Costa Brava

114

728

1003

4 years ago

My absolute favorite restaurant in San Diego. They have always treated us like family, and every time we come in we are welcomed and greeted. Service is spectacular and they pay attention to everything from refilling drinks to taking away empty plates. Each dish is special in its own - they have happy hour from 5-6 on Wednesday's and thursdays. Their pitcher of sangria is a lot of fun to add along with your tapas. My favorites are the patatas a la brava and the white bean soup. I also like the filet mignon skewers. If you order a few plates it's enough to feed 2-3 people, after picking at everything and having their fresh bread alongside your tapas, you end up leaving full. They do take reservations and I'd suggest doing that especially on a weekend! read more

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Dena A.

102

132

3 years ago

Came here for dinner, but it was during happy hour and really enjoyed it! The sangria was pretty good. We ordered the calamari, blood sausage and chorizo sandwiches which were good (that bread makes anything taste good). Also ordered the marinated octopus, and patatas bravas which were delicious! Our favorite though was the paella mixta! Good stuff! Definitely want to come back again during happy hour and try more food! read more

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Sean P.

2 years ago

Food takes longer to prepare so take that into consideration, parking is also a nightmare. Great quality Spanish cuisine, had the salmon and lobster dish. Great value overall. I'd definitely visit this place again. read more

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Pierre V.

4 years ago

Great Spanish food! Having lived in Spain for many years, I've searched for an authentic Spanish restaurant serving great tasting food. I have to say this is my favorite to date and I've tried so many in Southern California. From tapas to paella, the flavor is there using great Spanish ingredients. They have a mini store next door where you can purchase good ingredients and spices. read more

Costa Brava - Jamón serrano, queso manchego (cheese), anchovies and a glass of Carlos Serres Rioja wine. - Tapas Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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易

3 years ago

Really good restaurant. My girlfriend and I went here several times and they were all great experiences. read more

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Saleen M.

1065

2588

2310

8 years ago

Spanish style tapas for the win! Make a reservation, this is a very popular restaurant & for a very good reason, their food is bomb! They have a covered patio which is dog friendly. They have live music. Great, attentive customer service! They have tapas & entrees, I recommend getting several tapas especially if it is your first time there so you can try a variety of things! My fiancé & I shared 5 tapas & we were stuffed at the end. Gambas al Ajillo: Shrimp in Garlic. Holy smokes! This is a must order! Incredibly flavorful. I could drink the sauce, thankfully they give complimentary bread to soak up all of the sauce. Pulpo a la Gallega: Octopus with olive oil & spicy paprika. Chopped up octopus, very tender & good. Datiles con Tocino: Dates wrapped with bacon. A must order! Delicious, savory & sweet. Patatas a la Brava: Spicy potatoes. Crispy potatoes, love the sauce. Rabo de Toro: Ox tail. This also comes as an entree. Very tender, mmm! read more

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Shena R.

282

281

479

5 years ago

I've been coming here for years. They have amazing tapas, sangria and bread. Since COVID I've been about 5 times but last week I was unpleasantly surprised to find that I could not be seated for happy hour since we didn't have a reservation and the patio was MOSTLY FULL (there were still 2 large tables available) but I'm assuming they wanted to save those for a larger party. I have never needed a reservation for happy hour before so this was very disappointing to me. The manager and hostess looked in the system to find the next available table, and told us it would be 2 hours later (way after happy hour already ended) but the manager invited us to sit in the rear dining area (where happy hour was not taking place) to pay FULL PRICE for dinner ..... I am disappointed that my years of patronage are not important enough to accommodate 2 people for happy hour due to lack of available seating. Like, you're the manager, you could have a accommodated happy hour in the secondary area since it's not the customers fault you don't have available seating.... but rather than deal with the poor customer service, I went to Cafe Sevilla and had a great time there instead. read more

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Kibby S.

311

2 years ago

10/10 I love this place and Mateo is an amazing server. I also love the oxtail tips and bacon wrapped dates ambiance is nice especially for a date and the food is to die for highly enjoyed this place read more

Costa Brava - Paella - Tapas Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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Mateo M.

125

547

1962

8 years ago

I came here for my birthday on a recommendation from a client. This place is hidden back from the street, and deceptively large! We made a reservation and were seated immediately, and presented with the menu...which is a bit overwhelming with the tapas choices! We ordered octapus, calamari, lamb skewers, bacon wrapped dates and a baked egg and potatoes. My favorite was definitely the bacon wrapped dates, followed by the lamb. We also ordered some red sangria, which I highly recommend getting by the pitcher...it was the real highlight, and some the the best sangria I've had! All in all a solid experience, however this place is definitely multiple dollar signs, so perhaps for special occasions only! read more

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Dexter Z.

Elite 24

345

658

123

4 years ago

Wow, now this is tapas dining at its finest. What a great time this place is! The service is super authentic and the staff know the menu well. Wonderful place to share food with good friends. Highlights are definitely the sliced octopus, bacon wrapped dates, rabbit shank, and the cheesecake. The sangria is pretty amazing as well. Overall super fun place and I would say a must see if in PB. read more

Costa Brava - Cheesecake :) - Tapas Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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April A.

2 years ago

Absolutely everything here is delicious. I've been a returning customer for the past 14 years. Service at the bar or dinning area is great. Must try it all. My favorite is gambas al ajillo, filet mignon and the delicious Sangrias. read more

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M C.

3 years ago

We just didn't see the fuss about this. The Spanish Howard Johnson's of tapas. The food was just ok. Unimaginative. Terrible bread. Very formulaic. Putting things in small plates does not make it tapas. Fried potatoes seemed like fast food. They are not preparing things per order here. Service is fast, too fast, with a strong upsell focus. Sangria was like a kid's drink but ok. We won't go back. read more

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Victoria E.

285

4 years ago

This is my favorite restaurant in San Diego. I love coming here for celebrations, date nights, or just a dinner with friends. It was such a warm and intimate ambiance, I would have never expected such a gem to be right off of Garnet! Make sure to make a reservation in advance, I usually try to make a reservation DAYS (maybe even a week) in advance to ensure I can get a table because the wait time for walk ins are always insane (or maybe I've just never been lucky). read more

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Vic F.

