THE CONCIERGE Your guide to our hotel and San Diego Autumn | Winter edition
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places every discerning traveler must visit PASSPORT TO ISLAND LIFE Discover California’s historic ‘Crown City’
ALL ABOARD THE TROLLEY 7 tips for getting about in San Diego
HIT THE HAUNTS in historic Old Town
Welcome
WELL, YOU HAVE CLEARLY FOUND AND, WE HOPE, ARE ENJOYING, YOUR COPY OF THE CONCIERGE. As travelers ourselves, we yearned for a guide that informed and entertained us whilst containing local information required to help us see and enjoy all the things the locals know about. A magazine that engaged us and yet wasn’t too heavy on advertising in a way that many are. Since its inception, Greydoor publishing had a desire to work closely with Les Clefs d’Or to produce a fabulous magazine for their Les Clefs d’Or member properties. The crossed gold keys of this wonderful organisation are more than just its symbol; they are the symbol of guaranteed quality service. It is this philosophy that guides us in our desire to create a publication for each hotel, which then becomes a valuable tool and addition to a guest’s stay. A magazine portable enough not to hinder and yet full enough to guide and advise in a way that makes you feel you have the hotel concierge walking beside you. With content approved and provided by the very team who are hosting you, it gives an insight into the secrets of the city in a way that hasn’t been available to a guest before. We hope you enjoy it and that it helps to make your stay at this fabulous hotel even more memorable. Travel Safe.
Alex & Steven Alex and Steven
THE CONCIERGE OUR TEAM EDITOR Daniel Campion ART DIRECTOR Alison Arthington DEPUTY EDITOR Emily O’Connor ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Alexander Weller PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER Stephanie Hall PRODUCTION MANAGER Anna Whalan STAFF WRITER Hiran Panchal GRAPHIC DESIGNER Daniel Grimes
YOUR BESPOKE MAGAZINE To enquire about a bespoke issue of The Concierge magazine for your property, please call 213 330 4886 or email Anna@greydoorpublishing.com ADVERTISING Call 213 330 4886 or email Stephanie@greydoorpublishing.com to request a copy of The Concierge media pack.
greydoorpublishing.com 601 South Figueroa Street, Suite 4050, Los Angeles, CA 90017 Kemp House, 152 City Road, London EC1V 2NX, UK 3
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THE CONTENTS YOUR HOTEL
ON THE COVER
5 Welcome
18 Twenty of the Best A discerning traveler’s guide to San Diego’s 20 best offerings
from the General Manager of the Omni San Diego Hotel, Colleen Anderson
6 Omni Hotels and Resorts
An introduction to the Global Hotel Alliance, the Omni brand, and your own accommodation, the Omni San Diego Hotel
34 Passport to Island Life Luxuriate in California’s historic “Crown City’”
10 Petco Park
52 All Aboard the Trolley 7 pleasant surprises and tips for using San Diego transit
12 Eat, Dine & Relax
60 Hit the Haunts Can’t-miss places in Old Town and Little Italy
8 Our Loyalty Programme It couldn’t be easier to catch a game during your stay Our restaurants and bars
One of our top 20 sights, Seaport Village
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Make an exotic island escape to Coronado
YOUR CONCIERGE 22 At your Service
42 The Sophisticated Side
24 Les Clefs D’Or ith Les Clefs d’Or concierges W
46 Permanent Vacations
DISCOVER SAN DIEGO
49 Coastal Extravagance
Meet your Chef Concierge, Robert Marks
anything is possible...
San Diego’s incredible arts and culture scene, including museum and gallery listings All you need to know about making San Diego your home Explore San Diego’s premiere sandy hangouts
14 Balboa Park
A playground for arts, culture and nature lovers
66 Caffeine Hit
Follow San Diego’s Coffee Trail to your perfect beverage
28 It’s All Happening Here! Your Guide to San Diego’s Fall & Winter Soirees
67 So much to see
Map of San Diego’s highlights
30 The Gaslamp Quarter
Culture, shopping, dining and nightlife right on the doorstep
FURTHER AFIELD
38 One Perfect Day in La Jolla
54 Road trip to Vegas
One of SoCal’s most remarkable places to visit
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THE CONCIERGE | Omni San Diego
The many splendors of Interstate 15
52 Hop aboard a real vintage trolley car
60 A taste of Mexican tradition
Dear Guest,
Welcome to the Omni San Diego Hotel! Since opening in 2004, the Omni San Diego has been distinguished by our ideal location, sweeping views, inviting guest rooms and warm, gracious service. We’re honored to host you and look forward to being a part of your exceptional San Diego experience. The Concierge magazine allows us to share some places that make San Diego one of the most recognized and highly regarded travel destinations in the world. Our award-winning concierges are dedicated to ensuring your time in San Diego is exciting, rewarding and memorable. Please call upon our concierge team, or any of our staff, for assistance you may need. We’re happy to be of service. I want to personally thank you for choosing the Omni San Diego Hotel and wish you a most enjoyable and pleasant stay in San Diego. Sincerely, Colleen Anderson General Manager
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and our affiliation with the Global Hotel Alliance
WHAT IS GLOBAL HOTEL ALLIANCE Omni has 60 hotels across Canada, Mexico and the United States and is proud to be part of the Global Hotel Alliance.
OMNI AT A GLANCE
One of America’s great hotel brands, award-winning Omni Hotels & Resorts craft guest experiences and ground them in local flavor.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT Whether it’s a traditional Turkish breakfast on the Bosphorus, a meeting with a view of Sydney Harbour Bridge, or simply a citychic room close to your office on New York’s Madison Avenue, the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) offers diverse local flavors.
That means there’s a fit for every travel need, from iconic European palaces, overwater Maldivian villas, safari escapes, and sensuous spa retreats (all perfect for honeymoons or other trips á deux), to businessfriendly hotels perfectly situated in the center of the most global hubs.
As the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands, GHA brings together 34 brands with more than 500 hotels spread across 76 countries.
Omni hotels cater to both business and leisure travelers. Properties feature comfortable accommodations, excellent service, top-notch conference and business facilities, exciting food and beverage options, and leisure amenities, including transportive spas, golf courses, and the like.
HEADLINE APPEAL
The brand is renowned for its tailored approach to delivering an unforgettable guest experience. Omni has consistently won awards for its service and ranks among the best hotels in the United States in this area.
MAJOR ACCLAIM
Omni Hotels & Resorts was ranked “Highest in Guest Satisfaction Among Upper Upscale Hotel Chains” by J.D. Power 2015 North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Index Study.
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THE CONCIERGE | Omni San Diego
OMNI SAN DIEGO FACT FILE The Omni San Diego Hotel is ideally located in the heart of San Diego’s historic and vibrant Gaslamp Quarter; within walking distance of more than 100 restaurants, galleries and boutiques, directly across the street from the San Diego Convention Center, and three miles from San Diego International Airport. The Omni was the first, and remains the only, hotel in the United States connected to a Major League Stadium.
Opening date: April 7, 2004 Renovated: 2016 Ownership & Management: Omni Hotels & Resorts The Omni San Diego is a 32-floor modern high-rise including 511 rooms and 36 luxury condominiums on the top 11 floors. The Omni’s unique pedestrian “sky bridge” provides direct access to the main concourse of Petco Park.
Awards and recognition: • AAA Four Diamond Award • Condé Nast Traveler Reader’s Choice –Top Hotels in Southern California 2016 • TripAdvisor “Best in Top 25 Cities” • TripAdvisor Certificate Of Excellence • “Best Hotels in San Diego” by U.S. News & World Report rankings of Best Hotels in the USA - 2012, 2013 and 2014
• Included in Parents “10 Best Hotel Chains for Families” list 2012 • Condé Nast Traveler Reader’s Choice - 2011 • Listed as the top hotel destination in San Diego by Laguna Beach Magazine, Los Angeles Confidential, 805 Living, Meetings & Conventions magazine, Inland Empire magazine, OC Metro, Westways, KTLA and Raising Arizona • Recognized for being a Leader in Energy Conservation Programs by SDGE Excellence in Energy Conservation
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INSTANT GRATIFICATION IS YOURS
Courtesy of our Select Guest® and DISCOVERY guest loyalty programs As part of our commitment to providing remarkable experiences all over the world, Omni Hotels & Resorts is proud to offer our Select Guest® loyalty program and the DISCOVERY loyalty program. Membership is complimentary. Omni Hotels & Resorts makes every stay memorable, unique, and authentic to the local culture by taking personal service to heart. The benefits of joining Select Guest® begin as soon as you sign up. Members enjoy everything from free WiFi to exclusive special offers, and free nights at any Omni Hotels & Resorts location. And beginning on your second stay the perks get even better with free morning beverage delivery, complimentary dry cleaning, and shoe shines to name a few. You’ll also be automatically entered into the DISCOVERY guest loyalty program, which entitles you to benefits at more than 500 luxury hotels and resorts in 72 countries.
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THE CONCIERGE | Omni San Diego
MORE NIGHTS LEAD TO MORE REWARDS Three levels of perks for you to enjoy Select Guest® offers three levels of membership: Gold, Platinum, and Black. Levels are based on the number of nights you stay in one of our hotels. The more nights you spend, the more amazing the rewards become. For example, you could earn free nights at Omni Hotels & Resorts or authentic Local Experiences at GHA brands worldwide. Nights and membership upgrades are processed after a stay has been completed.
Article theme
EXPLORE THE WORLD EXPLOREAS THE AN INSIDER. WORLD AS AN INSIDER. DISCOVERY makes travel unforgettable. Receive recognition and exclusive benefits across our global portfolio of hotels to make each stay more comfortable and enjoy Local Experience awards to make it more memorable. DISCOVERY makes travel unforgettable. Receive recognition and exclusive benefits across our global of hotels to make each stay more comfortable and enjoy Local Join today portfolio at discoveryloyalty.com. Experience awards to make it more memorable. Join today at discoveryloyalty.com.
