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Winter 2019 SoCalPulSe.Com
san diego
mexiCan eatS & agave CoCktailS San Diego oPera’S new SeaSon the art of beer hall hoPPing
BBQ Bliss
where to make a pit stop for the tastiest barbecue in town
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For tickets and information, visit the ticket booth on the Embarcadero or at the Maritime Museum Gift Shop aboard the historic steam ferry Berkeley. Low admission for all ages.
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Winter 2019
COntents
the dining issue
departments
the guide
4 Editor’s Note
36 Dining Restaurants by cuisine and neighborhood
San Diego is quite delicious.
6 Hot Dates Holiday festivities, San Diego Museum Month, Farmers Insurance Open and more.
48 Entertainment Special events, festivals, concerts and performing arts
64 30 Things We Love
52 Attractions + museums Theme parks, wineries, activities and exhibitions
Ice skating by the beach, lobster rolls, whale watching and more.
55 Shopping The county’s best malls and major retail destinations
where now 8 Dining Sushi at Hidden Fish, French fare at the Westgate Room and bloody marys at Farmer’s Table.
57 nightlife Hot dance clubs, laid-back lounges and cool cocktail bars
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10 Out + About
57 TOURS + TRANSPORT Getting out, getting around and getting an insider’s look at the city
El Chingon’s famous Madero cocktail
Beer hall hopping at the city’s new hotspots for local craft brews, including Nolita Hall, Duck Foot East Village and more.
City Tours
Inside San Diego Opera’s new season, including epic operas such as Rigoletto and Carmen. SAN DIEGO
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SAN DIEGO OPERA’S NEW SEASON THE ART OF BEER HALL HOPPING
WHERE TO MAKE A PIT STOP FOR THE TASTIEST BARBECUE IN TOWN
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Agave spirits are the stars of the cocktail menus at the city’s newest crop of restaurants—marrying tequila, mezcal and more with elevated Mexican cuisine and stylish decor. By sarah daoust
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Copyright © 2018
where San Diego
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CALIFORNIA Mendocino
San Diego is a prime destination for barbecue lovers, and we rounded up some of the city’s top BBQ outposts to prove it. From central Texas and Memphis style to dry-rubbed and hickory-smoked, the city’s dining scene has gone hog wild with tasty possibilities. By sarah daoust
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ON THE COVER Barbecue perfection: perfectly smoked meats and savory sides at Grand Ole BBQ y Asado. (See feature on p. 18.)
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12 All About Agave BBQ Bliss
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S.D. Opera’s Rigoletto MEXICAN EATS & AGAVE COCKTAILS
Downtown La Jolla Beach Cities Uptown North Coast Balboa Park
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Connect with us online
socalpulse.com Get the up-to-the-minute buzz from our Southern California editors online and on your smartphone.
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cover, courtesy grand ole bbq Y asado; this page from top, courtesy el chingon, Ken Howard
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welcome A Note From the Editor
LO O K I N T O T H E W I L D , I N D I A , 2 0 1 2 STEVE WINTER L I M I T E D E D I T I O N S A N D A P ’ S AVA I L A B L E
BEHIND EVERY ONE OF OUR ICONIC IMAGES IS AN AMAZING S T O R Y. MENTION “WHERE VIP” TO R E C E I V E A S P E C I A L PREVIEW OF OUR GALLERIES.
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Food for Thought
Last summer, I spent a long weekend in Dallas, Texas— where I had my first authentic Texas barbecue experience at an iconic little eatery called Lockhart Smokehouse. It was love at first tear of the butcher paper containing their heavenly smoked brisket, pork ribs and jalapeño sausage. Since then, I have been obsessed with barbecue. Luckily, I’ve discovered that San Diego is obsessed with it, too—the city
is home to some stellar BBQ joints. And my field research for our feature (see p. 18) has been downright delicious … and educational. Barbecue styles vary by state, region and even city—central Texas, Memphis, Kansas City and Louisiana, to name a few. I danced among descriptors such as dry-rubbed, hickorysmoked, slow-cooked, house-made and “no sauce needed.” San Diego offers it all, and I hope you find a favorite among our roundup of 10 eateries doing barbecue right. Of course, I didn’t stop there. Cocktails have been calling my name—in particular, agave-based craft libations paired with refined, gastropub-style Mexican cuisine. New restaurants offering the best of both are cropping up all over town (p. 12). Not that I’m complaining; just trying to keep up. I also did a little beer hall hopping. With nearly 160 breweries, San Diego is the country’s proud craft beer capital; and the city’s newer lounge-style beer halls and bars invite you to relax and sample some of the best local and regional brews (p. 10). Finally, I invite you to sample a watermelon-sized bloody mary that could feed a family of four at Farmer’s Table in La Mesa; enjoy traditional sushi omakase-style at Hidden Fish in the Convoy District; and feast on elegant French fare at the newly remodeled Westgate Room at the Westgate Hotel downtown (pp. 8-9). Suffice it to say, our annual dining issue is good enough to eat. Bon appétit! —Sarah Daoust
SAN DIEGO 628 L STREET LG A L L E R Y @ N ATG E O F I N E A R T.C O M
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Since then, I have been obsessed with barbecue. Luckily, I’ve discovered that San Diego is obsessed with it, too—the city is home to some stellar BBQ joints.”
TIm King
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where MAGAZINE
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3990 Old Town Ave., Suite B200 San Diego, CA 92110 Phone: 619.260.5599 Fax: 619.260.5598 EMAIL Advertising JLevy@WhereSD.com Editorial Sarah.Daoust@WhereSD.com Art Art@WhereSD.com Production Ads@WhereSD.com Website William.Yelles@WhereSD.com Circulation Eva.Scattergood@WhereSD.com Plan ahead for your next visit to San Diego— subscribe to where: Single copy $4, 4 issues $16. Contact: Eva Scattergood, phone: 619.260.5599 E-mail: Eva.Scattergood@WhereSD.com © 2018 Southern California Media Group. All Rights Reserved. Published by Southern California Media Group. where makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part strictly prohibited. where is a registered trademark of Morris Visitor Publications.
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WHERE CALENDAR
HOT DATES Winter 2019
TOP STOPS NAB SOME HOLIDAY SPIRIT WITH THESE FUN SEASONAL FESTIVITIES.
DEC. 7-8 BRIGHT LIGHTS Attracting more than 300,000 visitors, Balboa Park December Nights is the largest free community festival in San Diego. Festivities include live music, dance performances and holiday light displays, and many museums open their doors free of charge. p. 48
7 THINGS NOT TO BE MISSED 1 WHALE WATCHING > ONGOING The winter and spring months are especially ideal for sighting both blue and gray whales in San Diego waters. Plan a whale watching excursion for February or March, and you won’t be disappointed. p. 48
HERE FOR THE WEEKEND? Check out our Weekend Roundup at SoCalPulse.com for the up-to-the-minute lowdown on the coolest concerts, sporting events, festivals, art exhibits and restaurants.
2 ICE SKATING > THROUGH JAN. 1 Celebrate the holidays San Diego-style with Skating by the Sea, a temporary outdoor ice skating rink on the Hotel del Coronado’s Windsor Lawn. p. 48 3 MLK JR. DAY PARADE > JAN. 20 Celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at this 38th annual waterfront parade along San Diego Bay. Enjoy an afternoon of bands, floats and drill teams as they march along the Embarcadero on Harbor Drive. p. 48
4 S.D. RESTAURANT WEEK > JAN. 20-27 Dine out for less during this celebration of local dining. More than 180 restaurants across the county will offer prix-fixe menus at significantly reduced price points. p. 48 5 S.D. MUSEUM MONTH > FEB. 1-28 Explore 40-plus of the county’s top museums (pictured at left, San Diego Museum of Art), historical sites and gardens for half-off admission. p. 48 6 CHINESE NEW YEAR FAIR > FEB. 16-17 This free celebration features more than 25 performances, children’s crafts, a lantern parade, and a variety of Chinese and Asian foods and cultural displays downtown. p. 50 7 MARDI GRAS > MARCH 1-5 Celebrate at the Gaslamp Mardi Gras Party Hop (largest festival on the West Coast) March 1; and party for days during Hillcrest Mardi Gras Weekend, March 2-5. p. 50
DEC. 15 BIBLE STUDY At Las Posadas: An Old Town Tradition, see Old Town decked out for the holidays with extended shopping hours, strolling carolers and Las Posadas—a centuriesold tradition in which actors reenact the biblical journey of Mary and Joseph through the town of Bethlehem. p. 48
DEC. 31 HOT AIR Check out the country’s largest balloon parade along Harbor Drive skirting San Diego Bay at the Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade, including floats and marching bands. p. 48
BOTTOM, © F8GRAPHER / DREAMSTIME.COM
JAN. 24-27 TEE TIME
It’s that time of year again! Don’t miss the annual Farmers Insurance Open—a four-day competition during which the top pro golfers in the world tee off at the stunning, ocean-view Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla. As San Diego’s most celebrated and prestigious PGA tournament (Jason Day sank an 18-inch birdie putt on the sixth playoff hole in a sudden death heat to beat Alex Noren last year), the action-packed spectacle includes post-parties presented by Harrah’s Resort SoCal, a Pro-Am Tournament, exclusive lounges and charitable activities. p. 48
DEC. 9 & 16 FLOAT ON At the 47th annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights, see San Diego Bay twinkle with more than 80 private boats decked out with holiday lights for a festive night on the water, beginning at 5 p.m. each evening. p. 48
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WHERE NOW The best in entertainment, attractions, shopping and dining
DINING
Secret Sushi Consider it a speakeasy for sushi … well sort of. Welcome to the Convoy District’s newest, semi-secret offering: Hidden Fish. The intimate, industrial-mod dining den is the city’s first traditional omakase (which loosely translates to “I’ll leave it up to you”) sushi spot—meaning your meal is decided by Chef John Hong. Known as Chef Kappa, Hong trained under sushi master Yukio Sakai in Los Angeles; locally, his portfolio includes stints at Bang Bang and Sushi Ota. The restaurant features rotating catches flown in from the famous Tsukiji Fish Market in Japan—from toro tartare and bluefin tuna nigiri with uni, black truffle and sturgeon caviar; to cured mackerel nigiri, albacore tataki and handrolls. Hidden Fish offers a “timed dining” concept that is popular in Japan and NYC. Eight seats are reserved at the sushi bar for a 30-minute, 12-piece menu for $50 per person; or enjoy a 90-minute, 18-piece experience for $90. Beer, wine and sake to drink. 4764 Convoy St., Suite A, Clairemont Mesa, 858.210.5056
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Farmer's Table La Mesa; The Peter Rabbit bloody mary
DOWN ON THE FARM The giant tractor parked in the middle of their La Mesa flagship says it all: Farmer’s Table is committed to true farm-to-fork dining. Their other claim to fame? Jaw-dropping bloody marys that double as meals that could easily feed a family of four—with “toppings” such as bacon-wrapped hot dogs, braised short ribs and a whole-roasted chicken. Outfitted in warm woods and whimsical, farm-inspired decor, Farmer's Table radiates a welcoming neighborhood vibe. Dine on Italian-inspired California cuisine with dishes such as duck gnocchi and eggplant bucatini, plus flatbreads and salads—all made with locally sourced organic ingredients from San Diego’s top artisanal vendors. Weekend brunch includes tiramisu French toast and house-made meatball hash. And Farmer’s Table is expanding, complete with a just-opened, 3,500-square-foot second location in Bay Park, and a third slated to open in Little Italy’s new Piazza della Famiglia in spring 2019. 3055 Clairemont Drive, Bay Park, 619.359.4485; 8141 La Mesa Blvd., La Mesa, 619.724.6465
ALL PHOTOS ARE COURTESY IMAGES.
Parisian Affair Escape to Paris, France without leaving town at the Westgate Hotel’s newly reimagined Westgate Room restaurant and Plaza Bar. Both boast new menus and refreshed decor epitomizing old-world European elegance infused with modern amenities. At the Westgate Room, veteran Executive Chef Fabrice Hardel oversees a sophis-
ticated menu of French culinary delights. Favorites include the grilled octopus with watermelon, feta and nicoise olives; Dungeness crab cakes with lobster bisque cappuccino; bourbon-glazed kurobuta pork chops; butternut squash ravioli; almond milk panna cotta for dessert; and much more. Inside the cozy Plaza Bar, enjoy live jazz nightly
from renowned musicians and elegant small plates. We love the wagyu sirloin sliders topped with aged cheddar; and the prosciutto flatbread with pesto, buratta and artichokes. An updated cocktail menu features signature drinks such as the Hemingway Daiquiri and the T.W.H. Sangria. 1055 Second Ave., downtown, 619.238.1818
Martinis in the making at Plaza Bar
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WHERE NOW / Winter
2019
DETAILS Duck Foot East Village 550 Park Blvd., Suite #2104, East Village, 619.550.1970 Nolita Hall 2305 India St., Little Italy, 619.255.8000 Saint Archer Brewing Company 978 N. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 858.225.2337 Second Chance Beer Lounge 4045 30th St., North Park, 619.487.1470
OUT + ABOUT
Beer Hall Hopping Sample suds at the city’s newest stomping grounds for craft brew lovers. AS THE NATION’S CRAFT BEER CAPITAL, San Diego is home to nearly 160 breweries and counting; plus dozens of tasting rooms and brewpubs. And a crop of new beer halls and haunts recently have opened to showcase the city’s best—inviting you to sip, savor and snack. We rounded up a few of our new favorites. Parked at the north end of Little Italy, Black Swan Hospitality’s Nolita Hall is a European-style, elevated beer hall—spanning 13,000 square feet with soaring ceilings punctuated by a massive skylight; plus 13-foot floor-to-ceiling windows. Grab a seat at the bar or communal table for a pour from the draft list, which offers nearly two dozen locally brewed beers. We love the Mex Choc PB Stout from Belching Beaver Brewery. Or choose from more than a dozen beers by the can and bottle; craft cocktails; and elevated bar fare that includes gourmet pizzas, organic salads, sandwiches and mini “choco tacos” for dessert. Find local and regional beers and dinerstyle comfort food at indoor/outdoor outpost Working Class in North Park. We like to sit at one of the picnic tables on their covered patio and order from their draft list, which is cleverly sectioned into “Easier Drinking,” “Hops, Hops, Hops,” “Malts,” “Fruity or Sour” and “Coming Soon.” Try
the Bell's Special Double Cream Stout malt or the Alaskan Amber alt-style ale to wash down the shrimp and cheddar grits on their dinner menu. Also in North Park, Second Chance Beer Lounge is the latest offering by local brewer Second Chance Beer Co. It’s a dog-friendly, urban warehouse-style space (complete with rollup doors)—offering brand staples, seasonal pours and lounge-exclusive beers. Try the smooth, black Tabula Rasa porter or the Belgian-style Glorious golden ale.
Clockwise from top: Second Chance Beer Lounge; a Duck Foot East Village craft brew; Saint Archer Brewing Co.'s Leucadia tasting room.
Downtown, Miramar-headquartered Duck Foot Brewing Co. has opened Duck Foot East Village—a 1,500-square-foot tasting room and restaurant with 16 taps. Known for its gluten-free beers and limited releases, it’s a brewery with a sense of humor, which shows up in such pours as its Drink This or The Bees Die honey ale and the supersized Duckzilla double white IPA. A boutique but creative and “mildly health-conscious” food menu by chef Stevan Novoa includes sticky short ribs, trout crudo, charcuterie and house-made hummus with pickled carrots. In North County, local craft brewer Saint Archer Brewing Company has opened a new, 1,200-square-foot tasting room in Leucadia. The modern space is as adorable as its beer tasting flights, with light wood paneling, local artwork dotting the walls and a small bar with 30 taps. Be sure to tastetest the Coco Stout, Citra Session IPA and Mexican Lager. Bottoms up!
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: COURTESY IMAGE, TOM WILLIAMS, COURTESY IMAGE. OPPOSITE: JEFF ROFFMAN / THE ATL ANTA OPER A
Working Class 4095 30th St., North Park, 619.642.0114
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San Diego Opera presents Bizet's Carmen this season.
ART + CULTURE
HIGH NOTES
San Diego Opera sings with boutique productions and riveting classics this season.
Four years after being deemed not viable by its thenadministrators on the cusp of its 50th anniversary, then resurrected by the heroic efforts of its determined staff, renegade board members and impassioned opera lovers, San Diego Opera appears to have now settled into a new normal—one that’s exciting and delighting local opera lovers with powerful and unexpected productions. Anticipation and momentum have surrounded the 2018-19 season. It’s been a full-speed-ahead return to
some great classics (beginning with The Marriage of Figaro last October) that local audiences haven’t seen in years; plus a mix of favorite artists and lots of exciting debuts. All Is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 plays at Balboa Theatre Dec. 7-9; and two of the more famous operas of all time take over the Civic Theatre stage this season. Last performed here in 2009, Verdi’s 1851 powerful tragedy Rigoletto (Feb. 2, 5, 8 and 10) will star Stephen Powell, returning in triumph from last season’s La
Traviata, in the title role of the cursed court jester. Coloratura soprano Alisa Jordheim makes her company debut as Rigoletto’s sheltered daughter, Gilda, and Scott Quinn debuts as the dastardly Duke, who gets one of the most famous tenor arias in all opera, “La donne è mobile.” Also making debuts are conductor Steven White and Canadian director Michael Cavanaugh. A standout of last season’s dētour Series was an intense, pared-down version of The Tragedy of Carmen. Fans of Bizet’s classic will
be delighted to hear the full grand opera version, Carmen (March 30; April 2, 5 and 7). Mezzo-soprano Ginger CostaJackson makes her company debut in the smoldering title role, with tenor Robert Watson debuting as her violently jealous lover, Don José, baritone Scott Connor as the bullfighter Escamillo, and soprano Sarah Tucker as Don José’s jilted fiancee, Micaëla. As always, things end badly—and bloodily—for the fiery gypsy. sdopera.org —Stephanie Saad Thompson WINTER 2019 WHERE SAN DIEGO 11
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It’s no news flash that San Diego is a hub for fine Mexican dining, tequila and taco shops. Yet, over the last two years, a movement has been growing of chefs
The Los Muertos cocktail at Death by Tequila. Opposite: craft tacos at Lola 55.
and bartenders looking to take things up a notch, not simply with cuisine, but also with what to wash it all down with … and agave spirits have become the stars. This means chef-driven fare that is familiar, yet refined and progressive; and cocktails that celebrate and epitomize the very best of Baja and other regions beyond our border to the south. Here are nine of our new favorites.
Death By Tequila Death by tequila? Let’s hope not. Taking a break from our cares courtesy of tequila? Yes. The contemporary restaurant and bar in Encinitas serves healthy, coastal Baja cuisine crafted by Executive Chef Angelo Sosa (a Top Chef alum). Menu standouts include the woodfired salsa, organic street tacos, albacore aguachile and a veggie entree that changes daily. The bar menu boasts 80-plus tequilas, 30 mezcals, and wines and beers from Valle de Guadalupe. We’ll drink to that. 569 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.782.2240
all about
Agave
The city’s latest crop of restaurants marry tequila, mezcal and more with refined Mexican fare. by Sarah daoust
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opening spread: sam wells; cole ferguson. this page: cole ferguson; Antonio Díaz de Sandi. opposite: Antonio Díaz de Sandi.
Lola 55 A chef-driven taco shop with a full bar? Sold. Touted as a “fine-casual” concept, Lola 55 is just that—a 3,200-square-foot, counter-service-style, modern eatery by Tijuana-born founder Frank Vizcarra. Executive Chef and partner Andrew Bent oversees a boutique menu of about nine beautifully crafted tacos— including squash blossom rellano, rib-eye carne asada, spicy smoked fish, and vegan and gluten-free tacos. Bar manager Gareth Moore has designed a menu of fresh, citrus-forward agave libations. Try the Tequila Sling, infused with Creole Shrubb, Jamaica, pineapple, lime and cava. For dessert: homemade churros and ice cream sandwiches. Designed by Bells & Whistles (the edgy design team behind the coolest spots in town), the space alone is reason to visit—soaring industrial ceilings, lush indoor foliage, a turquoise-tiled bar and turquoise-topped tables, and floor-to-ceiling windows. It’s a true urban oasis. 1290 F St., East Village, 619.542.9155 El Roy’s Tequila Bar + Kitchen Take the ferry or Coronado Bridge across the bay to this charming new offering by Blue Bridge Hospitality. Featuring more than 90 tequilas and mezcals, El Roy’s serves cocktails such as the Smokey Paloma with mezcal, grapefruit and agave nectar; plus mezcal and tequila tasting flights; eight themed margaritas; and sangria, beer and wine. Meanwhile, the food menu marries modern with traditional. Think: Mexican corn pudding, duck confit empanadas, pork belly banh mi tacos, and roasted yam and poblano flautas. Rivaling the exceptional food and drink are the views. Take in panoramas of the bay and
downtown skyline from the restaurant’s 1,200-squarefoot sundeck. 1201 First St., #115, Coronado, 619.537.0195
Tahona Oaxacan cuisine and cocktails arrive in Old Town with the debut of Tahona. The 2,000-square-foot restaurant boasts a dedicated mezcal tasting room with more than 120 varieties; plus agave cocktails such as the Mexican Firing Squad and an old-fashioned margarita. Be on the lookout for special events, organized mezcal-tasting group trips to Baja and Oaxaca, and a rumored speakeasy set to open this winter. 2414 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.255.2090
Death by Tequila’s Jessica’s Hibiscus cocktail; menu sampling at El Jardin. Opposite: El Jardin’s airy bar area.
