crumble finished with candied peanuts.
Cuisine Style
Modern American with bold flavors and creative twists.
Price Range
$139.13 per person
Optional wine-pairings $50
Good to know
Book early if you want a prime-time reservation.
Mastro’s Ocean Club
Location
Downtown San Diego by the waterfront, offering harbor views and an upscale setting.
Why it’s romantic
Elegant, polished, and classic. The waterfront location, candlelit dining room, and live piano music create a timeless Valentine’s Day atmosphere.
Valentine’s Day Restaurants San Diego Menu/Specials
Mastro’s will serve its full dinner menu on Valentine’s Day, featuring prime steaks like bone-in ribeye and filet, plus luxury seafood options including lobster and chilled shellfish towers. A special Chocolate Cheesecake is available throughout February, made with premium cocoa, espresso, dark chocolate ganache, and an Oreo cookie crust.
Cuisine Style
High-end steakhouse cuisine with premium steaks, seafood, and indulgent sides.
Price Range
Pricing varies by menu selections and shared dishes.
Good to know
Valentine’s Day reservations fill quickly.
MISTER A's
Location
Downtown San Diego in the Gaslamp Quarter, ideal for walking before or after dinner.
Why it’s romantic
Intimate and elegant dining room with a cozy vibe that works well for a special night out.
Valentine’s Day Restaurants San Diego Menu/Specials
Special Valentine’s Day prix fixe menu with seasonal dishes crafted for the occasion.
Cuisine Style
Modern American with creative and refined flavors.
Price Range
Upscale prix fixe pricing (exact price typically listed on the restaurant’s Valentine’s menu).
Good to know
Reservations are highly recommended for Valentine’s Day. Perfect if you want a refined downtown dinner.
MONELLO/BENCOTTO
Location
Little Italy, both located on West Fir Street in the heart of the neighborhood.
Why it’s romantic
Classic Italian vibes, candlelit tables, and cozy dining rooms make both spots feel perfect for a romantic night out.
Valentine’s Day Restaurants San Diego Menu/Specials
On Saturday, Feb. 14, both restaurants will offer Valentine’s Day chef specials. Monello will feature risotto with red pepper cream and prawns. Bencotto will offer heart-shaped red beet ravioli with ricotta and taleggio in a white truffle cream sauce. Both will serve a red velvet tiramisu for dessert.
Cuisine Style
Authentic Italian cuisine with handmade pastas and traditional flavors.
Price Range
Valentine’s Day specials range from the mid-$30s, with dessert priced separately.
Good to know
These specials are only available on Valentine’s Day. Reservations are strongly encouraged, especially for dinner hours.
NÓMADA
Location
Carlsbad.
Why it’s special
NÓMADA turns Valentine’s Day into a full night out. Dinner leads into music and late-night bites.
Valentine’s Day Restaurants San Diego Menu/Specials
Chef Alex Carballo teams up with MasterChef Champion and local favorite Chef Claudia Sandoval for a collaborative menu with wine pairings, available all weekend. The menu brings two cooking styles together in one experience. On Valentine’s Day, guests can stay after dinner for a free salsa lesson at 8:30 p.m., followed by dancing from 9 p.m. to midnight. A late-night oyster bar menu will also be offered for those who want to keep the night going.
Cuisine Style
Coastal and regional Mexican cooking.
Price Range
Pricing varies based on the menu and wine pairings.
Good to know
This is a great choice if you want more than just dinner. Plan to stay late and make an evening of it.
Oceana Coastal Kitchen
Location
Mission Beach at the Catamaran Resort on Mission Bay, with wide views of the water.
Why it’s romantic
Big bay views, open dining areas, and a complimentary champagne toast help set a relaxed, scenic mood.
Valentine’s Day restaurants San Diego Menu/Specials
Three‑course prix fixe dinner with dishes like roasted heirloom beet salad, a surf and turf entree, and a chocolate dessert, plus a champagne toast. Available Feb. 14 from about 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Cuisine Style
California coastal cuisine with fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients.
Price Range
About $89++ per person for the Valentine’s Day menu.
Good to know
Reservations are strongly encouraged. Seating is limited and fills up early for Valentine’s Day.
Ponyboy at The Pearl Hotel
Location
Point Loma, inside the mid-century modern Pearl Hotel.
Why it’s special
For the holiday, the hotel turns into a cheeky “Love Motel,” setting the tone for a fun, slightly irreverent night.