647

4 years ago

To me it was just OK to be honest. I was all hyped up by the reviews but they seem to be very middle of the road. I expected much more unami from the oxtail, mushrooms, and sardines. The best dish we had was the octopus cooked in paprika, this was very tasty. Possible my tastes are not suited towards this type of cuisine. The sangria was good, as well as the warm bread and garlic butter. read more

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Delca A.

2 years ago

Pretty good authentic Spanish food. Quality is great but it's on the pricier end for the tapas menu. We've always had good food/good service. read more

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Natalie T.

319

300

289

6 years ago

I fricken love this place. The butter that comes with the bread is literally so addicting. My favorite thing about this place though is that I could order all of the exotic dishes that I LOVE. If you like weird food like me I would definately recommend the cold pulpo (octopus), escargot( snails), and bacarones (sardines). It's all sooo good. And if you don't like the exotic dishes like me everything else is good too lol. The tapas and entrees are amazing. Great for a girls night or date night :) read more

Costa Brava - (Bottom to top) Hot pulpo, bacarones, escargot - Tapas Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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L L.

2 years ago

This place is the best and the service is excellent! The food is authentic and delicious.

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Brindan B.

3 years ago

Overgrown,squirrelly older Spanish Tapas place that I drove by for years. Stop here for garlic shrimp, Manchego cheese, Txakoli wine and green olives with anchovies! The flavors were fresh yet the memories of traveling in Spain that the foods brought forth were old and powerful. Now I want to come back to try the paella! read more

Costa Brava - 5 Spanish Cheeses- the blue is hidden under the olives. Tablas de Quesos Espanoles - Tapas Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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Kym A.

2 years ago

Best Paella & Tapas in San Diego. We go there each time with are is SD. Ask for thepatio for romantic dinner.

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John H.

4 years ago

Authentic Spanish food - as someone who used to live & work in Spain (& miss their food) I enjoyed our party of 4 dinner last week. The portions were not as generous as I had hoped but we ordered extra food to make up for that & enjoyed the evening overall. Special shout out for the Sangria - excellent & the Black Squid Ink rice was very good too. Wanted to try the renowned Seafood Paella ( the main reason I went) but I was only one that ordered it & they only accept orders for 2 or more sadly... Tables well spaced out too read more

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Roy C.

Elite 25

323

641

5 years ago

I missed eating in a good Spanish restaurant. I would recommend COSTA Brava, it reminded me of being in Madrid. It has a patio in the front and a bar . It does way back but that seating was limited. Menu is packed and the wine list is very good. On to the food we had the bacalao croquettes, which were actually balls. They started with warm roll and garlic aioli. We then went on to pulpo mad little eels with fried garlic. Had the oxtail stew tapas version closed with the salmon relleno and and squid ink pallets. We had a flan and Spanish coffee. Started with sherry and mojito then went to sangria.Ox Tail Es Bueno read more

Costa Brava - Back of menu - Tapas Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

Costa Brava - Eels - Tapas Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

Costa Brava - Squid ink palella - Tapas Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

Costa Brava - Flan - Tapas Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

Costa Brava - Salmon Relleno - Tapas Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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David C.

2 years ago

Great authentic Spanish food, and incredible wine list! Be sure to order the Beronia rioja and Tío Pepe sherry!

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Carol C.

2 years ago

If you are looking for great Spanish food and or tapas this is the place to go. Food is great and service is great too. They have a nice patio in the back for large groups and a front patio too. Great place to go! read more

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Andrea U.

178

4 years ago

Delicious food and the staff have a family atmosphere! It is so fun and can't wait to come back again. Very authentic. My faves: gambas al ajillo, croquetas de jamón, Gin y Tonic. read more

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Kyle D.

2 years ago

Excellent food and service. I love the shared tapas and atmosphere. I like to go here at least once a month.

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Sandy K.

111

4 years ago

This is our favorite place to celebrate every special occasion. From the hostess to our servers are all amazing. I love the live music at night, and everyone is so friendly. read more

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Raquel J.

5 years ago

The best place to have a paella in San Diego ! Their chorizo and papas bravas are to Die for! I crave this place all the time . I like their Spanish food More than I did the food in Madrid ! And you have to have their delicious sangria. Super cute place and they always have soccer televised. Have to have a reservation ! read more

Costa Brava - Chorizó, papas bravas and sangría ! - Tapas Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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Courtney L.

151

175

4 years ago

I love this place. I always take visitors here as well as frequent alone. The food, drinks, and vibe are amazing. I love the shrimp and garlic, patatas bravas , bacon wrapped dates, filet skewerS for tapas. The paella and ox tail are amazing entrees. And of course you should get a pitcher of Sangria! read more

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Johanna P.

2 years ago

Amazingly delicious food and amazing ppl! Beautiful place! These are the plates I grew up eating when I was younger. read more

Costa Brava - Patata - Tapas Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

Costa Brava - Tortilla Española - Tapas Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

Costa Brava - Chuleta con papá Croqueta Tortilla Española - Tapas Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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Ángela S.

5 years ago

Food was good, the tapas were delicious and the paella was on point. Also the sangria was really refreshing. Service could be better, we didn't get checked in a lot and it took forever to get anything. The servers were just walking around us and never asked if we needed anything. We actually left the card over the table before they even brought the check because we didn't want to it. But for sure will go back to try the rest of the menu! read more

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Melodie H.

100

2 years ago

beautiful ambiance and delicious tapas were unfortunately overshadowed by the service. the evening was marred by our server's unprofessional behavior. We faced an awkward moment when our server insisted on a cash tip instead of processing it on a card. While the culinary experience and decor were nice, the evening could have been significantly improved with more professional service. read more

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Lucia H.

3 years ago

Excellent cuisine ! Delicious tapas and the service was great ! We would greatly enjoy returning - a mùsica or a flamenco show would be an exceptional addition to your restaurant read more

Costa Brava - Birthday celebration at Costa Brava - Tapas Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

Costa Brava - Excellent staff ! The waiter was so engaging and made the evening extra special . - Tapas Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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Page 10 of 70

1653 Garnet Ave
San Diego, CA 92109
Pacific Beach
Directions
(858) 273-1218
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.costabravasd.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Costa Brava open?