El Jardin Agave spirits command the cocktail menu at this Liberty Station cocina and tequila bar, helmed by Executive Chef Claudette Zepeda-Wilkins (also a Top Chef alum). Choose from Baja wines, mezcals, tequilas and even Mexican sake. Signature sips—designed by cocktail master Christian Siglin—include the BajaMa Mama with coffee-infused tequila and Backstrap rum, and the Oaxacan Old-Fashioned with reposado tequila and mezcal. To dine, sample regional Mexican cuisine via ancestral recipes from Tijuana to Guadalajara, infused with modern touches. Notable dishes include the roasted bone marrow and crispy octopus; slow-cooked pork shoulder; and the surf and turf tostada loaded with dried shrimp ceviche, crispy carne seca, avocado and grasshoppers (yes, grasshoppers). 2885 Perry Road, Point Loma, 619.795.2322
Volcano Rabbit Named after the world’s second-smallest rabbit, which is native to Mexico, this tequila bar WINTER 2019 WHERE SAN DIEGO 15
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and nightspot-meets-restaurant features a tortilleria, contemporary Mexican fare (we love the craft tacos and short-rib nachos), mini-bottle service and Saturday mega-brunch. The brick-walled, urban-industrial space houses comfy couches, banquette seating, a sidewalk lounge, DJs regularly spinning, and a full bar with the Gaslamp’s largest selection of tequila—with VIP lockers available for connoisseurs. Choose a decadent signature cocktail such as The Smoking Jacket with El Silencio mezcal, agave nectar, Aztec chocolate bitters and a tamarindo lollipop; and the Spiked Horchata with house-made reposado tequila liqueur. And be on the lookout for monthly tequila tasting events. 527 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.232.8226
Juan Tequila Bar & Restaurant It was a bittersweet opening in August 2018 for this upscale, Baja-meetsSan Diego bar and eatery, whose bar manager Cervantes Magana—a locally beloved bartender and bar program designer for numerous hotspots—tragically passed away a few weeks prior. Owners Gustavo Giardelli, Jose Dabdoub, Shaker Kan and Daniel Garibay have unveiled a simply beautiful, low-lit urban space—complete with a striking concrete bar with embedded mini sparkle lights, leather-upholstered bar seats, marble-topped tables, glittering chandeliers and hanging lightbulbs. The food menu is a celebration of regional seafood, featuring a raw bar with treats such as grilled chocolate clams and smoked oysters; small plates such as duck chilaquiles and a seasonal cheese selection; and elegant larger plates such as seared pork belly verde, blue-corn-breaded fried chicken, and
Conejo Tamale with confit rabbit leg and braised rabbit saddle. The cocktails are a true celebration of Baja. The Driftwood is a must-try: chili-infused mezcal, sotol (think of it as tequila’s feisty, crazy little brother), cacao, Amaro liqueur and peach. 535 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.458.9455
El Chingon Inspired by Mexican revolutionary Pancho Villa, this two-story venue in the Gaslamp serves up authentic dishes with premium-quality ingredients, agavebased cocktails and a campy sense of humor. Dine on traditional tacos, burritos, tortas, enchiladas, fajitas and a heavenly carne asada plate served with corn tortillas. The libations menu features margaritas; signatures such as the TJ 1920 cocktail with Milagro reposado, Mexican Coca-Cola reduction, red-cherry-apple bitters and sarsaparilla bitters; and Pick Your Poison, featuring pours of tequila, mezcal, sotol and raicilla—a distilled agave spirit born in the Mexican state of Jalisco. Salud! 560 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.501.1919
Blanco Tacos + Tequila Another eatery living up to its name, this new outpost at Fashion Valley Mall is all about the tacos and tequila. The 4,930-square-foot indoor/outdoor restaurant features an expansive tequila and mezcal selection; plus specialty cocktails such as the Ginger Spice Paloma and Oaxacan Shandy. To eat: modern Mexican fare, including gourmet Mexican pizzas, wagyu carne asada tacos, caramelized sweet potato and veggie burritos, and Mexican chocolate tiramisu for dessert. 7007 Friars Road, #901, Mission Valley, 619.810.2931
above: sam wells. left and opposite: courtesy RMD Group / volcano rabbit.
From top: Lola 55’s bright, modern interior; Volcano Rabbit’s Spicy Hacienda cocktail. Opposite: fried fish tacos at Volcano Rabbit.
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BBQ BOOM MAKE A PIT STOP AT THESE HOTSPOTS (PUNS INTENDED) SERVING UP THE CITY’S BEST BARBECUE. by S A R A H DAO U S T
Smoked babyback ribs at Iron Pig Alehouse
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WHERE THERE’S SMOKE, THERE’S FIRE. And where there’s fire, (if you’re lucky) there’s some serious barbecue happening. Barbecue in San Diego has gone hog wild, with a diverse range of eateries earning some serious fanfare among carnivores. While their styles and techniques may vary a bit, these popular outposts are doing it right.
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ALL PHOTOS ARE COURTESY IMAGES.
Grand Ole BBQ y Asado's new El Cajon location
Don’t mess with Texas, especially when it comes to their barbecue. Andy Harris, the pit master behind Grand Ole BBQ y Asado, gets it. His cult-followed outdoor eatery in North Park—known for its smoky, central Texasstyle BBQ and Argentine grilled meats— commands long lines and regularly sells out. But good news: A second, much larger locale recently opened in the Flinn Springs community of El Cajon, and it’s a beauty. Seating 400, the 15,000-square-foot, indoor/ outdoor venue is a barbecue playground— outfitted with a vintage jukebox, a stage for live music (expect country and folk), firepits and picnic tables. The menu, overseen by chef Ami Cisneros, is big, too. In addition to barbecue, find burgers, steaks and specialties such as smoked bone marrow and Frito pie. At Coop’s West Texas BBQ in Lemon Grove, delight in zesty pork and beef ribs, pulled pork and jerk chicken; served with homestyle sides such as collard greens, red beans and rice, mac ‘n’ cheese, and candied yams (on Sundays). Their brisket is the star—smoky, tender and juicy every time. The casual indoor eatery is an institution, with owner Brad “Coop” Cooper usually on hand smiling and working away tirelessly. Save room for the sweet potato pie. In the heart of Mission Beach, Coaster Saloon is celebrating its 35th anniversary with a major remodel and menu upgrade, courtesy of Cohn Restaurant Group (its new owner) and chef Tim Eylens. The beachfront haunt is known for its Texas-style barbecue, featuring oak-smoked beef brisket, babyback pork ribs and chicken hot wings. Find more than 40 beers on tap at the bar; plus more than a dozen flat-screen TVs and a massive outdoor projection screen. Serving up St. Louis-style spare ribs and beef ribs, plus roasted chicken and tri-tip— all of which are spice-rubbed and smoked until tender—Smokeyard BBQ & Chop Shop
is one of the newer dining destinations at the Westfield UTC mall. In addition to barbecue, choose from steaks, pork chops, fish, sandwiches and burgers; plus sides such as BBQ baked beans, sweet potato mash and cornbread with honey butter. Phil’s BBQ is pretty much a household name in San Diego. Founded by owner Phil Pace, the outfit is famous for its mesquitebarbecued baby-back and beef ribs; barbecue sandwiches; rib-less dinners; and sides such as the hailed macaroni salad and colossal onion rings. There’s also specialties such as Phil’s Loaded Fries—fresh-cut French fries, sharp American cheese, barbecue sauce and chopped onions, topped with your choice of pulled pork or deli-sliced tri-tip. The eatery has several locations, but our favorite is its massive flagship restaurant and bar in the Midway District near Point Loma. For the best barbecue in Pacific Beach, head to Iron Pig Alehouse. It’s a sleek, modern dining lounge offering slow-cooked, dry-rubbed, hickory-smoked barbecue; paired with an extensive craft beer selection. The Meat Madness sampler platter offers the best of all worlds: baby-back ribs, pulled chicken, pulled pork, brisket and two sides. We recommend the cheesy smash with Yukon potatoes and sharp cheddar, bacon and sour cream; and the southern greens. Iron Pig also offers a piglet menu for kids. Located at Coronado Ferry Landing, Lil’ Piggy’s Bar-B-Q serves up Memphis-style barbecue amid a cheery space boasting a large patio with bay views. First, choose your meat—pulled pork, sliced brisket, sausage, chicken or ribs. Then pick your style—plate, sandwich, salad, baked potato and even
Details Coaster Saloon 744 Ventura Place, Mission Beach, 858.488.4438 Coop’s West Texas BBQ 2625 Lemon Grove Ave., Lemon Grove, 619.589.0478 Corbin’s Q 6548 El Cajon Blvd., Rolando, 619.913.3287 Felix’s BBQ with Soul 3613 Ocean Ranch Blvd., Oceanside, 760.439.7072 Grand Ole BBQ y Asado 15505 Olde Hwy. 80, El Cajon, 619.561.3015; 3302 32nd St., North Park, 619.213.3765
"Memphis-nacho style." Menu stars also include the Tennessee street tacos, smoked brisket chili, corn fritters and banana pudding for dessert. To drink: 100 beer selections. Southern barbecue meets Louisiana-style soul food at Felix’s BBQ with Soul in the North County city of Oceanside—where it’s all about that southern hospitality, charm and cooking. This means hearty plates of slow-cooked, hickory-smoked ribs and other barbecue fare; plus, catfish, black-eyed peas, fried okra, cornbread muffins, hush puppies and much more—served by welcoming staff in a quaint, music-filled room. Felix’s is a special place that invites you to linger after your meal and relax with friends. Find Kansas City-style barbecue, smoked meat sandwiches and southern classics at The Smok’d Hog (which plans to move from Hillcrest to Temecula early 2019). It’s a cute, comfy eatery decked out in black and white, with a chalkboard spelling out specials and menu favorites. The pulled pork sandwich is divine, as are the smoked baked beans with rib tips, and the pulled chicken plate. Don’t miss Fried Chicken Fridays, and St. Louisstyle ribs are served by the half and full rack on weekends after 4 p.m. And the sauces are stellar; choose from Carolina gold, Carolina vinegar, KC, Sweet Heat and Georgia. Known for its Santa Maria-style barbecue, locations at local farmers markets and catering services, Corbin’s Q has opened its first brick-and-mortar location near San Diego State University. Go straight for the CQ Sampler—tri-tip slices, sausage, pulled pork and chicken thigh—with both their sweet and spicy sauces, and sides of the grilled corn and sweet-potato tater tots. Thank us later.
Iron Pig Alehouse 1520 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach, 858.412.4299
Smoked, grilled meats at Grand Ole BBQ y Asado
Lil’ Piggy’s Bar-B-Q 1201 First St., Coronado, 619.522.0217 Phil’s BBQ 3750 Sports Arena Blvd., Midway District, 619.226.6333 Smokeyard BBQ & Chop Shop 4313 La Jolla Village Drive, #2265, UTC, 858.630.7427 The Smok’d Hog 3749 Park Blvd., Hillcrest, 619.546.5467
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GASLAMP QUARTER
/ DOWNTOWN’S CORE / EAST VILLAGE / LITTLE ITALY / EMBARCADERO
DOWNTOWN
GASLAMP QUARTER 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 historical Gaslamp Quarter, which celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2017. Comprising more than 16 square 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 area, or explore on your own. 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 by emerging artists. Also check out the Art of Tim Cantor Gallery (527 Fourth Ave.) for a variety of one-of-a-kind conceptual art, oil paintings and writings; and National Geographic Gallery (628 L St.). Shop for pre-owned luxury watches at Nikki & Co. Fine Jewelers (562 Fifth Ave.). Stop in locally owned Dolcetti (635 Fifth Ave.) for contemporary men’s and women’s clothing. For more shopping, venture farther up Fifth, where you’ll find retailers such as famed hat boutique Goorin Brothers (631 Fifth Ave.);
Quiksilver (470 Fifth Ave.); Gaslamp Artisan Market (599 Fifth Ave.), with wares by local artisans; and Bubbles Boutique (226 Fifth Ave.) for womenswear. Or make your way over to the brand-new luxury theater complex, Theatre Box (Fifth Avenue and G Street). The two-story, 73,000-square-foot building comprises TCL Chinese Theatre’s first luxury dine-in cinema, Sugar Factory American Brasserie and the Chocolate Lounge. There’s also culture to be had nearby. San Diego Repertory Theatre performs on the Lyceum Theatre stage; and historical Balboa
Theatre anchors the shopping center’s eastern edge, at Fourth Avenue and E Street. And stroll through Horton Plaza Park— featuring an amphitheater, vendors and art installations. For a fun group activity, book an exhilarating interactive experience called The Great Room Escape (424 Market St.), where you’re given clues, riddles and an hour to escape a room. 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; favorite sites 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
great find
CASUAL EATS Located adjacent to the courtyard of the IDEA1 complex in East Village, Young Hickory has opened its second location. The urbanstyle, counter-service cafe offers Bird Rock Coffee Roasters coffee and Tea Gallerie teas; plus breakfast, lunch and dinner; and a back patio. Choose from breakfast sandwiches, paninis, wedge salads and two dozen beers by the can. 810 13th St., East Village, 619.501.5263
(CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) COURTESY IMAGE, KEN HOWARD/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, ©F11PHOTO / DREAMSTIME.COM, CRAVE IMAGERY, COURTESY YOUNG HICKORY
Downtown San Diego is the city’s bustling, historical 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 harborfront, no two downtown visits need be the same.
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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-and-design district. A gallery cluster near the corner of Kettner and Kalmia includes Subtext Gallery (2479 Kettner Blvd.), focused on lowbrow and graphic artists. Shop for vintage and modern furniture, art and home accents at @HOM (2310-B Kettner Blvd.). And pop into Kapreeza (1772 Kettner Blvd.), a European lingerie and swimwear shop. Foodies will enjoy roaming the popular Saturday morning Mercato farmers market on Cedar Street (619.233.3769).
Left to right: Downtown’s Waterfront Park; a Gaslamp Quarter light post; historical Balboa Theatre.
Museum (404 Third Ave.) features a garden and koi pond. The San Diego Symphony performs at Copley Symphony Hall, while San Diego Opera and Broadway/San Diego present productions at the Civic Theatre (1100 Third Ave.), and the Spreckels Theatre (121 Broadway) hosts performing arts events throughout the year.
EAST VILLAGE Petco Park (100 Park Blvd.) and the Central Library (330 Park Blvd.) are major landmarks of this edgy neighborhood. Enjoy some open, green space at Fault Line Park (1433 Island Ave.). For some retail therapy, stop by McKenzie Rae Dresses (643 G St.), which sells elegant frocks and accessories; and Wild Dove Boutique (740 Market St.) for contemporary women’s fashions. The area’s burgeoning art scene includes a few notable out-
posts: Space 4 Art (325 15th St.), a gallery/arts center where artists live and work; and Alexander Salazar Fine Art (225 W. Market St.), a modern art gallery.
LITTLE ITALY A few blocks north of downtown, Little Italy is home to restaurants, galleries, boutiques and markets dotting the main drag, India Street. Highlights include M Winehouse (1918 India St.) wine bar and Ballast Point (2215 India St.) craft beer tasting room; a handful of galleries, such as Meyer Fine Art (2400 Kettner Blvd., #104), featuring contemporary art by renowned artists; and cool shops, including Little Apple (1980 Kettner Blvd., #60), selling women’s clothing. 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.),
The tequilabased Golden Gate at Route 29
insider tips
BOTTOMS UP Try these stylish downtown watering holes for fabulous craft cocktails, beer and wine. Craft & Commerce/ False Idol 675 W. Beech St., Little Italy, 619.269.2202
EMBARCADERO Shop and dine at The Headquarters at Seaport, offering boutiques and galleries; and Seaport Village, with shops, restaurants and galleries such as Wyland Galleries (855 W. Harbor Drive), selling paintings, prints and sculptures by marine life artist Wyland. 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 and embark on sightseeing cruises and/or dinner excursions aboard the Hornblower (970 N. Harbor Drive), or catch the Coronado Ferry (1050 N. Harbor Drive). Make time to tour the retired USS Midway aircraft carrier and the floating Maritime Museum.
Fairweather 795 J St., East Village, 619.255.6507 The Lion’s Share 629 Kettner Blvd., Marina District, 619.564.6924 Noble Experiment 777 G St., East Village, 619.888.4713 The Nolen 453 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.796.6536 Route 29 644 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.235.8144 Top of the Hyatt Manchester Grand Hyatt, 1 Market Place, downtown, 619.232.1234 You & Yours Distilling Co. 1495 G St., East Village, 619.955.8755
WFOR A MAP OF THESE NEIGHBORHOODS, SEE P. 62. FOR RESTAURANTS IN THIS AREA, SEE P. 45. WINTER 2019 WHERE SAN DIEGO 21
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SHOPS & GALLERIES
/ ARTS & SCIENCE / GOLDEN TRIANGLE / RECREATION / TORREY PINES
LA JOLLA Translated as “the jewel,” La Jolla is a gem. The upscale village is known for its specialty boutiques, art galleries and fine-dining venues that offer jaw-dropping coastline views. Nearby, hike at Torrey Pines and shop in the Golden Triangle. photos. Joseph Bellows Gallery (7661 Girard Ave.) mounts regular exhibitions of stunning blackand-white photography. La Jolla Boulevard heads south out of the village toward Bird Rock, where worthwhile boutiques for cutting-edge threads for women include Shabby Chic (5651 La Jolla Blvd.) and Mimi & Red (5680 La Jolla Blvd.). Break for breakfast and fresh-ground coffee at Richard Walker’s Pancake House (909 Prospect St.), or pick up a loaf of freshly made bread at Wayfarer Bread & Pastry (5525 La Jolla Blvd.). The ‘hood 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.
Left to right: Shopping at La Plaza La Jolla in La Jolla Village; surfing at Windansea Beach.
The Stuart Collection, a group of site-specific outdoor artworks, adds to the artistic setting at UC San Diego. A 24-foot giant teddy bear made of boulders and a 560-foot-long “Snake Path” are among the works 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).
great find
REFINED FARE Featuring seasonal fare and an ocean-view dining terrace, The Med is the historical La Valencia Hotel’s culinary crown jewel—led by Executive Chef Alex Emery. Elegant Cali-Mediterranean dishes arrive in the form of scallops, Prime filet and surf ‘n’ turf with wagyu beef, king crab and lobster thermidor. Plus, live music five days a week; and now serving brunch daily. 1132 Prospect St., La Jolla, 855.818.6887
(CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) COURTESY LA PLAZA LA JOLLA, ASHOK SINHA, COURTESY CUSP, COURTESY THE MED
SHOPS & GALLERIES La Jolla’s stylish streets are lined with high-end boutiques, antique stores and art galleries. Prospect Street and Girard Avenue form the spines of the village shopping district, and hidden gems await on the side streets, including boutique stationery shop Sweet Paper (7660 Fay Ave.); and Las Manos del Artesano (7940 Herschel Ave.), a gallery with Latin American folk art. On Girard, La Plaza La Jolla (7863 Girard Ave.) is a fabulous luxury shopping center. We also love women’s apparel boutique Laura Gambucci (7655 Girard Ave.), a well-appointed spot run by Laura herself—offering designer clothing, accessories and shoes. Farther down Girard is Adelaide’s (7766 Girard Ave.), a fabulous floral shop that also sells candles, skin care and home accessories; as well as Barry Lawrence Ruderman Antique Maps (7463 Girard Ave.) and independent bookseller D.G. Wills (7461 Girard Ave.), stocking that rare first-edition. Back on Prospect Street, a slew of female-friendly 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 be sure to check out We Olive (1158 Prospect St.), a wine and olive oil bar featuring olive oil tastings, unique gift ideas and an ocean-view back patio. The village is also home to many well-respected art galleries, whose collections range from landscape photography to Picasso canvases. A handful are clustered on Girard Avenue, making it easy to hop between them. Cosmopolitan Fine Arts (7932 Girard Ave.) showcases contemporary French impressionist paintings; and MANGELSEN: Images of Nature Gallery (7916 Girard Ave.) spotlights nature and wildlife photography by Thomas Mangelsen. Nearby, Ravean Aaron Gallery (1020 Prospect St.) houses surf and travel photography by Ravean Kretowicz; and National Geographic Gallery (1205 Prospect St.) is home to stunning animal and nature
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The Scottish salmon at Cusp
insider tips
LA JOLLA EATS Grab a table at these La Jolla restaurants offering gorgeous views of the cove and coastline. Southwest of campus sits the famous Scripps Institution of Oceanography (8622 Kennel Way) and Birch Aquarium; both are top-rated ocean-life learning centers. In La Jolla Village, the oceanview Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (temporarily closed for renovations), is housed in the former home of Ellen Browning Scripps. The Athenaeum Music & Arts Library (1008 Wall St.) features art exhibitions, concerts, books and records.
