WHERE San Diego Magazine Winter 2014

WINTER 2014 WHERESD.COM

San Diego

®

‘ANCHORMAN 2’ DROPS ANCHOR IN S.D. STAND-UP COMEDY GETS THE LAST LAUGH TWO LANDMARK CITY PROPERTIES BECOME RETAIL HAVENS

the

HUNGER GAMES THE HUNT FOR THE LATEST AND GREATEST IN SAN DIEGO DINING

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where San Diego Winter 2014 the guide 48 DINING Restaurants by cuisine and neighborhood

64 ENTERTAINMENT Festivals, performing arts and sports

68 ATTRACTIONS + MUSEUMS Landmarks, theme parks and exhibitions

71 SHOPPING The best retail destinations

72 NIGHTLIFE Hot clubs, lounges and cocktail bars

74 TOURS + TRANSPORT

Getting out, getting around

76 MAPS

Navigate the county

where now 10 Food+Drink Bang Bang opens with, well, a bang; Cannonball makes a splash; and Fogo de Chão is a carnivore’s delight.

14 Entertainment Pirates invade Balboa Park; San Diego Opera hits a high note; and the city’s stand-up comedy scene heats up.

12 Insider’s Guide San Diego welcomes back Ron Burgundy with Anchorman 2-themed cocktails and a spotlight on SeaWorld.

16 Hot Attractions The Headquarters at Seaport District opens to acclaim; the San Diego Airport receives its biggest makeover in history.

features 18 The Hunger Games The hunt for the latest and greatest in San Diego’s dining scene—from flourish- ing foodie districts to fresh faces in the kitchen to food trends that (thankfully) refuse to fade. BY SARAH DAOUST

44 Tee Time

Dial in your golf game with our guide to the greens, featuring San Diego’s most scenic—and challenging—courses.

city tours

28 30 32 34 36 38 40

Downtown La Jolla Beach Cities Uptown North Coast Old Town Balboa Park

ALSO INSIDE 4 A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR 9 HOT DATES 80 30 THINGS WE LOVE

ON THE COVER Take a mouthwatering tour of San Diego’s new restaurants, dining trends and delicious dishes—such as the fresh vegetable plate (pictured) at Avant, North County’s new dining den inside Rancho Bernardo Inn—all from an insider’s perspective. See p. 18-26.

CONNECT WITH US ONLINE

wheresd.com Get the city buzz from WHERE editors worldwide online and on your smartphone.

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Welcome

24% 4 famous attractions

A note from the editor

SHARING IS CARING Growing up the second youngest of seven children, I am accustomed to having to share—space in my household was cramped to say the least.

I shared a bedroom with my younger sister Christina, whom I mercilessly tortured when I wanted privacy. I shared the same bathroom with my brother and five sisters; this guaranteed frantic

3-Day Park Hopper® to Disneyland® Park and Disney California Adventure® Park

school mornings that fueled World War III-inducing fights involving some serious hair-pulling. (My brother would seek revenge on the rest of us by using up all the hot water with his infamous 30-minute showers.) My sisters and I shared clothes, jewelry, makeup and these now-extinct round discs that held music, commonly called “CDs.” Where we didn’t share was at the dinner table. While our parents kept our fridge well stocked, the appetites

Universal Studios HollywoodSM

of ravenous teenagers know no bounds. In fact, I once ate my weight in mini bagel pizzas, just because I could. During my mom’s famous Sunday brisket dinners, it was every pimple-pocked teenager for himself or herself.

My siblings and I would eye each other’s plates, just waiting for someone to make a wrong move. You could lose an eye or a hand if you dared to go after the last piece of garlic bread. As an adult, I’ve learned to enjoy sharing both my food and my findings about food—and not just because I no longer have the metabolism of a bagel-pizza-pounding teenager.

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“The Hunger Games” (see p. 18) is based not so much on the movie blockbuster with the same name, but more so on my lifelong hunt for really, really good food. San Diego, as usual, didn’t let me down. I searched far and wide, from North County to La Jolla to downtown, from highbrow dining to hidden gems—all in the line of duty. The best part of my job? It’s even share my current favorite dessert, the pecan pie from Magnolia

Prices and programs subject to change.

(see p. 24). Well, maybe. —SARAH DAOUST

TIM KING

never done. But I love sharing my discoveries with you as I go along. I’ll

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where

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Hot Dates Winter 2014

WHAT’S SIZZLING IN SECONDS FLAT

THROUGH JAN. 5 ICE SKATING Celebrate the holiday season San Diego-style with Skating by the Sea, a temporary outdoor ice-skating rink on the Hotel del Coronado’s Windsor Lawn overlooking the ocean. p. 64 DEC. 6-7 DECEMBER NIGHTS Now in its 36th year as one of the top holiday festivals in the country, Balboa Park’s biggest event ushers in the holiday season with park-wide celebrations, free entry to select museums, dance and music performances, food tastings, and plenty of twinkling lights. p. 64 DEC. 13-22 THE NUTCRACKER Channel your inner Sugar Plum Fairy with a special staging of the timeless Christmas classic presented by the City Ballet of San Diego at the historic Spreckels Theatre downtown, complete with live music performed by the City Ballet Orchestra. p. 64 JAN. 19-24 SAN DIEGO RESTAURANT WEEK Take advantage of the $20, $30 and $40 prix-fixe, threecourse dinner menus (plus discounted lunch menus) offered at more than 180 participating restaurants across San Diego County during this celebrated week of fabulous dining for less. p. 64

The Two Fridas

THROUGH JAN. 19

Art Lives On The vibrant works of late painter Frida Kahlo (1907-1954) come to life in the new exhibit, The Complete Frida Kahlo: Her Paintings. Her Life.

Her Story. Presented by Global Entertainment Properties 1, the collection makes its U.S. premiere at Point Loma’s NTC Arts & Culture District in Liberty Station—making it the only exhibit in the world to showcase all of Kahlo’s paintings in the same place at the same time. Peruse among 123 replicas hand-painted by master artists in the original size, materials and style as Kahlo painted them; more than 500 of the artist’s personal possessions, including handmade dresses and jewelry; and a collection of photographs chronicling her life and work, including the famed 1939 portrait “Frida in Blue Dress.” Even the studio where Kahlo painted was recreated for the exhibit, complete with her signature canopy bed. p. 64 NEARBY EATS Located in the heart of Point Loma, Old Venice is a popular locals’ hangout and romantic date spot. The family-owned restaurant of more than 30 years is known for its exceptional Italian cuisine and charming patio lit by twinkling white lights entwined in the trees. 2910 Cañon St., Point Loma, 619.222.5888

Y

JAN. 23-26 FARMERS INSURANCE OPEN The top pro golfers in the world tee off at Torrey Pines Golf Course for San Diego’s most celebrated PGA tournament. Events include the Sycuan and Zurich ProAm tournaments, women’s day, charitable activities and military support opportunities. p. 64 FEB. 1-28 SAN DIEGO MUSEUM MONTH Explore more than 40 of the county’s top museums, historical sites, monuments and gardens for half-off admission, including Birch Aquarium at Scripps, Maritime Museum and several Balboa Park museums. p. 64 FEB. 6-16 SAN DIEGO JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL This 24th annual boutique film festival explores the Jewish experience—both historic and current—through dozens of eye-opening shorts, documentaries and feature films. p. 64 FEB. 27, MARCH 1-2 MAINLY MOZART Check out the Mandelring Quartet—presented as part of Mainly Mozart’s 2014 chamber music spotlight—as the renowned string quartet performs Mozart, Shostakovich and Beethoven in intimate, intermission-free concerts across La Jolla, Rancho Santa Fe and Carlsbad. p. 64 MARCH 4 MARDI GRAS Head uptown to celebrate Fat Tuesday at the 13th annual Hillcrest Mardi Gras Street Party. Or venture to downtown’s Gaslamp Quarter for the largest Mardi Gras festival on the West Coast. Beware of flying beads. p. 64

The annual Chinese New Year Food and Cultural Fair downtown features around 25 live performances, children’s crafts, Asian cuisine and a festive lantern parade. p. 64

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where now San Diego

The best in entertainment, shopping and dining.

» FOOD+DRINK Don’t Shoot!

Two words: Ryan Gosling. Yes, Bang Bang is downtown’s newest hotspot, known for its playful Asian cuisine and sexy, campy-chic décor that includes the only restroom in the world dedicated to “The Gos.” We’re talking four walls plastered with photos of the actor. Suffice it to say, the minds behind Bang Bang—Mauricio Couturier and Johnny Shockey—like to have fun. Oversized Japanese lanterns cover the ceiling of the main dining space (pictured), evoking an Asian street market feel. Menu highlights, compliments of Executive Chef Jose Ruigomez, include prawn-and-pork dumplings, Kurobuta sausage stir-fry and ahi poke. A separate sushi bar churns out specialty rolls and sake; while the next-door lounge invites you to dance off those calories. 526 Market St., downtown, 619.677.2264

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Free-form lobster salad at Cannonball

SOAK IT UP Come for the views and stay for the sushi at Cannonball, the casual-cool hangout making quite the splash in Mission Beach. Located in historic Belmont Park—home of the famed Giant Dipper roller coaster and artificial wave-riding at WaveHouse Beach Club—it’s the largest rooftop bar and restaurant in San Diego. Plunked right on the sand with postcard-perfect ocean views, Cannonball serves up Pacific Rim cuisine, sushi and beachinspired craft cocktails for lunch and dinner. Try the seafood ceviche, lobster salad and the steamed duck buns as starters. For sushi, we love the En Fuego roll, made with crab, avocado, torch-seared salmon and roasted garlic aioli; and the signature Cannonball roll, with grilled shrimp, beef tataki, enoki and baby corn. To drink, the Dragonberry Mojito aims to remind you that life’s a beach. 3105 Ocean Front Walk, Mission Beach, 858.228.9283

TOP RIGHT, HALEY HOHENGARTEN

Where’s the Beef?

It’s a candy land for carnivores. The upscale Brazilian steakhouse, Fogo de Chão (pronounced fo-go dèe shoun), has taken over a sprawling, 12,000-squarefoot building downtown. The restaurant specializes in espeto corrido, or “continuous service,” where Brazilian-trained gaucho chefs prepare and serve 16 different cuts of beef, lamb, chicken and pork. Diners control the tableside service by flipping up either a green or red-sided chip; green invites the chefs over to shave fresh “meat on sticks” directly onto

their plates. An extensive gourmet salad bar and traditional Brazilian side dishes offer vegetarian and vegan options. To wash it all down, choose from a 200-label wine list, or sample the Caipirinha, made from Brazilian liquor cachaça. The warm, modern décor is a fusion of Brazilian slate, exposed brick, custom glasstile mosaics, Brazilian rosewood, walnut and maple—highlighted by an exhibition glass wine room and custom wine casks displayed throughout the elegant space.

668 Sixth Ave., downtown, 619.338.0500

Tableside at Fogo de Chão

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» INSIDER’S GUIDE WELCOME BACK, RON! San Diego is celebrating Anchorman 2—from themed cocktails to spotlighting Shamu.

Of the hundreds of movies that have been filmed in San Diego, Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy is arguably the most directly associated with the city, with only Top Gun and Some Like It Hot as legitimate contenders.

The movie was only a so-so hit when it was released in 2004, but since has become a cult hit. Its long-anticipated sequel, Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues, with its Dec. 20 release date, is giving fans a chance to once again hear Will Ferrell say his iconic catchphrase: “Stay classy, San Diego.”

Of course, it’s not like San Diegans haven’t heard it many, many other times in the last nine years. (Earlier this year, it got a lot of use when locals discussed the scandal surrounding now-departed mayor Bob Filner.) “‘Stay Classy, San Diego’ is just a perfect catchphrase,” says Josh Board, film critic for Fox 5 San Diego. “But catchphrases don’t work unless somebody knows them.”

People know that one, according to Robert Arends, public relations manager for San Diego Tourism Authority, who says people from as far away as London say it to him.

The film has also inspired local businesses in varying ways. The Sheraton San Diego has created two Anchorman-themed cocktails: the Scotchy-Scotch-Scotch, with Johnny Walker

blended scotch, Dewar’s Highlander honey, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup and garnished with a lemon wheel, honey comb and a peaty Scotch topper; and the Staying Classy San Diego, with Johnny Walker blended scotch, Benedictine liqueur, fresh lemon juice, blackberries and garnished with mint.

The film also inspired StayClassy.org, an organization that helps nonprofits raise money online. However, the company is having second thoughts about the film that inspired the company name. An official declined to comment on the film’s legacy, except to say a name change may be in the works.

Anchorman’s catchphrases and plot points are also very familiar to employees at the San Diego Zoo, where a pending panda birth makes up much of the first movie’s climax.

“We always get jokes from visitors about people jumping into the exhibits,” says Zoo spokeswoman Christina Simmons. “The film is actually historically inaccurate, because it takes place in the 1970s and we didn’t have pandas until 1996.”

For a film so associated with San Diego, not much of it was filmed in San Diego, save for location shots of the Coronado Bridge and of downtown San Diego (featuring buildings that weren’t actually constructed during the time

period when the film is set). The Zoo didn’t even get to play itself; an old, discarded zoo in Los Angeles’ Griffith Park stood in for it.

However, Ferrell definitely based his Ron Burgundy character on one famous San Diegan: Harold Greene, a popular newscaster during the 1970s, who has since become a TV news icon in Los Angeles.

San Diego 6 morning anchor Marc Bailey jokes that Anchorman might be considered all the training an aspiring TV journalist needs.

“It should be mandatory for all journalism students. In fact, you can probably skip journalism school. Complete waste of time now that I think about it,” he jokes. “Focus on great hair and makeup, a nice wardrobe ... and pronounce each syllable separately and distinctly.

It’s really just that simple.”

San Diego will actually get to play itself in Anchorman 2, which mostly takes place in New York. In May 2013, locals were asked to don Farrah Fawcett wigs and ‘70s leisure suits for a scene filmed at SeaWorld.

SeaWorld officials are keeping mum about what was filmed there, but Simmons has advice for her colleagues on what to expect when the film opens, based on what has happened over at the Zoo. “Get used to hearing lots of movie quotes.” —David Moye

The cast of Anchorman 2

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Scotchy-Scotch-Scotch

Staying Classy San Diego

DETAILS San Diego Zoo 2920 Zoo Drive, Balboa Park, 619.231.1515, sandiegozoo.org SeaWorld 500 Sea World Drive, Mission Bay, 619.226.3901, seaworldparks.com Sheraton San Diego 1380 Harbor Island Drive, Harbor Island, 619.291.2900, sheratonsandiegohotel.com

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HIGH NOTES

» ENTERTAINMENT

Sea of Cortez

Museum Musts Three exquisite new exhibits are on view at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD), La Jolla. Lost in the Memory Palace showcases multimedia works by artists Janet Cardiff and George Bures Miller that explore the realms of consciousness and blur the lines between fiction and reality with a series of aural and visual installations. For the exhibit Sea of Cortez, photographer Dana Montlack worked with scientists and staff members at UC San Diego’s Scripps Institution of Oceanography and Birch Aquarium; she cleverly architected photos that combine unique graphic elements with abstract biological specimens.

Finally, Scripps on Prospect: Evolution of Villa and Cottage is a collaboration

by MCASD and La Jolla Historical Society that examines La Jolla’s historic buildings. Through Jan. 12, 700 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.3541

It’s a pirate’s life for you inside the San Diego Natural History Museum’s new exhibit: Real Pirates: The Untold Story of the Whydah from Slave Ship to Pirate Ship. The touring exhibition, organized by National Geographic, Premier Exhibitions, Inc., and Arts and Exhibitions International, explores early 18th-century piracy with more than 200 artifacts recovered from the ocean floor. Learn about the true story behind the Whydah—a real pirate ship that sank off the coast of Cape Cod nearly 300 years ago; it’s the first fully authenticated pirate ship discovered in U.S. waters—found complete with treasure chests of coins and gold, jewelry, and weaponry such as cannons, pistols and knives. Visitors can view such artifacts and even board a replica of the actual ship. Arrr! Feb. 8-Sept. 28, 2014, San Diego Natural History Museum, 1788 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.3821

Debuting a dramatic new season filled with romance, intrigue, scandal and murder—sprinkled with gourmet food trucks and craft beer and wine offerings at intermission—the San Diego Opera entices younger generations to fall in love with the opera while keeping longtime devotees coming back. Its powerful lineup includes: Paggliacci, The Elixir of Love, A Masked Ball and Don Quixote. In addition, a special concert on March 20 honoring Italian writer Manzoni, Verdi Requiem, assembles an all-star cast comprising the San Diego Opera Chorus and the Master Chorale—making it the largest chorus San Diego Opera has ever assembled on the Civic Theatre stage. Plus, be on the lookout for special Taste of the Opera events, which encompass creatively themed cuisine pairings and dinner party-style discussions of the opera hosted at some of San Diego’s top restaurants.

Jan. 25-April 13, Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100, sdopera.com A Masked Ball

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Comedian Mal Hall performs at The Tipsy Crow (left); funny duo Creepy Caress.

Laughing Stock The comedy scene in San Diego has seen an influx within the past couple years.

Tickets are sold out at the city’s most popular venues, new comedy venues are opening up, and both big and underground artists are coming to the city. Stand-up comedy from such big names as Chelsea Handler, Key and Peele and Will Ferrell were the talk of the town last summer.

And up-and-coming artists are coming here to gain notoriety and expand their fan base; a case in point is the comedy duo Creepy Caress.

These female comedians from Los Angeles routinely travel to San Diego to perform standup. “The crowds in San Diego always come ready to laugh, and it’s a much more laidback environment compared

to the larger cities we perform in,” admits Candice Thompson, Creepy Caress comedian.

“When we perform in San Diego it feels like a vacation.”

One of those places that Thompson has performed stand-up is The Mad House Comedy Club, located at the former Napa Valley Grille inside Horton Plaza. During the 2013 Comic-Con, comics performed at almost every venue in town, including this one with such names as Brian Posehn and Brody Stevens.

Bring a date and share a meal—their portions are large.

Just down the block from Horton Plaza is The Tipsy Crow, San Diego’s longeststanding bar. One may not realize that this venue is the location of one of the best underground comedy

showcases in San Diego. It’s reminiscent of East Coast comedy clubs with its brick walls and dark, intimate atmosphere. San Diego native, comedian Mal Hall, produces the Gaslamp Comedy Show to sold-out crowds; it’s a mix of local comics and up-andcoming comedians.

Completing the comedic trifecta downtown is The American Comedy Co., where folks can catch well-known national touring acts. Shawn Wayans, Mick Foley (yes, the former WWE wrestler also known as Mankind), Joey Diaz and more have done stand-up at this venue. Comics have also done live podcasting during their shows.

What do Gallagher, Robin Williams, David Letterman and Michael Keaton all have

in common? They’ve all performed—on the same bill—at The Comedy Store, which opened its doors in 1977. San Diego’s longest-running and historic comedy venue houses 200 seats and is frequented by some of today’s largest names. Its sister location is in Hollywood, and with a connection like that, it’s a mustsee for San Diego visitors, and a favorite among locals.

There’s never a repeat show at the National Comedy Theater. Audiences of all ages will love the Whose Line Is It Anyway-style show where pro comedians perform skits based on audience suggestions. The theater also offers comedy classes for people who want to master their improv skills. Comedy is serious business. —Nicole Quiroz

DETAILS The Mad House Comedy Club 502 Horton Plaza, downtown, 619.702.6666 The Tipsy Crow 770 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.338.9300 The American Comedy Co. 818 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.795.3858 The Comedy Store 916 Pearl St., La Jolla, 858.454.9176 National Comedy Theater 3717 India St., Mission Hills, 619.295.4999

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San Diego International Airport (left); Puesto’s Cocktail Fresca

» HOT ATTRACTIONS Property Value Two iconic pieces of S.D. real estate undergo landmark overhauls, re-emerging as new dining and retail havens.

HISTORIC PROPORTIONS

A prized piece of historic, seaside real estate has been transformed into a gleaming, world-class shopping, dining and entertainment destination.

The Headquarters at Seaport District is the result of a $40 million renovation project that includes the revitalization of San Diego’s Old Police Headquarters (originally built in 1939)—a complex of several historic buildings surrounding an open-air courtyard that had sat dormant for decades. Reopened November 2013, the property is now a 100,000-square-foot, open-air lifestyle center sprinkled with 25 sophisticated shops, galleries and eateries—all are brand-new yet still uphold the spirit of the historic grounds.

New restaurants include Pizzeria Mozza by famed Chef Mario Batali, known for its enormously popular original location in Los

Angeles; Puesto, with its stunning 4,500-square-foot space designed by Thomas Schoos, and known for its organic Mexican street food and craft cocktails served at its original La Jolla location; a two-level, 7,500-square-foot flagship locale for Eddie V’s, known for its fresh seafood, premium-aged steaks and Old Hollywood vibe; plus anchor restaurants Seasons 52 and The Cheesecake Factory. New shops include Kitson, Madison, Geppetto’s Toys and an art gallery by world-renowned surfing photographer Aaron Chang. Developed by Terramar Retail Centers, The Headquarters serves as the gateway to a 20-acre waterfront development incorporating the historic Seaport Village. Amenities include valet parking and a full-time concierge staff. Now that’s some retail therapy. 789 W. Harbor Drive, downtown, theheadquarters.com

LANDING GEAR

Flying in and out of San Diego International Airport is now a whole lot more pleasant and easier on the eyes. The airport just completed the largest project ever in its entire history: a whopping $900 million expansion, otherwise referred to as “The Green Build” due to the Airport Authority’s commitment to environmental and economic sustainability. Enhancements include the addition of 10 new terminal gates; a dual-level roadway that separates arriving and departing passengers to improve traffic flow and congestion; enhanced curbside check-in, with 27 easyto-use kiosks and 32 airline/Skycap counter check-in positions; a new security checkpoint with twice as many security lanes; and a 25,000-square-foot ticket lobby, with 32 airline counter check-in positions and 10 selfservice kiosks. Plus, check out the

9,200-square-foot concessions area called Sunset Cove, where passengers can relax before their flights and take in views of the airfield and Point Loma; as well as numerous jaw-dropping art installations throughout. Green elements include plenty of new solar panels, reflective roofs, lowflow fixtures, added natural light via floor-to-ceiling windows and 40 reserved parking spaces for charging electric vehicles in front of the terminals. Our pick for the best part of the expansion? More than 30 new dining and retail outposts, many of which are San Diego-based businesses, have set up shop at the airport, including Phil’s BBQ, Saffron, Tommy V’s Pizzeria, Stone Brewing Co., Pannikin Coffee & Tea, two chic wine bars and even a Be Relax Spa offering facials and hotstone massages. You’re sure to be relaxed and ready for takeoff.

3225 N. Harbor Drive, san.org

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SouthP

The South Park Scene

South Park is a charming and historic neighborhood with Craftsman and Art Deco homes, and a lively business community.

Pubs and cafes, boutiques and galleries, pet pampering, markets — you’ll find it all here.

Enjoy burgers, comfort food, regional wines, local beers in a friendly, open-air environment.

Families, couples, dogs—it’s all good.

Handcrafted food, beverages and confections infused with chocolate, caramel or vanilla. Sweet and savory brunch served daily from 9 am to 2 pm.

Station Tavern

Eclipse Chocolate

The place to find quality dog and cat food, treats, toys, and a self serve wash. Every bath comes with a complimentary Blueberry Facial®.

Alchemy Restaurant & Lounge serves cultural fare and craft cocktails in a casual and hip setting.

South Bark Dog Wash

Alchemy

2204 Fern Street 619.255.0657 stationtavern.com

2145 Fern Street 619.578.2984 eclipsechocolate.com

EVENT CALENDAR www.SouthParkScene.com December 1-31, 2013 Luminaria San Diego

Holiday Lighting Festival throughout Historic South Park -- browse our decorated streets and shops, see the reclaimed wood and metal sculptured South Park Luminaria Tree on Grape Street, find great gifts throughout local shops and boutiques.

December 1 :: 6pm Luminaria First Light Ceremony December 7 :: 6pm–10pm Luminaria Walkabout & Free Trolley

2037 30 Street 619.232.7387 southbark.com th

SouthParkSCENE.COM FOR MAPS, DIRECTORY, EVENT INFOrmatiOn AND MORE!

1503 30th Street 619.255.0616 alchemysandiego.com

SouthParkSCENE.COM

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the

HUNGER GAMES THE HUNT FOR THE LATEST AND GREATEST IN SAN DIEGO DINING

BY SA R A H DAO US T

Are you hungry? You came to the right place if so. America’s Finest City is abuzz with culinary happenings, and we’ve been busy hunting down the very latest at a feverish pace. (It’s our job, after all.) Here’s an insider’s guide to San Diego’s hottest dining developments—from flourishing foodie districts to fresh faces in the kitchen to food trends that, thankfully, refuse to fade. Game on!

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Honey-glazed Chilean sea bass with grapefruit at Morada.

Opposite: Avant’s cheese plate.

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NORTHERN EXPOSURE

D From top: Searsucker Del Mar; Avant’s shaved zucchini and burrata salad; Cucina Enoteca.

ining in San Diego’s North County has never been more alive or packed with so many diverse new options.

Del Mar alone is home to a host of new darlings. At Searsucker Del Mar (formerly Burlap) nibble on small bites such as the duck-fat fries and farm-bird lollipops on the expansive patio, at a communal table or on a cozy couch by the fire.

At recently renovated Flower Hill Promenade, Matt Gordon’s stylish Sea & Smoke is a huge hit; the American brasserie encompasses a charming back patio, sleek bar and an artisanal menu filled with wood-fired meats, seafood, salads and specialties such as roasted, grass-fed bone marrow and multigrain risotto. On the same lot, the multilevel Cucina Enoteca by restaurateur Tracy Borkum features rooftop patio dining and inventive Cali-Italian fare such as squid-ink gnocchi and corn agnolotti.

To tour some of North County’s other new restaurants, we suggest a little hotel-hopping. At Morada, the elegant new eatery inside the freshly renovated Inn at Rancho Santa Fe, guests are surrounded by a décor that marries whitewashed walls with delicate crystal chandeliers, warm woods, marble accents and black-and-white photographs— along with artful California cuisine by Chef Todd Allison. At Avant inside Rancho Bernardo Inn, acclaimed Chef Nicolas Bour oversees a mostly organic, farm-to-table menu that includes pan-roasted Baja grouper, freerange chicken and an extensive array of charcuterie and cheeses.

Avant’s warm, earth-toned dining room unfolds into a generous patio with golf-course views. At country-chic Veladora at Rancho Valencia, dine on handcrafted “Coastal Ranch” cuisine by Executive Chef Eric Bauer under romantic lantern lighting and soaring wood-beam ceilings.