Costa Brava opens at 5:00 PM on Wednesday and Thursday.Costa Brava opens at 11:00 AM on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Costa Brava close?

Costa Brava is closed on Monday and Tuesday.Costa Brava closes at 11:00 PM on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Mon-Tue ClosedWed-Thu 5:00 PM - 11:00 PMFri-Sun 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Costa Brava take credit cards?

Yes, Costa Brava takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Costa Brava have catering options?

No, Costa Brava does not have catering options.

Does Costa Brava have a drive thru?

No, Costa Brava does not have a drive thru.

Does Costa Brava have a happy hour?

Yes, Costa Brava has a happy hour.

Does Costa Brava serve alcohol?

Yes, Costa Brava serves alcohol. Full Bar

Indoor Amenities

Does Costa Brava allow dogs?

Yes, Costa Brava allows dogs.

Does Costa Brava have TVs?

Yes, Costa Brava has TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Costa Brava have bike parking?

Yes, Costa Brava has bike parking.

Does Costa Brava have outdoor seating?

Yes, Costa Brava has outdoor seating options.

Does Costa Brava have parking?

Yes, Costa Brava has parking options. Street Parking

Other Amenities

Is Costa Brava wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Costa Brava is wheelchair accessible.

Does Costa Brava have free WiFi?

No, Costa Brava does not have free WiFi.

More Info

Health Score

Costa Brava Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - Costa Brava

What is parking like?

It's hard to find parking. I usually try to park on the streets right behind the restaurant even if I have to walk a little. It also depends on what times you go. Late in the afternoon is not hard to find and sometimes there is parking right in…

No answers yet. Be the first to answer.

Do they have live music? I need my flamenco and Gipsy Kings vibe.

How do you get seated inside? I've come here a handful of times with a reservation and every time we walk past multiple open tables inside and get sat in the back patio area.

They get busy, I would call days in advance and reserve

Do they split the check if there is a large party of people?

Not sure, ask them first. In general, I rarely do that. One person usually pays and then rest pay…

Is there parking nearby?

Street parking, but it's the luck of the draw. If you can walk or catch a ride service, you'll find it easier. On a weeknight (not Friday), it shouldn't be a challenge. However, Costa Brava is worth it!! All the best.

No answers yet. Be the first to answer.

When is Happy Hour?

Happy hour is Tuesday - Thursday 5 pm-6pm for 1/2 price Sangria and a selected menu of Tapas at 1/2 price. I believe this is only at the bar and the seats fill up quickly at happy hour.

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What days of the week and what time do you have flamenco dance?

Are the owners and chefs Spanish?

While I didn't meet owner / chef I believe yes. The people serving us were definitely from Spain

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Casual attire OK?

Definitely!

Does this place have live music?

They have flamenco dancing on Sunday not sure about live music. just call them.

What are the must gets at this place? There is so much good stuff to choose from!

My boyfriend and I always get Papas Bravas, everything is amazing! You really can't go wrong. The Ox, I believe is a good choice. Croquetas are some of my favorites along with the mushrooms.

I see that they have outdoor seating - does anyone know if they allow small dogs?

Yes they do, on their patio.

Do you have to sit at the bar for happy hour?

No- we have had happy hour on the front porch

Do they do brunch? Is there a menu we could see?

I'm pretty sure they don't do brunch. You can see their menu at their website www.costabravasd.com. I highly recommend this restaurant

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I'm looking for a vegan friendly tapas restaurant, does this restaurant offer vegan options?

I don't think this is your place.

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Would this place be suitable for a big party of about 40 people?

You'd probably have to rent the entire place for that. I'd suggest giving them a call.

Went there yesterday (Friday) at 5pm and sat at the bar for happy hour. My check came with full price. Asked them and they said no more happy hour?? What happened?

Happy Hour is Sunday - Thursday from 4pm-6pm Come and enjoy 1/2 price Sangria and a selected menu of…

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4.4

(80 reviews)

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Needed some adventure and I've been missing Spain, so I leashed up my pup and headed to Little…read moreItaly. It's about as close to Madrid (other than Balboa Park) as you're going to get in the county of San Diego...especially if you sit down at Barra Oliba. I literally felt like I was in a café in Madrid or Barcelona and enjoyed not only the familiar salty flavors that I've missed from Spain, but also the pure, rich, olive oil, and quiet ambiance as this is one block from the busiest part of Little Italy. My server, German, (his name) enjoyed helping me create the ideal light supper and allowed me to try a few Spanish wines (they have so many!). I settled on a Verdejo from Rueda. It was the right balance of fruit, acid, and slight floral to perfectly pair to my meal. I had the seasonal fish meuniere - white fish delicious and crispy on top (my favorite), garnished with capers and roe. It was accompanied with a tender lettuce and heirloom tomato salad with saffron dressing. The leftover dressing for the salad was the most amazing vinegar dip for a couple tater tots when I got home. The dressing was something I will go back for! Thank you, Barra Oliba for the perfect Spanish "girl dinner!" Can't wait to come back and try the Paella!

This place is so dreamy! I ate outside with my girlfriend. The restroom was AMAZINGLY beautiful, it…read morewas giving goth but classy. I only took pictures of the restroom, lol, i should have taken pictures of the food but I was trying to be present with my friend. The food was great. I had the sangria and then the verdesco, every drink was delicious! We did miss some greens but i think it's because I didn't really know how to order. It was my first time having tapas. We ordered the papas bravas and the octopus, and finally a bread with chorizo on top ( i cant remember the name) all the dishes were so well seasoned, delicious! I will totally go back to try more of their yummy food. The prices were on the higher scale. The service was impressively very personable. I loved every single little part of it.