RECREATION La Jolla is paradise for adventureseeking ocean lovers. The Cove (1100 Coast Blvd.) hosts sightseers, swimmers, snorkelers and kayakers daily. To explore, visit La Jolla Kayak (2199 Avenida de la Playa) and Hike Bike Kayak (2222 Avenida de la Playa) for rentals and guided tours. La Jolla Shores (8200 Camino del Oro) has easy access for scuba divers. Windansea (6800 Neptune Place) 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.
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 8 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 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, 2-mile sandy strip known for great surfing—and nude sunbathing (“not officially sanctioned”). Nearby, Torrey Pines Golf Course gives golfers the ultimate indulgence: two public courses with stunning ocean views. It’s also the site of the PGA Tour’s annual Farmers Insurance Open.
Brockton Villa 1235 Coast Blvd., La Jolla, 858.454.7393 Catania 7863 Girard Ave., La Jolla, 858.551.5105 Cusp Dining & Drinks 7955 La Jolla Shores Drive, La Jolla, 858.551.3620 Duke’s La Jolla 1216 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.5888 Eddie V’s 1270 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.459.5500 George’s at the Cove 1250 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.4244
GOLDEN TRIANGLE The area east of La Jolla Village is known as the Golden Triangle (or University Town Center, aka “UTC”). Find upscale hotels, fine dining and a shopping district flanked by Westfield UTC, an outdoor mall with shops such as Pandora and Gorjana.
Marine Room 2000 Spindrift Drive, La Jolla, 858.459.7222 The Med La Valencia Hotel, 1132 Prospect St., La Jolla, 855.818.6887
WFOR A MAP OF THESE NEIGHBORHOODS, SEE P. 63. FOR RESTAURANTS IN THIS AREA, SEE P. 45. WINTER 2019 WHERE SAN DIEGO 23
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CORONADO
/ SHELTER ISLAND & HARBOR ISLAND / OCEAN BEACH & POINT LOMA / MISSION BEACH
BEACH CITIES Island, with its many restaurants and nautically themed stores, is the departure point for various sportfishing charters. The area is also home to Humphreys Concerts by the Bay, a 1,400seat outdoor venue. 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.
CORONADO Coronado is an island with smalltown charm. 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 Coronado 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 at Coronado Ferry Landing (1201 First St.), then rent a bike at Pedego Electric Bikes (1132 First St.) 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 Root 75 Flowers & Home (845 Orange Ave.); Coronado
Taste of Oils (954 Orange Ave.) to sample 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 home accents and jewelry. 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; Art & Frames by Wood Gallery (936 Orange Ave.); and Emerald C Gallery (1331 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 nearly 40 years ago with tons of sand dredged from the bay. Shelter
OCEAN BEACH & POINT LOMA “O.B.” for short, this neighborhood is truly one of San Diego’s most unique. It’s an endless summer of love and sense of community in O.B., an aggregation of aging hippies, surfers, bikers, artists, musicians and other free spirits. The main drag, Newport Avenue, smells of incense and has many shops catering to the O.B. lifestyle, and also cool spots like awardwinning winery Gianni Buonomo Vintners (4836 Newport Ave.). Music junkies will love the vintage vinyl at Cow Records (5040 Newport Ave.), while Galactic Comics (4981 Newport Ave.) is
great find
RETAIL THERAPY Find a treasure trove of home furnishings, plants, flowers, gifts and more at Pigment—the Arts District at Liberty Station’s newest boutique. It’s the second locale to Pigment’s North Park flagship, owned by Chad Anglin and Amy Paul. More than a shop, it’s an experiential concept with a DIY terrarium bar, indoor/outdoor event space and community hub. 2885 Perry Road, Point Loma, 619.795.6300
(CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) BROWN CANNON III/INTERSECTION PHOTOS (X3), ©SHERRYVSMITH / DREAMSTIME.COM, MEG EVANS PHOTOGRAPHY
San Diego’s beach cities epitomize quintessential SoCal; they’re diverse, laid-back and full of charm. Coronado is known for the historical 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.
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& PACIFIC BEACH
Left to right: Surfing and Hodad’s in Ocean Beach; Pacific Beach boardwalk.
heaven for graphic-novel fans. The Corner Store (4873 Newport Ave.) is home to shabby-chic furnishings, tea sets, vintage jewelry and home/garden treasures. Just off Newport, Noon Design Shop (4993 Niagara Ave.) has handmade letterpress cards and jewelry. Wind down the day with a stroll along the Ocean Beach Pier, or romp with the pooches at Ocean Beach Dog Beach. Nearby, Point Loma is home to Liberty Public Market (2820 Historic Decatur Road); the Arts District Liberty Station (2825 Dewey Road); and the Cabrillo National Monument and Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery. The Cabrillo National Monument offers panoramic vistas stretching from San Diego to Mexico. There are also hiking trails, tidepools, a historical lighthouse, and museum exhibits about conquistador Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, the founder of San Diego.
MISSION BEACH & PACIFIC BEACH Two of San Diego’s most popular beaches, Mission Beach and Pacific Beach form an unbroken band of sand that stretches for 3 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 beach volleyball and bayside basketball games. Farther north, check out attractions at Belmont Park amusement park; the Giant Dipper, a restored 1925 wooden roller coaster; and Beach House (3125 Ocean Front Walk), where you can surf an artificial wave (currently under construction). 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 and is always popular with fishermen during the day.
/ MISSION BAY PARK
The best way to experience this area is to walk along the boardwalk, where people-watching 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 gear, swimsuits and casual wear. Begin the 10-block shopping stroll where the two main streets intersect, then head east. First order of business: Find that perfect bikini. Brazil Anna (954 Garnet Ave.) can help, with stylish swimwear and casual beachwear. For the rest of the outfit, try The Fabulous Rag Boutique (845 Garnet Ave.), a quaint shop on the main drag. Farther up Garnet Avenue is Pacific Beach Bike Shop (1815 Garnet Ave.), a neighborhood bicycle shop with rentals. Heading south brings you to Mission Beach, home to popular bikini and swimsuit emporium Gone Bananas (3785 Mission Blvd.).
Coronado Bridge views
insider tips
CORONADO MUSTS Spending a sunny day in Coronado? Be sure to visit these cool spots. Bluewater Boathouse Seafood Grill 1701 Strand Way, Coronado, 619.435.0155 Coronado Beach Ocean Boulevard, Coronado Coronado Cays Gondola Rides 503 Grand Caribe Causeway, Coronado, 619.429.6317 Coronado Ferry Landing 1201 First St., Coronado, 619.435.8895
MISSION BAY PARK Mission Bay Park is a 4,000-acre gathering spot to enjoy activities like running, biking, skating, kite-flying, sailing, stand-up paddle-boarding and boating. Several sportfishing charters depart daily from Mission Bay, and a variety of watercraft can be rented from nearby shops. The west side of the bay is also home to several resort hotels and world-renowned SeaWorld. Don’t miss the thrilling Shark Encounter and the Turtle Reef exhibition and ride.
Coronado Museum of History & Art 1100 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.7242 Hotel del Coronado 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.6611 Lamb’s Players Theatre 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.6000 Stake Chophouse 1309 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.522.0077
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HILLCREST
/ UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS & MISSION HILLS / NORTH PARK / SOUTH PARK
UPTOWN
HILLCREST The hub of Hillcrest, at the intersection of University and Fifth avenues, is always a buzzing, heavily trafficked scene throughout the day, with joggers, dog-walkers and coffeesippers crowding the sidewalks. It’s also San Diego’s official LGBT community and hosts the Pride Festival and Parade every July. Fabulous shopping begins at University and First avenues and runs 12 blocks to Park Boulevard. Find stylish travel accessories at Index Urban (3833 Fourth Ave.); art and handmade gifts at Creative Crossroads (502 University Ave.); and olive oils, vinegars, wines and more at Vom Fass (1050 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 Bluestocking Books (3817 Fifth Ave.), whose rustic shelves are
lined with many out-of-print and rare tomes. By night, the area lights up with ethnic restaurants, bars and clubs, and an art-house movie theater, the Landmark (3965 Fifth Ave.). For a unique adventure, check out Escapism Puzzle Room (3919 Fourth Ave.).
UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS & MISSION HILLS Northeast of Hillcrest on Park Boulevard lies adorably funky University Heights, home to ethnic eateries and fun shopping at places like Frock You (4121 Park Blvd.), a clothing store specializing in vintage fashion. University Heights also has an astonishing number of cafes for such a small neighborhood; we love the bohemian vibe at Twiggs Coffeehouse (4590 Park Blvd.). Presenting LGBT-themed productions, Diversionary Theatre (4545 Park Blvd.) is a local theatrical gem.
The streets of Mission Hills, northwest of Hillcrest, are lined with stately homes, quaint cafes and boutiques. Isabela (1111 Fort Stockton Drive) is an elegant skin care boutique; The Patio Express (928 Fort Stockton Drive) offers gourmet pantry items, home decor, and pet and garden products; and Maison en Provence (820 Fort Stockton Drive) is stocked with Frenchcountry home accessories. Presidio Park (619.692.4918) at the western edge of this neighborhood, is historically significant as the site of the first European settlement in California. 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 a
WFOR A MAP OF THESE NEIGHBORHOODS, SEE P. 61. FOR RESTAURANTS IN THIS AREA, SEE P. 45.
bountiful arts district, thanks in part to the restoration of the historical theater, Observatory North Park, formerly the North Park Theatre (2891 University Ave.). Gallery hops and art festivals are held often; for event details, North Park Main Street is a great resource (northparkmainstreet.com). The area is also home to dozens of independent clothing and decor boutiques. We love the organic cotton baby clothes and stylish art books sold at Pigment (3801 30th St.), while Mimi & Red (3041 University Ave.) has trendy women’s clothing and accessories. After dark, North Park comes alive with dozens of bars, hipster clubs, edgy 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 is an ideal place to shop for gifts while supporting local merchants. Favorite retailers in this area include South Park Dry Goods Co. (3010 Juniper St.), which stocks natural fiber yarns, gift items and handmade cards; Grafitti Beach (2220 Fern St.), with locally made clothing, home accents and gifts; Grant’s Marketplace (2953 Beech St.) for gourmet groceries; and South Bark Dog Wash (2037 30th St.), to pamper your canines.
(CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) JOSEPH S. GIACALONE/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, CITIZEN OF THE PLANET/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, COURTESY IMAGES (X3)
Uptown encompasses some of S.D.’s most diverse, artsy and dynamic 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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Talavera pottery at Bazaar del Mundo
insider tips
OLD TOWN STOPS As the historical heart of San Diego, Old Town was California’s first settlement, founded in 1769. Stop by these cool sites. Bazaar del Mundo 4133 Taylor St., Old Town, 619.296.3161 Cosmopolitan Hotel 2660 Calhoun St., Old Town, 619.297.1874 Cygnet Theatre 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town, 619.337.1525
Left to right: Junípero Serra Museum; Bluestocking Books in Hillcrest; Cafe Madeleine in South Park.
Heritage County Park 2454 Heritage Park Row, Old Town, 858.565.3600 Junipero Serra Museum 2727 Presidio Drive, Mission Hills, 619.232.6203 Mormon Battalion Historic Site
great find
2510 Juan St., Old Town, 619.298.3317
FRENCH INFLUENCE
Old Town San Diego Historic Park
An urban French bistro, The Smoking Goat is known for its quaint ambiance (read: candlelight and brick walls) and duck-fat truffle fries. It’s decidedly French countryside-style cuisine—French cassoulet; prosciutto, burrata and arugula salad; and mussels with local tomatoes. Don’t miss their daily happy hour from 5-6 p.m., offering rotating seasonal treats. 3408 30th St., North Park, 619.955.5295
4002 Wallace St., Old Town, 619.220.5422 Whaley House 2476 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.297.7511
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DEL MAR
/ SOLANA BEACH / ENCINITAS / CARLSBAD
NORTH COAST San Diego’s North County coastal communities have a certain charm and slower pace that must be experienced firsthand to fully appreciate. Its many quaint pockets offer the best in boutique shopping, gallery hopping and beaches.
SOLANA BEACH Solana Beach is home to some of the chicest 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 quarter-mile feature fashion, home furnishings and antiques. Most of the boutiques on South Cedros are housed in renovated Quonset huts (iron warehouses
shaped like a half-cylinder), 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 an ecoconscious cafe with preferred parking for electric and hybrid cars. This stretch of Cedros is also home to Susan Street Fine Art (200 N. Cedros Ave.), a contemporary art gallery, open by appointment only. Cross Lomas Santa Fe to explore South Cedros. We love Cedros Soles (143 S. Cedros Ave.) for footwear; HIS (also at 143 S. Cedros Ave.), a store geared toward the style-minded guy; Bixby & Ball (214 S. Cedros Ave.), with linens, home decor items and other coastal lifestyle accessories; Leaping Lotus (240 S. Cedros Ave.), a marketplace with 120 merchants; and Aaron Chang Ocean Art Gallery (415 S. Cedros Ave., #110). Stop to smile at dogs and their humans coming and going at Muttropolis (227 S. Cedros Ave.), which sells premium pet supplies. You’ll also find hip home decor and art books at Solo (309 S. Cedros Ave.), and everything for the modern garden at
Left to right: Better Buzz Coffee Roasters in Encinitas; The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch.
color-splashed Chicweed (240 S. Cedros Ave.). Nestled among the retail shops is one of the county’s top live music venues: the Belly Up (143 S. Cedros Ave.), a landmark for 40 years and counting.
ENCINITAS & CARDIFF-BY-THE-SEA Heading north on the 101 from Solana Beach, you’ll pass through the surf community of Cardiffby-the-Sea. Be sure to take a picture with the infamous “Cardiff Kook” sculpture. 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 blos-
great find
LOBSTAH LOVIN’ The popular fast-casual seafood eatery Lobster West has opened a new locale in Carlsbad (with locations in Encinitas and Coronado). Feast on its signature Maine lobster, crab and shrimp rolls; plus salads, clam chowder, lobster bisque, beer and wine. Our favorite: The Maine Feast for Two (they split all three rolls for you), with coleslaw and baked beans. 890 Palomar Airport Road, Carlsbad, lobsterwest.com
(CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) SAM WELLS, EDWIN SANTIAGO, COURTESY IMAGES (X2)
DEL MAR Del Mar’s celebrity status began more than 80 years ago, when the oceanside paradise became the 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, racing season runs from mid-July to early September (then returns for the month of November), but fun 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 has scenic fountains and sweeping ocean views, plus upscale shops, clothing boutiques and restaurants. 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 cafes and eateries. Great shopping continues east of the fairgrounds on Via de la Valle at Flower Hill Promenade (2720 Via de la Valle), where shops include trendy women’s boutique Van De Vort, men’s clothier Patrick James and Venissimo Cheese & Wine Bar. At the end of the day, head to Seagrove Park (Coast Boulevard at 15th Street) to enjoy a brilliant sunset overlooking the Pacific.
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La Jolla Zip Zoom
insider tips
INLAND STOPS For more cool cultural destinations and adventures, visit these inland North County spots. som–shaped towers, dates back to 1937. A portion of the grounds is open and 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 at Hansen’s Surf Shop (1105 S. Coast Hwy. 101). Up the road, The Lumberyard’s two dozen shops include clothier Cut Loose and modern home-and-garden store Grounded. Don’t miss DeepFling, with silver jewelry from Scandinavian designers. The Lumberyard also has an array of wine bars, eateries and cafes, many with outdoor seating (937 S. Coast Hwy. 101). In the center of downtown, the historical 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. Pacific Station is a favorite stop.
North Coast Highway 101 runs through sleepy Leucadia, where it’s easy to speed right by gems such as Lou’s Records (434 N. Coast Hwy. 101), with its selection of hip LPs and CDs; and, just off the main drag, Leucadia Cyclery (823 N. Vulcan Ave.), a quaint bicycle shop in business for more than three decades. A great cluster of shops is found at The Gold Coast (466 N. Coast Hwy. 101), whose tenants include Cielo hair salon and boutique. A short drive inland leads to San Diego Botanic Garden, showcasing 3,000 rare and exotic plants across 37 acres of gardens, trails, serene vistas, flowering trees and towering palms.
CARLSBAD Downtown Carlsbad is a picturesque seaside village. Along Carlsbad Village Drive, you’ll find Frazier’s Well (2802 Carlsbad Blvd.), where infamous sea captain John Frazier discovered mineral water back in 1882.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park 200 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs, 760.767.4205
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 Coolest Shoes in California (2984 State St.), Mulloys Fine Jewelry (2978 State St.) and Seaworthy Surf Shop (2988 State St.). A short drive east of the freeway on Palomar Airport Road leads to great outlet shopping at Carlsbad Premium Outlets; as well as unique Colonial Era artifacts at Green Dragon Museum. Continuing along Palomar Airport Road, popular attraction Legoland is 128 acres of kid-friendly entertainment that includes the Sea Life Aquarium. Nearby, the Museum of Making Music is filled with musical memorabilia. Omni La Costa Resort and Spa (2100 Costa Del Mar Road) is home to the Chopra Center for well-being. Two miles south of La Costa is The Forum Carlsbad, an outdoor, Spanishstyle shopping mall.
Bernardo Winery 13330 Paseo Del Verano Norte, Rancho Bernardo, 858.487.1866 California Center for the Arts, Escondido 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido, 760.839.4138 La Jolla Zip Zoom Ziplines 22000 CA-76, Pauma Valley, 760.742.3776 Eagle Mining Co. 2320 C St., Julian, 760.765.0036 Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve 12020 Black Mountain Road, Carmel Valley, 619.525.8213 San Diego Zoo Safari Park 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, 760.747.8702
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ARTS & CULTURE
/ SCIENCE & HISTORY / ATTRACTIONS & GARDENS / RECREATION / DINING
BALBOA PARK 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 historical 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 evokes that of an Old World town square. 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 PanamaCalifornia 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 the Explorer Pass, 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.
ARTS & CULTURE Performing arts abound in the park. A staple since 1935, The Old Globe theater presents superior theatrical talent with its world-renowned plays and musicals. Elsewhere in the park, the Marie Hitchcock Puppet Theatre presents whimsical puppet shows, while the famous Spreckels Organ Pavilion houses the world’s largest outdoor pipe organ, with more than 5,000 pipes. Free concerts are offered on 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 and 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-era works, plus a large Asian collection. The world-class Museum of Photographic Arts (MOPA) showcases compelling photography and presents films in its state-of-the-art theater. The Mingei International Museum (currently closed for renovations) 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
WFOR A MAP OF THESE NEIGHBORHOODS, SEE P. 62. FOR RESTAURANTS IN THIS AREA, SEE P. 45.
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 Fleet Science Center has interactive science exhibitions and an IMAX Giant Dome theater. 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 3D theater let visitors explore the natural world—with a focus on Southern California and Baja—via exciting interactive and educational media.
(CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) EDWIN SANTIAGO, COURTESY SAN DIEGO ZOO, JON BILOUS/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, COURTESY IMAGE, ©ARMANDO CANTO / ARCHIVE JAVIER MARÍN
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 faster metropolitan pace.
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Extraordinary Desserts’ Karen Krasne
insider tips
EAT SHEET Looking to grab a bite, a pint or cappuccino? Visit these dining and drinking outposts located in and close to the park. Albert’s Restaurant San Diego Zoo, 2920 Zoo Drive, 619.685.3200 Cucina Urbana 505 Laurel St., 619.239.2222 Extraordinary Desserts 2929 Fifth Ave., 619.294.2132 Flight Path Grill San Diego Air & Space Museum, 2001 Pan American Plaza, 619.234.8291 Left to right: Museum of Man; elephants at San Diego Zoo; Botanical Building and lily pond.
great find
MUSEUM MARVEL At the San Diego Museum of Art through March 3, Javier Marin (pictured, Grupo L 1012, 2016) comprises the Mexican artist’s provocative sculptures of the human form—using Mexican clay, wood and bronze. Also on view, Tim Shaw: Beyond Reason is the Irish sculptor’s examination of global terrorism, including a recreation of an IRA bombing at a Belfast cafe. 1450 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.7931
Lady Carolyn’s Pub The Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, 619.231.1941 Panama 66 San Diego Museum of Art, 1450 El Prado, 619.696.1966 Parc Bistro-Brasserie 2760 Fifth Ave., 619.795.1501 The Prado at Balboa Park 1549 El Prado, 619.557.9441 The Tea Pavilion Japanese Friendship Garden, 2215 Pan American Plaza, 619.231.0048
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FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY • Interactive exhibits featuring MythBusters: The Explosive Exhibition through January 6. • World's first IMAX® Dome theater showing Volcanoes: Fires of Creation and Great Barrier Reef • Kid City, just for kids 5 and under
FLEETSCIENCE.ORG
Focusing on the human experience that connects us all, the San Diego Museum of Man is a cultural anthropology museum that explores cultures around the world. 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, a Craftsman Prairiestyle 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 102-year-old San Diego Zoo, 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 all of the adorable giant pandas. 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, halfmile trip through 4 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 Spanish-style 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 striking Botanical Building is among the world’s largest lath structures; along with its gorgeous Lily Pond in front of the building, it’s one
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of the park’s most photographed, scenic and romantic sites.