OPENING SPREAD, LEFT: TRINETTE REED; THIS PAGE, TOP: CHANTELLE PHOTOGRAPHY; CENTER: TRINETTE REED

The quaint beach and inland communities north of central San Diego are hopping with dining activity. In fact, North County's new eateries are positively delicious.

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LA JOLLA HEAT WAVE La Jolla is known for its refined eateries and acclaimed chefs—from Trey Foshee at George's at the Cove to Jason Knibb at Nine-Ten. Say hello to their fab new neighbors.

T

he dining scene in this upscale enclave of San Diego has experienced an influx of bold new eateries over the last two years. Sophisticated dining and elegant décor embody chic Herringbone, where La Jolla socialites can be found sipping martinis, and the menu is best described as “fish meets field;” while Cusp, featuring Mediterranean small plates and custom craft cocktails, boasts panoramic coastline views from 11 stories up at Hotel La Jolla; and the sumptuously decorated Amaya La Jolla is earning raves for its refined twist on Southern cuisine. More casual options are also making their mark, including: Finch’s Bistro & Wine Bar, a quaint hole in the wall known for its Euro-inspired plates; The Promiscuous Fork, a foodieacclaimed joint with the best pot-roast sandwich in the area;

and Puesto, a cult-followed eatery serving up organic Mexican street food in an ultra-casual setting. Brand-new to the community, The Hake Kitchen & Bar features a global menu ranging from grilled octopus to hamachi tartare, plus the largest mezcal selection in San Diego—all amid an eclectic-mod décor. Iberico Spanish Bistro boasts an impressive selection of tapas, paella and its own gin club—the first of its kind in SoCal. At quietly cool Stella, expect modern Italian fare, ocean views and an exceptional wine list. Finally, over at the iconic La Valencia Hotel (or “La V”), the historic property is undergoing a major overhaul. Acclaimed Chef Daniel Barron oversees The Med, featuring an expanded cove-facing terrace and “New American” cuisine; while Café la Rue just reopened as a Frenchcountryside-inspired bistro.

From top: Iberico Spanish Bistro; buttermilk-fried quail at Amaya La Jolla; croquetas at The Hake.

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Karrie Hills

Diane Powers

Amiko Gubbins

Gayle Covner of Barrio Logan's Blueprint CafĂŠ.

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FEMALE PERSUASION Some of San Diego's most innovative chefs and restaurateurs currently shaking things up across town just so happen to be women.

P

GAYLE COVNER PHOTO BY ROBERT BENSON

owerhouse Diane Powers isn’t slowing down after more than four decades as one of the city’s most accomplished and pioneering entrepreneurs. The owner and operator of Old Town’s iconic Bazaar del Mundo shops, as well as Casa de Pico, Casa Guadalajara and Casa de Bandini restaurants, recently opened Casa Sol y Mar in the Del Mar Highlands Town Center. The massive cantina features vibrant décor complete with Mexican folk art, strolling mariachis, patio dining and an expansive bar area. The menu comprises authentic, homemade dishes that range from crispy shrimp tacos to mango-chipotle chicken.

Karrie Hills, another fabulous woman in the kitchen, has been busy stirring up trouble (the good kind) as new executive chef of both The Wellington Steak & Martini Lounge (aka The Well) and The Red Door Restaurant & Wine Bar in Mission Hills. Locals already love this San Francisco-trained chef’s cooking; we hear she has a way with duck (ask for the duck poutine).

At Blueprint Café, Barrio Logan’s hidden gem of a lunch spot, owner Gayle Covner is working to keep the delicate barrio community moving forward. The classically trained Cordon Bleu chef can be found serving up fresh catches to the very fishermen who bring them into her eatery, along with a regular patronage of local artists and architects.

Amiko Gubbins—a veteran of the local dining scene known for her stints at the original Japengo and former Parallel 33 restaurants—has reappeared after flying under the radar for the last few years. Gubbins has joined the Cohn Restaurant Group, which owns and operates 13 restaurants in San Diego, as a collaborating chef—working with the chefs at each Cohn location on menu development and new flavor profiles. Sounds delicious.

Bunz's BaconJam burger.

Bottom left: Three Li’l Pigs.

BURGER BUZZ 2.0

If you can build it—using your wildest imagination—will they come? When it comes to the city's most inventive burgers, the answer evidently is yes.

T

he battle of the burger joints continues in San Diego, where a new “burgery” seemingly has popped up nearly every week for the past two years.

The latest battle lies in between the bun, as eateries try to one-up each other with the most creative, exotic and occasionally controversial burger concoctions possible.

We tried a few gut-busting contenders firsthand.

Maryjane's Coffee Shop, known for its build-your-ownburger menu and specialty burgers, recently introduced the Candied Bacon Burger, which comes paired with a Stone Smoked Porter craft brew. This sexy beast is made with a half-pound patty combining ground-chuck steak, pork back and bacon; layered with slices of thick-sliced bacon candied with maple syrup, brown sugar and molasses; topped with melted jack cheese, hickorysmoked pulled pork mixed with

a spicy chipotle-barbecue sauce, a layer of cabbage slaw tossed in champagne vinaigrette, and a chipotle-aioli spread. Whoa.

At Bunz in Mission Valley, loosen your belt for the Three Li’l Pigs, with bacon, ham, pulled pork, cheddar cheese, onions and beerthyme mustard; or the Who’s Ur Daddy—two patties stuffed with pickled jalapeños and blue cheese, topped with onions, coleslaw, potato chips and chipotle aioli. And add "bacon jam" to any burger.

Slater’s 50/50 in Point Loma doesn’t mess around; the Peanut Butter & Jellousy is a groundbeef patty topped with thick-cut bacon, creamy peanut butter and strawberry jelly on a honey-wheat bun. Finally, at Doods Foods, located inside dive bar The Tin Can in Bankers Hill, only locals know about the California Burgito— beef, cheese, French fries, guacamole and salsa fresca stuffed in a bolillo bun. We surrender.

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From top: Cocktails and pie at Magnolia; the dining room and crispy oysters Rockefeller at American Voodoo.

SOUTHERN COMFORT San Diego is no doubt a melting pot of culture and cuisine, and we're excited to see a trend toward celebrating Southern roots in the form of home-cooked comfort food.

N

ew eateries with a Southern drawl are charming foodies all over town.

Leading the pack, Magnolia Tap & Kitchen feels like a cozy librarymeets-saloon—with warm wood and brick paneling, a crackling fireplace and a pretense-free bar scene. Start with a “scratch cocktail” such as the Scallywag with gin, mint, basil, jalapeño and lime; or the Grandma’s Porch with house-infused peach rum, Grand Marnier, lemonade and iced tea.

The menu includes Southern favorites with California influences.

The habañero cornbread with smoked peach butter and bacon mac ‘n’ cheese make for hearty starters, while the BBQ pulled pork sandwich—with sides of greenbean succotash, deviled eggs and baked beans—may induce a welcome food coma. For dessert, the house-made pecan pie is the best you’ll find in San Diego.

In East Village, Southpaw Social Club is a spacious, stylish

watering hole overlooking Petco Park—known for its bustling bar scene, locally brewed beer selections and Southern-tinged American craft food. Kick back on one of three patios while sipping a local ale on tap or a specialty cocktail such as the Dixieland Delight with strawberry lemonade, balsamic reduction, gin and basil. For dinner, the meatloaf sandwich and roasted chicken potpie hit the spot.

Casting a spell in University Heights, Southern Belle American Voodoo is an intimate, New Orleans-inspired eatery that serves regionally sourced, seasonal “Cali-Creole” cuisine with a side of voodoo magic. The 1,200-squarefoot space is adorned with funky, voodoo-inspired relics and actual voodoo dolls, each of which is a conversation piece. Menu hits include the fried chicken with mustard greens, crispy oysters Rockefeller, lobster bouillabaisse, fried okra and biscuits ‘n’ gravy.

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PUBLIC NOTICE

The latest crop of casual outposts offering gourmet bar food and craft beer are high on style and food quality, but low on pretense ... and they're anything but private.

T

he word “public” seems to be especially popular in the local dining community lately. It started in winter 2011 with The Public House La Jolla— a casual hangout located inside an actual historic house, known for burgers and hard-to-find craft beers. Then came Raglan Public House, a welcome addition to Ocean Beach offering grass-fed burgers, an extensive beer tap/ cask list and a New Zealandinspired vibe. Raglan’s same owners then launched Queenstown Public House, transforming a Victorian home into a Little Italy hotspot, complete with a sprawling dining porch, its own garden and killer mimosas. Over in Kensington, Tracy Borkum transformed her Kensington Grill of 18 years into Nantucket-inspired Fish Public, plating up artisanal

seafood dishes from both coasts.

The newest to ride the public train? Waypoint Public opened fall 2013 in the former Linkery space in the heart of North Park.

The casual, 5,000-square-foot, neighborhood bistro and beer bar—opened by partners John Pani, Brian Jensen and Amanda Baumgarten—boasts a list of 300 bottled craft beers from all areas of the globe, a custom 30-tap system with a heavy focus on West Coast craft brews, and eclectic California cuisine. The fried-green tomatoes and charred octopus make for great starters, while the flank steak with dirty rice and the mussels with pork belly and kale are savory entrées. Don’t miss happy hour on weekdays from 4 to 6 p.m. and daily drink specials. Sounds like a public welcome to us.

Waypoint Public’s grilled chicken with squash and Brussels sprouts.

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AV E N U E Southpaw Social Club

Searsucker Del Mar 12995 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.369.5700

Puesto 1026 Wall St., La Jolla, 858.454.1260

Sea & Smoke 2690 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.925.8212

The Hake Kitchen & Bar 1250 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.1637

Cucina Enoteca 2730 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.704.4500

Iberico Spanish Bistro 909 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.1958

Morada 5951 Linea Del Cielo, Rancho Santa Fe, 858.381.8289

Stella 8008 Girard Ave., La Jolla, 858.551.3242

Avant 17550 Bernardo Oaks Drive, Rancho Bernardo, 858.675.8550 Veladora 5921 Valencia Circle, Rancho Santa Fe, 858.759.6240 Herringbone 7837 Herschel Ave., La Jolla, 858.459.0221 Cusp 7955 La Jolla Shores Drive, La Jolla, 858.551.3620 Amaya La Jolla 1205 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.750.3695 Finch’s Wine Bar & Bistro 7644 Girard Ave., La Jolla, 858.456.4056 The Promiscuous Fork 6984 La Jolla Blvd., La Jolla, 858.454.3663

La Valencia 1132 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.0771 Casa Sol y Mar 12865 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.792.4100 The Wellington Steak & Martini Lounge 729 W. Washington St., Mission Hills, 619.295.6001 The Red Door Restaurant & Wine Bar 741 W. Washington St., Mission Hills, 619.295.6000 Blueprint Café 1805 Newton Ave., Barrio Logan, 619.233.7010

Bunz 475 Hotel Circle South, Mission Valley, 619.298.6515 Slater's 50/50 2750 Dewey Road, Point Loma, 619.398.2600 Doods Foods 1863 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.381.2756 Magnolia Tap & Kitchen 624 E St., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.255.0925

O RAN GE

DINING GUIDE

Southpaw Social Club 815 J St., East Village, 619.269.2255 American Voodoo 4655 Park Blvd., University Heights, 619.255.8504 The Public House 830 Kline St., La Jolla, 858.551.9210 Raglan Public House 1851 Bacon St., Ocean Beach, 619.794.2304 Queenstown Public House 1557 Columbia St., Little Italy, 619.546.0444

Cohn Restaurant Group cohnrestaurants.com

Fish Public 4055 Adams Ave., Kensington, 619.281.4014

Maryjane’s Coffee Shop 207 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.764.6950

Waypoint Public 3794 30th St., North Park, 619.255.8778

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6 reasons to shop and dine along the best block in Coronado.

premier destination for world-class shopping A and dining, the 900 block of

Orange Avenue is nestled in the heart of historic Coronado—located just minutes from downtown San Diego. Enjoy a scenic drive over the famed Coronado Bridge or take the ferry across the bay to access this exclusive seaside community’s many charming shops and restaurants.

CELTIC CORNER



916 Orange Ave. 619 435 1880 scottishtreasures.net



936 Orange Ave. 619 435 5212 artcoronado.com



SHORELINES GALLERY

918 Orange Ave. 619 727 4080 slsdgallery.com

9TH STREET









CORONADO TASTE OF OILS 954 Orange Ave. 619 522 0098 coronadotasteofoils.com







ART & FRAMES GALLERY

photo by: frankbongiorno.com

ORANGE AV

ENUE

 

  10TH STREET



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CLAYTON’S COFFEE SHOP 979 Orange Ave.

619 435 5425



WAG ‘N TAILS

945 Orange Ave. 619 435 3513 wagntails-coronado.com

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EXPLORING

Downtown

THE PAST AND PRESENT COME TOGETHER IN SAN DIEGO’S LIVELY, HISTORIC DOWNTOWN NEIGHBORHOODS.

➺

Downtown San Diego is the city’s bustling, historic core, which has grown by leaps and bounds in the last 10 years. From its trendy shops, restaurants and nightlife, to its noted landmarks such as Petco Park in East Village and the USS Midway on the harborfont, no two downtown visits need be the same.

Businessman Alonzo Erastus Horton envisioned San Diego as a bustling port city, and in 1867 he spent $264 for 800 acres he called “New Town.” Today, New Town is known as the historic Gaslamp Quarter, or simply “The Gaslamp.” Comprising more than 16 blocks, the Gaslamp stretches from Broadway to Har­bor Drive (just north of the Convention Center), with Fourth, Fifth and Sixth ave­nues as its main thoroughfares. Anchoring the area’s northwest end is Horton Plaza, a small square with a bubbling fountain on the corner of Broadway and Fourth.

The Gaslamp’s immaculately preserved Victorian-style buildings are home to dozens of restaurants, clubs, ­theaters and retailers. Several tour guides offer an insider’s look at the Gaslamp (see p. 74), or create your own: The area can be easily covered on foot, or you can rent from Bike Revolution (522 Sixth Ave.) to navigate the district on two wheels.

If you start your exploration at the southern end of the Gaslamp, be sure to visit the Chuck Jones Gallery (232 Fifth Ave.) for cool animation art. Also check out the Art of Tim Cantor gallery (527 Fourth Ave.) for conceptual art, oil paintings and writings. Shop for designer resale at Carolyn’s (310 K St.) or pre-owned luxury watches at Nikki & Co. Fine Jewelers (562 Fifth Ave.).

Find clothing, towels and bedsheets made from bamboo at Cariloha (435 J St.). Stop in locally owned Dolcetti (635 Fifth Ave.) for contemporary men’s and women’s clothing. For national retailers, venture farther up Fifth, where you’ll find well-known stores like hat boutique Goorin Brothers (631 Fifth Ave.), Quiksilver (402 Fifth Ave.), Urban Outfitters (665 Fifth Ave.) and Dutch brand G-Star Raw (470 Fifth Ave.), with styles for men and women.

Or make your way over to Westfield Horton Plaza (see p. 71), a multilevel outdoor mall with a kaleidoscopic design that kicked off the revitalization of downtown when it was constructed in 1985. It’s now home to some 100 restaurants and shops, including White House Black Market, Macy’s, BCBG and more. There’s also culture to be had at the mall: San Diego Repertory Theatre performs on the Lyceum Theatre stage, and the historic Balboa Theatre anchors the shopping center’s eastern edge, at Fourth Avenue and E Street. And don’t mind the outdoor construction—a new urban plaza is in the works.

After a long day of shopping and sightseeing, sate your hunger at one of the Gaslamp’s 100-plus restaurants, bars and cafés, ranging from American to Chinese to Indian to Thai to steak and seafood (please see dining guide, p. 63).

Parking can be dicey in the Gaslamp; a garage is your best bet. Park It On Market is a 500-space garage at Market Street with entrances on Sixth and Seventh avenues (619.232.1271); while 6th & K Parkade offers 1,230 spots, with entrances on Sixth and Seventh avenues (619.233.3994). For more information, call the ­Gas­lamp Quarter Association (619.233.5227).

Downtown’s Core

Arts and culture abound downtown. Sites worth exploring include the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego and the New Children’s Museum, an interactive art/play place with innovative exhibits for kids of all ages. The San Diego Chinese ­Historical Museum (404 Third Ave.) features a beautiful garden with a koi pond.

More than a century old, the San Diego Symphony performs at Copley Symphony Hall, while Broadway/San Diego brings touring shows to the Civic Theatre (1100 Third Ave.), and Spreckels Theatre (121 Broadway) hosts many performing arts events throughout the year.

East Village

The completion of Petco Park (100 Park Blvd.) and the New Central Library (330 Park Blvd.) helped gentrify this once-gritty, now-alive neighborhood east of the Gaslamp.

(FROM LEFT) IAN WHITE, EDWIN SANTIAGO, JOHN DOLE

Gaslamp Quarter

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Shop among feisty fashions at Bloom boutique (660 Ninth Ave.). Pick up a creamy burrata at Venissimo Cheese (871 G St.), which also offers cheese-making classes, or grab a fine California cabernet sauvignon at Bacchus Wine Market (647 G St.).

The area’s burgeoning art scene includes a few notable galleries: the edgy Periscope Project (corner of 15th and K streets) built from stacked shipping cargo containers, and Alexander Salazar Fine Art (640 Broadway), featuring mixed-media work from emerging and mid-career contemporary artists.

Little Italy

A few blocks north of downtown, Little Italy is home to fabulous restaurants, galleries, boutiques and markets dotting the main drag, India Street. Highlights include the popular Bottlecraft (2161 India St.) and new Ballast Point (2215 India St.) craft beer tasting rooms; a handful of small art galleries, such as Noel-Baza Fine Art (2165 India St.), featuring works by legends and locals alike; and trendy boutiques, including Spoil Me Rotten (1501 India St.), offering women’s dresses, blouses, scarves and jewelry.

Take time to explore the streets branching off from India, too. The colorful cottages of the Fir Street Shops include Love & Aesthetics (621 W. Fir St.), stocked with rare artwork, home wares, bath products, jewelry and gift items; as well as Vitreum (619 W. Fir St.), specializing in simple, elegant ceramics. On Cedar, Vocabulary (414 W. Cedar St.) is a chic boutique featuring emerging designers.

Running parallel to India Street, Kettner Boulevard forms the spine of the art-anddesign district. A gallery cluster near the corner of Kettner and Kalmia includes cool

Left to right: downtown’s floating Maritime Museum; sidewalk fronts in Little Italy; the landmark entrance to the Gaslamp Quarter.

Subtext Gallery (2479 Kettner Blvd.), focused on lowbrow and graphic artists. Monthly on the second Friday, many area galleries host evening receptions.

Shop for vintage and modern furniture, art and home accents at @HOM (2310-B Kettner Blvd.) and Mixture (2210 Kettner Blvd.), identifiable by its large roll-up garage door.

Foodies will enjoy roaming the popular Saturday morning Mercato farmers market on Date Street (619.233.3769).

Embarcadero

Retail/entertainment destinations include The Headquarters at Seaport District and Seaport Village (see p. 71), a 14-acre plaza with shops and a 19th-century carousel.

The bayside boardwalk is ideal for walking

G R E AT F I N D

to and from the Convention Center. Grab an iced cappuccino at Upstart Crow Bookstore & Coffeehouse (835-C W. Harbor Drive) and head for the Embarcadero Marina Park, which offers bike and jogging trails, basketball courts and picnicking. Continue north along the harbor to Broadway Pier, where you can embark on sightseeing excursions or catch the Coronado Ferry (1050 N. Harbor Drive), which travels across the bay several times daily. Make time to tour the retired USS Midway (see p. 71) aircraft carrier and the floating Maritime Museum (see p. 70).

After a day of exploring, get pampered at the sea-inspired Kin Spa at the Manchester Grand Hyatt (1 Market Place).

For a map of these neighborhoods, see p. 78.

For restaurants in this area, see p. 63.

/ boutique chic

➺It’s one of those quaint shops you stumble into with the intent of roaming around for maybe

two minutes … and an hour later you wonder how you ever lived without it. Be sure to thank owner and curator Sean Barnes, who regularly stocks Love & Aesthetics, the newest boutique lining Little Italy’s charming Fir Street. Barnes has filled what he calls his “lifestyle store” with unique home furnishings, lighting and tabletop accessories, artwork, jewelry, fragrances, bath and body products, and unusual gift items—all of which are hard to find elsewhere in San Diego and are mostly handmade by emerging artisans. 621 W. Fir St., Little Italy, 619.354.8441

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EXPLORING

La Jolla

LA JOLLA IS A JEWEL SPARKLING WITH ART, THEATER, FINE DINING, BOUTIQUE SHOPPING AND THE AREA’S BEST OUTDOOR RECREATION.

➺

Translated literally as “the jewel,” La Jolla is a gem. The upscale village is known for its luxe specialty boutiques, art galleries and fine-dining venues that offer jaw-dropping views of the La Jolla coastline and the many stunning homes overlooking it. Nearby, hike at Torrey Pines and shop in the Golden Triangle.

La Jolla’s stylish streets are lined with highend boutiques, antique stores and art galleries. Prospect Street and Girard Avenue form the spines of the village shopping district, but don’t be afraid to venture off onto side streets, where hidden gems await, including Brooks Brothers (1055 Wall St.); the boutique stationery shop Sweet Paper; (7660 Fay Ave.); Las Manos del Artesano (7940 Herschel Ave.), a gallery with Latin American folk art, jewelry and pottery; and Tijon (7853 Herschel Ave.), a perfume shop where you can customize your own fragance.

On Girard, amid national brands like Banana Republic (7841 Girard Ave.), we love women’s apparel boutique Kerut (7944 Girard Ave.), a well-appointed spot run by a stylist. It’s not uncommon to find cupcakes and bubbly awaiting your arrival. Farther down Girard is La Maisonnette (7631 Girard Ave.), an oasis of Parisian and French country gifts and textiles, as well as independent bookseller D.G. Wills (7461 Girard Ave.) for that rare first-edition.

Back on Prospect Street, a slew of femalefriendly stores welcome shoppers, including locally designed swimwear shop Sauvage (1025 Prospect St.) and Robina (1261 Prospect St.), with chic women’s apparel and accessories. There’s also Westime (1227 Prospect St.), offering high-end designer watches for

both men and women. Also check out We Olive (1158 Prospect St.), a wine and olive bar featuring olive oil tastings and plenty of unique gift ideas.

The village is also home to many wellrespected art galleries, whose collections range from landscape photography to Picasso canvases. A handful are clustered close together on Girard Avenue, making it easy to hop between them on nights when they all have coordinated opening receptions. Quint Gallery (7547 Girard Ave.) showcases edgy work by national artists like Ryan McGinness, while Scott White Contemporary Art (7655 Girard St.) represents emerging and mid-career artists, as well as collections that include work by the likes of Willem de Kooning and Alexander Calder. Joseph Bellows Gallery (7661 Girard Ave.) mounts regular exhibitions of stunning black-and-white photography.

La Jolla Boulevard heads south out of the village toward Bird Rock, where worthwhile boutiques for women include Capricorn (5544 La Jolla Blvd.) and Mimi & Red (5630 La Jolla Blvd.), with threads from cuttingedge designers. Break for coffee at Bird Rock Coffee Roasters (5627 La Jolla Blvd.), whose sought-after beans are served at cafés throughout the city, or pick up a loaf of gluten-free bread at the charming Julian Bakery (5621 La Jolla Blvd.).

The neighborhood of La Jolla Shores, just a short drive up Torrey Pines Road, is also worth a visit. The wide, flat beach is perfect for swimming and sunning, while the main drag, Avenida de la Playa, is lined with eateries and rental shops with surf and kayak gear.

Arts & Science

The University of Cali­fornia, San Diego (9500 Gilman Drive) is home to one of the best theaters in the region: La Jolla Playhouse. The theater was founded in 1947 by actors Mel Ferrer, Dorothy McGuire and La Jolla native Gregory Peck.

The Stuart Collection, a group of site-specific outdoor sculptures, adds to the artistic setting at UCSD. A 24-foot giant teddy bear made of boulders and a 560-foot-long “Snake Path” are among the artworks placed throughout the 1,200-acre campus.

Just north of campus is the Salk Institute for Biological Studies (10010 N. Torrey Pines Road), an architectural masterpiece designed

by Louis Kahn. The scientific research complex was named in honor of Dr. Jonas Salk, who discovered a vaccine for polio and later lived in La Jolla. Tours of campus architecture are available to the public (858.453.4100).

Southwest of campus sits Scripps Institution of Oceanography (8622 Kennel Way) and Birch Aquarium (see p. 68), both among the world’s best ocean-life learning centers.

IAN WHITE

Boutiques and Galleries

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In La Jolla Village, the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (see p. 70) examines the boundaries of art created since 1950.

Housed in the former home of Ellen Browning Scripps, the museum’s galleries boast an unparalleled ocean view, while Nancy Rubins’ stunning large-scale, nautical-inspired artwork adorns the museum’s west side.

The Athenaeum Music & Arts Library (1008 Wall St.) features year-round art exhibitions, jazz and chamber music concerts, and a treasure trove of books and records.

Recreation

La Jolla is paradise for outdoorsy types. The Cove (1100 Coast Blvd.) is a haven for swimmers and snorkelers; La Jolla Shores (8200 Camino del Oro) has easy access for scuba divers; and Windansea (6800 Neptune Place), immortalized in Tom Wolfe’s The Pump House Gang, is a great surfing break.

Children’s Pool, a small cove next to Ellen Browning Scripps Park, is a place to observe wildlife, particularly the harbor seals that have taken over the area. The seals’ encampment has caused an ongoing community debate: Some residents want to reclaim the cove for a children’s pool; others advocate for the seals.

For a quick bite, oceanview restaurants line Prospect Street and Coast Boulevard.

Torrey Pines

Torrey Pines is just north of La Jolla Village.

There, you’ll find the 2,000-acre Torrey Pines State Reserve, which offers eight miles of hiking trails winding through wind-sculpted pines and wildflowers. Located off Coast Highway 101 between La Jolla and Del Mar, the reserve was established to protect the

Left to right: the serene La Jolla coastline; shopping in central La Jolla Village; ocean views from the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego.

nation’s rarest pine tree, the Pinus torreyan.

One of the reserve’s trails leads directly to Torrey Pines State Beach, located on North Torrey Pines Road. The beach, which spans 4.5 miles from Del Mar to the cliffs at Torrey Pines Mesa, is a great place for swimming, boating and fishing. You can also catch these amazing ocean views from up high, via a hang glider or paraglider. The Torrey Pines Gliderport (2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Drive) offers flights (tandem, too) for novices and extreme adventure seekers.

