Vessel Restaurant Reviews

We came for a cocktail after dinner- Nootzy was our server and she was phenomenal! Thank you for your service and amazing conversation!

Nootzy has the best customer service in California, very personable & kind. Amazing views & great drinks

The food was really good and the drink menu was very extensive - I‘ll definitely come here again, the bar is beautiful

Nootzy was phenomenal. The drinks were made to perfection and the conversation was wonderful . Great time. Thanks

It was a wonderful drinks & dinner but the service by Nootzy was outstanding! Her recommendation of the ahi tuna tacos and the calimari salad was spot on…yummy and delicious!

Nootzy was an excellent bartender and made sure we had a great time! Key Lime Pie was amazing and the drinks were delicious.

Nootzy was awesome and gave us great service. I will definitely recommend this place to family and friends.

Nootzy at the bar was amazing, fast efficient and super friendly. I came for dinner and then back for some drinks later in the evening. Definitely will be back!

Love the vessel bar. Nootzie is the best. Yummy cocktails and key lime pie was great!!!!!! It was busy and everyone was very professional

Quaint winter night at Vessel with a Yummy bowl of chowder! Lovely, wine, and great company. Noontzy is always the favorite at the bar, she makes everyone feel at home.💚

Nootzy was very friendly and cheerful. Explained alot of the area, and great service. She rocks.....

Excellent food and great service by our bartender Nootzy; she makes a great dirty martini and poured our beers perfectly as well as gave us nice conversation! 100% will be back!

We had a great experience as first time visitors. Nootzy was very lovely and made the best drinks for my wife. We felt welcomed by all the staff and they were all very friendly. I would definitely come back and stay here.

Food was wonderful! Breakfast Buffet! Kaveh our server was so gracious and kind so professional and respectful! He took care of our every need so quickly! We loved his personality and smile! Good choice hiring someone with such great skills! We loved watching the seals play in the marina as we ate breakfast also! I definitely give this a 10 out of 10 stars!!

This place has the best ambiance, views, menu, and service! Nootzy is the awesome! She is an amazing bartender and has been dedicated to the Vessel for several years! Enjoy this place!

We had the opportunity to spend the weekend at the Kona Kai Resort in beautiful San Diego California. We chose the location because it’s proximity to the water and local transportation. The resort is amazing and inside is Vessel. The views are spectacular in and around the restaurant. The food, cocktails, and service was above average. We can’t wait to return to Kona Kai and spend more time as this trip was truly memorable.

My wife and I spent a weekend here in sunny Dan Diego. Decided to stay at the Kona Kai Resort and Spa. Little did we know that Vessels Restaurant and Bar would be a stand out memory of the trip. The weekend brunch was excellent. If you’re in the mood for simple eggs, bacon and french toast…they have you covered. If you want something like baked or smoked salmon, crab claws and shrimp… they got you covered there as well. Each night we were there, we stopped by Vessels to have a drink at the bar. The bartender, Nootzy, was ready to whip up something extremely delicious. My wife and I were both satisfied with our drinks. Great place to go at any time of day.

Nootzy is my favorite bartender of ALL TIME!! She is incredible and she makes the best drinks… always with a smile, too.

Ambiance is wonderful and we thoroughly enjoyed the food, especially the calamari salad that Nootzy recommended. Great spot for a late night snack and glass of wine with amazing views and welcoming staff.

I had a great time at the Vessel restaurant bar, Nootzy provided great service! Will definitely come back.

Ambience of this place is quite charming to start with. We ordered a variety of food, and nothing disappointed. On top, they tasted eclectic. Their staff (Bailey and others) are nice and accommodating. We also went just for the drinks in the evening. Again, their staff (Nootzy) is very friendly and nice. They have a wide range of drinks selection. Highly recommend this place for food and drinks.

Nootzy served us and she has been the best, sweetest and most attentive bartender and server for the past several years that I have been coming here.

We wrapped up our evening with a perfect nightcap at The Vessel Bar, thanks to Nootzy, who might just be the soul of the place. She mixed up rich, delicious chocolate martinis - the kind that feel like dessert and a celebration in one glass. Even better was the easy, genuine conversation that made the whole experience feel warm and effortless. A great bartender makes a bar memorable, and Nootzy made sure we ended the night on a high note. Highly recommend stopping by and letting her take care of you. Cheers!

My wife and I came here again last night. We've been here before for happy hour, but haven't had much time for dinner. Nootzy is the bartender and always so nice and on top of things. We never to have to wait for a second round. The food was great as well. We kept it light, but had the bread and spreads, brussel sprouts and some other dishes which were all fantastic.

Great service, nootzy was very helpful and sweet, food was delicious and view was great. We had the burrata and calamari

Shafiq was extremely friendly and made the dinner a memorable one. Ray at front desk was extremely thorough with the check in and was very helpful and friendly too. They made the stay very comfortable.

We had brunch here on a Sunday morning and the staff and service were excellent. The location is amazing and the food is strong but the price for what we ordered just not good value. Standard breakfast and omelette and two coffee with tip $90 US. Is a bit much.

The staff is so amazing and hospitable! Nootzy recommended the best apps and dinner and her cocktails were top notch! I work in the industry so my standards are usually a bit too high for my surroundings but this restaurant and bar has gone above and beyond any expectations I could ever have! I can’t wait to go back! The pricing is also amazing considering the economy and current price raises!

