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The Only San Diego Dining & Drinking Guide You’ll Ever Need
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Adam Szafranski
Yes, the rumors are true. We did scour every restaurant, bar and fast-casual dining service in the county to bring you the most extensive dining guide to San Diego you’ll ever need. We can’t say it was hard work. While we’ve always known America’s Finest to be home to some of our most favorite eats, San Diego’s dining scene seems to have taken off to soaring heights in recent years, with ambitious and innovative restaurants popping up every month. Now with acclaimed chefs and bartenders staking ground and upping the ante, San Diego has become a global culinary destination in its own right.
From cozy date night wine bars to bold restaurants you'll want to show all of your friends to local treasures you'll fall in love with, there's something for every diner out there. Happy eating!
Reporter: Erica Nichols | Restaurant: Jeune et Jolie
Gaslamp & East Village
What Downtown may lack in late-night scenes (San Diego is considerably quiet compared to most cities), it makes up for in urban distilleries, a strong cocktail scene and tacos (lots and lots of tacos). Home of the good group hangouts, you can find the perfect scene for your crew between Gaslamp and East Village.
Photo:Kimberly Motos
Coin-Op Game Room
Gaslamp, San Diego, California
It’s always ‘game on’ at this fun barcade in Gaslamp. Enjoy American eats and a solid selection of local beers and cocktails, then put on your game face and head to the arcade! All the classics are there, along with skeeball and basketball to practice your shot.
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You & Yours Distilling Co.learn more
This urban distillery specializes in gin and vodka, serving tasting menus and craft cocktails in a spacious, bright ambiance complete with comfy and modern touches. Have an event in mind? The space can accommodate up to 85 guests for your next birthday bash.
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Lola 55learn more
We were in love with Lola 55 the moment it graced our Instagram feed, long before we got a taste of the even more lovely eats of filet mignon tacos, ceviche tostaditas and their signature ice cream sandwiches. Step inside, you’ll see what we mean.
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profile Photo:Adam Szafranski
Storyhouse Spirits
East Village, San Diego, California
Equal parts restaurant, cocktail bar and distillery, Storyhouse Spirits created an easy, welcoming atmosphere for you and everyone in your crew to reconnect over craft provisions in East Village.
Photo:Dustin Bailey
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Puesto at The Headquarterslearn more
For a no-fail spot for great tacos, look no further than Puesto at The Headquarters by Seaport Village. You can’t go wrong with any of their choices—though we suggest trying their Taco of the Month and carnitas—and their spicy margarita packs an awesome punch.
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profile Photo:Kimberly Motos
Punch Bowl Social
East Village, San Diego, California
This trendy eat-drink-play emporium nails what most ‘eatertainment’ spots fail at: fun games and chef-driven dishes of shareables, burgers and more (hello, chicken and waffles). Karaoke, bowling, arcades—whatever your group goes gaga for, Punch Bowl has it.
Photo:Adam Jaime
The Lion's Share
Embarcadero, San Diego, California
This dimly-lit, intimate bar features eclectic art and a playful menu of game-focused eats and some of the best cocktails in the city. It’s not uncommon to spot a few of San Diego’s top bartenders sipping on a refreshment before or after their shifts.
Little Italy
San Diego’s epicenter of artistic touches and top-tier cuisine always has a new restaurant opening its doors—and it’s always a hit. Some of the city’s very best dining options are lined up on Little Italy’s main stretch of India Street, which attracts a wave of locals most days of the week.
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Photo:Nathan Mueller
Ironside Fish & Oyster
Little Italy, San Diego, California
There is no better place for oysters in San Diego than Ironside—the restaurant and bar offers fresh Kumiai and Sol Azul from Baja. But for those that prefer to pass on oysters, the rest of the menu is just as appetizing with fresh catch entrees and seafood small plates (don’t miss out on the chowder fries, they are a must).
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Morning Glory
Little Italy, San Diego, California
Pink accents, checkered floors, copper finishes—Morning Glory checks all of the boxes for a dreamy brunch ambiance. The menu is just as delightful, with global day-starters like chilaquiles with mole, pork belly with eggs and fried rice, and American classics like steak and eggs.
