Where Traveler San Diego Magazine - Winter 2020

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SAN DIEGO WINTER

2020

Meet Five Fabulous Female Chefs Explore Unique Destinations in University Heights San Diego Opera’s New Season Unfolds

EaT, DRINK, SHOP Delicious new dining options await at the city’s two biggest malls.

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WINTER

2020

CONTENTS DEPARTMENTS Editor’s Note 4 Hot Dates 6 Where Now 8 Maps 60 30 Things We Love 64 CITY TOURS Downtown 20 La Jolla 22 Beach Cities 24 Uptown 26 North Coast 28 Balboa Park 30

2020

Meet Five Fabulous Female Chefs Explore Unique Destinations in University Heights San Diego Opera’s New Season Unfolds

EaT, DRINK, SHOP Delicious new dining options await at the city’s two biggest malls.

10/1/19 9:20 AM

COVER

Feasting on Korean-inspired cuisine at the new Bibigo Kitchen (p. 17).

Courtesy photo.

THE GUIDE 36 48 52 53 55 56 57

Dining Entertainment Attractions Museums Shopping Nightlife Explore

12

Retail sweets at Extraordinary Desserts

FEATURES

12 Wonder Women in the Kitchen

San Diego is home to some serious—and often unsung—culinary talent. We sit down with five fabulous female chefs, and learn more about their passion for their craft and the buzzing restaurants whose kitchens they man, so to speak. BY WENDY LEMLIN

16 Dine. Imbibe. Shop.

The concept of “mall dining” has evolved far beyond food courts. We tour some of the intriguing new eateries at the county’s two biggest shopping centers—Fashion Valley Mall and Westfield UTC—offering a meld of restaurants and retail therapy. BY SARAH DAOUST C O N N E CT W I T H U S O N L I N E S O CA L P U L S E . CO M

FROM TOP: HALEY HILL, COURTESY EXTRAORDINARY DESSERTS

WINTER

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Stellar Ember at Madison

ON THE

SAN DIEGO

grand-seiko.com

11

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SOMETHING FOR EVERY TASTE DIN TAI FUNG | JAVIER’S | GREAT MAPLE THE WINERY RESTAURANT & WINE BAR | TRUE FOOD KITCHEN PLUS OVER 150 STORES

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EXPERIENCE THE WORLD OF WYLAND

THE

AT

EDITOR’S NOTE

W Y L A ND GALLERIES

Sculptor

WINTER

2020

Feed Me, Please

T

First Born Original Lucite sculpture by Wyland ©

Photographer

Charging Black Rhino Original Fine Art Photography by Wyland ©

Painter

he fact that I don’t cook (much) is a running joke among my friends and family. It’s not that I can’t or don’t know how. I can follow a recipe in a pinch. But I simply don’t have the interest or passion. The compelling thing is, I LOVE food. I live to eat. The inner Anthony Bourdain in me deeply believes in the healing powers of world travel and in experiencing cultures, people, history and destinations through food. I have no dietary restrictions. I’m a carnivore. I eat carbs.

I’m adventurous and will try anything once—fried crickets, escamoles, raw sea snails and Grasscutter (a rodent served to me when I was volunteerteaching in Ghana) come to mind. But I’ve accrued all kinds of reasons (read: excuses) as to why I don’t cook. As a dining and food writer, I eat out for a

living. Most nights, I’m thrilled to have the pros cook for me. Also, I live in a household of three: my husband, my dog and myself. So when we decide to dine in, my husband is exceptionally talented and likes to cook. I let him.

Also, Uber Eats and Postmates. And finally, why are the dancing blue flames on the stove so scary? And, in order to use the oven, clearly I’d have to stop using it as storage for my shoes?

(Carrie Bradshaw would be proud of the latter.) Mostly, I’m kidding. The blue flames aren’t really scary, but they sure are serious. And when it comes to our Dining Issue, I couldn’t be more serious when I profess how much I respect our local restaurateurs and chefs. So, if ever I’d deign to don a toque, I’d tip it to you all. Thank you for feeding me! —SARAH DAOUST

Starry Sea Turtle Original painting by Wyland ©

WYLAND GALLERIES 855 W. Harbor Drive, #52 San Diego, CA 92101 800-WYLAND-5 619-544-9995

OPEN DAILY 10 AM TO 9 PM

www.wyland.com Follow Wyland

All kinds of deliciousness at Blanco Tacos & Tequila (p. 16).

TIM KING (TOP); COURTESY IMAGE

Seaport Village

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PUBLISHER EDITOR

Jeff Levy

Sarah Daoust

ART DIRECTOR

Carol Wakano

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Benjamin Epstein

PRODUCTION ARTIST

Diana Gonzalez

CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER

Heidi Schwindt

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Claire Caraska, Wendy Lemlin DIGITAL EDITOR COPY EDITOR

Alicia Luchak

Claire Caraska

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Brown W. Cannon III, Karen Morrison, Lorenzo Menendez, Edwin Santiago, Ashok Sinha, Sam Wells, Ian White REGIONAL DIRECTOR

Cr t beer lovers

Kerry Brewer

ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Alexandra LaClergue, Jessica Levin Poff, Reagan Zorn BUSINESS MANAGER

calling all

Leanne Killian Riggar

Now open in San Diego, Brew30 California Taps features 30 rotating taps sourced from the region’s top-tier breweries and distilleries.

CIRCULATION MANAGER

Brooke Knetzger

MARKETING/PRODUCTION MANAGER

Dawn Kiko Cheng ADMINISTRATION

Whitney Lauren Han

Enjoy a gourmet burger, watch a sports game and taste-test a variety of San Diego's award winning craft beer all under one roof when you visit

NATIONAL SALES Joy Lona 213.596.7211 HONORARY PRESIDENT

Ted Levy

where traveler San Diego 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 Alicia.Luchak@WhereSD.com Circulation Brooke.Knetzger@WhereSD.com Plan ahead for your next visit to San Diego— subscribe to where traveler: Single copy $4, 4 issues $16.

Contact: Brooke Knetzger, phone: 619.260.5599 E-mail: Brooke.Knetzger@WhereSD.com © 2019 Southern California Media Group. All Rights Reserved.

Published by Southern California Media Group. where traveler 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 traveler is a ­registered trademark of Morris Visitor Publications.

Printed in the United States.

Circulation audited by Alliance for Audited Media

In San Diego, where traveler magazine is pleased to be a member of San Diego Concierge Association, Gaslamp Quarter Association, San Diego Tourism Authority and San Diego Historical Society.

O N T H E W E B S O CA L P U L S E . CO M

brew30.com 1 Market Place, San Diego CA 92101 (619) 232-1234 Self-park at Grand Hyatt San Diego for 3 free hours with validation when you experience Brew30

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HOT DATES

Dining Discoveries

WINTER

EVENTS Jan. 19-26

Enjoy fabulous dining for less during San Diego Restaurant Week, when more than 180 restaurants throughout the county will offer fixed-price, three-course meals.

For dinner, choose from $20, $30, $40 or $50 options, depending on the restaurant you select. Lunch options are $10, $15 or $20. Our picks: JRDN at Tower23 hotel for sushi, seafood and views of the Pacific Beach Boardwalk and ocean; International Smoke at One Paseo for seafood and smoked dishes; and Cucina Urbana for Cali-Italian fare and cocktails. p. 48

GREAT THINGS THIS SEASON HERE FOR THE WEEKEND? Check out our Weekend Roundup at SoCalPulse.com

DECEMBER NIGHTS

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 from any number of San Diego tour companies, and you won’t be disappointed. p. 48

Attracting more than 350,000 visitors, the 42nd annual celebration is the largest free community festival in San Diego. Festivities include live music, dance performances and holiday light displays. Many museums open their doors free of charge from 5-9 p.m. p. 48

ICE SKATING

MLK JR. DAY PARADE

Celebrate the holiday season San Diego-style with Skating by the Sea—a temporary outdoor iceskating rink on the Hotel del Coronado’s Windsor lawn— plus a new rink-side lounge called Frostbite. p. 48

Celebrate the legacy of Dr. 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. p. 48

Ongoing

Through Jan. 5

Dec. 6-7

Jan. 20

FARMERS INSURANCE OPEN

CHINESE NEW YEAR FOOD & CULTURAL FAIR

The annual PGA tournament at Torrey Pines Golf Course includes post-parties presented by Harrah’s Resort SoCal, a Pro-am Tournament, exclusive lounges and charitable activities. p. 48

Now in its 36th year, this free, two-day annual celebration features more than 25 performances, children’s crafts, a lantern parade and a variety of Chinese and Asian foods and cultural displays—held at the corner of Third Avenue and J Street downtown. p. 50

Jan. 23-26

S.D. MUSEUM MONTH Feb. 1-29

Explore more than 40 museums, historical sites, monuments and gardens for half-off admission, including the downtown location of Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, Birch Aquarium at Scripps, Maritime Museum and several Balboa Park museums. p. 50

Feb. 8-9

GASLAMP MARDI GRAS Feb. 21, 22 & 25

Venture downtown to the Gaslamp Quarter for the largest Mardi Gras party on the West Coast. VIP passes include welcome libations, dining deals and access to 20 clubs and bars. p. 50

COURTESY INTERNATIONAL SMOKE

8

WHALE-WATCHING

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D E L M A R H E I G H T S // S A N D I E G O

LOVE AT FROST SIGHT. With over 40 restaurants and shops, One Paseo is bringing together an artful blend of workplace, retail, dining, and residences within one urban village.

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We invite you to enjoy a fresh new experience with the opening of these local and national favorites:

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yster house

PLUS MORE COMING SOON!

3725 Paseo Place, San Diego, CA 92130 onepaseo.com // @onepaseo

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WHERE NOW WINTER

DINING

Wake-Up Call It’s ornate, “Instagrammable,” sensory overload with a brunch-focused menu seemingly dreamt up by Willy Wonka—ranging from sweet to savory to downright silly. Yet, the over-the-top vibe at Consortium Holdings’ Morning Glory commands lines out the door and up to two-hour wait times. Open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily, the eatery’s opulent decor by design partner Paul Basile is sheer eye candy that almost looks like actual candy—from the 30-foot, electric pink neon flower sculpture over the main dining room; to the pink Champagne vending machine; to the cotton-candy-colored bar stool tops and ample dining booths. Cheerful servers clad in overalls appear with decadent comfort dishes such as the Japanese soufflé pancakes, Very Frenchie French Toast, extra-crispy fried chicken ‘n’ waffles, and the McDiddle with Spam (group chef Jason McLeod’s take on the McDonald's McGriddle). To drink: a hot chocolate flight, bloody mary or spiked Orange Julius, anyone? 550 W. Date St., Little Italy, 619.629.0302

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Baked goods at Zinqué

OPPOSITE, ZACK BENSON; TOP RIGHT, HALEY HILL; BOTTOM RIGHT, COURTESY SIGN OF THE WHALE

OUI, OUI It feels like a whisper of France floated in on a light breeze at Zinqué—a quaint French bistro, cafe and wine bar housed at Little Italy’s AV8 building. Fans of the mini chain by Emmanuel Dossetti know it from its other Orange County and Los Angeles outposts, namely the iconic original Venice location. The 3,000-square-foot, chic-minimal interior boasts a meld of its signature charred cedar wood paneling, wood-beam ceilings and raw concrete—setting the tone for an intimate experience. Sip on coffee brewed from La Colombe coffee beans; sample French charcuterie, cheeses, desserts, breads and croissants; and imbibe on craft cocktails and organic, sustainable vin from a French wine stock. Offerings also include quiche, gourmet sandwiches, tartines, steak frites, rotisserie chicken, grilled whole branzino and their popular Le Bowl—with brown rice, avocado, tomato, arugula, Comte cheese, cilantro and sriracha. For brunch, try the baked eggs and smoked salmon toast; and don't miss happy hour from 4-6:30 p.m.

Monday through Friday, when select beverages and bites are all under $10. 2101 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.915.6172

It’s a Sign From Connecticut (home of its sister restaurant in Stamford) to California with love, Sign of the Whale takes over the former Florent space in the heart of the Gaslamp.

The casual, neighborhoodstyle hang spotlights locally sourced New American fare— think burgers, sandwiches, flatbreads, salads, small bites and entrees, with plenty

of seafood options—along with a full bar and wraparound patio. We love the flash-fried Brussels sprouts with gorgonzola, black currant and bacon; the oyster po'boy sliders; Baja fish tacos; and lobster and shrimp ravioli. Night owls will enjoy The Brig bar/lounge on the lower level, once a jailhouse in the late 1800s. And don’t

miss brunch (served Friday through Sunday)—featuring specialty craft cocktails; bottomless mimosas; sangria “tsunamis” that serve 5-8; and brunch empanadas filled with smoked ham, potatoes, scrambled eggs and cheddar cheese. More than a dozen TVs ensure you don’t miss the game. 672 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.756.7333

Baja fish tacos at Sign of the Whale

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WHERE NOW WINTER

ART + CULTURE

Curtain Call

San Diego Opera sings with boutique productions and powerful classics.

The 2019-20 season for San Diego Opera is a full-speed-ahead return to some great classics mixed with unexpected twists (beginning with Aida last October) that local audiences haven’t seen in years; plus a mix of favorite artists and dazzling staging. As part of its Detour Series, One Amazing Night takes place on Dec. 11 at Balboa Theatre—featuring soprano Ailyn Pérez and tenor Joshua Guerrero in a Spanish-themed recital, accompanied by pianist Abdiel Vazquez. The Opera stages Engelbert Humperdinck’s Hansel & Gretel at the Civic Theatre, Feb. 8, 11, 14 and 16. Based on the Brothers Grimm fairy tale in which two children head into the dark, mysterious woods, leaving a trail of breadcrumbs along their path, and discover a gingerbread house that turns from sweet to terrifying. Life-sized puppets will be used to transform the adult singers into children—with mezzo-soprano Blythe Gaissert in the role of Hansel, and soprano Sara Gartland as Gretel. Another Detour Series production, the West Coast premiere of Paola Prestini’s Aging Magician unfolds at Balboa Theatre March 13-14.

A true visual spectacle, the hybrid opera melds puppetry, chorale music and opera into a one-hour, 25-minute run. The multitalented Rinde Eckert portrays Harold, an eccentric clockmaker nearing his life’s end, who is transported to a fantastical realm in which he questions what is real. The Brooklyn Youth Chorus provides sensational musical backup. Further into the spring: The Barber of Seville, April 25 and 28 and May 1 and 3 at the Civic Theatre; and The Falling and The Rising, May 8, 9 and 10 at Balboa Theatre. Bravo! sdopera.org

Ailyn Pérez performs with Joshua Guerrero on Dec. 11.

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FOR MORE THINGS TO DO IN UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS, VISIT SOCALPULSE.COM

ONE BLOCK THINGS TO DO IN

UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS

OPPOSITE: COURTESY THE ARTIST. SOICHI: MARK LAGRISOLA / MAKU DESIGN.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Nigiri at Soichi; Kokoro cocktail at Madison; jewelry at La Loupe Vintage; Diversionary Theatre.

SHOP

SEE

A peaceful retreat nestled in the heart of University Heights since 1989, Buddha’s Light Bookstore is a quirky, quaint shop with something for everyone (Buddhist or not). Peruse books on Buddhism for adults and kids, books on meditation and mindfulness, prayer beads, incense, meditation cushions, Buddha statues, Buddhist accessories and more. For a fashion fix, La Loupe Vintage specializes in rock ‘n’ roll-inspired fashions and jewelry from the late 1960s. Shop from a collective of 40-plus artists and vintage curators.

