San Diego Food & Drink

13 Best Spicy Food Restaurants in San Diego, CA

San Diego is known for its beautiful beaches, perfect weather, and of course, its spicy food.

From Mexican to Thai, there are plenty of restaurants that offer the spiciest dishes in town. If you are a fan of spicy food, San Diego is the perfect place to be.

In this blog post, we will be reviewing some of the best spicy food restaurants in San Diego. Whether you are looking for something with a kick or something that will make you sweat, we have got you covered.

We will be exploring the different cuisines that offer the spiciest dishes and giving you an insight into what to expect when you visit these restaurants.

San Diego is a melting pot of cultures, and that is reflected in its cuisine. From the classic Mexican dishes like tacos and burritos to the spicy Thai curries, there is no shortage of options for those who love a bit of heat in their food.

We have scoured the city to find the best restaurants that offer the spiciest and most flavorful dishes. Whether you are a local or a tourist, this blog post will guide you to some of the best spicy food restaurants in San Diego. So, get ready to indulge your taste buds and explore the spicy side of San Diego.

1. Plumeria Vegetarian Restaurant

Plumeria Vegetarian Restaurant
4661 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92116 (Google Maps)

Plumeria Vegetarian Restaurant offers a delicious vegetarian Thai menu in a modern setting.

The restaurant serves vegan and vegetarian versions of classic Thai dishes, including spicy noodles and pad Thai. The portions are generous, and the flavors are bold and exciting.

The staff is friendly and welcoming, and the service is prompt. The restaurant also offers a variety of drinks, including wine and Asian beer.

If you're looking for a vegetarian Thai restaurant with a modern vibe, Plumeria Vegetarian Restaurant is a great choice.

2. Sukho Thai Extraordinaire

Sukho Thai Extraordinaire
2789 Adams Ave, San Diego, CA 92116 (Google Maps)

Sukho Thai Extraordinaire is a must-try for anyone who loves Thai food. The restaurant offers delicious and fresh Thai cuisine, with a focus on seafood and vegetables.

The star of the menu is the spicy noodles, which are infused with a variety of pepper flavors and Thai basil.

The restaurant is also accommodating when it comes to spiciness levels, so you can enjoy your meal at any heat intensity you prefer.

The service is friendly and prompt, and the atmosphere is cozy and relaxed. Don't forget to try the lychee martini and Thai tea for a refreshing drink option.

3. Sang Dao Restaurant

Sang Dao Restaurant
5421 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92115 (Google Maps)

Sang Dao Restaurant is a family-owned Thai and Laotian restaurant that spices up your taste buds with its unique flavors. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous.

The service is excellent, and the atmosphere is cozy and clean. The menu has a variety of dishes, and the staff explains the different flavors and sauces.

The food is authentic and freshly prepared, and the seafood dishes are a must-try. The spice levels are high, so be careful when ordering.

The restaurant does not serve alcohol, but they have a variety of hot sauces on the table. Sang Dao Restaurant is a great spot for groups and families who want to enjoy delicious food with a kick.

4. Sovereign Modern Thai Cuisine

Sovereign Modern Thai Cuisine
1460 J St, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Sovereign Modern Thai Cuisine serves up authentic Malaysian and Laotian inspired dishes.

The menu offers a unique twist on traditional Thai cuisine, with dishes such as drunken noodles and curry noodles with crispy duck. The chicken satay and shrimp pad Thai are must-try items.

The spice levels are naturally high, so it's recommended to keep it mild to medium unless you can handle the heat. The service is impeccable and the atmosphere is casual and relaxed.

Sovereign Modern Thai Cuisine is a hidden gem that is definitely worth a visit for those looking to take their taste buds on an epic journey.

5. The Kebab Shop

The Kebab Shop
630 Ninth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

The Kebab Shop is a local chain of fast food-style restaurants that serve Mediterranean cuisine.

They offer a variety of dishes, including shawarmas, salads, and kebab bowls. The restaurant has a modern and trendy decor, and the staff is friendly and helpful.

The menu includes a range of spicy sauces, including a delicious green cilantro sauce. The food is fresh, flavorful, and reasonably priced.

The portions are generous, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner. The Kebab Shop is a must-visit for anyone looking for a tasty and satisfying meal.