I sincerely enjoyed my breakfast at the Vessel Restaurant. Not only did I try a different menu item every morning for the four days of my stay, but I also enjoyed every item. Personally, I thought my portions were huge (and that is NOT a complaint) and I enjoyed each item. Additionally, I felt my mornings started off well because my hostess, Love (that's her name), greeted me every morning before seating me at the same spot as before (it was also my preferred seat). She was inviting and I enjoyed our conversations and sharing San Diego adventures before indulging in my morning cup of coffee. The morning team was also nice, including the kitchen staff (who occasionally brought out my meal), to the waiters (2 different guys but still personable and engaging), to the assisting waiter (a courteous man who made sure my coffee was full and was quick to pick-up my plates). I highly recommend the Artichoke, Feta, and Spinach Omelet (for additional protein you can request chicken sausage chopped and served with it or on the side) or the Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict, served with a perfectly poached eggs. Both served bigger portions than expected. Also, it doesn't hurt that I enjoy just a quiet morning with me and my breakfast.

Perfect experience, wonderful cuisine, and Nootzy was such a wonderful server!! We love her!! I will be coming back soon to see her.

Nootzy is an amazing bartender! She is always upbeat, welcoming and attentive!!! Nootzy makes the best cocktails in San Diego! We are Marina tenants and she always remembers us;)

Our experience at the Vessel Restaurant was a 10/10. I hosted my 30th Birthday dinner party for 20 guests on the outside patio, overlooking the water. It was the most magical evening! The staff at The Vessel were so accommodating, and their attention to detail made every guest feel very welcome. The guests are STILL raving about how delicious the food was (I ordered the salmon, highly recommend!) and wine selection is amazing. The view from the restaurant is BEAUTIFUL and the sunset made for the most perfect backdrop. The Vessel atmosphere is laid back/ casual, but not so much so that we felt out of place wearing our dresses. The restaurant is clean, and has nice ambience of music playing in the background, not too loud. Shout out to Bailey, our server, for being highly attentive and welcoming, made the night all the more fun for us. Another shout out to Allie who I spoke to multiple times over the phone, confirming little details before the dinner. She was sure to deliver on every one of my (many) requests and had a great can-do attitude. Thank you, Vessel Restaurant! Can't wait to come back with friends and family for years to come.

Ally and Nootzy are an absolute dream team behind the bar! They made the entire experience incredibly enjoyable. Their friendly and welcoming demeanor made us feel right at home. Our afternoon was unforgettable, thanks to them. They were busy with a wedding party but still gave everyone attention. We can't wait to return for more fun.

I brought my bestie here for dinner and drinks. The ambiance, service, and cocktails never disappoint. We sat at the bar and it was our lucky night because Nootzy was working. Nootzy takes such amazing care of every customer and makes everyone feel so special. She's what makes going to Vessel such an exceptional experience. Thank you Nootzy! :-) I'll be back!

I am happy to share that Vessel is my favorite restaurant, my family, my fiance and I enjoy going there. The views are marvelous you get the Marina view plus beautiful sunsets. 🌅🛥️🚤 We love the service offered by all the employees there from the hostess; Lupita and Love they are very sweet and they always give us the warmest welcome 🤗✨ There's a man, his name is Jesus. He's been working for very long time as busboy. Jesus is a hard working man and always attentive and friendly. 💖 Nootzy is the bartender and we love her personality, she's I always cheerful and provides us with the best service. She makes fantastic drinks, my favorite drinks are the Paloma and the Pomelo Negroni. 🍸🍹 The main reason we go to Vessel it's their above and beyond service. Nootzy she's a MVP and I keeper, such a lovely lady 🫶 I truly appreciate the service provided by everyone there they makes us feel like home 🏠

We could not love Kona Kai more! This spot is our happy place. Nootzy makes is so special because she becomes a dear friend to everyone she meets. There is not enough kindness in this world- and when you meet Nootsy, it makes you realize there are still great people out there!

Great view with delicious lunch. The clam chowder was immaculate and the ham and Brie sandwich was great. All alongside a nice Prosecco and a view of the bay and the hills of Point Loma. Great experience!

The vessel restaurant is always top notch. From the start, with Love as hostess, the amazing food-breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the beautiful view of the harbor, and unbelievable customer service. The Vessel has truly become one of my family and I’s favorite restaurant. You can’t beat the experience. I highly recommend if near the area you stop in to give it a try!

Our visits to the Kona Kai Resort wouldn’t be the same without Nootzy! She is, hands down, the best bartender we’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. Every time we come in, she greets us with a warm smile and immediately makes us feel like family. Nootzy goes above and beyond not only for us but for every guest, ensuring everyone feels cared for and welcome. Her attention to detail, quick service, and knack for creating the perfect cocktail are unmatched. Whether it’s a busy evening or a quiet afternoon, she always takes the time to check in and make sure everything is perfect. You can tell she loves what she does, and it truly shines through in her work. Kona Kai is lucky to have someone as dedicated, talented, and personable as Nootzy. We can’t wait to come back and see her again soon! Thank you, Nootzy, for always making our experience exceptional!