CATCH YOUR SPORTING HEROES AT
PETCO PARK
The Omni San Diego was the first, and remains the only, hotel in the USA attached to a major league stadium.
Guests can access Petco Park via the sky bridge
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THE CONCIERGE | Omni San Diego
One of the best things about the Omni San Diego Hotel is its proximity to Petco Park. Guests can walk across the sky bridge to the stadium and catch a Padres game without the hassle of parking or crowds. It’s the ideal hotel for both baseball fans and those who are looking for a luxury downtown San Diego vacation. The owner of the hotel is a baseball fan himself, as evidenced by his personal collection of memorabilia scattered throughout the hotel. It’s rumored that he offered it to the Smithsonian, but it couldn’t promise to exhibit the items permanently, so he opted to display them in his hotel. The collection is impressive, as is the hotel’s private entrance to the ballpark, which makes it easy for guests to get in and out of a game.
OUR STORY In the Spring of 2009 our family moved from Downtown San Diego to the mountains of San Diego, to a small town named Ramona. When we first moved here, our property was only 9 acres of dirt and rolling hills. Our family and friends all joined forces and worked together to plant our first one thousand grape vines. Here began our journey of grape growing and wine making, which has grown into a beautiful opportunity to share the fruits of our labor with the rest of San Diego. Here at Vineyard Grant James, we strive to create wines that are enjoyable for a multitude of palates, producing single varietal wines as well as blends. Come by our family owned and operated winery Friday through Sunday to experience them for yourself.
V I N E Y A R D
gr ant j a m e s THE GRANT JAMES NOMENCL ATURE It was December of 2012 when the Choy-Sapier family (Mom, Jacques, Grant and I) decided to trade in our San Diego zip codes and easy freeway access in exchange for the small rural town of Ramona, California. We packed up and moved to a 9-acre piece of land, home to a large patch of dirt and perhaps one too many howling coyotes. Mom set the kiddos to work, and by that winter our new vineyard was beginning to grow its first 1000 grape vines. Through all the dark early hours of planting grapes to beat the Ramona heat, Mom kept our spirits up with talk of delicious home-made wine, a beautiful winery in the future. Customers to come visit us, a cute Bed and Breakfast, an opportunity to host enchanting rustic weddings. She painted for us an alluring picture of a small family brimming with opportunity; a chance to create something grand from the ground up. With all of this comes the big question... but what to call our delightful family winery? A name to stand among the greats. One that will pay tribute to those who have already invested in its leaves, its tasting patio, and the guests it will one day bring? But it must also be classy, to flow off the tongue smoother than our flagship red wine. The final decision you ask? Vineyard Grant James. Grant: for all of the work my brother put into building the tasting patio, operating the tractor, leveling the fields. James: for my grandpa, who spent every day here for years. Driving up from Rancho Bernardo at the first sparkle of daylight to build our winery into the enamoring structure you see it as today. Vineyard Grant James - a tribute. But wait, what about the second child, Miss Caitlin, you ask? The one who worked those early hours alongside her brother Grant? Well, Mom says I can have the Bed and Breakfast if that ever comes to fruition. The current frontrunners: Kiss Me Cate CafÊ, Cutie Catie’s, The Caitlin James. Feel free to stop by Vineyard Grant James to give us your suggestions!
www.vineyardgrantjames.com | 760-789-2733 25260 East Old Julian Highway, Ramona, CA 92065 Hours: Friday, Saturday, Sunday (12pm-6pm)
Eat, drink & relax at the Omni San Diego Hotel
Gourmet coffee and light breakfast items by day, craft brews by night. Coffee Bar hours Monday - Sunday 6 a.m. - 1 p.m. Craft Bar hours Monday - Friday 4 p.m. - 11 p.m. Saturday & Sunday 1 p.m. - 12 a.m. Zumbido is a casual coffee, craft beer, and wine bar located in the lobby of the Omni San Diego Hotel. Guests can enjoy breakfast and coffee in the morning and relax with a craft beer, wine, and delectable snacks in the evening.
PALM TERRACE
Poolside cocktails and light fare. Open daily 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. (Open seasonally) San Diego is famous for nearly perfect weather, and there’s no better place to relax and enjoy the sunshine than poolside at the sixth floor Palm Terrace. You’re welcome to spend a leisurely day lounging beside our heated pool, catching the game on one of the large flat-screen televisions, or imbibing on beverages and appetizers from our full-service bar. With gorgeous views and dazzling sunshine, the Palm Terrace captures the perfect combination of comfort and sophistication.
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Located in the Omni Hotel, McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks is the quintessential place to eat before or after the game. Come join us for breakfast, lunch or dinner. We are also an ideal location for large parties. From fresh seafood and shellfish to aged steaks and garden-fresh salads, our goal is to exceed your dining expectations. As our guest, you’ll experience culinary excellence at its best. Our menus boast seafood from the Pacific Rim, Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. We also source products from local ranches, farms, and wineries to prepare regionally inspired dishes. A distinctive feature of our restaurant is a beautiful bar area that provides a comfortable environment, where you can enjoy a wide variety of wines, beers, and classic hand-crafted drinks. Our bartenders are like chefs. All drinks are made with fresh-squeezed juices, and they’re hand-mixed for quality. You won’t find blenders at a McCormick & Schmick’s bar. Be sure to stop by and enjoy our award-winning bar food during happy hour. Every item on the menu is appealing and the prices are equally attractive! Opening hours Sunday - Thursday 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday & Saturday 6 a.m. - 11 p.m.
THE CONCIERGE | Omni San Diego
Images clockwise L to R: McCormick & Schmick’s Lounge Zumbido by evening McCormick & Schmick’s Patio Palm Terrace
HERE ON BUSINESS?
Business services are provided by The UPS Store, located on the fourth floor at the top of the escalators. The UPS Store offers a full range of shipping solutions, extensive printing capabilities, as well as office supplies and computer equipment rental.
Restaurants and amenities
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Balboa Park
A RT S , CU LT U R E AN D N AT U R E I N
BALBOA PARK
Whether you’re into arts and culture or nature, Balboa Park, San Diego’s 1,200-acre urban park and most popular attraction, will provide a well-rounded experience with its variety of museums, theaters, gardens, and recreational activities.
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OLD GLOBE THEATRE San Diego rarely dips below jacket weather, so the city’s an excellent location to catch a play beneath the stars. The Old Globe Theatre (theoldglobe.org), modeled after Shakespeare’s version in London, was built in 1935 for the presentation of the bard’s plays. After being renovated in 1937, being rebuilt after a 1978 arson fire, and becoming a collection of three theaters, the show still goes on at The Old Globe, with performances during the Summer Shakespeare Festival. Talented actors also perform Broadway productions – “More than 20 productions produced at The Old Globe have gone on to play on and off
THE CONCIERGE | Omni San Diego
Broadway, garnering 13 Tony Awards and numerous nominations,” according to its website. In 1984, the theater itself won a Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre. SPRECKELS ORGAN PAVILION In 1914, John D. Spreckels, one of San Diego County’s richest residents, and his brother Adolph, celebrated the construction of the Panama Canal by donating $100,000 for the creation of an organ pavilion. They dedicated it to “the people of San Diego,” and “the people of all the world,” according to the San Diego History Center. Former president Theodore Roosevelt gave a speech there on July 27, 1915,
Balboa Park
and former president William Howard Taft spoke at the pavilion nearly two months later. Today, the Spreckels Organ is the world’s largest pipe organ in an outdoor venue. Per the Spreckels’ request, concerts are free. They’re also picnicand pet-friendly. Head to the heart of Balboa Park Sundays at 2 p.m. year-round and Mondays at 7:30 p.m. from late June until late August. Visit spreckelsorgan.org for information about theme events, such as the Christmas Singalong. SAN DIEGO AIR & SPACE MUSEUM The San Diego Air & Space Museum opened in February 1963, and like
the Old Globe Theatre, burned to the ground during an arson fire in 1978. The museum suffered $4 million in damages, including the loss of the world’s lightest aircraft, the Beecraft Wee Bee, and a Spirit of St. Louis reproduction. It reopened in 1980 and became one of 10 U.S. aerospace museums to be affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution in 2005. Galleries highlight the Golden Age of Flight, WWI, WWII, modern jets, and space. Exhibits feature artifacts such as the Apollo IX command module, reproductions such as the 1901 and 1902 Wright Gliders, and memorabilia fabric and travel posters advertising the Hindenburg and the Graf Zeppelin airships.
Check sandiegoairandspace.org for featured events, such as “To the Moon and Back,” where attendees could meet command module pilots, flight directors, and astronauts Buzz Aldrin and Charlie Duke, the youngest astronaut to walk on the moon. REUBEN H. FLEET SCIENCE CENTER San Diego’s science museum and planetarium, the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center was named after Reuben H. Fleet, who arranged the first U. S. Air Mail service between New York and Washington D.C. while in the Army in 1918. He founded the San Diego Aerospace Museum in 1961. 15
Balboa Park 700,000 exotic plants. With so much to see, it’s wise to create an itinerary. Just visit zoo.sandiegozoo.org animals, log in with your Facebook, Twitter, or Google+ account, and click the “add to day” button beneath animals you don’t want to miss. Once you arrive, log into your social media account to access your agenda. The Exclusive VIP Experience enables patrons to interact with animals and visit off-exhibit areas with their own personal tour guide for five to eight hours. Visit zoo.sandiegozoo.org/tours/exclusivevip-experience to learn more. HIKING AND BIKING TRAILS More than 65 miles of trails await hikers and bikers in Balboa Park. Colorcoded and numbered signs announce difficulty, distance, and direction. Satellite images show topography and landmarks, including the above-listed attractions. Download a map of the 19 trails at balboapark.org/sites/default/ files/bptrails_overall_maponly.pdf.