Adjacent Black’s Beach is a remote, twomile sandy strip known for great surfing—and nude sunbathing (“not officially sanctioned”).

Nearby, Torrey Pines Golf Course gives golfers the ultimate indulgence: two courses with stunning ocean views. In 2008, the landmark

G R E AT F I N D

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became one of the only public courses to host a U.S. Open; it’s also the site of the PGA Tour’s Farmers Insurance Open.

Golden Triangle

The area east of La Jolla Village is known as the Golden Triangle, bordered by Interstate 5 on the west, Interstate 805 on the east and State Route 52 on the south. This triangular area includes upscale hotels, fine dining and great shopping. The shopping district revolves around Westfield University Towne Centre (see p. 71), which locals shorten to “UTC.” This recently renovated outdoor mall features dozens of eateries, shops and several department stores.

For a map of these neighborhoods, see p. 79.

For a list of restaurants in this area, see p. 63.

/ smelling salts 2.0

Experience the healing powers of salt (yes, salt!) at The Salt Room La Jolla. Inside a “salt room” filled with dry-salt-enriched air similar to the microclimate of actual salt caves, guests sit back and relax for about 45 minutes as they breathe in tiny salt particles deep into the lungs, where the salt then destroys bacteria and strengthens the immune system. The process is known as halotherapy—aimed at treating a host of respiratory ailments and skin conditions, from eczema to asthma. It’s 100-percent natural, safe and drug-free. A single session costs about $45. Who knew salt could be so good for you? 7509 Draper Ave., La Jolla, 858.456.3900

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EXPLORING

Beach Cities

FROM CORONADO TO PACIFIC BEACH, WELCOME TO SOCAL’S MOST SCENIC SEASIDE NEIGHBORHOODS.

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San Diego’s beach cities epitomize quintessential SoCal; they’re diverse, laid-back and full of charm.

Coronado is known for the historic Hotel Del and its pristine beaches; Ocean Beach is a fun, funky community of surfers and hippies; and Mission Bay offers outdoor recreation at its best. Take your pick.

Coronado is an island of small-town quaintness amid San Diego’s big-city bustle. Well, it’s not really an island, though many locals call it that. Coro­nado is actually an ­isthmus, attached to the mainland at the southern end of Silver Strand State Beach.

Though driving there via the iconic Coro­ nado Bridge is always a thrill, it’s also great fun to travel by sea. The Coronado/San Diego Ferry leaves on the hour from downtown’s Broadway Pier between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.

(619.234.4111), while San Diego Water Taxi offers on-call transportation around the bay from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (619.235.8294). Upon arrival, check out the shops and restaurants at Coronado Ferry Landing (1201 First St.), then rent a cruiser at Bikes and Beyond to explore Coronado’s quaint side streets.

Head south on the main drag of Orange Avenue to find an inviting retail district, with shops like Shorelines Gallery (918 Orange Ave.) for custom artwork, jewelry and furnishings; Coronado Taste of Oils (954 Orange Ave.) to sample dozens of flavors of gourmet olive oils and vinegars; and Blue Jeans and Bikinis (971 Orange Ave.) for clothing and swimwear. Pick up a new paperback at Bay Books (1029 Orange Ave.), and pop into The Attic (1011 Orange Ave.) for modern home décor pieces, antique accents and fun jewelry from local designers.

Find more boutiques inside the storybook Hotel del Coronado (1500 Orange Ave.), opened in 1888 and a National Historic Landmark. For more on the town’s history, stop by the Coronado Museum of History and Art (1100 Orange Ave.). Other Coronado gems include: Wag’n Tails (945 Orange Ave.) for pet pampering and supplies; Scottish Treasures (916 Orange Ave.) for unique accessories and gifts; Clayton’s Coffee Shop (979 Orange Ave.) for a caffeine fix; and Art & Frames by Wood Gallery (936 Orange Ave.) for art inspiration.

Catch a play at Lamb’s Players Theatre (1142 Orange Ave.), the area’s best ensemble outfit.

Shelter Island / Harbor Island

Shelter Island and Harbor Island aren’t really “islands” either; they’re connected to the mainland and were created more than 35 years ago with tons of sand dredged from the floor of the bay. Shelter Island, with its many bars, restaurants and nautically themed stores, is the departure point for various sportfishing charters. The area is also home to Humphrey’s Concerts by the Bay, a 1,400seat outdoor theater that hosts jazz, blues and pop headliners in warmer months. Nearby Harbor Island has its own, smaller outdoor festival site, Spanish Landing Park, and several bayview restaurants. Both islands offer postcard vistas of the downtown skyline, plus flat paths for walks and bike rides.

Ocean Beach and Point Loma

“O.B.” for short, this neighborhood is truly one of San Diego’s most unique. It’s an endless summer of love in O.B., an aggregation of aging hippies, surfers, ­bikers, artists, ­musicians and other free spirits. “OBceans” possess a strong sense of community and territorial pride best summed up by a oncepopular bumper sticker: “U.S. out of O.B.” The main drag, Newport Avenue, smells of incense and has many shops catering to the O.B. lifestyle, but also plenty of antiques dealers at places like Newport Avenue Antiques (4836 Newport Ave.). Music junkies will love the vintage vinyl at Cow Records (5040 ­Newport Ave.), while Galactic Comics (4981 Newport Ave.) is heaven for graphicnovel fans. The Corner Store (4873 Newport Ave.) is home to an array of shabby-chic furnishings, tea sets, vintage costume jewelry and other home and garden treasures. Just off Newport, Noon (4993 Niagara Ave.) has handmade letterpress cards and jewelry.

Wind down the day with a leisurely stroll along the Ocean Beach Pier, which, at 1,971 feet, is one of the longest concrete piers in the ­country. A casual café is situated about halfway down the pier, making for a nice refueling point.

Nearby Point Loma is home to a small but charming array of restaurants and cafés, as

(FAR LEFT) JOE SCARNICI; (RIGHT AND OPPOSITE) EDWIN SANTIAGO

Coronado

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well as the Cabrillo National Monument, Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery and military installations. The Cabrillo National Monument (see p. 68) offers panoramic vistas stretching from San Diego to Mexico.

There are also hiking trails, tidepools, a historic lighthouse, a bookstore and museum exhibits about conquistador Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, the founder of San Diego.

Mission Beach and Pacific Beach

Two of San Diego’s most popular beaches, Mission Beach and Pacific Beach form an unbroken band of sand that stretches for three miles, from the mouth of Mission Bay to the rocky points of La Jolla. Both are overflowing with restaurants, bars and boutiques.

South Mission Beach is home to serious beach volleyball and bayside basketball games. Farther north, check out the star attraction at the Belmont Park amusement park: the Giant Dipper, a famously restored 1925 wooden roller coaster.

Another landmark dating back to 1925 is Crystal Pier, at the foot of Garnet Avenue in P.B. This 400-foot-long wooden pier is gated and lined with rental cottages. However, the pier is open to the public during the day and is always popular with fishermen.

The best way to experience this area is to walk along the boardwalk, where peoplewatching is not just encouraged; it’s a must. If the nonstop parade of skateboarders, in-liners, bikers, joggers and walkers gets to be too much, walk across Mission Boulevard to the quieter bayside boardwalk. Garnet Avenue and Mission Boulevard form the backbone of this funky, retro retail district, which boasts dozens of small shops filled with surfing

Left to right: John Lennon mural on Garnet Avenue in Pacific Beach; Cabrillo National Monument’s historic lighthouse; dreamy views from Coronado’s shores.

gear, swimsuits and casual wear. Begin the 10-block shopping stroll where the two main streets intersect, then head east. (Note: These are long blocks.)

First order of business: Find that perfect bikini. SunSplash (979 Garnet Ave.) can help, with stylish swimwear and casual beachwear in a wide array of sizes. For the rest of the outfit, try The Fabulous Rag Boutique (829 Garnet Ave.), a quaint shop on the main drag selling women’s clothing in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Farther up Garnet Avenue is Rusty Spokes Vintage Bicycles (1344 Garnet Ave.), which specializes in antique and classic cycles.

Heading south brings you to Mission Beach, home to popular bikini emporium Pilar’s Beachwear (3790 Mission Blvd.).

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Mission Bay Park

Mission Bay Park is a 4,000-acre gathering spot for locals and visitors to enjoy outdoor activities including running, biking, skating, kite-flying, sailing and boating.

Several sportfishing charters depart daily from Mission Bay, and a variety of watercraft can be rented from nearby shops. If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at standup paddleboarding.

The west side of the bay is also home to several resort hotels and world-renowned SeaWorld (see p. 69). Don’t miss the thrilling Shark Encounter and the Turtle Reef exhibition and ride.

For a map of these neighborhoods, see p. 77.

For information about restaurants in this area, please see p. 63.

/ sweet spot

➺ Since the Baked Bear opened in Pacific Beach, lines have regularly formed out the door

for the shop’s signature ice cream sandwiches made with California craft ice cream and your choice of freshly baked cookies, waffles and Ghirardelli brownies. Each made-to-order concoction is handmade, and the more creative the better. Cookie flavors include gluten-free chocolate chip, red velvet, peanut butter and snickerdoodle; along with around a dozen ice cream flavors—from rocky road to strawberry cheesecake to butter pecan. Or opt for an ice cream sundae or old-fashioned root beer float. 4516 Mission Blvd., Pacific Beach, 858.886.7433

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EXPLORING

Uptown

HILLCREST, MISSION HILLS, NORTH PARK, SOUTH PARK: ECLECTIC NEIGHBORHOODS FULL OF CULTURE, CHARACTER AND CHARM.

Hillcrest

The hub of Hillcrest, at the intersection of University and Fifth avenues, is always a buzzing, heavily trafficked scene throughout the day, with cars lined up in both directions and joggers, dog-walkers and coffee-sippers crowding the sidewalks.

Fabulous shopping begins at University and First avenues and runs 12 blocks to Park Boulevard. Shop among 250 herbs, seasonings and gifts at Penzeys Spices (1274 University Ave.); retro urban footwear at Mint (525 University Ave.); and hip men’s fashions and home accents at House Boi (1435 ­University Ave.). Just off the main drag, you’ll find all manner of headgear at the Village Hat Shop (3821 Fourth Ave.). Leave time to peruse 5th Avenue Books (3838 Fifth Ave.) ­and ­Bluestocking Books (3817 Fifth Ave.), whose rustic shelves are lined with out-ofprint and rare tomes.

By night, Hillcrest lights up with restaurants, bars and dance clubs, and a great art-house movie theater, the Landmark (3965 Fifth Ave.).

University Heights and Mission Hills

Northeast of Hillcrest on Park Boulevard lies quaint University Heights, home to ethnic eateries and good shopping at places like Frock You (4121 Park Blvd.), a clothing store

whose helpful staff knows its stuff when it comes to vintage fashion. University Heights also has an astonishing number of cafés for such a small neighborhood, each catering to a different clientele. We love the back patio at quiet, well-designed Monica’s at the Park (1735 Adams Ave.) for a cappuccino break.

The streets of charming Mission Hills, northwest of Hillcrest, are lined with stately homes, quaint cafés and boutiques. Isabela (1111 Fort Stockton Drive) is an elegant skincare boutique known for its face and body treatments, while Maison en Provence (820 Fort Stockton Drive) carries French country home accessories.

Presidio Park, at the western edge of ­this neighborhood, is historically significant as the site of the first European settlement in California (619.692.4918). Scenic trails lead to the neighboring Junípero Serra Museum.

The museum, built in 1929, is a ­replica of the mission erected there in 1769.

North Park

Centered at University Avenue and 30th Street, North Park is San Diego’s newest arts district, thanks in part to the restoration of the historic 1928 Birch North Park Theatre (2891 University Ave.). Gallery-hopping events are held select Saturday nights on and around Ray Street from 6 to 9 p.m.; check out northparkarts.org for details.

The area is also home to dozens of independent clothing and décor boutiques. We love the organic cotton baby clothes and stylish art books sold at Pigment (3801 30th St.), while Mimi & Red (3032 University Ave.) has trendy women’s clothing and accessories. After dark, North Park comes alive with dozens of bars, hipster clubs, eclectic restaurants and lively coffeehouses.

South Park

About a mile south of University on 30th Street lies the quiet neighborhood known as South Park. Though largely residential, South Park has several great eateries and bars, and it’s an ideal place to shop for gifts while supporting local independent merchants.

Favorite retailers in this area include The Grove bookstore (3010 Juniper St.), which also has a crafting nook inside; modern home furnishings and design emporium, Progress (2225 30th St.); and Make Good (2207 Fern St.), with clothing, home accents, jewelry and other items from local crafters.

Have your canine kids with you? Spruce them up at South Bark Dog Wash (2037 30th St.), a widely popular staple of the community, known for its “Blueberry Facial” and fun inventory of doggie treats and toys.

For a map of these neighborhoods, see page 77. For a list of restaurants in this area, please see page 63.

(FAR LEFT AND FAR RIGHT) BJARNE G. JENSEN; (SECOND FROM LEFT) AMY K. FELLOWS; (BOTTOM RIGHT) FEENEY + BRYANT PHOTOGRAPHERS

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Uptown encompasses some of S.D.’s most diverse, artsy and eclectic neighborhoods—including Hillcrest, one of the county’s most progressive areas, as well as North Park, South Park, University Heights and Mission Hills, all of which are filled with Craftsman-style homes, trendy eateries and hipster boutiques.

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Left to right: Presidio Park; a snapshot of University Avenue in North Park; Fifth Avenue in Hillcrest.

G R E AT F I N D

/ comfy cozy

➺ It’s locally sourced comfort food with a modern twist, served in one adorable neighbor-

hood wine-bar setting. Behind the appropriately red front door of The Red Door Restaurant & Bar, guests will find a homey interior dotted with elegant tables, romantic booths and cozy banquettes accented with throw pillows. A small-batch-focused wine list features around 40 selections by the glass or bottle from boutique vineyards. The menu is laden with simple dishes using produce and herbs from The Red Door’s own organic garden. Try the butternut-squash lasagna, lamb meatballs and fruit cobbler. 741 W. Washington St., Mission Hills, 619.295.6000

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EXPLORING

North Coast

DEL MAR, SOLANA BEACH, ENCINITAS, CARLSBAD: THESE CITIES EXEMPLIFY THE GOOD LIFE IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA.

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Del Mar

Del Mar’s celebrity status began more than 70 years ago, when the oceanside paradise became home of the Del Mar Racetrack (2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd.). Celebs Bing Crosby and Pat O’Brien helped establish the track—and its track record for hosting the Hollywood elite at the Thoroughbred Club.

Ava Gardner, W.C. Fields, Lucille Ball, Desi Arnaz, Jimmy Durante and Mickey Rooney were among the regulars in the late 1930s, ‘40s and ‘50s. Today, the racing season runs from mid-July to early September, but exciting events are held at the Del Mar Fairgrounds year-round.

Jimmy Durante Boulevard—named for the famous entertainer who lived in Del Mar— paves the way from the track to the heart of the village. The intersection of Camino del Mar and 15th Street forms Del Mar’s center.

The Del Mar Plaza (see p. 71) has scenic fountains and sweeping ocean views, plus upscale shops like clothing boutiques Gerhard and Peaches en Regalia; Loghman Jewelers, with Italian jewelry and watches; and chains like Banana Republic and Sunglass Hut. There’s more retail along Del Mar’s main street, Camino del Mar, and the area can easily be covered on foot. The shopping district is lined with shops, including Carolyn’s (1310 Camino del Mar), with designer resale items, plus several casual cafés and eateries.

More great shopping is a short drive away. East of the fair­grounds, off I-5 on Via de la Valle, is the recently expanded Flower Hill Promenade (2720 Via de la Valle), where shops include upscale women’s boutique Melero, men’s clothier Patrick James and Dallmann Chocolate Boutique.

At the end of the day, walk to Seagrove Park (Coast Boulevard at 15th Street) to enjoy a brilliant sunset. From the hush of the surf you can almost hear the echo of Bing Crosby, singing the famous jingle he wrote in honor of the celebrated track: Where the turf meets the surf, down at old Del Mar ...

Solana Beach

Solana Beach is home to some of the most chic stores in San Diego County. The Cedros Design District begins at South Cedros Avenue and Lomas Santa Fe Drive, easily accessible by the Coaster, the train that runs from downtown San Diego to Oceanside.

More than 50 shops spanning a quartermile feature fashion, home furnishings and antiques. Most of the boutiques on South Cedros are housed in renovated Quonset huts (iron warehouses shaped like a halfcylinder), giving the ‘hood an artistic feel.

Fuel up for your walking tour of the neighborhood at Claire’s (246 N. Cedros Ave.), across from the train station. It’s the kind of eco-conscious café that provides preferred

parking for electric and hybrid cars. This stretch of Cedros is also home to Susan Street Fine Art, a contemporary art gallery (200 N. Cedros Ave.), and Tobi Blatt (152 N. Cedros Ave.), with women’s clothing from coveted labels.

Cross Lomas Santa Fe to explore South Cedros. We love Cedros Soles (143 S. Cedros Ave.) for the latest footwear; HIS (also at 143 S. Cedros Ave.), a store geared towards the style-minded guy; and Bixby & Ball (214 S. Cedros Ave.), with linens, home décor items and other coastal-lifestyle accessories. Linger long enough to smell the sweet aromas springing from Mistral (146 S. Cedros Ave.), a small bungalow with soaps and lotions imported from France.

You’ll also find hip home décor and art books at Solo (309 S. Cedros Ave.), and everything for the modern garden at colorsplashed Chicweed (240 S. Cedros Ave.).

Nestled among the retail shops is one of the county’s top live music venues: the Belly Up (see p. 73), a Solana Beach landmark for more than 35 years.

Encinitas and Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Heading north on 101 from Solana Beach, you’ll pass through the surf community of Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Be sure to take a picture with the infamous “Cardiff Kook” sculpture.

(FROM LEFT) IAN WHITE, LIMELIFE PHOTOGRAPHY, BJARNE G. JENSEN

San Diego’s North County coastal communities have a certain charm that must be experienced firsthand to fully appreciate. Yes, the pace is a bit slower than other areas, but locals prefer it that way. The North Coast’s many quaint pockets offer the best in boutique shopping, gallery hopping and beaches.

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As you continue north approaching downtown Encinitas, you’ll see a unique silhouette among the palm trees. The Self-Realization Fellowship Retreat and Ashram Center (215 K St.), with its lotus blossom–shaped towers, dates back to 1937. A portion of the grounds is open free to the public. A stroll through the lush, cliffside gardens offers views of surfers at nearby Swami’s Beach (1298 S. Coast Hwy. 101), a popular break for longboarders. Stock up on gear and surfboards at Hansen’s Surf Shop (1105 S. Coast Hwy. 101) Up the road, The Lumberyard’s two-dozen or so shops include stylish clothier Mog & Rue, modern home-and-garden store Grounded and Chuao Chocolatier, whose gourmet sweets are made from the finest Venezuelan chocolate. Don’t miss DeepFling, with silver jewelry from Scandinavian designers. The Lumberyard also has an array of wine bars, eateries and cafés, many with outdoor seating (937 S. Coast Hwy. 101).

In the center of downtown, the historic La Paloma Theatre (471 S. Coast Hwy. 101) has anchored the district since the 1920s and still hosts concerts and independent films.

Boutiques and restaurants also line the strip. Boasting a sprawling Whole Foods, Pacific Station is also home to Icons boutique, with denim, tees, boho-chic blouses and more (687 S. Coast Hwy. 101).

North Coast Highway 101 runs through sleepy Leucadia, where it’s easy to speed right by gems like Lou’s Records (434 N. Coast Hwy. 101), with its selection of hip LPs and CDs, and Ducky Waddles Emporium (414 N. Coast Hwy. 101), with its excellent collection of books on all things artsy or bawdy.

A great cluster of shops is found at The Gold Coast (466 N. Coast Hwy. 101), whose

Left to right: Views from the Self-Realization Fellowship Retreat; Swami’s Cafe; Ocean House in Carlsbad Village.

tenants include stylish children’s boutique Daisy B. A short drive inland leads to San Diego Botanic Garden, a 35-acre treasure showcasing 3,000 rare and exotic plants.

Carlsbad

Downtown Carlsbad is a picturesque seaside village. Along Carlsbad Village Drive, you’ll find famed local landmark Frazier’s Well (2802 Carlsbad Blvd.), where sea captain John Frazier discovered mineral water back in 1882.

Nearby is Carlsbad Village Faire, a shopping center that is home to several casual eateries and shops. Retail on nearby State Street includes antique stores and shops like Fairen Del (2940 State St.), with an assortment of fine leather goods, shoes, handbags, jewelry and other accessories.

G R E AT F I N D

A short drive east of the freeway on Palomar Airport Road leads to great outlet shopping at Carlsbad Premium Outlets (see p. 63), with brand-name stores like BCBG, Kenneth Cole and Michael Kors.

Continuing on Palomar Airport Road from the outlets will lead you to another cluster of attractions. LegoLand (see p. 69) is 128 acres of kid-friendly entertainment that includes the Sea Life Aquarium. Nearby, the Museum of Making Music (see p. 70) is filled with musical memorabilia. La Costa Resort and Spa (2100 Costa del Mar Road) is home to the Chopra Center for Wellbeing. Two miles south of La Costa is The Forum (see p. 71), an outdoor, Spanish-style mall.

For a map of these neighborhoods, see p. 79.

For information about restaurants in this area, please see p. 63.

/ good eats

➺A short stroll from the beach and boasting idyllic sunset views, Flat Rock Eats & Drinks

hits all the right notes as a casual North County eatery on looks alone. With Chef Josh Perkins serving up seasonal, locally sourced California cuisine (most dishes are made from scratch), Flat Rock is already known for its weekend brunch served until 3 p.m. Menu hits include the huevos rancheros, bacon-banana pancakes, a variety of scrambles and its popular $1 mimosas. For dinner, we love the braised-duck flautas, lamb burger and shrimp dumplings. The sunlit patio is perfect for an afternoon glass of wine.102 Aberdeen Drive, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, 760.633.4852

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EXPLORING

Old Town

SAN DIEGO CELEBRATES ITS MEXICAN AND SPANISH COLONIAL HISTORY.

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No trip to San Diego is complete without a stop at historic Old Town, known as the “birthplace of California.” Its charming streets are lined with dozens of iconic landmarks, museums, colorful shops and authentic Mexican restaurants—home to the city’s best handmade tortillas and tastiest margaritas.

On the hilltop overlooking Old Town is the site where, in 1769, Padre Junipero Serra established Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala.

In 1774, Serra’s mission was moved to a location six miles east, but a colony of residents remained there, and the area became known as California’s first permanent European settlement. Today, the Junipero Serra Museum (2727 Presidio Drive) stands on that very same hill, overlooking the festive, historic neighborhood now called Old Town San Diego.

Old Town State Historic Park, a pedestrian-only area spanning six blocks, is home to more than a dozen of San Diego’s earliest buildings—some original, others reproductions—including a general store, Wells Fargo Bank, adobe homes and the first office of the San Diego Union, the city’s oldest newspaper.

Stop in at Rust General Store for some oldtimey candies before checking out Casa de Estudillo, the 1825 home of Spanish aristocrat Don Jose Antonio de Estudillo. Other historical structures include the recently renovated Cosmopolitan Hotel and Seeley Stable Museum, a reconstruction of the 1850s-era stagecoach stop that now houses a collection of vintage carriages. Park aides lead tours of the sites, leaving from the Old Town Visitors Center in the Robinson Rose building, located on the plaza (619.220.5422).

Adjacent to the plaza, Fiesta de Reyes (2754 Calhoun St.) is filled with restaurants and shops that celebrate Mexican and American history; don’t miss the Urban Seed, which not only has a huge selection of heritage vegetable seeds but also French antiques and elegant home décor pieces.

Up the hill at Harney and Juan streets you’ll find the Mormon Battalion, which tells the story of the church military unit that came west to help with the Mexican-American War, and Heritage Park, the site of seven restored Victorian buildings that were moved to this site from downtown San Diego after World War II to escape demolition due to modern development. The park also houses Southern California’s first synagogue, Temple Beth Israel, built in 1889.

More historical sites line San Diego Avenue, which leads out of Old Town State Park to the south. Construction on the gorgeous Church of the Immaculate Conception, still an active Catholic church, began in 1868 in an effort to replace the existing adobe church with a brick structure, but was not completed for more than 50 years.

Farther up San Diego Avenue, behind an adobe wall, is El Campo Santo, the city’s first cemetery, established in 1850, and the San Diego Sheriff’s Museum and Educational Center (2384 San Diego Ave.), built 100 feet from where San Diego’s original ­cobblestone

jail once stood. It features exhibits displaying weapons and equipment used by the county’s 28 ­sheriffs over the past 150 years.

The Casa del Rey Moro Museum (2471 Congress St.) is a treasure of African world ­history, with a focus on the Afro-Spanish, Afro-Mexican and African-American heritage in Old Town and California. Afterward, take in a show at the Old Town Theatre (4040 Twiggs St.), home to the Cygnet Theatre Company.

Shopping

Old Town’s many shops offer everything from authentic goods to touristy tchotchkes. You can browse the large collection of Mexican folk art at Miranda’s Court­yard (2548 Congress St.), or shop for women and children’s fashions made from eco-friendly cotton and alpaca at Wandering Sage (2415 San Diego Ave.). Next door, Gourmet Café has an array of chocolate truffles and other sweets.

On the back side of the park, Taylor Street is home to Bazaar del Mundo (4133 Taylor St.), a two-story emporium of ­international folk arts, fashion, jewelry and home décor. Wind down your shopping day at the Café Coyote Esplanade (2461 San Diego Ave.), home to such quaint shops as South American Imports and Old Town Candy Store.

For a map of this neighborhood, see page 78.

For a list of restaurants in this area, see page 63.

(FAR LEFT) EDWIN SANTIAGO; (RIGHT AND OPPOSITE) ASHOK SINHA

Living History and Culture

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Left to right: Mexican handbags; Old Town’s charming retail fronts; Immaculate Conception Church.

G R E AT F I N D

/ happy hour

➺After touring Old Town, take a load off at Hacienda de las Rosas. The quaint wine and

beer tasting room is an extension of the family-owned Hacienda de las Rosas Winery, which also comprises a Peruvian Paso horse ranch and vineyards in Ramona, Calif. The tasting room emanates a cozy, neighborly vibe—complete with a hand-carved pinewood bar, local artwork dotting the walls, wine-barrel tables and staff members dressed in historical attire. A reasonable fee of $10 gets you five healthy pours from a selection of at least 10 wines, or a selection of craft beers. And don’t miss the house sangria. 2754 Calhoun St., Old Town, 619.840.5557

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EXPLORING

Balboa Park

ART, MUSIC AND PERFORMANCE BLOOM YEAR-ROUND.