Valentine’s Day Menu/Specials
Ponyboy will serve a three-course prix-fixe menu throughout Valentine’s Day weekend, February 13–14. The menu starts with oysters and pearls with caviar or wagyu tartare. Mains include lobster thermidor over Old Bay risotto or a classic beef Wellington. Dessert is meant to be shared, with options like banana splits and chocolate fondue.
Ambiance
Romance-forward décor with a retro edge.
Cuisine Style
Upscale comfort food.
Good to know
This menu runs all weekend. Reservations are available through OpenTable.
Roppongi
Location
La Jolla, on Prospect Street.
Why it’s special
Valentine’s Day is one of the first big moments since its return, making this feel extra celebratory for longtime fans and first-time guests.
Valentine’s Day Menu/Specials
From Thursday, February 12, through Sunday, February 15, Roppongi will offer a six-course Valentine’s tasting menu designed for sharing. The experience is $200 per couple, with an optional drink pairing for $75 per person. Each course can be paired with wine, sake, or cocktails. Guests can also order from the full menu.
Ambiance
The redesigned space is bold and dramatic, with a gold-brushed feature wall, a central quartzite bar, custom furniture, and the original fireplace.
Cuisine Style
Upscale asian fusion food.
Good to know
This is a multi-night Valentine’s special.
Prohibition
Location
Downtown San Diego in the Gaslamp Quarter, hidden behind a speakeasy-style door on Fifth Avenue.
Why it’s romantic
Moody, intimate, and playful. The underground speakeasy vibe makes it perfect for couples or friends looking for a unique Valentine’s experience.
Valentine’s Day Restaurants San Diego Menu/Specials
On Saturday, Feb. 14, guests who show proof they’ve blocked an ex receive a complimentary bartender’s-choice whiskey shot.
Cuisine Style
Cocktail-focused speakeasy with classic drinks.
Price Range
Drinks are priced individually; special whiskey shot is complimentary for eligible guests.
Good to know
Reservations aren’t required, but arrive early to get a table.
Temaki Bar
Location
Encinitas, located on Coast Highway 101, just steps from the beach.
Why it’s romantic
Fun, social, and laid-back. It’s a great choice if you want something playful instead of a formal Valentine’s dinner.
Valentine’s Day Restaurants San Diego Menu/Specials
Temaki Bar celebrates Valentine’s Day with a $55 prix fixe menu where you choose your appetizer (Spicy Tuna crispy rice, Bang Bang shrimp, Yellowtail specialty sashimi), Handrolls, and Specialty Nigiri (Salmon, Yellowfin, Hamachi).
Cuisine Style
Modern sushi and hand rolls made with fresh, sustainable seafood.
Price Range
$55/person for the Valentine’s Day prix fixe menu.
Good to know
This spot is casual and energetic. It’s perfect for couples or friends who want great sushi without a stuffy vibe.
Water Grill
Downtown San Diego in the Gaslamp Quarter.
Why it’s romantic
Upscale yet welcoming with a polished dining room that still feels comfortable for a date night.
Valentine’s Day Restaurants San Diego Menu/Specials
Special Valentine’s Day prix fixe dinner featuring seafood favorites like crab cakes, lobster, salmon, and Chilean sea bass, plus dessert and optional wine pairings.
Cuisine Style
Seafood-focused American cuisine with an emphasis on fresh fish and shellfish.
Price Range
$135 for four courses
Good to know
Reservations are strongly recommended. A solid choice if you want classic seafood in an elegant but not stuffy setting.
ZENTRL Kitchen + Bar
Location
La Jolla, inside THE LOT at 7611 Fay Ave, with views of The LOT’s outdoor space and an easy walk to the cinema next door.
Liberty Station, 2620 Truxtun Rd, San Diego, CA 92106
Why it’s romantic
Live music, a complimentary glass of Prosecco for each guest, and a relaxed yet lively vibe make it a fun but still special night out.
Valentine’s Day restaurants San Diego Menu/Specials
Three‑course prix fixe dinner offered Feb. 14 from about 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Includes wine and champagne specials and a complimentary glass of Prosecco.
Cuisine Style
Modern California with eclectic and seasonal touches, plus thoughtful wine and cocktail pairings.
Price Range
$85 per guest for the Valentine’s Day prix fixe menu.
Good to know
Reservations are highly recommended. After dinner you can walk next door to THE LOT for a movie to end your evening.
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