The San Diego Zoo started with a number of animals left over from the historic 1915 Panama–California Exposition, which took place in San Diego. It is a must-see spot if you're in the city. It is a pioneer in the world of conservation, research, and the concept of recreating naturalistic habitats for animals using open-air, cageless exhibits.
Built over 100 acres in Balboa Park, the zoo boasts over 12,000 animals of various species. To a visitor's delight, the zoo also offers an extensive selection of food and drinks when you need a little break. Stay tuned as we go over the San Diego Zoo food options and explore its restaurants and shacks.
If you want to experience a unique tasting event of food and beverages that Southern California has to offer, drop in at the San Diego Zoo Food, Wine and Brew 2025 on May 3, 2025. Here, you can indulge in bite-sized selections of local culinary delights, sip on beer and wine crafted in Southern California, enjoy the music as you wander around some of the zoo exhibits, and get to know wildlife even more closely at the Conservation Stage. This event is strictly for those who are 21 and above, however, you'll find a number of non-alcoholic brews and drinks. Not only is this a fun and relaxing new way of exploring the zoo, but you'll also be helping the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance continue with their work in research and conservation!
San Diego Zoo's food offerings are as varied as its inhabitants. However, some unique dining experiences are Sydney's Grill for its barbeque, Treetops Bistro for its stunning views, Hua Mei Cafe for its Asian-style food, and Tundra Treats for its pretzels.
Yes, there are several vegan and vegetarian options available in almost all the San Diego Zoo food stalls and restaurants.
Yes, a number of food shacks and joints have gluten-free food available on the menu, which are prominently mentioned.
Although there are a lot of fast food and snack options at the zoo, it also has a number of healthy food items at various food spots. Salads, wraps, and sandwiches are widely available.
Yes, guests can bring their own food in small, single-person containers. However, there is a list of restricted items that visitors cannot bring inside: party decor, large coolers, glass items, outside alcohol, etc.
San Diego Zoo has a number of affordable as well as mid-range dining options. Family meals might cost anywhere from $50 to $70, however, you can get a good meal and a drink for under $30.
The food stall or shack usually takes up the theme of the enclosure it is situated in. In that way, most of the stalls are themed. But the only formal dining restaurant here is Albert's Restaurant, named after a beloved Gorilla who was a former resident of the zoo.
Yes, there are water refill stations scattered all over the zoo. You can also ask for free water at the food stalls.
There is a designated picnic area at the San Diego Zoo and you can bring your own food in small containers for a fun day out. Picnic tables can also be found throughout the zoo.
While you cannot feed the animals at the San Diego Zoo, you can feed the giraffes and the rhinos at the San Diego Safari Park as part of a particular tour.
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