The Reuben H. Fleet Science Center opened in 1973 and modified IMAX’s 65mm format to design the world’s first IMAX Dome Theater, the OMNIMAX. It also followed San Francisco’s footsteps by making all exhibits interactive. Currently, there are more than 100 exhibits, and the museum sometimes hosts adults-only events, such as “Suds & Science: An Evening of Thinking and Drinking,” and “Rum Tasting and the Science of Distilling.” Learn more at rhfleet.org.
After exploring a tropical rainforest and waterfall, visitors can travel the world via Australian, African, Canary Islands, Central American, Mediterranean, Mexican, New Zealand, South African, and South American gardens. An undersea succulent garden contains a coral reef, and the bamboo garden is reportedly the largest in the country. As a bonus, photographers can find the names of plants they’ve snapped pictures of on the SDBG’s “What’s in Bloom?” page: sdbgarden.org/blooming.htm.
SAN DIEGO BOTANICAL GARDEN San Diego’s Botanical Garden is best described as 37 acres of bliss. It has close to 3,000 varieties of tropical, subtropical, and California native plants, and more than 20,000 Facebook fans whose reviews describe it as “peaceful,” and “paradise.”
SAN DIEGO ZOO You can’t mention Balboa Park without bringing to mind San Diego’s most renowned attraction, the San Diego Zoo. In 2015, the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice awards named it the best zoo in the country and the world. The 100-acre zoo has more than 3,500 animals and
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THE CONCIERGE | Omni San Diego
ZORO GARDEN During the 1935 to 1936 California Pacific International Exposition, nudists traveled to San Diego from Chicago, which held the Century of Progress International Exposition from 1933 to 1934. “On the night before the expo opened (in May 1935), there was what the press labeled an ‘undress rehearsal’ for District Attorney Thomas Whalen,” 10news.com reported. Visitors paid a quarter to watch women in G-strings and men in loincloths play volleyball and perform a 20-minute skit. Other people peeked through a picket fence that surrounded the garden. Today, the site of the sideshow act is a family-friendly butterfly garden that’s free to the public, open from 10 a.m. to dusk, and a great way to wind down after a day of sightseeing, hiking, or biking. To learn more about Balboa Park, including dog parks, playgrounds, and restaurants, visit balboapark.org.
Discover your passion for wildlife
sandiegozoo.org
s d z s af ar ip ar k .o r g
A Discerning Traveler’s Guide to
San Diego’s 20 Best Offerings Do you suffer from vacation FOMO (fear of missing out)? At Omni Hotel San Diego, we won’t let that happen. Follow our carefully curated guide to sophisticated San Diego’s must-dos and must-sees, and you won’t miss a thing.
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C ATCH A SUNSET
AT SUNSET CLIFFS
The breathtaking Sunset Cliffs area is a natural park spanning 68 acres of the San Diego coast. The best spots for sunset viewing are the areas at Ladera Street and Luscomb Point. Bonus: look out for grey whale sightings during migration season (December through March).
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THE CONCIERGE | Omni San Diego
San Diego’s must-see top 20
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TAKE THE OLD TOWN TROLLEY
SPEND THE DAY IN BALBOA PARK
How about learning the lay of the land by hopping on and off an historical trolley tour? With flexible starting points and all-day privileges, these vintage trolley tours are one of the best ways to take the guesswork out of maneuvering around the city. You’ll even learn insider info along the way.
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TAKE THE FERRY TO
CORONADO ISLAND
The ferry runs every day between Broadway Pier and Coronado Landing Pier, as well as between the convention center and Coronado. Bring your bike along for no extra charge and enjoy a scenic bike ride once you arrive. This gorgeous boat route takes 15 minutes each way.
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HEAD OVER TO THE SAN DIEGO ZOO
One of the most famous and popular zoos in the world invites you to visit its more than 3,700 animals and 650 species. Having won many awards for conservation and humane, open habitats, the San Diego Zoo is a staple of Balboa Park and a major tourist draw every year. This is definitely a can’t-miss stop along your tour of San Diego.
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LOUNGE WITH THE SEA LIONS AT LA JOLLA COVE
Almost any time of year, scores of seals and sea lions can be found sunning themselves, preening, barking, and generally making themselves entertaining to onlookers who come to visit them along the cliffs at La Jolla Cove. You can count on these wild creatures to put on a fabulous show.
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The lovely outdoor landscaping combined with the impressive array of museums, cultural centers, and family fun destinations makes Balboa Park the cultural heart of the city in many ways. From the zoo and carousel to the United Nations building and the Spanish Village Arts Center, Balboa Park offers more than anyone could enjoy in just one day.
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VISIT LEGOLAND
This one is mostly for the kids – or the young at heart. But this beloved theme park just north of San Diego may surprise you with its wide array of activities, rides, events, and dining, all based around incredible Lego sculptures that would impress any age of visitor.
TAKE A CRAFT BEER TOUR
At either of the two main local brewery tour companies, San Diego Brewery Tours and Brewery Tours of San Diego, 21+ beer aficionados can fully immerse themselves in a variety of local brewery pubs, brew rooms, and tasting rooms. Leave the car keys at the hotel and board the bus, or choose a downtown walking tour. If you prefer, public group tours and/or private tours can be arranged.
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ORREY PINES STATE T NATURAL RESERVE
From glistening sandy beaches to rocky cliffs and nature trails, any outdoorsman will love this protected state park. A nature center museum and shop is ripe for learning about local flora and fauna. But be sure to leave your own fauna at home, as no pets are permitted.
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O ‘ULTRA’ MARINE G AT SEA WORLD
This ubiquitous marine life theme park offers rides, aquariums, encounters with dolphins, and live shows. Although there are other locations, the San Diego SeaWorld is perhaps the best known.
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ISIT MISSION V BAY PARK
Roughly 4,600 acres of sandy beaches and ocean water provide some of the best spots in the world for swimming, lounging, boating, parasailing, snorkeling, kite flying, and more. Some sections are protected wildlife areas – perfect for all-day exploration.
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ATCH A GAME AT C PETCO PARK
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ET ICE CREAM AT G MR. FROSTIE
If you’re a Padres fan, there’s no better place in the world to be. “ The best sight lines in baseball” complement the sunny San Diego sky. Watch the game and have a hot dog from the stands, or nosh on champagne and bistro selections from an Omni-sponsored Premiere Club skybox. Hotel guests will love the convenient sky bridge from the Omni San Diego Hotel directly into the park.
Established in 1949, this iconic ice cream and hot dog joint is a classic spot for vintage ambiance and delicious frozen treats in the Pacific Beach neighborhood.
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CHECK OUT THE MIDWAY
The USS Midway Museum is a downtown San Diego staple of fun and educational activities. This historic aircraft carrier-turned museum is geared toward all ages and features 60 exhibits and 29 restored aircrafts. Browse the exhibits, or dare to step inside the popular flight simulator.
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THE CONCIERGE | Omni San Diego
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LAY A ROUND AT TORREY P PINES GOLF COURSE
Called “the nation’s premiere municipal course,” this is a favorite spot for discerning golfers who don’t have a club membership in San Diego. Since both championship-quality courses are open to the public, all you have to do is make a tee-time and let the beauty of the ocean breeze wash over you as you swing, chip, and putt the day away.
San Diego’s must-see top 20
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SEE THE UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER STATUE
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S HOP, DINE AND ENJOY SEAPORT VILLAGE
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E XPERIENCE THE FINER THINGS IN POINT LOMA
You know the old photograph of a WWII soldier and a nurse kissing in Times Square following the end of the war? The same moment was captured in fiberglass as a 25-foot-tall statue that once traveled around America for viewings. Now, a bronze version draws veterans and other tourists to its new permanent home next to Bob Hope Memorial Park.
Come for the 45 boutiques and shops, and stay for the oceanside fine dining and outdoor cultural events scheduled throughout the year.
Just west of downtown, you’ll find San Diego’s upscale Point Loma neighborhood. Between multi-million dollar mansions, a shopping district, and a harbor lined with elegant yachts, there’s plenty to appeal to a bon vivant’s sensibilities.
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TTEND OPENING DAY A AT THE DEL MAR RACES
Even if you don’t normally frequent the tracks, opening day at this historic horse-racing venue is definitely a worthy time to start. Opening day at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, usually in July, is a party atmosphere to remember. So wear your classic derby-style hat, sip a mint julep, and enjoy the race in style.
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E NJOY THE VIEW FROM MOUNT SOLEDAD
This prominent landmark of San Diego’s hills provides some of the best views of La Jolla’s coast. The top of the mountain is home to the Mount Soledad Cross – a monument to our nation’s veterans.
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At your service Meet Robert Marks, Chef Concierge at the Omni San Diego and President of Les Clefs d’Or USA Dear Visitors and Guests, We’re delighted to welcome you to San Diego’s Omni Hotel. Located at the entrance of the iconic Gaslamp Quarter and connected to a major league stadium, the Omni San Diego Hotel is a constant hub of activity. Love the arts? From theaters to symphonies, museums, and galleries, San Diego has something for everyone. Fancy yourself as a foodie or a shopaholic? Trendy boutiques, nightclubs, and restaurants abound in San Diego, especially in the Gaslamp Quarter a short walk from our door. Prefer to relax and enjoy our sunny weather? With a spectacular natural harbor, miles of sandy beaches, dozens of golf courses, parks, sporting events, the zoo, SeaWorld, and other world-class attractions, your options are endless. How do you make the most of your time in California’s southernmost city? Visit or call your concierge team. We’ll answer your questions about San Diego and make suggestions and reservations that best fit your desires. We want to make sure your time is spent your way. With Les Clefs d’Or concierges, “anything is possible.” Thank you for staying with us. We look forward to meeting you soon! Warmly, Robert Marks, Chef Concierge Omni San Diego Hotel
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When did you decide to become a chef concierge and how did you start?