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 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 delicious Latin American cuisine, refreshing salads and exotic South American cocktails—have made it a longtime local favorite. Another popular outpost, The Tea Pavilion at the Japanese Friendship Garden serves tea, noodles and sushi in a casual setting. Other park dining favorites include Cafe Mingei located in the Mingei International Museum; Flight Path Grill, an outdoor restaurant at the San Diego Air & Space Museum serving hot dogs, hamburgers, pizza and salads; and dog-friendly outdoor gastropub Panama 66, serving craft beer, cocktails and local fare at the San Diego Museum of Art.
sandiegoairandspace.org Experience California’s “Official Air & Space Museum”
in Balboa Park
Aviation & Space Exploration Come to Life in a Fun, Interactive Adventure for Heroes of all Ages! WINTER 2019 WHERE SAN DIEGO 33
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Quality Ingredients. Authentic Flavors.
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THE GUIDE WINTER 2019
DINING
Fresh Catch San Diego is home to myriad seafood restaurants, but few offer entire, wild Barents Sea red king crabs (which average 7-10 pounds and have the wingspan of a linebacker), straight from their own live tank in their kitchen—served with dining bibs and ample sides of fresh lemon and drawn butter. (It’s best shared by four to six people.) The Water Grill downtown does. The Los Angeles-originated eatery is a true mother ship for seafood lovers—with seasonal catches such as wild Alaskan halibut; daily whole fish catches; a full raw bar; shellfish platters; nearly a dozen seafood entrees; and other live tank shellfish such as wild North American hard shell lobster and wild Santa Barbara spot prawns. For starters, don’t miss the jumbo lump blue crab cake and the wild local bluefin tuna poke. There’s also Mary’s organic chicken and Prime steaks for meat lovers; plus their sinful salted-caramel bread pudding for dessert. 615 J St., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.717.6992
ns.
COURTESY WATER GRILL
*
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/ DINING AMERICAN BANKERS HILL BAR & RESTAURANT Mismatched antique chairs decorate this casual spot with an urbanindustrial vibe. A seasonal menu includes braised pork tacos, an excellent burger and their famous truffled fries. D (nightly), Br (Su). 2202 Fourth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.231.0222. $$$ Map O16 BROCKTON VILLA An 1894 cottage with a spectacular ocean view. Try the Coast Toast, a French toast soufflé from the breakfast menu. B, L, D (daily). 1235 Coast Blvd., La Jolla, 858.454.7393. $$ Map W19 BROOKLYN GIRL EATERY This trendy neighborhood joint is known for its complimentary daily popcorn and urban Brooklyn pantry vibe. Try the gnocchi and short rib entree. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 4033 Goldfinch St., Mission Hills, 619.296.4600. $$$ Map M15 CAMPFIRE The striking indoor/outdoor restaurant features campground-inspired decor, wood-fired dishes and smoky craft cocktails. L (Tu-Su), D (nightly). 2725 State St., Carlsbad, 760.637.5121. $$$ Map T22
Operation: Empanadas Find handmade-daily, baked Argentine empanadas at aptly named Empanada Kitchen. Owned and operated by Matias Rigali and Dan Housenga, the casual kitchen features beef, braised lamb, ham and cheese, and sauteed chicken empanadas; plus a variety of vegan and vegetarian empanadas. Rotating weekly specials include spicy Italian sausage with pesto; broccoli and bacon sautéed in garlic with mozzarella; kale and butternut squash; caramelized onion and mozzarella; and more. And save room for dessert; sweet empanadas include apple pie, braised banana with dulce de leche, peach cobbler and more. Dine inside, on the patio, order to go, or stop by their perch at La Jolla Open Aire Market on Sundays. 819 C St., downtown, 619.228.9419
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. $$$ Map W22
GUIDELINES
Restaurants are listed by city on page 45. Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps on pages 60-63. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.
INDEX American.........................36 Italian...............................39 Breakfast.........................37 Japanese/Pacific Rim....41 California Cuisine...........37 Mexican/Southwestern.41 French.............................38 Seafood......................... 42 International...................38 Steak............................. 44
JIMMY’S FAMOUS AMERICAN TAVERN Spicy California cheeseburgers and specialty cocktails served in a fun, casual bayside venue; outdoor patio offers great marina views. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 4990 N. Harbor Drive, Point Loma, 619.226.2103. $$ Map K9 KETTNER EXCHANGE Little Italy hotspot offers progressive American dishes such as big-eye tuna pizza and gluten-free gnocchi. Downstairs is a sumptuous space with a two-way fireplace; upstairs is a sprawling rooftop lounge. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 2001 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.255.2001. $$$ Map P15
CLAIM JUMPER Saloon-style chain offers something for everyone—from Southern-style comfort dishes such as country-fried steak and chicken pot pie; to seafood, pasta, pizza, burgers, soups and salads. B (daily at new Wyndham San Diego Bayside location only); L, D (daily); Br (Su at La Mesa location and Sa-Su at Carmel Mountain). Visit claimjumper.com for addresses and more info. $$
THE MED La Valencia’s charming, Mediterranean-villastyle eatery features locally sourced, sustainable dishes such as miso Chilean sea bass, an ocean-view terrace and live music five days a week. B, L, D (daily); Br (daily). 1132 Prospect St., La Jolla, 855.818.6887. $$ Map W19
CRAFT & COMMERCE Sip inventive craft cocktails at its taxidermy-adorned main bar or in its speakeasystyle tiki lounge, False Idol; or nosh on refined gastropub fare such as chicken-fried quail in its cozy-chic library. D (nightly), L (Sa-Su). 675 W. Beech St., Little Italy, 619.269.2202. $$$ Map P15
MISTER A’S Incredible 12th-floor views and romantic ambiance complemented by fresh, seasonal ingredients. Appetizers range from mac ‘n’ cheese to pan-seared scallops, plus an outstanding wine list. L (M–F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 2550 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.239.1377. $$$$ Map O16
CRAFTSMAN NEW AMERICAN TAVERN This stylish Encinitas watering hole serves up the Devil’s Free Range Chicken, deep-fried Brussels sprouts and Root Beer Cake. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). 267 El Camino Real, Encinitas, 760.452.2000. $$ Map V22
ONE DOOR NORTH Inspired by the great outdoors, the upscale-casual eatery houses safari-style dining tents and serves “campfire cuisine,” such as grilled street corn, smoky burgers and s’mores bars. D (nightly). 3422 30th St., North Park, 619.618.1285. $$$ Map J12
HERB & WOOD Dine on wood-fired dishes and sip oldschool cocktails inside Brian Malarkey’s sprawling warehouse-turned-chic hotspot. D (nightly), Br (Su). 2210 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.955.8495. $$$$ Map P15
SEARSUCKER At this sprawling hotspot, a bold menu ranges from a mammoth 32-ounce rib-eye to mini appetizer bites; plus craft cocktails. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 611 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.7327, Map Q16; 12995 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.369.5700. $$$ Map X22
HERRINGBONE Expect farm-to-sea American dishes with global influences, craft cocktails and 100-yearold olive trees enhancing the decor inside this refined warehouse-style space. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 7837 Herschel Ave., La Jolla, 858.459.0221. $$$ Map W19 HODAD’S Renowned burger joint with fresh toppings, huge portions, onion rings, milkshakes and microbrews on tap. Try the double bacon cheeseburger if you dare. L, D (daily). 5010 Newport Ave., Ocean Beach, 619.224.4623, Map J8; 945 Broadway, downtown, 619.234.6323. $$ Map Q17 HORNBLOWER CRUISES Celebrate a special occasion or surprise your sweetheart with a threehour dinner cruise aboard a luxury yacht along San Diego’s stunning waterfront. Enjoy a three-course meal, chilled sparkling wine and dancing. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 970 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.686.8715. $$ Map Q14
SOLACE & THE MOONLIGHT LOUNGE The second eatery and bar by chef Matt Gordon, this North County favorite serves upscale comfort food with a focus on seafood. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 25 East E St., Encinitas, 760.753.2433. $$$ Map W22 STACKED “Food well built” is the slogan at this innovative eatery where diners order their meal via an iPad at every table, allowing them to customize their own burger, sandwich, pizza, salad, mac ’n’ cheese and more. Plus, a full bar. L, D (daily). 7007 Friars Road, #356, Fashion Valley, 619.225.7900. $$ Map M16 URBAN SOLACE Neighborhood joint features updated New American comfort cuisine and an intriguing wine, craft beer and cocktail list. Locals love the warm cheese biscuits and Sunday bluegrass brunch. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 3823 30th St., North Park, 619.295.6464. $$$ Map N17
W In the mood for sushi? Try one of the county’s popular outposts for authentic and creative fare—including Nobu, Zenbu and Azuki Sushi p. 41.
COURTESY EMPANADA KITCHEN
THE GUIDE
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DINING BREAKFAST BEACH GRASS CAFE Breezy, casual-chic eatery by the beach serves up a health-conscious menu of granola, flapjacks, omelets, scrambles, salads and more. B, L, D (daily). 159 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Solana Beach, 858.509.0632. $$ Map X22 BREAKFAST REPUBLIC Breakfast-centric eatery serves fun spins on classic dishes, such as Oreo pancakes, s’mores French toast, breakfast hot dogs and turkey-meatball hash; plus breakfast cocktails and coffee drinks. B, L (daily). Locations throughout San Diego County. See website for addresses and contact info. breakfastrepublic.com. $$ CAFE 222 Locals line up in droves for Cafe 222’s quirky American cuisine and whimsical decor. 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 a quaint garden patio. All the usual dishes for breakfast; 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” including egg scrambles, hashes and more. Housed in a rustic-urban bungalow with a quaint back patio. B, L (daily); D (Tu-Su). 3628 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.298.4646. $$ Map N16 ISABEL’S CANTINA This cool, casual spot serves healthconscious, bold-flavored Latin and Asian-influenced fare. For breakfast, try the soy-chorizo scramble or blackberrybanana pancakes. B, L (daily); D (Th-Sa). 966 Felspar St., Pacific Beach, 858.272.8400. $$ Map H7 THE MISSION Acclaimed local mini-chain 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, Map I8; 2801 University Ave., North Park, 619.220.8992, Map J12; 1250 J St., East Village, 619.232.7662. $ Map Q17 RICHARD WALKER’S PANCAKE HOUSE Family owned and operated institution offers a huge selection of mouthwatering flapjacks and gourmet breakfast and lunch fare. Favorites include oven-baked omelettes and the World Famous Baked Apple Pancake. B, L (daily). 520 Front St., downtown, 619.231.7777, Map Q15; 909 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.459.8800. $ Map W19 SNOOZE, AN A.M. EATERY This bright, energetic joint features breakfast and brunch faves like eggs Benedict, pancakes, French toast, cocktails, a fun coffee menu and a breakfast pot pie. B, L (daily). 3940 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.500.3344, Map N16; 3435 Del Mar Heights Road, Del Mar, 858.703.5300, Map X22; 8861 Villa La Jolla Drive, La Jolla, 858.483.5556. $$ Map W19
CALIFORNIA CUISINE 1500 OCEAN This special-occasion spot boasts an ocean-view terrace, beach cabanas and a wine cellar. D (Tu-Sa). Hotel del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.522.8490. $$$$ Map L10 CARNITAS’ SNACK SHACK This pork-centric eatery by Hanis Cavin serves smoky meat dishes, sandwiches, carnitas tacos, cocktails and soft-serve ice cream. 2632 University Ave., North Park, 619.294.7675, Map J12; 1004 N. Harbor Drive, downtown, 619.696.7675. $$ Map Q15 THE CRACK SHACK This hip outdoor eatery serves all-day chicken and egg dishes; plus a full bar and bocce court. B, L, D (daily). 407 Encinitas Blvd., Encinitas, 760.230.2968, Map V22; 2266 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.795.3299. $$$ Map P15
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DINING
The Negroni cocktail at Barbusa in Little Italy
CUSP DINING & DRINKS Head 11 stories up at Hotel La Jolla for Mediterranean-influenced California cuisine and small plates overlooking the coastline. D (nightly), B (M-F), Br (Sa-Su). 7955 La Jolla Shores Drive, La Jolla, 858.551.3620. $$$ Map V20 FIRESIDE BY THE PATIO The sprawling indoor/ outdoor eatery focuses on wood-fired, charcoalgrilled, globally inspired cuisine. Think flatbreads, salads, smoked chicken and pork rib entrees, and a yakitori menu. Great wine list and dog-friendly patio. L, D (daily). 2855 Perry Road, Bldg. 8, Point Loma, 619.432.2100. $$ Map J9 THE FLYING PIG PUB AND KITCHEN This foodieapproved restaurant features farm-to-table cuisine focused on Cali-American dishes. Think handmade pasta, organic salads and Duroc pork belly. D (nightly). 626 S. Tremont St., Oceanside, 760.453.2940. $$$ 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 dishes. Mid-level bar is a great happy hour spot. L, D (daily). 1250 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.4244. $$$$ Map W19 GRANT GRILL Expect seasonal dishes with ingredients native to the region—jumbo diver scallops are a signature dish—while Jeff Josenhans crafts his mixology magic behind the bar, all housed inside the historical US Grant hotel. B, L, D (daily). 326 Broadway, downtown, 619.744.2077. $$$$ Map Q16 GREAT MAPLE This upscale “diner” serves comfort food and cocktails. Choose from salads, sandwiches, seafood, pasta, flatbread pizzas and maple-bacon doughnuts. B, L (M-F); D (Tu-Su); Br (Sa-Su). 1451 Washington St., Hillcrest, 619.255.2282, Map N17; 4545 La Jolla Village Drive, UTC, 858.886.7403. $$. Map T21 JRDN Hip restaurant and bar at Tower23 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. $$$ Map H7 JUNIPER & IVY Top Chef star Richard Blais oversees the modern Cali-American menu—from raw seafood, pastas and small plates, to prime strip loin and local chicken served with English pea gnocchi. D (nightly). 2228 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.269.9036. $$$ Map P15 LEROY’S KITCHEN & LOUNGE Recognized for its farm-to-table fare, Leroy’s offers seafood, meat and pasta dishes. Favorites include roasted rainbow trout and duck pot pie. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1015 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.6087. $$ Map L11 MADISON Nosh on SoCal-Med cuisine inside a sleek, cedar-walled space with vaulted ceilings; plus a trendy
bar and lounge with unique cocktails. D (Tu-Su), Br (SaSu). 4622 Park Blvd., University Heights, 619.269.6566. $$$ Map M17
It’s the only AAA Five Diamond Restaurant and Forbes Five-Star Restaurant in SoCal. D (Tu-Sa). 5200 Grand Del Mar Way, Del Mar, 858.314.1900. $$$$ Map X22
MARINE ROOM Outstanding nouveau French-infused California cuisine such as macadamia-pesto-crusted salmon and artisanal cheeses by chef Bernard Guillas in an unparalleled oceanfront location. D (nightly). 2000 Spindrift Drive, La Jolla, 858.459.7222. $$$$ Map W20
BLEU BOHEME Kensington’s charming bistro, with its candlelit rooms and old-world European ambiance, is known for its traditional French fare—including mussels, coq au vin and boeuf bourguignon. L, D (daily). 4090 Adams Ave., Kensington, 619.255.4167. $$$ Map I12
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 Meyer lemon-cream crepes. D (nightly). 3702 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.523.0007. $$$$ Map X22
BO-BEAU KITCHEN Classic French dishes (boeuf bourguignon, chicken fricasse)—along with craft cocktails and French wines—are served in a cozy and inviting bohemian atmosphere. Great spot for conversation and date nights. D (nightly). 4996 W. Point Loma Blvd., Ocean Beach, 619.224.2884, Map J8; 1027 University Ave., Hillcrest, 619.481.5033. $$$ Map N17
MISS B’S COCONUT CLUB This laid-back hangout features an open-air bar, Caribbean-inspired fare and tropical cocktails. Try the curried coconut mussels and the jerk-rubbed chicken wings. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 3704 Mission Blvd., Mission Beach, 858.381.0855. $$ Map H7 NINE-TEN Award-winning chef Jason Knibb creates evolving California cuisine from local, organic ingredients. The Jamaican jerk pork belly appetizer and the braised short rib entree are highlights. B, L, D (daily). 910 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.964.5400. $$$ Map V19 THE PATIO ON GOLDFINCH Dog-friendly neighborhood spot features a glass-encased cheese cave and two “living walls.” Seasonal menu includes salads, flatbreads, seafood and meat dishes; as well as cocktails, global wines and local craft beers. B, L (M-F); D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su). 4020 Goldfinch St., Mission Hills, 619.501.5090. $$$ Map N15 THE PATIO ON LAMONT This popular neighborhood nook features craft cocktails, beer and a global menu of small plates, salads, flatbreads and entrees with California influences. Dogs welcome outside. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 4445 Lamont St., Pacific Beach, 858.412.4648. $$ Map H8 PREP KITCHEN LITTLE ITALY Its stylish second-story locale makes for a fab alternative to the area’s Italian eateries. Daily specials include the farmers market flatbread and scallops. D (nightly), L (M-F), Br (Sa-Su). 1660 India St., Little Italy, 619.398.8383. $$$ Map P15 STARLITE Dazzling interior design and a cool back patio complements sustainably farmed food and cocktails at this hip restaurant/bar. Don’t miss the burger on brioche and the signature Starlite Mule. D (nightly). 21+. 3175 India St., Midtown, 619.358.9766. $$ Map O15 WAYPOINT PUBLIC Laid-back gastropub features 100 international beers; a custom 30-tap system focused on West Coast craft brews; and comfort dishes such as the buttermilk-fried chicken and biscuit sandwich. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 3794 30th St., North Park, 619.255.8778. $$ Map J12 WE OLIVE Olive oil tasting room also includes coastal-view wine bar featuring California wines and tastings of gourmet food items, plus specialty gifts. Great spot for happy hour, featuring discounted cheese plates and other gourmet nibbles, plus wines by the glass. L, D (daily). 1158 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.551.8250. $$ Map W19 WHISKNLADLE Chef Ryan Johnston uses local organic ingredients in dishes like roasted bone marrow and chorizo-date fritters. Trendy bar and lounge area serves up exceptional craft cocktails. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1044 Wall St., La Jolla, 858.551.7575. $$$ Map W19
FRENCH ADDISON Executive Chef William Bradley creates delectable, elegant dishes from local ingredients at this ultra-fine-dining restaurant at Fairmont Grand Del Mar.