➺

Spanning 1,200 acres of lush, beautifully landscaped terrain, Balboa Park is known as San Diego’s “crown jewel,” offering a variety of both cultural and outdoor recreation options for kids and adults alike, not to mention a verdant respite from the bustle of the city’s increasingly metropolitan pace.

Arts & Culture

Performing arts abound in the park. The Old Globe Theatre routinely presents superior theatrical talent in world-renowned productions; winter features include Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (through Dec. 28), Bethany (Jan. 25-Feb. 23) and The Winter’s Tale (Feb. 8-March 16). See p. 66-67 for more theater listings.

Elsewhere in the park, the Marie Hitchcock Puppet Theatre presents whimsical puppet shows, while Spreckels Organ Pavilion houses one of the world’s largest

­ utdoor pipe organs, with some 4,500 pipes. o Free concerts are offered Sundays at 2 p.m.

The park is also home to groups celebrating culture. The House of Pacific Relations International Cottages promotes the heritage of countries around the world by hosting open houses and weekend festivals.

Neighboring WorldBeat Center uses art, music, dance and education to celebrate African and indigenous cultures, while Centro Cultural de la Raza is a multidisciplinary center dedicated to the preservation of Chicano/Latino culture.

The park has a vast array of institutions celebrating the visual arts, past and present.

Known for its presentation of eclectic traveling exhibits, the San Diego Museum of Art also has a trove of Renaissance and Baroque works, plus a large Asian collection. The world-class Museum of Photographic Arts (MOPA) showcases compelling photography and also presents films in its state-ofthe-art theater. Don’t miss the eighth annual youth exhibition by K-12 students: My City, Your City (through Feb. 2).

The Mingei International Museum is dedicated to folk art, craft and design from around the world, while the Timken Museum of Art is home to the Putnam Foundation’s renowned collection of European and Byzantine art, including exquisite Russian religious paintings.

The San Diego Art Institute’s Museum of the Living Artist presents exhibitions by contemporary local artists every four to six weeks, and the historic Spanish Village Art Center is a collection of 37 studios representing more than 200 artists working in media ranging from sculpture to blown glass; the charming courtyard setting is meant to evoke an Old World town square.

Science & History

Balboa Park’s many non-visual-art museums are a huge draw for children, but most distinguish themselves by crafting exhibitions that also appeal to adult sensibilities.

The San Diego Air and Space Museum salutes aviation with 68 original, reproduction and model airplanes and spacecraft.

The Reuben H. Fleet Science Center has interactive science exhibitions and an IMAX Dome theater. The country’s largest multisports museum, the San Diego Hall of Champions has interactive displays inviting sports fans to test their athletic and broadcasting skills. From antiques to hot rods, the San Diego Automotive Museum’s collection illustrates the evolution of the automobile.

The vast San Diego Natural History Museum’s life-sized T-Rex skeleton, fossil exhibits and 3-D theater let visitors explore the natural world via exciting interactive and educational media.

(FROM LEFT) EDWIN SANTIAGO, LIMELIFE PHOTOGRAPHY, ASHOK SINHA

Nestled between palm trees and botanical gardens, ornate Spanish Colonial buildings house many of the park’s museums and art exhibits. Several of the buildings were constructed as part of two world fairs: the Panama-California Exposition in 1915–16, and the California-Pacific International Exposition in 1935–36. ­ It can take more than one day to see and enjoy each museum, garden and attraction.

The Visitors Center (619.239.0512) in the House of Hospitality offers a Passport to Balboa Park, allowing admission to any of the park’s museums for one week. (Keep in mind some museums are closed on Mondays.)

Deluxe ­packages include passes to the neighboring San Diego Zoo. Or go high-tech and let the park’s mobile app be your guide.

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Left to right: Museum of Man and Old Globe Theatre; a panda at the San Diego Zoo; Balboa Park’s charming walkways.

G R E AT F I N D

/ night light

➺Photographer Noah Doely unveils his first solo museum exhibit at the San Diego Museum

of Art, By the Light—a mystical examination of how light entering dark spaces reveals their contours and crevices. The collection of photos goes inside the natural world, following light as its enters caves located under water. Using a pinhole camera, Doely captures dark spaces that at first glance seem to be devoid of any life—cultivating them as intricate dioramas. He explains, “I began by making molds of aquatic rocks, casting them and then reconstructing them into various formations.” Through Feb. 25, 1450 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.7931

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Dedicated to the study of anthropology, the San Diego Museum of Man explores cultures of the world, especially the Americas.

The largest of its kind, the Model Railroad Museum boasts scale models and interactive features for children. The San Diego History Center is for visitors of all ages, featuring interactive and engaging exhibits showcasing San Diego’s storied past. At the Veterans Museum & Memorial Center visitors will find military uniforms from World War I, the Vietnam War and the Korean War, as well as maritime paintings by local artists and other displays.

The Marston House (see p. 69), a Craftsman Prairie-style mansion designed in 1905 by noted architect Irving Gill, is a must for history and architecture buffs; the grounds also feature a carriage house and gardens.

Attractions & Gardens

The park’s major attraction is, of course, the San Diego Zoo (see p. 69), with some 4,000 rare and endangered species.

Among the animal residents you’ll find the much-beloved meerkats, Asian and African elephants, monkeys, birds and more. Be sure to stop by Panda Canyon to say hello to the newest giant panda cub, born in 2012.

After visiting the zoo, try your hand at the brass ring game from your perch atop a hand-carved pony on the Balboa Park Carousel. Both kids and grown-ups are welcome on the Balboa Park Miniature Railroad, which takes a three-minute, half-mile trip through four acres of the park.

The park also features several gardens, a legacy left by its founding “mother,” botanist Kate Sessions. Complete with ornate fountains and colorful tiling, the Spanishstyle Alcazar Garden, which abuts the Art Institute and Mingei Museum, blooms with 7,000 brilliantly colored annuals. The Japanese Friendship Garden features a Zen meditation garden and bonsai exhibit, while the sunken Zoro Garden has an interesting history: It was designed as a nudist colony during the 1935 California-Pacific International Exposition but is now a habitat for monarch, sulfur and swallowtail butterflies. Also built for the Expo, the Old Cactus Garden has succulents and other exotic plants.

With some 2,100 orchids, ferns, poinsettias and other plants, the Botanical Building is among the world’s largest lath structures; along with its gorgeous Lily Pond, it’s one of the park’s most photographed, scenic and romantic sites.

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Recreation

From hiking and jogging to tennis and bocce ball, you’ll find it in the park. The Balboa Park Activity Center has facilities for badminton, table tennis, volleyball and more, while the Balboa Park Municipal Golf Course offers striking views of downtown and Coronado.

At Texas and Upas streets, on the park’s northeast end, the Morley Field Sports Complex is a haven for disc golf fans and other sports nuts, boasting a pool, velodrome, archery range and bocce court. Check in here for information on the many hike and bike trails through Florida Canyon, a popular workout spot for joggers.

The nearby Balboa Tennis Club is open to the public, with 25 courts and a full-service pro shop, plus lessons and clinics.

The dapper, white-clad members of the San Diego Lawn Bowling Club, which has been around for more than 75 years, play seven days a week near the corner of Sixth Avenue and Laurel Street. Visitors are welcome to join the fun and get a free lesson.

There are also a few leash-free dog parks here, including one at Balboa Drive and El Prado, south of the Cabrillo Bridge, and another at Morley Field, northwest of the tennis courts. The park is among the most dog-friendly public recreational properties of its kind in the world. Expect to see dozens both on and off leash at every turn.

Dining

Several casual snack bars and coffee carts can be found throughout the park and inside certain museums. For a sit-down experience, try The Prado, whose lively, colorful interior and charming garden patio—not to mention hearty American cuisine, refreshing salads and exotic South American cocktails—have made it a longtime local favorite.

The Tea Pavilion at the Japanese Friendship Garden serves tea, noodles and sushi in a casual setting, while the Sculpture Court Café at the San Diego Museum of Art is a good bet for salads and sandwiches.

For the at-home gourmand, the Balboa Park Food & Wine School has classes in everything from fondue-making to sushirolling taught by celebrated local chefs, plus wine education. Be sure to make reservations in advance, though, as classes tend to fill up quickly.

A map of Balboa Park is on page 78.

Museums and attractions are listed in the where guide.

San Diego Museum of Man

INSTRUMENTS OF

TORTURE Limited Engagement

1350 El Prado, Balboa Park, San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 239-2001 | www.museumofman.org

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GOLF GUIDE

TEE TIME

DIAL IN YOUR GOLF GAME WITH OUR WINTER GUIDE TO THE GREENS Amid 400 acres in the coastal foothills of Carlsbad, La Costa features two 18-hole courses, including the recently redone championship North Course; a driving range; equipment rental and Southern California’s only TOUR Golf Academy. The last four holes of the South Course are known as “the longest mile in golf.” 2100 Costa del Mar Road, Carlsbad, 800.854.5000

TORREY PINES GOLF COURSE Home of the PGA’s annual Farmers Insurance Open—won by Tiger Woods in January 2013—Torrey Pines is one of the bestknown properties in the U.S. Its two public courses have stunning ocean views from the bluffs above the Pacific, wide fairways

and sloping greens. 11480 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, 858.552.1662

MADERAS GOLF CLUB This Johnny Miller- and Robert Muir Graves–designed course, named by Golf Digest as one of “America’s 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses,” is set in secluded canyons and ravines 20 minutes northeast of downtown—complemented by creeks, lakes, waterfalls and native wildflowers.

This 18-hole course plays to 7,115 yards from the back tees—and with five sets of tees, golfers of all skill levels can enjoy. The renowned maintenance practices of Troon Golf assure championship conditions every single day. 17750 Old Coach Road, Poway, 866.233.0496

PARK HYATT AVIARA The only Arnold Palmer signature golf course in San Diego, Aviara winds through rolling valleys with ocean views. Named

by Golf Digest, Golf and Condé Nast Traveler magazines as one of the best in existence, the resort also welcomes non-guests to play. 7447 Batiquitos Drive, Carlsbad, 760.603.6900

BARONA CREEK GOLF CLUB This par-72 course, spanning 7,088 yards and created by Gary Roger Baird Design, includes 100-plus bunkers and a series of lakes and ponds. It was also the host site for the 2007 Nationwide Tour Championships.

Barona Valley Ranch Resort & Casino, 1932 Wildcat Canyon Road, Lakeside, 619.443.2300

BRIAN OAR, AVIARA GOLF CLUB-HYATT

OMNI LA COSTA RESORT & SPA

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Park Hyatt Aviara

RANCHO BERNARDO INN

THE GRAND GOLF CLUB

This 18-hole championship course features two natural lakes, a driving range with grass or mat tees and a championship yardage of 6,631. The resort has hosted PGA and LPGA events, and offers instruction and clinics by PGA pros. 17550 Bernardo Oaks Drive, Rancho Bernardo, 858.385.8733

Arguably the most scenically breathtaking course in the country, this exclusive golf course at the Grand Del Mar—one of the top luxury resorts in the world—is a true treat to play. Open to resort guests, members and the property’s villa owners, its immaculate, Tom Fazio-designed fairways, rolling greens and dramatic elevations bordering Los Peñasquitos Canyon make for an unforgettable round. 5200 Grand Del Mar Court, Del Mar, 858.314.1930

CORONADO MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE You may have difficulty keeping your eye on the ball at this 18-hole championship course: From the back nine, the views of the Coronado Bridge and the San Diego skyline across the bay can be beautifully distracting. 2000 Visalia Row, Coronado, 619.435.3121

SYCUAN RESORT Set amid rugged mountains and natural rock outcroppings, Sycuan Resort is a 25-minute drive east from downtown San Diego. There are two, 18-hole championship courses

and an 18-hole executive course spread over some 425 acres. Also onsite is a golf school designed exclusively for women of all ages and skill levels, taught by LPGA professionals. 3007 Dehesa Road, El Cajon, 619.442.3425

SALT CREEK GOLF CLUB Carved through the foothills of Mount Miguel, this 280-acre layout is a links design

by John Cook. It features three lakes, 78 bunkers and plenty of lush wetlands. The scenic course is surrounded by a wildlife refuge—not housing developments. Five sets of tees make it playable for all levels, measuring 6,889 yards from the back tees and 5,505 from the forward tees. 525 Hunte Parkway, Chula Vista, 619.656.2373

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where

the guide WINTER 2014

DINING

Heat Wave Spicing up the Gaslamp Quarter, Viva Bar & Kitchen brings a Latin flair to the space formerly occupied

by Red Light District restaurant. The sleek décor feels sexy, modern and vibrant, with a meld of metals and warm woods offset by splashes of fiery red. The globally inspired, mostly small-plates-style menu pulls from Spanish, Mexican, Cuban, Peruvian, Puerto Rican and Caribbean influences. To start, choose from a selection of street tacos or tapas; the spicy mussels and coriander BBQ ribs are addicting. As an entrée, the Camarones de Diablo is a favorite—with jumbo shrimp, polenta coins and cotija cheese. Or go for the traditional paella with mussels, shrimp, scallops, chicken, sausage and saffron risotto. 409 F St., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.255.2800

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Dining SPOTLIGHT

American THE 3RD CORNER WINE SHOP & BISTRO Combining a casual French-American bistro with a retail wine shop, these popular spots give foodies a wealth of pairing options at any budget. L, D (daily till 2 a.m.; closed M in O.B.). 2265 Bacon St., Ocean Beach, 619.223.2700, Map J8; 897 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.942.2104. $$ Map W22 AMAYA LA JOLLA Enjoy Southern-tinged, contemporary dishes like buttermilk-fried quail and smoked mac ‘n’ cheese appetizers, slow-roasted pork chop or braised veal osso buco cannelloni. Plus nearly 300 wines on offer.

L, D (daily). 1205 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.750.3695. $$$ Map W19 BANKERS HILL BAR AND RESTAURANT Mismatched antique chairs decorate this casual spot with an urbanindustrial vibe. A seasonal menu includes pork tacos and an excellent burger. D (nightly). 2202 Fourth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.231.0222. $$$ Map O16

Pizza by Design It’s artisanal pizza designed and eaten by you. Project Pie is the trendy, mod Hillcrest eatery where the customer literally is always right. Its fun, build-your-own pizza menu makes you the artist, offering around 30 toppings that include everything from traditional pepperoni to less-common items such as crumbled meatballs, Canadian bacon and sea salt. A menu of seven standard pies serves as a backup for patrons not feeling especially creative; we love the White Pizza with prosciutto and caramelized onions. And don’t miss the Nutella-and-banana pizza for dessert. A custom pie with unlimited toppings comes with a price tag of about $10 bucks. Not bad for a work of art. 3805 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.756.6677

BARLEYMASH This spacious brick-walled sports bar serves burgers, spicy beer-boiled prawns and hearty “Barley pie”; find martinis galore at Ginger’s cocktail lounge downstairs. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 600 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.255.7373. $$ Map Q16 BERTRAND AT MISTER A’S Incredible 12th-floor views and romantic ambiance complemented by fresh, seasonal ingredients. Appetizers range from mac ‘n’ cheese to panseared scallops, plus an outstanding wine list. The new brunch menu features creative Bloody Marys. L (M–F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 2550 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.239.1377. $$$$ Map O16 BROCKTON VILLA An 1894 cottage with a spectacular ocean view. Try the Coast Toast, a French toast soufflé from the breakfast menu. B, L, D (daily). 1235 Coast Blvd., La Jolla, 858.454.7393. $$ Map W19 BROOKLYN GIRL EATERY This trendy neighborhood joint is known for its complimentary daily popcorn and urban Brooklyn pantry vibe. Grab a casual lunch of matzo ball soup, or dress up—and carb up—for dinner with the addictive gnocchi and short rib entrée. 4033 Goldfinch St., Mission Hills, 619.296.4600. $$$ Map M15 CHAPLOS Downtown’s 1920s-inspired restaurant serves up American dishes with gourmet twists, such as the slowly braised apple-ale pork ribs. L (M-F), D (Tu-Sa), Br (Su). 925 B St., downtown, 619.798.3888. $$$ Map P16 CHART HOUSE Seafood and steakhouse has picturesque coastline location with floor-to-ceiling windows.

Indulge in hot chocolate lava cake for dessert. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 2588 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, 760.436.4044. $$$ Map W22 CRAFT + COMMERCE Gastropub-inspired food such as roasted bone marrow, fried pickles and bacon Cracker Jacks, plus handcrafted cocktails by the city’s top bartenders, local beers and a lively, social bar atmosphere.

L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 675 W. Beech St., Little Italy, 619.269.2202. $$$ Map P15 CRAFTSMAN NEW AMERICAN TAVERN The duckfat fries are sinfully tasty at this stylish Encinitas watering hole. Other favorites on its American comfort food menu include the Devil’s Free Range Chicken, deep-fried Brussels sprouts and Root Beer Cake. 267 El Camino Real, Encinitas, 760.452.2000. $$ Map V22 DICK’S LAST RESORT Buckets of ribs, catfish and crab legs served by a purposefully irreverent waitstaff, plus 66 beers and live music (Th-Sa). A fun, casual hangout in the Gaslamp. L, D (daily). 345 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.231.9100. $$ Map Q16

Guidelines

Restaurants are listed by city on page 63. Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps on pages 76-79. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.

Index American...............................48 Breakfast................................ 49 California Cuisine............... 50 Chinese................................... 50 Desserts................................. 50 Eclectic/Fusion......................51 French.......................................51 International..........................52

Italian........................................53 Japanese................................ 54 Mexican/Southwestern...55 Seafood................................56 Steak......................................57 Thai........................................58 Wine Bars............................59

FIREFLY Modern cuisine and indoor plus patio dining with views of Mission Bay; choose from 40-plus wines by the glass, as well as wine and microbrew tasting flights.

Happy hour daily. The Dana on Mission Bay, 1710 W. Mission Bay Drive, Mission Bay, 619.225.2125. $$ Map I8 HERRINGBONE Expect farm-to-sea American dishes with global influences, handcrafted cocktails and 100-year-old olive trees enhancing the décor at this upscale hotspot by Brian Malarkey. 7837 Herschel Ave., La Jolla, 858.459.0221. $$$ Map W19 HORNBLOWER Celebrate a special occasion or surprise your sweetheart with a three-hour dinner cruise aboard a luxury yacht along San Diego’s stunning waterfront.

Enjoy a three-course meal, chilled champagne and dancing. D (nightly). 1800 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.686.8715. $$ Map Q14 JIMMY’S FAMOUS AMERICAN TAVERN Spicy California cheeseburgers and specialty cocktails served in a fun, casual bayside venue; outdoor patio offers great marina views. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 4990 N. Harbor Drive, Point Loma, 619.226.2103. $$ Map K9 THE MED La Valencia’s charming, Mediterranean-villastyle eatery features locally sourced, sustainable dishes such as fried poussin and an ocean-view terrace. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). 1132 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.551.3741. $$ Map W19 NEIGHBORHOOD This gastropub is a bit snobbish about its condiments (you’ll find no ketchup here), but makes up for it with tasty gourmet burgers, hand-cut sweet potato fries with blue cheese crumbles and around 30 craft brews. L, D (daily). 777 G St., East Village, 619.446.0002. $$ Map Q16 SEA & SMOKE Wood-fired meat, seafood and veggies are the menu stars at this North County spot where sharing plates family-style is encouraged. Inventive side dishes include duck-fat-roasted potatoes, braised-bacon kale and yellow-beet gratin. B, L, D (daily). 2690 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.925.8212. $$ Map X22 SEARSUCKER At this always-hopping hotspot, Top Chef finalist Brian Malarkey crafts a bold, flavorful menu that ranges from a mammoth 32-oz. rib eye to mini appetizer bites. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 611 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.7327, Map Q16; 12995 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.369.5700. $$$ Map X22 SLATER’S 50/50 Design your own gourmet burger, or choose from one of 10 specialty burgers, including the Peanut Butter & Jellousy burger with peanut butter, strawberry jelly and bacon. Signature patty is the 50/50 with ground beef and bacon. L, D (daily); B (Su). 2750 Dewey Road, #193, Point Loma, 619.398.2600. $$ Map J9

Looking to have your canine family member join you for a nice meal out? Pets are more than welcome at The Patio on Lamont Street, listed on p. 50.

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Dining SOLACE & THE MOONLIGHT LOUNGE The second of three eateries (and counting) in Chef Matt Gordon’s upscale-comfort-food empire, this North County favorite focuses on seafood. The communal table is great for groups. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 25 East E St., Encinitas, 760.753.2433. $$$ Map W22 STACKED This innovative, build-your-own-burger bar at Fashion Valley Mall, where guests order directly from an iPad, lets you customize every component of your meal and dining experience. Create your dream burger.

L, D (daily). 7007 Friars Road, #356, Fashion Valley, 619.225.7900. $ Map E2 STATION TAVERN Expect a cool, architectural indoor/ outdoor, family-friendly space with picnic tables, serving up craft beers and burgers. Also try the locally sourced farmers market salad with a side of sweet potato fries.

L, D (Tu-Su). 2204 Fern St., South Park, 619.255.0657. $ Map K12 TRACTOR ROOM This dimly lit spot is decked out in hunting-lodge chic, with a game-heavy menu that includes crispy elk ravioli and venison meatloaf, plus craft cocktails.

(Oh, and the corn bread that arrives on the side is enough to satisfy six people.) D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 3687 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.543.1007. $$$ Map N16 UNION KITCHEN & TAP Beer, craft cocktails, boutique wines and tavern-style grub are all on the menu. Choose from 20 rotating taps of mostly local brews to wash down a bison burger or sweet potato poutine. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1108 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.230.2337. $$ Map V22 URBAN SOLACE Neighborhood joint features updated New American comfort cuisine and an intriguing wine, craft beer and cocktail list. Locals love the warm cheese biscuits and Sunday bluegrass brunch. L, D (daily); Br (Su).

3823 30th St., North Park, 619.295.6464. $$$ Map N17

Breakfast BEACH GRASS CAFÉ A breezy and casually chic eatery by the beach serves up a health-conscious menu of granola, flapjacks, salads and more. B, L, D (daily). 159 S. Highway 101, Solana Beach, 858.509.0632. $$ Map X22 BRIAN’S 24 Old-school clubby spot features a mahogany bar, crystal chandelier and 24-hour dining (midnight brunch, anyone?). Burgers, steaks and chicken ‘n’ waffles, too. B, L, D (daily). 828 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.702.8410. $ Map Q16 CAFÉ 222 Locals line up in droves for Café 222’s quirky American cuisine and whimsical décor. Popular menu items include the peanut butter waffle with bananas at breakfast; tuna melts, salads and more at lunch. B, L (daily). 222 Island Ave., downtown, 619.236.9902. $ Map R15 THE COTTAGE Housed in a charming turn-of-thecentury home complete with garden patio, the Cottage is hugely ­popular for breakfast (don’t miss the coffee cake). Sandwiches, salads and burgers at lunch. B, L (daily); D (Tu-Sa). 7702 Fay Ave., La Jolla, 858.454.8409. $ Map W19 HASH HOUSE A GO GO Huge portions of “twisted farm food” that will make your eyes bulge: egg scrambles and more arrive on massive platters, speared with a giant rosemary branch. Expect a long wait at weekend brunch. B, L (daily); D (Tu-Su). 3628 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.298.4646. $$ Map N16 ISABEL’S CANTINA This cool, casual spot near the beach serves health-conscious, bold-flavored Latin and Asian-influenced fare, from tamales to udon noodles. For breakfast, try the soy-chorizo scramble, blackberry-banana pancakes or the Power Burrito with egg whites and grilled chicken. B, L, D (daily). 966 Felspar St., Pacific Beach, 858.272.8400. $$ Map H7

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Dining The Patio’s fresh veggie wrap

THE MISSION This super-popular mini-chain of vegetarian-friendly spots is known for pancakes, French toast, smoothies, breakfast burritos and health-conscious Latin dishes. B, L (daily). 3795 Mission Blvd., Mission Beach, 858.488.9060; 2801 University Ave., North Park, 619.220.8992; 1250 J St., East Village, 619.232.7662. $ RICHARD WALKER’S PANCAKE HOUSE Popular downtown spot with a huge selection of mouthwatering flapjacks and other breakfast and lunch fare. Favorites include the baked apple pancake. B, L (daily). 520 Front St., downtown, 619.231.7777. $ Map Q15 SNOOZE, AN A.M. EATERY This bright, energetic breakfast joint features breakfast and brunch faves like eggs Benedict, pancakes, French toast, breakfast cocktails, a fun coffee menu and even a breakfast pot pie. Also a great lunch spot. B, L (daily). 3940 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.500.3344, Map N16; 3435 Del Mar Heights Road, Del Mar, 858.703.5300. $$ Map X22

California Cuisine 1500 OCEAN House-made pastas and adventurous starters with bold, inventive flavors define this specialoccasion spot in Coronado, complete with an intimate ocean-view terrace, beach cabanas and a wine cellar.

D (Tu-Sa). Hotel del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.522.8490. $$$$ Map L10 ARTERRA A favorite power-lunch spot with seasonal menu, plus a sushi bar and outdoor lounge with fire pits and cabanas. B (daily), L (M–F), D (M–Sa). Mariott Del Mar, 11966 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.369.6032. $$$ Map X22 BLUEFIRE GRILL Omni La Costa Resort’s stylish destination dining spot serves coastal delicacies and seasonal vegetables. Elegant setting with indoor waterfall and outdoor fire pits. D (Tu-Sa). 2100 Costa del Mar Road, Carlsbad, 760.929.6306. $$$ Map T22 CUSP DINING & DRINKS Head 11 stories up at Hotel La Jolla for Mediterranean-influenced California cuisine.

Choose from an array of savory small plates; a favorite is the crispy pork belly starter. 7955 La Jolla Shores Drive, La Jolla, 858.551.3620. $$$ Map V20 EAT AT THE PEARL Executive Chef Jaison Burke oversees a coastal California menu at EAT at The Pearl, the boutique hotel’s retro-cool eatery. Expect seasonal, local dishes where simple flavors rule; we love the duck confit and gluten-free gnocchi. D (M-Sa), Br (Su). 1410 Rosecrans St., Point Loma, 619.226.6100. $$ Map J8 THE FLYING PIG PUB AND KITCHEN This foodieapproved restaurant features farm-to-table cuisine focused on Cali-infused American dishes. Think handmade pasta, organic salads and Duroc pork belly. 626 S. Tremont St., Oceanside, 760.453.2940. $$$ Map S22

GEORGE’S AT THE COVE La Jolla institution comprises three levels (from elegant to casual) of ocean views. Chef Trey Foshee creates seafood, steak and regional cuisine. Mid-level bar is a great happy hour spot.

