Island Prime menu prices reflect the upscale steakhouse experience with ocean views and prime cuts. If you’re planning a visit to this San Diego waterfront gem, you need to know exactly what you’re paying for before you sit down. The Island Prime menu with prices is your key to budgeting for a memorable meal without surprises.
This guide breaks down every section of the menu, from appetizers to desserts. You’ll get real price ranges, portion sizes, and tips to save money. No fluff, just facts.
Island Prime Menu With Prices: An Overview
Island Prime sits on the San Diego Bay with floor-to-ceiling windows. The menu focuses on high-quality steaks, fresh seafood, and classic sides. Prices here reflect the prime location and premium ingredients.
You can expect to spend between $40 and $120 per person, depending on your choices. Drinks and desserts add to the total. Below is a quick snapshot of what you’ll find.
- Appetizers: $14 to $28
- Steaks: $42 to $98
- Seafood: $32 to $68
- Sides: $10 to $16
- Desserts: $10 to $16
These prices can shift slightly with seasonal changes or market costs. Always check the restaurant’s current menu before you go.
Appetizers And Small Plates
Start your meal with something light or shareable. The appetizer section has options for every taste.
- Jumbo Lump Crab Cake: $24. Served with remoulade and micro greens.
- Ahi Tuna Tartare: $26. Comes with wonton chips and avocado.
- Shrimp Cocktail: $22. Five large shrimp with cocktail sauce.
- Bacon-Wrapped Scallops: $28. Four scallops with balsamic glaze.
- French Onion Soup: $14. Classic preparation with Gruyère.
- Caesar Salad: $16. Romaine, parmesan, house-made croutons.
These portions are generous. Two people can easily share two appetizers and still have room for mains.
Steaks And Chops
This is the heart of the menu. Island Prime sources USDA Prime and Choice cuts. All steaks are cooked over an open flame.
- 8 oz Filet Mignon: $54. Tender and lean.
- 12 oz New York Strip: $52. Bold flavor with good marbling.
- 16 oz Ribeye: $62. Rich and juicy.
- 22 oz Bone-In Ribeye: $78. Extra flavor from the bone.
- 14 oz Prime Dry-Aged New York: $68. Aged 28 days for depth.
- 8 oz Wagyu Flat Iron: $98. Premium marbling.
- Lamb Chops: $48. Four chops, herb-crusted.
- Pork Chop: $42. 12 oz, brined and grilled.
All steaks come with a choice of one sauce. Options include béarnaise, chimichurri, peppercorn, and red wine demi-glace. No extra charge for sauce.
Steak Add-Ons
You can upgrade your steak experience with these extras:
- Truffle Butter: $6
- Blue Cheese Crust: $8
- Oscar Style (crab, asparagus, béarnaise): $14
These add-ons are worth it if you want something special. The Oscar style is a popular choice.
Seafood Entrees
If steak isn’t your thing, the seafood section has strong options. All seafood is fresh and sustainably sourced.
- Pan-Seared Sea Bass: $48. Served with lemon butter sauce.
- Grilled Salmon: $42. Herb-crusted with roasted vegetables.
- Lobster Tail: $68. 8 oz tail, drawn butter.
- Seared Ahi Tuna: $44. Sesame-crusted with soy ginger glaze.
- Shrimp Scampi: $36. Linguine, garlic, white wine.
Portions are generous. The sea bass and salmon are lighter options if you want to save room for dessert.
Burgers And Sandwiches
Island Prime offers a few casual options for lunch or lighter dinners. These are available during lunch hours and sometimes at dinner.
- Prime Burger: $22. 8 oz patty, cheddar, lettuce, tomato, fries.
- Fish Tacos: $18. Three tacos with cabbage slaw.
- Grilled Chicken Sandwich: $18. Avocado, bacon, aioli.
- Lobster Roll: $26. Warm buttered roll with fries.
The Prime Burger is a solid value. It’s made from the same beef as the steaks.
Side Dishes
Sides are served family-style. Order one or two per person to share.
- Truffle Fries: $14
- Mac and Cheese: $14
- Creamed Spinach: $12
- Grilled Asparagus: $12
- Roasted Mushrooms: $14
- Baked Potato: $10
- Loaded Mashed Potatoes: $14
The truffle fries and mac and cheese are customer favorites. Portions are large enough for two.
Desserts
Save room for something sweet. The dessert menu changes seasonally, but these are staples.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: $14. Served with vanilla ice cream.
- Crème Brûlée: $12. Classic vanilla bean.
- Cheesecake: $14. Berry compote on top.
- Ice Cream Trio: $10. Three scoops, rotating flavors.
Portions are reasonable. The lava cake is rich enough to share.
Drinks And Cocktails
The bar program is strong. You’ll find craft cocktails, wine, and beer.
- Signature Cocktails: $16 to $20
- Wine by the Glass: $12 to $28
- Beer: $8 to $14
- Non-Alcoholic: $4 to $8
The “Island Prime Margarita” is a popular choice. It’s made with fresh lime and premium tequila.