THE FRENCH GOURMET This quaint restaurant, bakery and wine shop serves California-influenced French cuisine. Entrees include duck confit, rack of lamb and vegetarian ratatouille. Visit the bakery for to-go sandwiches, cheese, charcuterie and desserts. B, L (daily); D (Tu-Sa). 960 Turquoise St., Pacific Beach, 858.488.1725. $$ Map H8 MILLE FLEURS This romantic, fine-dining restaurant is a classic date spot. 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. $$$$ Map W23 PAMPLEMOUSSE GRILLE Chef Jeffrey Strauss presents a country-French–influenced American menu in a quirky, casually elegant setting near the racetrack. Don’t miss the basil-roasted sea bass with sauteed rock shrimp and a polenta cake. L (F), D (nightly). 514 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.792.9090. $$$$ Map W22 THE SMOKING GOAT This cozy neighborhood bistro serves up French and American cuisine with a countryside flair. Expect such dishes as the Berkshire pork chop, steak frites and its famous duck fat truffle fries. D (Tu-Su). 3408 30th St., North Park, 619.955.5295. $$$ Map J12
INTERNATIONAL CAFE SEVILLA A celebrated staple of the Gaslamp, Cafe Sevilla still serves up the same Spanish tapas, seafood specialties, and flamenco and salsa lessons that have made it a longtime locals’ favorite. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 353 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.5979. $$$ Map R16 LOTUS THAI Elegant bamboo decor and modern Thai cuisine, with authentic dishes from Bangkok, Chiang Mai and northern Thailand. Specialties include Choo Chee pork chops and roasted half-duck curry. L (M-F), D (nightly). 3761 Sixth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.299.8272, Map N16; 906 Market St., East Village, 619.595.0115. $$ Map Q17 THE PRADO Its dramatic garden patio is lovely, and the eclectic American menu is spiked with Latin/Italian flair. Try the lobster bucatini and the chicken and gnocchi dumplings with bacon. L (daily), D (Tu-Su). 1549 El Prado, House of Hospitality, Balboa Park, 619.557.9441. $$$ Map O17 Q’ERO RESTAURANT A cozy Peruvian restaurant featuring regional classics such as lomo saltado and the signature beverage, chicha morada, made from purple corn. L, D (W-Sa). 564 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.753.9050. $$ Map V22 QUEENSTOWN PUBLIC HOUSE Salads, burgers and fish ‘n’ chips rule the menu at this New Zealand-inspired eatery, featuring a charming dining porch and dog-friendly dining lawn and patio. Weekend brunch includes chicken ’n’ waffles. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1557 Columbia St., Little Italy, 619.546.0444. $$ Map P15 REI DO GADO Brazilian-style steakhouse serves succulent mesquite-cooked beef and pork, brought
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PRIME AGED
tableside on skewers until you tell them to stop. L, D (daily). 939 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.702.8464. $$$ Map Q16 SOLTAN BANOO Eclectic, casual Persian restaurant featuring authentic lamb, beef, vegetarian and curry dishes with fragrant basmati rice; plus kebabs. L, D (daily). 4645 Park Blvd., University Heights, 619.298.2801. $$ Map M18
TO PERFECTION
TAPAS & BEERS Relaxed, casual space features a Mediterranean-inspired menu of small plates ideal for sharing— cured meats, crostini, hummus—plus flatbreads, sandwiches, salads and paella. To drink, enjoy a glass of wine or local craft beer. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 926 Broadway Circle, downtown, 619.564.7255. $$ Map Q16
ITALIAN ALEXANDER’S Romantic neighborhood eatery known for its darling back patio, white-on-white decor, 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
San Diego | 285 J Street | 619.696.3369 Mortons.com
BARBUSA The stylishly modern trattoria is owned by the Busalacchi family. Feast on updated Sicilian classics such as stuffed risotto balls, pastas, pizzas, seasonal cocktails and Nutella-banana tiramisu for dessert. L, D (daily). 1917 India St., Little Italy, 619.238.1917. $$$ Map P15 BENCOTTO This mod spot in the Q building earns raves for simple but well-executed create-your-own pasta dishes and other Italian specialities. L, D (Tu-Su). 750 W. Fir St., Little Italy, 619.450.4786. $$$ Map P15 BUONA FORCHETTA The wood-fired oven named “Sofia” takes center stage at this cozy corner eatery known for its traditional Neapolitan pizza, house-made pastas and tiramisu. Don’t miss the “pasta of the day” special. L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 3001 Beech St., South Park, 619.381.4844. $$ Map K12 BUON APPETITO Sample rustic Italian cuisine made from scratch—ranging from pasta dishes to grilled swordfish—inside this intimate trattoria or on its bustling sidewalk patio. L, D (daily). 1609 India St., Little Italy, 619.238.9880. $$$ Map P15 CATANIA COASTAL ITALIAN Enjoy authentic coastal Italian fare and 180-degree ocean views. The menu features salads, small plates, wood-fired pizzas, pastas and entrees like whole-roasted branzino. Save room for the semifreddo for dessert. L, D (daily). 7863 Girard Ave., #301, La Jolla, 858.551.5105. $$$ Map W19 CIVICO 1845 Contemporary Italian bistro features a warm decor clad with reclaimed wood, a patio, handmade pastas and traditional entrees; plus a separate all-vegan menu. L, D (daily). 1845 India St., Little Italy, 619.431.5990. $$ Map P15 CUCINA ENOTECA Located at Flower Hill Promenade, the stylish eatery features a rooftop patio and a Cali-Italian menu with antipasti, salads, pastas and artisanal pizzas; plus a retail wine shop. L (Tu-Su), D (nightly). 2730 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.704.4500. $$$ Map X22 CUCINA URBANA Crowded, chic hotspot features house-made pastas, pizzas, farm-to-table dishes, houseinfused cocktails and wine shop. L (Tu-F), D (nightly). 505 Laurel St., Bankers Hill, 619.239.2222. $$$ 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. $$$ Map X22
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DINING ISOLA PIZZA BAR Casually elegant restaurant and bar featuring a romantic back patio, sidewalk patio and handtossed pizzas baked in a stone wood-burning oven; plus pastas, antipasti and boutique wines. L, D (Tu-Su). 1526 India St., Little Italy, 619.255.4230, Map P15; 7734 Girard Ave., La Jolla, 858.412.5566. $$$ Map W19 JACK & GIULIO’S Known for its scampi, spaghetti and meatballs, and other traditional dishes, this Old Town Italian spot is a locals’ favorite. Excellent wines for pairing. D (nightly). 2391 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.294.2074. $$$ Map N14 MARETALIA Modern coastal Italian menu offers fresh, local seafood, housemade pasta, filet mignon and shareable plates such as lobster-stuffed squash blossoms and fig and goat cheese bruschetta. Daily happy hour 4-6:30. D (daily). 1300 Orange Ave., #200, Coronado, 619.522.0946. $$$ Map L10 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. $$$ Map P15 OFFICINE BUONA FORCHETTA Sister location of the popular South Park neighborhood restaurant serves up its famous wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas, calzones, salads and house-made pastas. Family-friendly outdoor patio features a playground for kids. L, D (daily). 2865 Sims Road, Point Loma, 619.548.5770. $$ Map J9 OLD VENICE Local favorite boasts candlelit atmosphere and romantic courtyard, white-on-white decor and Italian cuisine with Mediterranean flavors. Enjoy dishes like the spicy Roma shrimp and chicken picatta. L (M–Sa), D (nightly). 2910 Canon St., Point Loma, 619.222.5888. $$$ Map K8 OSTERIA PANEVINO This casual, Tuscan-inspired eatery conjures the sights, sounds and smells of the Old World right in the heart of the Gaslamp, and features rustic, farmhouse ambiance, a lengthy wine list and house-made bread and pastas. B, L, D (daily). 722 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.595.7959. $$ Map Q16 PIATTI Delicious pastas, pizza made from a stone-hearth oven and other Italian faves near the ocean in La Jolla Shores. L, D (daily); Br (Sa–Su). 2182 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, 858.454.1589. $$$ Map V20 TRATTORIA I TRULLI Superb pasta and sauces in a rustic setting featuring more than 100 wines. The creme brulee shouldn’t be missed. L, D (daily). 830 S. Coast Hwy. 101, #100, Encinitas, 760.943.6800. $$ Map V22 VIGILUCCI’S CUCINA ITALIANA Bustling Italian bistro nestled in the heart of Carlsbad Village serves everything from pasta to veal to seafood; plus an outdoor patio. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 2943 State St., Carlsbad, 760.434.2500. $$$ Map T22 VIGILUCCI’S GOURMET MARKET & CATERING One part cafe and one part gourmet Italian market, this charming nook offers boutique wines, salami, cheeses, customized antipasti trays, hot and cold panini, homemade lasagna and daily lunch specials. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. 2943 State St., #102, Carlsbad, 760.720.0188. $$ Map T22 VIGILUCCI’S TRATTORIA ITALIANA This quaint Italian eatery is known for its homemade pasta dishes, prime steaks, fresh seafood and pizza—featuring an authentic Florentine wood-burning brick oven. L, D (daily). 530 N. Coast Hwy. 101, Leucadia, 760.634.2365. $$$ Map V2
Lotus Thai
welcomes discerning diners with an unpretentious vibe and sophisticated, authentic exotic Thai cuisine. Emerge award winning recipes from Chiang Mai, Bangkok and Northern Thailand.
Happy Hour 7 days a week with extensive beer, wine, SOJU cocktails and Sake selections. Established and recognized as San Diego’s Best Thai restaurant for several years.
VIVACE Marvelous Northern Italian cuisine with a California twist made fresh using organic ingredients at this gorgeous restaurant at the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort. D (M-Sa), Br (Su). 7100 Four Seasons Point, Carlsbad, 760.603.6999. $$$$ Map U22
RESERVE NOW
LOTUSTHAISD.COM 2 prime locations
DOWNTOWN 906 Market St. 92101 HILLCREST 3761 6th Ave. 92103
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voteD best seafood built in 1887 next to the hotel del coronado
DINING JAPANESE/PACIFIC RIM AZUKI SUSHI Seemingly a hole in the wall from the street view, but inside lies a charming eatery and sushi bar with an airy back patio. Excellent, expertly prepared sushi and specialty rolls. L (M-F), D (nightly). 2321 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.238.4760. $$$ Map O16 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. $$$ Map K9 BLUE OCEAN ROBATA & SUSHI BAR Modern design meets Japanese cuisine. Yakitori-skewered proteins and veggies are charcoal-fired on a robata grill; plus sushi and Japanese whiskey. L (M-Sa), D (nightly). 2958 Madison St., Carlsbad, 760.434.4959. $$$ Map T22 HARNEY SUSHI Find award-winning sushi and specialty rolls with a molecular gastronomy twist at this groovy local mini-chain, 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. $$ Map S22
Classic and Contemporary Sustainable Seafood · Lunch · Dinner · Brunch Happy Hour · Kids Menu · Full Bar · Patio · Pet Friendly · Ample Free Parking come in, get hookeD bluewatergrill.com
1701 strand way tel 619 435 0155
visit our other locations carlsbad and temecula
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NOBU The hotspot at Hard Rock Hotel by the renowned Nobu Matsuhisa serves authentic sushi, the chef’s famous jalapeño-yellowtail sashimi and excellent miso black cod. D (nightly). 207 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.814.4124. $$$$ Map Q16 ROY’S High-end chain serves chef Roy Yamaguchi’s Hawaiian-fusion fare—including steak, seafood and sushi—in a contemporary setting. L, D (daily). 8670 Genesee Ave., La Jolla, 858.455.1616, Map T21; Marriott Hotel, 333 W. Harbor Drive, Marina District, 619.239.7697. $$$ Map Q15 ZENBU Innovative sushi rolls and sashimi crafted from line-caught fish brought in by the owner’s personal fleet of fishing boats. D (nightly). 2003 San Elijo Ave., Cardiff-bythe-Sea, 760.633.2223. $$$ Map W22
MEXICAN/SOUTHWESTERN BARRIO STAR Trendy eatery serves up healthful Latin American-influenced dishes, including tacos, bowls, tortilla soup and chipotle chicken wings. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 2706 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.501.7827. $$ Map O16 CAFE COYOTE 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. $$ Map M14 CASA GUADALAJARA Bazaar del Mundo’s awardwinning Mexican restaurant and cantina features a colorful outdoor patio, live mariachi music and some of the best enchiladas and flautas in town. L, D (daily). 4105 Taylor St., Old Town, 619.295.5111. $$ Map M13
TOP 10 BEST FAMILY RESTAURANTS IN THE U.S. AND BEST AMERICAN CUISINE
SAN DIEGO BAYSIDE
Located adjacent to the Wyndham Bayside 1355 North Harbor Drive (opens at 6am) I 619.531.7994 I WiFi
We have one of the largest outside patios on the bayfront in San Diego for dining and cocktails
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5500 Grossmont Center Drive (619) 469-3927 Sunday Brunch
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12384 Carmel Mtn. Road (858) 485-8370
Now serving Breakfast Saturday and Sunday!
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COASTERRA The stars are its massive waterfront dining deck and regional Mexican cuisine. Bar offers more than 100 tequilas and a dozen mezcal infusions. L, D (daily). 880 Harbor Island Drive, Harbor Island, 619.814.1300. $$$ Map J10 EN FUEGO Lively restaurant and bar with traditional dishes such as empanadas, tamales and seafood; plus mojitos and margaritas. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1342 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.6551. $$ Map X22 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., Coronado, 619.437.4237, Map L10; 2444 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.298.9840. $$ Map N13
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DINING OLD TOWN MEXICAN CAFE This Old Town staple is famous for its handmade tortillas, which you can see being made fresh daily through the restaurant’s front window. A festive atmosphere and traditional Mexican dishes await inside. B, L, D (daily). 2489 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.297.4330. $ Map N13 PUEBLO Just two blocks from the ocean, this upscale restaurant and bar features a rooftop deck, modern Mexican cuisine focusing on Baja-style dishes and seafood, cocktails and wine. Menu changes often to include only the freshest catches and seasonal, local produce. L, D (daily), Br (Sa-Su). 877 Hornblend St., Pacific Beach, 858.412.3312. $$$ Map H8 PUESTO The organic, taco-laden menu boasts potato soy chorizo tacos and lobster tacos with black beans and crispy onions. Plus specialty cocktails, beer, wine and an array of high-end tequilas and mezcals. L, D (daily). 789 W. Harbor Drive, #155, downtown, 619.233.8880, Map K11; 1026 Wall St., La Jolla, 858.454.1260. $$ Map W19 RED O RESTAURANT Fronted by by celeb chef Rick Bayless, this upscale Mexican bistro and tequila lounge features gourmet, modern twists on traditional Cali-Mex fare, plus a generous patio and extensive spirits list. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 4340 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla, 858.291.8360. $$$ Map T21 SALUD! Cult-followed casual eatery offers elevated tacos, craft beer, a salsa bar, and churros with ice cream for dessert. Weekly specials include ceviche tostadas on Wednesdays and homemade empanadas on Thursdays. B, L, D (daily). 2196 Logan Ave., Barrio Logan, 619.255.3856. $$ Map R17
SEAFOOD BLUE POINT COASTAL CUISINE Enjoy Cali-style seafood and fresh oysters, as well as blue crab and white truffle mac ‘n’ cheese. Hip martini bar with plenty of specialty cocktails and decadent desserts, too. D (nightly). 565 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.6623. $$$$ Map Q16 BLUEWATER BOATHOUSE SEAFOOD GRILL This classic fish house features fresh, sustainable seafood, house-made chowders and an oyster bar. (Coronado location sits over the water in the historical former boathouse of the Hotel del Coronado.) L, D (daily). 1701 Strand Way, Coronado, 619.435.0155, Map L10; 417 Carlsbad Village Drive, Carlsbad, 760.730.3474. $$ Map T22
Fresh Seafood. Flown in Daily. The Ultra-fresh Seafood Experience.™
THE BRIGANTINE Popular chain with a rollicking happy hour, steaks and chops is known for its fish tacos, swordfish and oyster bars. 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. $$ Map L10 DUKE’S LA JOLLA The Hawaii-based chain is known for its seasonal, fresh fish and seafood, choice steaks, tropical cocktails and vibrant atmosphere. Save room for Kimo’s Hula Pie. L, D (daily); B (Sa-Su). 1216 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.5888. $$$ Map W19 EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD Find classics like shrimp cocktail and lobster bisque; plus 28-day-aged prime steaks. La Jolla locale boasts views of the cove, and both locations present live jazz nightly in the lounge. D (nightly), L (F-Su La Jolla only). 1270 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.459.5500, Map W19; 789 W. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.615.0281. $$$$ Map Q15 THE FISH MARKET/TOP OF THE MARKET Casual dining includes fresh local seafood, sushi, an oyster bar and San Diego Bay views at the downtown location. Upstairs: fine dining and expanded wine list. L, D (daily). 750 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.232.3474, Map Q15; 640 Via de la Valle, Solana Beach, 858.755.2277. $$ Map W22
GASLAMP DISTRICT 400 J Street | 619.858.2277 | theoceanaire.com
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DINING HUMPHREYS RESTAURANT Yacht-club views with bayside seafood by chef Nicolas Bour, such as sauteed Georges bank scallops and pepper-crusted king salmon. Sunday brunch is spectacular, with carving stations and free-flowing bubbly. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). 2241 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.224.3577. $$$ Map K8 IRONSIDE FISH & OYSTER Dine on seafood-focused plates, such as lobster rolls, daily fresh catches and fried oyster sliders, and sip on custom cocktails at this happenin’ bar and restaurant. Raw bar stays open till midnight (till 2 a.m. F-Sa). L, D (daily). 1654 India St., Little Italy, 619.269.3033. $$$ Map P15 ISLAND PRIME Seafood, steak, salads, cocktails and dreamy views of the skyline. Adjacent C Level Lounge on the spacious deck is popular with the after-work crowd. L (daily at C Level only), D (nightly). 880 Harbor Island Drive, Harbor Island, 619.298.6802. $$$ Map J10 LIONFISH Hotspot inside The Pendry hotel features modern coastal cuisine, from elevated sea fare—big-eye tuna pizza, specialty sushi rolls, daily fresh catches and a full raw bar—to carnivore-friendly options like duck confit tostadas. To drink, enjoy sake, wines by the glass and specialty cocktails. D (nightly). 8435 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.738.7200. $$$ Map Q16 LOBSTER WEST This quaint, fast-casual eatery serves fresh Maine lobster rolls, crab rolls, shrimp rolls, lobster bisque, New England clam chowder, organic salads and more. Beer and wine to drink. L, D (daily). 1033 B Ave., #102, Coronado, 619.675.0002, Map L10; 765 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.634.1684, Map V22; 890 Palomar Airport Road, Carlsbad, lobsterwest.com. $$ Map U22
Dog Friendly
MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S Stylish seafood chain is located in the Omni Hotel. Fresh catches include some local selections such as swordfish and albacore from nearby Catalina Island. B, L, D (daily). 675 L St., downtown, 619.645.6545. $$$ Map Q16 THE OCEANAIRE SEAFOOD ROOM Retro oceanliner design features a bustling cocktail scene with oyster bar. (Try a dirty vodka martini with a selection of oysters on the half shell.) Market-fresh seafood and regionally inspired dishes star on the daily-changing menu. D (nightly). 400 J St., Gaslamp, 619.858.2277. $$$ Map Q16 OSETRA Indulge in caviar, vodka and oysters at this progressive eatery, whose interior is defined by a three-story wine tower. Prime-aged meats are also on the menu. D (nightly). 904 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.239.1800. $$$ Map Q16
Weekend Brunch
10am -2:30pm w/ NFL sunday ticket
Happy Hour
3pm-5pm for food...3pm-6pm for drinks
PACIFIC COAST GRILL Plopped literally right on the beach, Pacific Coast Grill epitomizes casual-chic coastal dining. Locals love the lobster tacos and fresh seafood entrees, and the view is the stuff of California dreams. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 2526 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Cardiff-by-theSea, 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 decor with spectacular water views looking back at the San Diego skyline; plus Pacific Rim plates like crispy wok-fried whole bass and fire shrimp. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 1201 First St., Coronado, 619.437.4474. $$$ Map K10
1959 Morena Blvd, Bay Park, San Diego www.sandiegoluce.com
POSEIDON RESTAURANT Its beachfront deck offers unrivaled views. Dinner entrees such as lemon peppercrusted diver scallops, pan-seared Chilean sea bass and wasabi-sesame-crusted yellowfin tuna make up the contemporary seafood-focused menu. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1670 Coast Blvd., Del Mar, 858.755.9345. $$$ Map X22
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DINING SALLY’S FISH HOUSE & BAR This marina-facing venue at the Manchester Grand Hyatt boasts a seafood-heavy menu that includes fresh creations such as diver scallops and crab cakes. L, D (daily). 1 Market Place, Embarcadero, 619.358.6740. $$$ Map Q1 WATER GRILL Nautical-inspired fine dining spot serves fresh seafood, and features a raw bar with more than 15 types of oysters. Extensive menu includes chilled shellfish platters and whole fish like Wild Brittany Dover Sole. L, D (daily). 615 J St., Gaslamp, 619.717.6992. $$$ Map Q16
We Call it San Diego Perfection Sunset Dinner, Champagne Brunch, Harbor Cruises, Seasonal Whale Watching, Sights & Sips and Rock The Yacht! Cocktail Cruises, Private Events, Weddings & Receptions
STEAK BORN & RAISED This stunning, fine dining steakhouse is all about the beef. Feast on filets, porterhouses, ribeyes, dry-aged cuts, American and Japanese wagyu and slow-roasted Prime rib, as well as roasted chicken and a daily whole fish preparation. Plus: classic cocktails and 300-plus bottles of scotch. D (nightly). 1909 India St., Little Italy, 619.202.4577. $$$$ Map P15 COWBOY STAR With barstools upholstered in cowhide, this stylish downtown steakhouse is decked out in Old West adornments. Don’t miss the buttermilk-fried sweetbreads, excellent meat selections and well-crafted cocktails. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Su). 640 10th Ave., East Village, 619.450.5880. $$$ 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 in a sophisticated atmosphere. D (nightly; M-Sa at La Jolla). 1250 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.450.6666, Map T21; 570 K St., Gaslamp, 619.237.9700. $$$ Map R16 FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR Upscale steakhouse with prime steaks, seafood, hearty side dishes, classic desserts and an acclaimed wine list. Elegant ambiance. D (nightly). 8970 University Center Lane, La Jolla, 858.535.0078, Map T21; 380 K St., Gaslamp, 619.237.1155. $$$$ Map Q16
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HORNBLOWER.COM/WHERESD | 855-400-0754 SAN DIEGO NEWPORT BEACH LONG BEACH MARINA DEL REY SAN FRANCISCO BERKELEY NEW YORK *Valid for up to six adult bookings. Not valid on holidays, special events or in combination with any other offer. Valid for new bookings only. Mention coupon at time of booking and present upon check-in. Expires 3/31/19.