L, D (daily). 1250 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.4244. $$$$ Map W19

TABLE 926 Intimate bistro features upscale casual cuisine that highlights seasonal, local flavors. Entrées range from fish, chicken and duck to pork tenderloin, lamb ragu and a burger, plus local brews and an extensive wine list. D (Tu-Su). 926 Turquoise St., Pacific Beach, 858.539.0926. $$ Map H7

GRANT GRILL Expect seasonal dishes with ingredients native to the region—jumbo diver scallops are a signature dish—while Jeff Josenhans crafts mixology magic behind the bar, all housed inside the historic US Grant Hotel. B, L, D (daily). 326 Broadway, downtown, 619.744.2077. $$$$ Map Q16

WHISKNLADLE Chef Ryan Johnston uses local organic ingredients in back-to-basics dishes like roasted bone marrow and chorizo-date fritters. Exceptional craft cocktails.

Outdoor patio is great for people-watching in La Jolla. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1044 Wall St., La Jolla, 858.551.7575. $$$ Map W19

GREAT MAPLE This upscale “diner” serves well-crafted comfort food and serious drinks. Choose from salads, burgers, sandwiches, seafood, pasta and flatbread pizzas, but save room for house-made apple pie or maple-bacon doughnuts. B, L (M-F); D (Tu-Su); Br (Sa-Su). 1451 Washington St., Hillcrest, 619.255.2282. $$ Map N17

Chinese

JAYNE’S GASTROPUB Gastronomy meets pub grub at this UK-inspired casual eatery in North Park. Don’t miss the Jayne burger and eclectic wines. D (Tu-Sa). 4677 30th St., North Park, 619.563.1011. $$$ Map J12 JSIX Modern restaurant in Hotel Solamar features seasonal foods inspired by the coastline and area farms, lots of handcrafted elements and wines from Washington to Baja. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 616 J St., Gaslamp, 619.531.8744. $$$ Map Q16 JRDN Hip restaurant and bar at Tower 23 hotel has steak and seafood dishes, plus a full raw bar and happy hour specials. Patio offers boardwalk and ocean views, plus fun people-watching. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 723 Felspar St., Pacific Beach, 858.270.5736. $$$ Map H7 KITCHEN 1540 Farm-to-table is the concept at this eatery at the famed L’Auberge Del Mar hotel. Expect simple, seasonal dishes such as whole roasted Tai snapper and pan-seared black cod. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1540 Camino del Mar, Del Mar, 858.793.6460. $$$$ Map X22 MARKET RESTAURANT + BAR Chef Carl Schroeder crafts modern cuisine using local produce, handmade cheeses and locally raised meat. Highlights include the blue cheese soufflé, market veggie tasting and desserts such as the sinful Meyer lemon-cream crepes. D (nightly). 3702 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.523.0007. $$$$ Map X22 NINE-TEN Inside the Grande Colonial Hotel, awardwinning Chef Jason Knibb creates evolving California cuisine from local, organic ingredients. The Jamaican jerk pork-belly appetizer and the braised short rib entrée are highlights. B, L, D (daily). 910 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.964.5400. $$$ Map V19 THE PATIO ON LAMONT STREET This popular neighborhood nook in Pacific Beach by owner Gina Champion-Cain features craft cocktails, beer and a global menu with California influences. Expect such dishes as the braised pork shank with bacon-and-asiago risotto. Canine family members are welcome here. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 4445 Lamont St., Pacific Beach, 858.412.4648. $$ Map H8 PREPKITCHEN LITTLE ITALY Its stylish second-story locale makes for a fabulous alternative to the Italian eateries in the area. Daily specials include always-changing items such as the farmers market flatbread and local halibut as the fresh catch. Menu changes seasonally. 1660 India St., Little Italy, 619.398.8383. $$$ Map P15 STARLITE Dazzling design complements sustainably farmed food and boutique cocktails at this ultra-hip restaurant/bar in Midtown. Don’t miss the burger on brioche and the signature Starlite Mule. Snag a seat around the main bar or on the back patio. D (nightly), Br (Su). 21+. 3175 India St., Midtown, 619.358.9766. $$ Map O15

DEL MAR RENDEZVOUS Upscale Chinese bistro featuring entrées like Mongolian rack of lamb and steak Shangri-La, plus handmade dumplings and sauces made in-house. L (M-Sa), D (nightly). 1555 Camino del Mar #102, Del Mar, 858.755.2669. $$ Map X22 DUMPLING INN This popular hole-in-the-wall serves up some of the finest Chinese cuisine in the city. Menu standouts include the kung pao sea bass, shrimp chow mein, Szechuan pork and deep-fried beef-curry dumplings. L, D (Tu-Su). 4619 Convoy St., Kearny Mesa, 858.268.9638. $$ Map R16 JASMINE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Popular for dim sum, this casual spot also serves authentic Hong Kongstyle seafood, duck and barbecue entrées at dinner. L, D (daily). 4609 Convoy St., Kearny Mesa, 858.268.0888. $$ Map G11 WANG’S NORTH PARK A former JC Penney’s becomes a sophisticated resto-lounge with a wide-ranging menu of Asian dishes and creative cocktails. D (nightly). 3029 University Ave., North Park, 619.291.7500. $$ Map N18

Desserts CUPS Retro-styled organic cupcake lounge features vegan and gluten-free options plus cheekily named standards like the Elvis (chocolate cake with banana cream filling and peanut buttercream). Open daily. 7857 Girard Ave., La Jolla, 858.459.2877. $ Map W19 D BAR SAN DIEGO This stylish full-service restaurant serves cocktails, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch, but save plenty of room for dessert. Known for its pastries and unique creations, D Bar’s dessert menu is exceptional; try the molten cake with a truffle center. 3930 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.299.3227. $$ Map N16 ECLIPSE CHOCOLATE BAR & BISTRO The region’s leading artisan chocolatier recently relocated to South Park, now housing a restaurant component and retail space under one roof. Sip craft beer and peruse chocolates, pastries and confections. B, L, D (daily). 2145 Fern St., South Park, 619.578.2984. $$ Map J12 EXTRAORDINARY DESSERTS Topped with edible flowers and gold flakes, Karen Krasne’s stunning tarts, cakes and other treats are truly extraordinary. A must-try spot to satisfy that sweet tooth. Open daily at both locations. 1430 Union St., Little Italy, 619.294.7001, Map P16; 2929 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.294.2132. $$ Map O16 HEAVENLY CUPCAKE This sweets boutique rotates flavors daily, from banana to mocha chip to red velvet.

Cupcakes are handbaked and frosted every morning the old-fashioned way. Open daily. 518 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.235.9235. $ Map Q16 MICHELE COULON DESSERTIER A longtime favorite among La Jolla locals, the renowned Michele Coulon whips up tortes, pies, cakes, confections, homemade jams, breads and quiches using local organic products—all made from scratch. (M-Sa). 7556-D Fay Ave., La Jolla, 858.456.5098. $ Map W19

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prime steaks. Legendary service.

Fine Wine • private dining • exquisite menu

Eclectic/Fusion BALI HAI Tiki oasis has a Polynesian menu, featuring Korean barbecued ribs and wok-fried whole striped bass, plus fabulous bay views and stiff Mai Tais. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). 2230 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.222.1181. $$$ Map K9 GANG KITCHEN A 5,000-square-foot warehouse has been transformed by local restaurateur Jon Mangini into an urban, Asian-inspired eatery. The multi-Asian menu is filled with dumplings, noodles and such dishes as Shanghai beef and Szechwan lobster crepes. D (nightly). 345 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.550.1600. $$$ Map Q16 ROPPONGI Cutting-edge eatery with stylish décor, including a wall-sized aquarium and outdoor fireplace.

Its list of Pacific Rim–style tapas is as extensive as it is excellent. We love the spicy albacore-jalapeño sushi roll.

L, D (daily). 875 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.551.5252. $$$ Map W19

French 100 WINES HILLCREST This cozy French bistro and wine den serves Euro-style comfort food, from phyllocrusted sweetbreads to bone marrow with brandied cherries. D (nightly). 1027 University Ave., Hillcrest, 619.491.0100. $$$ Map N16

The Harbor Club | 285 J Street | 619-696-3369 | mortons.com /sandiego

ADDISON Chef William Bradley creates deliriously tasty, elegant dishes from local ingredients with French influences at this ultra-fine-dining restaurant at the Grand Del Mar. D (Tu-Sa). 5200 Grand Del Mar Way, Del Mar, 858.314.1900. $$$$ Map X22 BO-BEAU Chef Katherine Humphus’ classic French dishes (boeuf bourguignon, chicken fricasse) are served in a cozy and inviting atmosphere in bohemian Ocean Beach. Great spot for conversation and date nights. D (nightly). 4996 W. Point Loma Blvd., Ocean Beach, 619.224.2884. $$$ Map J8 BLEU BOHEME Kensington’s charming bistro, with its candlelit rooms and old-world European ambiance, is known for its traditional French fare—including mussels, coq au vin and boeuf bourguignon. Excellent wine list. L, D (daily). 4090 Adams Ave., Kensington, 619.255.4167. $$$ Map I12 CAFÉ CHLOE Locals’ fave offers afternoon “urban tea” (booking required) and bistro cuisine like smoked trout salad, cheese plates and moules frites in a casually elegant setting, complete with patio. B, L, D (daily). 721 Ninth Ave., East Village, 619.232.3242. $$ Map Q17 FARM HOUSE CAFÉ At this quaint ‘hood spot, Chef Olivier Bioteau serves up rustic French-countryside cuisine (like pain perdu with lavender honey) in a cozy, casual setting; tiny patio, too. D (Tu-Su), Br (Su). 2121 Adams Ave., University Heights, 619.269.9662. $$$ Map I12 MARINE ROOM Outstanding nouveau French food such as macadamia-pesto-crusted salmon and artisan cheeses

by Chef Bernard Guillas in an unparalleled oceanfront location (at high tide, waves can reach the windows!). D (nightly). 2000 Spindrift Drive, La Jolla, 858.459.7222. $$$$ Map W20 MILLE FLEURS This über-romantic restaurant is a classic date spot in remote, exclusive Rancho Santa Fe. The cuisine is creative, updated French/California (think: escargot and whole dover sole meunière). L (Tu–F), D (nightly). 6009 Paseo Delicias, Rancho Santa Fe, 858.756.3085. $$$$ Map W23 PAMPLEMOUSSE GRILLE Chef Jeffrey Strauss brings an imaginative flair to his country French–influenced American menu in a quirky, casually elegant setting near the racetrack. L (F), D (nightly). 514 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.792.9090. $$$$ Map W22

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Dining THE SMOKING GOAT This cozy neighborhood bistro serves up French and American cuisine with a countryside flair. Expect such dishes as the braised prime short ribs and stuffed banderra quail. D (Tu-Su). 3408 30th St., North Park, 619.955.5295. $$$ Map J12 TAPENADE Chef Jean-Michel Diot’s traditional preparations incorporate Mediterranean ­flavors from regions beyond France. Decadent and savory desserts as well as vegetarian options. L (Tu–F), D (nightly). 7612 Fay Ave., La Jolla, 858.551.7500. $$$ Map W19

SOLACE & THE MOONLIGHT LOUNGE | Solace & the Moonlight Lounge

is built on the foundations of simplicity, honest food and exemplary service. Beyond seafood-driven dining, mixed with plates of classic yet modern American cuisine, lies Chef Matt Gordon’s commitment to smart sourcing, sustainability and total elimination of all artificial ingredients. Located in a LEED certified building, this Encinitas hot spot also features live music on Sundays.

25 East E Street, Encinitas 760.753.2433 eatatsolace.com

International ALCHEMY Comfort food with an international twist, using regional, sustainable ingredients—plus weekly vegetarian tasting menus—in a low-key neighborhood setting. Bacon-infused vodka in the Hail Mary is a brunch highlight. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1503 30th St., South Park, 619.255.0616. $$$ Map K12 BERTA’S LATIN AMERICAN Latin American specialties can be sampled via generously apportioned tapas in this little Old Town cottage. Entrées like Brazilian vatapá should not be missed. L, D (Tu–Su). 3928 Twiggs St., Old Town, 619.295.2343. $$ Map N13 CAFÉ SEVILLA A celebrated staple of the Gaslamp, Sevilla still serves up the same Spanish tapas, seafood specialties and flamenco and salsa lessons that have made it a longtime local favorite. D (nightly). 353 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.5979. $$$ Map R16 CHOPAHN Enjoy authentic Afghan cuisine including Aushak (steamed dumpling filled with leek and onion) and an array of California wines in a serene setting just off the Gaslamp’s crowded main drag. L (W-Su), D (nightly). 750 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.236.9236. $$$ Map R16

SEA & SMOKE | Sea & Smoke explores

modern and fresh interpretations of American dishes that celebrate simplicity and healthful integrity. Focusing on the flavors of the centrally located wood-fired oven, the American-style brasserie offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. Keeping true to Chef Matt Gordon’s principles and commitment to healthful living, Sea & Smoke serves responsibly sourced meats, seafood and vegetables.

2690 Via de la Valle, Del Mar 858.925.8212 seaandsmoke.com

COSTA BRAVA Coastal eatery serves Spain’s greatest hits, from jamón iberico to paella to tapas—and don’t forget the sangria. Live music offered throughout the week. L, D (daily). 1653 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach, 858.273.1218. $$$ Map H8 GLASS DOOR With views spanning across Little Italy and the bay from its fourth-floor indoor/outdoor space, Glass Door focuses on a seafood-based international menu—drawing influence from the major culinary capitals of the world. Try the gnocchi with smoked pork and the lobster risotto. 1835 Columbia St., Little Italy, 619.564.3755. $$ Map P15 MONSOON Authentic Northern Indian cuisine in a chic environment. Bounteous lunch buffet; entrées include Bangalore masala and lamb curry. Signature cocktails and wines by the glass. L, D (daily). 729 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.234.5555. $$$ Map Q16 THE PRADO The Prado’s dramatic garden patio is the perfect setting for a drink or a bite after sightseeing in Balboa Park. The eclectic American menu is spiked with Latin/Italian flair. L (daily), D (Tu-Su). 1549 El Prado, House of Hospitality, Balboa Park, 619.557.9441. $$$ Map O17 EL Q’ERO A rare Peruvian restaurant in North County, featuring regional classics such as lomo saltado and the signature beverage, chicha morada, made from purple corn. Perfect for a cozy, casual dinner. L (Tu-Sa), D (M-Sa). 564 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.753.9050. $$ Map V22 REI DO GADO Brazilian-style steakhouse serves succulent mesquite-cooked beef and pork, brought tableside on skewers until you tell them to stop. L, D (daily). 939 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.702.8464. $$$ Map Q16 SOLTAN BANOO Eclectic, casual Persian restaurant featuring lamb, beef, vegan and curry dishes with fragrant basmati rice. L (daily), D (nightly). 4645 Park Blvd., University Heights, 619.298.2801. $$ Map M18

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Experience a FRESH APPROACH

Dining Italian ACQUA AL 2 Sister restaurant to a like-named establishment in Florence, Italy, this spot (a Padres player favorite) serves fresh, Tuscan-style pastas and steaks in a bistro-style setting. L (M–F), D (nightly). 322 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.230.0382. $$$ Map Q16 ALEXANDER’S Romantic neighborhood eatery known for its darling back patio, white-on-white décor, traditional pasta dishes and its White Room pizza with chicken and pesto. D (nightly). 3391 30th St., North Park, 619.281.2539. $$ Map J12 ARRIVEDERCI Charming Hillcrest restaurant with sidewalk seating draws locals for its daily gnocchi. Sandwiches, pizzas, salads and wines also available. L, D (daily). 3845 Fourth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.299.6282. $$$ Map N16

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ASTI Northern Italian with a bistro feel, fresh seafood and steak specialties. Bustling patio dining area makes for great people-watching. L, D (daily). 728 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.232.8844. $$$ Map Q16 BENCOTTO This slick, airy spot in the modern Q building earns raves for simple but well-executed create-your-own pasta dishes and other Italian specialities. Great spot for people-watching on weekend evenings. L, D (Tu-Su). 750 W. Fir St., Little Italy, 619.450.4786. $$$ Map P15 BICE Milanese authenticity from Chef Mario Cassineri in the heart of downtown; don’t miss the cheese and salumi bar. Great cocktails, too. D (nightly). 425 Island Ave., Gaslamp, 619.239.BICE. $$$ Map Q16 BUCA DI BEPPO Family-style platters of ravioli al pomodoro or spaghetti and meatballs served up in a kitschy and friendly atmosphere. L, D (daily). 705 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.7272. $$ Map Q16 CUCINA URBANA Crowded, chic neighborhood hotspot features house-made pastas, baked pizzas and Italian farm-to-table cuisine. Wash it down with a houseinfused cocktail or a selection from the on-site retail wine shop. L (Tu-F), D (nightly). 505 Laurel St., Bankers Hill, 619.239.2222. $$$ Map O16 DAVANTI ENOTECA Lively hotspot serves rustic Italian shareable plates like mascarpone polenta, plus pasta, pizza and salumi. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1655 India St., Little Italy, 619.237.9606, Map P15; 12955 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.519.5060. $$$ Map X22 IL FORNAIO Authentic Italian recipes including excellent pasta, pizza and regional specialties paired with handmade breads. Coronado location has great bay views of the downtown skyline. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1555 Camino del Mar #301, Del Mar, 858.755.8876, Map X22; 1333 First St., Coronado, 619.437.4911. $$$ Map L10

Indoor and patio dining with views of Mission Bay Offering over 40 wines by the glass Wine and micro brew tasting flights Happy hour daily

ISOLA PIZZA BAR Modern, casually elegant Italian restaurant and bar featuring a romantic back patio, front sidewalk patio and delicious hand-tossed pizzas baked in a stone wood-burning oven. 1526 India St., Little Italy, 619.255.4230. $$$ Map P15 JACK & GIULIO’S Known for its scampi and spaghetti and meatballs, this Old Town Italian spot is a local favorite.

Excellent wines for pairing. D (nightly). 2391 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.294.2074. $$$ Map N14 LA VILLA Chic Little Italy newcomer with lively patio brings a farm-to-table sensibility to the neighborhood.

Signature dishes include crispy-skin Scottish salmon with braised escarole. L, D (daily). 1646 India St., Little Italy, 619.255.5221. $$$ Map P16

Located at The Dana on Mission Bay 1710 West Mission Bay Drive, San Diego • 619.225.2125

MONELLO The vibe is casual-glam, with the menu focusing on Milanese street food—pizzas, flatbreads, gelato, a daily aperitivo from 4-7 p.m. with hosted nibbles from the chef, and its signature vermouth. B, L, D (Tu-Su). 750 W. Fir St., Little Italy, 619.501.0030. $$$ Map P15

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Dining OLD VENICE Local favorite boasts easygoing, candlelit atmosphere, white-on-white décor and Italian cuisine with Mediterranean flavors. Enjoy dishes like the spicy Roma shrimp and chicken picatta. L (M–Sa), D (nightly). 2910 Cañon St., Point Loma, 619.222.5888. $$$ Map K8 PIATTI Delicious pastas and other Italian faves near the ocean in La Jolla Shores. Elegant, family-friendly, with a quaint patio. L, D (daily); Br (Sa–Su). 2182 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, 858.454.1589. $$$ Map V20 PO PAZZO Italian for “a little crazy,” the menu at this Little Italy spot goes way beyond pasta, to steaks, seafood, veal and more. L, D (daily). 1917 India St., Little Italy, 619.238.1917. $$$ Map P15 TRATTORIA FANTASTICA Popular eatery serving Sicilian fare in a casual setting, with a charming patio in the back. Specialties include wood-fired pizza and red wine osso bucco. B, L, D (daily). 1735 India St., Little Italy, 619.234.1735. $$ Map P15 TRATTORIA I TRULLI Superb pasta and sauces in a rustic setting featuring more than 100 wines. The créme brûlée shouldn’t be missed. L, D (daily). 830 S. Coast Hwy. 101, #100, Encinitas, 760.943.6800. $$ Map V22 VIVACE Marvelous Northern Italian cuisine with a California twist made fresh using organic ingredients at this gorgeous restaurant at the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort. D (M-Sa), Br (Su). 7100 Four Seasons Point, Carlsbad, 760.603.6999. $$$$ Map U22 VIGILUCCI’S RISTORANTE Italian favorites plus Prime steaks, fresh seafood and savory veal, coupled with elegant décor, cozy piano bar and ocean views.

L, D (daily); Br (Su at Coronado and Carlsbad). 1300 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.522.0946, Map L10; 2943 State St., Carlsbad, 760.434.2500, Map T22; 530 N. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.942.7332. $$$ Map V22

Japanese CAFÉ JAPENGO Bustling atmosphere attracts a hip after-work crowd to this upscale spot specializing in artistic sushi and cocktails. L (M–F), D (nightly). 8960 University Center Lane, La Jolla/Golden Triangle, 858.450.3355. $$$ Map T21 HARNEY SUSHI Find award-winning sushi with a molecular gastronomy twist at this groovy local minichain, where live DJs spin nightly. L (M-F), D (nightly).

3964 Harney St., Old Town, 619.295.3272, Map J10; 301 Mission Ave., Oceanside, 760.967.1820. $$ Map S22 KATSUYA Master Sushi Chef Katsuya Uechi’s menu features unique rolls, sashimi platters and signature dishes such as yellowtail with jalapeño and crispy rice with spicy tuna. L (M-F), D (nightly). 600 F St., Gaslamp, 619.814.2000. $$$$ Map Q16 NOBU After conquering L.A., New York, Miami, London and Vegas, celeb Chef Nobu Matsuhisa brings his brand to the Hard Rock Hotel. The miso black cod is a house specialty. D (nightly). 207 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.814.4124. $$$$ Map Q16 SHINO SUSHI + KAPPO A simple, modest sushi nook focusing on authentic, superior-quality sushi versus fussy creations. Try the seared hirame with walnuts, fried garlic and citrus. L (Tu-F); D (Tu-Su). 838 W. Ash St., Little Italy, 619.255.2527. $$$ Map P16 SUSHI ON THE ROCK This raucous sushi bar is ideal for the fun-seeker who appreciates rock music and a high-energy atmosphere with creative rolls and fresh catches. L, D (daily). 1025 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.459.3208. $$$ Map W19

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Dining TAKA Stylish, upscale sushi bar with inventive Asian fusion dishes like miso black cod and oysters dynamite on and off the menu. D (nightly). 555 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.338.0555. $$$ Map Q16

Fresh Fish • Prime Rib Hot Chocolate Lava Cake Relax in an atmosphere of comfortable elegance while you savor the culinary delights that make Chart House legendary.

FANTASTIC HAP P Y HOUR 2588 South Coast Hwy 101 Cardiff, CA 92007 760.436.4044 chart-house.com

UNDERBELLY Build your own noodle creations from toppings such as bacon-wrapped mushrooms, beef brisket and kimchi octopus—and add a side of steamed pork buns—at this hip, casual ramen bar. L, D (daily). 750 Fir St., Little Italy, 619.269.4626. $$ Map P15 ZENBU Innovative sushi rolls and sashimi crafted from line-caught fish brought in by the owner’s personal fleet of fishing boats. Ask the staff about special offthe-menu rolls. D (nightly). 7660 Fay Ave., La Jolla, 858.454.4540, Map W19; 2003 San Elijo Ave., Cardiff, 760.633.2223. $$$ Map W22

Mexican/Southwestern EL AGAVE Upscale Mexico City-style cuisine with exotic dishes like cuitlacoche tlacoyo on blue corn tortillas; plus 2,000 tequilas available to sample. L, D (daily). 2304 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.220.0692. $$$ Map M14 ALFONSO’S A La Jolla institution since 1971, Alfonso’s offers great people-watching from the sidewalk terrace.

Family recipes include the carne asada. L, D (daily). 1251 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.2232. $$ Map V19

Spectacular Waterfront Dining

BARRA BARRA SALOON Wash down homemade Indian-flatbread tacos, white-corn tamales and seafood paella with its famous $5 margarita. L, D (daily). 4016 Wallace St., Old Town, 619.291.3200. $$ Map N13

An island-inspired menu featuring an eclectic mix of fresh seafood, mouthwatering steaks, new wave sushi and more.

BARRIO STAR Self-dubbed as “Mexican soul food,” this trendy eatery serves up healthful Latin Americaninfluenced dishes. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 2706 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.501.7827. $$ Map O16 BLIND BURRO Sustainable, Mexican street food with a modern edge, served in an urban-industrial cantina with rustic touches. Don’t miss the mole chicken tacos and the zesty Baja ceviche. L, D (daily). 639 J St., East Village, 619.795.7880. $$ Map Q16 CAFÉ COYOTE South-of-the-border classics in a lively setting right in the center of Old Town. Choose from more than 100 tequilas in your margarita to wash down the enchiladas suizas and addictive tortilla chips. B, L, D (daily). 2461 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.291.4695. $$ Map M14 1201 FIRST STREET CORONADO FERRY LANDING 619.437.4474 ONLINE RESERvATIONS AT PEOHES.COM

CANDELAS Find tequila prawns flambé over ahi tuna at this romantic nouvelle Mexican spot with breathtaking views of San Diego’s skyline. D (nightly) at both locations; additional Br (Su), L (M-F) in Coronado only. 416 Third Ave., downtown, 619.702.4455, Map R16; 1201 First St., #115, Coronado, 619.435.4900. $$$ Map L10 CASA DE REYES Traditional Mexican dishes in a quaint garden setting, complete with water features, folk art and live entertainment nightly. We love the roasted chicken burrito, carnitas platter and zesty enchiladas. B, L, D (daily). 2754 Calhoun St., Old Town, 619.200.5040. $$ Map N13

“The Pinnacle of Pancakes” -san diego magazine

EN FUEGO A popular Mexican restaurant with a lively bar scene, En Fuego specializes in traditional Mexican food like empanadas, tamales and seafood specialties such as mango salsa tilapia. Sip on specialty mojitos and margaritas of all flavors. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1342 Camino del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.6551. $$ Map X22

Open 7 days a week 6:30 am – 2:30 pm 520 Front street, downtown san diego (just south of market) 619-231-7777 richardwalkers.com

MIGUEL’S COCINA This family-owned restaurant chain dates back to 1982. Each location has its own breezy vibe, but all serve Miguel’s seriously addictive queso dip.