Photo:Pali Wine Co
Pali Wine Co
Little Italy, San Diego, California
Not only does Pali Wine serve up some delicious wine tastings from the Central Coast, it also offers visitors a great place to unwind on their cozy rooftop deck overlooking the hustle and bustle of Little Italy.
Photo:Kettner Exchange
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Kettner Exchangelearn more
Even more swoon-worthy than Kettner Exchange’s pretty—and tasty—cocktails is their cozy rooftop patio with great views and comfortable furnishings. For bigger groups, reserve one of the cabanas for brunch or dinner, which comes with its own wet bar.
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Nolita Halllearn more
This trendy food-and-drink emporium is ideal for your after-work or weekend hangout with friends. Munch on pizzas and zesty salads, sip on playful libations and let out your competitive side over a game of shuffleboard or Xbox tournament.
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profile Photo:Zack Benson
Craft & Commerce
Little Italy, San Diego, California
Boasting some of the best cocktails in the county, Craft & Commerce has been a staple since it first opened in 2010. Among taxidermy from the Natural History Museum and quote-sprawled booths, you and your friends can enjoy wood-fired dishes and the innovative drinks that made this spot an icon of the modern craft cocktail scene.
Photo:Kimberly Motos
Born & Raised
Little Italy, San Diego, California
San Diego was all abuzz last year with the grand opening of the highly-anticipated Born and Raised—it cost $6.5 million to design, after all. The modern steakhouse exceeded expectations with a totally posh dining experience complete with monogrammed plates and remarkable cuts of meat, overseen by esteemed Chef Jason McLeod.
Photo:Adam Szafranski
Carruth Cellars
Little Italy, San Diego, California
You can get a taste of Napa right here in San Diego at this urban winery. The team sources grapes from Central and Northern California, then transports them back here to finish the process for a taste of wine country within city limits.
Photo:Kimberly Motos
Bencotto
Little Italy, San Diego, California
We love Bencotto for many reasons, but number one is for their fresh, daily-made pastas. Take your pick from pappardelle, tagliatelle, fettuccine and more, then pair with their house pink pancetta sauce for total cuisine heaven.
Photo:Herb & Wood
Herb & Wood
Little Italy, San Diego, California
Though the interior design alone was enough to capture our hearts, famed chef Brian Malarkey’s Herb & Wood seals the deal with a delightful menu of wood-fired pizzas, fresh seafood plates and balanced pasta dishes.
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Photo:Crack Shack
Crack Shack
Little Italy, San Diego, California
Cool outdoor space, a solid Happy Hour and, oh yeah, really great fried chicken are the name of the game at Crack Shack. Order a sandwich or keep it classic with a 5- or 10-piece order of that salty, crispy good stuff.
Photo:Brooke Lark
Civico 1845
Little Italy, San Diego, California
At the heart of Little Italy sits this Italian family restaurant, which pays homage to traditional recipes with a twist and offers a completely vegan menu. In a modern rustic setting, start with the wildly flavorful caprese calda, dine on scratch-made pasta dishes and save room for limoncello.
Photo:Ballast Point
Ballast Point
Little Italy, San Diego, California
One of the first brewing companies to become an empire in San Diego, Ballast Point opened this Little Italy hangout as a one-stop for people to taste their award-winning brews and enjoy a chilled ambiance with share plates and tasty burgers.
Photo:Queenstown Public House
Queenstown Public House
Little Italy, San Diego, California
At Queenstown Public House you can enjoy New Zealand favorites in an inviting atmosphere. Nosh on popular bites like lamb skewers, fish and chips, or their cracked burger with a fried egg, and definitely come back for Happy Hour!
Hillcrest & Mission Hills
The diverse enclave of Hillcrest, and its close neighbor Million Hills, offers no shortage of exciting eateries. Whether it’s fine dining or an approachable, at-home feel you’re after, you’re bound to find it, and so much more, at these culinary standouts.
Photo:Kimberly Motos
Fort Oak
Mission Hills, San Diego, California
Creative, hip and globally-inspired, this Mission Hills restaurant offers a taste of San Diego dining at its finest. Produce-driven dishes are grilled over a wood fire to bring out ambitious, vibrant flavors that seem to jump off the plate.
Photo:Kimberly Motos
Trust
Hillcrest, San Diego, California
If the dreamy, urban-rustic decor wasn’t enough to win you over, Trust’s menu of seasonal, ingredient-driven dishes will do the trick. We hold the braised oxtail raviolini in a special place in our hearts.
