THE 15 BEST Restaurants in Lakeside, CA - With Menus, Reviews, Photos - Updated July 2024 (2024)

Customers` Favorites

“Ottavio's Italian Restaurant is a gem in Lakeside, offering a fine dining experience with great food, outstanding service, and a quaint atmosphere. Friendly bartenders and waitresses greet every guest, ensuring a wonderful dining experience. The menu features remarkable dishes, including the popular baked rigatoni. With its comfortable yet fancy ambiance, Ottavio's is a highly recommended spot for a memorable meal.”

Customers` Favorites

“Cafe 67 is a local gem with a fun old-fashioned atmosphere and generous portions of quality food. The service is exceptional, with friendly and attentive staff like Gigi providing a great experience. The veggie omelette and eggs Benedict are highly recommended, although the hash browns could be better. The restaurant has a cute vintage vibe with vintage toys and posters, making it a great little stop for a delicious meal.”

Customers` Favorites

“Lakeside Pho & Grill is a family-run restaurant that offers authentic Vietnamese cuisine, including delicious Pho and vegetarian options. Customers praise the fresh, flavorful food, generous portions, and attentive service. It is widely regarded as the best Pho place in the area, with a consistently excellent dining experience.”

Customers` Favorites

“Eastbound Bar & Grill offers a friendly atmosphere with quick service and a huge selection of drinks. The burgers and fries are fantastic, providing great value for money. While the environment can get loud, those who enjoy a lively scene will love it. The staff is super nice and the food is delicious, making it a highly recommended spot for a meal out.”

Customers` Favorites

“Wings Mix is a popular Mexican food restaurant, known for its generous portions and delicious California burritos. The red hot sauce stands out for its spiciness. The staff is friendly and the restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with indoor seating. However, there have been some concerns about the behavior of one of the staff members. Despite this, the food quality remains high, making it a recommended spot for Mexican cuisine.”

Customers` Favorites

“Kunduz Kabob & Pizza offers traditional Afghan cuisine, known for its delicious and high-quality kabobs and Qabili. The restaurant has a pleasant atmosphere and provides excellent service, with staff like Abdullah and Esamat going above and beyond to ensure a great dining experience. The sheer yakh is a popular choice. Located a bit off the beaten path, customers find it worth the drive. Ideal for celebrations and family dinners.”

Customers` Favorites

“Giant Bambino's Pizza offers a large slice of pizza, earning it a 5-star rating from one customer. A different reviewer, a self-proclaimed pizza connoisseur from the East Coast, describes the pizza as a mix between Costco and Chuck E. Cheese – not bad, but not exceptional. The garlic bread was described as buttered toast. However, another customer raved about the "works" pizza, praising its thin crust and high-quality toppings. Overall, Giant Bambino's Pizza has mixed reviews, with some customers finding it satisfactory and others considering it an excellent pizza spot.”

Customers` Favorites

“Albert's Fresh Mexican Food in Lakeside is a favorite spot for many. The alexadilla, a California burrito wrapped in a quesadilla, stands out for its well-balanced fillings. The red and green hot sauces add extra flavor to the dishes. The staff is friendly and accommodating, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. The restaurant's ambiance is bustling but welcoming. Customers appreciate the variety of delicious plates and drinks, such as the Jamaica and whipped orange drink. While the taco bar may not be available early in the morning, Albert's remains a top choice for tasty Mexican cuisine.”

Customers` Favorites

“La Palapa Mexican Restaurant in Lakeside offers great, reasonably priced food with quick and friendly service. Known for their phenomenal consistency, delicious salsa, and incredible wet carne asada burrito, it is a cozy spot with top-notch service. Highly recommended for anyone looking for authentic Mexican cuisine, with convenient wheelchair accessibility.”

Customers` Favorites

“Sarais Taco Shop offers delicious and generously portioned Mexican cuisine, including big burritos and tasty chorizo burritos. The food is consistently excellent, with a skilled chef preparing the dishes. However, the restaurant's hours of operation can be inconsistent, and the service at the register is sometimes delayed. Overall, Sarais Taco Shop provides a satisfying dining experience with fair prices and generous portions.”

Customers` Favorites

“Los Rancheritos Mexican Food is a cash-only restaurant known for its excellent food and great service. The portions are generous, with the California burrito being particularly large. The menu offers a variety of options, including fish tacos, which are a popular choice. However, the Chile Verde and carnitas have received mixed reviews, with some customers praising the flavors and others finding the meat dry. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible, with handicapped parking and an accessible entrance. The seating could be more comfortable, but the restaurant offers thoughtful touches such as electric outlets at tables for charging phones. The staff is polite, although they could smile more. The restaurant has clean bathrooms, although the sink could be cleaner.”

Customers` Favorites

“Gaetano's Pizza Ristorante Lakeside offers a variety of appetizers like Maria's salad and bruschetta. The restaurant has a nice family atmosphere, with the best sausage pasta. Customer service is excellent, with a history of the restaurant shared by the founder's son. Pizzas are authentic Italian but can be pricey. Vegetarian options include pizza and pasta, and there is ample parking and wheelchair accessibility. It's a popular spot for families to gather and enjoy delicious pizza and salads.”

