H CASA GUADALAJARA Mexican/Southwestern. Find traditional Mexican cuisine in a hacienda-style setting at this Old Town favorite not far from historic attractions and shopping. The menu features regional specialties such as enchiladas and burritos, as well as a wide selection of seafood and breakfast options (till 2 p.m. daily). Dine indoors or on the shaded patio in the lush courtyard garden. Pitchers of frosty margaritas, charming mariachis and festive décor complete the experience. B (Sa-Su); L, D (daily). 4105 Taylor St., Old Town, 619.295.5111, casaguadalajara.com
CHART HOUSE American. From coast to coast, the Chart House is synonymous with exceptional waterfront dining. At the Cardiff-by-the-Sea location, enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean— sliding glass doors open to bring crashing waves and spectacular sunsets that much closer. The menu includes Chart House standards such as the delectable macadamia-crusted mahi or Prime rib, for example—as well as dishes that take advantage of local seafood offerings and regional flavors. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). 2588 S. Coast Highway 101, Cardiff, 760.436.4044, chart-house.com
H CASA SOL Y MAR Mexican/Southwestern. This charming eatery celebrates the warmth and beauty of Mexico via colorful folk art, authentic decor and roaming mariachis ready to serenade your table. Whether dining indoors or alfresco on the patio, feast upon traditional dishes such as enchiladas, quesadillas and tacos, as well as inventive small plates including the Ceviche Del Mar and Queso Fundido, and quench your thirst with a giant, frosty margarita. Breakfast menu options served till 2 p.m. daily. L, D (daily). 12865 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.792.4100, casasolymar.com
COASTERRA Mexican. The Cohn Restaurant Group’s bayfront Mexican restaurant/lounge features a massive waterfront dining deck offering unrivaled panoramas of San Diego Bay and the downtown skyline. The menu of regional Mexican cuisine highlights local, seasonal ingredients, from ahi tuna tostadas and grilled lobster and jumbo prawns, to guacamole prepared tableside and enchiladas. An agave-focused cocktail menu includes more than 100 tequilas and a dozen mezcal infusions. Don’t miss happy hour (M-F, 3:30-5:30 p.m.) where signature cocktails and appetizers are $7 each. L, D (daily). 880 Harbor Island Drive, Harbor Island, 619.814.1300, cohnrestaurants.com/coasterra
CATANIA COASTAL ITALIAN Italian. With authentic coastal Italian fare and 180-degree ocean views, this spot is a hit in the heart of La Jolla. From the all-Italian wine list and craft Italian beer program, to the wood-burning oven and quaint ambiance, the focus on authenticity here is evident and downright charming. The menu features salads, small plates, woodfired pizzas with seasonal ingredients, pastas and entrees like wholeroasted branzino. Save room for the semifreddo for dessert—chased with a glass of house-made amaretto liqueur. L, D (daily). 7863 Girard Ave., #301, La Jolla, 858.551.5105, cataniasd.com
THE CORK AND CRAFT American. Taking a refined spin on classic American pub grub, this inland North County nugget is a restaurant, winery and brewery all in one. Sample beer and wine from around the world inside its 41-tap tasting room, then head to the earthymod restaurant to dine. Seasonally rotating entrees range from roasted salmon and Jidori chicken to Colorado lamb and pork loin. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Su), Br (Su). 16990 Via Tazon, Rancho Bernardo, 858.618.2463, thecorkandcraft.com
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