My first experience at Vessel was not the best. I wrote a review and gave them 3 Stars. I believe in second chances. Last Sunday, I took my family of 8 there for breakfast and was not disappointed. Everything was 100% improved. The food was double delicious. The service this time was excellent. Our waiter did a splendid job. His name is Shafiq. He was friendly and polite, a true professional. He sent us home with some beautiful memories. The ambiance was awesome in the patio dining area. The second time around proved to be worth the effort. I look forward to returning to Vessel many times in the future. I upgrade my rating to 5 Stars!

Great service and cuisine. Wine Wednesday is always served by shafiq with great attention to detail and very friendly service.

Everything was amazing and Nootzy at the Vessel was wonderful, friendly and full of smiles. Service, food and drinks were awesome. We will definitely be back.

Love the team at Vessel! Amazing friendly team and fantastic breakfast. If you like Eggs Benedict, you will love theirs. Perfect every time! Will be back for sure!

Nootzy was so kind and generous with me and my sister! She always took care of everything we needed and more.

You have to visit Nootzy at the bar. Great service with a smile every time! Great drinks, good food,

We love coming to Kona Kai, and if you have drinks at vessel Nootzy is the best and is always so attentive and wonderful to chat with!

Nootzy is the best bartender in San Diego. Incredible drinks and attentive, personable service.

Nootsie is a star. Amazing service and experience! Dinner was just as we asked and quite tastey. The entolire staff is presenting their "A' game

We went here while staying at the kona resort, bailey was amazing gave us the the best recommendations and was overall amazing. The food was amazing and some of the best fish I ever had

The best place to be on Shelter Island. Met so many good people, friends, and the staff was wonderful. Ask for Noontzy at the bar!

I always have an amazing time at K K and Shafiq is an excellent employee!. He’s always polite, very attentive, helpful . He hosts wine Wednesday for all of the club members and when he sees me walking toward my wine glass is there for me with my favorite wine

Absolutely amazing food! Me and my partner came as a date night and were so pleasantly surprised. Such creative dishes, Chef Ethan Brown really outdoes himself with the fantastic mixes in flavor and aesthetic of the dish. We got oysters, the carrot side dish and the catch of the day meal. Nootsy took such good care of us as well! Not only was the food and drink incredible, the nicest people work here (: highly recommend for any sort of occasion.

Nootzy was a delight! She took care of us at the bar a few times while we were staying Christmas week and everytime she went above and beyond!

Nootzy helped us at the restaurant bar and was so sweet! She made sure we got everything we needed and that it tasted good.

Nootzy was wonderful keep her forever and give her a raise. Well made drinks and wonderful company to have around.

The atmosphere was great, my mushroom ravioli was delicious, our server was fun and efficient, and our view was gorgeous. I’m vegetarian but my friends seemed to love their seafood dishes as they licked their platters clean. Be sure to try the espresso martini!

Friendly staff, but the food and beverage selection, quality and prices were very disappointing. We won’t be going back.

Nootzy is a fabulous bartender, so sweet and makes a mean espresso martini. Great food, drinks, and atmosphere. Highly recommend.

Always a fantastic meal at Vessel! Nootzy makes one of the best dirty martinis in town. Food is amazing and the views of the harbor are spectacular. I would highly recommend Vessel to tourists and locals alike!

This spot is great because of Nootzyyy… I mean, she basically IS the personality of the entire atmosphere. Don’t get me wrong; the restaurant is cute, comfy, welcoming, and chic. The food is delicious and the vibes are Vibin. Access to the little beach area to the fire pit is the perfect way to end the night; well… with a perfectly crafted cocktail that Nootz serves. Don’t miss out on this place. It’s the 💩

We had the Most Awesome evening with Nootzy. She is just so sweet, and made our evening perfect. We enjoyed the Vessel restaurant and views from the Vessel. The staff was great! But Nootzy definantly stood out! We will for sure be back. Thank you Nootzy!

Great spot, great food. Unique and delicious calamari, sea bass and salmon were incredible.Craft cocktails are worth trying.

Comfortable bar seating with a gorgeous view during happy hour. Nootzy took great care of us, gave us good suggestions off the menu. We will be back for sure!

We love Kona Kai, but our real reason to visit is because of Nootzy at the bar. Her spirit lifts us and friendliness is amazing

Our Server and bartender was Amazing! Nootzy Rocks! Already recommended my peeps to check out this Amazing place and a huge part is because of the Customer/Guest Service we received once again! My Wife and I had our Wedding here 24 years ago, still coming back and it’s so wonderful to have devoted and committed people that Care Soo much!!!

Nootzy’s service was fantastic and the bar was great! She was very attentive and was polite in helping us.

Epic days at Vessel Epic days at Vessel with Nootzy as the ultimate service provider! Beautiful, ambience, and amazing views,.. excellent food tops it off!

New restaurant to us…really enjoyed our experience…great water/boat views, great decor and interesting menu…..the highlight was our server, Aaron. Very pleasant, professional and knowledgeable. He made a great first impression for this restaurant. He recommended the calamari salad and it was amazing.