L, D (daily); Br (Su, also Sa in Coronado). 2912 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.224.2401, Map K9; 1351 Orange Ave., Coro nado, 619.437.4237, Map L10; 2444 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.298.9840. $$ Map N13

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Dining OLD TOWN MEXICAN CAFÉ This Old Town staple is famous for its handmade tortillas, which you can see being made fresh daily through the restaurant’s front window. A festive atmosphere and traditional Mexican dishes await inside. B, L, D (daily). 2489 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.297.4330. $ Map N13

Seafood 1887 ON THE BAY Formerly the Coronado Boathouse, this historic waterfront haunt serves prime rib and fish dishes like macadamia-crusted halibut. D (nightly). 1701 Strand Way, Coronado, 619.435.0155. $$ Map L10 ANTHONY’S FISH GROTTO Bayside restaurant has served up fresh catches, fish ‘n’ chips and Mama’s famous clam chowders for 60 years. And you can’t argue with those bay views. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). 1360 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.232.5103. $$$ Map Q15 BO’S SEAFOOD MARKET AND GRILL A low-key, family-owned/operated fish joint in Hillcrest known for its stellar clam chowder, beer-battered fish ‘n’ chips, and cut-to-order, daily fresh seafood catches. Try a fresh catch served in a sandwich or over salad. Boutique wines by the glass. L, D (daily). 1040 University Ave., Hillcrest, 619.574.2800. $$ Map N16 BLUE POINT COASTAL CUISINE California-style seafood and fresh oysters plus blue crab and white truffle mac ‘n’ cheese. Hip martini bar and decadent desserts, too. D (nightly). 565 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.6623. $$$$ Map Q16 THE BRIGANTINE Popular chain with a rollicking happy hour, steaks and chops is known for its fish tacos, swordfish and oyster bars. Great beer and wine list. L, D (daily); Br (Su at Del Mar and Coronado). 2725 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.224.2871, Map K8; 3263 Camino del Mar, Del Mar, 858.481.1166, Map X22; 1333 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.4166. $$ Map L10 DONOVAN’S PRIME SEAFOOD Popular steakhouse chain makes a splash with this chef-driven seafood venture in prime Gaslamp location. Excellent martinis and wine list. D (M-Sa). 333 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.906.4850. $$$ Map R16 EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD Find seafood classics like shrimp cocktail, ahi tartare and lobster bisque, plus 28-day-aged Prime center-cut steaks at this fun La Jolla hotspot boasting beautiful views of the La Jolla Cove and coastline. Great for date night and special celebrations.

D (nightly). 1270 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.459.5500. $$$$ Map W19

YOU’RE INVITED

FISH 101 Small, casual eatery serves up sustainable, seasonal catches and shellfish. Mains range from both grilled and fried fish plates to sandwiches to an Angus-beef burger. Plus salads, daily oyster selection and, for dessert, soft-serve ice cream. D (Tu-Su). 1468 N. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.943.6221. $$ Map V22 THE FISH MARKET/TOP OF THE MARKET Casual dining includes seafood, sushi, an oyster bar and panoramic bay views. Upstairs: Top of the Market features fine seafood and an expanded wine list. L, D (daily). 750 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.232.3474, Map Q15; 640 Via de la Valle, Solana Beach, 858.755.2277. $$ Map W22 HUMPHREY’S RESTAURANT Yacht-club views with bayside seafood like sauteed Georges bank scallops and pepper-crusted king salmon. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). 2241 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.224.3577. $$$ Map K8 ISLAND PRIME Seafood, steak, cocktails and one of the city’s best views looking back at the skyline. Adjacent C Level Lounge on the spacious deck is popular with the after-work crowd. L, D (daily). 880 Harbor Island Drive, Harbor Island, 619.298.6802. $$$ Map J10

Free Olive Oil Tasting Daily • Gourmet Foods & Tapas Premium Artisan Wines • Business Gift Collection Ocean View Wine Bar • Happy Hour Mon-Fri 4pm to 7pm

The finest California Extra Virgin olive oils, artisan vinegars, hand-crafted foods along with premium wines for an exquisite culinary adventure.

1158 Prospect St. La Jolla, CA 92037 (858) 551-8250 SHOP ONLINE lajolla.weolive.com

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Dining MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S Stylish seafood chain is located in the Omni Hotel, adjacent to Petco Park in the heart of downtown. Fresh catch includes some local selections like swordfish and albacore from nearby Catalina Island. B, L, D (daily). 675 L St., downtown, 619.645.6545. $$$ Map Q16 THE OCEANAIRE SEAFOOD ROOM Retro oceanliner design features a bustling cocktail scene with oyster bar. Market-fresh seafood and regionally inspired dishes star on the daily-changing menu. D (nightly). 400 J St., Gaslamp, 619.858.2277. $$$ Map Q16 OSETRA Indulge in caviar, vodka and oysters at this progressive eatery, whose interior is defined by a threestory wine tower. Prime-aged meats are also on the menu.

D (nightly). 904 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.239.1800. $$$ Map Q16 PACIFIC COAST GRILL Reopened as a new restaurant plopped literally right on the beach in Cardiff, Pacific Coast Grill epitomizes casual-chic coastal dining. Locals love the lobster tacos, and the view is the stuff of California dreams. 2526 Coast Hwy. 101, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, 760.479.0721. $$$ Map V22 PACIFICA DEL MAR Upscale, ocean-view, Asian fusion spot attracts a power crowd with mustard catfish and sugar-spiced salmon. Visit the vodka bar with more than 160 selections. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1555 Camino del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.0476. $$$ Map X22 PEOHE’S Tropical décor with spectacular water views and Pacific Rim plates like crispy wok-fried whole bass and fire shrimp. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 1201 First St., Coronado, 619.437.4474. $$$ Map K10

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POSEIDON RESTAURANT Beach-front deck offers a relaxed dining experience day or night. Dinner entrées such as bone-in rib-eye rubbed with rosemary and Kona coffee; cioppino; and ginger-pesto day boat scallops make up the contemporary, eclectic menu. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1670 Coast Blvd., Del Mar, 858.755.9345. $$$ Map X22

THE NATIONAL RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION

SALLY’S Marina views and a seafood-heavy menu, with chili-cumin diver scallops and lobster pot pie. Great spot for a leisurely lunch during the week. L, D (daily). Manchester Grand Hyatt, 1 Market Place, Embar­cadero, 619.358.6740. $$$ Map Q15

Steak COWBOY STAR With barstools upholstered in cowhide, this stylish downtown steakhouse is decked out in Old West adornments. Don’t miss the buttermilk-fried sweetbreads. Excellent meat selections and well-crafted cocktails. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Su). 640 10th Ave., East Village, 619.450.5880. $$$ Map Q17 DONOVAN’S STEAK & CHOP HOUSE The power crowd noshes on huge portions of prime steaks, chops and seafood paired with award-winning wine selections in a lively, sophisticated atmosphere. D (nightly; M-Sa at La Jolla). 4340 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla, 858.450.6666, Map T21; 570 K St., Gaslamp, 619.237.9700. $$$ Map R16 FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR Upscale steakhouse with prime steaks, seafood, hearty side dishes, classic desserts and an acclaimed wine list (with more than 100 choices by the glass). Elegant, sophisticated ambiance with romantic lighting, plus exceptional service. D (nightly). 8970 University Center Lane, La Jolla, 858.535.0078, Map T21; 380 K St., Gaslamp, 619.237.1155. $$$$ Map Q16

Fashion Valley Next To Valet 7007 Friars Rd, San Diego, CA 92108, 619-225-7900

FOGO DE CHÃO Meat is king at this Brazilian steakhouse where gaucho chefs serve 16 cuts of grilled meat via continuous tableside service. Plus salad bar, traditional side dishes and extensive wine list. L (M-F), D (nightly). 668 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.338.0500. $$$ Map Q16

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Dining GEORGES ON FIFTH This popular Gaslamp spot wins over diners with its center-cut certified Angus Prime beef, American Kobe, fresh seafood, pasta and awardwinning wine list. Live music (Sa). D (nightly).

835 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.702.0444. $$$$ Map Q16 GREYSTONE, THE STEAKHOUSE Prime steaks, seafood (try the Dover sole prepared tableside) and pastas in a great downtown location. Beefy menu includes filet mignon potstickers, Kobe carpaccio and more. D (nightly). 658 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.232.0225. $$$ Map Q16 LOU & MICKEY’S Chophouse with a mid-century feel features Prime steaks, chops and seafood, plus martinis shaken tableside and 350+-item wine list.

L, D (daily). 224 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.237.4900. $$$ Map Q16 MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE USDA Primeaged beef, seafood, an excellent wine list, chilled cocktails, decadent desserts, crisp white linens and great service at the edge of the historic Gaslamp Quarter. D (nightly). 285 J St., downtown, 619.696.3369. $$$$ Map Q16 THE PALM RESTAURANT Steak, lobster and pastas served in a saloon-like atmosphere with classic caricatures drawn with charcoals and pastels right on the walls. Located within easy walking distance to East Village and Gaslamp nightlife. D (nightly). 615 J St., Gaslamp, 619.702.6500. $$$ Map Q16 THE STEAKHOUSE AT AZUL LA JOLLA Offering USDA prime steaks, chops, fresh seafood (try the oysters on the half shell) and wood-fired sides; plus views of the cove, patio dining and full bar. L (F-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). 1250 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.9616. $$$ Map W19

The Restaurant That Never Sleeps

VIGILUCCI’S SEAFOOD, STEAK & CHOP HOUSE Italian-influenced chop house features steaks, chicken, veal, fresh catches, oysters (baked and on the half shell), hearty salads and an array of fresh pastas such as the classic capellini checca—all served up with breathtaking beach views. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 3878 Carlsbad Blvd., Carlsbad, 760.434.2580. $$$ Map T22 THE WELLINGTON STEAK AND MARTINI LOUNGE Grab an old-school steak and martini at this sexy supper club and chophouse in Mission Hills, also known for its wild venison and namesake Beef Wellington dishes—all under the direction of new Executive Chef Karrie Hills. D (Tu-Sa). 729 W. Washington St., Mission Hills, 619.295.6001. $$$ Map N15

Thai LOTUS THAI Elegant bamboo décor and modern Thai cuisine at two locations—serving up sophisticated, authentic dishes honoring regional recipes from Bangkok, Chiang Mai and south Thailand. Specialties include Choo Chee pork chops and roasted half-duck curry. L (M-F), D (nightly). 3761 Sixth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.299.8272, Map N16; 906 Market St., East Village, 619.595.0115. $$ Map Q17

Gaslamp Quarter’s Only 24-Hour Restaurant (619) 702-8410 • 828 6th Avenue (between E & F) • www.Brians24.com

PLUMERIA VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT All hail vegetables! This casual Thai eatery has even hardcore carnivores going vegan, if only for a meal. Gobble up the mock chicken and marinated tofu satay skewers (a menu favorite) while dining under sparkling chandeliers surrounded by romantic floral décor. 4661 Park Blvd., University Heights, 619.269.9989. $$ Map M18 RAMA Traditional Thai in a stylish, exotic setting (check out the waterfall in the back room). Specialties include the Crying Tiger, with thinly sliced filet mignon. Located in the heart of the Gaslamp, within easy walking distance of dozens of bars and dance clubs. L (M-Sa), D (nightly). 327 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.501.8424. $$ Map Q16

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leandro traveled 5,000 miles to bring you his lamb chops.

As you can imagine, a few stories came along for the ride.

The Southern Brazilian open-fire cooking method called “churrasco” has been handed down for centuries, with each new generation of gauchos adding their own touch of culture and refinement.

You can taste that tradition today at Fogo De Chão. Where gaucho chefs like Leandro prepare, cook and serve a variety of grilled meats, including steaks, sausage, tender chicken, lamb, ribs, and Leandro’s favorite, a traditionally-seasoned sirloin called “picanha.”

For a taste of Southern Brazil, visit Fogo.com.

Dining SAFFRON San Diego’s first authentic Thai restaurant is known for its saffron-marinated chicken, noodles, sate and healthy approach to traditional dishes. Quick-service order counter, reasonable prices and super-casual ambiance. L, D (daily). 3731 India St., Mission Hills, 619.574.7737. $ Map J10 SPICE & RICE THAI KITCHEN Local favorite offers creative twist on Thai in specialties like Panang curry duck and spicy chili halibut. L (M–Sa), D (nightly). 7734 Girard Ave., La Jolla, 858.456.0466. $$ Map W19 TASTE OF THAI Delicious Thai food in a charming space with a sidewalk patio fronting busy University Avenue. Try the Tom Yum soup and yellow curry with spicy fried rice, followed by the fried bananas with coconut ice for dessert. 527 University Ave., Hillcrest, 619.291.7525. $$ Map N16

Wine Bars COUNTERPOINT Ultra-friendly neighborhood wine bar serves artisan cheeses, salads, burgers, seasonal entrées, weekend brunch, craft beer and international wines. Br (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 830 25th St., Golden Hill, 619.564.6722. $$ Map Q18 FINCH’S BISTRO & WINE BAR An intimate escape from the daily bustle of surrounding La Jolla, this lowkey hidden gem offers a great selection of wines by the glass, live music and a moderately priced menu of both small plates and bistro-style dishes. 7644 Girard Ave., La Jolla, 858.456.4056. $$ Map Q15 THE GRAPE San Diego’s original wine bar features an excellent wine list plus an array of artisanal cheeses, breads and antipasti. Casual, eclectic setting. Open nightly at 5 p.m. 823 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.238.8010. $$ Map Q15 THE ROSE WINE PUB An earthy, restored 1927 building, constructed with the reclaimed redwood of a historic South Park home, this intimate neighborhood wine bar also offers a selection of craft beer, light bites and wine storage. 2219 30th St., South Park, 619.280.1815. $$ Map J12 WE OLIVE Olive oil tasting room also includes coastal-view wine bar featuring California wines and tastings of gourmet food items. Great spot for happy hour, featuring discounted cheese plates and other light gourmet nibbles. L, D (daily). 1158 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.551.8250. $$ Map W19 THE WINE LOVER Parisian-inspired wine shop features California and international wines, gourmet cheeses and imported olives. Store open daily from 4:30 p.m. L (Tu-Su), D (nightly). 3968 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.294.9200. $$$ Map N16 WINE STEALS Lively atmosphere and wine-friendly eats (cheeses, pizzas and charcuterie) at good prices.

Relaxed neighborhood vibe at all three locations.

Open daily. 1953 San Elijo Ave., Cardiff-by-the-Sea, 760.230.2657, Map W22; 1243 University Ave., Hillcrest, 619.295.1188, Map N17; 2970 Truxton Road, Point Loma, 619.221.1959. $$ Map J9 WINE VAULT & BISTRO A truly special find in Mission Hills, this place serves five-course, set-menu, wine dinners every Saturday, with wine flights and special events during the week. Food ranges from Italian to French to California, depending on the evening. Romantic ambiance. D (Th-Sa). 3731-A India St., Mission Hills, 619.295.3939. $$ Map N14

668 6th Ave. | Gaslamp Quarter | San Diego | 619.338.0500 © 2013 Fogo de Chão (Holdings) Inc. All rights reserved.

where?

Log on anywhere.

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SD DINING

LOTUS THAI

There’s a good reason why this elegantly laid-back restaurant, with locations in East Village and Hillcrest, has been repeatedly honored as “Best Thai” in San Diego by numerous outlets. Known for its refined, unpretentious vibe, fresh ingredients and spices, artful dish presentations, and vegetarian-friendly options, Lotus Thai serves up sophisticated, authentic cuisine honoring regional recipes from Bangkok, Chiang Mai and south Thailand. Among our favorites: the Lemon Grass Beef Satay starter; the steamed Shumai, made with ground pork, shrimp and black mushroom wrapped with wonton skin; the spicy Panang curry; and the Crying Tiger entrée—marinated, charcoal-broiled prime steak with a spicy lime dipping sauce. L, D (daily).

906 Market St., East Village 619.595.0115 3761 Sixth Ave., Hillcrest 619.299.8272 lotusthaisd.com

BO’S SEAFOOD MARKET AND GRILL Calling all seafood lovers who like their fish as fresh as possible, and served fast in a casual, family-friendly setting.

Welcome to Bo’s, a comfortable, family-owned/operated seafood restaurant tucked away in the Uptown Shopping Center—known for its stellar clam chowder, beer-battered fish & chips, and cut-to-order selections. Daily fresh catches—ranging from halibut to albacore to salmon to mahi mahi—are available as plated entrees, sandwiches or salads.

Our picks: the grilled Baja fish tacos and the homemade tuna salad sandwich. Also choose from a rotating selection of local draft beers and a boutique wine list. L, D (daily).

1040 University Ave., Hillcrest bosseafoodmarketandgrill.com 619.574.2800

CARDIFF BEACH BAR @ TOWER 13

This new ocean-view hangout comes complete with two patios, a steady rotation of local musicians, plenty of flatscreens for sports fans, organically farmed fare, and creative cocktails. Start with the Tower Mary—their spin on a Bloody Mary, made with fresh peppers infused in vodka; or try the Loco Lolo, made with pineapple infused in tequila. The cuisine is healthier than your usual bar food, focusing on natural, locally farmed proteins and produce. Standouts include the Portabella Mushroom Burger served on a wholewheat bun and the lobster stack made fresh with live Maine lobster, fresh mango, avocado and cucumber pico de gallo.

L, D (daily); B (Sa-Su).

2633 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Cardiff-by-the-Sea tower13.com 760.635.1200 SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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SD DINING

BERTRAND AT MISTER A’S

With unparalleled service, 360 degree views from 12 stories up, exceptional cuisine and a stellar wine list, it’s no wonder why the iconic Bertrand at Mister A’s remains in a class of its own when it comes to elegant fine dining in San Diego.

Expect friendly, professional service and impeccably crafted Mediterranean influenced American cuisine using the freshest ingredients from local sources. Its romantic ambiance, coupled with a warm décor accented by soft earth tones and generous bay windows–offering views of the city, bay, Balboa Park and incoming planes landing at Lindbergh Field–make Mister A’s an ideal destination for dates, special occasions (marriage proposals are popular here), or for those seeking an evening of elevated dining just because. Private dining for large parties up to 300 also available. Br (Su), L (M-F), D (nightly).

2550 Fifth Ave., 12th floor, Bankers Hill bertrandatmisteras.com 619.239.1377

THE MED La Valencia’s signature “Great Room” restaurant is reminiscent of a Mediterranean villa. With its 7th floor terrace, adjacent to La V’s signature La Sala Lounge, THE MED is ideal for a leisurely dining experience. Featuring cuisine inspired from the melting pot of American culture, many dishes are sourced from local organic and sustainable farms, fisheries and ranches. Each of THE MED’s three dining areas—the casual patio, main dining room and ocean view terrace offer a full range of menu choices. Signature starters like crispy Brussels sprouts or the Med spread are a great introduction to creative entrees like Maine scallops or fried poussin. All courses and dishes are enhanced by La V’s sommelier suggestions and renowned wine collection. Opening this winter, adjacent to THE MED, is La V’s much anticipated Café la Rue. B, L, D (daily) Br (Su).

1132 Prospect St., La Jolla lavalencia.com 858.551.3741

SLATER’S 50/50

Design your own gourmet burger at Slaters 50/50. Of the menu’s nine patties, the star is the signature 50/50 made with 50% ground beef and 50% ground bacon. If you’d rather someone else do the work for you, choose from ten “designed” burgers such as the award-winning Peanut Butter and Jellousy burger smothered with creamy peanut butter and strawberry jelly and topped with thick cut bacon. Sip a craft beer from the tap while watching your favorite team on one of Slater’s many big screen TVs. For dessert, try the famous bacon brownie with warm chocolate sauce and candied bacon, served à la mode. Award-winning happy hour.

Check the website for more details. L, D (daily).

Liberty Station, 2750 Dewey Rd., #193, Point Loma slaters5050.com 619.398.2600 SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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RESTAURANTS City Index Our superguide by area, with cross reference to listings by cuisine.

GASLAMP QUARTER

CUPS (Dessert)............................................................................................. 50

ACQUA AL 2 (Italian).............................................................................. 53 ASTI (Italian)................................................................................................... 53 BARLEYMASH (American)..................................................................... 48 BICE (Italian).................................................................................................. 53 BLUE POINT (Seafood)............................................................................ 56 BRIAN’S 24 (Breakfast)............................................................................ 49 BUCA DI BEPPO (Italian)...................................................................... 53 CAFÉ SEVILLA (International)............................................................... 52 CHOPAHN (International)........................................................................ 52 DICK’S LAST RESORT (American).................................................... 48 DONOVAN’S (Steak)............................................................................... 57 DONOVAN’S PRIME SEAFOOD (Seafood)............................... 56 FLEMING’S (Steak).................................................................................... 57 FOGO DE CHAO (Steak)...................................................................... 57 GANG KITCHEN (Eclectic/Fusion)...................................................... 51 GEORGES ON FIFTH (Steak)............................................................. 58 THE GRAPE (Wine Bars).......................................................................... 59 GREYSTONE (Steak)................................................................................ 58 HEAVENLY CUPCAKE (Desserts)..................................................... 50 JSIX (California Cuisine)............................................................................... 50 KATSUYA (Japanese)................................................................................. 54 LOU & MICKEY’S (Steak)..................................................................... 58 MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S (Seafood) ...................................... 57 MONSOON (International) .................................................................... 52 NOBU (Japanese)......................................................................................... 54 THE OCEANAIRE (Seafood)................................................................. 57 OSETRA (Seafood)...................................................................................... 57 THE PALM RESTAURANT (Steak)................................................... 58 RAMA (Thai)................................................................................................. 58 REI DO GADO (International)............................................................... 52 SEARSUCKER (American)....................................................................... 48 TAKA (Japanese)........................................................................................... 55

CUSP (California Cuisine)............................................................................ 50

DOWNTOWN/EAST VILLAGE/EMBARCADERO

THE PATIO ON LAMONT (California Cuisine) . ........................... 50

THE COTTAGE (Breakfast).................................................................... 49 DONOVAN’S (Steak)............................................................................... 57 EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD (Seafood)...................................... 56 FINCH’S BISTRO & WINE BAR (Wine Bars).............................. 59 FLEMING’S (Steak).................................................................................... 57 GEORGE’S AT THE COVE (California Cuisine)............................ 50 HERRINGBONE (American).................................................................. 48 MARINE ROOM (French)....................................................................... 51 THE MED (American)................................................................................ 48 MICHELE COULON (Desserts)........................................................... 50 NINE-TEN (California Cuisine)................................................................. 50 PIATTI (Italian)............................................................................................... 54 PREPKITCHEN (California Cuisine)....................................................... 50 ROPPONGI (Eclectic/Fusion).................................................................. 51 SPICE & RICE (Thai)................................................................................. 59 STEAKHOUSE AT AZUL (Steak)....................................................... 58 SUSHI ON THE ROCK (Japanese).................................................... 54 TAPENADE (French).................................................................................. 52 WHISKNLADLE (California Cuisine)..................................................... 50 WE OLIVE (Wine Bars).............................................................................. 59 ZENBU (Japanese)....................................................................................... 55

HILLCREST/NORTH PARK/ MISSION HILLS/SOUTH PARK

DEL MAR/RANCHO SANTA FE ADDISON (French)..................................................................................... 51

OLD TOWN

THE 3RD CORNER (American)........................................................... 48 BO-BEAU (French)...................................................................................... 51 COSTA BRAVA (International)............................................................... 52 FIREFLY (American)..................................................................................... 48 ISABEL’S CANTINA (Breakfast)........................................................... 49 JRDN (California Cuisine)............................................................................ 50 THE MISSION (Breakfast)....................................................................... 50 TABLE 926 (California Cuisine)................................................................ 50

HARBOR /SHELTER/POINT LOMA

EAT AT THE PEARL (California Cuisine)............................................ 50

LITTLE ITALY

MIGUEL’S COCINA (Mexican/Southwestern).................................. 55

BALI HAI (Eclectic/Fusion)........................................................................ 51 THE BRIGANTINE (Seafood)................................................................ 56 HUMPHREY’S RESTAURANT (Seafood)....................................... 56 ISLAND PRIME (Seafood)....................................................................... 56 JIMMY’S TAVERN (American)............................................................. 48 MIGUEL’S COCINA (Mexican/Southwestern).................................. 55 OLD VENICE (Italian)............................................................................... 54 SLATER’S 50/50 (American)................................................................. 48 WINE STEALS (Wine Bars)..................................................................... 59

CORONADO 1500 OCEAN (California Cuisine)......................................................... 50 THE BRIGANTINE (Seafood)................................................................ 56 CANDELAS (Mexican/Southwestern)................................................... 55 1887 ON THE BAY (Seafood)............................................................. 56 IL FORNAIO (Italian)................................................................................ 53

BENCOTTO (Italian)................................................................................. 53 CRAFT + COMMERCE (American)................................................... 48 DAVANTI ENOTECA (Italian)............................................................. 53 EXTRAORDINARY DESSERTS (Desserts)................................... 50 GLASS DOOR (International)................................................................ 52 ISOLA PIZZA BAR (Italian)................................................................... 53 LA VILLA (Italian)........................................................................................ 53 MONELLO (Italian) ................................................................................... 53 PO PAZZO (Italian).................................................................................... 54 SHINO SUSHI + KAPPO (Japanese)............................................... 54 TRATTORIA FANTASTICA (Italian)................................................. 54 UNDERBELLY (Japanese)........................................................................ 55 WINE VAULT & BISTRO (Wine Bars)............................................... 59

PEOHE’S (Seafood).................................................................................... 57

LA JOLLA

MILLE FLEURS (French).......................................................................... 51

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THE 3RD CORNER (American)........................................................... 48 BEACH GRASS CAFÉ (Breakfast)..................................................... 49 BLUEFIRE GRILL (California Cuisine)................................................... 50 CHART HOUSE (American)................................................................... 48 CRAFTSMAN TAVERN (American)................................................... 48 FISH 101 (Seafood)..................................................................................... 56 THE FISH MARKET (Seafood)............................................................. 56 THE FLYING PIG (California Cuisine).................................................. 50 HARNEY SUSHI (Japanese)................................................................... 54 PACIFIC COAST GRILL (Seafood)..................................................... 57 PAMPLEMOUSSE GRILLE (French)................................................. 51 EL Q’ERO (International).......................................................................... 52 SOLACE (American)................................................................................... 49 TRATTORIA I TRULLI (Italian)............................................................. 54 UNION KITCHEN & TAP (American).............................................. 49 VIGILUCCI’S SEAFOOD & CHOP HOUSE (Steak).............. 58 VIGILUCCI’S RISTORANTE (Italian)............................................... 54 VIVACE (Italian)........................................................................................... 54 WINE STEALS (Wine Bars)..................................................................... 59 ZENBU (Japanese)....................................................................................... 55

