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IMPERIAL STEAKHOUSE, Tijuana Travel Guide

4.2 (162)

San Diego's 1969 steakhouse legend: premium grilled steaks, live piano vibes, tableside flair, and Irish-Texas hospitality in Bankers Hill's elegant hideaway.

Nestled in San Diego's Bankers Hill, Imperial Steakhouse delivers classic 1950s steakhouse elegance with premium, never-frozen steaks grilled to perfection by Texas-born Chef Dave. Enjoy tableside preparations, live piano music, a lively bar with craft cocktails, and an old-school ambiance featuring red leather booths and comfy armchairs. Open evenings with moderate pricing, it's ideal for special occasions, offering hearty steaks, fresh seafood, Tex-Mex twists, and complimentary desserts.

A brief summary to IMPERIAL STEAKHOUSE

  • 505 Kalmia St, San Diego, Bankers Hill, California, 92101, US
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  • Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Tuesday 5 pm-10 pm
  • Wednesday 5 pm-10 pm
  • Thursday 5 pm-10 pm
  • Friday 5 pm-2 am
  • Saturday 5 pm-2 am
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring IMPERIAL STEAKHOUSE.

  • Reserve ahead for weekends; lounge fills with live music crowds.
  • Opt for Cowboy Ribeye or Tomahawk—perfectly grilled signatures.
  • Enjoy happy hour for craft cocktails in the lively bar.
  • Steaks include free dessert; skip pricey sides.

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Getting There

  • Driving

    15-min drive from downtown San Diego; street parking or nearby lots available, $5-10/hr.

  • Public Transit

    Bus 3 or 83 to Laurel St, 5-min walk; $2.50 fare, 20-min total from city center.

  • Rideshare

    Uber/Lyft from airport, 10-min ride, $15-25; drop-off at door.

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

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  • Food Options
  • Seating Areas

Discover more about IMPERIAL STEAKHOUSE

Classic Steakhouse Heritage

Since 1969 in Bankers Hill, Imperial Steakhouse has embodied timeless steakhouse tradition. Irish-owned with a Texas grill master at the helm, it serves prime cuts—dry-aged, never frozen—alongside fresh seafood and creative Tex-Mex. The 1950s-inspired decor includes grand pianos, bull skull accents, and intimate lounges, creating a clubby retreat from San Diego's bustle.

Prime Cuts and Culinary Highlights

Standouts include the Cowboy Bone-in Ribeye, Tomahawk, and Porterhouse, praised for tenderness and flawless grilling. Sides like baked potatoes and mashed potatoes come gratis with entrées, while tableside spectacles such as Bananas Flambé add flair. Craft cocktails, stiff drinks, and a robust wine list complement meals. Vegetarian options and Baja-style dishes ensure variety for all palates.

Lively Lounge and Entertainment

Beyond dining, the lounge pulses with live music, piano performances, and occasional karaoke or comedy. Happy hours draw crowds for unwinding, while private rooms host events with live piano. The bar crafts seasonal martinis and classics, fostering a festive vibe perfect for mingling or celebrations.

Ambiance and Service

Red leather banquettes, ornate doors, and warm lighting evoke old-school luxury. Attentive staff balance privacy and care, making it a local favorite for dates, family dinners, and business meets. Though sides can be pricey, steaks deliver exceptional value in a city of high-end spots.

Practical Details

Located at 505 Kalmia St, reservations recommended as last seating is 9 PM. Evenings only, closed Mondays and Sundays, with extended weekend hours. Parking available nearby, blending accessibility with an exclusive feel.

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