We had a marvelous time at the Kona Kai resort! I am a traveling, hostess for Beatrice Bradley Travel and we had breakfast every morning and every morning we were greeted by Love our gracious hostess! She had a warm and inviting welcome each morning! We also had excellent service from Rubi the bartender and all the other staff members at The Vessel! We had dinner a couple of nights (it was that delicious) we even had a take away for our private dinner on a catamaran near the resort. Love helped set everything up! The chef made special arrangements for us to pick up our meals (8 total) and packaged everything so carefully! It was an exceptional meal and unforgettable service!

Boyfriend and I stayed at the Kona Kai Restaurant which is home to The Vessel restaurant. We had gotten in a little too late so we decided to pick up a to-go order of the lobster carbonara and the clam chowder, both were fantastic. The noodles in the carbonara are what got me and had me wanting to go back for more. My boyfriend stated that the sauce and edamame were his favorite. The best thing about The Vessel is that although it’s located in a resort, outside parking is available and you’re able to walk into the restaurant regardless of you staying at the resort. They care to all walks of life, even your furry friend, which I found was a game changer. Our pup loved the ruff rice with their flank steak. The bartender for that evening and what seemed to be the entire weekend, Nootzy, was so friendly and so welcoming. We enjoyed her company as much as the drinks that she served us. The experience was enjoyable and delightful, definitely planning to come back whether it’s to stay at the resort or to go back to The Vessel because I truly cannot get that lobster carbonara out of my mind. Thank you for being so welcoming and inviting, and to the folks who work at The Vessel, your hard work and friendly hospitality have not gone unnoticed. You guys and truly the best!

Great food. Generous portion. The service was very punctual and friendly. Nootzy was tending bar and very friendly and social and attentive! The views of the marina made for a great backdrop as well. Overall great experience.

Had an amazing stay for the three nights with a group of friends. The rooms were updated with very comfortable beds. We ate at Vessel a couple of nights and for breakfast. The staff was exceptional. Marin was our server who was fabulous. The other staff of Matt, Sonny, and Jesus made our experience a lot of fun and we’re always excited to see our group. Food was delicious. Zach at the front desk went out of his way to celebrate my friend’s birthday.

The margaritas are delicious and the mussels are to die for, especially with the ciabbata and leftover sauce - absolutely would go again!

Amazing ambience! Great crowd and second was top-notch! Nootzy behind the bar created the best experience & it’s worth getting to know her. Secret of Shelter Island ✨

I love this spot!! Nootzy makes the BEST cocktails, and she is so kind and attentive. I highly recommend the Leeward Sea cocktail.

We are Point Loma locals and the Vessel is a go to spot solely because of Nootzy and the drinks she makes. Highly recommend the Leeward Sea, the Banana Old Fashion, and Margarita.

Beautiful view, get the chowder! The service was amazing and the view is unbeatable, great place to stop in for a drink or a quick bite to eat.

Matt R. was incredibly attentive and made the most spectacular cocktails! We’ll definitely be back for his Lemon Drops and friendly service!

The restaurant is the blight on this property . They consistently run out of items like steak fries or breakfast items .The servers are entitled and frankly snotty and no matter what time of day you arrive you appear to be in convincing them , If we arrive at 9:30 the eight tables has them swamped and could come back later ,at 10:30 breakfast is almost over and items like waffles are already put away . DINNER isn't any better and frankly most items are over priced ,but hey you gotta love the waiter that asks if your gonna want your 80 bucks change on a 120.00 dollar check "yea I want my change kid ill decide your tip .Look I've enjoyed this resort for years but ever since covid the Kona Kai hasn't appeared to resume services like maid service ,room service, valet parking or frankly common courtesy. Hey I'm for a week I've got 3 rooms including the owners suite so even though I'm being treated poorly I'm gonna work it out .Should you drop 5 k to stay in this cripple shell of a resort , My guess is probably not but hey its San Diego it's nice and plenty to see just pick a resort that's not doing you a favor

We sat at the bar a couple of nights during our weekend stay at the hotel. Food quality was good and the restaurant/bar has a great view of the Marina. Nootzy however was the highlight of our visit (and the reason we came back for the second time) - great positive energy and service with smiles! Thanks Nootzy!

What an incredible experience! Dinner with the most amazing view. Food was great and service was even better! Shafiq was our server and he was top-notch. He anticipated our every need and was super friendly! He helped us with plans for after dinner and gave great food/wine suggestions. He made the experience exceptional

We make sure to stop here anytime we’re in San Diego, whether we’re staying at Kona Kai or not. Love the hotel but also love Vessel Restaurant + Bar. They have an excellent cocktail menu and they keep it fresh and current. Nootzy is usually at the bar with a smile and warm welcome. We look forward to seeing her! The menu changes occasionally and we really enjoyed the Tempura Portabello Mushrooms this time. The Ahi Tuna Tacos are another favorite. Beautiful views and fun environment, highly recommend!

Nice views, but food was mediocre at best. Reviews on Tripadvisor makes this restaurant seem like a place that should not be missed--in reality we should have missed it. Our experience left lots to be desired. Lobster in Lobster Carbonaro over cooked and rubbery, sauce had minimal flavor, Pork Chop was presented nicely but over cooked and dried out. Service was very slow (maybe they took extra time to overcook the food). Service ok but not great. Plus there was an added 6% surcharge that none of the four of us saw on the menu. Oh well, first world problems-- my advice--spend your money elsewhere there are some truly wonderful restaurants in San Diego.