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(36 reviews)

3.8 mi

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The wonderful outdoor patio - B&W artistic photo snap "Cafe Turquoise"

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Havana Grill

amazing cuban, legit. satisfied…read more idk what other review said about it being dry juicy and authentic

This review is from the last time I had oxtails here before they took them off the menu and…read moresubsequently closed. I visit Havana Grill whenever I want some tasty oxtail. I noticed oxtail was one of the specials. Last time I visited the oxtail was on the regular menu and you could order it anytime. Oxtail was extremely tender and juicy. The mix of beef flavor and the spices in the sauce were delicious. This is my favorite oxtail dish in town. French fries were crisp and had a delicious fried flavor. The oil was fresh and there was no aftertaste. Excellent fries. Pineapple upside down cake was dense and did not have a fresh baked aura. The outside part was starting to harden like it was getting stale so I guess it was baked at least a day ago. Cake had a mostly mild flavor. I didn't taste the pineapple though the top was lined with it. I did taste a ton of ginger flavor. It appears pieces of ginger were mixed in with the pineapple. I love ginger as part of soy/ginger seasoning for fish but not in a cake. This is one of the worst pineapple upside down cakes I have had. My favorite is at Roy's where you have to give them 30 minute notice and they bake it to order. Roy's version was piping hot out of the oven, was moist and fluffy, with amazing pineapple flavor. Staff provided fast and friendly service.

Havana Grill

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Enoteca Adriano

Foodies Founding Member Robyn and I head to Enoteca Adriana this past Saturday for an early dinner…read more And I must tell you, if you like Italian Food, this is the place to go in Pacific Beach. With all the choices in Pacific Beach, are you sure? Yes. I'm sure. With both indoor and outdoor seating and a staff that lives to accommodate, this is one of the top 5 on my list. We start with Ceasar Salad, bread and wine. Each is to its' perfection. The Salad is perfectly presented, perfectly dressed. The bread has what looks like butter dripping out, but is actually cheese. And the Wine is from Orvieto Italy. Robyn has been there and makes this great suggestion for the wine. What's next chef? We eat small portions of the Orecchiette Bosco and Capellini Pomodoro with Shrimp. We save the rest for lunch the next day (and next day it's even better)! We are saving ourselves for dessert, Robyn's favorite part of the meal. We order Pistachio Cheesecake (not with cream cheese but ricotta), Tiramisu and Pope's Pillow (probably because after you taste it you think you died and went to heaven)! lol All three are nothing but perfection. It's great for date night later in the evening, girls night, family night if you go early. And there aren't too many other places I'm thinking about going back to and taking San Diego Foodies and Carlsbad Foodies to! This my friend is IT. Let's go! With garlic, gusto and gratitude, Chef Marian San Diego Foodies Carlsbad Foodies

Such a beautiful outside restaurant…read more The service was amazing, wine selection was top notch and the main dishes were amazing, and the deserts were amazing as well.

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Flama Llama

Flama Llama is a hidden gem! I love that they keep the menu focused - you can tell they put real…read morecare and heart into every dish instead of trying to offer everything. The Crudo (sashimi) was incredibly fresh with the perfect spicy, garlicky kick. We also had the Lomo Saltado with beef and shrimp and the Garlic Noodles with chicken, and both were packed with flavor and cooked perfectly. Fresh ingredients, unique Peruvian-inspired dishes, and excellent execution. We'll definitely be back!

The service is really good here and they do have really yummy food, more of like a cooked meal type…read moreof feeling when you're tired of fast food restaurants. I would recommend for a date night or if you wanna just come and get any by yourself and they're not that expensive 20 bucks for plate. Me and my boyfriend came here to celebrate my birthday and we were not disappointed.

Inside from the table we're sitting at. Plenty of seating at 5:30 on a Sunday

Lomo saltado

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Mojo pork w/ crispy fries instead of plantains

Vinya

Great wine bar and great place to meet friends. I love the monthly wine club selections and the…read morefood that goes with them. Sometimes I come with friends or sometimes just for a quiet glass of wine to wind down at the end of the day.

VINYA VINO + VINYASA…read more I came here with a few girlfriends for their Brunch Flow class, which includes a post-Vinyasa mimosa. When you walk in, the space is a fun surprise with an open concept including a restaurant/bar on the right and a yoga studio with a small retail shop on the left. It caught me by surprised and at first, I thought I went into the wrong door haha Nope, it's just a big space. I forgot my mat, but they rent them for just $3. Inside the studio, everything was spotless. The blocks looked brand new and they had these beautiful handmade blankets that added a cozy, personal touch I haven't seen at other studios. I used it for my knees during certain poses. The instructor's playlist was engaging yet soothing and set the perfect tone for class. FOOD After class, instead of the included mimosas, we grabbed fresh orange juice and a nonalcoholic kombucha and both were delicious. I ordered the Burrata salad and it was outstanding: creamy burrata, fresh arugula and perfectly toasted walnuts. One of my friends ordered the green eggs and loved it as well. SERVICE Everyone we interacted with was friendly and helpful. We made our reservations beforehand online without any issues, check-in was quick, renting the mat was easy and the staff at the restaurant side were upbeat and welcoming. It all felt very effortless and organized. AMBIENCE The entire space is decorated beautifully. It felt warm, modern and inviting. The restaurant side has plenty of seating for small to medium groups and the layout makes the yoga-to-brunch flow feel seamless. It's a unique space that feels both energizing and relaxing. It was a perfect vibe for us to have a girls date doing yoga and then grabbing food after. PARKING HUGE plus: lots of parking. This spot is in a strip mall with a shared lot, so parking was plentiful and totally stress-free which is something I always appreciate when heading to a class. I recently discovered they're on ClassPass, so I'll definitely be coming back and signing up for more classes. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a fun yoga experience with great food and great vibes!

Brussels sprouts

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Brussel sprouts

Luce Bar & Kitchen

One of our favorite weekly spots for dinner. Always amazing food and drinks, fantastic staff. This…read moreis a big family/local bar kitchen for our neighborhood. We're sitting at the bar as usual, they know our drink preferences! Soccer and baseball on the tvs. And then it was time for hockey. 2 screens of hockey 2 screens of soccer over the bar. And THEN one screen flipped from hockey to the freaking UFC fight at the White House. I had to put my hand up to cover the screen showing highlights of previous fights while trying to eat my dinner. I told the bartender I didn't want to see guys beating each other in the head while eating my dinner. He said we don't normally have fights on but the owner requested it. I mentioned that there are children sitting right behind me. We asked for the check and a box for the rest of my meal. So disappointed. Do better Luce's.