As a child, my dream was to go into politics. Interning for President Reagan’s White House Advance Team solidified my desire to work in public service. Helping our nation be the best it can be continues to hold great appeal. Just after high school, I took a job as a PBX operator at the Omni San Diego Horton Plaza. Shortly thereafter, I was promoted to club floor concierge. All of a sudden, it was trial by fire. The concierge position provided me with so many challenges and rewards on a daily basis. I’ve never looked back since. After four years at the Omni Horton Plaza, I worked for 11 years as the Chef Concierge/Director of Guest Services at the Catamaran, a local resort hotel. During my tenure at the Catamaran, I became a member of Les Clefs d’Or, the prestigious international association of professional hotel concierges. I’ve been the Chef Concierge here, at the Omni San Diego Hotel, since it opened its doors in 2004. Although I was never elected to public office, my dedication to the ideals of “service” remain strong. Being a concierge has more than sated my childhood dreams of making people’s lives better. As the President of Les Clefs d’Or USA, I’m not only able to cultivate extraordinary experiences for guests, I have the privilege of leading an association that’s unmatched in service excellence. As a hotel concierge, what does your job entail? The short answer? Service.
Period. Our sole purpose is to provide guests with whatever they need. From the simple to the sublime, from the everyday to the extraordinary, we work to give guests memorable, exciting, and successful travel experiences. What is the advantage of speaking to a concierge over searching the Internet? Actually, the explosion of the
Internet has made the concierge more valuable to guests than ever before. The Internet has so much conflicting information and untrustworthy websites, and most of the valid ones, besides being
THE CONCIERGE | Omni San Diego
primarily ad-driven, contain outdated, poorly vetted, and unverified information. Guests can become totally overwhelmed trying to sift through the morass of data. Using a concierge – especially a Les Clefs d’Or concierge – simplifies the process. We save our guests time, and we’re sure of our unbiased and knowledgeable recommendations. In today’s world, that’s a true luxury! The concierge is about service; the Internet is not. What do you enjoy most about being a concierge? Being a Les Clefs d’Or
concierge is an amazing career. Our jobs come with so many wonderful opportunities and incredible experiences. From famous personalities to first-time San Diego visitors, our joy is derived in our ability to make things happen for our guests. Learning about guests’ lives and interests is fascinating. It often helps us to anticipate guests’ desires, sometimes before they’re expressed. Having the gold keys helps concierges open doors for guests around the city and around the globe. Membership in this elite international association of hotel lobby concierges inspires us to provide extraordinary service. We look forward to your visit to the concierge desk and the opportunity to assist you.
What are the biggest challenges a concierge faces? Time. Life is often
fast-paced and guests often have little time. Les Clefs d’Or concierges are practiced at the art of balancing time to ensure each guest receives personalized, exceptional service. It’s keeping efficiency without sacrificing intimacy.
What is the strangest request you ever received from a guest? My job is to
make all requests happen, as long as they’re legal and ethical. Some requests are more unique than others, such as the time a guest needed 17 headless, armless manikins, with different colored eyes, so he could do a photo shoot. Probably the most memorable situation involved a bride who forgot to pick up her wedding dress before the shop closed for the day. She was so frantic, she was willing to hire someone to forcibly
Your Concierge enter the shop to get her dress, even if it meant paying for damages to the store and legal fees. Needless to say, we found a solution that did not involve breaking any laws. How would you spend your ideal day off? I love to drive, especially along
the coast of San Diego from downtown up to Oceanside, or points further north. It’s fun to stop at Tourmaline Surf Park in Pacific Beach to watch the swells and the groups of surfers maneuvering to catch the perfect wave. Follow the coast highway up north, through La Jolla and Torrey Pines, to Del Mar or Solana Beach for lunch. There are many great oceanfacing restaurants, like Jake’s in Del Mar, or choose one of the casual eateries in Encinitas. Sometimes I’ll treat myself to a drive a little further north of San Diego, to escape from reality, for a day of fun at Disneyland. These are both great ways to unwind on my free days; I love when I have the opportunity to take advantage of them.
What would you say is indigenous to San Diego? Our lifestyle. We locals
have a certain casual ease, subtle sophistication, and relaxed feel. We value our outdoor time, our beaches, the natural beauty of our city, and the many wonderful attractions and amenities. There’s truly a special feeling when you live in San Diego, one I haven’t encountered anywhere else. I’m grateful that I’m part of that lifestyle.
Tell us about your favorite places to wine and dine in the historical Gaslamp Quarter. The answer differs
greatly depending on what I’m in the mood to eat or experience. There are over 80 restaurants and lounges, so my favorite place can change from moment to moment and block to block. One of the best parts of being in the Gaslamp Quarter is that restaurants are so varied and plentiful, you can have more than one favorite.
Which places would you recommend for a family day out? It really depends.
What are the ages of the children? Is it their first visit to San Diego? How long
will they be here and what do they like to do? Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo are must-sees. Balboa Park, which just celebrated its centennial, is an incredible 1,200-acre city park that offers over 15 museums, gardens, galleries, theaters, live music, and restaurants, as well as the San Diego Zoo. Children love to explore the Natural History Museum, and the Ruben H. Fleet Science Center has lots of hands-on exhibits to explore. There’s a model railroad museum, historic carousel, and so many other wonderful things in the park, you can easily spend an entire day or more there. No trip to San Diego would be complete without a visit to the worldfamous San Diego Zoo, one of the finest zoological facilities in the world. Adults and children can enjoy the majesty and antics of hundreds of animals while surrounded by lush, tropical rain-forest settings. Especially memorable is the Skyfari Ariel Tram, which takes visitors high above the grounds of the zoo for a birds-eye view of the animals and incredible vistas of the San Diego skyline. Before leaving the zoo, make sure you stop by the gift shop for some famous San Diego Zoo animal cookies.
How can a guest best use concierge services to their full potential? It’s best
to call the concierge prior to arriving. We can help you pre-plan your visit and
provide perfect suggestions for dining, theatre, and other activities. It’s also a great idea to stop by the concierge desk upon arrival. Meeting you in person allows us to share our expertise in crafting a San Diego experience that will be memorable from start to finish. Don’t be afraid to visit the concierge desk. We’re here to answer all your questions, no matter how large or small. It’s why we’re here and it’s what we love to do! Need assistance with onward travel or future plans? Seasoned Les Clefs d’Or concierges have connections that extend far beyond their hotels. When traveling, always look for the crossed gold keys on your concierge’s uniform to find your key to everything. Can you recommend anywhere unusual or off the beaten track? One of the
most beautiful, scenic, and memorable locations is the Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery. Situated on the cliffs of Point Loma, its gently sloping hills look out over San Diego Bay and Coronado Island. It offers dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean and the coastline of Mexico. You can sit and watch as impressive military ships and majestic cruise liners make their way into San Diego Bay, or gaze out over the Pacific as the sun slowly sets in the west. It’s fascinating to stroll the grounds and learn about the brave men and women who served our country. 23
Long before the Internet… indeed, long before electricity… and long before hotels were in vogue… …there were mysterious service providers whose sole purpose was to ensure the comfort and delight of visitors to their masters’ palaces. They carried candles to illuminate the way and they alone possessed a full set of keys, uniquely enabling them to open every door. Who were these trusted confidantes? They were concierges. Concierges who wear the crossed golden keys are members of Les Clefs d’Or, an elite international association of hotel concierges. They’re connected, committed to providing guests with extraordinary service.
Curious? Let us create an enchanting memory for you. With Les Clefs d’Or concierges, anything is possible.
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THE CONCIERGE | Omni San Diego
Les Clefs d’Or
The crossed gold keys on a concierge’s lapel are international symbols of excellence. Les Clefs d’Or members have acquired the skills and contacts to open doors for their guests around the country and around the world. From helping with your simple request to resolving a complex problem, your Clefs d’Or concierge is trained to assist you throughout your stay. Our top priority is your safety and satisfaction. Experience the Clefs d’Or difference!
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The key to a traveler’s every need
The only limit to a concierge’s abilities is your imagination. Anything is possible!
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THE CONCIERGE | Omni San Diego
Come aboard for the total yacht experience of a lifetime
San Diego’s best kept secret is not on land… it’s on San Diego’s enchanting bay. Savor the unique pleasure of cruising the San Diego Bay in your own private yacht – for less than you might expect. Zolna Yachts, conveniently located on Harbor Island, offers the greatest variety of luxuriously appointed yachts for private charter and overnight dock-side lodging. Whether you’re a regular visitor to the city or this is your first trip to San Diego, make sure an exclusive cruise with your friends or family aboard one of our yachts is on your list of things to do. We promise our cruises are a magical experience that you won’t soon forget.
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LET’S CRUISE TOGETHER
It’s all happening here! YOUR GUIDE TO SAN DIEGO’S FALL & WINTER SOIREES San Diego is one beautiful beach town that doesn’t slow down in the fall and winter. Instead, the party keeps going all season long with festivals, music, shopping, shows, and more. Come to San Diego any time of the year, and you’ll find festivals and fun.