Staging edgy productions since 1986, Diversionary Theatre is an intimate theater venue centered on plays and musicals with LGBT themes. Winter shows include The Santaland Diaries through Dec. 22; and A Kind of Weather, Feb. 6-March 8. For some adult playtime, Park & Rec feels like you’re hanging out at your neighbor’s awesome Craftsman-style house.

Sip a cocktail under twinkling lights in the bar’s courtyard, which is surrounded by Craftsman bungalows, followed by a round of Ping-Pong, darts or shuffleboard.

Buddha’s Light Bookstore

Diversionary Theatre

EAT

Calling all pie lovers! Pop Pie Co. is the ‘hood’s new fast-causal haunt, serving sweet and savory mini pies, gourmet coffee, wine and craft beer. We love the “soyrizo” egg and cheese breakfast pie; the slow-braised steak & ale pie; and the salted caramel apple crumble for a sweet fix. Craving sushi?

Soichi is a cozy dining den (just 12 seats at the sushi bar) offering an authentic Japanese omakase dining experience. This means owner/ chef Soichi Kadoya will craft a custom tasting menu for you, with a la carte selections also available.

4545 Park Blvd., #101,

4404 Park Blvd., Suite A,

619.298.2800

619.220.0097

619.501.4440

Park & Rec

Beer fans will love Kairoa Brewing Company—a New Zealandinspired brewpub housed in a remodeled 1920s building—with a dog-friendly rooftop lounge overlooking the University Heights sign. Founders Shanan Spearing and Joe Peach brew San Diego pale ales, lagers and IPAs made with New Zealand-imported hops.

For cocktails, Madison mixes some of the best in San Diego. Bar manager Danny Kuehner recently unveiled a new drink menu with hits such as the Peruvian piscobased Stellar Ember, and Japanese whiskey-based Kokoro.

Pop Pie Co.

4538 Park Blvd.,

La Loupe Vintage

DRINK

Soichi

Kairoa Brewing Company 4601 Park Blvd., 619.295.1355

Madison

4646 Park Blvd.,

4612 Park Blvd.,

2121 Adams Ave.,

4622 Park Blvd.,

619.955.5373

619.795.9700

619.677.2220

619.269.6566

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WONDER WOMEN IN THE

KITCHEN

Meet five fierce chefs spicing (and sweetening) up San Diego’s culinary scene.

by WENDY LEMLIN  photographed by KAREN MORRISON

Kelli Crosson A.R. VALENTIEN

H

aving grown up on a farm in a tiny California town, Chef de Cuisine Kelli Crosson will tell you that leaving a job in marketing and going to culinary school in Manhattan in her mid-20s was the best decision she ever made. When she interviewed for her first position at A.R. Valentien at The Lodge at Torrey Pines 10 years ago, she says, “I felt instantly at home. I knew this was where I was supposed to be, and a decade later I still feel it.” Six years ago, she became chef de cuisine at the prestigious restaurant. Her culinary philosophy can be described as hyper-seasonal, sourcing locally whenever possible, and embracing simplicity—letting the ingredients speak for themselves. “When I create a dish, I tend to design it around an ingredient I want to showcase. I’ve worked hard to develop strong relationships with area farms and suppliers from which I source, and they often inspire me with their suggestions as to which ingredients are particularly fantastic at the time.” 11480 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, 858.777.6635

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RIGHT, COURTESY EXTRAORDINARY DESSERTS

Superheroes don’t always wear capes and shoot lasers. Sometimes, they wear chef’s jackets and take on hungry appetites with knives, skillets and mixing bowls—elevating the dining experience into a victory of exceptional cuisine. In a field traditionally dominated by men, women today are showing equal prowess and conquering the kitchen hierarchy with impressive cooking skills and feminine energy. We sat down with five fabulous chefs, who happen to be female, and who infuse every bite they craft with the excitement and love of their profession. Their recipe for success? Hard work.

Karen Krasne EXTRAORDINARY DESSERTS

T

here should be a sign above the door of Extraordinary Desserts' sleek new Bankers Hill location on Fourth Avenue that reads “Abandon All Willpower, Ye Who Enter.” Faced with a display case filled with Karen Krasne’s opulent cakes and desserts decorated with fresh flowers, luscious fruits and flakes of gold, who could possibly resist a decadent, calories-be-damned splurge?

A San Diego native, Krasne's journey as a pastry chef began, ironically, with a degree in nutrition and biosciences from the University of Hawaii. She found her true calling while working in a French bakery there, and after graduation she moved to Paris—where she studied pastry at acclaimed Le Cordon Bleu culinary school.

After returning to San Diego, she opened Extraordinary Desserts in 1989. Today, the restaurant has grown to two locations—Bankers Hill and Little Italy—with an expanded menu that includes savory dishes, wines and cocktails.

Her favorite ingredients to play with include the many varieties of Valrhona artisanal choco-

late, often paired with such tropical flavors as yuzu or passionfruit. “I am living my dream,” Krasne beams. “I bring people joy by creating pastries you won’t find anywhere else, and my work allows me to indulge my other passion— traveling and tasting the world with my family.”

2870 Fourth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.294.2132; 1430 Union St., Little Italy, 619.294.7001

Decadent desserts adorned with flowers and gold flakes at Extraordinary Desserts

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Starters and salads at Ciccia Osteria

Francesca Penoncelli CICCIA OSTERIA

C

hef Francesca Penoncelli has cooked in prestigious kitchens all over the world, from her native Italy to Paris, Seoul, Beirut and Dubai. A decade ago, she and her fellow chef, business partner and now husband, Mario Cassineri, landed in San Diego to helm Milan-based Bice Ristorante in downtown’s Gaslamp Quarter. With the June 2019 opening of Ciccia Osteria in the city neighborhood of Barrio Logan, however, Penoncelli is fulfilling her longtime dream of

owning a “small, simple restaurant,” and putting the couple’s spin on time-honored family recipes with a touch of modern interpretation.

“Traveling and cooking around the world was exciting, but I always knew that what I really wanted was my own osteria or trattoria. In Italy, these are comfortable, unpretentious family-run restaurants with everything made fresh daily. And like them, Ciccia Osteria has become a welcoming, casual neighborhood gathering place, serving high-quality food and interesting wines at affordable prices.” 2233 Logan Ave., Barrio Logan, 619.674.4069

Mareyja Sisbarro BROCKTON VILLA

A

fter a shredded ankle ended Mareyja (pronounced “Mariah”) Sisbarro’s path to becoming a professional skateboarder, she enrolled in culinary school at Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island—trading in the breakneck pace of the skate park for that of a restaurant kitchen. After following school friends to San Diego, she cooked at various restaurants until she landed a position at Brockton Villa overlooking La Jolla Cove 10 years ago. A self-described hard worker who was, and still is, willing to do whatever is needed in the kitchen—from washing dishes to crafting cuisine—she quickly moved up to the position of executive chef. “My approach to cooking is a lot like my personality,” Sisbarro confides. “It’s casual, down-to-earth, fun. I hate getting 'dressed up,' so my food is never fussy. High quality, yes. Delicious, yes. But always approachable and identifiable.” 1235 Coast Blvd., La Jolla, 858.454.7393 14 SOCALPULSE.COM WINTER 2020

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A stone fruit tart at Blue Bridge Hospitality's Little Frenchie bistro in Coronado

Lori Sauer BLUE BRIDGE HOSPITALITY

Y

ou could say that Lori Sauer brings sweetness everywhere she goes. As the executive pastry chef for Coronado-based Blue Bridge Hospitality, she creates desserts for each of the company’s nine diverse restaurant concepts (including Stake Chophouse & Bar, Liberty Public Market, Maretalia, brand-new bistro Little Frenchie and more). “Dessert is the last impression customers will have of their meals, so I work closely with the chefs to ensure that the desserts complement the rest of the menu.”

Sauer especially enjoys handcrafting fun ice cream flavors and frozen confections for MooTime Creamery, the landmark ice cream parlor where Blue Bridge first began.

Sauer often competes at chef throwdowns benefiting local charities, but perhaps her most unusual competition took place last spring on the Viceland TV network show, Bong Apétit. The contestants created cannabis-laced desserts for a panel of judges that included comedians Cheech and Chong and soccer player Hope Solo. “I didn’t win, but I learned a lot!” she laughs. Also keeping her busy, Sauer serves as the brand ambassador for Callebaut and Cacao Barry chocolate, and a trainer for Rational Cooking Systems. Life is sweet. bluebridgehospitality.com WHERE TRAVELER SAN DIEGO 15

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Dine. Imbibe. Shop.

FROM FAST-CASUAL TO FINER DINING, SAN DIEGO’S TWO BIGGEST MALLS ARE BRIMMING WITH NEW OFFERINGS.

BY SARAH DAOUST

GO AHEAD AND SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP … and then drop in for an elevated culinary experience to refuel.

“Mall dining” has evolved well beyond food courts and uber-fast food, and San Diego County’s two biggest shopping centers—Fashion Valley Mall and Westfield UTC—continue to add interesting and diverse new eateries as delicious proof. We rounded up a few of our favorites that are further solidifying these landmark properties as lifestyle centers—serving as hubs for retail therapy and, now, dynamic dining destinations.

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The BBQ platter at Bibigo Kitchen.

Opposite: North Italia.

FASHION VALLEY MALL Bibigo Kitchen Concept & Cuisine » A new “fine-casual” outpost serving Korean-inspired fare— centered on Korean grill, small plates, sizzling hot stone bowls and Korean cocktails.

Decor & Vibe » Counter-service ordering in a modern, linear space punctuated by clean lines, warm woods, banquettes and communal seating.

Must Try » The beef and vegetable mandu (Korean-style dumplings), the BBQ platter and the honey-soy fried chicken.

COURTESY IMAGES

Blanco Tacos + Tequila Concept & Cuisine » Lives up to its name with street-style tacos and modern Mexican dishes, an expansive tequila and mezcal selection, specialty cocktails and dessert.

Decor & Vibe » A bright, cheery, nearly 5,000-square-foot indoor/outdoor bar and restaurant with an umbrella-covered patio.

Must Try » The Snake River wagyu carne asada tacos, the grilled Mexican street corn and the Mexican chocolate tiramisu.

North Italia Concept & Cuisine » Handmade-fromscratch pastas, small plates, salads, pizzas and Italian cocktails for lunch and dinner; plus weekend brunch.

Cocktails at Blanco Tacos + Tequila

Decor & Vibe » Contemporary and bustling, with a sleek bar, wood-paneled ceilings, indigo-upholstered seating, urban wall murals and a crowd of stylish shoppers, post-work professionals and those on casual dates.

Must Try » The chef’s daily pizza, the tagliatelle pasta with Bolognese, and the Apricot Limonata cocktail.

MORE OPTIONS So Sushi An elevated sushi lounge serving nigiri, sashimi and specialty rolls.

Stacked A fun, modern eatery with a full bar, where guests can customize their own burgers, sandwiches, pizzas, salads, shakes and much more via an iPad located at every table.

True Food Kitchen A spacious, health-driven restaurant and bar with locally sourced, seasonal dishes and gluten-free/vegan options.

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Queenstown Bistro.

Opposite: kurobuta pork dumplings at Din Tai Fung.

Javier’s Concept & Cuisine » Fine Mexican dining in an elegant, almost resort-like restaurant and lounge—serving premium steaks, Maine lobster enchiladas and Mexican prawns bathed in wine sauce and garlic butter.

Decor & Vibe » Sophisticated and usually packed—complete with a massive, rope-like light feature glittering over the main bar, lush greenery, modern fountains, mosaic tiling and stylish patrons sipping signature Javier's margaritas.

Must Try » Hands down, the carnitas plate— slow-cooked, succulent pork meat that is pan-fried to crispy golden perfection, served on the bone with a side of hand-ground tortillas.

Queenstown Bistro Concept & Cuisine » A casual, all-outdoor bistro serving New Zealand-style dishes, grass-fed burgers, hearty salads, shareable plates, house-made sangria and craft cocktails.

Decor & Vibe » A lush garden patio with a bar, outfitted with striped pagoda umbrellas offering shade; ivy, ferns, tillandsias and Madagascar jasmine inspired by New Zealand’s natural landscape; and whimsical

lighting and fixtures that model honeycomb and beehives.

Must Try » The free-range, grass-fed, New Zealand rack of lamb with veggies; and the chicken pot pie in a puff pastry with savory bread pudding.

Din Tai Fung Concept & Cuisine » A contemporary Taiwanese dining hall that commands lines out the door daily—famous for its dumplings, buns, noodle soups and fried noodle dishes.

Decor & Vibe » Casual, lively and loud—with a glass-enclosed prep room up front where guests can watch the culinary staff prepare dumplings, buns and more.

Must Try » The sweet and sour pork baby back ribs; truffle and kurobuta pork soup Champagne at The Winery

dumplings; and noodles with sesame sauce.

Great Maple Concept & Cuisine » A chic diner serving seasonal comfort food with a gourmet twist, cocktails and brunch daily.

Decor & Vibe » A swanky 1950s-inspired decor, sans pretense—with a linear bar and chartreuse-upholstered bar stools, booths and banquettes; plus a covered patio.

Must Try » The famous maple-bacon doughnuts, salted caramel pork ribs, and truffled deviled eggs.

MORE OPTIONS Tocaya Organica Stylish, fast-casual, indoor/outdoor eatery for healthy Baja fare with plenty of vegan options—from salads to bowls, tacos and burritos—plus a full bar.

Larsen’s Steakhouse Upscale steakhouse chain known for its prime dry-aged steaks, seafood and vast wine selection.

The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar A boutique wine country experience—with tastings, pairings, flights, elegantly plated California cuisine, a quaint patio lounge with fire pits, and climate-controlled cellars that guests can tour.

ABOVE, CARLEY EALEY

WESTFIELD UTC

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FASHION VALLEY MALL

7007 Friars Road, Mission Valley Bibigo Kitchen / 619.419.2150 Blanco Tacos + Tequila / 619.810.2931 North Italia / 619.343.2301 So Sushi / 619.291.7711 Stacked / 619.225.7900 True Food Kitchen / 619.810.2929

WESTFIELD UTC

4545 La Jolla Village Drive, UTC Javier’s / 858.200.2222 Queenstown Bistro / 858.623.2748 Din Tai Fung / 858.375.5988 Great Maple / 858.886.7403 Tocaya Organica / 858.333.7920 Larsen’s Steakhouse / 858.886.7561 The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar / 858.230.7404

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CITY TOURS FIND THE BEST IN

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 Park, 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 Fine Art Gallery (628 L St.). Shop for preowned luxury watches at Nikki & Co. Fine Jewelers (562 Fifth Ave.). For some quick primping, stop by Blo Gaslamp (435 Island Ave.), a blow-dry salon also offering manicures and makeup. Back on Fifth, 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 venue comprises TCL Chinese Theatre’s first luxury dine-in cinema, with eight state-of-the-art movie theaters; the world-famous Sugar Factory

American Brasserie; and the Chocolate Lounge, a dessertthemed eatery and cocktail bar.

Further satisfy your sweet tooth in Theatre Box’s retail area, stocking 450 types of confections.

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.

And stroll through Horton Plaza Park—featuring an amphitheater, vendors and art installations.