Luce Bar & Kitchen is one of my favorite spots whenever I'm visiting my cousin in San Diego. Since…read moreit's close to his house, we end up coming here almost every trip. The food is consistently excellent. The Honey Pie Pizza is a must, the Luce Burger is always on point, the Fried Chicken Piccata Sandwich is packed with flavor, and the Tuna Crab Melt is another favorite. You really can't go wrong with anything on the menu. The service is always friendly, attentive, and makes you feel welcome from the moment you walk in. Great food, great service, and a place I always look forward to coming back to. Highly recommend!

Bar area w/t.v. screens

Quinoa & Carrot Salad

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Strawberry mule

Din Tai Fung

What a great experience! We were celebrating the closing of real estate deal and decided to have…read morelunch here. Heard a lot of hype and great comments about the food. I'll have to say our server by the name of ETHAN was outstanding he was very attentive, checked on the table frequently and ensured our food got out in a timely manner and was very pleasant to deal with. The food was great, portion size were appropriate and everybody left happy after their meal and dessert. I would definitely come back again. ** I would highly recommend that you make reservations, if you arrive during a peak time there'll be a long wait.

Always great food and service! If you like dumplings it is a must. I have been in many of their…read morelocations and enjoyed them all.

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Starlite

I absolutely loved this place! Everything felt reasonably priced, especially compared to similar…read morespots in San Diego. My only complaint was that we didn't get to sit in the disco room--it looked so fun and was definitely one of the coolest parts of the restaurant. We skipped the cocktail menu and ordered pornstar martinis instead, and they were incredible. The passionfruit tasted fresh and natural, not overly sweet or artificial. For food, we shared the mozzarella sticks with caviar crème fraîche ($23), which came with a surprisingly generous portion of caviar. We also ordered the Caesar salad, which was a great size for sharing, and the Starlight Burger with a Wagyu patty and fries. Everything was delicious and exceeded our expectations. The service was just as impressive. Our server was attentive without being overbearing and checked in frequently to make sure we had everything we needed. Overall, every part of the experience was on point. Great food, great drinks, great service, and such a fun atmosphere. I'll definitely be back!

I had a reservation for Thursday and it was packed but took less than 5 minutes to get seated. They…read moredo check your ID at the entrance it's 21+ only. Parking is a nightmare good luck finding parking within a mile of the restaurant. Pros: atmosphere, drinks, service Cons: food wasn't great for the price, restaurant was small and crowded, no parking Service: All of our servers were friendly and very accommodating. Gave us some knowledge on the menu and recommended cocktails based on our preference. I had spilled my drink and they were quick to make me another one. Food: I had intended to get the prime ribeye cap steak but they ran out for the night around 8pm. I shared the steak sampler which came with four different cuts of steak and 4 sauces. I ordered medium and it was cooked medium/medium rare which was fine with me, it also had a good sear, almost burnt though. Out of the four steaks, we only liked two based off flavor and tenderness. The other two were more tough and gamey. None of the sauces really stood out but the bordelaise and horseradish were good. For our sides we got fries, roasted broccoli, and the grilled wedge salad. Fries were average. The roasted broccoli had really good flavor, I expected the broccoli to be al dente but it was cooked to mush and drenched in sauce. The grilled wedge salad was decent, there was a slightly bitter taste to it. I know it says grilled wedge but the experience of biting into the salad and it being both hot and cold was not pleasant. Cocktails: I tried the Honey Ryder and New Wave. These were recommended as the more fruity/sweet cocktails. You can definitely taste the alcohol but it's only 2oz so it's not too strong. Ambience: 10/10 I got seated downstairs by the bar. Only thing about downstairs is that it's too dark to take photos unless you use flash. Overall, I agree with the other reviews saying to go just for drinks and appetizers. I would go again just to sit upstairs and get drinks and take pictures. We left unsatisfied and ended up getting in-n-out after.

Pistachio ice cream sandwich

Bar area after entering

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Cocktails are fun!

Malibu Farm

(2.3k reviews)

7.5 mi

Great vibes and service. Drinks are always so yummy. Leo was especially nice and very helpful!read more

Great brunch, service and ambiance, everything tastes fresh keeping concept farm to tableread more

SPACIOUS and CLEAN !

Catch of Day

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Strawberry Matcha Latte

Allegro Restaurant and Bar

Hannuela was absolutely fabulous! Super sweet. Have great recommendations. Food was great as well.read more

Manuela was a fantastic server! Everything was wonderful and she made our experience so special and…read morefun!!

Tiramisu Cocktail Allegro Little Italy

Delicious Chilean Seabass

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Allegro little italy san diego delicious food

Born & Raised

Born and Raised in San Diego was such a great experience! The food was fabulous, everything we…read moreordered was flavorful and beautifully prepared. The drinks were excellent too, and the atmosphere has such a fun, elegant vibe. A special thank you to Fiona, our host, who was amazing! We had an 8:00 PM reservation but arrived much earlier, and she was so friendly and accommodating. She was able to find us a spot at the bar, and we ended up having a wonderful time. Great food, great drinks, beautiful ambiance, and excellent hospitality. Definitely a place I would recommend and visit again!

Always such a treat! For the last few years I've enjoyed dining here while visiting for an annual…read moretrip with family and friends. This place has quickly become a "must have" when we visit and each time has been such a wonderful experience. We try different things each time and have not yet been disappointed. I'd like to give a special shout out to our server, Scott, who has always provided exceptional service and elevated our personalized experience each time. I would highly recommend the steak flight, dirty hashbrowns, and the carrot cake! We had a slight issue one time, however it did not detract from our experience and was more than made up for. We've sat downstairs in the restaurant which offers a beautiful interior and a more intimate experience, as well as upstairs in their beautiful al fresco seating area which provides a beautiful city view and sea breeze and is for sure our preferred seating for our dining experience. Thank you for making our trip that much better and for always providing the most exceptional service and experience!

Dirty hash browns with trout roe, chives and crème fraiche

Upstairs bar

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Steak sampler

Why does Yelp recommend reviews?

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175 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

allen s.