NOVEMBER 2016 YEAR-ROUND Whale Watching Tours Many coastal towns have whalewatching excursions, but San Diego is one of the only places where you can go out on a professional boat tour in the winter.Year-round except for major holidays, the San Diego Whale Watch company takes two groups of passengers per day for a three-hour tour devoted to catching a glimpse of these majestic creatures in the wild. sdwhalewatch.com NOV 24 - JAN 2 The Del’s Skating by the Sea From Thanksgiving Day through the second of January, holiday crowds can enjoy the Hotel Del Mar’s famous beachfront views from its ice-skating rink. With sales benefitting the Make-aWish Foundation, you and your family can feel good about this unique holiday tradition. hoteldel.com/activities/skating
DEC 2-3 39th Balboa Park December Nights This annual two-day event can only be described as delightful. The Balboa Park Conservancy hosts the premiere celebration of winter and the spirit of Christmas with an enchanting ambiance. Admission is free to the park’s museums, and there is shopping, music, lights, food, and more. The HPR International Christmas Festival also takes place during the December Nights event, providing popular, multicultural Christmas food and folklore in the Cottage area of Balboa Park. balboapark.org/decembernights DEC 11 - 18 The 45th Annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights Viewable from bay front areas as well as the pier at Caesar Chavez Park, this dazzling light show includes a parade of beautifully lit boats, all competing for a different grand prize every year. Spectators will love this iconic San Diego tradition. dparadeoflights.org
JANUARY 2017 JAN 4, 11, 18, 25 Dive-In Theatre at The Pearl Any Wednesday in January, you and your crew can view eclectic films projected on an outdoor movie screen over the vintage swimming pool at The Pearl. Admission is free, and food and drinks are available for purchase in the lounge. thepearlsd.com JAN 25 Garrison Keillor in Concert Get your tickets sooner rather than later for this radio icon’s Southern California stop on his final tour. Come to the California Center for the Arts for a chance to hear this master storyteller live. artcenter.org
DECEMBER 2016 DEC 1-31 San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum Story Time and Craft Throughout the month of December, youngsters and their accompanying adults have the chance to experience culture and science through guided play and a corresponding craft. The events start at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. daily. Hands-on indoor and outdoor exhibits also appeal to children ages 1-10. sdcdm.org
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THE CONCIERGE | Omni San Diego
FEBRUARY 2017 FEB 2 Black Violin in Concert Wil B. and Kev Marcus are virtuoso violinists who appeal to pop music lovers and classical fanatics alike. Together with DJ TK, these three come together for a unique ensemble concert at 7:30 p.m. artcenter.org
FEB 28 23rd Gaslamp Mardi Gras Block Party, Parade and Celebration It’s been called “Southern California’s most beloved block party,” and it’s not hard to understand why. This 21+ event takes place on downtown San Diego’s historic Fifth Avenue, between E Street and Market. From five stages of performers and DJ’s to drinks and dancing in the street with the other 30,000 yearly attendees, you’re sure to have a fun time. Come to this giant Mardi Gras celebration and get your beads on. sdmardigras.com
MARCH 2017 MAR 4 16th Annual Black & White Ball Benefitting Casa de Amparo and ACC-SD, this famously elegant event includes a wine reception, dinner, and dancing. Dress is black- or white-tie optional. Cost is $2,000 per table or $200 per seat. acc.com/chapters/sandiego MAR 4, 11, 18, 25 Flamenco Dinner Show at Café Sevilla The dinner show at Café Sevilla is a favorite Fifth Avenue Saturday night activity. Professional flamenco dancers delight onlookers during a three-course meal. Tickets are $65 in advance. cafesevilla.com/san-diego-flamenco
APRIL 2017 APR 1-30 Red Velvet See the play that the London Telegraph called “informative, entertaining, and thoughtprovoking.” San Diego’s iconic Old Globe Theatre hosts this award-winning play written by Lolita Chakrabarti. Tickets start at $34. theoldglobe.org APR 2 Fourth Annual San Diego Film Awards Come see both local and international film stars and filmmakers walk the red carpet, or purchase a ticket and join them for the black-tie awards show event inside. The event is held at the well-known San Diego venue, The Music Box, located in charming Little Italy. filmconsortiumsd.com
Asti has been serving San Diego the best Italian pasta, seafood and steaks for over 22 years. Located on Fifth Ave in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, Asti is walking distance to
the San Diego Convention Center and nearby hotels.
Asti prides itself on both its exquisite, authentic
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For large groups and events, Asti can provide private dining options and has a full time
event team to meet all of your group’s needs.
FIND US
CONTACT US
728 5th Avenue San Diego, CA 92101
info@astisandiego.com (619) 232-8844
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Intrigue IN SAN DIEGO’S
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THE CONCIERGE | Omni San Diego
The Gaslamp Quarter
Named for the stately gas lamps that lit much of the district during its early days in the 1800s, this nightlife mecca is also notable for its vivacious festivals, upscale culture and shopping selections, and an exciting dining scene. Since undergoing a dynamic urban renewal in the 80s and 90s, this section of San Diego’s downtown area is vibrant. While the district has a big reputation, it only covers about 16 blocks. This means there’s a lot to do packed into a small area, making the Gaslamp Quarter the perfect vacation spot. Choosing a hotel, like the well-situated Omni San Diego Hotel, right at the entrance of the Gaslamp district, will help you maneuver the city’s energetic sites. Assuming you’re the type of discerning traveler who enjoys chasing new adventures while maintaining a certain level of comfort, our hand-selected Gaslamp destinations will help ensure you experience a truly memorable stay. It can be difficult to find true Victorian architecture anywhere on the West Coast. That’s one reason the Gaslamp Quarter of San Diego, California, is so special. In fact, the entire 16-and-a-half block area is on the National Register of Historic Places. When developer Alfonzo Horton built a wharf at the end of Fifth Avenue in 1869, there wasn’t much else there. But he saw this rich, waterfront property as the quintessential place to develop a new and bustling downtown for San Diego. As Horton and others began to build up the oceanfront, the neighborhood took off with the addition of a bank, a lecture hall, hotels, residences, and more. For a period that began in the 1880s, this lively zone attracted sailors, gold prospectors, sex workers, and gamblers, including Wyatt Earp and Ida Bailey, who owned San Diego’s most notorious brothels. With sex, drugs, gambling, and music halls, the district maintained a seedy atmosphere until the 20th century, when city officials helped this historic neighborhood undergo a dynamic urban renewal. You’ll still find music and dancing
pouring into the streets at night in the Gaslamp Quarter, but the clientele is decidedly more sophisticated. Currently, the Gaslamp Quarter is home to the finest dining, clubs, and culture that San Diego has to offer. YOUR OWN UNIQUE BRAND OF PERFECTION California’s laidback, healthy lifestyle is contagious, is it not? If your idea of the perfect vacation day starts with an espresso from Zumbido (the Omni San Diego Hotel’s new coffee, craft beer, and wine bar) and a 5 a.m. lap swim, we’ve got you covered. Our outdoor oasis pool is a great place for an invigorating sunrise workout in the salty seaside air. With heated early morning swim hours all year round, you can get your laps in before the markets even open on the East Coast. Complement your workout with a delicious smoothie or cold-pressed juice from one of the following juice bars, all under a five-minute walk from the hotel. Myxologie Juice Bar, just a few blocks to the east, opens at 7 a.m. and is your best early-morning bet for healthy smoothies and juices (445 Tenth Ave.). SOL CAL Café bills itself as a “cheery
space for juices and vegan fare” and is an absolute paradise if a cleanse is part of your itinerary (910 J St.). Vitality Tap, on the western edge of the Gaslamp Quarter, is a hotspot for juices and smoothies but doesn’t open its doors until 9 a.m. (650 First Ave.). And if your idea of vacation is a bit more… relaxed? Well, we have some appealing ideas. Guests in need of a little pampering are invited to have breakfast in bed without even picking up the phone. Choose from our world-class menu and order room service online to take the hassle out of leisure. From coffee and the classic All-American Breakfast to cappuccino and seasonal berries with cream, gastronomes of all sorts will be sated. If you wish to wander a bit farther for breakfast, stroll down the street a few steps to the ever-popular Broken Yolk Café (355 Sixth Ave.) for something simple. Or for a more delicate local flavor, try a mouthwatering almond croissant and café au lait at Le Parfait Paris, which has been called the quarter’s “finest French bakery” (555 G St.). The Mission has been a San Diego institution for years and is a solid choice for local, healthy fare (1250 J St.). 31
Wyatt Earp Saloon
LONG, SUNNY AFTERNOONS IN THE GASLAMP QUARTER Are you in the mood to shop? A quick stop at bold millinery Goorin Bros. Hat Shop will ensure you have just the right brim to shade you from a sunny San Diego day (631 5th Ave.). Bubbles Boutique, like its name, is a fun, effervescent shop for ladies’ ready-to-wear fashions and whimsical accessories from local artists and bigger brands (226 Fifth Ave.). Art lovers will see the upbeat and positive tone of San Diego culture reflected in the works showcased at the Chuck Jones Gallery nearby (232 Fifth Ave.). A print by the late comic artist and illustrator would make an uplifting reminder of time well spent in San Diego. If your suitcases are already packed to the gills, perhaps you’d prefer a historic walk through the Gaslamp Quarter. An easy walk from the Omni San Diego Hotel or Petco Park stadium (home of the San Diego Padres), the Davis-Horton House, site of the Gaslamp Museum, is an enriching way to get to know San Diego’s history. As the oldest structure standing in downtown San Diego, its classic saltbox style is worth the visit. In addition to its own collections, the museum offers a variety of walking and custom tours, including architectural, children’s, and even paranormal tours. Please note the museum is closed on Mondays (410 Island Ave.). 32
HOT DAYS, HOTTER NIGHTS After an afternoon on the town, a siesta, and a soak in the spa, the Omni San Diego Hotel’s beautiful outdoor Palm Terrace will help your afternoon blend seamlessly with cocktail hour. Then, for dinner, you’ll be faced with the best selection of fine dining for miles. The Gaslamp Quarter proper is home to many of San Diego’s best restaurants, theaters, and nightclubs. With an offering like Omni San Diego’s own McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks right in the building, you needn’t work too hard to taste the best surf and turf in the neighborhood. Plus, a stylish bar area serves up the perfect apéritif before your night out. Other epicurean favorites, from Japanese fusion cuisine at Nobu San Diego (207 Fifth Ave.) to Searsucker, celebrity chef Brian Malarkey’s massively popular New American classic dining destination (611 Fifth Ave.), make up the best concentration of fine dining anywhere in the surrounding region. After dessert, you’ll be smack in the middle of the best club and theater scene anywhere south of Los Angeles. Don’t worry about calling or waiting for a car – high-energy travelers can find world-class dance, theater, and nightclubs in mere steps. FLUXX, known for its in-demand DJs (500 Fourth Ave.), joins Omnia Nightclub for the biggest dance scene and cool rooftop cabanas
THE CONCIERGE | Omni San Diego
(454 Sixth Ave.). For a more acoustic experience, the Shout! House is famous for live piano rock sing-alongs (655 Fourth Ave.). These clubs are among dozens of dazzling nightlife offerings within an easy walk of your classy digs. DECISIONS, DECISIONS, DECISIONS Look out, Miami. Your reputation as the hottest destination for beaches and off-the-charts nightlife has officially been challenged. The historic Gaslamp Quarter is known as one of the best places to visit in Southern California, let alone the San Diego area. You’ll have the atmosphere of Victorian history, the marina, the museums, downtown, and the famous San Diego Zoo at your fingertips. Additionally, Omni San Diego Hotel guests are consistently treated to lovely rooms, impressive views, impeccable service and facilities, and delectable dining choices. Join the complimentary, award-winning loyalty program, Select Guest, for even more perks. So why will a stay in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter impress you more than usual? In addition to the luxe services and amenities you can always expect at an Omni property, your surroundings in the Gaslamp Quarter are bathed in rich cultural history. With no shortage of activities, the Gaslamp Quarter is sure to provide guests with great memories.