Parking can be dicey in the Gaslamp; a garage is your

GREAT FIND

Landing Strip >Have a layover at Lindbergh Field? Or simply thirsty and looking for some sweet San Diego Bay views? Head to Layover—the new outdoor lounge on the fourth-floor rooftop of the InterContinental San Diego hotel. The sleek deck features a 15-seat bar, fire pits and comfy Adirondack chairs. Enjoy cocktails, light bites and views of the bay and airplanes taking off nearby. 901 Bayfront Court, Embarcadero, 619.501.9400

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 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

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: EDWIN SANTIAGO, BROWN W. CANNON III, ALAMY STOCK PHOTOS (2)

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

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Waterfront Park; USS Midway Museum; fresh fruit at the Little Italy Mercato; Cafe 21 on Fifth Avenue in the Gaslamp Quarter.

INSIDER TIPS

Bottoms Up Try these stylish downtown watering holes for fabulous craft cocktails, beer and wine.

ing designers. Running parallel to India Street, Kettner Boulevard forms the spine of the art-anddesign district. A gallery cluster near the corner of Kettner and Kalmia includes 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. the Spreckels Theatre (121 Broadway) hosts performing arts events throughout the year.

FAR RIGHT: COURTESY FIFTH & ROSE; OPPOSITE, BOTTOM LEFT: COURTESY LAYOVER

EAST VILLAGE Petco Park (100 Park Blvd.) and the Central Library (330 Park Blvd.) are landmarks of this edgy neighborhood. Enjoy some open, green space at Fault Line Park (1433 Island Ave.). For some retail therapy, stop by 5&A Dime (828 G St.), which sells streetwear, shoes and hats for men; and Wild Dove Boutique (740 Market St.) for women’s fashions.

The area’s burgeoning art scene includes a few notable outposts: 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.), stocked with rare artwork, house wares, bath products, jewelry and gift items; and Vitreum (619 W. Fir St.), specializing in simple, elegant ceramics. On Cedar, Vocabulary (414 W. Cedar St.) is a chic boutique featuring emerg-

EMBARCADERO Shop and dine at The Headquarters at Seaport, offering galleries and boutiques, such as CoCo Rose (789 W. Harbor Drive, #146), stocking beach and resort wear; and Seaport Village, with shops, eateries and galleries such as Wyland Galleries (855 W. Harbor Drive). Grab a 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 dinner excursions aboard a Hornblower yacht (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.

Fifth & Rose

Craft & Commerce/ False Idol 675 W. Beech St., Little Italy, 619.269.2202

Fairweather 795 J St., East Village, 619.255.6507

Fifth & Rose 550 J St., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.738.7050

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

Top of the Hyatt Manchester Grand Hyatt, 1 Market Place, downtown, 619.232.1234

You & Yours Distilling Co. > FOR A MAP OF THESE NEIGHBORHOODS, SEE P. 62. AREA RESTAURANT LISTINGS BEGIN ON P. 36.

1495 G St., East Village, 619.955.8755

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CITY TOURS FIND THE BEST IN

La Jolla 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 elegant women’s dress/gown shop Alexia Maria (1261 Prospect St.) and Robina (1275 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.

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. Contemporary Fine Arts Gallery (7946 Ivanhoe Ave.) houses paintings, sculptures and limited-edition works by international artists; and National Geographic Fine Art Gallery (1205

Prospect St.) is home to stunning animal and nature photos. Fresh Paint Gallery (1020-B Prospect St.) specializes in emerging to mid-career artists.

La Jolla Boulevard heads south out of the village toward Bird Rock, where stylish boutiques 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.).

GREAT FIND

Wine & Dine >Discover an intimate, European-style bistro and wine bar at Candor by chef/restaurateur by Giuseppe Ciuffa. Inspired by his upbringing in Cori—a town outside of Rome, Italy—the menu highlights local produce, freshly baked pastries, handcrafted olive oils, and dishes such as spicy shrimp bucatini and a daily fresh catch; and cornmeal pancakes for weekend brunch. 1030 Torrey Pines Road, Suite B, La Jolla, 858.246.7818

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 La Jolla Playhouse.

The theater was founded in 1947 by actors Mel Ferrer, Dorothy McGuire and Gregory Peck.

The Stuart Collection, a group of 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.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: ASHOK SINHA, COURTESY IMAGE, EDWIN SANTIAGO, COURTESY IMAGE

LA JOLLA IS A JEWEL SPARKLING WITH ART, THEATER, FINE DINING, SHOPPING AND OUTDOOR RECREATION.

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THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Salk Institute for Biological Studies; pelicans at La Jolla Cove; La Plaza La Jolla in the village.

INSIDER TIPS

OPPOSITE: Windansea.

FAR RIGHT: J. DIXX PHOTOGRAPHY; OPPOSITE, BOTTOM LEFT: JAMES TRAN

La Jolla Eats

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.

Southwest of campus sits the famous Scripps Institution of Oceanography (8622 Kennel Way) and Birch Aquarium (2300 Expedition Way); both are toprated ocean-life learning centers.

In La Jolla Village, the Museum of Con­temp­orary Art San Diego (closed for renovation), is housed in the former home of Ellen Browning Scripps. The Athenaeum Music & Arts Library (1008 Wall St.) features art exhibitions and concerts. And The Conrad (7600 Fay Ave.) is home to the La Jolla Music Society.

RECREATION La Jolla is paradise for adventure-seeking ocean lovers. The

Cove (1100 Coast Blvd.) hosts 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, e.g., 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.

Grab a table at these La Jolla restaurants offering gorgeous coast and cove views and divine cuisine.

Catania’s chic interior

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

GOLDEN TRIANGLE

George’s at the Cove

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.

1250 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.4244

> FOR A MAP OF THESE NEIGHBORHOODS, SEE P. 63. AREA RESTAURANT LISTINGS BEGIN ON P. 38.

Marine Room 2000 Spindrift Drive, La Jolla, 858.459.7222

The Med La Valencia Hotel, 1132 Prospect St., La Jolla, 855.818.6887

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CITY TOURS FIND THE BEST IN

Beach Cities

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

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 with tons of sand dredged from the bay. Shelter 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 1,400-seat outdoor venue.

Nearby Harbor Island has its own, smaller outdoor festival site, Spanish Landing Park. Both islands offer postcard vistas of the downtown skyline, plus flat paths for walks and bike rides.

GREAT FIND

Golf & Grub >Take in views of the Coronado Golf Course, bridge and bay from Feast & Fairway—Rise and Shine Restaurant Group’s new bistro/bar/event space, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Featuring an oceanfront lawn, expansive patio dining, floor-to-ceiling windows and a living wall, the property maximizes Coronado’s striking scenery. Try the bloody mary and the BBQ bacon-cheddar burger. 2000 Visalia Row, Coronado, 619.996.3322

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 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

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: BROWN W. CANNON III (2), COURTESY SEAWORLD, SAM WELLS

CORONADO

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CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Sunset Cliffs near Ocean Beach; a sandcastle at Coronado Beach; SeaWorld’s Turtle Reef; Coronado Ferry Landing with skyline views.

INSIDER TIPS

Coronado Musts

FAR RIGHT: JAMES TRAN; OPPOSITE, BOTTOM LEFT: COURTESY FEAST & FAREWAY

Spending a sunny day in Coronado? Be sure to visit these cool spots.

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 Mis-

sion 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, Belmont Park is San Diego’s iconic beachfront amusement park since 1925—with 20-plus rides and attractions, including the Giant Dipper roller coaster and Plunge at Fit beachfront pool.

(3125 Ocean Front Walk).

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.

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.).

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 resort hotels and worldrenowned SeaWorld. Don’t miss the Shark Encounter.

Shrimp at Serea

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

Coronado Museum of History & Art 1100 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.7242

Lamb’s Players Theatre 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.6000

Serea, Hotel del Coronado 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.6611

Stake Chophouse & Bar > FOR A MAP OF THESE NEIGHBORHOODS, SEE P. 61. AREA RESTAURANT LISTINGS BEGIN ON P. 39.

1309 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.522.0077

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CITY TOURS FIND THE BEST IN

Uptown

EXPLORE THESE ECLECTIC ‘HOODS: HILLCREST, UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS, MISSION HILLS, NORTH PARK & SOUTH PARK.

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 coffee-sippers crowding the sidewalks. It’s also San Diego’s official LGBT community and hosts the Pride Festival and Parade, which attracts tens of thousands, 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 res-

taurants, 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 and quaint shops. Isabela (1111 Fort Stockton Drive) is an elegant skin care boutique; and Maison en

Provence (820 Fort Stockton Drive) stocks French-country home wares. Stop by San Diego’s oldest garden center, Mission Hills Nursery (1525 Fort Stockton Drive), an urban oasis founded in 1910 by Kate Sessions.

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.

GREAT FIND

Good Morning >The first meal of the day is no doubt the most important at North Park Breakfast Company—from the mashed potato waffles to the churro French toast to the fried rice benedict. The modern brunch bistro boasts a covered dining patio; vegan options (try the vegetarian scramble); and libations such as the Bacon & Eggs Bloody topped with deviled eggs, and kombucha on tap. 3131 University Ave., North Park, 619.269.2118

NORTH PARK Centered at University Avenue and 30th Street, North Park is a 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, Explore North Park is a great online resource (explorenorthpark.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

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: JON BILOUS, EDWIN SANTIAGO, SHERRY V. SMITH

HILLCREST

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THIS PAGE: colorful Hillcrest; Junipero Serra Museum at Presidio Park.

OPPOSITE: Observatory North Park and West Coast Tavern on University Avenue.

INSIDER TIPS

Old Town Tour As the historical heart of San Diego, Old Town was California’s first settlement, founded in 1769.

Stop by these cool sites.

A ceramic skull at Bazaar del Mundo

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

Heritage County Park 2454 Heritage Park Row, Old Town, 858.565.3600

Junípero Serra Museum 2727 Presidio Drive, Mission Hills, 619.232.6203

Mormon Battalion Historic Site

FAR RIGHT: COURTESY PHOTO

2510 Juan St., Old Town, 619.298.3317

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 Gold Leaf (2225 30th St.), a rustic-chic shop that stocks colorful furniture, home decor, jewelry, candles and gifts; 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.

Old Town San Diego Historic Park 4002 Wallace St., Old Town, 619.220.5422

Whaley House > FOR A MAP OF THESE NEIGHBORHOODS, SEE P. 61. AREA RESTAURANT LISTINGS BEGIN ON P. 42.

2476 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.297.7511

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CITY TOURS FIND THE BEST IN

North Coast 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.

Del Mar Plaza offers ocean views, dining and upscale shops such as Sea Biscuit Del Mar

(1555 Camino Del Mar, #318), stocking apparel and gifts; and CoCo Rose (1555 Camino Del Mar, #325), carrying luxe beach and resort wear made in Bali.

The retail district is lined with more shops, including Carolyn’s (1310 Camino Del Mar), carrying designer resale items; and The Dinosaur Gallery (1327 Camino Del Mar), stocking rare fossils, crystals, artwork, jewelry, unique gifts, kids’ toys and more.

Great shopping continues east of the fair­grounds at Flower Hill Promenade (2720 Via de la Valle); and at One Paseo (3745 Paseo Place), a new center with dozens of stores, restaurants and tenants such as BlackBook, Salt & Straw and SoulCycle.

At the end of the day, head to Seagrove Park (Coast Boulevard at 15th Street) to enjoy a brilliant sunset overlooking the Pacific.

SOLANA BEACH 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

GREAT FIND

Let’s Do Brunch >For those who love brunch, even for lunch, Toast Gastrobrunch is here for you. A lifelike cow welcomes you inside the campy-mod eatery— which is usually packed with patrons enjoying smoked brisket hash, red velvet pancakes and “Eggs in Purgatory” (pictured) in a sourdough bowl.

We also love the coconut-pistachio kanafee with shredded phyllo, ricotta and jack cheese filling. 5970 Avenida Encinas, Carlsbad, 760.438.1212

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; Lotus (240 S. Cedros Ave.), a marketplace with 40-50 merchants; and chic women’s clothier Satori Designs (435 S. Cedros Ave., #103). Stop to smile at dogs and their humans coming and going at Muttropolis (227 S. Cedros Ave.), which sells premium pet supplies.

Find hip home decor and art books at Solo (309 S. Cedros Ave.), and everything for the modern garden at color-splashed Chicweed (240 S. Cedros Ave.).

And catch a concert at the Belly Up (143 S. Cedros Ave.).

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: LORENZO MENENDEZ, IAN WHITE, RICK SEYMORE, COURTESY IMAGE

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

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THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE: Self-Realization Fellowship; The Flower Fields; The Village at Pacific Highlands Ranch.

INSIDER TIPS

OPPOSITE: Beacon’s Beach in Encinitas.

Inland Stops For more cool cultural destinations and adventures, visit these dynamic inland spots.

A short drive inland leads to San Diego Botanic Garden (230 Quail Gardens Drive) showcasing 3,000 rare and exotic plants across 37 acres of gardens.

AnzaBorrego

CARLSBAD

FAR RIGHT: TIM KING; OPPOSITE, BOTTOM LEFT: COURTESY TOAST GASTROBRUNCH

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 blossom–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 is home to two dozen shops,

wine bars, eateries and cafes.

Don’t miss DeepFling (937 S. Coast Hwy. 101) with jewelry from Scandinavian designers.

In the center of downtown, the La Paloma Theatre (471 S. Coast Hwy. 101) has anchored the district since the 1920s and still hosts concerts and independent films. Shops 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 cluster of shops is found at The Gold Coast (466 N. Coast Hwy. 101), whose tenants include Cielo hair salon and boutique.

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.

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.

> FOR A MAP OF THESE NEIGHBORHOODS, SEE P. 63. AREA RESTAURANT LISTINGS BEGIN ON P. 40.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park 200 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs, 760.767.4205

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

Eagle Mining Co. 2320 C St., Julian, 760.765.0036

La Jolla Zip Zoom Ziplines 22000 CA-76, Pauma Valley, 760.742.3776

San Diego Archaeological Center 16666 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, 760.291.0370

San Diego Zoo Safari Park 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, 760.747.8702

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CITY TOURS FIND THE BEST IN

Balboa Park 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 collec-

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

The San Diego Art Institute’s Museum of the Living Artist

GREAT FIND

Museum Masterpieces >On view through Feb. 23, the San Diego Museum of Art presents Abstract Revolution—exploring the development of Abstract Expressionism relative to women’s contributions—drawn from the museum’s permanent collection. Through March 15, the museum presents the exhibit Bouguereau & America—featuring close to 40 paintings by William Adolphe-Bouguereau (1825-1905). 1450 El Prado, Balboa Park, sdmart.org

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.

SCIENCE & HISTORY Balboa Park’s many nonvisual 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

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: SHUTTERSTOCK (2), ASHOK SINHA; FAR RIGHT: COURTESY SAN DIEGO ZOO; BOTTOM LEFT: LEE KRASNER, PINK STONE, 1969, COURTESY SAN DIEGO MUSEUM OF ART.

SAN DIEGO’S “CROWN JEWEL,” OFFERING A VARIETY OF ART, MUSIC AND PERFORMANCES ALL YEAR-ROUND.

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Balboa Park’s central fountain and piazza at dusk; the Visitors Center; the lush Botanical Building, home to more than 2,100 permanent plants.