Common Stock
Hillcrest, San Diego, California
In a bright, spacious setting complete with exposed beams, Common Stock highlights the signature dishes from all around the country. Nashville hot chicken? Check. Classic cheeseburger? Yep, that’s there too. New favorite dining option? Yes, to all of the above.
Bankers Hill
With easy access to Downtown and Balboa Park, the historic Bankers Hill already stole our hearts a long time ago. But the effortless mix of city staples and fresh-faced restaurants has us paying much more attention to this leafy neighborhood.
Photo:Il Dandy
Il Dandy
Bankers Hill, San Diego, California
The space alone is breathtaking, with marble tables, plush velvet chairs and brass finishings. Add in a Calabrian-style menu crafted by michelin-starred chefs and you’ll see why Il Dandy brings the cutting edge to San Diego dining.
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Photo:Donna Jean
Donna Jean
Bankers Hill, San Diego, California
Vegan dining doesn’t get much better than at Donna Jean. But don’t expect a menu full of health-conscious dishes here (there are options, of course). Instead, indulge in plant-based pizzas, mac and cheese, sandwiches and more.
Photo:Starlite
Starlite
Bankers Hill, San Diego, California
This stylish eatery wows with dreamy hanging starlights over the bar and elegant, delicious dishes of sustainably-sourced ingredients. Be sure to check out their diverse menu of spirit-forward drinks.
Photo:Singler Photography
Cucina Urbana
Bankers Hill, San Diego, California
Head to Cucina Urbana for an unexpected twist on pasta, pizza and other mainstream Italian items in a tasteful, rustic atmosphere. Here, pastas are tossed with hen egg and topped with bonito flakes; order them family-style with a bottle of vino!
Photo:Azuki Sushi
Azuki Sushi
Bankers Hill, San Diego, California
Artfully presented rolls and an extensive sake selection are Azuki Sushi’s calling card. The rest of the menu is just as good with Hokkaido scallops, uni two ways and spicy pon hama.
Photo:John Durant
Bankers Hill Restaurant + Bar
Bankers Hill, San Diego, California
We love Bankers Hill Restaurant for a number of reasons, but the sentiment is even stronger during their Happy Hour, where you can munch on a majority of their selections (sliders, pulled pork sandwiches, truffle fries) for under six dollars each.
Barrio Star
Bankers Hill, San Diego, California
This hip cantina puts a modern spin on classic, hearty Mexican dishes in a trendy, colorful atmosphere. Don’t miss out on their great Taco Tuesday deals and always, always order a margarita.
North & South Park
North Park and South Park may each have distinct identities, but they both share the same buzz for neighborhood-focused eateries and bars. In North Park, you’ll find industrial-chic breweries and upscale concepts. In South Park, you’ll experience the ‘small town’ essence that has attracted so many chefs and restauranteurs to open up shop.
Photo:Studio Maha
Kindred
South Park, San Diego, California
Craft cocktails, an all-vegan menu, a pretty in pink bar—these are a few of our favorite Kindred things. The South Park restaurant has become a local gathering spot thanks to its whimsical ambiance (complete with heavy-metal music because why not?) and next-level libations.
Photo:Kimberly Motos
Underbelly
South Park, San Diego, California
Expect generous ramen servings and a modern indoor-mostly outdoor space at the North Park location of this local favorite. In the evening, stick around for the California yakitori, a selection of skewered bites grilled over oak charcoal.
Photo:Nathan Mueller
Officine Buona Forchetta
South Park, San Diego, California
We’ll save you time—you won’t find better pizza in San Diego than Buona Forchetta’s Neapolitan pizzas. The South Park flagship Officine (and the local franchise’s other two locations) serves wood-fired pies and traditional Italian eats, all cooked to perfection for destination-feels dining.
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Photo:Adam Szafranski
Louisiana Purchase
North Park, San Diego, California
Get a taste of the Big Easy at this new creole and cajun restaurant in North Park. All the classics are there (see: gumbo, po’ boys, crawfish etouffee), plus some more contemporary nods like alligator andouille cheesecake and the Dooky Chase, honoring the Queen of Creole Cooking herself, Leah Chase.
