The Grant Grill image

The Grant Grill

Restaurant Bar Lounge Californian restaurant

The U.S. Grant Hotel's storied eatery boasts opulent decor & seasonal Californian fare with a twist. People often mention service, Grant, Grill, restaurant, great, good, dining, experience, breakfast, menu,


Address

326 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101

Website

www.grantgrill.com

Contact

(619) 744-2077

Price rating

$$$ $

Rating on Google Maps

4.50 (284 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Sunday: 7 AM to 2 PM, 5:30 to 9 PM
  • Monday: 7 to 11 AM, 11:30 AM to 2 PM, 5:30 to 9 PM
  • Tuesday: 7 to 11 AM, 11:30 AM to 2 PM, 5:30 to 9 PM
  • Wednesday: 7 to 11 AM, 11:30 AM to 2 PM, 5:30 to 9 PM
  • Thursday: 7 to 11 AM, 11:30 AM to 2 PM, 5:30 to 9 PM
  • Friday: 7 to 11 AM, 11:30 AM to 2 PM, 5:30 to 9 PM
  • Saturday: 7 AM to 2 PM, 5:30 to 9 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: service (29) Grant (29) Grill (22) restaurant (17) great (16) good (13) dining (10) experience (10) breakfast (10) menu (9)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Mary B. 2 years ago on Google
    This place hits it out of the park. Outstanding white glove service. Elegant atmosphere. And the food is phenomenal with a perfect balance of flavor, texture and presentation. Truly a dining experience to remember.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jonathan Perry (. 1 year ago on Google
    We had a wonderful time celebrating my wife's birthday and a delicious relaxed late breakfast the following monring. We were  honored with a table visit from the amazing Chef Mark. Chef Mark's menu and food at the Grant Grill are definitely Michelin level and 2~3 star worthy. High quality food, wonderful preparation and presentation with nice sized portions. Chefs Mark's signature breakfast potatoes Wow! So simply, but so wow.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 msbusyblonde 11 months ago on Google • 393 reviews
    The history of the hotel and restaurant is fascinating. It was built by President Ulysses S Grant's son in 1910. The Grant Grill restaurant became known as a dining spot for businessmen and politicians. So much so that in the 50s, women weren't allowed in until 3pm. In 1969 a group of women staged a sit-in as they dined on turtle soup. (So naturally I had to try their legendary mock turtle soup). The truffle gnocchi was delicious but the complimentary focaccia loaf was amazing
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Enakshi C. 1 year ago on Google • 143 reviews
    Amazing food. Amazing service. Really enjoyed the Avocado toast and my husband recommends the Quiche. Everything was very fresh and very well made. Highly recommended place. A little expensive but it’s worth the price. It’s situated inside the US Grant Hotel which is a beautiful hotel.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Jr C. 4 years ago on Google
    Good breakfasts, Dinner Steak can be improved
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 TJ C. 4 years ago on Google
    Grant Grill Lounge is the house restaurant at the beautiful US Grant Hotel. We enjoyed lunch here on our first afternoon in town. The cocktail list was inventive and the surroundings beautiful. The service was good except the time it took to receive our drinks was over 10 minutes after ordering. The bacon cheeseburger was great and was highlighted by the superbly smoked bacon. The tuna melt was an excellent rendition of a classic. The truffle Parmesan fries were the highlight for both of us. Recommend for a lunch stop especially if staying at the hotel.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jay K. 5 years ago on Google
    Grant Grill is one of San Diego's oldest restaurants, and its mighty presence downtown almost redeems the demented barbarity of the dining scene of the Gaslamp Quarter. Although "America's Finest City" is generally apathetic to fine dining, I've come to appreciate how Grant Grill keeps dauntlessly pushing on while not changing very much about itself. The "must-order" item? Definitely the "Mock Turtle Soup," which has been on Grant Grill's menu since they opened in 1951 and features a combination of bits of beef short rib and beef tongue to simulate diced turtle meat, controversial in California even during the days that "Turtle Soup" was offered by Campbell's in grocery aisles alongside "Chicken Noodle" and "Cream of Mushroom." A toper's amount of dry sherry is poured tableside by the waiter into a spicy brown broth consisting of tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, the result of which is a silky and punchy bowl of soup that risks creating impossible expectations for the rest of the meal. Earlier this year, my wife and I were fortunate enough to dine at Grant Grill on an evening that offered a special 5-course tasting menu where every dish (including dessert) consisted of either Soft Shell Crab or Jamón Ibérico, or both. If Chef Mark Kropczynski ever decides to do this again, I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to experience his creativity unleashed. The highlight dish in that series was his "Chuletero Iberico," where crispy soft-shell crab paella "cakes" and juicy Ibérico loin shared the plate with a romesco sauce and squash blossoms. I ate well in 2018, and this was one of the best plates of food I had all year. Aside from the inventive options that are usually offered for more adventurous diners, Grant Grill nails the de rigueur upmarket dishes such as Seared Sea Scallops, Grilled Octopus, Chilean Sea Bass, and Dry-Aged USDA Prime Ribeyes, and that's perhaps why my wife and I frequent this restaurant: it's a fantastic place for a pro dinner, with a professional wait-staff, refreshing classic cocktails, and luxuriously decorated and furnished in a legitimately old-school way that eludes any of the other fine dining options that exist in this region.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Elaine L. 11 months ago on Google
    Went out with friends - impeccable service; they were good at making accommodations on dietary restrictions, and served a fruit platter for us as a dessert even though it wasn’t on the menu. Live music as well. Wonderful classy experience!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vinh D. 7 months ago on Google
    I had breakfast several times during my stay and it was a pleasure to dine here. I was frequently helped by Allyson, Enrique and Jose and they made every morning great. The food was incredible and the portions are definitely shareable. Don't miss the smoked salmon bagel (half is pictured) and the beef cheek egg sandwich!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 silken f. 4 months ago on Google • 10 reviews
    i had a wonderful dinner with chris and sarah as my servers. i also learned that prior to 1971, women were not allowed to dine here unless accompanied by a man! it was interesting history and i happen to be a woman dining alone.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Jay F. 2 years ago on Google
    Good breakfast if staying at the hotel. Yops service and setting. Focused on customers. Love that. Food was good, but basic breakfast w eggs and bacon is $28, seemed high. Good burger done right. Nice setting too.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Paul R. 1 year ago on Google
    We enjoyed our breakfast at the Grant Grill which is located in the US Grant hotel. Super friendly servers in a historic setting. Good fried eggs, bacon and the best crispy potatoes.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Hagan D. 5 months ago on Google • 354 reviews
    Focaccia Bread, Smoked Spanish Octopus, Seared Scallops, Smoked Salmon Bagel, The Grant Breakfast!!!