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

Albert’s Restaurant San Diego Zoo, 2920 Zoo Drive, 619.685.3200

Cucina Urbana 505 Laurel St., Bankers Hill, 619.239.2222

Extraordinary Desserts 2870 Fourth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.294.2132

Flight Path Grill San Diego Air & Space Museum, 2001 Pan American Plaza, 619.234.8291

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., Bankers Hill, 619.795.1501

The Prado at Balboa Park 1549 El Prado, 619.557.9441 WINTER 2020 WHERE TRAVELER SAN DIEGO 31

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in Balboa Park

sandiegoairandspace.org

SAN DIEGO

MUSEUM OF MAN

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.

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 103-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 the Polar Bear Plunge habitat to say hello to the playful polar bears.

After visiting the zoo, try your hand at the brass ring game from your perch atop a handcarved pony on the Balboa Park Carousel.

Both kids and grown-ups are welcome on the Balboa Park Miniature Railroad, which takes a three-minute, half-mile trip through 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.

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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 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.

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY • Interactive exhibits featuring Pause|Play through January 5 and The Brain and Mindbender Mansion opening February 1.

• The world's first IMAX® Dome Theater, now showing CUBA and Superpower Dogs.

• Kid City, just for kids 5 and under.

FLEETSCIENCE.ORG

DINING For a sit-down experience, try The Prado, whose lively, colorful interior and charming garden patio—not to mention delicious Latin American cuisine and 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 Lady Carolyn’s Pub, located on the campus of The Old Globe theater; 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. > FOR AN OVERVIEW MAP OF THE PARK, SEE P. 62.

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Game On 56 TABLE GAMES | 2,800 SLOTS | POKER | BINGO

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PAN-ASIAN PALACE

THE GUIDE WINTER

OUR FAVORITES

DUSTIN BAILEY

The most anticipated restaurant opening of the year, Animae is a $5.5-million, ornate oasis by the Puffer Malarkey Collective that screams sexy art-deco opulence—complete with jewel-toned seating and grandly draped curtains. The Pan-Asian-American menu is equally grand, with gourmet street food, robata-grilled proteins, raw seafood delicacies, noodle and rice dishes, and Japanese cocktails. Don’t miss the black garlic udon noodles with lobster and chili (pictured). 969 Pacific Hwy., downtown, 619.432.1225

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THE GUIDE / DINING GASLAMP QUARTER

CAFE SEVILLA > Spanish $$$ A celebrated staple of the Gaslamp, Cafe Sevilla still serves up the same Spanish tapas, seafood specialties, and flamenco and salsa lessons that have made it a longtime locals’ favorite. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 353 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.5979 Map R1 DONOVAN’S STEAK & CHOP HOUSE > Steak $$$ The power crowd noshes on huge portions of prime steaks, chops and seafood paired with award-winning wine in a sophisticated atmosphere. D (nightly). 570 K St., Gaslamp, 619.237.9700 Map R16

North Star Feast on Napoli-style woodfired pizzas (baked in a custom, Italy-imported Stefano Ferrara brick oven), handmade semolina pastas, desserts and more at Oceanside’s Blade 1936—a modern Italian restaurant and craft cocktail bar dreamt up by chefs Mario Cassineri and John Carlo Ferraiuolo. Housed inside a historical Oceanside building, designed by architect Irving Gill, the space once operated as the Blade-Tribune newspaper circa 1936 to the mid-1960s. The art deco-mod decor is outfitted in rustic wood and steel accents, nostalgic Italian photography, and menus designed to look like old newspaper issues; plus patio seating and an oceanview rooftop lounge. Serving dinner (try the truffle pizza and pappardelle with sausage ragu) and weekend brunch, Blade 1936 also offers full gluten-free and vegan menus. 401 Seagaze Drive, Oceanside, 760.231.1456

GARAGE KITCHEN + BAR > American $$ This hip hangout housed in a historical building features a music motif and menu of craft cocktails and new American eats—including flatbreads, sandwiches, salads and entrees such as bone-in, sous vide short rib. Br (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 655 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.231.6700 Map Q16 GREYSTONE PRIME STEAKHOUSE > Steak $$$ 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 LIONFISH > Seafood $$$ Hotspot inside The Pendry hotel features modern coastal cuisine, from elevated sea fare—big-eye tuna pizza, specialty sushi rolls, daily fresh catches and a full raw bar—to carnivore-friendly options like duck confit tostadas. D (nightly). 8435 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.738.7200 Map Q16 MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S > Seafood $$$ 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., Gaslamp, 619.645.6545 Map Q16 NOBU > Japanese $$$$ The hotspot at Hard Rock Hotel by Nobu Matsuhisa serves authentic sushi, the chef’s famous jalapeño-yellowtail sashimi and excellent miso black cod. D (nightly). 207 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.814.4124. Map Q16 THE OCEANAIRE SEAFOOD ROOM > Seafood $$$ 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 > Seafood $$$ Indulge in caviar, vodka and oysters at this progressive eatery, whose interior is defined by a three-story wine tower. Prime-aged meats are also on the menu. D (nightly). 904 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.239.1800. Map Q16 OSTERIA PANEVINO > Italian $$ This casual, Tuscan-inspired eatery conjures the sights, sounds and smells of the Old World with a rustic, farmhouse ambiance, a lengthy wine list and house-made bread and pastas. L, D (daily). 722 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.595.7959 Map Q16 REI DO GADO > Steak $$$ Brazilian-style steakhouse serves succulent mesquite-

Guidelines Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps on pages 60-63. The compendium consists of editors’ recommendations, as well as a small number of advertisers.

Index Gaslamp Quarter...........36 Coronado...................... 40 Downtown/E.V./Barrio...36 Del Mar/Rancho S.F..... 40 Embarcadero/Marina....37 North Coastal............... 40 Little Italy.........................38 Uptown.......................... 42 La Jolla............................38 Old Town/Bay Park........44 Mission Bay/Beaches....39 Mission Valley/ Harbor/Shelter/Loma....40 Kearny Mesa..................45

(V) = Vegan/Vegetarian

cooked beef and pork, brought tableside on skewers until you tell them to stop. L, D (daily). 939 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.702.8464 Map Q16 RUSTIC ROOT > American $$$ Featuring seasonal New American cuisine, stylish decor, craft cocktails and an expansive rooftop bar, this Gaslamp hotspot boasts dishes like braised short rib and lobster pappardelle. D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su). 535 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.232.1747 Map Q16 SEARSUCKER > American $$$ 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 (SaSu). 611 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.7327 Map Q16 STK SAN DIEGO > Steak $$$$ Steak is the star of the menu here: Choose your size and cut, from a 6-ounce filet to a 128-ounce dry-aged tomahawk; then choose a topping, such as Alaskan king crab and truffle butter; and finish with a side of their famed sweet corn pudding. D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su). 600 F St., Gaslamp, 619.354.5988 Map Q16 WATER GRILL > Seafood $$$ 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

DOWNTOWN/EAST VILLAGE/BARRIO CAFE 222 > Breakfast $ 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 COWBOY STAR > Steak $$$ 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 GRANT GRILL > California $$$ Expect seasonal dishes with local ingredients—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

> In the mood for a night out in Little Italy? The city’s hottest dining ‘hood has it all—Italian bistros, pizza parlors, steak, seafood and more. p. 38.

SOPHIA KICKO

BLUE POINT COASTAL CUISINE > Seafood $$$ 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

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DINING

FRESH SEAFOOD. FLOWN IN DAILY. The Ultra-fresh Seafood Experience®

THE MISSION > Breakfast $ Acclaimed local mini-chain is known for pancakes, French toast, smoothies, breakfast burritos and healthconscious Latin dishes. B, L (daily). 1250 J St., East Village, 619.232.7662 Map Q17 MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE > Steak $$$$ USDA prime-aged beef, seafood, an excellent wine list, cocktails, decadent desserts, crisp white linens and great service at the edge of the historical Gaslamp Quarter. D (nightly). 285 J St., downtown, 619.696.3369 Map Q16 RICHARD WALKER’S PANCAKE HOUSE > Breakfast $ Beloved, family-owned/operated institution since 1948 offers gourmet breakfast and lunch fare. Choose from oven-baked omelets, Bavarian-style oven-baked pancakes, classic griddlecakes, crepes, Benedicts and more. B, L (daily). 520 Front St., downtown, 619.231.7777 Map Q15 SALUD! > Mexican $$ Cult-followed casual eatery offers elevated tacos, craft beer, a salsa bar, and churros with ice cream. 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 TAPAS & BEERS > Mediterranean $$ Relaxed, casual space features 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

EMBARCADERO/MARINA DISTRICT Gaslamp Disitrict | 400 J Street | 619-858-2277 | theoceanaire.com

CARNITAS’ SNACK SHACK > California $$ This pork-centric eatery and bar along the waterfront serves smoky meat dishes, sandwiches, carnitas tacos, cocktails, soft-serve ice cream and bay views. 1004 N. Harbor Drive, downtown, 619.696.7675 Map Q15 DEL FRISCO’S DOUBLE EAGLE STEAK HOUSE > Steak $$$$ Enjoy traditional fine dining and top-notch service along with sweeping bay views and two patios. Extensive menu features hand-cut steaks and chops, seafood and classic starters such as the blue cheese wedge salad and shrimp cocktail. L, D (daily). InterContinental San Diego Hotel, 901 Bayfront Court, #105, downtown, 619.272.5060 Map Q15 EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD > American $$$$ Find classics like shrimp cocktail, crab cakes and lobster bisque; plus 28-day-aged prime steaks. Enjoy live jazz nightly in the lounge. D (nightly). 789 W. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.615.0281 Map Q15 THE FISH MARKET > Seafood $$$ Casual dining includes fresh local seafood, sushi, an oyster bar and San Diego Bay views. Upstairs: fine dining and an expanded wine list at Top of the Market. L, D (daily). 750 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.232.3474 Map Q15 HORNBLOWER CRUISES > American $$ Celebrate a special occasion or surprise your sweetheart with a three-hour dinner cruise aboard a luxury yacht along San Diego’s stunning waterfront. Enjoy a three-course meal, chilled sparkling wine and dancing.

D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1800 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.686.8715 Map Q14 PUESTO > Mexican $$$ The organic, taco-laden menu boasts potato soy chorizo tacos and lobster tacos with black beans and crispy onions. Plus specialty cocktails, beer, wine and an array of high-end tequilas and mezcals. L, D (daily). 789 W. Harbor Drive, #155, downtown, 619.233.8880 Map K11 ROY’S > Pacific Rim $$$$ High-end chain serves chef Roy Yamaguchi’s Hawaiianfusion fare—including steak, seafood and sushi—in

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DINING pizzas and salumi. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1655 India St., Little Italy, 619.237.9606. $$$ Map P15 HERB & WOOD > American $$$$ Dine on wood-fired dishes and sip old-school cocktails inside Brian Malarkey’s sprawling warehouse-turned-chic hotspot. D (nightly), Br (Su). 2210 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.955.8495 Map P15 INDIGO GRILL > Latin $$$ The popular Cohn Group restaurant features a Latininspired menu that includes unique offerings such as achiote-marinated prime flat iron steak, potato taquitos and chili-azucar salmon flatbread. Plus an outdoor patio along India Street. D (nightly). 1536 India St., Little Italy, 619.234.6802 Map P15

Surf ‘n’ turf at Red O, p. 39

a contemporary setting overlooking the marina. L, D (daily). Marriott Marquis Hotel, 333 W. Harbor Drive, Marina District, 619.239.7697 Map Q15 SALLY’S FISH HOUSE & BAR > Seafood $$$ 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

LITTLE ITALY BARBUSA > Italian $$$ The stylishly modern trattoria is owned by the Busalacchi family. Feast on updated Sicilian classics such as stuffed risotto balls, pastas, pizzas, seasonal cocktails and Nutellabanana tiramisu for dessert. L, D (daily). 1917 India St., Little Italy, 619.238.1917 Map P15 BENCOTTO > Italian $$$ 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 BORN & RAISED > Steak $$$$ Glam fine-dining steakhouse is all about the beef. Feast on filets, porterhouses, rib-eyes, dry-aged cuts, American and Japanese wagyu, and slow-roasted prime rib, as well as roasted chicken and a daily whole fish preparation. Plus: classic cocktails and 300-plus bottles of scotch. D (nightly). 1909 India St., Little Italy, 619.202.4577 Map P15 BUON APPETITO > Italian $$$ Sample rustic 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 (V) CIVICO 1845 > Italian $$ Contemporary Italian bistro features a warm decor clad with reclaimed wood, a patio, handmade pastas and traditional entrees; plus a separate all-vegan menu. L, D (daily). 1845 India St., Little Italy, 619.431.5990 Map P15 THE CRACK SHACK > California $$ This hip outdoor eatery serves all-day chicken and egg dishes; plus a full bar and bocce court.

B, L, D (daily). 2266 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.795.3299. Map P15 CRAFT & COMMERCE > Gastropub $$$ Sip inventive craft cocktails at its taxidermy-adorned main bar or in its speakeasy-style tiki lounge, False Idol; or nosh on refined gastropub fare such as four-piece fried chicken in its cozy-chic library. D (nightly), L (Sa-Su). 675 W. Beech St., Little Italy, 619.269.2202 Map P15 DAVANTI ENOTECA Lively hotspot serves rustic Italian shareable plates like mascarpone polenta, plus pastas,

pastas and entrees like whole-roasted branzino, and semifreddo for dessert. L, D (daily). 7863 Girard Ave., #301, La Jolla, 858.551.5105 Map W19 THE COTTAGE > Breakfast $$ Dine in a charming turn-of-the-century home with a quaint garden patio. Try the stuffed brioche French toast; plus sandwiches, salads and burgers. B, L (daily); D (Tu-Sa). 7702 Fay Ave., La Jolla, 858.454.8409 Map W19 CUSP DINING & DRINKS > California $$$ Head 11 stories up at Hotel La Jolla for Med-Cali 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

IRONSIDE FISH & OYSTER > Seafood $$$$ 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

DUKE’S LA JOLLA > Seafood $$$ The Hawaii-based chain is known for its seasonal, fresh fish and seafood, choice steaks, tropical cocktails, vibrant atmosphere and views overlooking La Jolla Cove. Save room for Kimo’s Hula Pie. L, D (daily); B (Sa-Su). 1216 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.5888 Map W19

ISOLA PIZZA BAR > Italian $$$ Casually elegant restaurant and bar featuring a romantic back patio, sidewalk patio and hand-tossed 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

EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD > Seafood $$$$ Find classics like shrimp cocktail, crab cakes and lobster bisque; plus 28-day-aged prime steaks. Enjoy views of the cove and live jazz nightly in the lounge.