6. King Of Thai cuisine

King Of Thai Cuisine
6171 Mission Gorge Rd suite 115, San Diego, CA 92120 (Google Maps)

King Of Thai cuisine is a spicy food restaurant that offers a great variety of Thai dishes.

The staff is friendly and the food is tasty. Their spice levels are numbered, and they do not disappoint.

The interior decor is beautiful and the prices are affordable.

The portions are ample and the quality is high. This is a great place to get your Thai food fix.

7. Ly Heng Asian Restaurant

Ly Heng Asian Restaurant
4451 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105 (Google Maps)

Ly Heng Asian Restaurant is a must-visit for fans of spicy food. This Cambodian and Chinese restaurant offers a range of flavorful dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving for heat.

The restaurant's bone broth soup is a standout, and pairs well with any of the entrees.

While service can be slow during busy hours, the fresh and delicious food is worth the wait. Don't miss out on the shaking beef, a customer favorite.

Ly Heng Asian Restaurant is a great option for those looking for authentic and spicy Asian cuisine.

8. Soi 30th

Soi 30Th
3442 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104 (Google Maps)

Soi 30th is a cozy and colorful spot that serves up some seriously delicious contemporary Thai cuisine.

With a variety of vegan and vegetarian options, there's something for everyone. But what really sets this restaurant apart is the spice level – it's not for the faint of heart.

If you're looking for a serious kick of heat, Soi 30th is the place to be. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is laid-back and comfortable.

Whether you're in the mood for something spicy or just want to try something new, Soi 30th is definitely worth a visit.

9. So Saap

So Saap
4710 Market St, San Diego, CA 92102 (Google Maps)

So Saap is an excellent spicy food restaurant that offers authentic Laotian and Thai cuisine.

Their menu boasts a variety of dishes, ranging from papaya salad to lemongrass grilled steak. The chefs know how to handle spice, so be prepared for a fiery experience.

The service is fast and friendly, and the portions are generous. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it a great place to dine with friends or family.

If you're looking for a delicious and authentic Southeast Asian meal, So Saap is definitely worth checking out.

10. Trieu Chau Restaurant

Trieu Chau Restaurant
4653 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105 (Google Maps)

Trieu Chau Restaurant is a hidden gem for those who love spicy Asian cuisine. This small eatery serves up authentic dishes from Vietnam, Thailand, and China.

The lemongrass chicken and drunken noodles are must-try dishes, and the staff is happy to adjust the heat to your liking.

The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable. The restaurant has a hole-in-the-wall feel, but the food is worth the visit.

If you're looking for a true eating experience, Trieu Chau Restaurant is the place to go.

11. Nha Hang Quoc Te Restaurant

Nha Hang Quoc Te Restaurant
4448 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105 (Google Maps)

Nha Hang Quoc Te Restaurant offers a wide range of Vietnamese and Chinese dishes that are bursting with spicy flavors.

The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. The staff is friendly and attentive, providing excellent service.

The prices are reasonable, making it a great option for those on a budget.

The portions are generous, perfect for sharing with friends and family. If you're a fan of spicy food, this restaurant is a must-visit.

12. Tajima Ramen East Village

Tajima Ramen East Village
901 E St, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Tajima Ramen East Village is a sleek and modern ramen restaurant that offers a variety of toppings and rice bowls. The food is served cafeteria-style, and the service is excellent.

The spicy sesame ramen is a must-try, with the right amount of spice and a delicious broth. The pork belly and fried chicken are also highly recommended as appetizers.

The drink menu includes a full bar, local beer, and wine. The vegan ramen is also a great option for those looking for a filling and delicious meal.

Prices are reasonable, and the wait time is minimal. Tajima Ramen East Village is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Japanese cuisine in a trendy setting.

13. Main Chick Hot Chicken

Main Chick Hot Chicken
5175 Linda Vista Rd, San Diego, CA 92110 (Google Maps)

Main Chick Hot Chicken is a must-visit for spice lovers. The chicken is juicy and flavorful, and the spice levels range from mild to insanely hot.

The mac and cheese and coleslaw are delicious sides that perfectly balance out the heat.

The restaurant has a fun and upbeat vibe, with counter service and plenty of seating.

If you're looking for a new spot to satisfy your craving for spicy chicken, Main Chick Hot Chicken is definitely worth checking out.