Coasterra

Score 85/100 · Order: Ceviche, margarita, skyline view · $22–38

Coasterra's waterfront patio faces the downtown skyline directly, and dogs are welcome on the outdoor deck. The modern Mexican menu is priced for the view, but there is no better dog-friendly sunset table in the county.

Local tip: Book for sunset — the downtown view across the bay is the reason to come.

Score 88/100 · Order: Ceviche and the carne asada · $35–60

Coasterra's modern Mexican menu is solid and the Harbor Island location gives you the full downtown skyline across the water. It's a special-occasion room that's easier to book than the La Jolla coast.

Local tip: Request a patio table facing the city and arrive 45 minutes before sunset.

Score 85/100 · Order: Margaritas, ceviche · $9–16

Coasterra's happy hour buys you the best downtown skyline view in San Diego at a fraction of the dinner check. Food is solid rather than exceptional; the view and the margaritas carry it.

Local tip: Ask for a patio table facing downtown — inside loses the entire point.

Score 84/100 · Order: Guacamole, tacos, and skyline views · $20–40

Upscale Mexican with big windows, water views, and enough space that a family does not feel out of place. Pricey, but the view is the memory.

Local tip: Ask for a patio table facing the skyline when you book.