GREYSTONE PRIME STEAKHOUSE Prime steaks, seafood and pastas in a great downtown location. Beefy menu includes A5 Japanese wagyu, tableside filet tartare and much more. D (nightly). 658 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.232.0225. $$$ Map Q16 MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE USDA prime-aged beef, seafood, an excellent wine list, cocktails, decadent desserts, crisp white linens and great service at the edge of the historical Gaslamp Quarter. D (nightly). 285 J St., downtown, 619.696.3369. $$$$ Map Q16 STAKE CHOPHOUSE & BAR Contemporary steakhouse with a luxe vibe features a wide variety of steaks— including wagyu and Kobe—as well as seafood; plus a 2,000-bottle wine cellar. D (nightly). 1309 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.522.0077. $$$ Map L10 STK SAN DIEGO The modern steakhouse and chic lounge offers premium cuts of USDA beef, from a 6-ounce filet to a 128-ounce dry-aged tomahawk. Plus, seafood and sides such as sweet corn pudding. D (nightly); Br (SaSu). 600 F St., Gaslamp, 619.354.5988 $$$$ Map Q16 VIGILUCCI’S SEAFOOD & STEAKHOUSE Italianinfluenced chophouse with beach views features steaks, chicken, veal, fresh catches, salads and fresh pastas such as the classic capellini checca. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 3878 Carlsbad Blvd., Carlsbad, 760.434.2580. $$$ Map T22
where? LOG ON ANYWHERE. SOCALPULSE.COM 44 SOCALPULSE.COM WINTER 2019
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RESTAURANTS CITY INDEX OUR SUPERGUIDE BY AREA, WITH CROSS REFERENCE TO LISTINGS BY CUISINE
GASLAMP QUARTER BLUE POINT (Seafood)............................................................................ 42 CAFE SEVILLA (International)............................................................... 38 DONOVAN’S (Steak)............................................................................... 44 FLEMING’S (Steak).................................................................................... 44 GREYSTONE (Steak)................................................................................ 44 LIONFISH (Seafood)................................................................................... 43 MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S (Seafood) ...................................... 43 NOBU (Japanese)......................................................................................... 41 THE OCEANAIRE (Seafood)................................................................. 43 OSETRA (Seafood)...................................................................................... 43 OSTERIA PANEVINO (Italian)............................................................ 40 REI DO GADO (International)............................................................... 38 SEARSUCKER (American)....................................................................... 36 STK SAN DIEGO (Steak)....................................................................... 44 WATER GRILL (Seafood)......................................................................... 44
DOWNTOWN/EAST VILLAGE/EMBARCADERO CAFE 222 (Breakfast)............................................................... 37 CARNITAS’ SNACK SHACK (California Cuisine)............... 37 COWBOY STAR (Steak)........................................................... 44 EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD (Seafood)............................. 42 THE FISH MARKET (Seafood) ............................................... 42 GRANT GRILL (California Cuisine)........................................................ 38 HODAD’S (American)................................................................................ 36 HORNBLOWER CRUISES (American)............................................ 36 LOTUS THAI (International).................................................................... 38
EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD (Seafood)...................................... 42 FLEMING’S (Steak).................................................................................... 44 GEORGE’S AT THE COVE (California Cuisine)............................ 38 GREAT MAPLE (California Cuisine)...................................................... 38 HERRINGBONE (American).................................................................. 36 ISOLA PIZZA BAR (Italian)................................................................... 40 MARINE ROOM (California Cuisine)................................................... 38 THE MED (American)................................................................................ 36 NINE-TEN (California Cuisine)................................................................. 38 PIATTI (Italian)............................................................................................... 40 PUESTO (Mexican/Southwestern).......................................................... 42 RED O RESTAURANT (Mexican/Southwestern)............................ 42 RICHARD WALKER’S PANCAKE HOUSE (Breakfast)......... 37 ROY’S (Japanese/Pacific Rim)................................................................... 41 SNOOZE (Breakfast).................................................................................. 37 WHISKNLADLE (California Cuisine)..................................................... 38 WE OLIVE (California Cuisine)................................................................. 38
NORTH COASTAL BEACH GRASS CAFE (Breakfast)..................................................... 37 BLUE OCEAN ROBATA & SUSHI BAR (Japanese)................ 41 BLUEWATER BOATHOUSE (Seafood)........................................... 42 BREAKFAST REPUBLIC (Breakfast)................................................. 37 CAMPFIRE (American).............................................................................. 36 CHART HOUSE (American)................................................................... 36 THE CRACK SHACK (California Cuisine).......................................... 37 CRAFTSMAN TAVERN (American)................................................... 36 THE FISH MARKET (Seafood)............................................................. 42 THE FLYING PIG (California Cuisine).................................................. 38 HARNEY SUSHI (Japanese)................................................................... 41 LOBSTER WEST (Seafood).................................................................... 43 PACIFIC COAST GRILL (Seafood)..................................................... 43 PAMPLEMOUSSE GRILLE (French)................................................. 38 Q’ERO RESTAURANT (International)............................................... 38 SOLACE (American)................................................................................... 36
MISSION BAY/BEACHES
TRATTORIA I TRULLI (Italian)............................................................. 40
BO-BEAU (French)...................................................................................... 38
VIGILUCCI’S SEAFOOD & STEAKHOUSE (Steak).............. 44
THE FRENCH GOURMET (French)................................................. 38
VIGILUCCI’S CUCINA ITALIANA (Italian).................................. 40
HODAD’S (American)................................................................................ 36
VIGILUCCI’S GOURMET MARKET & CATERING (Italian).. 40
ISABEL’S CANTINA (Breakfast)........................................................... 37
VIGILUCCI’S TRATTORIA ITALIANA (Italian)........................... 40
JRDN (California Cuisine)............................................................................ 38
VIVACE (Italian)........................................................................................... 40
MISS B’S COCONUT CLUB (California Cuisine).......................... 38
ZENBU (Japanese)....................................................................................... 41
THE MISSION (Breakfast)....................................................................... 37
UPTOWN
THE PATIO ON LAMONT (California Cuisine).............................. 38 PUEBLO (Mexican)..................................................................................... 42
ALEXANDER’S (Italian) ......................................................................... 39 ARRIVEDERCI (Italian)............................................................................ 39
THE MISSION (Breakfast)....................................................................... 37
HARBOR /SHELTER/POINT LOMA
MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE (Steak)................................... 44
BALI HAI (Japanese/Pacific Rim)............................................................. 41
BANKERS HILL (American).................................................................... 36
PUESTO (Mexican/Southwestern).......................................................... 42
BREAKFAST REPUBLIC (Breakfast)................................................. 37
BLEU BOHEME (French) ....................................................................... 38
RICHARD WALKER’S PANCAKE HOUSE (Breakfast)......... 37
THE BRIGANTINE (Seafood)................................................................ 42
BO-BEAU (French)...................................................................................... 38
ROY’S (Japanese/Pacific Rim)................................................................... 41
COASTERRA (Mexican)........................................................................... 41
BREAKFAST REPUBLIC (Breakfast)................................................. 37
SALLY’S (Seafood)....................................................................................... 44
FIRESIDE BY THE PATIO (California Cuisine)................................ 38
BROOKLYN GIRL (American)............................................................... 36
SALUD! (Mexican)....................................................................................... 42
HUMPHREYS RESTAURANT (Seafood)........................................ 43
BUONA FORCHETTA (Italian)........................................................... 39
TAPAS & BEERS (International)............................................................ 39
ISLAND PRIME (Seafood)....................................................................... 43
CARNITAS’ SNACK SHACK (California Cuisine)......................... 37
TOP OF THE MARKET (Seafood)..................................................... 42
JIMMY’S TAVERN (American)............................................................. 36
CUCINA URBANA (Italian).................................................................. 39
LITTLE ITALY
MIGUEL’S COCINA (Mexican/Southwestern).................................. 41
GREAT MAPLE (California Cuisine)...................................................... 38
OFFICINE BUONA FORCHETTA (Italian).................................. 40
HASH HOUSE A GO GO (Breakfast)............................................. 37
OLD VENICE (Italian)............................................................................... 40
LOTUS THAI (International).................................................................... 38
BORN & RAISED (Steak)....................................................................... 44
CORONADO
MADISON (California Cuisine)................................................................ 38
BUON APPETITO (Italian).................................................................... 39
1500 OCEAN (California Cuisine)......................................................... 37
CIVICO 1845 (Italian).............................................................................. 39
BLUEWATER BOATHOUSE (Seafood)........................................... 42
CRAFT & COMMERCE (American).................................................. 36
THE BRIGANTINE (Seafood)................................................................ 42
THE CRACK SHACK (California Cuisine).......................................... 37
LEROY’S KITCHEN (California Cuisine)............................................. 38
DAVANTI ENOTECA (Italian)............................................................. 39
LOBSTER WEST (Seafood).................................................................... 43
HERB & WOOD (American).................................................................. 36
MARETALIA (Italian)................................................................................. 40
IRONSIDE FISH & OYSTER (Seafood)........................................... 43
MIGUEL’S COCINA (Mexican/Southwestern).................................. 41
ISOLA PIZZA BAR (Italian)................................................................... 40
STAKE CHOPHOUSE (Steak)............................................................. 44
JUNIPER & IVY (California Cuisine)..................................................... 38
DEL MAR/RANCHO SANTA FE
URBAN SOLACE (American)................................................................ 36
ADDISON (French)..................................................................................... 38
WAYPOINT PUBLIC (California Cuisine)........................................... 38
THE BRIGANTINE (Seafood)................................................................ 42
OLD TOWN
BARBUSA (Italian)...................................................................................... 39 BENCOTTO (Italian)................................................................................. 39
KETTNER EXCHANGE (American).................................................. 36 MONELLO (Italian) ................................................................................... 40 PREPKITCHEN (California Cuisine)....................................................... 38 QUEENSTOWN PUBLIC HOUSE (International)...................... 38
LA JOLLA
CUCINA ENOTECA (Italian)................................................................ 39 DAVANTI ENOTECA (Italian)............................................................. 39 EN FUEGO (Mexican/Southwestern).................................................... 41
AZUKI SUSHI (Japanese) . ...................................................................... 41
THE MISSION (Breakfast)....................................................................... 37 MISTER A’S (American)............................................................................ 36 ONE DOOR NORTH (American)....................................................... 36 THE PATIO ON GOLDFINCH (California Cuisine)...................... 38 THE PRADO (International).................................................................... 38 THE SMOKING GOAT (French) . ...................................................... 38 SNOOZE (Breakfast).................................................................................. 37 SOLTAN BANOO (International) ........................................................ 39 STARLITE (California Cuisine) .................................................................. 38
CAFE COYOTE (Mexican/Southwestern).......................................... 41 CASA GUADALAJARA (Mexican/Southwestern)......................... 41 HARNEY SUSHI (Japanese)................................................................... 41
BROCKTON VILLA (American)........................................................... 36
MARKET (California Cuisine).................................................................... 38
CATANIA COASTAL ITALIAN (Italian).......................................... 39
MILLE FLEURS (French).......................................................................... 38
THE COTTAGE (Breakfast).................................................................... 37
PACIFICA DEL MAR (Seafood)........................................................... 43
CUSP (California Cuisine) ........................................................................... 38
POSEIDON (Seafood)............................................................................... 43
DONOVAN’S (Steak)............................................................................... 44
SEARSUCKER (American)....................................................................... 36
MISSION VALLEY/KEARNY MESA
DUKE’S LA JOLLA (Seafood).............................................................. 42
SNOOZE (Breakfast).................................................................................. 37
STACKED (American)................................................................................ 36
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JACK & GIULIO’S (Italian).................................................................... 40 MIGUEL’S COCINA (Mexican)............................................................. 41 OLD TOWN MEXICAN CAFE (Mexican)..................................... 42
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SDDINING WE OLIVE AND WINE BAR We Olive & Wine Bar is a culinary and wine destination overlooking La Jolla Cove–a unique combination of upscale retail, wine bar and tasting experience. It features olive oil tasting and education; artisanal foods for sampling; gourmet gifts; wine tasting; and a delicious menu designed to pair with small-production wines—featuring extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars. The retail store features a gorgeous olive oil tasting bar where guests are treated daily to complimentary olive oil tasting and education. The wine bar features small-production California wines that guests can order by the taste, glass and bottle. Attend monthly wine tasting events with a featured winery where guests can learn and taste wine with the winemaker. L, D (daily). 1158 Prospect St., La Jolla 858.551.8250 • weolive.com/la-jolla
STACKED Living up to its motto of “food well built,” Stacked is an innovative, full-service dining experience at Fashion Valley Mall where diners are in control. Customize what and when you order and pay, via iPads conveniently located at every table. Choose from gourmet burgers, sandwiches, pizzas, hearty salads, mac ‘n’ cheese and more—with dozens of fresh ingredients available to tailor-make your own perfect meal. A full bar features seasonal libations, margaritas, martinis, mules and more; and the kids’ menu includes mini cheeseburgers, grilled cheeses and pizzas. The vibe is casually stylish and fun. You can even build your own milkshake for dessert! L,D (daily).
7007 Friars Rd. #356, Fashion Valley 619.225.7900 • stacked.com
MISS B’S COCONUT CLUB It’s summertime all year round at this popular open-air bar and restaurant, known for its fun, tropical decor and Caribbeaninspired American cuisine. A creative cocktail and rum program features shareable punch bowls and unique libations (the Caribe Welcome arrives in a fresh-cracked coconut); while the kitchen churns out traditional staples and island favorites. Our favorite dishes include the Lechon Asado fries with roasted, pulled pork and Jamaican beer cheese; the jerkrubbed chicken wings; the El Cubano sandwich with smoked ham and Gruyere cheese; and the curried coconut shrimp. This vibrant, happy place by the beach is also great for large parties—complete with a wrap-around patio, communal seating and fire pits. Br (Sa-Su), L, D (daily). 3704 Mission Blvd., Mission Beach 858.381.0855 • missbcoconutclub.com
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SDDINING MISTER A’S With 360 degree views from 12 stories up, exceptional cuisine and a stellar wine list, it’s no wonder why the iconic 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 619.239.1377 • asrestaurant.com
THE FRENCH GOURMET Freshly baked breads and pastries beckon from gleaming glass cases as you step inside this locals’ favorite—a quaint, relaxed restaurant, bakery, and wine shop. The restaurant, featuring California-influenced French cuisine, offers a threecourse, prix fixe dinner menu as well as a la carte options. Appetizers include a housemade French onion soup, escargots and charcuterie; with entrées ranging from duck confit to rack of lamb to vegetarian ratatouille. The French Gourmet also offers full-service and pick-up catering; competitively priced vintage wines and champagnes in its wine boutique; artisanal sandwiches, cheeses, charcuterie, and desserts to-go from the bakery. Reservations recommended. B, L (daily); D (Tu-Sa).
960 Turquoise St., San Diego 858.488.1725 • thefrenchgourmet.com
STK SAN DIEGO Combining a modern steakhouse with a chic lounge at the posh Andaz San Diego hotel, STK makes steak a stylish affair. Each table is illuminated by theatrical lights, and smoky mirrors let diners take in their surroundings while a DJ sets the mood with an energetic live set; along with large windows offerings views of the bustling Gaslamp Quarter. Of course, steak is the main attraction here: Choose from high-quality small, medium and large cuts of USDA beef. Other menu highlights include market-fresh fish entrées, tuna tartare, Lil’ BRGs, and sides such as Parmesan truffle fries and sweet corn pudding. D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su).
600 F St., Gaslamp Quarter 619.354.5988 • togrp.com/stk-san-diego
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/ ENTERTAINMENT FESTIVALS + SPECIAL EVENTS WHALE-WATCHING SEASON Through April. Each year beginning in December, more than 20,000 gray whales migrate from Alaska to Baja California, where the females give birth to their calves. Take in the spectacle via a whalewatching tour along 70 miles of coastline directly in the migration path; Hornblower Cruises offers one of the city’s more popular excursions. hornblower.com. SKATING BY THE SEA Through Jan. 1. 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, hoteldel.com/skating. Map L10 RADY CHILDREN’S ICE RINK Through Jan. 6. Celebrate the holiday season by lacing up your skates at this outdoor ice rink located in the historical NTC at Liberty Station. 2640 Historic Decatur Road, Point Loma, radyfoundation.org/icerink. Map J9 55TH ANNUAL NORTH PARK TOYLAND PARADE Dec. 1, 11 a.m. Parade features a slew of celebrations, plus beauty queens, dance groups, vintage cars, bands and floats. University Avenue, North Park, toylandparade.com. Map J12
Sniff & Swirl Wine tasting in Rancho Bernardo? We’ll drink to that. The 130-year-old Bernardo Winery is a true destination unto itself. Established in 1889 and family owned and operated since 1927 by the Rizzo family, it’s the oldest family-owned/operated winery in the region—home to a spacious tasting room and patio, a restaurant, coffeehouse and shops. Wines include the Oro di Bernardo sparkling wine; a 2016 chablis and chardonnay; the 2017 Vincenzo Rosado rosé; a half-dozen reds ranging from burgundy to zinfandel; and the decadent Chocolate Bar port (dessert in a glass). At The Kitchen at Bernardo Winery, dine on paninis, salads, grilled skewers and pastas such as duck carbonara and gnocchi “cottage pie”—made with local and estate-grown ingredients. 13330 Paseo del Verano Norte, Rancho Bernardo, 858.487.1866
LA JOLLA CHRISTMAS PARADE AND HOLIDAY FESTIVAL Dec. 2, 1:30 p.m. Enjoy the holidays in La Jolla glory, with vintage automobiles, equestrian units, floats, marching bands and a Santa Claus appearance. Girard Avenue in La Jolla. ljparade.com. Map W19 BALBOA PARK DECEMBER NIGHTS Dec. 7-8. Experience this 41st annual two-day holiday blowout, which features carolers, live music, holiday light displays and more festivities. Plus, many museums around the park open their doors free of charge from 5-9 p.m. Balboa Park, balboapark.org/decembernights. Map O17 CORONADO HOLIDAY PARADE AND OPEN HOUSE Dec. 7, 6 p.m. Be a part of the 43rd annual festivities, with a nighttime parade along Orange Avenue, the lighting of a 50-foot Christmas tree and holiday concert. Coronado, coronadochamber.com. Map L10 THE NUTCRACKER Dec. 7-23 (City Ballet) and Dec. 14-23 (California Ballet). Channel your inner Sugar Plum Fairy at two stagings of the timeless holiday classic presented by the City Ballet of San Diego at the historical Spreckels Theatre, and by the California Ballet at the 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. 8. More than 100 illuminated vessels parade along Mission Bay starting at 6 p.m., followed by a fireworks show at 9 p.m. above SeaWorld. Mission Bay, mbyc.org. Map I9 SAN DIEGO BAY PARADE OF LIGHTS Dec. 9 and 16, 5 p.m. See San Diego Bay twinkle with more than 100 private boats decked out with holiday lights for a festive night on the water. Downtown, sdparadeoflights.org. Map Q15 LAS POSADAS: AN OLD TOWN CELEBRATION Dec. 15, noon to 8 p.m. See Old Town decked out for the holidays with extended evening shopping hours and strolling carolers. At 5 p.m., join a candlelight procession and celebrate Las Posadas—actors will re-enact the biblical journey of Mary and Joseph through the town of Bethlehem. Old Town State Historic Park, San Diego Avenue and Twiggs Street, oldtownsandiego.org. Map M13 GASLAMP HOLIDAY PET PARADE Dec. 16, noon-5 p.m. It’s a holiday fete for the pets! Pooches will dress up
GUIDELINES Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps on pages 60-63. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.