Customers` Favorites

“Boll Weevil is a family-friendly restaurant known for its tasty food and warm service. The "All You Can Eat Fish" on Thursdays is a popular choice, and their Fried Shrimp lunch special is also a favorite. The restaurant has an old-school western feel and serves big, perfectly cooked burgers with crispy fries and onion rings. They also offer a continental breakfast for early morning meetings. The owner and staff are friendly and make it a great place for both individuals and families.”

Customers` Favorites

“Cali Stack Burgers & Grill is a restaurant known for its delicious food and wonderful, accommodating staff. The spacious and clean environment adds to the overall positive dining experience. One standout dish is the Mushroom Philly, which is described as amazingly delicious and flavorful. The Lobster Bisque, offered as the soup of the day, also received high praise for its creamy and delicious taste. Despite a mix-up with a customized burger order through an online delivery service, the staff was praised for their kindness and professionalism in resolving the issue. Corrin, one of the employees, was specifically commended for her wonderful personality and helpful attitude.”

Customers` Favorites

“Giant Pizza King in Lakeside is known for its delicious pizza, appreciated by picky eaters and praised for its perfect cheese to topping ratio and crispy-yet-soft crust. The staff is commended for their kindness and politeness. The antipasto salad is also highly recommended. This restaurant has been a family favorite since 2000 and is considered a special place for many.”

Customers` Favorites

“Caffeine Queens is a go-to spot for those needing a caffeine boost in Lakeside. Their "off with your heads" coconut iced coffee is a must-try, perfect for teachers in the area. The convenient drive-through, great prices, and friendly service make it a favorite. While some find their drinks too sweet, like the iced chai vanilla lavender latte and CQ Acai bowl, others enjoy the sugary treats. The customer service is top-notch, with helpful recommendations and a welcoming atmosphere. The menu is extensive, offering something for everyone. Not to mention, the shaken espresso *cinnamon bun is highly recommended, frothy, nutty, and not too sweet. If you have a strong sweet tooth, this place is worth checking out for a delightful caffeine fix.”

Customers` Favorites

“The reason for my five stars for your barn is because when I first walked in I was greeted very friendly like and I was immediately given advice and was told about the prices and the flavors and everything else the young lady there I did not get her name but she was very sweet very kind very helpful great customer service the flavors were very good I did tip her because of her customer service and her politeness the store was clean organized and it was my first time there and I can honestly say that I will continue to go but my coworkers have been there for my other clients for many years but it was my first time and I liked it I got strawberry with chocolate yogurt frozen yogurt that is no toppings and my client got chocolate and my other client got peanut butter and those are their favorite all I can say is a yogurt is very pleasing and I will go again in the near future but the girl that is a cashier there I went like around I'd say one or 12:00 and the young lady there should get a raise for her politeness that's all”

“Little Miss Brewing Lakeside, with an Australian theme, offers a pleasant environment and friendly service, making it a potential new favorite spot for visitors. The beer selection is enjoyable, and customer service is commendable, although it's worth noting that hours may differ from the posted schedule, with the location closing earlier than stated.”

Customers` Favorites

“Jersey Mike's Subs is the go-to place for freshly made, healthy sandwiches. The staff is friendly, upbeat, and provides amazing service with a smile. Despite being busy, the team works together efficiently. The manager even went above and beyond to make customers feel special. A must-try is the mouth-watering sandwich, chips, soda, and chocolate chip cookie. With plenty of parking available, you can enjoy your meal at Lindo Lake for a complete day in paradise. Don't forget to try a sub Mike's way, recommended by a happy customer!”

“Yes I do! Very nice and the best of the best coffee, around the world!!!Starbucks CoffeeFrom: San Diego Ca.Appreciated your attentionBoaventura OavaldoLakeside: Starbucks Coffee!”

“Very polite and helpful. Large order for church Memorial Day picnic. Old fashioned ice cream cups complete with the wooden spoon. Remember the taste of the wooden spoon? Big hit with all the kids. Feed a group of 250”

Customers` Favorites

“Arby's offers a variety of food options, with some customers mentioning the burgers being a bit pricey compared to other fast-food chains. Despite some mishaps with orders, the service is generally okay, and one customer appreciated the extra fries given to them. Another customer is grateful for having a nearby Arby's location, noting the cleanliness and helpful staff. A different visitor to the Santee location found the food amazing, service excellent, and the restaurant very clean. They warn that Arby's may not be suitable for strict diets, but there are vegetarian options available, and the restaurant is kid-friendly with ample parking and wheelchair accessibility.”

“best menudo on the planet”

“Pete’s doesn’t disappoint. Great fast service, incredible flavor and cheap prices for the quality you get. Also, fishing tip… I ordered too much food and we had about half a coney dog left from my nephew (not sure how with how great they tasted but we ate too much) we used it for bait and instantly got hit when the whole group was skunked all day. Foodie approved, fish certified with regret after eating the deliciousness and being hooked.”

