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Building an outstanding restaurant wine list is hard and time-consuming. It takes finding out what types of wine go best with the cuisine in the restaurant, communicating with sommeliers and wine directors (see also: wine directors vs sommeliers), and of course, finding winemakers and distributors. If you want to source exotic wines, this job becomes even more complicated. It’s all worth it at the end when you can create the best wine pairings!
If you are a restaurant owner and you are struggling to build your wine list, you may need some inspiration from others in the industry. To help people like you, we have a series of articles dedicated to the top wine lists in major cities in the United States. We believe that by learning about restaurants all over the country and their best wines, you can get a glimpse at what people may enjoy at your establishment, too. That’s why we want to tell you about the 10 best San Diego wine lists!
In case you are not running a business in the hospitality industry and landed on this page, you may find it helpful to know which restaurants in San Diego are worth visiting. Wine enthusiasts will agree with us and will recommend the same dining spots! Got your interest? Let’s dive right into it!
10 Best San Diego Wine Lists at Local Restaurants
San Diego has never been considered the place to be if you are looking for food experiences. Unlike San Francisco, the city did not surprise people with great cuisine or extensive beverage menus. However, this started to change recently. Now San Diego is stepping up their casual and fine dining game and is on the edge of becoming the new place for foodies and wine lovers.
The San Diego wine lists are not as many as the best wine lists in Miami, for example. Regardless, they deserve attention and a good wine tasting!
Key Takeaway: There are plenty of amazing San Diego wine lists that deserve attention from both wine lovers and other restaurant owners. Get inspired by their selections and create your own unique wine lists that complement the food, show appreciation for the region, and reflect the customers’ preferences.
Restaurant #1: Addison
This restaurant is well-known for its contemporary French cuisine and the extensive selection of rare and premium wines. The wines are from all over the world, but the focus is mostly on French and Californian wines. When you are dining at Addison you can pair the delicious French dishes with top Burgundy and Bordeaux labels, as well as a variety of champagnes. This is the place to be if you are a true lover of red wine and sparkling wines.
Restaurant #2: George's at the Cove
Looking for a restaurant with a modern American style of cuisine? George's at the Cove is the place you are looking for and you will be pleasantly surprised to learn that they have one of the best San Diego wine lists! The wine list at this restaurant pairs perfectly with seafood dishes. The list also includes a lot of Californian wines like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon. There are types of white wine including plenty of international options. This is a great place to dine if you want a lighter, seafood-based meal combined with premium white wines.
Restaurant #3: Juniper & Ivy
At Juniper & Ivy you can enjoy new American and progressive cuisine. This place can impress you not only with the dishes but with one of the best San Diego wine lists. The wines they serve complement their innovative cuisine. The wine selections highlight both local Californian wines, as well as international varieties. At Juniper & Ivy you can have high-quality wine from Spain and Italy that will pair perfectly with your meal.
Restaurant #4: The Marine Room
If you want to enjoy incredible Californian seafood alongside some of the best San Diego wine lists, you need to stop by The Marine Room. This restaurant's wine list is designed to pair with their fresh, seasonal seafood dishes. It also includes a mix of crisp white wines, such as Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling, as well as fuller-bodied reds like Pinot Noir and Merlot. There is a type of wine for any taste, and seafood dishes will amaze every diner!
Restaurant #5: MARKET Restaurant + Bar
This is the place to enjoy high-quality, creative American cuisine. The MARKET Restaurant + Bar offers a diverse wine list that includes both Californian and international wines. The focus is on wines that complement their innovative and eclectic dishes, including Syrah, Zinfandel, and Chardonnay. If you are in the area, you should not miss the opportunity to enjoy one of the finest San Diego wine lists!
Restaurant #6: Nine-Ten
Nine-Ten is the place where you can have incredible Californian cuisine and quality wines. Their wine list is globally inspired and pairs well with the restaurant’s seasonal menu. Expect a strong representation of Californian wines alongside European varieties, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon. There is something for everyone here!
Restaurant #7: Puesto La Jolla
One of the best San Diego wine lists that you can appreciate while having delicious modern Mexican cuisine is at Puesto La Jolla. While the place is more casual, it offers wines that pair perfectly with their Mexican cuisine. The bottles are mostly from California and Spain, and the focus is on the bright, acidic whites and robust reds.
Restaurant #8: Born & Raised
All the steak lovers need to visit Born & Raised! This steakhouse is known for its luxurious meals and offers a wine list emphasizing bold reds, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Syrah. The list also includes a variety of sparkling wines and champagne. It’s one of the best San Diego wine lists in terms of variety and quality of wine.
Restaurant #9: Trust
Trust is also a restaurant offering modern American cuisine. Their wine list is focused on small producers with a selection of natural wines and biodynamic options. The list includes a variety of whites, reds, and rosés from both California and Europe. American wines definitely deserve attention, especially when the food is modern American.
Restaurant #10: Wine Vault & Bistro
Last but not least, another restaurant with contemporary American cuisine and an incredible wine list is Wine Vault & Bistro. It offers a well-curated wine list that focuses on boutique and lesser-known wineries. The selections highlight both Californian and international wines, with a particular emphasis on small producers. Expect a diverse range of wines from regions like Napa Valley, Sonoma, and various European vineyards, including varietals such as Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Chardonnay.
If you want to build an incredible wine list for your own restaurant similar to these San Diego wine lists, you should not only do your research but also take advantage of software like BinWise. With the help of our platform, you can create your wine list, manage your beverage inventory, and help your business grow and succeed! Find out more by booking a demo with us today!
Frequently Asked Questions about San Diego Wine Lists
If you want to learn more about San Diego wine lists, you should read the questions we have answered below!
Are There Any San Diego Restaurants with a Focus on Local Wines?
Yes, many San Diego restaurants emphasize local Californian wines, particularly from nearby regions like Napa Valley and Sonoma. Restaurants like Juniper & Ivy and Market Restaurant + Bar are known for featuring local wines that complement their menus.
How Do San Diego Restaurants Choose Wines for Their Lists?
Restaurants in San Diego typically select wines that complement their cuisine. Chefs and sommeliers often work together to curate a list that balances local and international wines, focusing on varietals that pair well with the restaurant's signature dishes.
Can I Find Natural or Biodynamic Wines on San Diego Wine Lists?
Yes! Restaurants like Trust in San Diego are known for featuring natural and biodynamic wines, catering to the growing demand for more sustainable and organic wine options.