LOCATED IN THE HEART OF SAN DIEGO’S HISTORIC GASLAMP QUARTER, OSETRA FISHHOUSE & STEAKS FEATURES GOURMET SEAFOOD, PRIME-AGED MEATS, AND AN AWARD WINNING WINE SELECTION SHOWCASED IN A THREE-STORY WINE TOWER ACCESSED BY “WINE ANGELS”
OSETRA IS THE PERFECT VENUE FOR A ROMANTIC DATE OVERLOOKING THE GASLAMP AREA, OR TO HOLD A BUSINESS DINNER IN ONE OF OUR PRIVATE ROOMS, ONE OF WHICH HOLDS UP TO 30 PEOPLE AND THE OTHER ONE UP TO 16. OUR MEZZANINE LEVEL CAN BE USED FOR A PRIVATE PARTY UP TO 200.
HAPPY HOUR DAILY 4 TO 6:30 IN THE BAR AREA
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PASSPORT TO ISLAND LIFE Luxuriating in California’s Historic “Crown City”
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THE CONCIERGE | Omni San Diego
Coronado
Lovely Coronado, California, is just moments from downtown San Diego, yet still manages to feel like an exotic island escape for tourists, travelers, and pleasure-seekers. Home to year-round sunny weather and some of the best beaches you will ever find, this San Diego-adjacent resort town blends luxury with outdoor fun and the historic treasures of Southern California. Coronado is the perfect place to spend the day while vacationing in San Diego. Your day in Coronado can take many shapes. Choose from pristine beaches, enchanting shopping streets, world-class spas, lively theater scenes, and excellent al fresco dining options. No matter what you do, you’re sure to be charmed by the friendly, laid-back, yet sophisticated way of life. HISTORY Though spending time in Coronado certainly feels like tasting a slice of island life, it is actually a peninsula, attached to mainland California by a long sandbar. Still, the fastest ways to travel to Coronado from the mainland are by passenger ferryboat (a 15-minute ride) or across the historic Coronado Bridge. Visitors often wonder why the famed bridge was built in the shape of a long parabola. The curved shape actually makes the two-mile drive across the bridge take a bit longer. The reason behind it, though, makes perfect sense. Architect Robert Mosher explains he built the bridge (which first opened in 1969) with a 90-degree curve to allow enough height for the U.S. Navy’s frequent ship-crossings and aircraft carriers to fit underneath. Although there are many other historic landmarks to learn
about in Coronado, the second most-asked-about landmark is the grand Hotel del Coronado, often referred to affectionately as “Hotel Del.” Facing out into the Pacific, this coastal resort was the first one on the west coast and one of the grandest resort hotels the western world had ever seen when it opened its doors in 1888. So many features have contributed to the near-mythic pull of Hotel Del: a grand ballroom, the crown banquet room, state-of-the-art amenities (for the time period), and luxurious guestrooms – many with views of the ocean. Numerous presidents, celebrities, and foreign dignitaries have visited Hotel Del and contributed to its rich history. Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 10:30 a.m., and Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m., you can take an historic tour of Hotel Del, given by docents from the Coronado Historical Association. WHERE TO EAT For an easy, casual breakfast, locals and tourists love Café 1134 or Clayton’s Coffee Shop on famous Orange Avenue. Grab a coffee and pastry, or relax at the espresso bar with some of their classic bistro selections. These cafes are also great spots to pick up sandwiches and more for an outdoor picnic on the beach. If fine dining by the beach is more your style, enjoy a gourmet Mexicaninspired lunch in the relaxing atmosphere of the Sun Deck Bar and Grill at 1500 Orange Ave. Diners with an interest in California history will appreciate Tent City Restaurant, named for an early 20th century Coronado resort made up of tents and thatch-roofed cottages. Fun and distinctive, Peohe’s is reachable by both land and sea. Gorgeous views and epic seafood have won this restaurant many accolades. For a first-rate take on the classic steak, try Stake Chophouse & Bar. On the other side of Coronado, the bayside neighborhood offers delicious picks like Il Fornaio, a fine-dining, authentic Italian eatery that boasts “the freshest 35
Coronado
ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.” Come for the food and the views; stay for the impressive collection of Italian and Californian wines. If an Italian food taste test is in order, compare Il Fornaio’s delicious Italian fare to Primavera Ristorante’s classic, Northern-Italian style menu. Don’t miss the world famous house specialty, osso bucco – a classic Milanese dish featuring “a large braised veal shank served over your choice of pasta or risotto.” WHERE TO SHOP If you’ve heard of Coronado before, it’s likely you’ve also heard about the charming “Main Street USA” atmosphere along the famous Orange Avenue in downtown Coronado. This village-like shopping district is lined with palm trees and dotted with sidewalk cafes. Chain stores are few and far between on this famous avenue, as unique boutiques and local artisans’ wares are encouraged. The Shops at the Ferry Landing offer a delightful ambiance for windowshoppers, souvenir seekers, or art-lovers. Check out places such as the Art for Wildlife Gallery for unique, coastal nature-themed pieces. WHERE TO EXPLORE Those who love to spend their vacations getting a bit of exercise while they sightsee will find endless diversions to enchant and invigorate. Bikes & Beyond, at 1201 1st Street, can outfit you and your cohort with all sorts of bicycle configurations (beach cruisers, mountain bikes, four-person surrey bikes, etc.) for 36
exploring the “island” by bike. Or hit the water for a unique “urban kayak tour,” leaving from Coronado Ferry Landing and paddling around the sights for two hours at a time. Visit bikeandkayaktours. com for details. WHERE TO LUXURIATE Coronado Central Beach has been voted the #1 beach in America by more than one travel outlet. It’s not hard to see why. The grand Hotel Del Coronado sits in the background, and one-and-ahalf miles of long, flat surf stretches out in front. The lifeguards on duty and the shallows (perfect for skim-boarding) make this a great choice for families to lie out on the sand and get in some serious sun and splashing. To the north, you will find one of the area’s only dogfriendly beaches, in case you brought your best friend along with you. Travel down the coast a bit to Silver Strand State Beach for a more secluded feel and the best panoramic views.
THE CONCIERGE | Omni San Diego
WHERE TO SHAKE THINGS UP If your wanderlust cannot be appeased by seaside relaxation alone, dial in to one of Coronado’s many spots for outdoor adventure and get your heart pounding. Try Coronado Surfing Academy to book a lesson or two and earn your longboard stripes. Also check out Action Sports on Coronado Avenue to rent a WaveRunner or try your hand at water-skiing the San Diego Bay. THAT CLUB LIFE Located on the southern end of Glorietta Bay Park, this municipal club and boathouse offers boat and water equipment rentals, docking space for members, sailing and boating classes, and more. Try your hand at a sunset group paddle or a community s’mores event with live music. Membership is required to use the facilities, but fear not: your concierge is happy to assist you in obtaining a day pass.
ONE PERFECT DAY IN
La Jolla
Often called the “jewel city” of Southern California, this seaside community along San Diego’s northern rocky cliffs and golden sands is definitely one of SoCal’s most remarkable places to visit.
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THE CONCIERGE | Omni San Diego
La Jolla
La Jolla a destination that’s world famous for its stunning natural beauty and scenic coastlines. This gorgeous beach town also offers a unique selection of upscale shopping and art galleries as well as the world-class Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego – La Jolla. The well-regarded University of California, San Diego and world-class oceanography institutions and research organizations also make their home here in La Jolla. If it’s indoor, shaded activities you seek, you can find plenty to do with all the art, culture, and museums. Outdoor adventures abound, too, for those wishing to explore. BREAKFAST ON THE BEACH Start the day with a jolt – Brockton Villa is as famous for its al fresco dining and dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean as for its delicious coffee and “coast toast” French toast. Chef Mareyja Sisbarro has designed seasonal breakfast through dinner menus that pair well with relaxation and ocean ambiance. Prefer a cappuccino and a scone? Order them to go from the popular
Brick and Bell Café by La Jolla Shores. It’s one of only a few spots that opens before 8 a.m., so it’s a savior for those wanting an early-morning caffeine rush and a bite to eat. There’s a downtown location on Silverado Street that’s a perfect pit stop on the way to a shopping trip. The Shores location is a great place to grab a to-go cup to carry on a breathtaking morning walk along the beach. LA JOLLA SHORES PARK Overlooking the State Marine Reserve and La Jolla Underwater Park, which offers incredible diving and snorkeling, this stretch of pristine sand offers early-morning walkers a rare opportunity to breathe the kind of air you’ll wish you could bottle. Just a fiveminute walk from the café, along Avenida de La Playa, you’ll find oceanfront rows of palm trees that complement iconic Southern California views. Wear your swimsuit beneath your clothes so you’re ready for anything the waves throw at you. Nothing starts a day in La Jolla like the invigorating sea air and the refreshing sound of the Pacific Ocean pounding up the shore to greet you.
