Kearny Mesa - San Diego, CA Area Guide

The area's namesake is Camp Kearny, a military base named after a Brigadier General in the Mexican-American War. Originally acquired by the city of San Diego as a replacement for its airport, the area began commercial developments in 1955. It has grown steadily since then, with the creation of several residential developments.

The community celebrates its Asian-American heritage each year with an Asian culture festival. Activities at the festival include costumed dancing and martial arts demonstrations. It also features music by Asian artists as well as Asian-style food.

The dining experience in Kearny Mesa reflects the American and Asian cultures that come together in the neighborhood.

Wa Dining Okan provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere with its emphasis on appreciating the customer. The restaurant has a cozy feeling, with sake bottles and Japanese paintings across the walls. Ask for their seasonal recommendation for an exotic taste imported directly from Japan.

If you're looking for a generous portion of Thai food at a low cost, check out Chaba Thai Kitchen. Conveniently located on Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, the restaurant packs spiciness into almost every dish. Try out the khao soi noodles for a meal rarely served outside of northern Thailand.

The Cajun cuisine made famous in New Orleans comes to this area at Bud's Louisiana Cafe. With a design inspired by the culture of New Orleans, it brings a festive environment. Start off with the jalapeño cornbread, but don't leave without trying a bowl of the Cajun jambalaya.

A laid-back, casual environment characterizes the Kearny Mesa nightlife. You can find live music at several restaurants in the area, such as The Godfather Restaurant, and at the neighborhood's bars, which often bring in local DJs. If you want a high-energy night, check out Min Sok Chon, a Korean karaoke bar. Especially popular on weekends, Min serves flavored soju shots to help shy performers warm up.

With freeways bordering most of the area and several bus routes running through the neighborhood, getting around is pretty easy.

Interstate 805 borders the area on the west, and Interstate 15 borders it on the east, making car travel simple no matter where you need to go. California State Route 163 cuts through the region diagonally, allowing you to drive through the center of Kearny Mesa quickly without taking streets.

The Kearny Mesa Transit Center provides access to every bus route that services the neighborhood, all at one convenient, central location. Take one of the buses on route 20 when you need an express ride to downtown San Diego.

Bicycle routes on the major streets make this area very cycle friendly. The buses come equipped with bicycle racks, allowing riders to combine cycling with public transportation. Taxis and ride share services such as Uber both service the area.

Despite being one of the smaller communities in San Diego, this area has large parks and recreation centers, showcasing its commitment to its residents.

Located between Kearny Senior High School and San Diego Mesa College, the Kearny Mesa Recreation Center provides residents with 70 acres of fields and spaces for activities. All ages are included, so you can sign up for a soccer league and drop the kids off at jazz class while you play. The park welcomes dogs and includes a dog park area where they can burn off some energy off leash.

Those on the other side of the 163 Freeway should check out Centrum Park, a haven for kids and dogs. Dogs can run around without a leash, and a playground, complete with jungle gyms and swings, makes it fun for kids. The barbecue area lets you hold a sunny weekend cookout that the entire family will enjoy.

Kearny Mesa offers a diverse array of rental options that cater to all tastes and budgets. Whether you're envisioning a cozy studio or a spacious multi-bedroom haven, there's something here to make you feel right at home. Rental prices in this vibrant locale can vary depending on factors like location, size, and amenities. On average, a stylish one-bedroom apartment costs around $2,700 per month, while renting a house in Kearny Mesa will cost around $3,100 or more per month. For those who dream of calling Kearny Mesa home for the long term, the real estate scene is equally exciting, with the average house price hovering around the $800,000 mark.

The shopping experience in the area focuses on one-of-a-kind boutiques with a shopping center that provides residents with all the essentials.

Conveniently located on Clairemont Mesa Boulevard right next to Interstate 805, McGrath Court provides residents with a place to fulfill all their daily needs. Get a workout in at LA Fitness, shop for groceries at Food 4 Less and finish your trip with a look through discounted items at Wal-Mart.

If you're looking for stylish apparel, stop by Fashion Accessories. The whimsical shop has sparkling jewelry and beads throughout the store, and the staff love to give fashion advice. Get one of their custom-made necklaces, and you know you'll be the only one wearing it.

Next time you need some stylish clothes, visit Ny Moda on Convoy Street. The owner handpicks all the clothes to keep the store stocked with high-quality items. With men's, women's and children's clothing, you're sure to find a new piece for your wardrobe at an affordable price.

Grocery shopping can be done at any of the larger retailers in the area, but meat lovers will want to check out The Meatmen. The handmade salamis and sausages use only organic spices and don't have any nitrates or nitrites. Clever names such as "the naughty constable" and "tasty treason" make each item memorable.