“Mariscos El Tiburon Food Truck is a hidden gem serving exceptional Mexican cuisine. The staff provides great service, and the food is flavorful and delicious. The carne asada and adobada are highly recommended, and the fish tacos are a must-try, with the option to add extra tartar sauce. The grilled shrimp burritos are also a standout, with customers raving about their size and flavor, even when eaten cold the next day. Don't forget to try the chipotle mayo and green sauce, and be sure to explore the adjacent Hispanic market for fresh tortillas and tortilla chips. Despite the simple parking lot ambiance, this food truck is a regular stop for many, and its food is sure to impress.”

Customers` Favorites

“Rosarito's Mexican Food #2 is a popular spot for delicious Mexican cuisine. The menu is extensive, offering a range of options, including a chicken taco combination plate with grilled or shredded chicken. The food is tasty, and the portion sizes are generous without sacrificing quality. The restaurant is clean, with easy parking and moderate prices. Service is quick, even on weekends. The salsas are a highlight, with a slight kick but not too spicy. Overall, Rosarito's is a solid Mexican spot with good prices, making it a great choice for a meal out.”

“Old Fashioned Creamery at Barona offers good quality ice cream and a pleasant dining experience. The staff, particularly Felicia, provides excellent customer service with a smile, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere. However, some customers have experienced inconsistent service from other staff members. The restaurant's ambiance is enjoyable, with a lake view, and the food quality is commendable, as seen in their Cobb Salad and Philly Cheesesteak with garlic fries.”

Customers` Favorites

“Roberto's Taco Shop Lakeside is a popular spot for delicious Mexican food. Their menu offerings, such as the Carnitas burrito, bean and cheese burrito, and hard shell beef taco, are all well-received by customers. The Surf and Turf burrito is a standout favorite, with its combination of flavors and generous portions. The service is exceptional, with friendly and helpful staff, including a sweet and helpful lady who manages the drive-through line. The food is always fresh and hot, and the restaurant is known for its fast service and reasonable prices. Overall, Roberto's Taco Shop Lakeside is a reliable choice for satisfying Mexican food cravings.”

“Barona Oaks Steakhouse offers a wonderful dining experience with great service. The menu features delicious options like rib eye, prime rib steak, lobster, and shrimp wrapped in bacon. The restaurant boasts a nice ambience with live piano playing and an extensive wine list. Guests can enjoy comp meals or discounts with their club cards.”

“Ho Wan Noodle Shop at Barona Casino offers a variety of delicious dishes with generous portions. The staff is friendly and welcoming, despite being busy. The Kung Pao Shrimp and BBQ Pork Soup Noodle are highly recommended choices. The food is served quickly, even during peak hours, making it a convenient option for a satisfying meal. While some dishes may lean towards the salty side, the overall experience is enjoyable and worth a return visit to try out other items on the menu. Don't miss out on this yummy spot with good food offerings and ample servings.”

Customers` Favorites

“Lakeside Cafe & Bakery offers a pleasant dining experience with friendly and attentive service. The menu features classic dishes, including a popular chicken fried option, though some customers note a slight flour taste. The cafe caters to seniors with a large dedicated menu. Overall, it provides a reliable, satisfying dining option.”

Customers` Favorites

“Sombrero Mexican Food offers excellent food and service, with a notable mention of the Carne asada fries, which are described as the best ever. The drive-thru service is quick and friendly, with polite staff at the window. While the food may not be perfect for those seeking a gourmet experience, it is a reliable option for those in a hurry. The restaurant serves hot breakfast quickly and has a clean atmosphere. Vegetarian options are available, with fresh ingredients and combinations to explore.”

Customers` Favorites

“Sage Cafe is a restaurant overlooking a pond, known for its fabulous food and friendly staff. The prime rib is a popular choice, although there have been issues with it being overcooked and served with a well-done ribeye instead of medium rare. The chicken and waffles are just okay, and the calamari and mozzarella sticks are served in skimpy portions. The service can be slow due to a lack of helpers, causing stress for the staff.”

Customers` Favorites

“Greek Chicken is a restaurant known for its delicious salads and tasty Gyro sandwiches. The fried zucchini, served with ranch, is a popular menu item and is highly recommended. The service is quick, usually taking just a few minutes to get your order. Although there may be a sewer smell outside at times, the restaurant's east county location is the only one with outdoor seating, making it a nice spot to enjoy a meal on sunny days. However, if you're in a rush, it's worth noting that drive-thru orders can take up to 20 minutes.”

Customers` Favorites

“Dairy Queen is an outdoor eatery with no indoor seating. While the surrounding area has some vagrants, customers can take their purchases to their cars. Orders may be delayed, and staff may seem unhappy to be interrupted. However, the custom Blizzard cake is a highlight, with one employee being kind and efficient on the phone. The cake was ready promptly, and the employees are praised for their excellent service. The cotton candy Blizzards are a sweet treat.”