  • 4/5 Vic 2 months ago on Google • 258 reviews New
    Amazing atmosphere and exceptional service. Overall the food was a 3.5/5. Worth the experience for a special night but food was a bit above average. Valentine’s Day 2024 8/10 Amuse Panko Fried Local Lobster, Braised Fennel, Pastis Aioli ** 7/10 Winter Truffle Risotto, Sprouting Cauliflower, Chicory, Moliterno Cheese *** 7/10 Creamy French Onion Soup “EnCroute” Black Pepper Puff Pastry ***** 8/10 Shared Warm Salad of Seared Sea Scallop and Tuna, Foraged Mushrooms, Hearts of Palm, Winter Greens, Smoked Bacon Vinaigrette **** 7/10 Colorado Lamb Chops, Tart Cherry Mostarda, Cavatelli, Baby Purple Artichokes ***** 9/10 “On Wednesdays We Eat Sundaes” Deconstructed Ice cream Sundae for two Vanilla, Chocolate, & Salted Caramel Ice Cream, Espresso Chocolate and Dark Cherry Sauce House made Pizzelle Cookies & Marshmallows

  • 4/5 Karen V. 3 months ago on Google • 243 reviews New
    Arrived early for our reservation, sitting at the bar for a pre-dinner drink. The bartender was friendly and provided our drinks with a smile. We both took notice of the beautiful decor, surroundings and atmosphere. The hostess took us to our table promptly at our reservation time. We were somewhat surprised with the limited items that were available. Overall, the food was tasty. The only complaint I had was with the waiter. Had to get his attention a couple of times regarding a couple of items by waving him to our table. Have already recommended the restaurant to friends.

