As a personal dream of partners Chef Itze Behar and Architect John Welsh, Black Radish was conceived to bring our love for New York’s intimate fine dining yet casual restaurant scene to North Park, San Diego. Serving a seasonally rotating menu of California Cuisine inspired by Local ingredients and French technique.
Paul F
Unacceptably slow kitchen (two-star deduction). We ordered the prefixe four-course (promptly and all of our order was put in at the beginning), and we were there two hours forty minutes from start to getting our bill at the end. Many courses had 30-minute waits. I can’t overlook that when our party size was two. Food was mostly good, though there were some miscues here and there on temper, salt, and sauces (please note it is small plates, which I knew going in, however). Having eaten all over the world and followed Tom Sietsema for years, I believe that at this price point, the kitchen needs to get food out in a timely manner, no excuses.
… moreCtgb2
I had dinner at Black Radish and the experience felt like a hidden fine-dining gem in San Diego. The dishes were beautifully presented and packed with flavor, especially the seasonal menu. The atmosphere was cozy and intimate, perfect for a date night or special dinner. Great service and a thoughtful wine selection made the evening even better.
… moreAlice Renee Pierceall
First time there. Just passed it on the way home a few time’s and wanted to check it out because it looked like a cool place. The service was absolutely excellent. The Bartender is very friendly and talented. My cocktail was very creative and tasty. Small and pricey, but worth it because of the flavors. My friend and I ordered the 4 course meal and split it. The presentation was superb and the flavors were on point and beyond. Was pleasantly surprised about how fabulous the flavors were. Very pricey, but I would recommend this place. Not one thing to complain about. Next time I will not share my food. The four course meal is a perfect meal.
… moreAshley Carswell
Elevated elegant flavors in each dish. Cozy yet modern atmosphere. Perfect for a classy date night. Would recommend: prix fix menu: beets and plum salad, pork belly, wagu, pasta, and peach cobbler.
… moreshawna rover
I have a relative working here which brought me in, so hopefully I am not too biased. I am not a foodie, but do like an occasional splurge for quality dining. Thursday evening was slow for them, so service might have been better than usual. They had great suggestions with a laid back approach. The cocktails were phenomenal. I was able to sample three from our table. That clear margarita was a bit spicy, but paired well with the meat dish. The pork belly starter was crispy and tender, a must. I enjoyed the cold soup way more than I thought I would. Good luck parking though.
… moreKerri Wilson
This restaurant is truly one of our all-time favorites. It stands in a league of its own—unlike anything else you’ll find in San Diego. Every time we come, it’s a reminder of how food can be both elevated and deeply personal, sophisticated yet completely unpretentious.
The portions are small, allowing each dish to shine with incredible depth, complexity, and flavor. There’s an effortless perfection in everything they do—from the beautifully balanced cocktails to the precise and thoughtful plating. They can make an of their cocktails into mocktails too. You can tell nothing is overdone, yet every element is considered.
The atmosphere is also one of a kind. It’s elevated, yes—but casual and welcoming in the best way. The staff makes you feel like part of the family, and there’s a genuine warmth that’s hard to find in fine dining spaces.
Most recently, we had their house-made chocolates filled with caramel, and I’m not exaggerating when I say they were better than some we’ve had at three-star Michelin restaurants. That kind of quality, in a relaxed setting, with people who clearly love what they do? That’s rare. And it’s why we keep coming back.
… moreMsCritiqu eater
Black Radish – Opened the door and walked into an Elegant yet casual interior. The vibe was warm and the staff very kind, accommodating, and friendly. The menu is unique, not the typical items that appear on almost all restaurant menus. First off were the Biscuits. Excellent texture, wonderful flavor and served with a soft herbed butter. Absolutely Amazing. Next up the Coconut soup, Delicious with a hint of spice from thinly sliced Serrano peppers on top and wow! Pure Yum! Following up with the Pappardelle with squash. This dish was perfection. The pasta noodles were cooked perfectly. The flavor of the pasta noodles was delicious and with the sauce and squash it was unbelievably delicious. One of the best pasta dishes I have ever had. The food is amazing and full of delicious flavors. High quality ingredients expertly prepared.
2 criticisms however;
* The portions are ridiculously small with a steep price tag
* The bathroom is part of the main dining room so when one walks into the bathroom those sitting at certain tables can view the interior of the bathroom – I find this distasteful.
… moreAlexandra Walters
We absolutely loved coming here to celebrate our marriage. One of our new fav restaurants in San Diego. Service and food was fantastic.
Tasting menu was a great price. Def needs to be on the Michelin Guide.
… moreMatthew L.
Max and Alejandro defined the service here. Not only were they attentive and kind; they went out of their way to make this a superb experience.
The restaurant itself is amazing and quite chic. Do not miss this.
… moreC M-R
This establishment is an exceptional dining establishment that greatly impressed me. The staff exhibited exceptional helpfulness and friendliness. The ambiance was reminiscent of the Latin District in Paris, exuding a bohemian atmosphere without the distraction of loud music, allowing for comfortable conversation. The cocktails were truly remarkable, a testament to the skill of the mixologist, Kelly. While I could have indulged in another cocktail, we had brought two bottles of wine, an Amarone and a Pinot Noir, to complement the meal.
The cuisine is a fusion of modern Californian and French influences, showcasing the talent of the chef. They are accommodating to dietary restrictions, such as food allergies. The pork belly is highly recommended, and I also thoroughly enjoyed the pear salad. For my main course, I savored the exceptional duck breast, which was moist, tender, and bursting with flavor.
Be sure to save room for their seasonal desserts, which are equally delightful.
Overall, this establishment ranks among one of my my favorite restaurants in San Diego.
… more