This is one of the area’s most popular beaches for tourists and locals alike – partly because of all the amenities nearby, and partly because of the striking views. Any kids in tow will appreciate the surf and sand, of course, but how often do little ones have a chance to climb on a jungle gym with their lungs full of salty sea air or ride on a swing that makes them feel like they’re sailing along the high seas? Kellogg Playground, a recently renovated and popular feature of this family-friendly beach park, has become a symbol of fun and adventure. Children also love connecting with nature and wildlife by checking out the famous sea lions that sun themselves along the cliffs of La Jolla Cove, just to the southwest. Your blissful morning stroll along the shore is just the beginning. A few blocks southeast of La Jolla Shores Park and Beach, you’ll find the area’s most popular destination for Bike and Kayak Tours. This hip shop offers guided tours of La Jolla via kayak, bicycle, and even snorkeling. Kayak with a guide to the famous Seven Caves of La Jolla if you’re feeling adventurous. If solo exploration is more your style, rent a bike, grab a map, and explore the coast on your own.
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La Jolla
A VILLAGE AFTERNOON Whether you’d like to ride your rented bike down the coast or take a little drive, you can enjoy lunch and shopping in the Village. The newly redesigned and much-lauded modern Californian eatery known by locals as George’s is our top pick for the most romantic views possible. The gorgeous terrace seating complements seasonal fare by executive chef Trey Foshee. There’s no shortage of serene outdoor dining options in the area. Visit The Cottage, a local institution for breakfast and lunch, where the notoriously friendly staff serves up “tasty, classic American and Southern California-influenced food.” A mainstay in upscale menswear, the Ascot Shop is the perfect antidote to a boring wardrobe. Having recently celebrated its 65th anniversary of partnership with Robert Talbott, this purveyor of fine men’s clothing and goods is definitely part of the old guard of La Jolla shopping. The whiteglove service that clients have come to know is among the many reasons that discerning shoppers continue to visit this fixture of Girard Avenue. Other prime spots include Warwicks, an independent bookshop, for rare tomes; Ark Antiques, for upscale curiosities and furniture; Sigi, for fine women’s fashions; and the Needle Nook, a colorful yarn, embroidery, and needlepoint shop and studio. 40
DINNER AND A MOVIE GET A CHIC MAKEOVER Begin your evening in the relaxed yet elegant atmosphere of the Village of La Jolla (not to be confused with the La Jolla Village shopping center) where you can indulge in local craft beer and “elevated pub grub” at the popular La Jolla Brewing Company (lajollabeer.com). The Whisk and Ladle and Dukes are two other highly recommended spots to dine. Admittedly, going to see a movie while on a seaside vacation may not seem appropriate, but a visit to THE LOT La Jolla will change your mind. Just a stone’s throw from the Village of La Jolla, you can watch a movie, dine on sophisticated Mediterranean dishes, and enjoy cocktails in the trendiest of atmospheres. This combination film house/night spot is nothing like your average movie theater. In addition to showing a combination of blockbusters and independent films, this hip cinema also regularly hosts live events with music and dancing. HONORABLE MENTION Hopefully, you have enough time in La Jolla to spend four hours on a round of golf. But if you have more time to spare, Torrey Pines Golf Course is calling your name. Frequently referred to as the nation’s premiere municipal course, this home of the 2008 U.S. Open is a favorite destination among golfing travelers. Lovely views of the coast mingle with groves of the area’s namesake, Torrey pine trees, which are native only to this strip of California coast and nearby Santa Rosa Island.
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Since this course is open to the public, visitors have no problem scoring a tee time as long as they call ahead or arrange one in advance through the hotel concierge, who will be happy to help. BROCKTON VILLA 1235 Coast Blvd., La Jolla, CA 92037- (858) 454-7393 brocktonvilla.com BRICK AND BELL 2216 Avenida de La Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037 - (858) 551-0928 facebook.com/brickandbelllajolla BIKE AND KAYAK TOURS 2158 Avenida de La Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037 - (858) 454-1010 bikeandkayaktours.com GEORGE’S 1250 Prospect St., La Jolla, CA 92037 (858) 454-4244 georgesatthecove.com THE COTTAGE 02 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037 (858) 454-8409 cottagelajolla.com ASCOT 7750 Girard Ave., La Jolla, CA 92037 (858) 454-4222 ascot.com THE LOT 7611 Fay Ave., La Jolla, CA 92037 - (858) 777-0069 thelotent.com TORREY PINES 11480 N. Torrey Pines Road, San Diego, CA 92037 - (858) 581-7171 torreypinesgolfcourse.com
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THE
SOPHISTICATED SIDE O F B E AC H TOW N U S A
When you think of San Diego, what comes to mind first may be stunning beaches, beautiful people, killer weather, and maybe even the best zoo in the world. But San Diego is also proud to share its incredible arts and culture scene with visitors.
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Arts & Culture scene
San Diego’s Arts and Culture Scene Did you know that Balboa Park, near downtown San Diego, has been called “the Smithsonian of the West” and has one of the largest concentrations of arts and cultural offerings in the United States? Like the National Mall in Washington D.C., Museum Mile in New York City, or the cultural offerings of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, Balboa Park boasts a concentration of more than fifteen museums and performing arts spaces.
San Diego Museum of Man
Balboa Park offers a landmark museum and cultural centers focused on varied subjects, such as the Museum of Photographic Arts, the San Diego Air & Space Museum, the San Diego Natural History Museum, and the San Diego Model Railroad Museum. Balboa Park is the natural first stop on your cultural tour of the sophisticated side of this famous beach town. It would be a mistake to simply stop there, however. The San Diego Symphony Orchestra, for instance, has been an elite staple of American music for more than 100 years. After playing its first public concert in San Diego in 1910, SDSO earned the honor of being named a “Tier One Orchestra” by the League of American Orchestras in the year of its one hundredth anniversary. Now performing about 140 live concerts per year, including music by classical, jazz, and modern experimental composers, the SDSO is a staple of the San Diego arts and culture scene. Popular concert series include an outdoor Summer Nights concert series at Embarcadero Marina Park South, and a particularly lively series of events where the orchestra accompanies greatest hits from the silent film era. San Diego is the crown jewel of Southern California for many reasons, and chief among them may be its stunning outdoor landscape. But this unique cultural city is home to some of the nation’s best performing artists and fine arts collections. All you have to do is look.