18 years ago

I have been a patron of Costa Brava for about 5 years now. I've invited friends, dates, family, etc over the years...I've literally spent $1000's in that place...the food is fabulous and so is the music and the staff is very friendly...I pretty much know every one that works there, just by sheer number of visits. I went into the pata negra store last Friday for the first time -the store next door owned by the same guy- and purchased $80 in cheeses and sausages. I was going over some bank charges last night and noticed that costa brava had CHARGED ME ALOT MORE THAN WHAT I HAD SIGNED ON MY CREDIT CARD SLIP...THEY DOUBLE CHARGED ME some cheeses and the guy at the counter...His name is Fernando...curly hair/dark skin ADDED FOR HIMSELF A 20% TIP WHICH I DID NOT AUTHORIZE (all he did was ring me up...why would I give him a 20% tip?). Anyway, I called pata negra this morning and explained what happened and THE OWNER JAVI OR JAVIER called me back absolutely livid accusing me of calling him a thief and telling me not to come back to his restaurant again. I had heard that the owner had a very violent temper several times but I had never dealt with him before...but boy, HE IS THE SCARIEST PERSON THAT'S EVER THREATENED ME...he was yelling down my throat insulting me threatening me...he even threatened my life and I called the police and filed a report...I was literally shaking in fear when I got off the phone with him...THERE WAS SO MUCH ANGER AND VIOLENCE IN HIS VOICE THAT IT LITERALLY PARALIZED ME...so much for 5 years of going to his restaurant and recommending it to friends and family...THE OWNER KNOWS WHO I AM BECAUSE I'VE BEEN THER SO MANY TIMES...I've never complained about anything, but I thought this Fernando guy adding 20% for a tip and double charging me some items was bogus and it was only about $35 and I thought a phone call would take care of it...but instead my life was threatened by the owner who swore we would hurt me if I ever came back to his restaurant. This guy acts more like a mafioso than a restaurant owner...Too bad, I really liked the place, but the guy is scarier than any mafia character I've seen in the movies...and I've seen them all. THE MORAL OF THE STORY: KEEP YOUR RECEIPTS! if you go to this place and COMPARE THEM TO YOUR BANK STATEMENT WHEN YOU GET IT..especially if you go to Pata Negra and get "served" by Fernando...if he did it to me, he's probably doing it to others and watch out for the owner Javi...tall guy with long hair and a goatee...he looks like the lead character in the movie 300 BUT ALOT SCARIER! The food is great and so is most of the staff, but I can't believe after so many years of coming to this place that I would get treated like this...THE OWNER JAVI SAID "YOU HAVE ABSOLUTELY NO FUCKING IDEA WHO YOU'RE DEALING WITH" AND THEN PROCEEDED TO THREATEN MY LIFE....I won't come anywhere near that place again...that guy scared the crap out of me!!! This last time I was there I noticed they got the channel 10 top award and they have all these "public vote" awards...I wonder if I'm the only one that's gotten shaked down like this...thank God I was not there in person to complain...by the way the owner threatened me on the phone, I feel they would have taken me out back and beaten the crap out of me had I complained there in person!!! read more

Sara H.

15 years ago

I lived in PB for about two years, and didn't notice this place until a friend pointed it out. I came here with once with my boyfriend, and once again with my heterosexual life partner. Both times were outstanding. The food and sangria were incredible- we got the patatas bravas, the garlic shrimp, and some type of lamb that I don't recall the name of. After living in Spain for a few months, I began to hate Spanish food and the terrible service that accompanies it. This place finally put a good light on the Spanish style dining experience that I grew to hate. The servers are all very friendly and fun, and both times I went I got the same jovial server with slight issues with the English language. I like to have servers give me their menu spiel, and sometimes just order for me based on my likes and their recommendations. Our language barrier proved to be a slight issue however, for after explaining my detest for dates and bacon, our waiter arrived with a big plate of bacon wrapped dates. I will never turn down food, and I was intrigued to find that the combination of two foods I don't like ended up being absolutely delightful. Everything else he brought out was amazing, and he did his best to cultivate our romantic date atmosphere by scolding us any time either of us picked up our cell phones to read a text message. The somewhat intimidating and ESL waiter ended up being one of the highlights of Costa Brava, and I will definitely ask for him next time. With a big side of bacon wrapped dates. read more

Jessica I.

15 years ago

Girls 20-35 yrs old beware of owners wife!!! I usually have a amazing experience at this restaurant until I encountered uptight wife/hostess few days ago. I arrived with two friends without a reservation and asked for a table for four. The hostess realized there were only three of us and said she could only seat parties that were present. So we agreed and took a table for 3. She then stated in a rude Inflection "even when your friend gets here, we can't add another chair." We ignored her bitchy demeanor and took our seat. We sat drank our sangria and had a few tapas until our other friend showed up. The waiter saw that my friend did not have a seat and offered to bring one over so she could join us. The hostess saw this and was not happy. She pulled the waiter aside and yelled at him for it. I noticed there were two open tables just next to us and asked if we could sit there so we could all sit together. Again the hostess did not approved. I tried to understand where she was coming from but while there was no one else waiting for a table all she could say was that " we need to leave these tables for other customers". Well last time I checked I was a paying customer!!! The only thing I could conclude is that she couldn't handle a group of cute girls in her restaurant?! There was no need for her behavior and was extremely surprised to hear that it was the owners wife. Anyway I'll be sure to never visit here again or ever recommend this place to anyone. Horrible customer service!! read more

Jay J.

Elite 23

145

132

505

2 years ago

Costa Brava has transported me straight to the heart of Spain with its divine Spanish cuisine and authentic ambiance. From the moment I stepped through the door, I felt like I was lost in the charming streets of Barcelona. The service at Costa Brava is unparalleled. The staff's warmth and attention to detail made our dining experience truly exceptional. They guided us through the menu with enthusiasm, recommending dishes that became instant favorites. Their knowledge of Spanish cuisine was impressive and added to the overall authenticity of the experience. Now, let's talk about the food! Every dish we tried was a masterpiece. From the savory paella bursting with flavor to the tapas that danced on our taste buds, each bite was a celebration of Spanish culinary heritage. The ingredients were fresh, the flavors bold, and the presentation exquisite. The ambiance of Costa Brava is enchanting. The décor, the music, and the lively chatter all contributed to the feeling of being transported to Spain. Whether you're dining with friends, family, or that special someone, Costa Brava's ambiance sets the perfect backdrop for unforgettable moments. In conclusion, if you're looking for an authentic taste of Spain accompanied by fabulous service and a vibe that sweeps you off your feet, look no further than Costa Brava. It's not just a restaurant; it's a culinary journey you won't soon forget. ¡Viva Costa Brava! read more

Sergio D.