Nootzy is awesome at the bar!!!!! She made our night and experience the very best!!!! Coming back to see her again!

Great bar vibe - delicious drinks and Nootzy is the absolute favorite - love hanging here! Atmosphere and the view are immaculate

The restaurant had great views of the water and would be nice for a romantic dinner. The food and drinks were excellent. Customer service was good.

Best chocolate martini by Nootzy ever!!! She was so sweet!! Loved this restaurant and hotel would highly reccomend to anyone!

Nootzy is a truly professional bartender—very knowledgeable and innovative. She’s an asset to Kona Kai.

I had the pleasure of enjoying my Mother's Day brunch at the Vessel Restaurant. The staff gave me and my family terrific Service. There was no wait time and since it was a buffet the food was already. The atmosphere was very enjoyable and relaxing. The Staff were efficient and very pleasant showing professionalism at all times. I would like to say thanks to Ryan, the manager, LaWayne, who check us in, JT, our waiter, and Nootsy, our bartender. Thank you all for a marvelous experience for Mother's Day!

We love visiting Kona Kai, the pool and beach are so picturesque and the bar service is always on point. Brett is always there with amazing service and inside the restaurant Nootzy is our favorite!

Stayed here a few days. Really enjoyed the outstanding service and attention literally by the entire staff at brunch and dinner. Special thanks to the restaurant manager Ryan and the bar manager Nootzy for a great experience with one of the best non-sweet espresso martinis. Rudy was extremely helpful throughout the stay. I will definitely be returning to his home away from home.

Delicious food. Allergy friendly options. Adrian, our server, was quick witted and attentive. Recommend to all looking for a relaxing coastal dining experience.

I’ve enjoyed many Old Fashioneds in my life, and the one Nootzy makes is by far the best. I highly recommend grabbing a drink at the Vessel with Nootzy. And for dessert… order a White Russian!

Angel, my waitress, Colin,as my server, and Nipsy, my bartender, all of them gave fantastic service.

I came in to Kona Kai and was referred by Kenia the director of wellness & spa. Had a massage, went to the pool & came to the restaurant for some drinks and food. Not knowing it was happy hour, I had their delicious chicken tacos, Parmesan fries & beer. My bartender was super sweet & attentive. Her name is Nootsy. She carried on a very good conversation and even asked for my name & what brought me in. I told her I’m celebrating my birthday. Nootsy, Kenia & my massage therapist Sarahi were amazing & made me feel SO SPECIAL on my birthday. Thank you ladies. I’ll definitely return!

We had a great time at Vessel, and Nootzy was very sweet and helpful and quick with our drinks and appetizers. She is great to talk to as well! The food and drinks were very good.

If you're looking for that perfect San Diego dining experience—where the food is heavenly, the drinks are dangerously good, and the staff makes you feel like you're the VIP of the evening—Vessel is your spot. Let’s start with the dream team: Marin, our server, was an absolute delight—warm, attentive, and intuitively knew when we needed something without hovering. Friendly doesn’t even begin to cover it; Marin made the whole evening flow like a breeze off the bay. And then there's Nootzy behind the bar, crafting chocolate martinis so creamy, rich, and decadent that they should honestly be illegal. I'm calling it now: best chocolate martinis in all of Southern California. If you only go for drinks, go for that. Now for the food: I had the pork chop—and I’m still dreaming about it. Perfectly cooked, juicy, and bathed in a cherry glaze that hits every sweet and savory note on the scale. Paired it with roasted carrots that had just the right amount of caramelization. Every bite was chef’s kiss. The ambiance is sophisticated yet chill, with killer waterfront views tucked away in Shelter Island. It’s like finding a secret you almost don’t want to share—but this one’s too good not to. Already planning to come back for brunch (and yes, more martinis). Vessel, if you’re reading this—give Marin and Nootzy a raise. They don’t just represent your brand; they elevate it. Five stars, no notes, just pure delicious vibes.

We love to be back here, our favorite place ever to be. We notice the change in management and we appreciate the commitment to the love and care the Noble house team has shown to us. We are happy to see our favorite people at Vessel. Nootzy and her flavorful paloma negroni. Thank you, Ryan Wolf for coming back! We missed your management style!

My husband and I frequent Vessel often for happy hour. Consistently good food (ahi tacos are delicious), tasty drinks and beautiful but casual atmosphere and views. Also a pretty decent brunch spot. The highlight of every visit is always seeing bartender Nootzy! She greets us with a smile every time, remembers our names and drink order and is a delight to see every time!

We have been to Vessel many times, being locals from Mission Hills, but the food and especially the service really are great. We had the clam chowder (which I have a high standard), truffle fries and the calamari. All of them were good portions, hot and totally delicious. That would have been good enough, especially considering how beautiful the view and venue at Vessel is but the service from our delightful bartender, Nootzy, is what makes us return again and again. She’s simply the best! She’s remembers your name, what your favorite drink is and the little details that you simply don’t see very often. Thank you, Nootzy and well of course be back again!

The scallops were delicious. Nootzy at the bar was very attentive and I loved conversing with her during my meal. I will be sure to come back and visit with friends and family.