100 WINES (French).................................................................................. 51 ALCHEMY (International)......................................................................... 52 ALEXANDER’S (Italian) ......................................................................... 53 ARRIVEDERCI (Italian)............................................................................ 53 BANKERS HILL (American).................................................................... 48 BARRIO STAR (Mexican)......................................................................... 55 BERTRAND AT MR. A’S (American)................................................ 48 BLEU BOHEME (French) ....................................................................... 51 BO’S SEAFOOD (Seafood).................................................................... 56 BROOKLYN GIRL (American)............................................................... 48 CUCINA URBANA (Italian).................................................................. 53 D BAR SAN DIEGO (Desserts)........................................................... 50 ECLIPSE CHOCOLATE BAR & BISTRO (Desserts)................ 50 EXTRAORDINARY DESSERTS (Desserts)................................... 50 FARM HOUSE CAFÉ (French)............................................................ 51 GREAT MAPLE (California Cuisine)...................................................... 50 HASH HOUSE A GO GO (Breakfast)............................................. 49 JAYNE’S GASTROPUB (California Cuisine).................................... 50 LOTUS THAI (Thai)................................................................................... 58 THE MISSION (Breakfast)....................................................................... 50 PLUMERIA (Thai)....................................................................................... 58 THE PRADO (International).................................................................... 52 THE ROSE WINE PUB (Wine Bars)................................................... 59 SAFFRON (Thai)......................................................................................... 59 THE SMOKING GOAT (French) . ...................................................... 52 SNOOZE (Breakfast).................................................................................. 50 SOLTAN BANOO (International) ........................................................ 52 STARLITE (California Cuisine) .................................................................. 50 STATION TAVERN (American) ............................................................ 49 TASTE OF THAI (Thai)............................................................................ 59 TRACTOR ROOM (American).............................................................. 49 URBAN SOLACE (American)................................................................ 49 WANG’S (Chinese)...................................................................................... 50 THE WELLINGTON (Steak)................................................................. 58 THE WINE LOVER (Wine Bars)........................................................... 59 WINE STEALS (Wine Bars)..................................................................... 59

MISSION BAY/BEACHES

ANTHONY’S FISH GROTTO (Seafood)........................................ 56 BLIND BURRO (Mexican/Southwestern) ........................................... 55 CAFÉ 222 (Breakfast)................................................................................ 49 CAFÉ CHLOE (French)............................................................................. 51 CANDELAS (Mexican/Southwestern)................................................... 55 CHAPLOS (American) . ............................................................................. 48 COUNTERPOINT (Wine Bars).............................................................. 59 COWBOY STAR (Steak)......................................................................... 57 THE FISH MARKET (Seafood) ............................................................ 56 GRANT GRILL (California Cuisine)........................................................ 50 HORNBLOWER (American)................................................................... 48 LOTUS THAI (Thai)................................................................................... 58 THE MISSION (Breakfast)....................................................................... 50 MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE (Steak)................................... 58 NEIGHBORHOOD (American)............................................................ 48 RICHARD WALKER’S PANCAKE HOUSE (Breakfast)......... 50 SALLY’S (Seafood)....................................................................................... 57 TOP OF THE MARKET (Seafood)..................................................... 56

AMAYA LA JOLLA (American)............................................................ 48 ALFONSO’S (Mexican/Southwestern)................................................. 55 BROCKTON VILLA (American)........................................................... 48 CAFÉ JAPENGO (Japanese)................................................................. 54

NORTH COASTAL

VIGILUCCI’S RISTORANTE (Italian)............................................... 54

ARTERRA (California Cuisine).................................................................. 50 THE BRIGANTINE (Seafood)................................................................ 56 DAVANTI ENOTECA (Italian)............................................................. 53 DEL MAR RENDEZVOUS (Chinese)............................................... 50 EN FUEGO (Mexican/Southwestern).................................................... 55 IL FORNAIO (Italian)................................................................................ 53 KITCHEN 1540 (California Cuisine)...................................................... 50 MARKET (California Cuisine).................................................................... 50

EL AGAVE (Mexican/Southwestern)...................................................... 55 BARRA BARRA SALOON (Mexican/Southwestern)................... 55 BERTA’S (International).............................................................................. 52 CAFÉ COYOTE (Mexican/Southwestern).......................................... 55 CASA DE REYES (Mexican/Southwestern)....................................... 55 HARNEY SUSHI (Japanese)................................................................... 54 JACK & GIULIO’S (Italian).................................................................... 53 MIGUEL’S COCINA (Mexican)............................................................. 55 OLD TOWN MEXICAN CAFÉ (Mexican)..................................... 56

PACIFICA DEL MAR (Seafood)........................................................... 57

MISSION VALLEY/KEARNY MESA

POSEIDON (Seafood)............................................................................... 57

DUMPLING INN (Chinese).................................................................... 50 JASMINE SEAFOOD (Chinese).......................................................... 50 STACKED (American)................................................................................ 49

SEA & SMOKE (American).................................................................... 48 SEARSUCKER (American)....................................................................... 48

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Entertainment Festivals & Special Events DECEMBER NIGHTS Dec. 6-7. Experience this annual two-day holiday blowout. Festivities include carolers, live music, holiday light displays and free-entry to many museums from 5-9 p.m. Balboa Park, 619.239.0512. Map O17 CORONADO HOLIDAY CELEBRATION Dec. 6. Be a part of the annual festivities, with a parade along Orange Avenue, the lighting of a 50-foot Christmas tree, a snow mountain play area at the Coronado Ferry Landing and holiday concert. Coronado, 619.437.8788. Map L10 50TH ANNUAL NORTH PARK TOYLAND PARADE Dec. 7, 11 a.m. Parade features a slew of celebrations, plus beauty queens, dance groups, vintage cars, bands and floats; as well as a holiday fair behind the historic North Park Theatre. University Avenue, North Park, 619.501.1074. Map J12 LA JOLLA CHRISTMAS PARADE AND HOLIDAY FESTIVAL Dec. 8, 2 p.m. The holidays in La Jolla glory, with vintage automobiles, equestrian units, floats, marching bands and a Santa Claus appearance. Girard Avenue, La Jolla. Map W19

Get Lucky

Located in the heart of the Gaslamp, Lucky Bastard Saloon is all about casual fun … with a dose of eye candy in the form of sexy servers donning derrière-bearing chaps.

Owner Nicole Dahm Kelly, a former Playboy Playmate and actress, knows a thing or two about sex appeal, but has fun with it at her biker-themed sports bar—from the massive chandelier constructed entirely of Jack Daniels bottles to the vintage Harley Davidson in the window to the saddles doubling as bar stools. Catch the big game on one of 38 bigscreen TVs in between rounds of pool, shuffleboard and beer pong. A comfort food menu features stone-fired pizzas, chicken ‘n’ waffles, burgers and beer-battered cheese curds. 840 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.233.0023

42ND ANNUAL SAN DIEGO BAY PARADE OF LIGHTS Dec. 8 and 15, 5:30-9 p.m. See San Diego Bay twinkle with more than 100 private boats decked out with holiday lights for a night on the water. Downtown, 619.224.2240. Map Q15 THE NUTCRACKER Dec. 13-15, 19-22 (City Ballet) and Dec. 14-15, 18-22 (California Ballet). Channel your inner Sugar Plum Fairy at two stagings of the timeless Christmas classic presented by the City Ballet of San Diego at the historic Spreckels Theatre, and by the California Ballet at Civic Theatre. Spreckels Theatre, 121 Broadway, downtown, 619.235.9500, Map Q16; Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100. Map Q16 MISSION BAY CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE OF LIGHTS Dec. 14. More than 100 illuminated vessels parade along Mission Bay starting at 7 p.m., followed by a fireworks show at 9 p.m. above SeaWorld. Mission Bay, 858.488.0501. Map I9 HOLIDAY IN THE PARK Dec. 14-15. See Old Town State Historic Park decked out for the holidays with extended shopping hours, strolling carolers and Las Posadas—a centuries-old tradition in which actors reenact the biblical journey of Mary and Joseph through the town of Bethlehem on Dec. 15. Old Town State Historic Park, San Diego Avenue and Twiggs Street, Old Town, 619.220.5422. Map M13 BIG BAY BALLOON PARADE Dec. 30, 10 a.m. Gaze at the massive displays at the country’s largest balloon parade along the bay; plus floats and marching bands. San Diego Bay, downtown, 619.686.6200. Map P14 SKATING BY THE SEA Through Jan. 5. See Hotel del Coronado’s Windsor Lawn transform into an outdoor ice-skating rink that overlooks the beach and Pacific Ocean. Hotel del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.6611. Map L10 THE COMPLETE FRIDA KAHLO: HER PAINTINGS. HER LIFE. HER STORY. Through Jan. 19. Works by painter Frida Kahlo come to life in an exhibit featuring 123 replicas, personal possessions and photographs. Barracks 3 at the NTC Arts & Culture District in Liberty Station, 2765 Truxton Road, Point Loma, thecompletefrida.com. Map J9 MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY PARADE Jan. 19, 2 p.m. Celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at this annual waterfront parade along San Diego Bay. Enjoy an afternoon of bands, floats, music, drill teams and other festivities as they march along the Embarcadero. Downtown. Map Q16.

Guidelines

Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps on pages 76-79. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.

Index

Festivals ............................... 64 Special Events.........................64 Theater .................................66 Music + Dance ..................67 Casinos.................................68

Attractions ..........................68 Museums ............................69 Destination Shopping ......71 Nightlife................................72 Tours + Transport .............74

SAN DIEGO RESTAURANT WEEK Jan. 19-24. Enjoy fabulous dining for less when nearly 200 restaurants throughout San Diego County offer prix-fixe, threecourse meals for lunch and dinner. Visit website for participating restaurants. sandiegorestaurantweek.com.

FARMERS INSURANCE OPEN Jan. 23-26. San Diego’s most anticipated pro golf tournament includes legends such as Tiger Woods (2013 defending champ) and beloved local superstar Phil Mickelson. The actionpacked week includes practice rounds for the PGA Tour players, pro-am tournaments, women’s and men’s days, a junior clinic, military appreciation activities and celebrity after-parties. Torrey Pines Golf Course, 11480 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, 858.535.4500. Map S19 SAN DIEGO MUSEUM MONTH Feb. 1-28. Access more than 40 of San Diego’s top museums all month long for half-off admission, including local favorites such as Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, Maritime Museum, Birch Aquarium at Scripps and several museums at Balboa Park. Pick up passes at San Diego Macy’s stores. Various locations, sandiegomuseumcouncil.org.

SAN DIEGO JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL Feb. 6-16. The 24th annual film festival explores Jewish experiences through slews of shorts, documentaries and feature films. Reading Cinemas Town Square 14, 4665 Clairemont Drive, Clairemont Mesa, 858.274.9994. Map H10 CHINESE NEW YEAR FOOD AND CULTURAL FAIR Feb. 8-9, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. This free, two-day annual celebration features more than 25 performances, children’s crafts, a lantern parade and a variety of Chinese and Asian foods and cultural displays. Third Ave. and J St., downtown, 619.234.4447. Map Q16 HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS Feb. 14. Fun for kids and basketball enthusiasts alike, enjoy a night of the Harlem Globetrotters and their smooth moves on the court. Valley View Casino Center, 3500 Sports Arena Blvd., Midway, 619.224.4171. Map J9 MAINLY MOZART Feb. 27, March 1-2. Check out the Mandelring Quartet—presented as part of Mainly Mozart’s 2014 chamber music spotlight—as the renowned string quartet performs Mozart, Shostakovich and Beethoven in intimate, intermission-free concerts across La Jolla, Rancho Santa Fe and Carlsbad. Visit website for more details. mainlymozart.org 20TH ANNUAL MARDI GRAS IN THE GASLAMP March 4, 5-11 p.m. Go downtown for the largest Mardi Gras festival on the West Coast, conveniently staged in the Gaslamp and equipped with beads and distinct SoCal flavor. Gaslamp Quarter, 619.233.5227. Map Q16 13TH ANNUAL HILLCREST MARDI GRAS STREET PARTY March 4, 6-11 p.m. Celebrate Fat Tuesday at uptown’s biggest bash of the season. This roaring annual celebration promises awesome people-watching. Hillcrest, hillcrestmardigras.com. Map N16

Looking for a dose of classical music but with a modern kick? San Diego Symphony presents a diverse lineup of performances and guest musicians. p. 68

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Entertainment Theater A CHRISTMAS CAROL: A LIVE RADIO PLAY Through Dec. 22. Cygnet Theatre’s live “radio” presentation of the Charles Dickens classic returns. It’s Christmas Eve 1944, and you are part of the live studio audience as the “on-air” players bring the story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his three ghostly visitors to life. Old Town Theatre, 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town, 619.337.1525. Map M13 DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! Through Dec. 28. For spirited kids young and old, experience this annual holiday production of a Dr. Seuss classic at the Old Globe. 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, 619.234.5623. Map O17 FESTIVAL OF CHRISTMAS Through Dec. 29. Lamb’s Players presents a new work, Catch a Falling Star, which follows Ella Eden and her hilarious attempt to create the perfect gift for her father—a musical Christmas card filmed at the remote cabin where he spent one magical holiday.

Mishaps and mayhem ensue as her perfect plan goes awry.

Lamb’s Players Theatre, 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.6000. Map L10 THE HUMBUG HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR Dec. 11-29.

This comedic, colorful musical spoof is full of witty songs, dance numbers and a little bit of everything to please even the grouchiest of holiday humbuggers. North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987-D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach, 858.481.1055. Map X22 AN AMERICAN CHRISTMAS Dec. 16-24. Plan for a true feast at this delectable five-course holiday meal, in a unique setting of festive dance and song presented by Lamb’s Players Theatre. Guests are encouraged to dress up for the occasion. Hotel del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.6611. Map L10

ChiCanitas

SMall PaiNTiNgS fROM ThE ChEECh MaRiN COllECTiON On view December 21, 2013 through March 23, 2014 actor, director, and perhaps best known as half the comedy duo Cheech and Chong, Cheech Marin has collected Chicano art for 25 years. This exhibition features paintings by both emerging and established Chicano artists, all working on an intimate scale to depict subjects of a personal nature.

MENTiON ThiS aD aND RECEivE half Off aDMiSSiON. DOWNTOWN 1100 Kettner Blvd. 858 454 3541 www.mcasd.org Jari WERC Álvarez, Donkey Show (detail), 2008, mixed media, 12 x 24 in.

Collection of Cheech Marin. © Jari WERC Álvarez 2013.

IN THE TIME OF THE BUTTERFLIES Jan. 4-26. Based on the best-selling historical novel, this play tells the story of four sisters—known by the code name butterflies—who 13COM066_WHERE_chicanitas.indd 1 are involved in the secret underground movement to overthrow Dominican Republic dictator General Rafael Trujillo during the mid-20th century. Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza, downtown, 619.544.1000. Map Q16 WHO AM I THIS TIME? (AND OTHER CONNUNDRUMS OF LOVE) Jan. 8-Feb. 2. Adapted from Kurt Vonnegut’s stories, this work—told through three love stories set in mythological small-town America—is full of heart. North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987-D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach, 858.481.1055. Map X22

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MAPLE AND VINE Jan. 16-Feb. 16. Katha and Ryu have become allergic to their 21st-century lives. After they meet a charismatic man from a community of 1950s reenactors, they forsake cell phones and sushi for cigarettes and Tupperware parties in their pursuit of happiness.

Cygnet Theatre in Old Town, 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town, 619.337.1525. Map M13 BETHANY Jan. 25-Feb. 23. At the height of the foreclosure crisis, single mother Crystal loses more than her house in this dark comedy that explores just how far we’ll go to get back what’s ours. Contains strong language. White Theatre at the Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, 619.234.5623. Map O17 THE WINTER’S TALE Feb. 8-March 16. Shakespeare’s late masterpiece is a profound exploration of the simple miracles in life and the forces that shape them: love, friendship and forgiveness. Shiley Stage at the Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, 619.234.5623. Map O17 THE WHO & THE WHAT Feb. 11-March 9. Raised in a conservative Muslim family in Atlanta, the outspoken Zarina clashes with her traditional father and sister in this humorous play that examines the great divide between traditions and contemporary lives. La Jolla Playhouse, UCSD, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, 858.550.1010. Map T20

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San Diego Symphony

GREAT

Entertainment THE SCHOOL FOR LIES Feb. 19-March 16. Molière’s wit meets its match in this new adaptation. Tony Award-nominee David Ives’ off-color tribute to The Misanthrope stuffs a 17th-century farce full of contemporary slang—with results worthy of a Baroque vaudeville show. North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987-D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach, 858.481.1055. Map X22

CONCERTS

DETROIT Feb. 22-March 16. The Obie winner and finalist for the Pulitzer Prize is a playful and primal cocktail about the American dream and the pursuit of happiness. Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza, downtown, 619.544.1000. Map Q16

all year long!

SPRING AWAKENING March 6-April 27. Rebellious 19th-century teenagers take a provocative journey from adolescence to adulthood in this eight-time Tony Awardwinning musical, featuring a score by Duncan Sheik.

Contains mature themes, sexual situations and strong language. Cygnet Theatre in Old Town, 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town, 619.337.1525. Map M13

POPS •

Music + Dance + Perfomances

CLASSICAL •

FAMILY Jahja Ling Music Director

For Complete Season Information: CALL 619.235.0804 or VISIT sandiegosymphony.com

ARTPOWER! AT UC SAN DIEGO Music, dance, art and film series at UC San Diego. Jan. 9: Emerson String Quartet (chamber); Jan. 15: Compagnie Käfig (dance); Jan. 16: Diego Star (film); Jan. 31: Danish String Quartet (chamber); Feb. 10: St. Lawrence String Quartet (music); Feb. 13: yMusic (music); Feb. 14: L’Amour des Moules (film); Feb. 19: Aszure Barton and Artists (dance); Feb. 20: Dr. Lonnie Smith (jazz); Feb. 26: Fatoumata Diawara (global); Feb. 27: Paul Dresher Ensemble: Schick Machine (music); March 6: The Fruit Hunters (film); March 11: Kronos Quartet (music).

Various locations around the UC San Diego campus, artpwr.com. Map T20 ATHENAEUM MUSIC AND ARTS LIBRARY Jan. 9-12: soundON Festival of Modern Music; Feb. 20: Sarah Chang (violin). Call for complete schedule. 1008 Wall St., La Jolla, 858.454.5872. Map W19

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Aquarium tickets • Annual Memberships • Adopt-A-Fish • Ocean-themed gifts aquarium.ucsd.edu • 858-534-FISH • 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla • Open 9-5 daily

BALBOA THEATRE Dec. 4: Tedeschi Trucks Band; Dec. 5: Margaret Cho; Dec. 6: Israel Houghton and New Breed; Dec. 8: Rick Steves; Dec. 11: The Black Crowes; Dec. 21: A Peter White Christmas; Dec. 31: Paula Poundstone; Jan. 24: The Irish Rovers; Jan. 25: Tommy Emmanuel; Jan. 26: David Garrett; Jan. 29: Pink Martini; Jan. 31: Patti Lupone; Feb. 7: Joshua Bell and Sam Haywood; Feb. 14: Brian Regan; Feb. 20: Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood; Feb. 23: Classics Philharmonic Orchestra presents The Silk Road; Feb. 28: St. Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra. Call for complete schedule. 868 Fourth Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100. Map Q16 CALIFORNIA CENTER FOR THE ARTS Dec. 6: An Irish Christmas; Dec. 7: West Coast Ballet presents The Nutcracker; Dec. 7: The Center Chorale – A Choral Yuletide; Dec. 8: Marco Antonio Labastida (tenor); Dec. 8: KPRi’s Holiday Soiree 2013 feat. The Head & The Heart, Matt Nathanson and Dawes; Dec. 13-14: Carols by Candlelight; Jan. 18: The Harvard Glee Club; Jan. 19: Nadir Khashimov (violin); Jan. 26: Moscow Nights and Golden Gates; Jan. 30-31: 1st Marine Division Band Concert; Feb. 5: Sweethearts of Swing; Feb. 15: Sæunn Thorsteinsdóttir (cello); Feb. 26-28, March 1-2: Shen Yun. 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido, 800.988.4253. Map B3 LA JOLLA SYMPHONY AND CHORUS Dec. 7-8: Steven Schick conducts Aaron Jay Kernis’s Musica Celestis, Paul Hembree’s Ikarus-Azur and Maurice Ravel’s Daphnis et Chloe; Feb. 8-9: Steven Schick conducts Hector Berlioz’s Roman Carnival Overture, Lou Harrison’s Piano Concerto and Johannes Brahms’ Symphony No. 4 feat. guest artist Sarah Cahill (piano). Mandeville Auditorium, UCSD, La Jolla, 858.534.4637. Map T20 SAN DIEGO OPERA Jan. 25, 28, 31 and Feb. 2: Pagliacci; Feb. 15, 18, 21, 23: The Elixir of Love. Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100. Map Q16

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Attractions + Museums

INDOOR KART RACING

SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY Dec. 20-22: Holiday Pops: An Americana Christmas; Jan. 1: New Year’s Concert: Salute to Vienna feat. The Strauss Symphony of America (Andras Deak, conductor); Jan. 11-12: Itzhak Perlman (violin); Jan. 17-18: Ballroom with a Twist; Jan. 24: Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and San Diego Symphony (Pinchas Zukerman, conductor and violin; Amanda Forsyth, cello); Feb. 1: The Thief of Baghdad (film screening w/ live organ); Feb. 7-8: Mendelssohn’s Hymn of Praise; Feb. 11-12: Moscow Festival Ballet presents Swan Lake (11th) and Sleeping Beauty (12th); Feb. 14: Tao: Taiko Drummers of Japan; Feb. 20: The Ring of Power: Wagner vs. Tolkien: The Story Behind the Ring; Feb. 23: The Chieftains – Irish Spectacular; Feb. 28 and March 1: Wagner’s The Ring Without Words (Jahja Ling, conductor; Martina Filjak, piano). Copley Symphony Hall, 750 B St., downtown, 619.235.0804. Map Q14

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VALLEY VIEW CASINO CENTER Dec. 14: Joe Bonamassa; Jan. 22-26: Disney on Ice Rockin’ Ever After; Jan. 31: George Strait; Feb. 7: The Fresh Beat Band; Feb. 15: Imagine Dragons. Call for complete schedule. 3500 Sports Arena Blvd., Midway, 619.224.4171. Map J9

Casinos BARONA VALLEY RANCH RESORT AND CASINO More than 2,000 slot machines, 70-plus table games, satellite wagering and an all-you-can-eat buffet.

Daily, 24 hours. 1932 Wildcat Canyon Road, Lakeside, 619.443.2300. Map D4 CASINO PAUMA Tropically themed complex with more than 35,000 square feet of gaming, 850 slots, 24 table games, poker parlor and non-smoking section. Daily, 24 hours. 777 Pauma Reservation Road, Pauma Valley, 760.891.7900. Map A4

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PALA RESORT AND CASINO Features 2,250 state-of-the-art slots and video machines, 85 Vegas-style gaming tables, eight restaurants and two lounges. 11154 Hwy. 76, Pala, 760.510.5100. Map A3

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PECHANGA RESORT AND CASINO Video machines, table games, lunch buffet and entertainment center featuring live concerts and professional boxing. Alcohol served. Daily, 24 hours. 45000 Pechanga Parkway, Temecula, 951.693.1819. Map A3 HARRAH’S RINCON CASINO Slots paradise. Daily, 24 hours. 777 Harrah’s Rincon Way, Valley Center, 760.751.3100. Map B4 SYCUAN CASINO Find high-stakes bingo, pai gow poker, slots and four restaurants at this East County gambling hall, plus a 500-seat theater. Daily, 24 hours.

5469 Casino Way, El Cajon, 619.445.6002. Map D5 VALLEY VIEW CASINO High-limit blackjack, 1,750 slots, steakhouse and 24-hour café, free valet parking and separate non-smoking gaming and bar area. Daily, 24 hours. 16300 Nyemii Pass Road, Valley Center, 760.291.5500. Map B4 VIEJAS CASINO This Alpine casino features more than 2,500 Vegas–style slots, table games, satellite wagering, high-stakes bingo, buffet and six restaurants. Daily, 24 hours. 5000 Willows Road, Alpine, 800.847.6537. Map D5

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Attractions BIRCH AQUARIUM AT SCRIPPS Explore one of the nation’s largest oceanographic museums, and enjoy a spectacular view from the tidepool plaza. Daily 9 a.m.– 5 p.m. Three-hour courtesy parking. 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, 858.534.3474. Map U20 CABRILLO NATIONAL MONUMENT Whale watching, tidepools, trails, the Old Point Loma Lighthouse and spectacular views. Daily 9 a.m.–5 p.m. $3-5. 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Drive, Point Loma, 619.557.5450. Map L8

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Attractions + Museums JETPACK AMERICA Explore Mission Bay like never before with this new water-propelled jet-pack adventure that allows you to fly over and through the water—up to 30 feet in the air. 1010 Santa Clara Place, Mission Bay, 888.553.6471. Map H7 K1 SPEED SoCal’s first electric indoor kart racing center lets 20-horsepower electric karts roam 70,000 square feet of space; arcade games, too. 6212 Corte del Abeto, Carlsbad, 760.929.2225. Map U23 LEGOLAND Find 50-plus rides and shows, and Sea Life Aquarium’s seven-foot-long Lego submarine.

Check out the new waterpark complete with a lazy river (open seasonally). Adults $80; kids 3–12 and seniors 60+ $70 (add $13/ticket for admission to aquarium or water park; add $19/ticket for admission to all three).

Aquarium-only: adults $20; kids 3-12 $15. Parking $12–20. Call for hours. 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, 760.918.5346. Map U22

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SAN DIEGO BOTANIC GARDEN One of the world’s most diverse plant collections. Daily 9 a.m.–5 p.m. (till 8 p.m. Th). Cost: $12, with discounted rates for seniors and small children; free for kids 2 and under. 230 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas, 760.436.3036. Map V22 SAN DIEGO ZOO The world-famous zoo has more than 4,000 rare and endangered animals in a charming, state–of–the–art park. Its inclined walking trails are a workout. $42; kids 3–11 $32; kids 2 and under free. Free parking. Open daily 9 a.m.-9 p.m. 2920 Zoo Drive, Balboa Park, 619.231.1515. Map O17

sandiegozoo.org/koalafornia

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SAFARI PARK (formerly the Wild Animal Park). Take a safari adventure through the 1,800–acre wildlife preserve, home to herds of exotic animals roaming in vast enclosures resembling African and Asian plains.

Safari packages start at $42 for adults; children 3–11 $32; kids 2 and under free. Parking $10. Daily 9 a.m.5 p.m. 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, 760.747.8702. Map C3

10/15/13 12:16 PM

SEAWORLD The 189-acre adventure park features thousands of marine animals including killer whales plus fish, reptiles and birds. $73; kids 3–9 $65; kids 2 and under free. Parking: $14-19. Open daily; call for hours and combo rates. 500 SeaWorld Drive, Mission Bay Park, 800.25.SHAMU. Map I8 U.S. OLYMPIC TRAINING CENTER One of only four OTCs in the U.S., this year-round facility features field hockey, archery, soccer, BMX facilities and more. Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Ask about guided tours. Free entry. 2800 Olympic Pkwy., Chula Vista, 619.656.1500. Map F4

Museums CALIFORNIA SURF MUSEUM Collection of surfing artifacts and memorabilia, plus exhibits about surfing legends. Rare surfing collectibles in museum gift shop.