Photo:One Door North
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One Door Northlearn more
At One Door North, you’ll experience garden-to-table dining in a nature-themed contemporary space—safari tents included. No matter when you visit, the eats are beautifully presented and rich in flavor, but we especially love them for their Happy Hour menu!
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Tribute Pizza
North Park, San Diego, California
Tribute Pizza has been locally beloved since its humble beginnings as a one-man shop. Now well into its restaurant days, this popular pizzeria still masters the art of their globally-inspired neo-Neapolitan pies in a bright, modern and welcoming setting.
Photo:URBN
URBN
North Park, San Diego, California
The industrial bar specializes in New Haven-style pizzas—coal-fired, thin-crusted, Neapolitan goodness. Finish it off with a local draught beer or craft cocktail and consider your hunt for the perfect North Park hangout complete.
Photo:Paloma A.
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Waypoint Publiclearn more
This family-friendly hangout is everything you want in a stylish neighborhood spot. Explore their hefty list of draft beer and elevated California eats while the little ones run off energy in the play area.
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Fernside
South Park, San Diego, California
Stylish digs and spirit-focused libations are what Fernside, South Park’s new neighborhood bar, is all about. Unwind with friends over plates of wings, cheese boards and more.
Photo:Chelsea Coleman
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The Roselearn more
South Park’s cute and cozy neighborhood wine bar features refreshing brunch and Happy Hour bites to pair with their sprawling natural wine selections. For your next dinner party, be sure to check out their adjacent venue space, Sidebar—it is one of our favorites!
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The Smoking Goat
South Park, San Diego, California
The Smoking Goat offers up savory, upscale French dining and gives it a North Park twist with urban farmhouse decor and some of the city’s best cocktails. Run by Exec Chef and Owner Fred Piehl, the restaurant presents French cuisine in a familiar, inviting way.
University Heights
Quiet University Heights has always been a pillar for international fare, but in recent years the neighborhood has opened its arms to design-driven cocktail bars and eateries that give this enclave its own unique voice.
Photo:Nathan Mueller
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Madison on Parklearn more
One step inside Madison and you’ll understand why the cedar-walled design is award-winning. Once you recover (take your time), swoon over their classic cocktails and menu of modern Mediterranean bites.
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Photo:Kimberly Motos
Kairoa Brewing Company
University Heights, San Diego, California
Off Park, this new brewpub sets the standard for New Zealand fare. Nosh on spiced lamb tacos, fish and chips and lobster skewers while exploring their New Zealand draft beer selections. Also, did we mention the rooftop bar? We’ll save you a seat.
Photo:Kimberly Motos
Small Bar & Grill
University Heights, San Diego, California
Newly reopened from a recent rehaul, this beloved neighborhood hangout feels equal parts brand new and just like home. The jukebox and arch focal points still remain, but the restaurant added a fresh touch to the New American menu with seafood options, elevated snacks and zesty cocktails from Polite Provisions partner Frank McGrath.
Photo:Ben Yang
Park & Rec
University Heights, San Diego, California
When the weather’s nice (and let’s face it, when isn’t it here?!) Park & Rec will be calling your name. The multi-house bar offers plenty of outdoor space, lots of games and a cocktail menu we dream about all in its own picture-perfect world.
Point Loma
With Liberty Station under its wing and a prime spot along the bay, it’s no wonder why Point Loma has long been one of San Diego’s most cuisine-centered neighborhoods. Great seafood, chef-driven concepts and guilty pleasures, you can find it all on this pretty peninsula.
Photo:Adam Szafranski
El Jardín
Liberty Station, San Diego, California
Top Chef contestant Claudette Zepeda created this Liberty Station restaurant to pay homage to the regional Mexican cuisine of her childhood. Under a ceiling of umbrella-shaped blue light fixtures, explore Zepeda's unmatched menu of tlacoyo, an iconic tamale-like street snack, aguachile and pozole rojo.
Photo:Adam Szafranski
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Royalelearn more
We're all familiar with farm-to-table, but at Royale it's 'farm-to-shaker' – all cocktail ingredients come from their family farm, Nopalito. The vibrant midcentury modern diner is washed in cool tones with plenty of little corners to tuck into while enjoying your burger and cocktail.