Nootzy is the very best bar tender. She is sure an asset for Kona Kai!! Great drinks and so sweet!! 💕🎉💕

Beautiful environment, lovely staff, great food! You can’t ask for more than that! The views from the restaurant were amazing!

This place is amazing when nootzy is here, she is amazing and deserves the world, I would love to recommend my friends and family here

My fiance and I went to the Vessel for dinner and we absolutely fell in the love with the place. The views of Point Loma and the ambiance is amazing. Nootzy our bartender was very friendly, attentive and provided superb service. I would recommend the Vessel to anyone that has the opportunity to experience this place.

We had the absolute pleasure of being served by Nootzy. From the moment we sat down, she made us feel welcome with her warm smile and genuine energy. She created an atmosphere where you instantly feel at home. She never missed a beat, even during the busiest rush, and always managed to keep the vibe light, fun, and engaging. If you’re lucky enough to have Nootzy as your bartender, you’re in for top-notch drinks and even better company. She’s the kind of bartender who turns a night out into a memorable experience.

We love our breakfast, at least twice a week. Love, Dean, Florence or Jorge, and Jesus take great care in making our visit pleasant.

Located inside the Kona Kai Resort this is an amazing restaurant. Classy bar atmosphere with a great drink offering and friendly service! Our meal was delicious with generous portions and prepared to perfection. Looking forward to returning later this week while vacationing in San Diego.

Shafiq makes the experiment a great one every time. We have adjusted the times we go to when we think he’s working. Beautiful location. Good good.

Nootzy is THE BEST bartender! Don’t walk, RUN to Vessel. Try the breakfast or dinner. If you grab dinner, ask for Nootzy to make your drinks. She makes an amazing mojito or dirty martini. If you’re debating on what to eat… As for the food, we have had breakfast, Lunch, and dinner. Try the macadamia nut pancakes! The Club sandwich is the best in SD. Mahi mahi tacos are alright but my husband says they are as good as South Beach in OB. Chips, guac, and salsa are fantastic for locals (we are picky about anything Mexican food). We didn’t get to try the entire dinner menu but the fries and charcuterie are legit.

The food was delicious but every time we see Nootsie it is so enjoyable a time. it is truly a treat to be around her warm positivity, every time. She makes the bar here a very warm, social experience.

Went to the bar for some drinks and are bartender NOOTZY was awesome. Very friendly and made the best drinks! Any questions we had she was happy to answer and was very active always checking if we needed anything. Highly recommend!

I’ve had a lot of Old Fashioneds in my life, but Nootzy makes the best one. She is such an incredibly attentive and warm bartender… serving incredible drinks with a smile. We love it here!! Our new cocktail spot on Shelter Island.

Its great, the bartender was amazing and friendly! The bartender created my drink to perfection and recommended some new drinks to try

Service was outstanding and food was delicious! Would recommend brunch and Shafio was an awesome waiter!

Awesome happy hour and amazing food. Nootzy always treats everyone like family. Tuna tacos are to die for, and clam chowder is off the charts

Nootzy was fantastic and made amazing drinks. She was very knowledgeable of what to make me as I had no idea but it was fantastic.

My sister and I were here on a sister mini vacation...We had drinks in the bar the bar tender was great her name was NOOTZY , I found a drink online and asked her if she could make it and she said yes...The drink is called a Royal Smash.Nootzy is a great bar tender she made sure all guests at the bar top were taken care of in a timely manner.. NOOTZY deserves recognition for her hard work to give all guest what they ask for. She a very kind person she wasn't there on our last night but on her last night of work for her schedule she came around the bar and gave us farewell hugs...She was amazing...

I had an amazing dining experience at Vessel! The ocean-themed ambiance, complete with soothing sounds and beautiful décor, set the perfect mood for a relaxing meal. The seafood was fresh and expertly prepared—the oysters and lobster Mac n Cheese were especially delicious. What made the evening even more memorable was our server, Shafiq. He was attentive, knowledgeable, and truly went above and beyond to ensure we had a great experience. His recommendations were spot on, and his warm, professional service made the meal even more enjoyable. I highly recommend both the restaurant and Shafiq for an unforgettable night out!

We stayed here during the week and got to enjoy the breakfast and the dinner service at Vessel. Everyone who works there is very personable and attentive. We appreciated the extraordinary service team and the delicious food. My favorite part was the breakfast service, not only a full size fresh mouthwatering buffet between their pancakes and french toast, but the BEST pastries, fresh fruit, bacon, chicken apple sausage and more. Special thank you to TJ who made every breakfast morning the best! We appreciated his warm greetings in the morning and his patience in making sure each meal was a wonderful experience. Thank you TJ!

We had such a wonderful experience we booked a room for New Year’s Eve for a staycation! At this visit, our first, the food was delicious. Even something as simple as fish tacos and fish and chips. Tasty and creative. We ordered cocktails. Excellent! I recommend the Silent Kiss. If you like mezcal. Our server, Alberto, was friendly and just the right amount of attentive. The food, the service, the view and ambiance make Vessel the perfect place to relax and dine. Even if you are not on vacation.