  • 4/5 Ravisara L. 4 months ago on Google • 236 reviews
    The restaurant is located inside the historical hotel. We tried cocktail in the lounge, it was very good. I would recommend you to try their Smashing Pumpkin signature cocktail. For breakfast, We had to wait to dine in even though we were hotel guests and there was space available. The service was quite slow. Bad coffee. However, the potatoes side was delicious. They were very crispy.

  • 5/5 N A. 1 month ago on Google • 11 reviews New
    Amazing food, service, and atmosphere. Live Jazz band was playing, and the space the restaurant in is gorgeous. If you want old-school luxury, this is the place to go.

  • 4/5 Hoang C. 4 years ago on Google
    We went for brunch. It was a raining day so the place is empty. The customer service is great. The food is good. The price is not too pricey. It is located inside the hotel. They do not serve freshly squeeze juice. It has a full bar.

  • 5/5 David S. 4 years ago on Google
    Had a fantastic experience in this spot with my son. The food comes out fast and the service is just good. Prices are fair.

  • 5/5 Caril V. 4 years ago on Google
    Food is great, service best in San Diego, cocktails world class! Don't let the swanky interior fool you, there are great deals to be had here! The tasting menu with wine pairings is a steal!

  • 4/5 Cindy H. 4 years ago on Google
    Grant Grill Lounge recommend this spot! They have a wonderful ambience, the food is excellent and fresh and the Grant Grill Lounge is knowledgeable and super friendly. Love this place and will definitely be back!

  • 5/5 Bhashini W. 4 years ago on Google
    Great venue to host a party! The staff is awesome! The food was delicious.

  • 2/5 Manuel B. 4 years ago on Google
    Dinner was okay, but the steak and eggs benedict was horrible. The "steak" tasted like it was very old and wasn't even steak

  • 5/5 Melanie C. 4 years ago on Google
    i see why this place has a lot of good reviews.

  • 5/5 keith n. 4 years ago on Google
    Go there for the Halloween special cocktail....BOOM

  • 5/5 James C. 2 years ago on Google
    So happy we discovered this gem. Wow! The executive chef and team know how to source the best products and turn them into a masterpiece. The wait staff is super attentive. I had a loin of lamb and my wife had the scallops. Simply incredible and would take too long to describe how its presented and how all the flavors complimented each other. We will come back often!!

  • 5/5 Lizette A. 1 year ago on Google
    Grant Grill did not disappoint. It was exactly what I expected having visited the restaurant years ago. For this occasion I was looking for a restaurant with traditional american dishes, a mature ambience, hotel-elegant yet approachable, and great service. They delivered across all, but I must say that the highlight was their service. They were very friendly, attentive, and professional. When it comes to their menu, a highlight was the grilled octopus escabeche. It was one of the best octopus preparations I've had in a while. I love that they still have mock turtle soup (delicious), and the ribeye was cooked perfectly (I prefer it rare). My guests were just as happy with their dishes. We also loved the bar, the music and ambience of the restaurant. I recommend taking advantage of their valet parking (fourth avenue entrance). 5 stars when compared to similar restaurants and on how well it delivers its intended experience.

  • 4/5 Crystal L. 4 years ago on Google
    Came for a business lunch with a client and a colleague. It's ideal for this type of meeting as it's quiet, tables and booths are nice and roomy so you can actually take some notes - and on the day I was there... it was practically empty, so you can have an actual conversation at a normal volume and not worry about being overheard or not heard at all. As a feminist, the history of Grant Grill is particularly interesting to me... Summarized from their website: "In the 1950s and '60s, the Grant Grill was well regarded as the place to power lunch. Lawyers, banker and newspaper editors frequented the room, which was designated "men only" until 3:00 PM. In 1969, this strict policy finally changed when a group of local female attorneys staged a 'sit-in.' Waving a New York gender discrimination case in hand, the women were seated at a table and proceeded to return several times over the span of a year until the policy was finally removed. Today, the "Grant Grill Invasion" as it has been called, is still applauded as a turning point in San Diego's history, and a brass plaque commemorating their feat is on display outside the Grant Grill's entry." I can attest that there is, in fact, a plaque. For lunch, we started with the bruschetta. It's fine. They need more choices among apps. In general, I thought the lunch menu didn't have a lot of options and I ended up with a Cobb Salad - which is not something I usually order. Also at our table - a good looking burger and the interesting sounding (but messy looking) butternut squash sandwich. The food was all pretty good, I just didn't feel there were that many appealing options. Service is solicitous. Almost too much. Our server persisted in saying the name of the reservation holder, as in: "Are you ready to order Mr. XXX" or "Will there be anything else or just the check Mr. XXX?". It became a little much. But great service nonetheless. They validate parking if you come for lunch. It's worth it for the sense of history and feeling like you're in a rarified gentlemen's club that has been crashed once and for all by the ladies.