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Charles + Dinorahlearn more
At the Pearl Hotel, Charles + Dinorah fuses modern eats with nods to mid-century modern ambiance in honor of the hotel’s original owners. You’ll find a little bit of everything here (grits, kushiyaki and everything in between), expertly prepared with a gourmet touch to let the flavors do all the talking.
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profile Photo:Stacey Keck
Liberty Public Market
Liberty Station, San Diego, California
Seven days a week you can eat your way through some of San Diego’s best food offerings at this public market in Liberty Station. Find local favorites like Venissimo Cheese, RakiRaki and so much more. Seriously, so much more—come hungry!
Photo:Kimberly Motos
Cesarina
Point Loma, San Diego, California
The Point Loma Italian Trattoria brings a fresh take to San Diego’s Italian restaurant scene. The glass-enclosed pasta factory steals the show, creating the foundation for Cesarina’s outstanding pasta dishes. To end on a sweet note, the tiramisu is not to be missed!
Photo:Adam Szafranski
Soda & Swine
Liberty Station, San Diego, California
The second location of the North Park flagship, Soda & Swine in Liberty Station is just as good with even more space to bring the group to eat, drink and hang. Make your meatball selections, pick your sauce and grab one of their old-fashioned sodas—then enjoy the eatery’s foosball tables and outdoor lounge areas.
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Photo:Auda & Auda Photography
Coasterra
Point Loma, San Diego, California
The view of all views, Coasterra’s expansive deck overlooks the bay and downtown area for prime sunset dining. To eat, look to their Mexican-inspired seafood dishes like ceviche to share and rainbow trout a la pancha. For libations, their margarita selection is not to be missed.
Pacific & Ocean Beach
In most coastal cities, people don’t expect much of the surfer communities that hug the beach in terms of dining. But San Diego isn’t like most coastal cities, and neighborhoods like Pacific Beach and Ocean Beach are riddled with long-running restaurants serving out some of the city’s best.
Photo:Alen Lin
The Grass Skirt
Pacific Beach, San Diego, California
This laidback tiki hangout is great for creative small plates of eggplant stir fry and lamb dan dan noodles, and fun rum-based cocktails. You can also sign up for their rum club for exclusive rum tastings and discounted specials.
Photo:Riccardo Bergamini
Sushi Ota
Pacific Beach, San Diego, California
Master Ota’s famous sushi bar always ranks in the country’s very best and serves as the learning ground for San Diego’s new batch of sushi masters. Be sure to make reservations ahead of time to ensure seating, Sushi Ota is always packed for its omakase tastings and premium nigiri.
Photo:Charles Koh
OB Noodle House
Ocean Beach, San Diego, California
In the heart of Ocean Beach, OB Noodle House has been a San Diego go-to for years. In a lovably no-frills setting, you’ll see why their large bowls of pho, pork belly tacos and spicy garlic wings landed them a spot on “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.”
La Jolla
The only thing that could take you away from the stunning ocean views of this posh coastal village is great food. Thankfully, La Jolla delivers ten-fold with cozy breakfast spots, top-tier sushi and so much more.
Photo:Kimberly Motos
Din Tai Fung
UTC, La Jolla, California
The global sensation touched down at UTC in 2018 and has been able to live up to the hype and keep up with demand without sacrificing the quality they’re known for. Order, and subsequently devour, a few of each from their soup and steamed dumpling selections to taste what all the fuss is about!
Photo:Kimberly Motos
Raised by Wolves
UTC, La Jolla, California
Elegant speakeasies situated across from mall giants (i.e. the Apple store) is just the M-O of UTC these days, and we are here for it. The cocktails-only lounge is truly an experience like no other, complete with a revolving hidden door, a grand chandelier over the bar and a novella-sized menu of innovative cocktails.
Photo:Kimberly Motos
Great Maple
UTC, La Jolla, California
We have three words for you: maple bacon doughnuts. But the reigning king of San Diego brunch also serves a lovely evening experience for those looking for seasonal dinner entrees of beef bourguinon, lamb ragu and salted caramel pork ribs. Yes, salted caramel.
Photo:Kimberly Motos
Himitsu
La Jolla, California
San Diego is no stranger to great sushi, but Himitsu raised the bar to a whole new level, thanks to Sushi Ota alum Mitsu Aihara. The sushi pro crafted omakase, sashimi and nigiri selections rooted in tradition that will change the way you think about modern-day sushi.