Nootzy! She is the reason we went three times in a row! Our first night, we checked in late and wanted to get a relaxing drink. We couldn't have asked for a better experience. Love at first sight you might say... Nootzy was so friendly and makes the most amazing drinks. We had several over our stay... and each one was an experience. She remembered our names after night one. We also ate a few bites. Everything from the kitchen was excellent too. One night, we ordered the hamburger, which we were going to share and told them they not need to spilt for us, well...it came, cut in half and plated on two plates, with our own portion of fries, etc. It was a simple act, but felt so special. I can't recommend this place enough! Great views, people, drinks and food!

GOOD LORD Can you say HIDDEN GEM! Bartender Nootzy makes me want to start my own business just so I can employ her! She is AMAZING 🙌🏼 The food? EXCELLENT! Also the wine is PERFECTLY CHILLED . 10/10 would recommend.

Kona Kai restaurant for diner…sets of friends staying here. Nootzy at the bar/restaurant serves the best drinks. We were here last year and came back for our annual event.

This spot is great for having a nice meal after a long day. Got great service, my server was Nootzy!

Crab cake eggs Benny with scratch sauce as well as the smashed Avacado toast and both were amazing. Patio overlooking the marina on a warm Thursday morning, served by some excellent staff. Ticket times of about 9 minutes, drink refill’s consistently, clean location. Worth going out of your way for and if your staying at the hotel you are in luck.

Breakfast and Dinner must enjoy, ask for Noozy or Ryan to really receive the best service one could ask. The view’s incredible which can distract from the yummy food. Drinks are made by the exceptional Noozy and that chocolate martini, had to stop myself after three. Enjoyed breakfast, dinner and the Easter brunch. Clean, well mannered, and good selection of food. Make reservations, not to be missed.

It was our first time here at the bar and I had the best experience ever. The drinks were amazing! The staff was very friendly. Nootzy was our bartender and she was such a sweet heart! I love her energy and made us feel very welcomed. I would definitely recommend Vessel Bar to anyone ❤️

Nootzy is the best!! I will continue to come here for her exceptionally friendly and professional service.

Nootzy made amazing drinks!!! We came in for late night drinks and didn't know what to order and gave her a flavor idea and she made us both delicious drinks

This was our first time at Kona Kai for our honeymoon and the service at Vessel was BEYOND exceptional. We shared many meals here and could not recommend it more! Moses was the best for our first lunch and went above and beyond to make everything perfect! And then came the evening service from Nootzy. She was the most excellent bartender I’ve had to date. Her espresso martini is EXCEPTIONAL. I typically do not care for coffee flavored things & tried her martini and then had to have multiple! She was the sweetest & most attentive addition to our amazing experience at Vessel! We plan to return annually mainly because of the outstanding staff & experience here!! 12/10 would recommend!!!

We love the Vessel restaurant, the atmosphere and staff are amazing. The food is great and so happy with the new chef and love his selections, we loved the pork chop and Green Goddess salad with Salmon. We sat at the bar for food and drinks, Nootzy is just so sweet. She remembered us from another visit, she is very friendly, on top of it all and can handle the busy crowds.

Nootsy was so great!! The entire staff was wonderful and very attentive. Definitely coming back soon

Nootzy was our server, she was very attentive to our needs very friendly engaged in conversation it was a nice change of pace. Impeccable customer service will definitely come back and ask for her!

Fantastic dinner experience with great views. All the things we ordered, and we ordered a lot, were truly delicious, especially the ahi tuna tacos and the salmon. The sides of truffle fries, squash with candied pecans and brussell sprouts were well executed. The restaurant manager, Ryan, was very attentive and courteous and personally came to check on us. Overall a great experience.

Saw good reviews on Tripadvisor and was not disappointed. Our server Aaron was attentive without being intrusive and gave honest recommendations on out choices from the food and cocktail menu. Great food, great value , stunning restaurant

The setting outside is the best part for this restaurant. We did not have much shade and the chairs were a little low / the cushions a little dirty, but the atmosphere overall was pleasant / not crowded. The food was a let down, at least for lunch. I don't think we'll go back.

Bar is always a great atmosphere, food was great, Nootzy was very attentive and sweet! Loved the view, and the Craft Beer selection!

Great atmosphere and great service from Nootzy , our bartender. She was super sweet and quick sour with our drinks. We went close to closing time but they were still super accommodating. Had a great time at the bar.

We had the BEST birthday dinner & drinks with Bartender (Extraordinare!) Ms. Nootzy! She treated us so well and the food and drinks were delicious! Highly recommend! & don’t forget to ask for Nootzy❤️!

Came here for drinks with my Best Friend for her birthday during our stay at the resort and had an amazing experience. Nootzy was very sweet and accommodating! We had an amazing conversation with her and she always made sure we were taken care of! If you ever stop by hopefully she is working!

Nootzy is an awesome bartender, always provides excellent service and a friendly face. She is the only reason I'll stop in when I'm in the area. She is a true gem!

Bartender Nootzy was awesome. Professional, great drinks, and fun to chat with as traveling alone didn’t feel uncomfortable to dining alone.

Excellent drinks and service. Nootzy was very attentive and made us feel so welcomed. Highly recommend coming here for drinks!

