Mission Beach may be home to those looking for fun in the sun but this laid-back community also has some food spots to hit up. Tried-and-true breakfast spots and an old school steakhouse are among some of the best Mission Beach restaurants. 

Saska’s

Best Mission Beach restaurants: Saska's
Photo courtesy of Saska’s

Mission Beach’s original steakhouse has been around since 1951 and though renovated in 2015, it stays true to its roots by serving steakhouse classics. Dinner highlights include hand-cut steaks and prime rib but equally alluring are its shrimp cocktails, wedge salads, and Alaskan king crab legs.

Insider tip: There’s choice of valet or street parking.

  • 3768 Mission Blvd.
  • 858-488-7311
  • www.saskas.com

The Mission Cafe

Best Mission Beach restaurants: The Mission for breakfast
Photo credit: Darlene Horn

Originally a coffeehouse, this popular spot eventually became a full-fledged restaurant serving up Chino-Latino fare for breakfast and lunch.

Crowds line up early for their signature Mission French toast incorporating its fresh cinnamon bread but vegetarian and gluten-free fare is just as popular.

Insider tip: Go early to avoid waiting; the restaurant doesn’t accept reservations.

Miss B’s Coconut Club

Best Mission Beach Restaurants: Miss B's Coconut Club
Photo credit: Darlene Horn

You’ll feel the island vibes at this laid back restaurant specializing in island fare and creative Tiki cocktails.

Soft shell crab sliders and bacon-wrapped shrimp corn dogs will get your appetite going while Cubano sandwiches and jerk chicken will put an end to your hunger.

Insider tip: There are several Miss B’s Coconut Club cocktails designed for parties of three or more, like the Havana Good Time served in a copper flamingo.

Cannonball

Sushi at Cannonball, a best Mission Beach restaurant
Photo credit: Darlene Horn

Head to this rooftop restaurant in Belmont Park for unencumbered views of the beach while feasting on sushi.

Inventive rolls like the Sunset served with tomatillo ponzu incorporate Mexican flavors while the selection of nigiri and sashimi take more the traditional route. Non-seafood entrees include grilled skirt steak and a signature burger.

Insider tip: Most of the restaurant is open air and there are several fire pits spread throughout the space to keep the chill away at night.

Draft

Best Mission Beach restaurants: Draft salmon burger
Photo courtesy of Draft

Like the name implies, this boardwalk-adjacent spot specializes in beer and beer-appropriate grub. A rotating tap plus a selection of bottled brews ranging from lagers and pale ales to stouts and sours promise to keep your thirst at bay.

Even if beer isn’t your thing, the American comfort cuisine covering lunch, dinner and weekend brunch is just as diverse.

Insider tip: Multiple TVs spread throughout the space makes it a great spot to watch sports. And, the pistacio crusted salmon burger is the most popular menu item.

Dole Whip Truck

Best Mission Beach restaurants: Dole Whip Truck

While it’s certainly no full-service restaurant, Belmont Park’s Dole Whip truck is an area highlight. It’s one of the few places one can indulge in this frosty treat outside of a Disney park.

It’s located under the Jungle ropes near Tiki Golf and a refreshing treat on a warm beach day.

Insider tip: This Dole Whip tastes slightly different than the Disney version but it’s delicious.

Darlene Horn is a San Diego-based freelance writer and designer who has contributed to Zagat San Diego, BizBash, Mission Publishing Group, Nescafe, and Active.com. You can find her documenting her favorite food spots on Instagram as @DarleneEats.