187

7 months ago

This restaurant delivers an immersive cultural experience where food, wine, and music come together seamlessly. The ambience is warm and inviting, with thoughtfully curated music that enhances the overall dining experience without overpowering conversation. Service is attentive and well-timed, setting the tone for an enjoyable evening from start to finish. The appetizers are well executed and flavorful, providing an excellent introduction to the menu. The red sangria stands out--vibrant, balanced, and clearly crafted with care. For the main course, we ordered two paellas: seafood and mixed. Both showcased quality ingredients and traditional preparation, reinforcing the restaurant's commitment to authenticity. The wait, expected for dishes prepared from scratch, is pleasantly filled with appetizers, sangria, and live entertainment, making the pacing feel intentional rather than delayed. Unfortunately, we did not leave room for dessert--a testament to how satisfying the meal was. Parking is somewhat limited and remains the only minor inconvenience. Overall, this is a destination well suited for romantic evenings or group gatherings, offering a polished yet lively atmosphere and a memorable dining experience rooted in culture and craft. read more

Chun P.

Elite 26 All-Star

4860

2489

20466

11 years ago

$ $ $ $$$$$ $$$$$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $$$$$ $ $ $ $$$$ $$$$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $$$$$ $ $ $$$$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $$$$$ $ $ $ $ $ $$$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $$$$$ $$$$$ $ $ $8 Sangria Pitchers...YEEEESSSSSS!!!!!!!!!! $2-5 Tapas Galore: sausage sammies, deep fried anchovies, deep fried tuna pastries, olives, mushrooms, potatoes, croquettes, and more...so many to choose from! I took photos of the Happy Hour menu. Be careful though...the four of us still managed a bill of $127...SOAB!!! To be fair, a few drinks and food items we ordered were from the regular menu. Also, the hardworking, handsome, and friendly male staff admitted that the HH items are smaller than full versions. Honesty is appreciated! But 3-4 of these small tasty HH tapas items would be enough food to make a good meal. I'd love to come back and order strictly from the Happy Hour menu and stick with the $8 Sangria pitchers. read more

Amy H.

2 years ago

I posted a review here about the Costa Brava some days ago and I don't know whether it was deleted by the manager or maybe by Yelp. Either way, it disappeared and I feel the need to write again about it, because me and my friends were harassed by our server here. My friend Lu already wrote a review saying what happened here. Basically, our server made very inappropriate comments to us; he tried to give us his phone number several times; he insisted on coming to a bar later with us and he even touched me and another friend. Of course, I demanded him to stop touching me immediately and he smiled and told me: "Don't get mad, it's just a joke. Anyway, you Brazilians love to be touched" (I told him previously that I'm Brazilian). I couldn't believe what was happening. I cannot believe that this still happens to women in 2024!!! My friend did a quick research and he found pictures of this fu***** perv on Yelp. I've done another research and his name is ORLANDO. Women, please! Take a lot of precautions if you go to the Costa Brava!! There is a perv harasser among the crew and his name is Orlando! AVOID HIM! read more

Barbara J.

15 years ago

Without the address, you would most likely not realize this is a restaurant as the front is hidden by foliage. There's a Spanish deli next door which is a bit of a clue. The restaurant has inside and patio dinning, you might be allowed to smoke on the patio. We had been warmly welcomed, without a reservation and it was busy as they had flamenco dancing that evening. Seated right away on the patio which was best for us. Service was terrific, the waiter asked if we had Tapas before and explained portion sizes etc, we're conscious of how Tapas works but he also recommended the specials, 1 of which was Fillet Steak skewers, they were delicious and we're pleased we ordered them. We had around 5 dishes between two and it was a great portion of food. They also had bottles of Estralla, beer from Barcelona and the chefs were Spanish. We didn't find anything bad about Costa Brava at all, it had a fantastic mix of young and old prospects and also a relaxed buzz about the location. All in all, a truly good evening with great food and excellent beer. Highly recommend. read more

Jose P.

129

523

2 years ago

If you're looking to spice up your dining routine, this local Spanish spot is worth a visit. The service? Spot-on--friendly and efficient without the "am I invisible?" moments. Plenty of room here too, so you won't feel like you're bumping elbows with strangers while you savor your croquetas. Speaking of tapas, they're the real MVP--flavor-packed bites that make sharing actually feel like a good idea (though you might reconsider once you taste the gambas al ajillo). Now, the paella? Eh, let's just say it's not stealing the spotlight. It's good, not great--like the reliable friend you call when your plans fall through. But hey, it's nice they take reservations, so you won't end up waiting in some overcrowded corner clutching your sangria like it's your lifeline. It's definitely a solid spot to switch things up every now and then, and the relaxed yet lively vibe keeps it fun. If your taste buds are in a "let's go on vacation" mood but your wallet isn't, this place will do the trick. read more

Danica C.

3 years ago

Costa Brava has swiftly become my go-to tapas destination in Pacific Beach! I had the pleasure of visiting for the first time to celebrate a friend's birthday, and the experience was nothing short of enchanting. The ambiance transports you directly to Spain, making you feel as if you've stepped into a charming eatery on the cobblestone streets of Barcelona or Madrid. Though parking in PB can be challenging, the slight inconvenience is quickly forgotten once you're inside. The service was impeccable--attentive, friendly, and prompt, elevating our entire dining experience. The Sangria was a standout--refreshing, well-balanced, and absolutely delectable. While the Calamari wasn't as fresh as I'd hoped, it was a minor hiccup in an otherwise splendid meal. All in all, Costa Brava delivers an authentic Spanish experience right in PB. From the delightful atmosphere to the excellent service, it's a gastronomic journey I can't wait to embark on again! read more

Amber C.

391

3 years ago

Costa Brava is a wonderful Spanish restaurant located in San Diego, CA. The restaurant boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, with a menu that features a variety of delicious Spanish dishes. Matthew, the worlds best menu guide will help you through the menu and pace your table perfectly. For starters, I recommend the Gambas al Ajillo, which are succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic and olive oil. For the main course, the Paella is a must-try, with its perfectly cooked rice and flavorful combination of seafood and meats. Finally, for dessert, the Churros con Chocolate are an excellent choice, with their crispy exterior and gooey chocolate center. The cleanliness of the restaurant is noteworthy, with the tables and chairs looking immaculate. The service is excellent, with knowledgeable and attentive waitstaff that go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant dining experience. read more

Ashley M.