  • 5/5 Ayush G. 2 years ago on Google
    Very high quality, well prepared, good tasting food

  • 5/5 Ryan G. 6 months ago on Google
    We had a great wedding anniversary dinner here a couple of weeks ago. Our server, Reuben, was friendly and welcoming, with great recommendations. He has worked there for something like 30 years and shared interesting stories about the history of the restaurant and its patrons. We will be back!

  • 5/5 Dr. Rosie Ann R. 1 year ago on Google
    I don’t think any food I have eaten can top the food here!!! The servers are excellent. Honestly, the entire staff is great! I have absolutely no complaints and was such a wonderful experience each day! Highly recommend dining here for breakfast, lunch, and/or dinner. Follow me on IG @ dr.riley15_

  • 5/5 OhSheCameToEat 1 year ago on Google
    Do not skip out on dining in this hotel restaurant. I think people tend to overlook them and you would be doing yourself a disservice if you didn’t dine here at least once during your stay or during your time living/visiting the area in general. I ate here every morning during my 1 week stay at the US Grant. I only took these pictures of two because the other mornings I went tech free. The crab quiche was hands down one of the best things I have ever eaten….in my life. I still think about it from time to time like a long lost love and have even tried to replicate it….not even close lol. It’s that good. And if you want decadence go with the smoked salmon bagel with crispy salmon skin and salmon caviar. I mean…come on…what’s not to love here. Moral of the story is simple…eat at the Grant Grill.

  • 5/5 Dan H. 1 year ago on Google
    Our visit here was one of the best restaurant experiences we've ever had, certainly the best since covid. The menu was inventive and varied and the resulting meal was delicious and satisfying. The service was attentive, friendly and professional. Looking forward to returning!

  • 5/5 Gal J. 2 years ago on Google
    We absolutely loved The Grant Grill! The staff welcomed us with open arms and took care of our every need. Jose was our happy helpful server and anticipated our every need. We were honored to meet Chef Phil Hoffer and he even created a special soup for my husband when we told him we were coming back the very next night. Highly recommend!

  • 5/5 C B. 3 years ago on Google
    Service is always timely even when they have a full house. The service was friendly and observant. The prices are fair for the quality of food.

  • 5/5 E L. 3 years ago on Google
    Great food with quality ingredients. The place has a cool feel to it. Not close to my job, I wish it was.

  • 5/5 Steve22 C. 3 years ago on Google
    Good place to relax and unwind. Nothing but great experiences here. The bill won't break you.

  • 5/5 Violet B. 3 years ago on Google
    service is awesome even when they are busy. had a friend come into town and asked me to take him here again. prices are appropriate.

  • 5/5 ethan b. 3 years ago on Google
    two thumbs up for this place. looking forward to going back again. this place has many great reviews for a reason.

  • 5/5 Marcella J. 4 years ago on Google
    Excellent bar, excellent Manhattan. Excellent service both at the bar and at our dining table. Outstanding food...scallop entree had five wonderful flavors that all complimented each other. We have lived in San Diego for over 50 years and this was the first time we tried the Grant Grill before a performance at the Civic Theater. I honestly enjoyed the experience at Grant Grill more than the performance! Outstanding dining experience.

  • 5/5 A F. 3 years ago on Google
    Visited about four, it was not full. The staff was very helpful and welcoming. Food is like a restaurant in Louisville I liked.

  • 5/5 patrick w. 3 years ago on Google
    Honestly my favorite evening place. Quick, helpful, and friendly service. Bring your hunger - portions are filling.

  • 5/5 Kinsley C. 3 years ago on Google
    service is always prompt even when they have a full house. service is typically great. the bill was good for what you get.

