Feedback on food quality was mixed; while many praised the steaks and seafood, others reported issues with overcooked or bland dishes.
Service
Service received high marks for attentiveness and friendliness, though some customers noted inconsistencies and slow service during busy times.
Views and Atmosphere
The restaurant's views of the San Diego skyline and bay were frequently highlighted as a major draw, contributing to a pleasant dining experience.
Pricing Concerns
Several reviews mentioned that the prices were high relative to the food quality, with some feeling that the experience did not justify the cost.
DQ
Daniella Quiroz
Feb 17, 2026
1.0
My husband and I were really excited to try this place based off of the reviews but honestly, it was extremely disappointing. The waiter/service was great but the food was not. We ordered the tuna stack for an appetizer but it had a fishy taste to it. I also ordered the eggplant for my main dish but the noodles were really hard to eat because of how hard and cold they were. The eggplant was also hard to eat because the top of it was very chard. I felt like I was going to choke. My husband ordered some small filet mignon on a plate and he said they had absolutely no flavor and were chewy. The only thing that was decent was their bread and Mac and cheese. Other than that we will not be returning back.
JB
Jordan Brown
Feb 15, 2026
2.0
I recognize that Valentine’s Day comes with its challenges, especially a place that would generally be in high demand. So, I do have some grace with the amount of effort that goes into preparing for an evening like this. That said, for the amount of money, the quality of the food was disappointing, at best, and in some ways unacceptable.
With limited menu options, this shouldn’t necessarily be a concern, in my opinion. 4 or 5 apps, 4 or 5 entrees, 3 desserts. The quality of the food SHOULD be exceptional. Tonight, it simply wasn’t. Add in that they weren’t *super* busy makes it even more strange that things were what they were. To start positive, The lobster bisque and Korean beef tartare were quite good. However, the main entree of center cut filet mignon, potatoes au gratin, and asparagus were not up to the standard that should be expected of a $99 meal. As another reviewer stated, they were a fatty mess, needed salt/garlic/something, and I don’t remember what the sauce was (or what it added to the dish overall) but that also speaks to the problem with the entrees tonight: they were unremarkable and unmemorable. Also, perhaps this was the canary in the coal mine for the night, but My girlfriend ordered her steak medium and it came out medium well at best and probably well done. They fixed it - which we’re grateful for - and mistakes happen, but that was the general vibe of the food offerings for the night.
As for dessert, I LOVE Tiramisu. Absolutely my favorite dessert, without question. So, maybe the entrees would be a dud but we could finish strong with a great dessert. Well, no. It was still somewhat frozen on the inside. There was really no coffee/espresso flavor to speak of. There was no creaminess of mascarpone. Everything about the dessert was very bland and blended together and unremarkable.
Our waiter was attentive and helpful, service was good, and the views are spectacular. Just wish the food could have been the same.
DD
Dominator
Feb 14, 2026
1.0
Went for valentine's day. Got the center cut filet that was a fatty mess. The whole place, including the service, just gave off a vibe of a place trying to be fancy but wasn't. Like the type of place that's cool for prom, but if you're an adult, maybe pass. View was very nice but certainly wasn't worth the price. Ruth's Chris is a much better option for steak and is only a few miles away.
DS
Daniel Sanchez
Feb 14, 2026
3.0
The steak was great, the drinks were great. The swordfish was great. The seating was VERY awkward we were in an isle, people were constantly brushing passed us like the seat was literally in the MIDDLE of the isle. Also the Cesar salad was literally a head of lettuce cut in half and a dollip of Cesar dressing. Ive never seen a "salad" served like that before. You literally had to cut it into pieces yourself to eat it, its a salad not a steak. Lastly there was a baby crying off and on the whole time. I thought for the price I paid (over $250 before tip) it left a LOT to be desired.
BE
Bradford Weddings & Events
Jan 29, 2026
1.0
Unfortunately, our experience after dining at Island Prime has been extremely disappointing.
We were double charged at the time of payment, resulting in two pending charges restricting access to our funds while we were on vacation. Management acknowledged the issue and explicitly told us the duplicate charge would fall off by Friday. That did not happen.
Despite multiple follow-ups and clear documentation, the duplicate pending authorization remained unresolved, and communication stopped altogether. We were then made to feel as though this was somehow our responsibility to manage with our bank, even though the issue originated with the restaurant’s payment processing system and a specific resolution timeline was promised and missed.
This situation caused real financial disruption during our trip and was handled poorly from a customer service standpoint. High-end pricing should come with professional follow-through and accountability — neither of which we experienced here.
I would strongly caution others to monitor their charges closely if dining here.
Yes, Island Prime accepts reservations, which can be made through their reservation website or OpenTable.
What are the operating hours of Island Prime?
Island Prime is open for dinner from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM Monday through Friday and Sunday, and from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Saturday.
What type of cuisine does Island Prime offer?
Island Prime offers American cuisine with fine dining and steakhouse specialties.
Is Island Prime suitable for families with children?
Island Prime has a children's menu and high chairs available but generally does not welcome families with children.
Does Island Prime serve alcoholic beverages?
Yes, Island Prime serves a full range of alcoholic beverages including wine, beer, cocktails, and liquor, and has a bar onsite.
Does Island Prime have outdoor seating and accessibility features?
Yes, Island Prime offers outdoor seating and is fully wheelchair accessible with accessible entrances, parking, seating, and restrooms.
What payment options are accepted at Island Prime?
Island Prime accepts major credit cards including American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, as well as debit cards and mobile NFC payments.
What nearby attractions can I visit before or after dining at Island Prime?
You can visit nearby spots such as Coasterra and Skyline Bar at Coasterra for cocktails, or take boat tours with San Diego Catamarans or Sail Riviera San Diego to enjoy the bay area.
Is there a convenient way to enjoy nightlife near Island Prime?
Yes, you can visit lounges and bars nearby like C Level Lounge and Harbor Docs bar to continue your evening after dining at Island Prime.
How can I get to Island Prime using local amenities?
Island Prime is located on Harbor Island Drive with nearby boat tours and marinas such as Safe Harbor Sunroad and Seaforth Boat Rentals, which offer travel and recreation options close to the restaurant.
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