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Photo:George's at The Cove
George's at The Cove
La Jolla, California
A quintessential experience for elevated coastal cuisine, George’s makes a statement with delicious eats and an unbeatable view overlooking the cove. The multi-floor establishment offers lower-level dining, mid-level cocktails and a rooftop terrace for your choice of true California living.
Photo:Kimberly Motos
Prepkitchen
La Jolla, California
The cozy, casual eatery puts an emphasis on comfort-food cuisine, prepared with locally-sourced ingredients. Stop in for modern selections inspired by what’s in season, and complete your meal with a glass of wine to pair!
Pictured: Prep Kitchen San Marcos
Pictured: Prep Kitchen San Marcos
Photo:The Cottage
The Cottage
La Jolla, California
A long-time frontrunner in the San Diego breakfast scene, The Cottage remains popular due to its farm-driven brunch and lunch items, housed inside a quaint cottage complete with a white picket fence. It’s everything you hope for when starting your morning seaside.
Clairemont & Kearny Mesa
If you haven’t dined in the Clairemont/Kearny Mesa area, you haven’t been paying attention! Lined with mom ‘n’ pop shops churning out next-level asian cuisine, these central San Diego neighborhoods offer hidden gems still fairly under the radar—but not for long!
Photo:Kimberly Motos
Realm of the 52 Remedies
Kearny Mesa, San Diego, California
A hidden bar concept housed inside Common Theory, 52 Remedies transports its visitors into an entirely new world. The art of crafting cocktails takes center stage, supported by seasonal bar eats in an opulent, art-focused lounge setting.
Photo:Hidden Fish
Hidden Fish
Kearny Mesa, San Diego, California
San Diego’s first omakase destination is an unparalleled experience from start to finish. In the 13-seater space, select a 50 or 90-minute omakase of top-level seafood expertly prepared from seasoned sushi chefs. No California rolls here, let the experts make the selections!
Photo:Kae Ng
RakiRaki
Kearny Mesa, San Diego, California
Rakiraki offers both traditional and creative chef-driven ramen in each of their three locations. The supporting menu options are just as good, with massive sushi rolls and plump gyoza. Pro Tip: Check their Yelp! Waitlist beforehand, this location is always busy!
Photo:Tajima
Tajima
Kearny Mesa, San Diego, California
It’s hard to go wrong with any choice at the original location of this local Ramen empire, which now houses six restaurants in southern California. Definitely get an order of the takoyaki to share, then go straight for the goods with one of their signature ramen bowls—the spicy sesame ramen is great when you’re looking for an extra kick.
Photo:Menya Ultra
Menya Ultra
Kearny Mesa, San Diego, California
Menya Ultra is an award-winning ramen shop from Japan that landed in Kearny Mesa in 2017 with much of the same praise. Now one of San Diego’s top ramen destinations, Menya is a must and their tonkotsu ramen, a must-order...weekly.
Photo:Epicurrence
Sipz
Clairemont, San Diego, California
The long-time Clairemont staple serves vegetarian-fusion fare with Asian influences. For starters, order their “chicken” dumplings, then choose from their variety of filling noodle bowls for the main course. Plus, keep a look out for their new La Jolla spot coming soon!
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Photo:Miguel Maldonado
Yakyudori Yakitori
Kearny Mesa, San Diego, California
Specializing in yakitori, a style of skewered chicken popular in Japanese street food, Yakyudori serves up the county’s best in a simple, modern environment. Also, check out their sake and soju offerings to complete your meal.
Photo:Yuxiang Zhang
China Max
Kearny Mesa, San Diego, California
Unpopular opinion: some of the best dim sum isn’t served on food carts. We know, we know! But China Max proves us right with all of your dim sum must-haves, hand-delivered fresh and hot. No more flagging down the shrimp shumai cart from across the room! Pro Tip: Order the calamari and thank us later!
Miramar & Sorrento Valley
Once thought to be just a part of a daily commute, the Miramar and Sorrento Valley area has blossomed into its very own destination ‘hood, thanks to modern coffee shops and quite a few killer breweries and beer gardens in the area.