  • 4/5 marie r. 3 years ago on Google
    It was so appetizing. The service here is great. Prices are appropriate for the quality.

  • 5/5 annette p. 3 years ago on Google
    Cool location to meet with coworkers. Definitely worth going back to.

  • 5/5 Raymond S. 3 years ago on Google
    I love this place so much. The staff was very sociable and kind. Prices are reasonable.

  • 5/5 Layla P. 3 years ago on Google
    The food from this restaurant is incredible, and if we had stayed for longer, we would have made a repeat visit. The wine was also to die for, and the staff in the restaurant were welcoming, courteous, and attentive to our needs. The service was outstanding! I will go back whenever I am in this part of the city!

  • 5/5 Barbara21 G. 3 years ago on Google
    Visited on a Thursday. Prices that are reasonable.

  • 5/5 Rodney W. 3 years ago on Google
    I like it here, excellent food & service. Service is consistently good. Feeling here is similar to a cafe in San Jose I liked.

  • 5/5 Sheena B. 3 years ago on Google
    Visited on Sat I believe. There was fast and courteous service.

  • 5/5 Emiliano R. 3 years ago on Google
    Just when I thought the Grant Grill couldn't further exceed expectations, it did. Chef de Cuisine, John Duran, has not only improved on traditional menu items, but he has introduced a new level of exciting, innovative dishes that are magnificently presented and perfectly prepared. Of particular note, his Spanish Octopus with sauce romesco, salsa verde, and chorizo brown butter is sensational.

  • 5/5 Marcus H. 3 years ago on Google
    Good food at a fair price.

  • 5/5 Jose L. 3 years ago on Google
    The best place in downtown for a power lunch. If you need to be out and back in court or you want to stay and celebrate. The dry aged burger is out of this world also I would try the lobster salad.

  • 4/5 Brenda P. 3 years ago on Google
    Great taco place not only for the area but also for LA city. I love their tacos and tortas. Excellent customer service and nice, hardworking owners. Thanks

  • 5/5 Bethany D. 3 years ago on Google
    Do yourself a favor and try this place.

  • 5/5 Tammy B. 3 years ago on Google
    Food was so tasty. Staff treated us so nice.

  • 4/5 Jack R. 3 years ago on Google
    honestly my favorite evening place. next time i'll be back with my coworkers.

  • 5/5 D C. 3 years ago on Google
    Got there about two, it was not packed. The service was very welcoming and sociable.

  • 5/5 Irene M. 3 years ago on Google
    Very appetizing. The staff was friendly and observant. Not so close to my office, unfortunately.

  • 5/5 Jodi C. 3 years ago on Google
    I can say this place does it for me. Service treated us so kindly.

  • 4/5 Cesar S. 3 years ago on Google
    Two thumbs up for this place. Will surely make a return trip.

  • 5/5 Spencer R. 3 years ago on Google
    A preferred evening place. This place has a great design.

  • 5/5 Karina L. 3 years ago on Google
    Do yourself a favor and give this place a try. I'll return with my relatives. Prices were decent.

  • 4/5 jhony s. 3 years ago on Google
    Stepping up the stairs and entering, this place was mesmerizing! Instead of Grant Grill Lounge I feel like they should have named it Grant Grill Lounge!

  • 5/5 Patrick G. 4 years ago on Google
    We had an excellent in this place. We enjoyed the nice environment and the food. The waiters are super personal. I am content we ultimately managed to visit this restaurant.

  • 5/5 Skyler P. 4 years ago on Google
    We enjoyed our best breakfast of the decade at the Grant Grill. My father used to bring me and my siblings here in the sixties and this place has been through a few transformations since then. It has somehow settled into perfection. Our experience was sophisticated but not stuffy. The food was perfect, old school and updated offerings. I loved the avocado Benedict, but the potatoes were too much. My friend ate and loved them. SaId they were the best breakfast potatoes he ever had. The service was top notch. I enjoyed the business atmosphere mixed with tourists. Fabulous food, wonderful service,and some great nostalgia. Highly recommend this place.


Call (619) 744-2077 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Food
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Food at bar
    • ✓️ Hard liquor
    • ✓️ Happy hour food
    • ✓️ Happy hour drinks
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Seating
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✗ Delivery

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