D (nightly), L (F-Su). 1270 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.459.5500 Map W19

JUNIPER & IVY > California $$$$ Top Chef star Richard Blais oversees the modern CaliAmerican 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

FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE > Steak $$$$ Upscale steakhouse with prime steaks, seafood, classic desserts and an acclaimed wine list. D (nightly). 8970 University Center Lane, La Jolla, 858.535.0078, Map T21; 380 K St., Gaslamp, 619.237.1155 Map Q16

KETTNER EXCHANGE > American $$$$ Little Italy hotspot offers progressive dishes such as big-eye tuna pizza and gluten-free gnocchi. Downstairs is a sumptuous space with a two-way fireplace; upstairs is a chic rooftop lounge. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 2001 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.255.2001 Map P15 M WINEHOUSE > Wine Bar $$ Enjoy international wines, beers, sake and bubbly at this quaint nook. Plus happy hour specials (M-F), bottomless mimosas (noon-2 p.m. Sa and Su) and other specials. To eat: cheese, charcuterie plates and dessert. 3 p.m.-1 a.m. (daily). 1918 India St., Little Italy, 619.546.4226 Map P15 MONELLO > Italian $$$ The vibe is casual-glam, focusing on Milanese street food—pizzas, flatbreads, gelato and a daily aperitivo from 4-7 p.m. L (Tu-F); D (Tu-Su); Br (Sa-Su). 750 W. Fir St., Little Italy, 619.501.0030 Map P15 PREP KITCHEN LITTLE ITALY > California $$$ Its stylish second-story locale makes for a fab alternative to the area’s Italian eateries. Specials include the farmers market flatbread and scallops. D (nightly), L (M-F), Br (SaSu). 1660 India St., Little Italy, 619.398.8383 Map P15 QUEENSTOWN PUBLIC HOUSE > New Zealand $$ 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

LA JOLLA BROCKTON VILLA > American $$ An 1894 cottage with a spectacular ocean view. Try the Coast Toast, a French toast soufflé from the breakfast menu. B, L, D (daily). 1235 Coast Blvd., La Jolla, 858.454.7393 Map W19 CATANIA COASTAL ITALIAN > Italian $$$ Enjoy coastal Italian fare and 180-degree ocean views.

The menu features salads, small plates, wood-fired pizzas,

GEORGE’S AT THE COVE > California $$$$ La Jolla institution comprises three levels (from elegant to casual) of ocean views. Chef Trey Foshee creates seafood, steak and regional dishes. Mid-level bar is a fun happy hour spot. L, D (daily). 1250 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.4244 Map W19 HERRINGBONE > American $$$$ Expect farm-to-sea dishes, craft cocktails and 100-yearold olive trees inside this refined warehouse-style space. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 7837 Herschel Ave., La Jolla, 858.459.0221 Map W19 JAVIER’S > Mexican $$$$ Mexican fine dining with a resort-style ambiance—water features, lush greenery and stylish patrons sipping margaritas. Try the shrimp enchiladas and carnitas plate; plus rare tequilas and craft cocktails. L,D (daily). 4301 La Jolla Village Drive, 858.200.2222 Map T21 MARINE ROOM > California $$$$ Outstanding nouveau French-infused California cuisine such as crispy skin salmon by chef Bernard Guillas in an unparalleled oceanfront location. D (nightly). 2000 Spindrift Drive, La Jolla, 858.459.7222 Map W20 THE MED > American $$$ La Valencia’s Mediterranean-villa-style eatery features locally sourced, sustainable dishes such as bacon-wrapped trout, an ocean-view terrace and live music five days a week. B, Br, L, D (daily). 1132 Prospect St., La Jolla, 855.818.6887 Map W19 NINE-TEN > California $$$ Award-winning chef Jason Knibb creates evolving cuisine from local, organic ingredients. The Jamaican jerk pork belly appetizer and the braised short rib entree are highlights. B, L, D (daily). 910 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.964.5400 Map V19 PIATTI > Italian $$$ Delicious pastas, pizzas 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

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DINING

voteD best seafood

PUESTO > Mexican $$ 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 high-end tequilas and mezcals. L, D (daily). 1026 Wall St., La Jolla, 858.454.1260 Map W19

built in 1887 next to the hotel del coronado

RED O RESTAURANT > Mexican $$$$ Fronted by celeb chef Rick Bayless, this upscale Mexican bistro and tequila lounge features gourmet, modern twists on traditional Cali-Mex fare, plus a generous patio and extensive spirits list. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 4340 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla, 858.291.8360 Map T21 RICHARD WALKER’S PANCAKE HOUSE > Breakfast $ Family owned and operated institution offers a huge selection of flapjacks and gourmet breakfast and lunch fare. We love the oven-baked omelets and crepes. B, L (daily). 909 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.459.8800 Map W19 WE OLIVE > Wine Bar $$ Olive oil tasting room also includes coastal-view wine bar featuring California wines and tastings of gourmet food items, specialty gifts, cheese plates and other light bites, and wines by the glass. L, D (daily). 1158 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.551.8250 Map W19

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

WHISKNLADLE > California $$$ Chef Ryan Johnston uses local ingredients in dishes like roasted bone marrow and chorizo-date fritters. Plus, a trendy bar/lounge with craft cocktails. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1044 Wall St., La Jolla, 858.551.7575 Map W19

MISSION BAY/BEACHES BO-BEAU KITCHEN + BAR > French $$$ Classic French dishes (boeuf bourguignon)—along with craft cocktails and French wines—are served in a cozy and inviting bohemian atmosphere. D (nightly). 4996 W. Point Loma Blvd., Ocean Beach, 619.224.2884 Map J8 THE FRENCH GOURMET > French $$ This quaint restaurant, bakery and wine shop serves entrees such as duck confit, rack of lamb and vegetarian ratatouille. Or opt for to-go sandwiches, cheese, charcuterie and desserts. B, L (daily); D (Tu-Sa). 960 Turquoise St., Pacific Beach, 858.488.1725 Map H8 HODAD’S > Burgers $$ Renowned burger joint with fresh toppings, huge portions, onion rings, milkshakes and microbrews on tap. Try the double bacon cheeseburger if you dare. L, D (daily). 5010 Newport Ave., Ocean Beach, 619.224.4623 Map J8 ISABEL’S CANTINA > Breakfast $$ This cool, casual spot serves health-conscious, boldflavored Latin and Asian-influenced fare. For breakfast, try the soy-chorizo scramble or blackberry-banana pancakes.

B, L (daily); D (Th-Sa). 966 Felspar St., Pacific Beach, 858.272.8400 Map H7

Lotus Thai

JRDN > California $$$ 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 peoplewatching. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 723 Felspar St., Pacific Beach, 858.270.5736 Map H7

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.

RESERVE NOW

LOTUSTHAISD.COM 2 prime locations

DOWNTOWN 906 Market St. 92101 HILLCREST 3761 6th Ave. 92103

MISS B’S COCONUT CLUB > California $$ This laid-back hangout features an open-air bar, Caribbean-inspired fare and tropical cocktails. Try the curried coconut mussels and the jerk-rubbed chicken wings. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 3704 Mission Blvd., Mission Beach, 858.381.0855. $$ Map H7 PUEBLO > Mexican $$$ Upscale restaurant/bar two blocks from the ocean features a rooftop deck, modern Baja-style dishes and seafood. Menu changes often to include the freshest catches and seasonal produce. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 877 Hornblend St., Pacific Beach, 858.412.3312. Map H8

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DINING house-made chowders and an oyster bar. Bluewater 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 LEROY’S KITCHEN & LOUNGE > California $$ Recognized for its farm-to-table fare, plus seafood, meat and pasta dishes. Favorites include miso-glazed swordfish and wild boar bolognese. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (SaSu). 1015 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.6087 Map L11 LOBSTER WEST > Seafood $$ Quaint, fast-casual eatery serves fresh Maine lobster rolls, crab rolls, shrimp rolls, lobster bisque, clam chowder and salads. Beer and wine to drink. L, D (daily).

1033 B Ave., #102, Coronado, 619.675.0002 Map L10

Lionfish’s chic rooftop, p. 36

HARBOR/SHELTER/POINT LOMA BALI HAI > Polynesian $$$ Tiki oasis features Korean barbecue ribs and wok-fried whole striped bass, plus fabulous bay views and the most potent mai tais in town. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). 2230 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.222.1181. $$$ Map K9 COASTERRA > Mexican $$$ The stars are its massive waterfront dining deck and regional Mexican cuisine. Bar offers more than 100 tequilas and mezcal infusions. L, D (daily). 880 Harbor Island Drive, Harbor Island, 619.814.1300 Map J10 HUMPHREYS RESTAURANT > Seafood $$$ Yacht-club views and seafood, such as sauteed Georges Bank scallops and pepper-crusted king salmon. Sunday brunch is spectacular, with carving stations and freeflowing bubbly. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). 2241 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.224.3577 Map K8 ISLAND PRIME > Steak $$$ Chef Deborah Scott’s famed steakhouse boasts premium cuts, seafood, salads, cocktails, and bay and skyline views.

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 JIMMY’S TAVERN > American $$ Spicy California cheeseburgers and specialty cocktails served in a fun, casual bayside venue; outdoor patio offers great marina views. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 4990 N. Harbor Drive, Point Loma, 619.226.2103 Map K9 OFFICINE BUONA FORCHETTA > Italian $$ Feast on 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 > Italian $$$ Local favorite boasts candlelit atmosphere and romantic courtyard, white-on-white decor and classic Italian cuisine with Mediterranean flavors. Enjoy dishes like the spicy Roma shrimp and chicken picatta. L (M–Sa), D (nightly). 2910 Canon St., Point Loma, 619.222.5888 Map K8 SLATER’S 50/50 > Burgers $$ Design your own gourmet burger, or choose from one of 10 specialty burgers. Signature patty is the 50/50 with ground beef and bacon. Plus craft beer and fun cocktails.

L, D (daily). 2750 Dewey Road, #193, Point Loma, 619.398.2600 Map J9

CORONADO BLUEWATER BOATHOUSE > Seafood $$$ Classic fish house features fresh, sustainable seafood,

MARETALIA > Italian $$$ Modern coastal Italian menu offers local seafood, housemade pastas, filet mignon and shareable plates such as lobster-stuffed squash blossoms, and fig and goat cheese bruschetta. L,D (daily), Br (Sa-Su). 1300 Orange Ave., #200, Coronado, 619.522.0946 Map L10 PEOHE’S > Pacific Rim $$$ 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 STAKE CHOPHOUSE & BAR > Steak $$$$ 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. Service includes selecting your own steak knife tableside. D (nightly). 1309 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.522.0077 Map L10

DEL MAR/RANCHO SANTA FE ADDISON > French $$$$ Executive Chef William Bradley creates elegant dishes from local ingredients at this ultra-fine-dining restaurant at Fairmont Grand Del Mar. It’s the only AAA Five Diamond Restaurant and Forbes Five-Star Restaurant in SoCal, and has San Diego’s only Michelin Star. D (Tu-Sa). 5200 Grand Del Mar Way, Del Mar, 858.314.1900 Map X22 THE BRIGANTINE > Seafood $$$ Popular chain with a fun happy hour, steaks and chops is known for its fish tacos, swordfish, and oyster bar. The Del Mar locale is our favorite. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 3263 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.481.1166. Map X22 CUCINA ENOTECA > Italian $$$ Located at Flower Hill Promenade, the stylish eatery features a rooftop patio and a Cali-Italian menu with antipasti, salads, pastas and artisanal pizzas; plus a retail wine shop. L (Tu-Su), D (nightly). 2730 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.704.4500 Map X22 DEL MAR RENDEZVOUS > Chinese $$ Upscale Chinese bistro features Mongolian rack of lamb and steak Shangri-La, plus steamed dumplings and sauces made in-house. L (M-Sa), D (nightly). 1555 Camino Del Mar, #102, Del Mar, 858.755.2669 Map X22 EN FUEGO > Mexican $$$ Lively restaurant and bar with traditional dishes such as empanadas, tamales and seafood; plus mojitos and margaritas. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1342 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.6551 Map X22 MARKET RESTAURANT + BAR > California $$$$ 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 MILLE FLEURS > French $$$$ Bertrand Hug’s romantic, fine-dining restaurant is a clas-

sic date spot. The cuisine is creative, updated French/ California (think: Berkshire pork chops with sweet potato gnocchi and Snake River Farm prime filet); plus an outstanding wine list. L (Th–F), D (nightly). 6009 Paseo ­Delicias, Rancho Santa Fe, 858.756.3085 Map W23 PACIFICA DEL MAR > Seafood $$$ Upscale, ocean-view spot attracts a power crowd with mustard catfish and sugar-spiced salmon. Visit the vodka bar with 160-plus selections. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.0476 Map X22 PAMPLEMOUSSE GRILLE > French $$$$ Chef ­Jeffrey Strauss presents a country-French–influenced American menu in an intimate spot 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 POSEIDON RESTAURANT > Seafood $$$ Its beachfront deck offers unrivaled views. Dinner entrees such as lemon pepper-crusted 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

NORTH COASTAL BEACH GRASS CAFE > Breakfast $$ Breezy, casual-chic eatery by the beach serves up a health-conscious menu of granola, flapjacks, omelets, scrambles, salads and more. B, L, D (daily). 159 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Solana Beach, 858.509.0632 Map X22 BLUE OCEAN ROBATA & SUSHI BAR > Japanese $$$ Modern design meets Japanese cuisine. Yakitori-skewered proteins and veggies are charcoal-fired on a robata grill; plus sushi, small plates and Japanese whiskey.

L (M-Sa), D (nightly). 2958 Madison St., Carlsbad, 760.434.4959 Map T22 BLUEWATER GRILL > Seafood $$ Classic fish house features sustainable seafood, housemade chowders and an oyster bar. L, D (daily). 417 Carlsbad Village Drive, Carlsbad, 760.730.3474 Map T22 CAMPFIRE > American $$$ 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 CHART HOUSE > Seafood $$$ Seafood and steakhouse has picturesque coastline location with floor-to-ceiling windows. Indulge in hot chocolate lava cake for dessert. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 2588 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, 760.436.4044 Map W22 CRAFTSMAN TAVERN > American $$ 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 THE FLYING PIG PUB & KITCHEN > California $$$ This foodie-loved restaurant features handmade pasta, organic salads and Duroc pork belly. D (nightly). 626 S. Tremont St., Oceanside, 760.453.2940 Map S22 THE FISH MARKET > Seafood $$$ Casual dining includes fresh local seafood, sushi and an oyster bar. Upstairs: fine dining and an expanded wine list at Top of the Market. L, D (daily). 640 Via de la Valle, Solana Beach, 858.755.2277 Map W22 HARNEY SUSHI > Sushi $$$ Find sushi and specialty rolls with a molecular gastronomy twist at this groovy local mini-chain, where live DJs spin nightly. L (M-F), D (nightly). 301 Mission Ave., Oceanside, 760.967.1820. $$ Map S22

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DINE_W

SPECIAL PROMOTION

MENU HIGHLIGHTS Starters Lil’ Brgs (made with wagyu beef) Beef Tartare Seared Day Boat Scallops

STK STEAKHOUSE STK Steakhouse is “not your daddy’s steakhouse,” offering a highenergy dining experience that artfully combines the superior quality of a traditional steakhouse with a vibe dining atmosphere unlike any other. Delectable cuisine, upscale cocktails and an elevated Happy Hour—along with an in-house DJ and chic décor—all come together to offer a memorable fine-dining experience that keeps guests enjoying their evening from drinks to dinner to dancing. STK’s menu features reimagined classic American cuisine for lunch and dinner, with unique local flair infused into each location’s menu. Signature dishes include an array of the finest cuts of steak; along with items such as bite-sized Lil’ Brgs made with Wagyu beef, Lobster Mac & Cheese and opulent seafood towers. D (Daily), Br (Sa, Su)

Raw Bar Oysters on the Half Shell Daily Ceviche Half Chilled Lobster Seafood Platters (served family style) Steaks + Other Entrees Dry-Aged Tomahawk A5 Japanese Wagyu Braised Beed Short Rib Market Fish Sides Lobster Mac & Cheese Jalapeño Cheddar Grits Exotic Mushrooms Desserts S’mores Party in a Cup Bag O’ Donuts Vanilla Cheesecake