We visited Vessel Restaurant and absolutely loved it. My friend had the scallops and I enjoyed the ribeye. Great priced and full of flavor, compliments to the chef! Our server, Shafiq was delightful and made it an unforgettable experience. His knowledge of the menu and great personality is what will bring us back.

Vessel Restaurant at the Kona Kai Resort is well worth a visit to the tip of Shelter Island. Stylish decor, a great circular bar, attentive service and classic coastal cuisine with a unique twist. Our fave were the maple glazed duck wings, fish and chips, and the fries with black garlic aioli! You can even take a walk after your meal, along the water across from the resort with amazing views of the San Diego skyline and out to the ocean!

We sat at the bar for a casual dinner and drinks and the view was beautiful! We had Nootzy and she was awesome. The service was fantastic

Vessel bar is a must! Nootzy is hands down the best bartender. She makes your customer experience her main priority. And, always greets you with a genuine smile.

Nootzy is an amazing server. She always has a smile and a kind word. We enjoy coming to Vessel when she is working as she makes the experience lovely.

This restaurant is worth it alone because you might end up with TJ as a server! He was personable, fun, memorable, so friendly, so kind to our family and son, and made our whole experience at this resort overwhelmingly positive. Like, our stay at the hotel was decent but having TJ as our server each morning for breakfast made it just so much better, elevated, and something we'll remember. Go here for the breakfast buffet and ask for TJ! Even though he's a Chargers fan - lol! It's still worth it. Thanks for everything TJ! We'll be back!

Amazing atmosphere and Nootzy is the best bartender around!!! The food was absolutely amazing 10/10 recommend for date night or even just drinks before going downtown

My boyfriend and I have enjoyed coming to the Vessel over the last year or so. A quick bite to eat and a cocktail in tow after a strenuous workweek. Although, sitting outside enjoying the amazing view of the bay is preferred by most customers, we enjoy sitting at the bar. The Bartender, Nootzy is a one of a kind. She’s quick with a drink, friendly and knows the menu like the back of her hand. Time and time again she has managed to impress us with a yummy cocktail and recommendation. It’s evident, Nootzy is a seasoned bartender. She has made each one of our visits an experience to remember.

We visited Shafiq at the Vessel, and had an amazing experience. My friend had the burger and she enjoyed it. I tried the scallops and enjoyed it very much. Beautiful views and great cocktails. We will be back!

We came here 2 mths ago and the bartender, Nootzy, delighted us. We are locals and wouldn’t think to come here. For 7 weeks, we’ve wanted to come back and see Nootzy. She’s the sweetest with the most adorable smile/voice. She’s been at her job for 28.5 years! She’s amazing, stop in and see her! You won’t be disappointed.

Nootsie is a star. Amazing service and experience! Dinner was just as we asked and quite tastey. The entolire staff is presenting their "A' game

I came in for a quick dinner at the bar, Nootzy took care of me, she was amazing! I had the pork chop and it was cooked to perfection! I will definitely be back☺️

Vessel Restaurant + Bar Located within Kona Kai resort was absolutely stunning. Immediptialy was captivated by the bar and attentive tender, Nootzy. As I looked around, I knew I would have to return for brunch, as the facility is wrapped with large floor to ceiling windows giving a beautiful view of the water. I briefly came in for some apps but found myself staying longer than expected, time flew and had one of the best times. The DRINKs, words cannot justice. Nootzy is innovative and craftily created curated drinks to my taste. Nailed it at her first recommendation. She listened and understands the need of the patron. I’m not one to leave reviews but this one was well worth the effort and time. THE PUBLIC should know a visit and service by her, un regrettable. Beautiful establishment for optics, just a great place to visit.

Always an amazing experience! I’m a marina tenant at Kona Kai Marina and look forward to attending Vessel every time I’m there. The highlight of the experience is always Nootzy, she’s an amazing staff member at Vessel that has been there over two decades. They update the menu periodically and it’s always top quality, I loved the scallops on this visit!

Nootzy servered us! Great time! Lovely view and great company. The food was also excellent and the fish taco were great!

The ahi tuna tacos were delicious and the perfect appetizer! The bar is stunning with beautiful views. Overall great time with a nice vibe!

My husband and our kids have been members of the Kona Kai for years. We decided to take a trip in for a glass of wine while our kids spent time in the jacuzzi, Nootzy was there to help us. She is always incredibly kind and helpful. She is attentive and always offers the best service to our kids, which is not always common in restaurants. Thanks to Nootzy for making the Kona Kai a wonderful home away from home!

Nootzy makes a mean espresso and chocolate martini! Great spot with a great view of the water! Fantastic service and food!

Amazing crew and restaurant, starting with the hostess with a sweet welcome. The food was delicious. The service was excellent!! Our amazing waiter Tajae, had the kindest smile and always made sure everything was good! The manager, Collin said hello and asked if everything was great. The bus person cleared out the table and was so kind too! I would definitely recommend this cute decor restaurant! Seating chairs were so comfortable! Loved everything about this place! The view was beautiful!

Nootzy is very cordial and makes THE very best Old Fashioned that I have ever experienced….,and that’s a lot. We’ll keep coming back for her friendly demeanor and impressive mixology skills

Shaffq was amazing! He is such a hard worker and definitely on his game! We can’t wait to have him as our server next time! Thx