Best Cheat Meals in San Diego

Your ultimate guide to guilt-free indulgence in San Diego

78901
Total Reviews
4.6
Avg Rating
$ - $$$$
Price Range
17
Cuisines

Top Cheat Meal Spots

Oscar's Mexican Seafood

(12345 reviews)
$
Mexican Seafood

Famous for Baja-style fish tacos. The Spicy Shrimp Torta is worth breaking any diet for.

Fish Tacos Mexican Local Favorite Fresh
703 Turquoise St, San Diego, CA 92109
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Hodad's

(15678 reviews)
$$
Burgers

Ocean Beach institution known for massive burgers. The Bacon Cheeseburger is legendary.

Burgers Local Favorite Worth the Wait Ocean Beach
5010 Newport Ave, San Diego, CA 92107
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Extraordinary Desserts

(9876 reviews)
$$$
Desserts

Upscale dessert restaurant. The Viking is the ultimate chocolate lover's cheat day dream.

Desserts Fancy Worth the Splurge Instagram Worthy
2929 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103
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Tacos El Gordo

(14321 reviews)
$
Mexican

Authentic Tijuana-style tacos. The Adobada (marinated pork) tacos are must-tries.

Tacos Authentic Late Night Worth the Wait
689 H St, Chula Vista, CA 91910
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The Donut Bar

(8765 reviews)
$$
Donuts

Gourmet donuts with creative flavors. The Big Poppa Tart donut is worth every calorie.

Donuts Breakfast Worth the Wait Instagram Famous
631 B St, San Diego, CA 92101
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Phil's BBQ

(21345 reviews)
$$
BBQ

San Diego's favorite BBQ spot. The El Toro (beef ribs) is their signature dish.

BBQ Local Favorite Worth the Wait Large Portions
3750 Sports Arena Blvd, San Diego, CA 92110
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Salt & Straw

(7654 reviews)
$$
Ice Cream

Artisanal ice cream with unique flavors. The Sea Salt with Caramel Ribbons is a must-try.

Ice Cream Artisanal Unique Flavors Worth It
1670 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
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Lucha Libre Taco Shop

(11234 reviews)
$$
Mexican

Wrestling-themed taco shop. The Surfin' California burrito with shrimp is legendary.

Mexican Unique Fun Atmosphere Local Favorite
1810 W Washington St, San Diego, CA 92103
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Local Tips for San Diego

Patio Life

Take advantage of San Diego's perfect weather - most spots have great outdoor seating!

Taco Tuesday

Many places offer Taco Tuesday specials - perfect for trying multiple spots!

Beach Eats

Each beach neighborhood has its own food personality - explore them all!

Timing Tips

Popular spots like Phil's BBQ and Tacos El Gordo are best visited during off-peak hours.

Border Food

Some of the best Mexican food is found near the border - worth the drive south!