STK San Diego, 600 F St, San Diego, CA 92101

619.354.5988 STKsteakhouse.com

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DINING LOBSTER WEST > Seafood $$ Quaint, fast-casual eatery serves fresh Maine lobster rolls, crab rolls, shrimp rolls, lobster bisque, clam chowder and salads. Beer and wine to drink. L, D (daily). 890 Palomar Airport Road, Carlsbad, Map T22; 765 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.634.1684 Map V22 PACIFIC COAST GRILL > Seafood $$$ Popular North County spot 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 PARK 101 > American $$ This bi-level, outdoor community hangout offers barbecue, burritos, cocktails, and more; plus games, picnic tables and a rooftop deck. L, D (daily); Br (F-Su). 3040 Carlsbad Blvd., Carlsbad, 760.434.2217 Map T22 Q’ERO RESTAURANT > Peruvian $$ 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 RICHARD WALKER’S PANCAKE HOUSE > Breakfast $ The family-owned eatery offers a huge selection of mouthwatering flapjacks and gourmet breakfast and lunch fare. Try the oven-baked omelets and crepes. B, L (daily). 2656 Gateway Road, Carlsbad, 760.893.8400 Map T2 TRATTORIA I TRULLI > Italian $$ Superb pastas and sauces in a rustic setting featuring 100 wines; plus creme brulee. L, D (daily). 830 S. Coast Hwy. 101, #100, Encinitas, 760.943.6800 Map V22 VIGILUCCI’S CUCINA ITALIANA > Italian $$$ 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). 2943 State St., Carlsbad, 760.434.2500 Map T22 VIGILUCCI’S SEAFOOD & STEAKHOUSE > Steak $$$ Italian-influenced chophouse with beach views features steaks, chicken, veal, fresh catches, salads and pastas such as the classic capellini checca. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 3878 Carlsbad Blvd., Carlsbad, 760.434.2580 Map T22 VIGILUCCI’S TRATTORIA ITALIANA > Italian $$$ This quaint Italian eatery is known for its homemade pasta dishes, prime steaks, fresh seafood and pizzas— featuring an authentic Florentine wood-burning brick oven. L, D (daily). 530 N. Coast Hwy. 101, Leucadia, 760.634.2365 Map V2 VIVACE > Italian $$$$ 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

UPTOWN ALEXANDER’S > Italian $$ Romantic neighborhood eatery known for its darling back patio, white-on-white decor, traditional pasta dishes and its White Room pizza with chicken and pesto. D (nightly). 3391 30th St., North Park, 619.281.2539 Map J12 ARRIVEDERCI > Italian $$ A Hillcrest staple with sidewalk seating, serving pastas, sandwiches, pizzas, salads and wine. L, D (daily). 3845 Fourth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.299.6282 Map N16 AZUKI SUSHI > Japanese $$$ Seemingly a hole in the wall from the street, but inside lies a charming eatery and sushi bar with an airy back patio.

Excellent sushi and specialty rolls. L (M-F), D (nightly). 2321 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.238.4760 Map O16

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DINING BANKERS HILL BAR & RESTAURANT > American $$$ Mismatched antique chairs decorate this casual spot with an urban-industrial vibe. A seasonal menu includes braised pork tacos, an excellent burger and their famous truffle fries. D (nightly), Br (Su). 2202 Fourth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.231.0222 Map O16 BARRIO STAR > Latin $$ Trendy eatery serves up healthful Latin Americaninfluenced dishes with organic, local ingredients—including tacos, bowls with “power rice,” tortilla soup and chipotle chicken wings; plus, margarita tasting flights.

L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 2706 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.501.7827 Map O16 BLEU BOHEME > French $$$ Candleit bistro and wine bar is known for its traditional French fare—including moules frites, croque monsieur, coq au vin and boeuf bourguignon. D (nightly). 4090 Adams Ave., Kensington, 619.255.4167 Map I12 BUONA FORCHETTA > Italian $$ The wood-fired oven named “Sofia” takes center stage at this busy eatery known for its traditional Neapolitan pizzas, house-made pastas and tiramisu. L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 3001 Beech St., South Park, 619.381.4844 Map K12 COUNTERPOINT > Wine Bar $$ Neighborhood wine bar serves artisanal cheeses, salads, a burger, seasonal entrees, weekend brunch, craft beer, international wines and custom cocktails.

Br (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 830 25th St., Golden Hill, 619.564.6722 Map Q18 CUCINA URBANA > Italian $$$ Crowded hotspot features house-made pastas, pizzas, farm-to-table dishes, house-infused cocktails and a wine shop. L (Tu-F), D (nightly). 505 Laurel St., Bankers Hill, 619.239.2222 Map O16

Discover Southern California's Oldest Winery HERE IN SAN DIEGO

GREAT MAPLE > California $$ This upscale “diner” serves comfort food and cocktails.

Choose from salads, sandwiches, seafood, pastas, 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 HASH HOUSE A GO GO > Breakfast $$ Huge portions of “twisted farm food” including egg scrambles, hashes and more. Housed in a rustic-urban bungalow with a quaint back patio. B, L (daily); D (TuSu). 3628 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.298.4646 Map N16 LOTUS THAI > Thai $$ Elegant bamboo decor and modern Thai cuisine, with authentic dishes from Bangkok, Chiang Mai and northern Thailand. Specialties include choo chee fish curry and roasted half-duck curry. L (M-F), D (nightly). 3761 Sixth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.299.8272 Map N16 LOUISIANA PURCHASE > American $$ New Orleans-inspired cuisine by chef Quinnton Austin—Alligator Andouille Cheesecake, gumbo, sweet potato cornbread and Southern-inspired libations. D (W-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 2305 University Ave., North Park, 619.255.8278 Map J12 MADISON > California $$$ Nosh on SoCal-Med cuisine inside a cedar-walled space with vaulted ceilings; plus a bar/lounge with unique cocktails. D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 4622 Park Blvd., University Heights, 619.269.6566 Map M17

WINE TASTING DAILY SHOPPING VILLAGE OPEN DAILY LIVE MUSIC SUNDAYS 2-5 FARMER'S MARKET FRIDAYS 9-1 OPEN FRI & SAT NIGHTS TIL 9

SHOPPING

RUSTIC ITALIAN DINING

DINING

KITCHEN HOURS TUESDAY-SUNDAY RESERVATIONS 858-487-1866 EXT 125 DINNER HOURS FRI & SAT NIGHTS BRUNCH SUNDAYS 9-12

WWW.BERNARDOWINERY.COM

MISTER A’S > American $$$$ Incredible 12th-floor, bird’s-eye views and romantic ambiance complemented by seasonal ingredients. Appetizers range from mac ‘n’ cheese to pan-seared scallops, plus an outstanding wine list. L (M–F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 2550 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.239.1377 Map O16 PARC BISTRO-BRASSERIE > French $$$ Dine on exceptional, refined French dishes and seafood

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DINING inside this elegant neighborhood bistro that blends OldWorld charm with contemporary touches. Standouts include the escargot and duck confit. L, D (daily); Br (SaSu). 2760 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.795.150 Map P16 THE PRADO > International $$$ Its dramatic garden patio is lovely, and the eclectic American menu is spiked with Latin/Italian flair. Try the lobster bucatini and the chicken and gnocchi dumplings with bacon. L (daily), D (Tu-Su). 1549 El Prado, House of Hospitality, Balboa Park, 619.557.9441 Map O17 (V) PLUMERIA > Thai $$ Enjoy vegetarian renditions of Thai dishes, from curries to noodles. The eatery uses organic non-GMO and glutenfree tofu. L, D (daily). 4661 Park Blvd., University Heights, 619.269.9989 Map M18 THE ROSE > Wine Bar $$ A restored 1927 building, made of reclaimed redwood from a historical South Park home, this intimate neighborhood wine bar also offers craft beer, light bites and wine storage. 2219 30th St., South Park, 619.280.1815 Map J12 THE SMOKING GOAT > French $$$ This cozy neighborhood bistro serves up French and American cuisine with a countryside flair. Try the Berkshire pork chop, steak frites and its duck-fat truffle fries. D (TuSu). 3408 30th St., North Park, 619.955.5295 Map J12 SNOOZE, AN A.M. EATERY > Breakfast $$ This bright, energetic joint features breakfast and brunch faves like eggs Benedict, pancakes, French toast, cocktails, a fun coffee menu and a breakfast pot pie. B, L (daily). 3940 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.500.3344 Map N16 STARLITE > California $$ Dazzling decor and a cool back patio complement sustainably farmed food at this hip den. 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 > California $$ Laid-back gastropub features 100 international beers; a 30-tap system pouring West Coast craft brews; and dishes such as the grilled tri-tip sandwich. D (nightly), Br (SaSu). 3794 30th St., North Park, 619.255.8778 Map J12 THE WINE LOVER > Wine Bar $$ Parisian-inspired wine shop and bar features a patio, international wines, gourmet cheeses and imported olives. L (Tu-Su), D (nightly). 3968 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.294.9200 Map N16 WINE VAULT & BISTRO > Wine Bar $$ Romantic bistro serves five-course, set-menu wine dinners every Saturday evening. Food ranges from Italian to French to California. Excellent boutique wines. D (Th-Sa). 3731-A India St., Mission Hills, 619.295.3939 Map N14

# L ove S o C a l

WHERE TO EAT WHERE TO SHOP WHERE TO GO

OLD TOWN/BAY PARK CAFE COYOTE > Mexican $$ Choose from more than 100 tequilas in your margarita to wash down its authentic Mexican fare. We love the enchiladas suizas and tortillas. B, L, D (daily). 2461 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.291.4695 Map M14 CASA GUADALAJARA > Mexican $$ Bazaar del Mundo’s award-winning Mexican restaurant and cantina features a colorful outdoor patio, giant margaritas, 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 HARNEY SUSHI > Sushi $$$ Find award-winning sushi and specialty rolls with a molecular gastronomy twist at this groovy local minichain, where live DJs spin nightly. L (M-F), D (nightly). 3964 Harney St., Old Town, 619.295.3272 Map J10

LO S A N G E L E S • O R A N G E CO U N T Y • SA N D I E G O

S CALPULSE DISCOVER THE BEAT OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

S O C A L P U L S E .CO M

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DINING JACK & GIULIO’S > Italian $$ Known for its scampi, spaghetti and meatballs, and other traditional dishes, this Old Town Italian spot is a locals’ favorite. Excellent wines for pairing. D (nightly). 2391 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.294.2074 Map N14 LUCE BAR & KITCHEN > Gastropub $$ Cozy neighborhood hang features seasonal small plates, cheese and meat boards, artisanal pizzas and a signature burger. Plus, California-focused wine list, European beers and a daily happy hour 3-6 p.m. L, D (daily); Br (SaSu) 1959 Morena Blvd., Bay Park, 619.275.0321 Map I10 MIGUEL’S COCINA > Mexican $$ Family-owned chain boasts five San Diego locations, but the Old Town outpost is our favorite. We love the fried chimichanga, pollo asado burrito and seriously addictive queso dip. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 2444 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.298.9840 Map N13 OLD TOWN MEXICAN CAFE > Mexican $$ 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 TAHONA > Mexican $$$ This modern Mexican restaurant and mezcal bar boasts 120-plus different mezcals. The food menu centers on Oaxacan-inspired seasonal dishes, such as slow-braised beef in a banana leaf, grilled octopus and pork belly mole, and squash blossom tacos. D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 2414 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.255.2090 Map N14

MISSION VALLEY/KEARNY MESA BIBIGO KITCHEN > Korean $$ This new fine-casual outpost at Fashion Valley Mall serves modern, Korean-inspired cuisine with an emphasis on Korean grill, small plates and mandu (Korean-style dumplings). L, D (daily). 7007 Friars Road, #357B, Fashion Valley, 619.419.2150 Map M16 DUMPLING INN > Chinese $$ Find some of the finest Chinese cuisine in the city here.

Menu standouts include the kung pao sea bass, shrimp chow mein, Szechuan pork and deep-fried beef-curry dumplings; plus a full bar. L, D (Tu-Su). 4625 Convoy St., Kearny Mesa, 858.268.9638 Map R16

Live Music Every Weekend Great Views of Downtown Shopping for the Whole Family

JASMINE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT > Chinese $$ Casual, spacious spot is known for its rotating carts of dim sum, Hong Kong-style seafood, Peking duck and barbecue entrees. L, D (daily). 4609 Convoy St., Kearny Mesa, 858.268.0888 Map G11

For more visitor & event info visit: coronadoferrylanding.com

SHAN XI MAGIC KITCHEN > Chinese $$ Dine on authentic Chinese dishes, barbecue meats, handmade noodles and dumplings inside this bustling, modern eatery. L, D (daily). 4344 Convoy St., Kearny Mesa, 858.565.2688 Map G11

1201 1st Street Coronado, CA 92118

SO SUSHI LOUNGE > Japanese $$

CFL_SP19.indd 1

1/11/19 4:33 PM Valley Mall’s stylish eatery features signature Fashion

sushi rolls and tapas-style Japanese dishes in a modern dining environment; plus wine, beer and sake. L, D (daily). 7007 Friars Road, #336, Fashion Valley, 619.291.7711 Map M16

Santa Fe Omelette

CARLSBAD, DOWNTOWN SD & LA JOLLA Breakfast and Lunch served 7 days a week 6:30 AM - 2:30 PM

richardwalkers.com

STACKED > Burgers $$ “Food Well Built” is the slogan here. Order your meal via an iPad at every table, and customize your own burger, sandwich, pizza, salad, mac ’n’ cheese, milkshake and more. Plus, a full cocktail bar. L, D (daily). 7007 Friars Road, #356, Fashion Valley, 619.225.7900 Map M16

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SDDINING MILLE FLEURS Restaurateur Bertrand Hug’s iconic and so charming finedining destination infuses classic French dishes with seasonal, farm-to-table ingredients. Step inside a culinary oasis that channels an elegant country home, entering thru a beautiful and quaint patio, a piano bar and private rooms. Executive Chef Sean McCart is a master of impeccably crafted plates in which simple flavors shine, indulge in a five-course tasting menu or sample their bistro menu sitting in the friendly Fountain Room overlooking the beautiful patio. Specialty cocktails, an outstanding wine list and decadent desserts complete the experience at this award-winning, locally beloved restaurant. L (Th-F), D (nightly).

6009 Paseo Delicias, Rancho Santa Fe 858.756.3085 • millefleurs.com

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

PUEBLO Nestled just one block from the beach is this stunning, chef-driven restaurant and bar which was voted “Best New Restaurant” and “Best Mexican Restaurant” in 2017 by Beach and Bay Press. Pueblo marries the freshest seafood and seasonal, regional produce with traditional preparations and Mexican spices to create its’ coastal Baja cuisine. Expect sea fare such as aguachile shrimp, a chef’s nightly filet of fish and a daily whole fish preparation. Carnivores will love plates such as the savory rabbit tostada and duck confit tacos. Enjoy nightly happy hour with a selection of specialty margaritas and other craft libations made from house-infused liquors and freshpressed juices; plus local and Baja beers and wines. L, D (daily)

877 Hornblend St., Pacific Beach 858.412.3312 • pueblopb.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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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 house-made 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

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

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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THE GUIDE / ENTERTAINMENT FESTIVALS + SPECIAL EVENTS

SKATING BY THE SEA Through Jan. 5. See Hotel del Coronado’s Windsor Lawn transform into an outdoor ice-skating rink that overlooks the beach and Pacific Ocean. Hotel del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado, hoteldel.com/skating. Map L10 RADY CHILDREN’S ICE RINK Through Jan. 5. Celebrate the holiday season by lacing up your skates and gliding away at this outdoor ice rink located at Liberty Station. 2640 Historic Decatur Road, Point Loma, 619.222.1970, radyfoundation.org/icerink. Map J9

Urban Oasis Theatre Box—home to a luxury cineplex and Sugar Factory restaurant—has unveiled its latest addition: 5th & Sky Rooftop Gardens & Lounge.