INDEX Festivals + Events ......... 48 Museums....................... 54 Theater........................... 50 Destination Shopping... 55 Music + Dance............... 51 Nightlife.......................... 56 Attractions..................... 52 Tours + Transport.......... 57 Wineries......................... 53
as Santa, elves, reindeer and everything in between and march down the festive streets of the Gaslamp Quarter (3 p.m.), starting and ending at MLK Promenade Park (next to the Hilton). Plus a free pet expo. 401 K St., Gaslamp, holidaypetparade.com. Map Q16 SAN DIEGO INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW Dec. 27-30. Check out hundreds of model-year vehicles, plus preview the cars and trucks of tomorrow “where the cars are the stars.” San Diego Convention Center, 111 W. Harbor Drive, downtown, sdautoshow.com. Map R16 PORT OF SAN DIEGO HOLIDAY BOWL PARADE Dec. 31, 10 a.m. Gaze at the massive balloons at this popular annual waterfront parade along San Diego Bay, plus floats and marching bands. Grandstands located at the intersection of Harbor Drive and Ash Street. Downtown, holidaybowl.com/parade. Map P14 SAN DIEGO COUNTY CREDIT UNION HOLIDAY BOWL Dec. 31, 4 p.m. See who wins this epic battle of college football heavyweights. SDCCU Stadium, 9449 Friars Road, Mission Valley, holidaybowl.com. Map I12 MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY PARADE Jan. 20, 2 p.m. Celebrate the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. at this annual waterfront parade along San Diego Bay. Enjoy an afternoon of bands, floats and drill teams as they march along the embarcadero on Harbor Drive. Downtown, alpha-zsl.org/mlkdayparade. Map Q16 SAN DIEGO RESTAURANT WEEK Jan. 20-27. Enjoy fabulous dining for less when over 180 restaurants throughout San Diego County offer prix fixe, threecourse meals. Visit website for participating restaurants. sandiegorestaurantweek.com. SAN DIEGO BLACK FILM FESTIVAL Jan. 23-27. Catch more than 100 films across many genres celebrating African-American and African Diaspora cinema at this annual event, one of the largest black film festivals in the country. Location TBD, sdbff.com. FARMERS INSURANCE OPEN Jan. 24-27. San Diego’s most anticipated pro golf tournament 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, farmersinsuranceopen.com. Map S19 SAN DIEGO MUSEUM MONTH Feb. 1-28. Access more than 40 of San Diego’s top museums for halfoff admission. Pick up passes at San Diego Macy’s stores. Various locations. sandiegomuseumcouncil.org. SAN DIEGO JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL Feb. 7-17. The 29th annual film festival explores Jewish experiences through a slew of shorts, documentaries and feature films. Various locations. sdcjc.org/sdjff.
W Looking for a refreshing dose of live music? Check out the diverse lineup of concerts presented by the San Diego Symphony this winter. p. 52
COURTESYBERNARDO WINERY
THE GUIDE
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ENTERTAINMENT CHINESE NEW YEAR FAIR Feb. 16-17, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Celebrate the Year of the Pig at this free, two-day annual celebration, featuring live performances, children’s crafts, a lantern parade, and a variety of Chinese and Asian foods and cultural displays. Third Avenue and J Street, downtown, sdcny.org. Map Q16 GASLAMP MARDI GRAS PARTY HOP March 1, 6 p.m.-2 a.m. Go downtown for one of the largest Mardi Gras festivals on the West Coast, equipped with beads, live music and distinct SoCal flavor. Fifth Avenue, Gaslamp, gaslampmardigras.com. Map Q16
Your Ticket to
California’s Top Attractions
HILLCREST MARDI GRAS WEEKEND March 2-5. Celebrate Mardi Gras at this annual celebration, featuring live dance and music performances, DJs and a costume contest. Hillcrest, fabuloushillcrest.com. Map N16
THEATER LOOKING FOR CHRISTMAS Through Dec. 16. A world-premiere musical about family, loyalty and the magic of Christmas from country music legend Clint Black, inspired by his 1995 chart-topping holiday album. White Theatre at the Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, theoldglobe.org. Map O17
MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET: A LIVE RADIO BROADCAST Through Dec. 23. San Diego Musical Theatre presents the heartwarming holiday classic retold as a live 1940s-era radio broadcast—with live Foley effects and a score of holiday songs. Horton Grand Theatre, 444 Fourth Ave., downtown, sdmt.org. Map Q16
Disneyland® Park, Disney California Adventure®, SeaWorld® San Diego, LEGOLAND® California, San Diego Zoo
©Disney
A DOLL’S HOUSE, PART 2 Through Dec. 16. This sharp-witted sequel to Ibsen’s masterpiece garnered eight Tony Award nominations, and is a blistering and funny meditation on marriage and the high cost of personal fulfillment. San Diego Rep, Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza, downtown, sdrep.org. Map Q16
citypass.com
Learn more at citypass.com Pricing and programs subject to change; visit citypass.com for details. Pricing and programs subject to change; visit citypass.com for details.
DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! Through Dec. 29. For spirited kids young and old, experience this annual holiday production of a Dr. Seuss classic. Shiley Stage at the Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, theoldglobe.org. Map O17 A CHRISTMAS CAROL Through Dec. 30. Expect 19th-century tradition with a 21st-century twist in this completely reimagined Dickens classic—now a new musical, featuring an original score, puppetry and live sound effects. Cygnet Theatre at Old Town Theatre, 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town, cygnettheatre.com. Map M13 FESTIVAL OF CHRISTMAS Through Dec. 30. This year, Lamb’s Players presents Reaching for the Stars, a brand-new play—featuring classic holiday songs—written by resident playwright Kerry Meads. Lamb’s Players Theatre, 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado, lambsplayers.org. Map L10 THE YEAR TO COME Dec. 4-30. Every New Year’s Eve, a Florida family gathers to ring in the coming year in this hilarious and touching world premiere that shows how the promise of our future is shaped by the lens of our past. Weiss Theatre, La Jolla Playhouse, 2910 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla, lajollaplayhouse.org. Map T20 ALWAYS ... PATSY CLINE Dec. 12-30. Based on the true story of country singer Patsy Cline’s friendship with a fan, this dramatic musical features hit songs such as “Crazy,” “I Fall to Pieces” and “Walking After Midnight.” North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987-D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach, northcoastrep.org. Map X22 MOON OVER BUFFALO Jan. 9-Feb. 3. In this wild and wacky show-within-a-show—with everyone in the wrong costumes and reading the wrong lines—expect an evening of mayhem filled with comic inventions and running gags. North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987-D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach, northcoastrep.org. Map X22 A JEWEL IN THE CROWN CITY Jan. 11-Feb. 17. Lamb’s Players Theatre celebrates its 25th anniversary with a
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ENTERTAINMENT musical and visual journey through some of the most thrilling and moving moments in the theater’s history. Lamb’s Players Theatre, 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado, lambsplayers.org. Map L10 HELLO, DOLLY! Jan. 15-20. Tony Award-winning Broadway legend Betty Buckley stars in this new production that pays tribute to the original work—hailed as one of the greatest musicals. Broadway/San Diego, Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, broadwaysd.com. Map Q16
RIDE
RAILS!
Living History Museum • Weekend Train Rides • Locomotive Rides • Pumpkin Trains • North Pole Trains •
MARIE AND ROSETTA Jan. 16-Feb. 16. In this play, Sister Rosetta Tharpe and her young protégée, Marie Knight, prepare to embark on a tour that would establish them as one of the great duos in musical history. Cygnet Theatre at Old Town Theatre, 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town, cygnettheatre.com. Map M13 AUBERGINE Jan. 24-Feb. 17. Ray, a gourmet chef, is tasked with preparing a family soup recipe to keep his father alive in this moving play about the beauty of life. San Diego Rep, Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza, downtown, sdrep.org. Map Q16 FAMILIAR Jan. 26-March 3. Tensions start to rise when the daughter of immigrant parents insists on a traditional African wedding ceremony in this comedy-drama. Strong language. Shiley Stage at the Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, theoldglobe.org. Map O17
Pacific Southwest Railway Museum www.psrm.org
THE HOUR OF GREAT MERCY Jan. 31-March 3. This poetic new play with music follows Ed, a gay Jesuit priest who leaves the Catholic church to reconcile with his estranged brother in an isolated and icy township in Alaska. Diversionary Theatre, 4545 Park Blvd., #101, University Heights, diversionary.org. Map M18 TINY BEAUTIFUL THINGS Feb. 9-March 10. Based on the best-selling book by Cheryl Strayed, this play follows the relationships between an anonymous advice columnist and the many real-life readers who pour out their hearts to her. Strong language and adult content. White Theatre at the Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, theoldglobe.org. Map O17 DIANA Feb. 19-March 31. In 1981, an assistant kindergarten teacher married the Prince of Wales and, overnight, became the most famous woman in the world. But behind the fairytale, there was a troubled marriage and a young woman struggling to find her voice. Weiss Theatre at the La Jolla Playhouse, 2910 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla, lajollaplayhouse.org. Map T20
COME CURIOUS, LEAVE INSPIRED.
DISNEY’S ALADDIN Feb. 20-March 3. From the producer of The Lion King, this thrilling new production is filled with magic, comedy and breathtaking spectacle, and features favorite songs from the Disney film as well as new music. Broadway/San Diego, Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, broadwaysd.com. Map Q16 GABRIEL Feb. 20-March 17. British playwright Moira Buffini’s award-winning off-Broadway play presents the dramatic tale of the loss and dangers of a family under Nazi occupation in this powerful wartime drama brimming with suspense and intrigue. North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987-D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach, northcoastrep.org. Map X22
Explore interactive exhibits, come face-to-face with exciting creatures, and get hands-on at outdoor touch pools with stunning ocean views.
HERSHEY FELDER, BEETHOVEN Feb. 21-March 24. San Diego’s beloved artist, Hershey Felder, returns with an entirely new take on the world’s greatest composer, Beethoven. San Diego Rep, Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza, downtown, sdrep.org. Map Q16
MUSIC + DANCE + CONCERTS
LA OLLA, CA
OPEN DAILY 9 A.M. - 5 P.M. AQUARIUM.UCSD.EDU 858.534.FISH
ATHENAEUM MUSIC AND ARTS LIBRARY Jan. 10-13: soundON Festival of Modern Music; Jan. 20: Cuong Vu Trio; Jan. 24: Sheila Jordan and Cameron Brown w/ Zion Dyson; Jan. 29: Maxwell String Quartet; Feb. 12: Curtis Vocal Ensemble; Feb. 13: The Bad Plus; Feb. 19: Aaron Diehl Trio; Feb. 25: Thomas Mesa (cello) w/ Ilya Yakushev (piano). 1008 Wall St., La Jolla, ljathenaeum.org. Map W19
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ATTRACTIONS + MUSEUMS BALBOA THEATRE Dec. 15-16: San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus presents Jingle; Dec. 18: Windham Hill Winter Solstice; Jan. 11-12: Tom Segura; Jan. 13: Adam Conover; Jan. 16: David Sedaris; Jan. 18: Iliza Shlesinger; Jan. 19: Louie Anderson; Jan. 22: Kris Kristofferson and The Strangers; Jan. 26: Travis Tritt; Feb. 23: Lauren Daigle; Feb. 24: Gregory Porter. 868 Fourth Ave., downtown, sandiegotheatres.org. Map Q16 CALIFORNIA CENTER FOR THE ARTS, ESCONDIDO Dec. 22-23: The Nutcracker; Jan. 6: The Gliadkovsky Family; Jan. 13: A.J. Croce; Jan. 19: Itzhak Perlman; Jan. 27: Calidore String Quartet: Intimate Classics; Feb. 6: An Evening of Rodgers & Hammerstein; Feb. 21: International Guitar Night; Feb. 21: Amy Grant; Feb. 24: Mesa-Yakushev Duo: Intimate Classics; Feb. 28: Gina Chavez. 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido, artcenter.org. Map B3
Feed … Touch … Connect. A perfect family adventure! Come experience a special “time-out” in the world of nature. More than 130 farm and exotic animals.
CIVIC THEATRE Dec. 14-23: The Nutcracker; Dec. 29: Mannheim Steamroller Christmas; Dec. 30: John Legend: A Legendary Christmas; Jan. 15-20: Hello Dolly!; Feb. 2, 5, 8, 10: Rigoletto; Feb. 20-28: Disney’s Aladdin. 1100 Third Ave., downtown, sandiegotheatres.org. Map Q16 LA JOLLA MUSIC SOCIETY Jan. 20: Leif Ove Andsnes; Feb. 8-10: Danish String Quartet; Feb. 16: Jazz in the Key of Ellison; Feb. 22: Sir András Schiff. Various locations. ljms.org. SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY Dec. 15-16 and 21-22: Noel Noel; Dec. 20: Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker; Dec. 29-30: San Diego Ballet’s The Nutcracker; Jan. 1: Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert; Jan. 10: Rafael Payare Conducts Mozart and Tchaikovsky; Jan. 11-13: Payare and Weilerstein; Jan. 18 and 20: The Young Romantics; Jan. 19: Beyond the Score: Symphonie Fantastique; Jan. 24: Rush Hour Playlist; Jan. 25 and 27: Matt’s Playlist: Echoes of the Future; Jan. 26: Jazz @ The Jacobs: Generation Next: Hearing the Future of Jazz; Feb. 3: A Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra; Feb. 9: Jurassic Park in Concert (film screening w/ live score); Feb. 15-17: Augustin Hadelich Returns; Feb. 22: An Evening with Michael Feinstein; Feb. 23: Jazz @ The Jacobs: Brubeck’s Time Out In Concert. Copley Symphony Hall, 750 B St., downtown, sandiegosymphony.org. Map Q14
Open 7 days a week: 10am-5pm childrensnatureretreat.org 5178 Japatul Spur, Alpine, CA 91901 45 minutes from downtown Exit 30 on 8 East
VALLEY VIEW CASINO CENTER Dec. 14: 91X Wrex the Halls feat. Death Cab for Cutie, Third Eye Blind, Billie Eilish and more; Jan. 29: Elton John; Feb. 10: 2Cellos; Feb. 16: Panic! At The Disco. 3500 Sports Arena Blvd., Midway, valleyviewcasinocenter.com. Map J9 VIEJAS ARENA AT SDSU Dec. 13: Barry Manilow; Dec. 15: Trevor Noah; March 1: Sarah Brightman. 5500 Canyon Crest Drive, SDSU, as.sdsu.edu/viejas_arena. Map E3
ATTRACTIONS ARTS DISTRICT LIBERTY STATION It’s a one-of-a-kind destination for all things culture in San Diego—housing unique museums, working artist studios, gardens, luxury cinemas, dining and more. 2825 Dewey Road, Liberty Station, 619.573.9300. Map J8 BELMONT PARK A beachfront landmark with attractions, rides, arcades and dining. Highlights include the historical Giant Dipper roller coaster and Beach House. 3146 Mission Blvd., Mission Beach, 858.228.9283. Map I8 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. $11-17. 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, 858.534.3474. Map U20 CABRILLO NATIONAL MONUMENT The monument commemorates the landing of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo at S.D. Bay on Sept. 28, 1542. Nearby: whale watching, tidepools, trails, the Old Point Loma Lighthouse and city/ocean views. Daily 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Call for pricing. 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Drive, Point Loma, 619.557.5450. Map L8
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ATTRACTIONS + MUSEUMS CHILDREN’S NATURE RETREAT Visitors of all ages will enjoy this 20-acre outdoor haven—home to more than 80 domesticated livestock from around the world. Fun and educational interactive presentations encourage an appreciation for animals, nature, sustainable farming and our ecosystem. 5178 Japatul Spur, Alpine, 619.320.4942, childrensnatureretreat.com. Map D5
BIG Ocean, Even BiggerAdventure Explore the open ocean in search of Gray Whales with ocean expeRTs from Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography.
A
P A R T N E R S H I P
O F
BOOK NOW
Flagshipsd.com or call 619.234.4111
Daily departures 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
L O C A L
E X P E R T S
the GREAT ROOM ESCAPE Channel your inner Sherlock Holmes with this completely interactive and immersive experience that lets you test your wit while the clock ticks. Teams of participants will enter a room, where they will have to find and solve hidden clues in order to make it out in one hour. 424 Market St., Gaslamp, 619.414.5459, greatroomescapesandiego.com. Map Q16 LEGOLAND Find 60-plus rides and shows, and Sea Life Aquarium’s 7-foot-long Lego submarine; plus a waterpark. For pricing, hours and parking information, please visit website. 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, 760.918.5346, legoland.com/california. Map U22 safari PARK Go on a safari through the 1,800–acre preserve, home to herds of exotic animals roaming in vast enclosures resembling African and Asian plains. Plus, soar over the park with the thrilling Flightline Safari zip line experience. Packages start at $48 for adults; children 3–11 $32; kids 2 and under free. Parking $10. Open daily. 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, 760.747.8702, sdzsafaripark.org. Map C3 San diego BOTANIC GARDEN Visit one of the world’s most diverse plant collections, with 37 acres of lush gardens, a rainforest, children’s areas and activities, and gorgeous trails. Daily 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Adults $18, with discounts for seniors, kids, military and students. Parking $2. 230 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas, 760.436.3036. Map V22 SAN DIEGO ZOO The world-famous zoo houses 4,000 rare and endangered animals in a charming park with gorgeous inclined walking trails. $48; kids 3–11 $32; kids 2 and under free. Free parking. Open daily. 2920 Zoo Drive, Balboa Park, 619.231.1515, sandiegozoo.org. Map O17
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA'S OLDEST WINERY RIGHT HERE IN SAN DIEGO
SEAWORLD The 189-acre adventure park features thousands of marine animals; plus fish, reptiles and birds. $89; kids 3–9 $83; kids 2 and under free. Parking: $14-19. Open daily; call for hours and combo rates. 500 Sea World Drive, Mission Bay Park, 800.257.4268. Map I8
Wineries bernardo winery Founded in 1889, it’s the oldest operating winery in SoCal—family owned and operated. The winery has a spacious tasting room, shops, galleries, The Kitchen restaurant, and a craft coffee house. Enjoy a flight, glass or bottle of onsite produced wines, on one of the patios. Open daily. 13330 Paseo del Verano Norte, Rancho Bernardo, 858.487.1866. Map C4
CARRUTH CELLARS Urban winery and tasting room makes wine from Northern California grapes; tastings daily. 118 S. Cedros Ave., #400, Solana Beach, 858.847.9463. Map X22 MENGHINI WINERY Boutique Julian winery produces just 4,000 cases of syrah, sauvignon blanc, Riesling and cabernet sauvignon annually. Tastings daily. 1150 Julian Orchards Drive, Julian, 760.765.2072. Map C6
DAILY WINE TASTING UNIQUE WINERY VILLAGE SHOPS THE KITCHEN RESTAURANT OPEN TUESDAY-SUNDAY FARMER'S MARKET FRIDAYS 9-1PM PUBLIC TOURS SATURDAY AND SUNDAY 11AM LIVE MUSIC AND LAWN GAMES FRIDAY AND SATURDAY NIGHTS 13330 PASEO DEL VERANO SAN DIEGO 92128 WWW.BERNARDOWINERY.COM 858.487.1866
ORFILA VINEYARDS Growing syrah, cabernet sauvignon, Viognier and more varietals, this 70-acre winery produces about 20,000 cases of Rhone-style wines annually. Open daily. 13455 San Pasqual Road, Escondido, 760.738.6500. Map C3 SOLTERRA winery & kitchen Try the “white” label, made from grapes that are only grown in San Diego County, Temecula and northern Baja, Mexico. 934 N. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.230.2970. Map V22
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ATTRACTIONS + MUSEUMS MUSEUMS CALIFORNIA SURF MUSEUM Collection of surfing artifacts and memorabilia, plus exhibits that detail the lives and achievements of world-renowned surfing legends. Rare surfing collectibles in museum gift shop. Open daily, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Th 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Adults $5; seniors/military/ students $3; kids 12 and under free. 312 Pier View Way, Oceanside, 760.721.6876. Map S22 CENTRO CULTURAL DE LA RAZA Celebrate 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 Coronado’s rich past and interesting fun facts. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (daily). Suggested donation $2–4. 1100 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.7242. Map L10 FLEET SCIENCE CENTER Interactive science galleries explore the wonders of astronomy and physics; plus an IMAX Dome Theater. M-Th 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (open later during holiday breaks); F-Su 10 a.m.-6 p.m. $16.9519.95; kids 3 and under free. 1875 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.238.1233. Map O17 GREEN DRAGON MUSEUM Peruse historical documents, newspapers and memorabilia from the Revolutionary War era inside a colonial-style building; plus an on-site restaurant, bar, cafe and gift shop. M-Sa 11 a.m. till close; Su 10:30 a.m. till close. Free admission. 6115 Paseo del Norte, Carlsbad, 760.918.2421. Map U22 MARITIME MUSEUM OF SAN DIEGO At this worldrenowned floating 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.–8 p.m. $18; seniors/military/teens $13; kids 3-12 $8; kids 2 and under free. The schooner Californian also offers half-day sailing trips ($31-42). 1492 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.234.9153. Map P15 MARSTON HOUSE Craftsman-style house designed by renowned architects William Hebbard and Irving Gill in 1905. The famous estate-turned-museum features 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 5 and under free. 3525 Seventh Ave., Balboa Park, 619.297.9327. Map O16 MINGEI INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM Exhibits celebrate folk art from around the world. Tu–Su 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $5–10; children 6 and under free. 1439 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.0003. Map O17 MISSION SAN DIEGO DE ALCALÁ The first of 21 issions stretching north along the California coast, this m one was established by Father 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 MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART SAN DIEGO Museum features post-1950s art spanning many genres and media. Th-Tu 11 a.m.-5 p.m. $5-10 admission valid for seven days; ages 25 and under free; free third Th 5-7 p.m. 1001 and 1100 Kettner Blvd., downtown, 858.454.3541. Map Q15 MUSEUM OF MAKING MUSIC Explore vintage instruments and interactive audio and visual exhibits that offer a 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; plus regularly rotating exhibits and
Every Day is a Beautiful Day
with Balboa Park Explorer One-Day or Multi-Day Pass - Up to 16 Museums & San Diego Zoo
* One-Day and Multi-Day Pass can be credited towards purchase of a Balboa Park Explorer Annual Pass. Credit must be applied within one week of first use. Rules and restrictions apply. Visit explorer.balboapark.org/faq for more information.