Lunch Menu Prices
Lunch is more affordable. The menu is smaller but still has great options.
- Lunch Steak (8 oz filet): $38
- Lunch Salmon: $28
- Lunch Burger: $18
- Lunch Salad: $16
- Lunch Sandwich: $16
Lunch hours are Monday through Friday, 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM. Reservations are recommended.
Happy Hour Prices
Happy hour runs daily from 4 PM to 6 PM at the bar. It’s a great way to try the menu for less.
- Appetizers: $10 to $16
- Cocktails: $10 to $14
- Wine: $8 to $12
- Beer: $6 to $8
Popular happy hour items include the sliders, calamari, and truffle fries. The bar area fills up fast, so arrive early.
Private Dining And Events
Island Prime offers private dining rooms for groups. Prices vary based on the menu and number of guests.
- Semi-Private Room: Up to 30 guests
- Full Private Room: Up to 80 guests
- Buyout: Up to 200 guests
Contact the restaurant directly for a quote. Minimum spending requirements apply.
How To Save Money At Island Prime
You don’t have to spend a fortune. Here are practical tips.
- Go for lunch. Lunch prices are 20-30% lower than dinner.
- Order the Prime Burger. It’s made from the same beef as the steaks but costs half as much.
- Share sides. Portions are large enough for two.
- Skip the add-ons. The sauces are free and delicious.
- Use happy hour. You can get appetizers and drinks for less.
- Skip dessert. Or share one between two people.
These strategies can bring your total down to $50 per person or less.
What To Expect For Service
Service is professional but not stuffy. The staff knows the menu well and can help you choose.
Expect a 20% gratuity to be added for parties of six or more. This is standard for upscale restaurants.
Valet parking is available for $10. There is also limited street parking nearby.
Reservations And Wait Times
Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends. You can book online through OpenTable.
Without a reservation, expect a 30- to 60-minute wait during peak hours. The bar area is first-come, first-served.
If you’re flexible, try a late lunch or early dinner (4:30 PM) to avoid crowds.
Dietary Restrictions And Allergies
The kitchen can accommodate most dietary needs. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available.
- Gluten-Free: Most steaks and seafood can be prepared without gluten. Ask for no croutons or bread.
- Vegetarian: Salads, sides, and the occasional vegetable entree. Options are limited.
- Vegan: Very limited. Call ahead to check.
- Allergies: Notify your server. The kitchen can modify dishes.
Always confirm with your server about specific needs. The staff is trained to handle allergies.
Island Prime Vs. C-Level
Island Prime shares a building with C-Level, a more casual lounge upstairs. C-Level has a smaller menu and lower prices.
- Island Prime: Fine dining, steak-focused, higher prices
- C-Level: Casual, seafood-focused, lower prices
If you want the full steakhouse experience, stick with Island Prime. For a quick drink and small bites, C-Level works.
What Customers Say About The Prices
Online reviews are generally positive about the value. Most customers say the quality justifies the cost.
Common compliments include the steak quality, ocean view, and service. Common complaints are about the price of drinks and sides.
One reviewer said, “The filet was perfect, but the sides are overpriced for what you get.” Another said, “Happy hour is the best deal in town.”
Overall, Island Prime is seen as a special-occasion restaurant. Most people are happy with the experience.
Seasonal Menu Changes
The menu changes slightly with the seasons. Summer brings more seafood options. Winter has heartier dishes.
Prices may adjust by $2 to $5 depending on ingredient costs. Always check the current menu online before you go.
The restaurant updates its website regularly. You can view the PDF menu there.
How To Order Takeout Or Delivery
Island Prime offers takeout and delivery through third-party services. Prices are the same as dine-in.
- Takeout: Call the restaurant directly. Pick up at the host stand.
- Delivery: Available through DoorDash and Uber Eats.
Takeout is a good option if you want the food without the atmosphere. Just note that steaks may not be as hot as when served in-house.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost per person at Island Prime?
Expect to spend $60 to $120 per person, including a drink and tip. Lunch is cheaper at $40 to $60.
Does Island Prime have a dress code?
Yes, but it’s not strict. Smart casual is recommended. No swimwear or athletic wear.
Can I get the Island Prime menu with prices online?
Yes. The restaurant posts a PDF menu on its website. Prices are updated regularly.
Is there a children’s menu?
Yes. Options include a burger, chicken tenders, and pasta. Prices are around $12 to $16.
Does Island Prime offer gift cards?
Yes. You can buy them online or at the restaurant. They make a great gift for steak lovers.
Final Thoughts On Island Prime Menu Prices
Island Prime delivers a premium dining experience with a price tag to match. The food is high quality, the service is solid, and the view is unbeatable.
If you’re on a budget, stick to lunch or happy hour. If you’re celebrating something special, go all out with a steak and a cocktail.
Knowing the Island Prime menu with prices ahead of time helps you plan. You can enjoy your meal without worrying about the bill.
Book a reservation, check the current menu, and bring your appetite. You’re in for a great meal.