About This Spot

Walking into Tom Ham's Lighthouse feels like stepping into a serene maritime retreat perched right on the edge of San Diego’s sparkling harbor. There’s a gentle energy here—an inviting blend of relaxed sophistication and coastal charm that sets an easy pace for the evening. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame stunning views of the Coronado Bridge and glimmering city skyline, inviting you to settle in and soak it all in without rush.

The atmosphere strikes a thoughtful balance between upscale and approachable. Whether you're drawn in by the classic nautical vibe of the converted lighthouse or the soft murmur of conversations carried on ocean breezes, the ambiance encourages a genuine sense of connection—between friends over a shared bottle of champagne, couples savoring seafood classics, or solo diners content with a well-crafted cocktail at the bar.

Food here feels like a practiced conversation with the sea. Dishes arrive with joy and subtlety, bringing forward the richness of fresh shellfish, delicate scallops, and bold flavors like buttery lobster bisque or perfectly roasted whole fish. The care in every bite reflects the thoughtful rhythms of San Diego’s coastline, where freshness isn’t just a catchphrase but a way of life. Complementing this are seasonal sides that often surprise—a touch of smoky bacon with maple-glazed brussels sprouts, or the gentle heat of Aleppo chili on tender green beans—quietly enhancing the main event without overwhelming it.

Whether it's a leisurely Sunday brunch or a sunset dinner, the experience favors those who appreciate a moment of calm luxury, good company, and the kind of food that whispers stories of the ocean. There’s warmth here—not just from the glowing sunset, but from a staff who knows how to make you feel seen without fuss, and a setting that invites lasting memories without pretense.

What’s Available Here

  • IconIdentifies as veteran-owned
  • IconIdentifies as women-owned
  • IconOutdoor seating
  • IconTakeaway
  • IconDine-in
  • IconDelivery
  • IconFast service
  • IconGreat beer selection
  • IconGreat cocktails
  • IconGreat coffee
  • IconGreat dessert
  • IconGreat wine list
  • IconServes local specialty
  • IconSport
  • IconLunch
  • IconDinner
  • IconSolo dining
  • IconWheelchair-accessible car park
  • IconWheelchair-accessible entrance
  • IconWheelchair-accessible seating
  • IconWheelchair-accessible toilet
  • IconAlcohol
  • IconBeer
  • IconCocktails
  • IconCoffee
  • IconComfort food
  • IconHappy-hour drinks
  • IconHappy-hour food
  • IconHealthy options
  • IconPrivate dining room
  • IconSmall plates
  • IconSpirits
  • IconVegetarian options
  • IconWine
  • IconBrunch
  • IconLunch
  • IconDinner
  • IconCatering
  • IconDessert
  • IconSeating
  • IconTable service
  • IconBar on site
  • IconToilet
  • IconCasual
  • IconCosy
  • IconHistoric
  • IconRomantic
  • IconTrendy
  • IconUpmarket
  • IconFamily friendly
  • IconGroups
  • IconLGBTQ+ friendly
  • IconTourists
  • IconBrunch reservations recommended
  • IconLunch reservations recommended
  • IconDinner reservations recommended
  • IconAccepts reservations
  • IconCredit cards
  • IconDebit cards
  • IconCredit cards
  • IconHigh chairs
  • IconKids' menu
  • IconFree of charge street parking
  • IconFree parking lot
  • IconParking

Location & Hours

Monday 11:30 AM - 09:00 PM
Tuesday 11:30 AM - 09:00 PM
Wednesday 11:30 AM - 09:00 PM
Thursday 11:30 AM - 09:00 PM
Friday 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Sunday 09:30 AM - 09:00 PM

Guest Reviews

CeLauDz Dreciy 04 Dec 2025

The place was great, it was an old light house. The view outside was breathtaking, you can see the buildings and Coronado bridge perfect view in fine dining. The food was delicious I got the lobster bisque with bread and their perfect butter herb love it. Beer braised short ribs with mash potato and grilled asparagus. For the dessert I got the vanilla fruit creme brulee.. Love the ambiance and wonderful service. Price was reasonable since its Restaurant Week. My friends and I had a great time.

Andre G 28 Nov 2025

Note that Sunday brunch is mandatory at over $80 a person, otherwise you can only sit at the bar (not outside) and have a drink. I wanted a light lunch so a full brunch ticket was not in the cards. But I did return with a group for dinner and we had stunning views seated indoors next to the giant windows and everyone loved their food. Service was fantastic, definitely a fun experience and perfect for views! Note that it does feel dated inside with a bit of an “empty” dining room missing decor, or just too much floor space. Kind of felt like tables setup in a wedding venue place. Interior was lacking but the expansive views were wonderful.

Shelley Mcdaniel 12 Nov 2025

Perfect anytime of year. Food is always delicious and fresh. The service is spectacular. Highly suggest you make a reservation, grab a drink at the bar and enjoy your evening.

Jerome Trembley 03 Nov 2025

Tom Ham’s Lighthouse is an upscale, very nice seafood restaurant very close to the San Diego Airport. In fact, it’s walking distance to the Sheraton. It succeeds at providing an upscale experience without crossing into pretentious nonsense. You can come here and have absolutely world class seafood without needing a tie (unless that’s your gig). Drinks were strong and fairly priced (10-17 dollars based on the drink). Kids meal provided ample portions for children - perhaps a bit more than they actually need. Two small kids can split a meal and still have left overs. We ordered a dozen of oysters (chefs dozen) which were prepared immaculately. The Boulabaise was phenomenal and had a creamy, tangy broth cooked to perfection with a millet of lobster, oysters, clams, and other assorted shellfish. They Scallops were also cooked to perfection. In many ways, Scallops is a test of seafood cooking ability as the prime texture window is quite small. Fortunately, I’m happy to report that they were all perfect with an excellent portion. Please consider this restaurant for date night, family night, or a non-chain seafood experience on the harbor.

Keith Jackson 19 Oct 2025

Fantastic experience! We went to the Sunday brunch and it was excellent. The $80 per person is worth the price. Great food, great service (thank you Sarah!) and awesome views. This was a high point during our trip to San Diego. Be sure to book ahead.

Raffi Alexanian 17 Oct 2025

I visited Tom Ham’s Lighthouse and overall had a really nice experience. The location is beautiful, the views of the water and skyline are truly the highlight and make it worth the visit. The staff were friendly and attentive, and the service throughout the meal was very good. What felt a bit strange, though, was the main dining area. It’s set up more like a large hall or event space rather than a cozy restaurant. Because of that, it didn’t really have the warm dining atmosphere I was expecting. It felt a bit open and impersonal, even though everything was clean and well-kept. That said, the place itself is unique, the setting is lovely, and the environment outside the dining hall is very nice. With such a great view and good service, it’s still a spot worth trying, especially if you’re there for the scenery and experience as much as the food and ambiance.

Sky Thai 25 Sep 2025

A very cool restaurant that was a lighthouse. Great for groups and has beautiful views overlooking then city. Food is pretty good and the history is pretty cool. There is plenty of parking too so shouldn’t be an issue. I got the Bouillabaisse and it was very flavorful with a good assortment of seafood. The Cauliflower was also pretty good and was nice to share as well. Service was friendly and attentive too.

Greg K 15 Sep 2025

I went there with some coworkers and some clients to enjoy a happy hour. We got some cocktails and some appetizers. The high barstools are very comfortable and you can see the great view from the large windows behind the bar. The bartenders were very friendly and helpful too. It’s really fun to enjoy a happy hour out on the patio when the weather is pleasant.

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