The rooftop retreat is one part Japanese-style garden—with cherry blossom trees, lush greenery, fire pits and a handpainted mural by artist Kahori Maki—one part craft cocktail bar and one part restaurant.

Take in sweeping views of the surrounding downtown skyline while sampling sushi and dishes such as the 5th & Sky burger, green shrimp ceviche tostadas, and crispy pork belly and citrus-marinated watermelon pops. Come for Golden Hour—featuring $7 cocktails (try the spicy margarita) from 4 to 6 p.m. daily—and stay until after sundown to watch the city lights begin to glow, with DJs spinning Thursday-Sunday nights. 701 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, theatrebox.com/5th-sky

BALBOA PARK DECEMBER NIGHTS Dec. 6-7.

Experience this 42nd annual two-day holiday blowout, which features carolers, live music, holiday light displays and more festivities. Plus, many museums 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. 6, 6 p.m. Be a part of the 44th 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. 6-22 (City Ballet) and Dec. 13-24 (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, cityballet.org, Map Q16; Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, californiaballet.org. Map Q16 56TH ANNUAL NORTH PARK TOYLAND PARADE Dec. 8, 11 a.m. Parade features a slew of celebrations, plus beauty queens, dance groups, vintage cars, bands and floats. University Avenue, North Park, explorenorthpark.com. Map J12 LA JOLLA CHRISTMAS PARADE AND HOLIDAY FESTIVAL Dec. 8, 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, La Jolla, ljparade.com. Map W19 SAN DIEGO BAY PARADE OF LIGHTS Dec. 8 and 15, 5 p.m. See San Diego Bay twinkle with more than 100 private sailboats and yachts all decked out with holiday lights for a festive night on the water. Downtown, sdparadeoflights.org. Map Q15 OLD TOWN LAS POSADAS Dec. 14, 12-8 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—a centuries-old tradition in which actors reenact 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 MISSION BAY CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE OF LIGHTS Dec. 14. More than 100 illuminated vessels will 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

Guidelines Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps on pages 60-63. The compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.

Index Festivals + Events ......... 48 Museums....................... 53 Theater........................... 50 Destination Shopping... 55 Music + Dance............... 51 Nightlife.......................... 56 Attractions..................... 52 Explore........................... 57

GASLAMP HOLIDAY PET PARADE Dec. 15, 12-5 p.m. It’s a fabulous holiday fete for the pets! Pooches will dress up as Santa, elves, reindeer and everything in between and march down the festive streets of the Gaslamp Quarter (2 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 PORT OF SAN DIEGO HOLIDAY BOWL PARADE Dec. 26, 3 p.m. Gaze at the massive balloons at this 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. 27, 5 p.m. See who wins this epic battle of college football heavyweights. SDCCU Stadium, 9449 Friars Road, Mission Valley, holidaybowl.com. Map I12 SAN DIEGO INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW Jan. 1-5. Check out hundreds of model-year vehicles, plus preview the cars and trucks of tomorrow, at this annual event “where the cars are the stars.” San Diego Convention Center, 111 W. Harbor Drive, downtown, sdautoshow.com. Map R16 MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY PARADE Jan. 19, 2 p.m. Celebrate the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. at this 40th annual waterfront parade along San Diego Bay. Enjoy an afternoon of bands, floats and drill teams as they march along Harbor Drive. Downtown, alpha-zsl.org/mlkdayparade. Map Q16 SAN DIEGO RESTAURANT WEEK Jan. 19-26.

Enjoy fabulous dining for less when over 180 restaurants throughout the county offer prix-fixe, threecourse meals. Visit website for participating restaurants. sandiegorestaurantweek.com.

FARMERS INSURANCE OPEN Jan. 23-26. San Diego’s most anticipated pro golf tournament has featured legends such as Tiger Woods (2013 champ) and beloved local superstar Phil Mickelson. The action-packed week includes practice rounds for PGA Tour players, pro-am tournaments, women’s and men’s days, a junior clinic, military appreciation activities and celebrity afterparties. Torrey Pines Golf Course, 11480 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, farmersinsuranceopen.com. Map S19 SAN DIEGO BLACK FILM FESTIVAL Jan. 29-Feb. 2. Catch dozens of 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. Plus, celebrity appearances, filmmaker panels and parties. Theatre Box, 701 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, sdbff.com. Map Q16

> 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

COURTESY THEATRE BOX

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, before returning north in the spring. Take in the spectacle via a whale-watching tour along San Diego’s 70 miles of coastline directly in the migration path; Hornblower Cruises offers one of the city’s more popular excursions. hornblower.com.

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IMMERSE YOURSELF OPENING DECEMBER 2019

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ENTERTAINMENT SAN DIEGO MUSEUM MONTH Feb. 1-29. Access more than 40 of San Diego’s top museums all month long for half-off admission, including local favorites such as Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, Maritime Museum, Birch Aquarium at Scripps and several museums at Balboa Park. Pick up passes at San Diego libraries. Various locations, sandiegomuseumcouncil.org.

CHINESE NEW YEAR FAIR Feb. 8-9, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Celebrate the Year of the Rat 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 Ave. and J St., downtown, sdcny.org. Map Q16 SAN DIEGO JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL Feb. 13-23.

The 30th annual film festival explores Jewish experiences through a slew of shorts, documentaries and feature films. Various locations, sdcjc.org/sdjff.

GASLAMP MARDI GRAS Feb. 21-22 & 25, 6 p.m.-2 a.m. Go downtown for three nights of revelry at 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 HILLCREST MARDI GRAS Feb. 25, 6-11 p.m. Celebrate Mardi Gras at this roaring annual celebration. Hop on and off party buses—featuring drag queens, music and entertainment—as you explore the neighborhood’s best bars and clubs. Hillcrest, fabuloushillcrest.com. Map N1

THEATER CAMBODIAN ROCK BAND Through Dec. 15. This new play/rock concert is about survivors, the resilient bond of family and the power of music, and features a cast that performs contemporary Dengue Fever songs and classic Cambodian oldies. La Jolla Playhouse, 2910 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla, lajollaplayhouse.org. Map T20

230 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas, CA

SDBGarden.org

THE SANTALAND DIARIES Through Dec. 22.

Humorist David Sedaris’ hilarious tale of life as a department store elf, based on his own personal experience working at Macy’s during the holiday crunch. Diversionary Theatre, 4545 Park Blvd., #101, University Heights, diversionary.org. Map M18 EBENEZER SCROOGE’S BIG SAN DIEGO SHOW Through Dec. 24. A fast and funny reimagining of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol—all set in “wintery” San Diego! The Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, theoldglobe.org. Map O17 A CHRISTMAS STORY Through Dec. 29. San Diego Musical Theatre presents the heartwarming holiday story of 9-year-old Ralphie Parker who wants one thing for Christmas, and one thing only: an official Red Ryder BB gun. Horton Grand Theatre, 444 Fourth Ave., downtown, sdmt.org. Map Q16 A CHRISTMAS CAROL Through Dec. 29. Expect 19thcentury 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 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. The Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, theoldglobe.org. Map O17 FESTIVAL OF CHRISTMAS Dec. 5-29. Set in 1954 New York, a live TV broadcast of a Christmas variety show is thrown into hilarious chaos when a blizzard shuts down the city. Lamb’s Players Theatre, 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado, lambsplayers.org. Map L10 DEAR EVAN HANSEN Dec. 31-Jan. 12. All his life, Evan Hansen has felt invisible. But when a tragic event shocks the community and thrusts him into the center of

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Fresh Paint Gallery COME DISCOVER A NEW FAVORITE ARTIST!

ENTERTAINMENT a rapidly evolving controversy, Evan is given the opportunity to be somebody else in this Tony Award-winning musical. Broadway/San Diego, Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, broadwaysd.com. Map Q16 BLOOMSDAY Jan. 8-Feb. 2. Steven Dietz’s lyrical Irish love story, set in the pubs and streets of James Joyce’s Ulysses, is a funny, touching look at what it is to be in love. North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987-D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach, northcoastrep.org. Map X22 THE HUMANS Jan. 9-Feb. 2. This funny and chilling drama takes place during a Thanksgiving dinner that reveals the hopes and heartbreaks of a modern American family. Winner of the 2016 Tony Award for Best Play. San Diego Rep, Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza, downtown, sdrep.org. Map Q16 AUGUST WILSON’S JITNEY Jan. 18-Feb. 23. Set in 1970s Pittsburgh, a group of unlicensed cab drivers fight to save their business and their livelihoods as their neighborhood gentrifies around them. Contains strong language. The Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, theoldglobe.org. Map O17 THE GREAT LEAP Jan. 22-Feb. 16. When an American basketball team travels to Beijing for an exhibition game in 1989, the drama goes deeper than the strain between the two countries. Cygnet Theatre at Old Town Theatre, 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town, cygnettheatre.com. Map M13

1020-B Prospect Street, La Jolla

A KIND OF WEATHER Feb. 6-March 8. A time- jumping, tragi-comedy exploring gender identity and its effect on family. Diversionary Theatre, 4545 Park Blvd., #101, University Heights, diversionary.org. Map M18

www.freshpaintgallery.com IMAGE COPYRIGHT: PATRICK N. BROWN, 2019

HURRICANE DIANE Feb. 8-March 8. In this new comedy, the Greek god Dionysus returns to the modern world disguised as the butch gardener Diane, on a secret mission to seduce mortals and restore the earth to its natural state. Contains strong language. The Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, theoldglobe.org. Map O17 10/22/19 2:21 PM

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FLY Feb. 18-March 29. A whole new Neverland comes to life in this musical inspired by J.M. Barrie’s novel Peter Pan, featuring a powerful score, dynamic choreography and aerial acrobatics. La Jolla Playhouse, 2910 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla, lajollaplayhouse.org. Map T20

B I R C H A Q U A R I U M AT S C R I P P S

THE OUTSIDER Feb. 19-March 15. Paul Slade Smith’s comedy is a razor-sharp, nonpartisan satire of modern American politics and an inspirational tribute to democracy. North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987-D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach, northcoastrep.org. Map X22

MUSIC + DANCE + CONCERTS ATHENAEUM MUSIC AND ARTS LIBRARY January 9-12: soundON Festival of Modern Music; Jan. 21: Maxwell String Quartet (chamber); Feb. 3: Thalea String Quartet (chamber) and Michelle Cann (piano). 1008 Wall St., La Jolla, ljathenaeum.org. Map W19

Explore one of the largest seadragon habitats in the world and see what Birch Aquarium is doing to ensure their survival!

VISIT TODAY

BALBOA THEATRE Dec. 7-8: San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus: Jingle; Dec. 11: One Amazing Night; Dec. 13: An Irish Christmas; Dec. 14: Nick Offerman; Dec. 15: The Colors of Christmas; Dec. 19: Mariachi Sol de Mexico: A Merry-achi Christmas; Dec. 27: A Charlie Brown Christmas; Dec. 28: Jim Brickman: A Christmas Celebration; Jan. 11: Miranda Sings; Jan. 25: Mystery Science Theater 3000 Live; Jan. 26: Lisa Rock in Close to You: The Music of The Carpenters; Jan. 27: Tim & Eric; Feb. 18-19: The Simon and Garfunkel Story; Feb. 29: Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Live. 868 Fourth Ave., downtown, sandiegotheatres.org.

Map Q16 CALCOAST CREDIT UNION OPEN AIR THEATRE AT SDSU Feb. 3: Dermot Kennedy. 5500 Campanile Drive, SDSU, as.sdsu.edu/calcoast. Map E3

LA JOLLA • AQUARIUM.UCSD.EDU • 858.534.FISH

CALIFORNIA CENTER FOR THE ARTS Dec. 6: “¡Vívelo!” by Son Luna y Jóvenes Zapateadores; Dec. 12: Etienne

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ENTERTAINMENT Charles: Creole Christmas; Dec. 12-15 and 19-22: Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Angels; Dec. 13-14: Carols by Candlelight; Dec. 17-18: Cirque Dreams Holidaze; Dec. 18: Irish Christmas in America; Dec. 21-22: The Nutcracker; Dec. 31: Upright Citizens Brigade; Jan. 17-21: Shen Yun 2020; Jan. 23: Keola Beamer and Henry Kapono; Jan. 26: Golden Gates and Moscow Nights; Jan. 27: David Foster; Feb. 1-2: Best of Motown; Feb. 12: Sammy Miller and the Congregation; Feb. 19: International Guitar Night; Feb. 28: Stardust: A Tribute to David Bowie. 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido, artcenter.org. Map B3 CIVIC THEATRE Dec. 1-2: Lady Zhaojun starring Li Yugang; Dec. 8: John Leguizamo: Latin History for Morons; Dec. 13-24: The Nutcracker; Dec. 28: A Magical Cirque Christmas; Dec. 31-Jan. 12: Dear Evan Hansen; Jan. 22: Martha Graham Dance Company; Jan. 23: The Piano Guys; Jan. 24-26: Shen Yun 2020; Feb. 8, 11, 14, 16: Hansel and Gretel; Feb. 27: The Bachelor Live; Feb. 28-March 1: The Illusionists. 1100 Third Ave., downtown, sandiegotheatres.org. Map Q16 LA JOLLA MUSIC SOCIETY Dec. 7: Pablo Sáinz Villegas: Tribute to Segovia (guitar); Dec. 13: Voctave: The Spirit of the Season; Jan. 26: Kian Soltani (cello) and Julio Elizalde (piano); Feb. 1: Jazzy Ash & the Leaping Lizards; Feb. 9: Hanzhi Wang (accordion); Feb. 21: Brentano Quartet; Feb. 28: Hélène Grimaud. The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center, 7600 Fay Ave., La Jolla, ljms.org. Map W19 PECHANGA ARENA Dec. 5: The 1975, Catfish & the Bottlemen, iDKHOW, Fashion Jackson; Dec. 6: Illenium; Dec. 8: Andrea Bocelli; Jan. 15: Chance The Rapper; Feb. 8: TobyMac. 3500 Sports Arena Blvd., Midway, pechangaarenasd.com. Map J9 SAN DIEGO OPERA Dec. 11: One Amazing Night; Feb. 8, 11, 14, 16: Hansel and Gretel. Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, sdopera.org. Map Q16

CRYSTALS, CORALS & SHELLS, JEWELRY, FOSSILS, OPALS, METEORITES, COLLECTIBLE ART AND MORE! 1327 Camino Del Mar | Del Mar Village | 858 794 4855 | DinosaurGallerySD.com

SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY Dec. 6-8: Ling Conducts Prokofiev & Dvorák; Dec. 13: Disney in Concert: Mary Poppins; Dec. 14-15 and 20-22: Noel Noel; Jan. 10-12: Emanuel Ax: DINOGALLERY_WSD WI20 v2.indd 1 Beethoven Piano Concerto No. 1; Jan. 17-18: Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5; Jan. 19: Beyond the Score: Beethoven’s 5th Symphony; Jan. 24-25: Beethoven’s Pastoral; Jan. 31 and Feb. 2: Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 9; Feb. 9: Beethoven the Music Genius; Feb. 15: Steve Hackman’s Beethoven vs. Coldplay; Feb. 21 and 23: Payare Conducts Beethoven and Shostakovich; Feb. 28-29: Sibelius & Rachmaninoff. Copley Symphony Hall, 750 B St., downtown, sandiegosymphony.org. Map Q14 VIEJAS ARENA AT SDSU Jan. 30: SuperM; Feb. 21: Miranda Lambert. 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

10/8/19 4:48 PM

WHALE WATCHING See magnificent Gray Whales off the coast of San Diego with expert guides from Birch Aquarium at Scripps.