11 years ago

I have been to Spain many times and frankly, the food at Costa Brava has nothing to do with Spanish cuisine at all. I guess if you want to go drink wine, sangria, or just alcohol in general maybe it's a good deal, but the food is terrible. Anybody can cut some jamon and queso and serve it on a dish. Anybody can open a pack of red sausages and fry them, or open a can of olives with anchovies. Cooking, making food, is something else. I guess they think that because the owner and some of the staff are from Spain, and because sometimes they have flamenco dancers, they got it made. Excuse me, you have to know how to COOK too. I think they capitalize on the fact that most customers have never been to Spain, and that there really aren't good Spanish restaurants in the San Diego area. Very disappointing. Simply put. Will not go back and do not recommend it. read more

Peter M.

16 years ago

I was there with my wife and we had a blast. Even for a tuesday, it was pretty full inside. This is probably the best place in San Diego, but for sure the BEST in Pacific Beach. We had a bottle of red rioja wine that the knowledgeable waiter happily recommended after we told him what we usually like and drink. Beronia Gran Reserva 2001. The waiter mentioned that their wine selection features some very old bottles too and gave us a tour through their wine cellar after our dinner. I ate a Filet Mignon that has yet to find its match somewhere else. Best I ever ate. My wife had crab meat stuffed salmon. Ask for some jamon iberico as an appetizer. Out of this world. Too bad our waiter wasnt from Spain, otherwise you could have closed your eyes and be in Barcelona. ;-) Great food, great service! read more

Cristian H.

16 years ago

I love spanish food and lived in spain for a while. This place is as good as it gets for spanish food outside of Spain. There is a great outdoor seating area that makes you feel like you are on vacation. The Sangria (only red) is awesome and for sure the best I had in San Diego. The waiter was very attentive and fun and kept us entertained. We had a new Paella dish "Fideua" that is cooked with noodles instead of rice. Since I am a big pasta fan, this worked very well for me and my friends liked it too. comes with tons of seafood. Jamon Iberico (cured ham, like prosciutto) is the most amazing thing I ever ate. Well worth the price and with a cheese plate all you need to be in food heaven. They also serve warm bread with a dipping sauce to die for. read more

Justin M.

222

2 years ago

I recently had a wonderful dining experience at Costa Brava in San Diego. The service was outstanding--our server was attentive, helped us pick the perfect sangria and beer (including a non-alcoholic option), and even accommodated an outside birthday cake. The paella mixta was a standout, packed with mussels, clams, and shrimp, and perfect for sharing. The tapas, especially the rabbit and calamari, were delicious and full of flavor. We opted for outdoor seating, which was lively and enjoyable with a Spanish soccer game playing in the background. Costa Brava offers authentic Spanish cuisine in a warm and inviting setting. Whether you're enjoying tapas or a full meal, it's a great spot for a relaxed, flavorful experience. Highly recommend! read more

Dawn S.

149

14 years ago

This is my new favorite spot in San Diego!! It was my first time here and was so pleasantly surprised!! We started with a pitcher of yummy Sangria! There was a live band with flamenco dancers that were interactive with guests that kept us entertained while we waited for our table. Everyone here was so sweet, helpful and inviting!! I have never tasted such amazingly seasoned shrimp (Gambas Plancha). The Salmon Relleno was so tasty also and the bread came with a garlic infused whipped butter!! Whoa!! :) Ended up staying here a lot longer than expected because it was so hard to leave!! ;) I can't wait to take all my friends here for another great experience!! Thank You Costa Brava!! read more

J C.

12 years ago

I have walked by this restaurant many times, but it took out of town guests to finally get me patronize this place. I don't spend a lot of time in PB so needless to say, I was really surprised how great this restaurant is. First of all, Costa Brava is an awesome date restaurant. The outside patio is heated, quiet, intimate, and the music is awesome. Every table is set up with enough space between it so you are not on top of your neighbor.... and your conversations stay private. We ordered an array of tapas, wine, beer.....and flan for dessert. Everything was delicious! We did ask our waiter for some recommendations and he gave us good advice. I can't wait to go back! read more

Ellan S.

235

9 years ago

My husband and I just have a dinner here. They charge us 7 dollar for a tiny little bit salad. They forgot to put asparagus the salad should have come with. We also ordered One entree with said 25 dollar. Their menu is pretty tricky. On the last few wprds, it said minimum 2 servings. So in the end we paid for 50 dollar for some rice and a little bit seafood.( the dish is way salty) They didn't even take the feces out of the shrimp. The servers are very serious and don't smile or even look at us. Overall experience is "Food is not okay, service isn't okay, price is way too high. Tricky menu and nobody remind us we should pay twice. " read more

Noraay N.

131

6 years ago

Went here the first time with some friends . The food and atmosphere were great. The service from the staff was the best I have ever experienced friendly helpful and inviting. It is singular in its variety of dishes, generous quantity and happy atmosphere. Everything we tried was delicious and the wait staff was so helpful, authentic, and friendly. They had a selection of hard to find Spanish beers (Mahou, Alhambra) and traditional Spanish plates. The best was the jamon, a little pricey but very much worth it. Bien aprovecho! We will be coming back soon to try more of the tasty tapas they have one their menu. read more

Marta M.

13 years ago

Como española me parece un timo de sitio, se come mucho mejor en España y no es tan caro como en este sitio..nos costo la cena 60$ y no fue para tanto..poca comida y la sangria no estaba buena, no se si el dueño sera español o no pero se podría documentar un poco mas o esforzarse en hacer la comida que realmente comemos en el país...nuestra tortilla de patatas no lleva pimiento!!! Esperaba recordar los sabores de la comida mediterránea y me he quedado con las ganas... Y el camarero...le oí decir: Esta gente se lo come todo así que da igual lo que les pongas! No me parece justo! Una desilusión!! No volveremos! read more

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Costa Brava - tapas - Updated August 2026

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•$$$$

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