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SHOPPING film screenings. Tu-Su 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $6–8; kids 12 and under free. Free second Tu for S.D. residents. 1649 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.238.7559. Map O17 NEW CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Super-mod museum downtown encourages kids to touch and interact with exhibits; plus creative classes and climbable sculptures. Visit thinkplaycreate.org for hours and admission. 200 W. Island Ave., downtown, 619.233.8792. Map Q16 OCEANSIDE MUSEUM OF ART Regional and international artists showcased in exhibits ranging from landscape painting to furniture, neon sculpture, art quilts and architectural glass. A North County gem. 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 SAN DIEGO AIR & SPACE MUSEUM Spacecraft, jets and historical aircraft; plus special exhibits. Daily 10 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. $10.75-19.75; kids 2 and under free. 2001 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park, 619.234.8291. Map P17 SAN DIEGO HISTORY CENTER Peruse a range of exhibitions that chronicle San Diego’s diverse history. The museum also features an extensive research library—home to several million documents and photographs from the city’s past. M-Su 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $6-10; kids 6 and under free. 1649 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.6203. Map O17
sandiegozoo.org/africarocks
SAN DIEGO MUSEUM OF ART Collection includes Italian Renaissance and Spanish Baroque-era 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. $8–15; youth 17 and under free. 1450 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.7931. Map O17 SAN DIEGO MUSEUM OF MAN This cultural anthropology museum explores cultures from around the world, focusing on the human experience in an effort to inspire human connection and spark meaningful conversations. Daily 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; $6–25; children 2 and under free. 1350 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.2001. Map O17
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Dinosaur displays, giant-screen films, photography exhibitions and more. Daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $12–19; children 2 and under free; free for active military first Tu. 1788 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.3821. Map O17
sdzsafaripark.org/walkabout
STUART COLLECTION Scattered across the UC San Diego 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 Now a retired aircraft carrier, the world’s largest floating naval-aviation museum has restored airplanes on the flight deck and interactive exhibits inside; plus military veterans giving personal tours. Daily 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $8–20; military/kids 5 and under free. 910 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.544.9600. Map Q14
DESTINATION SHOPPING BAZAAR DEL MUNDO This colorful outdoor shopping mall in the heart of Old Town features quaint shops carrying Mexican decor, clothing, jewelry, art and housewares; plus several festive Mexican restaurants. 4133 Taylor St., Old Town, 619.296.3161. Map M14 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; plus a Cinépolis luxury movie theater. 12925 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.793.5757. Map X22
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NIGHTLIFE DEL MAR PLAZA With more than 20 shops and eight restaurants, this gorgeous tri-level boutique shopping plaza overlooks the Pacific Ocean in the heart of Del Mar. 1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.1555. Map X22
North Coast Repertory Theatre
DUTY FREE CITY Located along the U.S.-Mexico border, this 14,000-square-foot space offers sophisticated, duty-free shopping: luxury accessories, beauty products, leather goods, confectionary, wine, spirits and tobacco. 601 E. San Ysidro Blvd., San Ysidro, 619.621.2600. Map F3 FASHION VALLEY The largest mall in San Diego, this beautiful bi-level, outdoor mall includes 200-plus upscale shops (including haute couture labels such as Gucci, Prada and Hermès); five department stores; several restaurants (including True Food Kitchen and Stacked); a food court; and an 18-screen movie theater. 7007 Friars Road, Mission Valley, 619.688.9113. Map J10 FLOWER HILL PROMENADE Del Mar’s continually expanding, upscale lifestyle center is home to refined restaurants (including Cucina Enoteca) and dozens of high-end specialty boutiques. 2720 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.481.7131. Map X22 THE FORUM 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 THE HEADQUARTERS AT SEAPORT Open-air center in a historical setting is home to specialty shops, designer boutiques and restaurants. 789 W. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.235.4014. Map K11 LAS AMERICAS PREMIUM OUTLETS Spanish Colonial-style outlet mall has 125-plus shops, as well as eateries. 4211 Camino de la Plaza, San Ysidro, 619.934.8400. Map F3 OTAY RANCH TOWN CENTER Shops at this airy, stylish South County mall include Apple, Sephora and 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, galleries and restaurants. 849 W. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.235.4014. Map R15 THE SHOPPES AT CARLSBAD Indoor shopping center features dozens of retail, dining and entertainment options, including Zara, The Cheesecake Factory and Dave & Buster’s, plus a kid-friendly, waterinspired play area. 2525 El Camino Real, Carlsbad, 760.729.6183. Map U23 WESTFIELD UTC Beautiful outdoor shopping center with more than 150 upmarket chain retailers and shops, department stores, restaurants, a food court and movie theater. 4545 La Jolla Village Drive, Golden Triangle, 858.546.8858. Map T21
NIGHTLIFE 207/FLOAT Rock ‘n’ roll glamour at the Hard Rock Hotel, from the street-level 207 lounge to the pool-outfitted rooftop Float—featuring bottle service in poolside cabanas. Hard Rock Hotel, 207 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.702.3000. Map Q16
(858) 481-1055 | NorthCoastRep.org Solana Beach
The world is changing at an
DEC 12-30
unprecedented rate. We live in
A Comedy by Ken Ludwig
an age of dizzying possibility, of constant transformation and reinvention. The old rules don’t seem to apply anymore, but is
JAN 9–FEB 3
anyone sure what the new rules are? Hearing the Future, curated by composer-conductor (and 2018 MacArthur Fellow and “Genius Grant” Award recipient) Matthew Aucoin, explores and celebrates the power of music and art to give voice to the evolution and
JAN 24 – FEB 17, 2019
revolutions in the world at large.
V I E W F U L L F E S T I VA L L I N E U P AT SANDIEGOSYMPHONY.ORG/FESTIVAL
PLUS, DON’T MISS RAFAEL PAYARE’S FIRST CONCERTS AS MUSIC DRECTOR DESIGNATE!
FEB 21 – MAR 24, 2019 Get Tickets Now! 619.544.1000 | SDREP.ORG
JAN 10 | 8PM
PAYARE CONDUCTS MOZART AND TCHAIKOVSKY
JAN 11 | 8PM JAN 12 | 8PM JAN 13 | 2PM
PAYARE AND WEILERSTEIN
THE CASBAH Small, legendary rock club, owned by equally legendary champion of indie talents Tim Mays, has hosted Nirvana and The Black Keys. Live music nightly. 2501 Kettner Blvd., Midtown, 619.232.4355. Map P15 EAST VILLAGE TAVERN & BOWL Lively sports bar, bowling alley and restaurant offers cocktails, darts and pool. Menu features upscale pub grub. 950 Market St., East Village, 619.677.BOWL. Map R17
TICKETS & INFORMATION SANDIEGOSYMPHONY.ORG | (619) 235-0804
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TOURS + TRANSPORT EL DORADO Hip downtown bar boasts retro-clad mixologists, couture cocktails and DJs. 1030 Broadway, downtown, 619.237.0550. Map Q17 FLUXX Ambiance-changing dance club from the design team behind Sidebar and other venues—featuring bottle service and top DJs. 500 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.232.8100. Map Q16 HOUSE OF BLUES SAN DIEGO Live rock, blues and pop music, plus Sunday gospel brunch. Regular mix of national and regional acts. Restaurant inside features Southern dishes such as po’ boys and jambalaya. 1055 Fifth Ave., downtown, 619.299.2583. Map Q16 MOONSHINE FLATS Lively venue features countrywestern line dancing, live music and great lineup of DJs; plus a full bar and kitchen. Bring your cowboy boots and hat. 344 Seventh Ave., East Village, 619.255.7625. Map Q16 THE MUSIC BOX Three-story live music venue boasts superior sound and lighting systems, multilevel VIP areas, bar/lounge and upscale dining. Concert lineup includes regional and national touring artists. 1337 India St., Little Italy, 619.795.1337. Map P15 THE NOLEN Named after San Diego visionary John Nolen (1869-1937), this stylish, 14th-floor rooftop bar features skyline views, lounge seating, a fire pit and barrelaged, Craftsman-era cocktails and upscale snacks. 453 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.796.6536. Map Q16 OMNIA SAN DIEGO The city’s most posh nightlife experience includes indoor/outdoor spaces, interactive features, state-of-the-art technology and a superstar lineup of live DJs and electronic artists. F-Sa (nightly). 454 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.544.9500. Map Q16 OXFORD SOCIAL CLUB Intimate venue located below The Pendry hotel features an extensive craft cocktail program and a rotating lineup of national and local DJs. 10p-2a, Th-Sa. 435 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.738.7040. Map Q16 PARQ This posh restaurant and nightclub delivers an unparalleled nightlife experience—with a 20,000square-foot dance space accessed via a stone tunnel— plus renowned DJs and fabulous dining. 615 Broadway, downtown, 619.727.6789. Map Q16 THE ROOFTOP BY STK Vegas-worthy club in the Andaz Hotel boasts sexy decor and a massive, recently renovated rooftop bar with panoramic downtown views. 600 F St., Gaslamp, 619.814.2055. Map Q16 THE SHOUT! HOUSE One of San Diego’s most unique and fun bar experiences. Watch as dueling piano players lead the crowd in classic rock singalongs at this boisterous bar and eatery. 655 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.231.6700. Map Q16 SIDEBAR DJs, dancing and bottle service at this sexy, modern downtown lounge. Watch out for swinging bird cages and nude portraits lining the walls. 536 Market St., Gaslamp, 619.696.0946. Map Q16 THE TIPSY CROW A stylish neighborhood bar housed in a historical building—with three levels, pool tables, shuffleboard and trivia. Menu features pub grub, craft beer and signature cocktails. 770 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.338.9300. Map Q16
LA JOLLA
& DOWNTOWN SD
909 Prospect Street 858.459.8800
TOURS + TRANSPORT BALBOA PARK Free tours about history, architecture, horticulture and botanical gardens. Visitors Center, 1549 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.0512. Map P17
520 Front Street 619.231.7777
Breakfast and Lunch served 7 days a week 6:30AM - 2:30PM Santa Fe Omelette
richardwalkers.com
BIPLANE, AIR COMBAT & WARBIRD ADVENTURES Fly in 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.
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TOURS + TRANSPORT
S CALPULSE DISCOVER THE BEAT OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
BOCA ROJA BAJA WINE ADVENTURES Explore Baja’s top wineries and flourishing wine region via private tours of the Valle de Guadalupe. They also host craft brewery and food tours in Tijuana, Rosarito and Ensenada. bocarojawineadventures.com. BREWERY TOURS OF SAN DIEGO This local company provides transportation to area breweries, beer festivals and beer-related events, plus public and private tours. 619.961.7999, brewerytoursofsd.com CITYPASS Discount combo packages for the San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, SeaWorld, Universal Studios Hollywood, Disneyland and California Adventure. 888.330.5008, citypass.com. COASTER Commuter train offers coastal scenery as it runs north and south through San Diego County, serving eight stations between Oceanside and downtown San Diego. gonctd.com/coaster.
Start your adventure here
CORONADO HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION TOURS Educational and fun walking tours—including local history, architecture and gardens. Reservations required. 1100 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.8788. Map L11 CORONADO TOURING Walking tour around the historical Hotel del Coronado and neighborhood. Tu, Th and Sa at 11 a.m. $15; children 3 and under free. Meet at Glorietta Bay Inn, 1630 Glorietta Blvd., Coronado, 619.435.5993. Map L11 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 bay tours, brunch and dinner cruises, water-taxis and more. 990 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 800.442.7847. Map Q14
# L ove S o C a l
Explore galleries, museums, artist studios, distinctive shops and dining at historic Liberty Station.
ARTSDISTRICTLibertyStation.com #ExploreLibertyStation
GASLAMP QUARTER HISTORICAL FOUNDATION Two-hour walking tour of the Gaslamp. Sa 11 a.m. 410 Island Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.4692. Map R16
WHERE TO EAT • WHERE TO SHOP • WHERE TO GO
F I N D U S AT S OC A L P U L S E . CO M
L O S A N G E L E S • O R A N G E CO U N T Y • S A N D I E G O
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GASLAMP SEGWAY Guided segway tours of historical neighborhoods including La Jolla and Coronado. 308 G St., Gaslamp, 619.239.2111. Map R16 GOCAR TOURS Explore the city in a GPS-guided, storytelling car. (Yes, they’re those tiny convertibles you see tooling around town.) Helmets required. 2100 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 800.914.6227. Map P15 HIKE BIKE KAYAK Daily guided kayak tours and rentals, plus biking and hiking tours, in La Jolla, Mission Bay, Coronado and other areas—plus surfboard and snorkel gear rentals. 2222 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, 858.551.9510. Map V20 HORNBLOWER CRUISES Daily narrated tours of San Diego Bay, plus dinner cruises, yacht charters, whale watching and events. 970 N. Harbor Drive, Broadway Pier, Embarcadero, 619.686.8715. Map Q14
Live Music Every Weekend. Great Views of Downtown. Shopping for the Whole Family. For more visitor & event info visit: coronadoferrylanding.com 1201 1st Street Coronado, CA 92118
LA JOLLA KAYAK Guided snorkeling/kayak tours Begin CFL_WI19.indd 1 of the cove and caves; SUP; single/double kayak and snorkeling gear rentals; whale watching; and bike tours. 2199 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla Shores, 858.459.1114. Map V20
your adventure here...
BalboaParkConservancy.org 10/22/18
4:10 PM
MJ TOURS Unique, marijuana-related tours are designed to educate about the history, process and business of cannabis, as well as entertain—from grow tours to “buds and brews” tours. mjtourscalifornia.com. OLD TOWN TROLLEY TOURS OF SAN DIEGO Narrated sightseeing tour explores San Diego and Coronado via trolley or “SEAL” (sea and land vehicle). Call for nearest pickup point and reservations. 619.298.8687. SAN DIEGO CHINESE HISTORICAL SOCIETY Unique walking tour of the Asian-Pacific Historic District downtown. Second Tu-Sa 10:30 a.m., Su noon.
OPEN DAILY 9:30AM–4:30PM 619.239.0512
PARK INFORMATION Free Map and Guide Museum & Zoo Passes Audio Walking Tours Attraction Tickets
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Visit our brand new Flagship store in Cedros Design District
435 S. Cedros Ave. #103 Solana Beach, CA. 92075
An eclectic collection of women’s clothing and accessories from around the world.
Reservations required. $2; children under 12 free. Chinese Historical Museum, 404 Third Ave., downtown, 619.338.9888. Map R16
Featuring Desigual Derhy, Ivko & more...
SAN DIEGO SCENIC TOURS Specializes in daily scheduled, professionally narrated, sightseeing tours of San Diego, and Tijuana, Mexico (including the famous Agua Caliente Racetrack); along with bus transportation for private group charters. 858.273.8687. SAN DIEGO SEAL TOURS This unique, 90-minute tour aboard the company’s unmistakable, bright-blue Hydra-Terra—an “amphibious vehicle” that drives passengers from land right into the water—explores San Diego Bay and its environs. Departs Th-M from Seaport Village. 500 Kettner Blvd., Marina District, 619.298.8687. Map Q15
@Satori.Designs
An eclectic collection of women’s clothing and accessories from around the world.
www.satori-designs.com
TOURS + TRANSPORT
SAN DIEGO SPEED BOAT ADVENTURES Be the captain of your own speed boat! Trained guides help you navigate the seas via two-way radio and provide a narrated tour during this 13-mile trek along beautiful San Diego Bay. 1450 Harbor Island Drive, #205, Harbor Island, 619.294.5852 Map Q14 Featuring Desigual Derhy, Ivko & more...
An eclectic collection of women’s clothing and accessories from around the world.
Visit our brand new Flagship store in Cedros Design District
@Satori.Designs
435 S. Cedros Ave. #103 Solana Beach, CA. 92075 www.satori-designs.com
435 S. Cedros Ave. #103, Solana Beach satori-designs.com
SKYE LIMOUSINE Upscale limousine and sedan service for the savvy traveler, offering a fleet of wellmaintained Chrysler 300 sedans, corporate vans and stretch limousines. 1322 K St., East Village, 619.239.7599. Map Q17 SUP CORONADO Enjoy both group and private lessons in the popular sport of stand-up paddle-boarding, plus ocean and bay tours. Ideal for both beginners and seasoned boarders. Various Coronado locations, 619.888.7686. SUPERSHUTTLE Runs to and from the airport 24 hours a day. Accepts all major cards. Individuals, groups and charters welcome. Earn frequent-flyer points and miles with select airlines. 800.BLUE.VAN. URBAN SAFARIS Discover San Diego’s inner soul on walking tours of its unique urban neighborhoods. Enjoy weekend walkabouts of San Diego neighborhoods (or by appointment). Covers key points of interest and unique details for every area. 619.944.9255.
Summer WHERE
NEVER ENDS
5 GREAT LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU! San Diego Headquarters 789 W. Harbor Dr. Del Mar Del Mar Plaza, Plaza Level 1555 Camino Del Mar, Ste 328 Carlsbad 2975 State St. Palm Desert JW Marriott-Desert Springs 74855 Country Club Dr. Desert Springs Market Place 72924 Country Club Dr, #G130
COCOROSE.COM
WEST COAST CANNABIS TOURS Take a ride on the “cannabus” for cannabis-focused, educational tours and activities around the city, including recreational marijuana dispensary tours, brewery tours, glassblowing demos, cannabis culinary demos and much more. westcoastcannabistours.com. WHERE YOU WANT TO BE TOURS Offering team-building scavenger hunts that explore downtown San Diego. Walking and biking tours also available; plus culinary food tours and custom hotel property games. Events are ideal for leadership retreats, recruitment, school programs, birthday celebrations, family and school reunions, and more. 611 K St., East Village, 619.917.6037. Map Q16 XPLORE OFFSHORE Personalized ocean-rafting on a Navy SEAL-style boat: high-speed sightseeing, snorkeling and evening cocktails on the waterfront. It’s one of the most unique and exhilarating boating excursions in all of Southern California. Plus, whale watching (seasonal) and custom adventures. Perfect for outings with family, friends, groups and corporate events. 858.456.1636.
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WHERE 30 THINGS WE LOVE
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24 Quiet morning strolls along the Pacific Beach boardwalk, before the crowds arrive. Retail therapy and bloody marys at Farmer’s Table. p. 9 Whale watching excursions; blue and gray whales can be spotted off S.D. shores in winter and spring. p. 48 Dining on sushi in traditional omakase-style (i.e., at the chef’s mercy) at Hidden Fish in the Convoy District. p. 8 Watching PGA pros tee off at the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines Golf Course. p. 6 Witnessing Balboa Park come alive with lights, music and 300,000 holiday revelers at December Nights. p. 48 Taking the ferry from downtown San Diego across the bay on a Saturday to the landmark Coronado Ferry Landing.
where in the world
A night at the opera with San Diego Opera. This season’s classic productions include Rigoletto and Carmen. p. 11 Watching pooches play at Ocean Beach’s Dog Beach. Morning hikes through Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, as waves crash below. Retail therapy at Liberty Station, home to dozens of shops (including a new location of homeware retailer Pigment, pictured), art galleries, restaurants and Liberty Public Market. p. 24 The duck-fat truffle fries at The Smoking Goat in North Park. p. 27 Jogging along the sandy stretches of La Jolla Shores Beach.
28
27 Taste-testing our way through Little Italy Food Hall.
Soaring over Pauma Valley on California’s longest zip line. p. 29
The Maine Feast for Two at Lobster West—a lobster roll, crab roll and shrimp roll. Heaven. p. 28
Touring the city’s many incredible museums for halfprice admission during San Diego Museum Month. p. 48
Mountain-biking through the gorgeous trails of Tecolote Canyon Natural Park. Checking out new exhibits at the San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park. p. 31 Wine tasting and dining at the 130-year-old Bernardo Winery in Rancho Bernardo. p. 48 Watching a play at North Coast Repertory Theatre in Solana Beach. northcoastrep.org
The 72 striking murals at Chicano Park in Barrio Logan.
Feasting on authentic Texasstyle barbecue at the new location of Grand Ole BBQ y Asado in El Cajon. p. 18
Exploring exhibits at the Oceanside Museum of Art.
Sunny Coronado Beach mornings with a good book.
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 Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charleston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Georgia, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Maui, Minneapolis/St. Paul, New Orleans,
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Brew-tasting at San Diego’s many new beer halls, including Duckfoot East Village, Nolita Hall, Working Class, Second Chance and more. p. 10 Shopping for gifts at Bazaar del Mundo in Old Town. p. 27 Ice cream sandwiches at Lola 55 in East Village. p. 12 The Best Drink Ever (an Americano with signature creamy vanilla) and the avocado toast at Better Buzz in Hillcrest. Ice skating by the beach overlooking the Pacific in midDecember at Hotel del Coronado, wearing shorts. These San Diego winters are brutal! p. 48
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