Photo:Kimberly Motos
Gravity Heights
Sorrento Valley, San Diego, California
In the heart of Sorrento Valley, Gravity Heights serves as a cool respite from the biotech hustle and bustle of the area. With a spacious, bright backdrop (hanging plants included), the brewery/beer garden puts an emphasis on smart beer and food pairings to bring out the best in each.
Photo:Cutwater Spirits
Cutwater Spirits
Miramar, San Diego, California
Though their canned cocktails have brought this distilling company much of their success (for good reason), the Miramar hangout also has a strong menu to back it up. Here you’ll find small plates of bourbon barrel mussels, entrees of pork ramen and vegan curry, and rum cake for the sweet tooths of the group.
Photo:Ballast Point Brewing
Ballast Point Brewing
Miramar, San Diego, California
The company’s largest brewery and restaurant on the West Coast, Ballast Point’s Miramar spot is not to be missed. Stop in for a tour of the brewery, then unwind in their expansive indoor/outdoor space with a cold one in hand.
Del Mar & Solana Beach
Though close in proximity, Del Mar and Solana Beach strike different chords. Where Del Mar is upscale and elegant, Solana Beach is laid-back and homey. What they both offer? Top-notch dining that rings true to the place it calls home.
Photo:Addison
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Addisonlearn more
This elegant fine dining restaurant, located in Fairmont Grand Del Mar makes a statement with elevated French cuisine served in a grand European setting. Make your wine selections from the cellar, situated in the center of the room, for perfect pairings to coincide with your meal. Plan accordingly—this is the date night spot!
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Cucina Enoteca
Del Mar, California
Like the other two San Diego-based Cucina restaurants, Cucina Enoteca is part retail wine shop, part restaurant. For dinner, find from-scratch selections focusing on traditional Italian cuisine. Mangia!
Photo:Williams Pearls
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Viewpoint Brewing Co.learn more
A spacious indoor-outdoor hangout that overlooks the San Dieguito Lagoon, Viewpoint is everything a Del Mar brewery should be—it is the neighborhood’s first, after all. Check out the brewery’s 20 taps, some house-brewed and some selected from small distribution breweries, then kick back and stay awhile.
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Encinitas & Leucadia
Though just situated off the Coast Highway, Encinitas and Leucadia offer so much more than the casual seafood stops you’d expect. Those are there aplenty. But so are a handful of beloved restaurants with refreshing concepts, strong neighborhood roots and great drink menus to go hand-in-hand with even better food.
Photo:Kimberly Motos
Valentina
Leucadia, Encinitas, California
Valentina serves flavorful entrees inspired by the signature dishes that define cuisine cultures all over the globe. France, Mexico, Italy—the gang’s all here in Chef Caballo’s steak and frites, cochinita pibil and pesto gnocchi. For the loyal fans of previous tenant Moto Deli, you can still find their popular sandwiches on the lunch menu.
Photo:Taco Stand
Taco Stand
Encinitas, California
The Encinitas location of this top ranking taco shop is just as good as its flagship in La Jolla. Handmade corn tortillas, juicy and tender meats and cilantro salsa abound! ¡Vamanos!
Photo:Kimberly Motos
Death by Tequila
Encinitas, California
You can get a taste of Baja without having to cross border lines at Death By Tequila. Yes, there are tacos, but the real stars are their small plates of Spanish octopus, elote tostadas and fresh ceviche. And to match their picture-perfect menu? A killer cocktail list.
Photo:Kimberly Motos
Modern Times
Encinitas, California
A true neighborhood spot, Modern Times’ inviting yet industrial space is always packed, and for good reason! Taste test your way through their selection of over 30 taps of tasty beer, special guest beers and delicious plant-based dishes.
Photo:Kimberly Motos
Birdseye Kitchen
Leucadia, Encinitas, California
Nosh on family-style dishes from Thai, Lao and Vietnamese cultures in the modern, refreshing space at Birdseye Kitchen. They let the flavors do the talking here, with daily-made curry and locally-sourced, grass-fed, organic products.
Photo:Priority Public House
Priority Public House
Leucadia, Encinitas, California
It’s always a good time to visit this Encinitas hangout. Brunch, Happy Hour, Dinner—each menu is inventive and insanely good. Keep an eye out for their live music lineups on Sundays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays!