Flagshipsd.com/whales or call 619.234.4111

BERNARDO WINERY Founded in 1889, it’s the oldest operating winery in SoCal—family owned and operated.

The winery features a spacious tasting room, shops, galleries, The Kitchen restaurant and a craft coffee house. Open daily. 13330 Paseo del Verano Norte, Rancho Bernardo, 858.487.1866. Map C4 BIRCH AQUARIUM AT SCRIPPS Explore one of the nation’s largest oceanographic museums, and enjoy a s­ pectacular view from the tidepool plaza. Daily 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Three-hour courtesy parking. $15-19.50. 2300 ­Expedition Way, La Jolla, 858.534.3474. Map U20

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ENTERTAINMENT 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 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. Interactive presentations encourage an appreciation for animals, nature and sustainable farming. 5178 Japatul Spur, Alpine, 619.320.4942, childrensnatureretreat.org. Map D5 LEGACY INTERNATIONAL CENTER “Where tradition meets technology,” this brand-new, state-of-the-art campus boasts a world-class resort, spa, restaurants, a 4-D motion-seat theater, a gorgeous plaza, shopping, community events and much more. 875 Hotel Circle South, Mission Valley, legacysandiego.com. Map I10 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 SAN DIEGO BOTANIC GARDEN Roam 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, sdbgarden.org. 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. $56; kids 3–11 $46; kids 2 and under free. Free parking. Open daily. 2920 Zoo Drive, Balboa Park, 619.231.1515, sandiegozoo.org. Map O17 SAN DIEGO ZOO 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. Packages start at $56 for adults; children 3–12 $46; kids 2 and under free. Parking $15.

Open daily. 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, 760.747.8702, sdzsafaripark.org. Map C3 SEAWORLD The 189-acre park features marine animals, fish, reptiles and birds. Open daily; visit website for hours and pricing. 500 Sea World Drive, Mission Bay Park, 800.257.4268, seaworld.com/san-diego. Map I8

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 310

SYCUAN CASINO RESORT Find high-stakes bingo, pai gow poker, slots, 10 restaurants, live entertainment, a 500seat theater and more at this newly renovated casino— now boasting a luxe resort and spa. Daily, 24 hours. 5469 Casino Way, El Cajon, 619.445.6002. Map D5 TORREY HOLISTICS San Diego’s premier cannabis dispensary is a full-service store and much more—offering educational classes, one-on-one consultations, private appointments with an on-site cannabis scientist, tours, “Mary Jay” parties and more. 10671 Roselle St., #100, Sorrento Valley, 858.558.1420. Map D2

MUSEUMS

Carlsbad 2975 State St.

CALIFORNIA SURF MUSEUM Collection of surfing artifacts and memorabilia, plus exhibits that detail the lives and achievements of world-renowned surfing legends.

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

Palm Desert JW Marriott-Desert Springs 74855 Country Club Dr. Desert Springs Market Place 72924 Country Club Dr, #G130

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

COCOROSE.COM

CORONADO MUSEUM OF HISTORY AND ART Galleries of historical memorabilia reveal Coronado’s rich

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ATTRACTIONS 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. $18.9521.95; kids 3 and under free. 1875 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.238.1233. Map O17

SAN DIEGO’S PREMIER OCEAN ADVENTURE OUTFITTER & BIKE TOURS SINCE 1995 AT LA JOLLA KAYAK WE CAN HANDLE ALL OF YOUR ADVENTURE NEEDS, FROM SNORKELING, KAYAK OR BIKE TOURS AND RENTALS. FROM THE BEGINNER TO THE EXPERIENCED WE HAVE THE STAFF TO MAKE YOUR DAY GREAT, RIGHT FROM THE START. CALL TODAY OR GO ONLINE TO BOOK THE BEST PRICES AVAILABLE! • FUN FOR ALL AGES

GREEN DRAGON MUSEUM Peruse rare 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. Tu-Su 11 a.m. till close. Free admission. 6115 Paseo del Norte, Carlsbad, 760.918.2421. Map U22 MARITIME MUSEUM OF SAN DIEGO At this world-renowned 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 ($44-79). 1492 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.234.9153. Map P15

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MINGEI INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM Exhibits celebrate folk art from around the world. (Museum is currently closed for renovation, but offers pop-ups around town.) 1439 El Prado, Balboa Park, mingei.org. Map O17

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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

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MISSION SAN DIEGO DE ALCALÁ The first of 21 ­missions stretching north along the California coast, this 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 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

The Original Tour of the Seven Caves

(858) 459-1114 • www.LaJollaKayak.com 2199 Avenida De La Playa at La Jolla Shores Begin your adventure here...

BalboaParkConservancy.org

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

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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SHOPPING SAN DIEGO AIR & SPACE MUSEUM Spacecraft, jets and historical aircraft; plus special exhibits. Daily 10 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. $10.95-19.95; kids 2 and under free. 2001 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park, 619.234.8291. Map P17 SAN DIEGO ARCHAEOLOGICAL CENTER Learn the story of how people have lived in San Diego County for the past 10,000 years at this dynamic curation facility and museum. M-F 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Sa 10 a.m.-2 p.m. (closed Su). 16666 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, 760.291.0370. Map C4 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 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 5 and under free. 1350 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.2001. Map O17 SAN DIEGO NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM 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 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 collection of shops in Old Town features a dazzling array of Mexican decor, authentic folk art, clothing, jewelry, art and housewares; all adjacent to a festive Mexican restaurant.

4133 Taylor St., Old Town, 619.296.3161. Map M14

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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 DEL MAR PLAZA With more than 20 upscale shops, services and restaurants, this gorgeous tri-level boutique shopping plaza in the heart of town overlooks the Pacific Ocean and Del Mar Villlage’s main drag. 1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.1555. Map X22 DUTY FREE CITY Located along the U.S.-Mexico border, this 14,000-square-foot space offers sophisticated, dutyfree shopping: luxury accessories, beauty products, leather goods, confectionary, wine, spirits and tobacco. 601 E. San Ysidro Blvd., San Ysidro, 619.621.2600. Map F3

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NIGHTLIFE

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 ONE PASEO This brand-new lifestyle center marries high design with a country-coastal vibe—boasting 96,000 square feet of stores and restaurants. Tenants include Salt & Straw, SoulCycle, DryBar and Shop Good. 3745 Paseo Place, Del Mar, 858.523.2298. Map X22 OTAY RANCH TOWN CENTER Shops at this airy, stylish South County mall include Apple, Sephora and many 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 45 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 Gaslamp Quarter/Downtown/Little Italy

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 multilevel venue features country-western line dancing, live music and great lineup of DJs; plus a full bar with craft cocktails and kitchen with elevated bar fare. Bring your cowboy boots and hat. 344 Seventh Ave., East Village, 619.255.7625. Map Q16

North Coast Repertory Theatre

(858) 481-1055 | NorthCoastRep.org Solana Beach

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

JAN 8–FEB 2 SAN DIEGO PREMIERE

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. 10 p.m.-2 a.m., Th-Sa. 435 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.738.7040. Map Q16

FEB 19–MARCH 15

WEST COAST PREMIERE

PARQ This posh restaurant and nightclub delivers an unparalleled nightlife experience—with a 20,000- square-foot dance space accessed via a stone tunnel— plus renowned DJs and fabulous dining. 615 Broadway, downtown, 619.727.6789. Map Q16

40% OFF TICKETS! CODE: WHERE40

ROOFTOP 600 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

MARCH 5 - 29, 2020

THE TIPSY CROW A stylish neighborhood bar 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

619.544.1000 | SDREP.ORG

North County

BELLY UP North County’s premier live music venue with killer local and touring acts in a semi-intimate and relaxed setting. 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach, 858.481.8140. Map X22

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

CARDIFF BEACH BAR AT TOWER 13 Casual beach haunt features live music, healthier bar fare and ocean views. 2633 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, 760.635.1200. Map V22

THE CASBAH Small but legendary rock club has hosted superstars like Nirvana and The Black Keys on their way up. Live music nightly. 2501 Kettner Blvd., Midtown, 619.232.4355. Map P15

CLUB M AT FAIRMONT GRAND DEL MAR Chic bar/ dance club features live music and guest DJs on Friday and Saturday nights. 5300 Grand Del Mar Court, Carmel Valley, 858.314.2700. Map D2

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

COYOTE BAR & GRILL Locals love its cool live music and hot fire pits; plus dancing and karaoke. Indoor/outdoor spot offers casual ambiance and a view. 300 Carlsbad Village Drive, ­Carlsbad, 760.729.4695. Map T22

FLUXX Ambiance-changing dance club from the design team behind Sidebar and other venues.

500 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.232.8100. Map Q16

EN FUEGO Lively singles vibe and tasty Mexican food served up on this restaurant’s bustling patio.

1342 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.6551. Map X22

HOUSE OF BLUES SAN DIEGO Live rock, blues and pop music, plus Sunday gospel brunch. Regular mix of

JIMMY O’S Choose between the sports bar and the nightclub. Friday and Saturday nights are popular for

Jon Rua in Hands on a Hardbody; photo by Kevin Berne.

FASHION VALLEY The largest mall in San Diego, this bi-level, outdoor mall includes 200-plus upscale shops (including the exclusive Rolex Boutique, Fourtané); restaurants such as True Food Kitchen and Stacked; a food court; and an 18-screen movie theater. 7007 Friars Road, Mission Valley, 619.688.9113. Map J10

PLAY HERE! Musicals, Plays and Revivals LaJollaPlayhouse.org

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EXPLORE Del Mar socialites. Cocktails, wine and beer. 225 W. 15th St., Del Mar, 858.350.3735. Map X22 SADDLE BAR Enjoy craft beer, live music and DJs at this Wild West-inspired bar near the racetrack. 123 W. Plaza St., Solana Beach, 858.755.5007. Map W22 SHELTER Full service cocktail lounge and bar with bottle service, craft cocktails and live DJs. 540 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.753.1366. Map V22

EXPLORE BALBOA PARK Free tours about history, architecture, horticulture and botanical gardens. Visitors Center, 1549 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.0512. Map P17 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.

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.

sandiegozoo.org/africarocks

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.

NOW OPEN

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

sdzsafaripark.org/walkabout

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 Offering daily tours of San Diego Bay; plus, brunch and dinner cruises, water-taxis, weddings, celebrations, private parties, modern amenities and more. 990 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 800.442.7847. Map Q14 GASLAMP QUARTER HISTORICAL FOUNDATION Two-hour walking tour of the Gaslamp. Sa 11 a.m.

410 Island Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.4692. Map R16 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

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EXPLORE 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 LA JOLLA KAYAK Guided snorkeling/kayak tours 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 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. Reservations required (check website).

Museum open Tu-Su. $2; children under 12 free. Chinese Historical Museum, 404 Third Ave., downtown, 619.338.9888, sdchm.org. Map R16 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 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 SKYE LIMOUSINE Upscale limousine and sedan service for the savvy traveler, offering a fleet of well-maintained 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.

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. 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. Plus, whale watching and custom adventures. 858.456.1636.

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where traveler San Diego

805 76

To r r e y P i n e s

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Shoppes at Carlsbad

Westfield UTC

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wh traveelere r Carlsbad Premium Outlets Green Dragon Tavern & Museum

Ranch

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Richard Walker’s Pancake House

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Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

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Richard Walker’s Pancake House

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The Conrad

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where traveler San Diego

Torrey Pines State Reserve Visitor Center

Flower Hill Promenade

Del Mar Highlands Town Center

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30 THINGS WE LOVE THIS WINTER

28

7

15 1 Quiet morning strolls along the Pacific Beach boardwalk, before the crowds arrive.

2 Whale watching excursions; blue and gray whales can be spotted off S.D. shores in winter and spring. p. 48 3 Dining on sushi in traditional omakase-style (i.e., the chef’s choice) at Soichi in University Heights. p. 11

4 Watching PGA pros tee off at the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines Golf Course. p. 48

5 Witnessing Balboa Park come alive with lights, music and 300,000 holiday revelers at December Nights. p. 48

8 A night at the opera with San Diego Opera. This season’s productions include Hansel & Gretel and The Barber of Seville. p. 10.

9 Morning hikes through Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.

10 Watching pooches play at Ocean Beach’s Dog Beach.

11 Mountain-biking through the gorgeous trails of Tecolote Canyon Natural Park.

12 Feasting on Napoli-style wood-fired pizzas at Blade 1936 in Oceanside. p. 36 13 Touring the city’s many incredible museums for halfprice admission during San Diego Museum Month. p. 50

6 Taking the ferry from downtown San Diego across the bay on a Saturday to the landmark Coronado Ferry Landing.

through the city during San Diego Restaurant Week. p. 6

7 The opulent, art-deco decor

15 Smoky craft cocktails

at new restaurant Animae. p. 35

at International Smoke.

14 Wining and dining our way

22

16 Local produce and the best crepes in town at the Sunday Hillcrest Farmers Market.

23 The world-famous Coast Toast and La Jolla Cove views at Brockton Villa. p. 14

17 Shopping for one-of-a-kind fashions (pictured: Sara Gutierrez shoes) at Bazaar del Mundo. p. 27

24 Fine dining and views of the Torrey Pines Golf Course and the ocean at A.R. Valentien. p. 12

18 Winter concerts by the San Diego Symphony at Copley Hall downtown. p. 52

25 Exploring the new winter exhibits at San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park. p. 30

19 The beef and vegetable mandu (Korean-style dumplings), the BBQ platter and the honey-soy fried chicken at Bibigo Kitchen. p. 17

26 Brunch at Feast & Fairway

20 Cherry blossom trees, gorgeous city views and craft libations at 5th & Sky Rooftop Gardens & Lounge above Theatre Box. p. 48

21 Exploring University Heights

with a side of Coronado Bridge, golf course and bay views. p. 24

27 Fire pits, comfy Adirondack chairs and watching planes take off in the distance at Layover. p. 20 28 Pretty much everything at Extraordinary Desserts. p. 13

along Park Boulevard, home to fun shops, dining, bars and the Diversionary Theatre. p. 11

29 The jaw-dropping decor and Champagne vending machine at Morning Glory. p. 8

22 Retail therapy, relaxing and restaurant hopping at Fashion Valley Mall. p. 17

30 Ice skating by the sea at Hotel del Coronado, in December. #ThoseBrutalSDWinters p. 48

7, DUSTIN BAILEY; 22, COURTESY BA&SH; 23. KAREN MORRISON

17

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