This post may contain affiliate links. This means I might receive a commission for any purchases made using these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. So, go get your Amazon on!
Hawaii is one of my favorite places in the world. Why am I talking about Hawaii? Well, I found a hidden gem in San Diego that transported me to a similar island paradise. One night after work, I was reviewing possible wedding venues with my mom. We stumbled upon Bali Hai Restaurant in San Diego and loved it. I knew I needed to see it for myself.
A few months later, I am in San Diego. Open Table had plenty of reservations on the morning of. I pull into the parking lot five minutes before the restaurant opens and am greeted by a smiling staff. They gave me a choice in where I wanted to sit. Though the dining room has expansive views of the bay, I am a patio girl by nature.
The menu has a proud Polynesian flair along with salads and sandwiches. The drink menu is several pages of different tropical drinks to choose from.
All photos in this post are mine except otherwise indicated. This post was written based on my personal experience. I was not paid, reimbursed or otherwise solicited to write this post. Just a girl looking to share her favorite places. Cheers!
1. The Polynesian / Asian Cuisine
I wanted every item on the menu. Thankfully, my waiter gave attentive recommendations. Be sure you arrive hungry because you will want a pupus. Pupus is the Hawaiian term for appetizer.
His favorite pupus is the Island Beef Skewers, so that is what I tried. The dish came out with a fall-off-the-bone beef. The teriyaki sauce complimented and had a tropical hint to it.
Despite wanting everything on the menu, I opted for a caesar salad. With the sun overhead, it seemed like a refreshing choice. My waiter was right again when he suggested adding grilled shrimp skewers. I could have had ten more of these salads.
The selection of seafood and Asian cuisine on the menu will leave you wanting more.
Read over 3,000 reviews for Bali Hai Restaurant on YELP!
2. The Tropical Cocktails
If you visit Bali Hai‘s website, you will see the “Mai Tai’s Sold” counter. Over two million Mai Tai’s sold! I fully intended to contribute to this count. Upon arriving at the restaurant, I learned the mai tai’s have 2-3 shots of rum! The menu says “Quite possibly the strongest drink you’ll ever consume”.
I still had to drive back downtown, so I opted for a different cocktail. Mai Tai, I will be back for you!
My waiter recommended his favorite drink, the Pele’s Relief. It was every bit of fruity and refreshing.
After the Pele’s Relief, I knew I would be kicking myself if I did not try the Piña Colada – Bali Hai Style. It came out with whipped cream and a cherry on top! These cocktails were the perfect pairing to my meal and view.
Make your reservations on Open Table now!
3. The Views
I showed up to the restaurant just as it was opening for the day. It turns out, this had its perks, such as, getting to pick where I sat. My table faced the North San Diego Bay. To my left, I had a view of the airport. Every couple of minutes, airplanes were taking off and landing. It was unexpected entertainment watching and wondering about each of the flights. Using Flight Aware, I was able to see where these travelers were coming and going.
Thankfully, it was a clear day when I visited. My table had one-hundred-eight degree views of the city skyline. Looking at the buildings and architecture never got old. Also, there was activity in the water with boats and ships passing by.
I was star struck when the USNS Mercy entered the bay. The USNS Mercy is a hospital ship and is recognizable with its all white body and red medical cross.
4. Exploring The Waterfront Event Space
The Bali Hai Restaurant in San Diego caught my eye when looking for possible wedding venues. I was interested in the event spots on the property. The ceremony sight, pictured above, is nestled between palm trees and looks over the bay.
The Hawaiian Village is the outdoor reception venue. The space looks over the boats in America’s Cup Harbor. There is a built-in firepit, tables and chairs, and lanterns.
The South Pacific Room is the indoor event space. The windows glisten with the water and city’s sights.
5. The Overall Experience
From the minute I arrived, the staff had smiles on their faces. They looked genuinely happy to be working at this oasis restaurant. My waiter freely gave recommendations, most of which I ordered. At the conclusion of my meal, he brought me a complimentary cheesecake. Each bite was heaven.
The two hours I sipped cocktails at Bali Hai were hands down the best part of my trip to San Diego. It took everything in me to leave that day, and ever since I have wanted to share with the world why this hidden gem will transport you to a Polynesian oasis while only twenty minutes away from downtown San Diego.
Book Your Trip Now
Whether you are planning a trip to San Diego or are just looking for inspiration for your next vacation, I hope you enjoyed reading about my favorite places. The only thing better than visiting these spots and enjoying them is getting to share them with friends and family. Please comment if you have tried Bali Hai Restaurant and tell me how you liked it.
Craving more? Check out 9 amazing must-try restaurants and bars in San Diego.
I am always open to recommendations. If you have any favorite spots in San Diego, please share them below!
Cheers!