Daily 10 a.m.­–4 p.m., Th 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Adults $5; seniors/military/students $3; kids under 12 free. 312 Pier View Way, Oceanside, 760.721.6876. Map S22 CENTRO CULTURAL DE LA RAZA Celebrates Mexican, Chicano and indigenous art and culture with vibrant murals, art exhibits and performances. Gallery open Tu–Su noon–4 p.m. Suggested donation $5. 2125 Park Blvd., Balboa Park, 619.235.6135. Map P17 CORONADO MUSEUM OF HISTORY AND ART Galleries of historical memorabilia reveal a rich past.

10 a.m.-5 p.m. (daily). Suggested donation $2–4.

1100 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.7242. Map L10

animals’ Lemur Walk is an adventure like no other! Go inside the habitat and get up close to these endearing primates.

Lemur Walk is always included with admission to the Park.

sdzsafaripark.org

MARSTON HOUSE Craftsman-style house designed by renowned architects William Hebbard and Irving Gill in 1905. Period furnishings, pottery and an Indian basketry collection. Open for tours F-M 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Adults $10; kids 6-12 $4; kids under 5 free. 3525 Seventh Ave., Balboa Park, 619.297.9327. Map O16

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Attractions + Museums MARITIME MUSEUM Visit the 1863 barque Star of India (world’s oldest active ship), the 1898 steam ferryboat Berkeley, the 1904 steam yacht Medea, a ­Soviet-era submarine and the HMS Surprise, the Royal Navy frigate featured in the film Master and Commander. Daily 9 a.m.–9 p.m. $15; seniors/military/teens $11; kids 6-12 $8; children 5 and under free. The schooner Californian also offers halfday sailing trips ($31-42). 1492 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.234.9153. Map P15

Choose from more than 300 different oils

MINGEI INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM Exhibits celebrate folk art. Tu–Su 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $5–8; children 5 and under free. 1439 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.0003. Map O17

TIJON MAKES IT FUN & MEMORABLE From $59 Rated  Stars Yelp & Tripadvisor

MISSION SAN DIEGO DE ALCALÁ The first of 21 ­missions stretching north along the California coast, this one was established by Junípero Serra in 1769 on Presidio Hill and moved to this site in 1774. Adults $3; kids/seniors $2. 10818 San Diego Mission Road, Mission Valley, 619.281.8449. Map I12

“I would is to recommend th g in lin ve tra anyone the area…”

MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART SAN DIEGO Museum features post-1950s art spanning many genres and media. Call for hours of operation at both locations. $5-10 admission valid for seven days; ages 25 and under free; free third Th 5-7 p.m. 700 Prospect St., La Jolla, Map W19; 1001 and 1100 Kettner Blvd., downtown, 858.454.3541. Map Q15 MUSEUM OF MAKING MUSIC Vintage instruments, interactive audio and visual exhibits offer dynamic look into the history of American popular music. Tu–Su 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $5–8; kids 5 and under free. 5790 Armada Drive, Carlsbad, 760.438.5996. Map U23 MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS Collection includes contemporary photography, social documentary and photojournalism. Regularly rotating exhibits. Film screenings, too. Tu-Su 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $5–8; kids 12 and under free. Free second Tu. 1649 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.238.7559. Map O17 OCEANSIDE MUSEUM OF ART Regional and international artists showcased in exhibits ranging from landscape painting to studio furniture, neon sculpture, art quilts and architectural glass. Tu–Sa 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Su 1-4 p.m. $5–8 (students and military are free). 704 Pier View Way, Oceanside, 760.435.3720. Map S22

7853 Herschel Ave., La Jolla

•

619.821.8219

Armani Chanel Prada Louis Vuitton Christian Dior Hermès St. John Herve Leger Christian Louboutin and more

SAN DIEGO AIR & SPACE MUSEUM Hot-air balloons, jets and historic aircraft. Daily 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m. $7-17.50 (Ripley’s Believe It or Not! exhibition admission is $12-24); kids 2 and under free. 2001 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park, 619.234.8291. Map P17 SAN DIEGO HALL OF CHAMPIONS Three levels and 68,000 square feet of sports exhibits and interactive displays form the largest multi-sports museum in the U.S. Daily 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. $6; seniors/military $4; kids 7-17 $3; kids 2 and under free. 2131 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park, 619.234.2544. Map O17

SAN DIEGO MUSEUM OF MAN Go on a journey of the human experience highlighting our physical and cultural development through permanent and changing exhibits.

Daily 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; $5–12.50; children 2 and under free. 1350 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.2001. Map O17

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REUBEN H. FLEET SCIENCE CENTER Interactive science galleries invite visitors to explore the wonders of astronomy, the earth and physics. Giant-screen films run in the IMAX Dome Theater. M-Th 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (open later during holiday breaks); F-Sa till 8 p.m.; Su till 6 p.m. $9.7511.75 (IMAX films extra); kids 2 and under free. 1875 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.238.1233. Map O17

SAN DIEGO MUSEUM OF ART Diverse collection includes Italian Renaissance and Spanish Baroque works, 19th–20th-century American and ­European paintings and sculptures, and a vast Asian collection. M–Sa 10 a.m–5 p.m. (closed W), Su noon-5 p.m. $4.50–12; kids 6 and under free. 1450 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.7931. Map O17

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Shopping SAN DIEGO NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Dinosaur displays, giant-screen films, photography exhibitions and more. Daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $11–17; children 2 and under free; free for active military first Tu. 1788 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.3821. Map O17 STUART COLLECTION OF SCULPTURE Scattered across the UCSD campus, outdoor art collection includes talking and singing trees, a “Sun God” and more. Free. Gilman and La Jolla Village drives, La Jolla, 858.534.2230. Map T20 USS MIDWAY The world’s largest floating naval-aviation museum has restored airplanes on the flight deck and interactive exhibits inside. Daily 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $10–18; military/kids 5 and under free. 910 N. ­Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.544.9600. Map Q14

Destination Shopping CARLSBAD PREMIUM OUTLETS Shop 90 outlet stores (including Barneys New York, Polo Ralph Lauren and Banana Republic) in a pleasant outdoor setting. 5620 Paseo del Norte, Carlsbad, 760.804.9000. Map U22 DEL MAR HIGHLANDS TOWN CENTER This exclusive pocket of dining, shopping and entertainment comprises around 75 stylish shops and restaurants. 12925 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.793.5757. Map X22

What if you could escape to a simpler time?

DEL MAR PLAZA With more than 20 shops and eight restaurants, this gorgeous tri-level boutique shopping plaza overlooks the Pacific Ocean. 1555 Camino del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.1555. Map X22

"Piquantly funny, cleverly executed and darkly playful."

FASHION VALLEY The largest mall in San Diego, this beautiful bi-level, outdoor mall includes 200-plus shops, five department stores, restaurants, a food court and an 18-screen movie theater. Don’t miss lunch at Stacked and True Food Kitchen. 7007 Friars Road, Mission Valley, 619.688.9113. Map J10

- The New York Times

FLOWER HILL PROMENADE Del Mar’s recently expanded, upscale lifestyle center is home to dozens of restaurants and high-end specialty boutiques. 2720 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.481.7131. Map X22

By Jordan Harrison Directed by Igor Goldin

THE FORUM AT CARLSBAD Elegant, tree-lined outdoor center with dozens of shops and restaurants, including Anthropologie and Sur La Table. 1905 Calle Barcelona, Carlsbad, 760.479.0166. Map U23

,

JANUARY 16 - FEBRUARY 16 OLD TOWN | SAN DIEGO

THE HEADQUARTERS AT SEAPORT DISTRICT Openair center in a historic setting is home to specialty shops, designer boutiques and restaurants, including several not found anywhere else in San Diego. 789 W. Harbor Drive, 619.235.4014. Map K11

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Nov 29-Dec 29

“Holiday Storytelling at it’s Best!”

-NORTH COUNTY TIMES

Dec 16-24

What’s Playing in NORTH COUNTY?

LAS AMERICAS PREMIUM OUTLETS Spanish Colonial-style outlet mall has 125-plus shops. 4211 Camino de la Plaza, San Ysidro, 619.934.8400. Map F3

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OTAY RANCH TOWN CENTER Shops at this airy, stylish South County mall include Apple, Sephora and a myriad fashion boutiques. Enjoy outdoor fire pits, a dog park and a movie theater. 2015 Birch Road, Chula Vista, 619.656.9100. Map F3 SEAPORT VILLAGE Picturesque and charming outdoor plaza on the waterfront features 54 one-of-a-kind shops and galleries. 849 W. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.235.4014. Map R15 WESTFIELD HORTON PLAZA Popular multi-level outdoor mall features almost 200 shops, two restaurants and a food court. Anchored by Macy’s and Nordstrom. 324 Horton Plaza, downtown, 619.239.8180. Map Q16 WESTFIELD UTC Enjoy more than 180 shops, five restaurants and a food court. Located near UCSD, the mall is anchored by Macy’s, Sears and Nordstrom. 4545 La Jolla Village Drive, Golden Triangle, 858.546.8858. Map T21

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Nightlife Nightlife Gaslamp Quarter/Downtown/Little Italy

207/FLOAT Rock ‘n’ roll glamour at the Hard Rock Hotel; two nightspots offer different vibes, from the street-level 207 lounge to the rooftop Float, featuring bottle service in poolside cabanas. Hard Rock Hotel, 207 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.702.3000. Map Q16 BAILIWICK New bar serves craft cocktails, local brews and weekend brunch—all with a dash of Southern charm.

Cool interior with white brick, crystal chandeliers, flatscreens and a tub filled with champagne. 756 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.795.3036. Map Q16 BARLEYMASH Choose from 30 beers on tap from local microbreweries at this casual-cool bar, which also serves up exceptional American cuisine. 600 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.255.7373. Map Q16 BASIC Urban bar in a cool, renovated warehouse near the ballpark serves brick-oven pizzas. 410 10th Ave., East Village, 619.531.8869. Map Q17 BOOTLEGGER This spacious, light-filled spot features vintage Prohibition-inspired design accents plus pub grub, flat-screen TVs and more. 804 Market St., East Village, 619.794.BOOT. Map Q17 BUB’S @ THE BALLPARK This super-casual East Village sports bar boasts flat screens at every turn so you’ll never miss a game, no matter the sport. Great beer selection and comfort food-style bar menu, plus salads and wraps. 715 J St., East Village, 619.546.0815. Map Q17 THE CASBAH Small but legendary rock club has hosted superstars like Nirvana and Smashing Pumpkins on their way up. Live music nightly. 2501 Kettner Blvd., Midtown, 619.232.4355. Map P15 CRAFT + COMMERCE This cozy watering hole features reclaimed wood ceilings, a library (with real books!) and craft cocktails by the city’s top mixologists. Prepare to wait for a table on weekends. 675 W. Beech St., Little Italy, 619.269.2202. Map P15 EAST VILLAGE TAVERN & BOWL This lively sports bar and bowling alley near Petco Park also offers darts and pool. Fun bar menu. 950 Market St., East Village, 619.677.BOWL. Map R17 EL CAMINO Indoor/outdoor Mexican eatery and cantina features unique under-the-flight-path location.

2400 India St., Little Italy, 619.685.3881. Map P15 EL DORADO Hip downtown bar boasts retro-clad mixologists, couture cocktails and DJs. 1030 Broadway, East Village, 619.237.0550. Map Q17 THE FIELD Gaslamp Irish pub has excellent fish ‘n’ chips, frothy pints and patio seating, plus live entertainment select evenings. 544 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.232.9840. Map Q16 FLUXX Ambiance-changing dance club from the design team behind Sidebar and Stingaree. 500 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.232.8100. Map Q16 HENRY’S PUB Nightclub and restaurant serves California cuisine and showcases live entertainment nightly. A Gaslamp staple. 618 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.238.2389. Map Q16 HOUSE OF BLUES Live rock, blues and pop music, plus Sunday gospel brunch. Regular mix of national and regional acts. Call for current shows. 1055 Fifth Ave., downtown, 619.299.2583. Map Q16 ROOFTOP 600 Vegas-worthy club in the Andaz Hotel boasts sexy décor and a massive, recently renovated rooftop bar with downtown views. 600 F St., Gaslamp, 619.814.2055. Map Q16

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watch • learn • shop Over 200 local artists in 37 working art studios located in Balboa Park. open daily from 11am-4pm

www.spanishvillageart.com Spanish Village Art Center • 1770 Village Place • San Diego, CA 92101

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Nightlife THE LION’S SHARE A dark, eclectic neighborhood den with funky art on the walls and fresh, meticulously crafted cocktails. 629 Kettner Blvd., Marina District, 619.564.6924. Map Q15 QUALITY SOCIAL Surprises at this “elevated dive bar” include live art, a vintage photo booth, private champagne parlor and an emphasis on Scotch and rye. 789 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.501.7675. Map Q16 THE SHOUT! HOUSE Dueling pianos played by impossible-to-stump musicians. Music ranges from classic rock to contemporary hits. 655 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.231.6700. Map Q16 SIDEBAR DJs, dancing and strong cocktails at this sexy, modern downtown lounge. Great spot to splurge on bottle service. Watch out for swinging bird cages. 536 Market St., Gaslamp, 619.696.0946. Map Q16 STINGAREE Tri-level dance club with rooftop cabanas.

Ultra hip nightspot with several house specialty drinks.

Dress code enforced. 454 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.544.9500. Map Q16

M BA RO

BOO M

MADE F

THE TIPSY CROW A neighborhood bar with three levels including pool tables, shuffleboard and trivia.

770 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.338.9300. Map Q16 THE TILTED KILT Scottish-themed pub near the ballpark has 30 plasma TVs and pretty barmaids serving up 24 international brews. 310 10th Ave., East Village, 619.814.5458. Map Q17 VIN DE SYRAH Alice in Wonderland-themed nightspot has eye-popping design, live music, wine and full bar. 901 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.234.4166. Map Q16 VOYEUR Punk-inspired Gaslamp bar features DJs, fashion events and an on-site boutique. 755 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.756.7678. Map Q16

La Jolla

BARFLY Sports bar by day, DJ/dance club by night in the heart of the village. 909 Prospect St., 858.454.2323. Map W19 CAFÉ JAPENGO Beautiful people to go along with the artistic sushi and Asian fusion fare. 8960 University Center Lane, UTC, 858.450.3355. Map T21

North County

BELLY UP North County’s premier live music venue with killer local and touring acts. 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach, 858.481.8140. Map X22 CARDIFF BEACH BAR AT TOWER 13 Casual beach haunt features live music, healthier bar fare and ocean views. 2633 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, 760.635.1200. Map V22 CLUB M AT THE GRAND DEL MAR This chic bar and dance club features live music and guest DJs on Friday and Saturday nights. 5300 Grand Del Mar Court, Carmel Valley, 858.314.2700. Map D2 COYOTE BAR & GRILL Hot live music and cool fire pits. Indoor/outdoor spot offers casual ambiance and a view. 300 Carlsbad Village Drive, Carlsbad, 760.729.4695. Map T22 EN FUEGO Lively singles vibe and tasty Mexican food served up on this restaurant’s bustling patio. 1342 Camino del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.6551. Map X22 JIMMY O’S A favorite of sports fans and locals.

Choose between the sports bar and the nightclub.

225 W. 15th St., Del Mar, 858.350.3735. Map X22 SADDLE BAR Enjoy craft beer, stiff drinks, live music and DJs at this Wild West-inspired bar located one mile from the racetrack. 123 W. Plaza St., Solana Beach, 858.755.5007. Map W22

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Tours +Transport Beaches

710 BEACH CLUB Steps from the beach, this live music venue has everything from rock to hip-hop. 710 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach, 858.483.7844. Map H8 HUMPHREY’S BACKSTAGE LOUNGE Live jazz and blues along with dancing. A longtime favorite located right on the water. 2241 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.224.3577. Map K8 JRDN Tower 23 Hotel’s hip bar overlooks the ocean and has a variety of cocktails and a raw bar. 4551 Ocean Blvd., Pacific Beach, 858.270.5736. Map H8 SOUTH BEACH BAR & GRILL Just steps away from the ocean, this bar offers a beachy-casual vibe, light fare and drinks. 5059 Newport Ave., Ocean Beach, 619.226.4577. Map J8 TURQUOISE CAFÉ BAR EUROPA This casual, Euro-style wine bar has tapas, cask wines and live music nightly. 873 Turquoise St., Pacific Beach, 858.488.4200. Map H8

Renting a car is as easy as ordering room service.

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To make a reservation, call (888)484-Hotel(4683) or e-mail viphotel@erac.com.

Tours + Transport BALBOA PARK Free tours about history, architecture, horticulture and botanical gardens. Call for schedule.

Visitors Center, House of Hospitality, 1549 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.0512. Map P17 BIPLANE, AIR COMBAT & WARBIRD ADVENTURES Among the airborne tours offered are gentle or thrilling coastal biplane rides for two, you-fly-it air combat, and loops and rolls in a WWII warbird. Montgomery Field, 760.930.0903.

CITYPASS Discount combo packages for the San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, SeaWorld, Universal Studios Hollywood, Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure. $279 (kids $239). 888.330.5008, citypass.com.

CORONADO HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION TOURS History and architecture walking tours including the Hotel del Coronado. Reservations required. 1100 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.8788. Map L11 CORONADO TOURING Walking tour around the historic Hotel del Coronado and neighborhood.

An ideal way to explore the area. Tu, Th and Sa at 11 a.m. $12; children 3 and under free. Meet at Glorietta Bay Inn, 1630 Glorietta Blvd., Coronado, 619.435.5993. Map L11

Applies to Economy through SUV size vehicles reserved in advance for rentals up to 30 days at participating Southern California locations. Participating locations are available by calling 1 800 rent-a-car. Sorry, this offer is not valid at airport locations. Rates are as posted at time of reservation at enterprise.com or by calling 1 800 rent-a-car. Weekly rates may apply depending on length of rental or for longer rental needs. Rental must end by December 31, 2014. Offer may not be used with other coupons, offers or discounted rates. Vehicles are subject to availability. Standard rental qualifications apply. Offer does not apply to taxes, surcharges, recovery fees, and optional products and services including damage waiver at $14.99 or less per day. Check your auto insurance policy and/or credit card agreement for rental vehicle coverage. Other restrictions, including holiday and blackout dates, may apply. Pick-up and drop-off service is subject to geographic and other restrictions. Void where prohibited. ©2013 Enterprise Rent-A-Car. E01833 10.13 JM

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DESTINATION TEMECULA Door-to-door excursions to Temecula Wine Country, including wine tastings, complimentary wine glass, lunch and free time in Old Town Temecula. 28475 Old Town Front St., Temecula, 800.584.8162. Map A2 ENTERPRISE Daily car rentals with approximately 25 locations throughout Orange County and San Diego.

Pick-up service available. 888.484.HOTEL FLAGSHIP CRUISES AND EVENTS Daily narrated tours of San Diego Bay plus brunch and dinner cruises, water-taxi service and more. 990 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 800.442.7847. Map Q14 GASLAMP QUARTER HISTORICAL FOUNDATION Two-hour walking tour of the Gaslamp. Sa 11 a.m. $15. 410 Island Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.4692. Map R16 GASLAMP SEGWAY Guided segway tours of historic neighborhoods including La Jolla and Coronado.

Reservations required. Instruction provided for Segway newbies. 308 G St., Gaslamp, 619.239.2111. Map R16 HORNBLOWER CRUISES Daily narrated tours of San Diego Bay, plus dinner cruises, yacht charters, whale watching, weddings and events. 1066 N. Harbor Drive, Broadway Pier, Embarcadero, 855.552.9059. Map Q14

SAN DIEGO 467 5TH AVENUE 619•230•8424 LAGUNA BEACH 1750 SOUTH COAST HIGHWAY 949•494•8424 NEWPORT BEACH 4001 WEST COAST HIGHWAY 949•645•8424

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Tours +Transport MAGICAL ADVENTURES Offering hot air balloon flights over scenic Del Mar and Temecula Valley Wine Country for an unforgettable sightseeing experience.

866.ENJOY.US. OLD TOWN TROLLEY TOURS OF SAN DIEGO Narrated sightseeing tour explores San Diego and Coronado via trolley or “SEAL” (sea and land vehicle).

On-and-off boarding privileges. Call for nearest pickup point and reservations. 619.298.8687.

ORION SAILING CHARTERS Offering daily cruises on San Diego Bay. Charters are also available on classic 1934 sailing vessel. Sheraton Harbor Island East, 1380 Harbor Island Drive, 619.574.7504. Map P13 SAIL SAN DIEGO Enjoy San Diego Bay on afternoon and sunset sails. Snacks and drinks included. Customized accommodations available. 2051 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.297.7426. Map K9 SAN DIEGO CHINESE HISTORICAL SOCIETY Unique walking tour of the Asian Pacific Historic District. Second Tu-Sa 10:30 a.m., Su noon. Reservations required. $2; children under 12 free. Chinese Historical Museum, 404 Third Ave., downtown, 619.338.9888. Map R16 SAN DIEGO SCENIC TOURS Daily half-day and fullday tours of interesting attractions in San Diego and Mexico, including the famous Agua Caliente Racetrack in Tijuana. 858.273.8687.

SEAL TOUR This unique amphibious tour explores San Diego Bay and its environs. Departs Th-M from Seaport Village. 619.298.8687. Map Q15 SKYSURFER HOT AIR BALLOON COMPANY 40-60-minute hot-air balloon tours (with champagne) over Del Mar and Temecula. 2658 Del Mar Heights Road #198, Del Mar, 858.481.6800. Map X22 SO DIEGO TOURS Culinary, nightlife and bike/ walk sightseeing tours from an insider’s perspective, geared toward active visitors looking for a departure from traditional sightseeing. 525 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.8687. Map Q16 SUP CORONADO Group and private lessons in the new sport of stand-up paddleboarding, plus ocean and bay tours. Various Coronado locations, 619.888.7686.

SUPER SHUTTLE Runs to and from the airport 24 hours a day. All major cards. Individuals, groups and charters welcome. Earn frequent-flier points and miles with select airlines. 800.BLUE.VAN. SKYY LIMOUSINE Upscale limousine and sedan service for the savvy traveler. Call for reservations.

1310 K St., East Village, 619.239.SKYY. Map Q17 URBAN SAFARIS Weekend walkabouts of San Diego neighborhoods (or by appointment). Covers key points of interest and unique details for every area. 619.944.9255.

WHERE YOU WANT TO BE TOURS Scavenger hunt explores downtown San Diego. Walk and bike tours also available. 619.917.6037.

XPLORE OFFSHORE Personalized ocean-rafting on a Navy SEAL-style boat: high-speed sightseeing, snorkeling and evening cocktails on the waterfront.

858.456.1636.

where?

Log on anywhere.

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CONTINUES AT BOTTOM RIGHT To r r e y P i n e s State Reser ve Copyright © 2013

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30 things we love San Diego

27

6

20

1

17 Ice-skating along the beach at Hotel del Coronado, in shorts, in the dead of winter. p. 9

All-you-can-eat meat served gaucho-style at Brazilian steakhouse Fogo de Chão. p. 11

Teeing off like a pro at the ocean-facing Torrey Pines Golf Course, home of the Farmers Insurance Open, Jan. 23-26. p. 9

Morning hikes at Torrey Pines State Reserve. p. 31

Dining at the city’s best restaurants for way fewer dollars than usual during San Diego Restaurant Week. p. 9 Surfing and snow-skiing in the same day, in the same county, just because you can.

Dodging (or collecting) flying bead necklaces at the Gaslamp Mardi Gras Festival. p. 9 Choosing “dessert” at Bang Bang downtown—either the Ninja Cake, or a visit to the Ryan Gosling-themed bathroom. p. 10 Sushi and jaw-dropping ocean views at Cannonball restaurant in Belmont Park. p. 11

where in the world

Touring museums at Balboa Park for half-price during the month of February. p. 9 Staying classy at SeaWorld, where scenes in the Anchorman sequel were filmed. p. 14 Pecan pie at Magnolia. p. 24 Making your own custom perfume at Tijon. 619.821.8219 Touring the stunning new Central Library in East Village and checking out an actual book.

(They still print ‘em!)

Touring new exhibits at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego in La Jolla. p. 12 Antiquing in “O.B.” p. 32

WHERE is an international network of magazines first published in 1936 and distributed in 4,000 leading hotels in more than 50 places around the world. Look for us when you visit any of the following cities, or plan ahead for your next trip by visiting us online at wheretraveler.com UNITED STATES Alaska, Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charleston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Georgia, Indianapolis, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Maui, Minneapolis/St. Paul,

A little liquid courage at Queenstown. p. 25 Retail therapy at The Headquarters at Seaport District. p. 16 Whale-watching, baby!

Slurping Hangover Soup on a chilly day at Leroy’s Kitchen in Coronado. 619.437.6087 Learning about mezcal at The Hake Kitchen & Bar, which boasts the largest selection in San Diego. p. 21

29 Spending a Saturday night at the San Diego Opera—complete with gourmet food trucks and craft beer and wine sampling at intermission. p. 12 The massive chandelier at Lucky Bastard Saloon, made entirely from drained Jack Daniels bottles. Odd but cool. p. 64 Boutique-hopping along Fir Street in Little Italy; we love the new Love & Aesthetics shop for unusual gift finds. p. 23

Biking along the scenic stretches of Spanish Landing, taking in downtown and marina views, right before sunset.

Clearing the pipes with a rejuvenating “salt therapy” session at the new Salt Room in La Jolla.

(All you do is sit back, relax and breathe in salt particles imported from the Dead Sea!) p. 31

Romantic gondola rides through the Coronado Cays.

619.429.6317

Drooling over Halston Heritage pieces at Poppy Boutique. 858.756.5528

Gallery-hopping your way through the Cedros Design District in Solana Beach. p. 36

Belting out “Adrian!!!” from the top of Cowles Mountain at Mission Trails Regional Park.

New Orleans, New York, Northern Virginia, Oahu, Orange County (CA), Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix/Scottsdale, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, South Florida, St. Louis, Washington, D.C. ASIA Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore CANADA Calgary, Canadian Rockies, Edmonton, Halifax, Muskoka/Parry Sound, Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver, Victoria, Whistler, Winnipeg EUROPE Budapest, London, Milan, Moscow, Paris, Rome, St. Petersburg

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