Carlsbad
Once a sleepy suburb, Carlsbad is now finally having its culinary moment thanks to an abundance of new design and menu-driven restaurants sprouting up over the past few years. Upscale, innovative and sourced locally, these eateries capture Carlsbad’s easy Californian identity.
Photo:Nathan Mueller
Jeune et Jolie
Carlsbad, California
It’s love at first sight at Jeune et Jolie (thanks to LA-based Bells + Whistles). But the pink hued-magic doesn’t stop there. Executive Chef Andrew Bachelier’s new wave French menu of frog legs and coquille in vin jaune is a love affair to last a lifetime.
Photo:Nathan Mueller
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Campfirelearn more
Consider the menu at this local favorite the official cuisine of glamping. The team that brought us Craft & Commerce (and more recently Jeune et Jolie), headed straight for nature when thinking up Campfire. The result is an effortless blend of gourmet dining and woodsy unwinding, with most of the dishes cooked over an open flame.
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Photo:Kimberly Motos
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With an impressive cocktail menu and evening-only hours, Clara sparked a rebirth of Carlsbad at night. Lounge in the restaurant’s intimate, feminine interior while enjoying their fresh, market-driven dishes for an evening that is effortlessly coastal.
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Pokewan
Carlsbad, California
Thick in the midst of the San Diego poke craze, it can be difficult to find the great among the not-so-great poke shops. That’s why we’re saving you the trouble and telling you to go straight to Pokewan. You can build your own or select one of their signature bowls; we suggest the Hotty Hotty for a kick. Either way, you’ll be getting a taste of Hawaii in every bite.
Photo:Kimberly Motos
Draft Republic
Carlsbad, California
The long-time La Jolla favorite found its Carlsbad digs a couple years ago and hasn’t stopped since. Come for modern bar food, best at Happy Hour when appetizers are only $7 each, great beer and a kids menu if you’re visiting with little ones.
Oceanside
If there’s any beachside neighbor that’s gotten their “come up” in the last few years, it’s Oceanside. Here you’ll find eateries and breweries created by locals with diverse flavors that showcase just how global the coastal town has become.
Photo:Jalisco Cantina
Jalisco Cantina
Oceanside, California
This modern locale brings two of our favorite things together (tacos and tequila) in a stylish space with rustic elements. Order tequila or mezcal flights to go along with barbacoa or yellowtail tacos for a contemporary take on Mexican cuisine.
Photo:Kimberly Motos
Wrench & Rodent
Oceanside, California
Chef and Owner Davin Waite could be considered one of the most sustainable sushi chefs in the county, thanks to his mission and passion for using every part of the animal. That kind of mindset brings wildly creative dishes to Wrench & Rodent’s menu, along with an omakase option that allows you to experience sushi the chef’s way.
Photo:Kimberly Motos
Dija Mara
Oceanside, California
This upscale, industrial-chic establishment brings Indonesian flavors with a Western twist to its Oceanside neighborhood. Order the Nasi Goreng, with pork belly, confit chicken and shrimp served over a bed of fried rice and topped with an egg. Yum!
Local Tap House
Oceanside, California
As the name suggests, Local Tap House has an impressive selection of local beers and ciders from the San Diego area. On their modern American menu, you’ll find elevated bar food like their popular deviled eggs and truffle butter pretzel, served with a smoked gouda gravy.
Photo:Kimberly Motos
Tambo Cafe
Oceanside, California
Empanadas, sandwiches, sweets—Tambo’s Peruvian selections are inspired by the culture’s tradition of “lonche,” a casual meal for when it’s too late for lunch, but too early for dinner. We hold a soft spot in our hearts for the empanada de manzana, with apple, cinnamon and manjarblanco inside.
Photo:Evan Dvorkin
Bagby Beer Co.
Oceanside, California
True to the quintessential Oceanside experience, at Bagby you can bring your friends, kids (and pups) to soak up the ocean views with a cold brew in hand. Munch on bites from their full-scratch menu, try a few beers from their extensive list and stay for their trivia nights on Tuesdays!
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The Privateer
Oceanside, California
The family-owned restaurant has been a long-time favorite in Oceanside, serving gourmet, coal-fired Neapolitan pizzas with classic and not-so-classic toppings (see: white clam sauce). Recently, they opened the doors next store to the Privateer Marketplace, a wine-bar extension with vendors from around the county.
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