THE CITY OF SAN DIEGO CLAIMS NINE DISTINCT ARTS DISTRICTS Best for Chicano street art, hip galleries: Barrio Logan. Best for public and gallery art by San Diego’s dynamic immigrant populations: City Heights. Best for cool, contemporary gallery spaces and the Music and Arts Library: La Jolla. Best for local emerging artists: Mirimar and Clairemont. Best for historic mission architecture mixed with live theater selections: Mission Valley. Best for live music in the park and taking public art classes: Northeast. Best for impossibly hip, urban galleries and quirky art: North and South Park. Best for a mixture of art and history, dance studios, textile art, and classic Californian architecture: Point Loma. Best for film, street fairs, and multi-cultural art: Southeastern. 43
MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES Bread and Salt A former bread factory, this cutting-edge gallery in Barrio Logan hosts experimental artists and the “Fresh Sound” music and composer series. 1955 Julian Ave. San Diego, CA 92113 - (619) 851-4083 facebook.com/breadandsaltsd Athenaeum Music & Arts Library This library is known for its popular jazz concerts. Visitors can also attend art and music lectures, chamber music concerts, and a school of the arts program. 1008 Wall St. La Jolla, CA 92037 (858) 454-5872 - ljathenaeum.org La Jolla Historical Society Hosting rotating art exhibits and a research library, the Society also offers a popular “secret garden tour” and “modern homes tour.” 780 Prospect St. La Jolla, CA 92037 (858) 459-5335 - lajollahistory.org UC San Diego’s Geisel Library Geisel Library holds collections from longtime La Jolla resident Dr. Seuss. See original drawings, photos, manuscript proofs, books, and other delights. 9500 Gilman Dr. La Jolla, CA 92093 (858) 534-3336 - libraries.ucsd.edu Scripps Ranch Library The Library is famous for its popular, year-round Scripps Ranch Symphony in the Park series. 10301 Scripps Lake Dr. San Diego, CA 92131 - (858) 538-8158 - srfol.org Women’s Museum of California Celebrate the rich and beautiful history of American women, from politics to sexuality. 2730 Historic Decatur Rd. San Diego, CA 92106 - (619) 233-7963 womensmuseumca.org The NAT: San Diego Natural History Museum This museum is great for families. Visitors will learn about California’s natural history and view an impressive collection of fossils. 1788 El Prado (Balboa Park) San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 232-3821 - sdnhm.org 44
The San Diego Museum of Art This world-class art museum features American collections as well as international exhibits. 1450 El Prado San Diego, CA 92101 - (619) 232-7931 San Diego Museum of Man This unique anthropological center hosts interesting exhibits on topics such as cannibalism, beerology, ethnicity, and street art. 1350 El Prado San Diego, CA 92101 - (619) 239-2001 museumofman.org Museum of Photographic Arts Featuring striking photography exhibits by famous and lesser-known photographers, this museum has something to offer for all ages. 1649 El Prado San Diego, CA 92103 (619) 238-7559 - mopa.org San Diego Air & Space Museum If aviation and space exploration interest you, give yourself several hours to explore everything this landmark museum has to offer. Located in the former Ford building of Balboa Park, this museum is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. 2001 Pan American Plaza San Diego, CA 92101 - (619) 234-8291 sandiegoairandspace.org San Diego Model Railroad Museum Living up to its motto, “Bringing California’s railroad history to life,” this unique stop on your museum tour is the largest indoor exhibit of its kind in North America. Lose yourself for hours in its 27,000 square feet of model trains. 1649 El Prado #4 San Diego, CA (619) 696-0199 - sdmrm.org San Diego Performing Arts Center Referred to as San Diego’s premiere location for the performing arts, this auditorium and arts space hosts youth theater, African drumming, a charter school, and more in its 5,100-square-foot auditorium. 4579 Mission Gorge Place San Diego, CA 92120 (619) 324-7319 - sandiegopac.com
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San Diego Automotive Museum You already know that southern Californians love their cars. It’s common to see the freeways filled with high-end, luxury vehicles. However, you won’t often see historically important and impressive autos out on the road like the ones held at the museum. The dozens of vehicles exhibited here are part of the museum’s award-winning atmosphere of automotive history. 2080 Pan American Plaza San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 231-2886 - sdautomuseum.org Marston House Museum & Gardens Commissioned by George Marston and his wife, Anna, this striking example of the Arts and Crafts architectural movement was designed by William Sterling Hebbard and Irving Gill. The 8,500-square-foot home became a museum in 1987 and now hosts thousands of yearly visitors who come to walk its formal garden paths and view its historical architecture. 3525 Seventh Ave. San Diego, CA 92103 - (619) 297-9327 sohosandiego.org La Jolla Playhouse Located on the campus of UC San Diego, this non-profit professional theater, founded in 1947, has hosted Tony Award-winning plays and actors like Gregory Peck and Dorothy McGuire. 2910 La Jolla Village Dr. La Jolla, CA 92037 - (858) 550-1010 lajollaplayhouse.org San Diego Civic Theatre This elegant concert hall and theater is home to San Diego’s Broadway-style shows and events. 2016 offerings include the timeless stories of Cinderella and the Sound of Music. 1100 Third Ave. San Diego, CA 92101 - (619) 570-1100 andiegocivictheatre.org
Arts & Culture Article theme scene The Spreckles Theatre This historical building was built in 1912 and touted as “the first modern commercial playhouse west of the Mississippi.” This fixture of San Diego’s theater district strives to host the finest cultural offerings of the area. 121 Broadway #600 San Diego, CA 92101 - (619) 235-9500 spreckles.net
Whaley House Museum Located in Old Town San Diego, the Whaley House, built in 1857, is a favorite destination for haunted folklore and ghost tours. Additionally, the home itself has been lovingly restored and is a historic example of mid 19th-century architecture. 2476 San Diego Ave. San Diego, CA 92110 (619) 297-7511 - whaleyhouse.org
Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD) If it’s happening now in the art world, you can find a piece of it at MCASD. Exciting and rotating exhibits highlight what’s meaningful in contemporary art. The museum also has an ethos of bringing art to youth. For instance, everyone under the age of 25 is admitted free of charge. 1100 Kettner Blvd. San Diego, CA 92101 - (858) 454-3541 mcasd.org
San Diego Mormon Battalion Historic Site Showcasing the history of the Mormon Battalion’s military service in the Mexican-American war, this historic site’s museum is good family fun. Liveaction historical actors make history come to life. 2510 Juan St. San Diego, CA 92110 - (619) 298-3317 sandiegan.com/mormon-battalionmuseum-old-town-san-diego
Junipero Serra Museum This museum, run by the San Diego History Center, houses its collections on regional history and culture in a beautiful Spanish revival structure. Its site just above Old Town San Diego in Presidio Park is greatly important, as it is the place where Europeans first landed in California. Presidio Park, 2727 Presidio Dr. San Diego, CA 92103 - (619) 232-6203 sandiegohistory.org/serra_museum Copley Symphony Hall First opened as the Fox Theatre in 1929, this beautiful concert hall has been home to the San Diego symphony since 1984. 750 B St. San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 235-0804 sandiegosymphony.org
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Encinitas
PERMANENT VACATIONS Perhaps you have heard
Living th e Californi a
the old adage that part of
Dream
any good vacation is finding yourself wanting to move there. In San Diego, that desire is called a moment of clarity.
Sometimes life gives you inspiration; when it does, adventurers, bon vivants, and California dreamers must heed the call. Why would you want to move to San Diego – besides the year-round balmy weather, stellar beaches, famous fresh cuisine, world-class university, and healthy-lifestyle inspiration all around you? San Diego is sometimes referred to as one of the happiest cities in the world, and it’s not hard to see why. If you’re thinking of following the muse and turning your California dream into a permanent reality, you’re not alone.
East Village
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As you plan your grand move, it may help to glean some insider information about the myriad San Diego neighborhoods, plus what makes each tick: ENCINITAS If you want wide-open expanses and a giant, sprawling home, head a little up the coast to Encinitas, which lies on the northern edge of San Diego County. High home prices and larger property lots mean you’ll have room to spread out and build up your estate. What you lose in urban density, you’ll make up for in the laid-back outdoor lifestyle of this neighborhood. EAST VILLAGE If modern-luxury loft living is part of your vision, there’s plenty to choose from in this newly booming downtown neighborhood. With 14 high-rise luxury buildings and counting, you can choose a waterfront penthouse or a threebedroom loft-style condo with every possible amenity included.
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South Park
SOUTH PARK If you’re constantly chasing the bohemian life, this might be the neighborhood for you. Home to impossibly hip urban art galleries, pop-up restaurants, and a never-ending stream of cafes, coffee houses, and craft brew houses, you will feel at home here. It’s the perfect neighborhood for those who lust for vibrant culture and street life.
Living in San Diego
CORONADO If you truly want to make the wonderful feeling of a beach vacation last forever, then maybe you are ready to take the plunge and become part of an upscale, tightknit community of home owners on the Coronado Peninsula. Homes here tend toward the pricier end of San Diego real estate, not surprisingly, as this quaint village-like community has gorgeous neighborhoods and a charming ambiance. You might agree with other year-round residents that, although your commute is likely to take a bit longer than other mainland locations, Coronado is a little piece of paradise.
Life’s a beach!
Of course, while the Omni San Diego Hotel would love it if you stayed here forever, actually making the move here means you probably can’t just hang out on the beach or go to Balboa Park all day every day… or could you? What does your unique California dream look like? Will you surf every morning and work out of a constant stream of cafes? Or will you live in a grand home in the hills, where your children take horsebackriding lessons and attend world-class schools? Both visions are possible, as are many others. So join us. Come on out and create your dream life as a brand new San Diegan!
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This stretch of coastline tends to attract young and energetic crowds. There is much more to do here than sunbathe and recline.
Explore San Diego’s premiere sandy hangouts
coastal extravagance
Pacific Beach
Mission Beach
Windansea Beach
COASTAL EXTRAVAGANCE
Coronado Beach
With roughly 70 miles of picturesque coastline and year-round balmy temperatures, San Diego is known for its lovely and varied beaches. If sun-bathing, surfing, sandcastle-building, deep-sea diving, and beachcombing are on the agenda, any visit to San Diego must include a trip to the beach. At many of San Diego’s world-famous beaches, families can relax, have fun, and luxuriate in myriad amenities. Most public beaches have city lifeguards, picnic areas, restrooms, and fire pits. Even better, these beaches are beautifully maintained. The crashing of the ocean and the sound of seagulls calling to one another are the soundtrack to San Diego life; you’ll definitely want to tune in and listen. CORONADO BEACH This gorgeous resort town has some of San Diego’s highest property values, and it’s not hard to see why. The stretch of coast across the bay from downtown is consistently voted as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Spend the day luxuriating on this natural peninsula, and you’ll think you escaped to an island oasis. Coronado Beach is 50
connected to the mainland by a long sandbar as well as the famous Coronado Bridge. You can encourage the island illusion by taking the fifteen-minute scenic ferry boat ride between either the Broadway Pier or the downtown convention center and the Coronado Ferry Landing. The northernmost beach area is open to your canine companions and is a favorite for locals with pups, while the southernmost area, Silver Strand State Beach, is best for panoramic views of San Diego Bay. Coronado Central Beach has lifeguards on duty, and because of its long, flat conditions, it’s the perfect spot for wake- or skim-boarding. LA JOLLA SHORES This mile-long stretch of sandy beach is known for having the gentlest summertime waves in San Diego, making it a wonderful spot for swimmers,
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kayakers, and families with young children. The lifeguards here also have a limited number of beach wheelchairs for disabled and elderly patrons, which contribute to the relaxed, friendly, and inclusive atmosphere. La Jolla Shores boasts first-come-first-served fire pits that are available in the summer, as well as the only beachfront boat launch within San Diego’s city limits. See our feature on La Jolla on page 38. PACIFIC BEACH Between La Jolla Shores to the north and Mission Bay to the south, this stretch of coastline tends to attract young and energetic crowds. With lots of bars and nightlife in the neighborhood, as well as a three-mile long oceanfront boardwalk, there is much more to do here than sunbathe and recline – although that is also encouraged. At the northern tip
Best beaches
Solana Beach
Black’s Beach at Torrey Pines
The clientele here is made up of more locals and fewer tourists... It’s a great destination for quiet ocean lounging.
is Tourmaline Surfing Park, where beginner and expert surfers alike can find suitable waves. It’s important to note that this area is just for surfers, and swimming is discouraged for safety reasons. Just south of Tourmaline, however, the area around Crystal Pier provides a great place to fish and/or swim, and families will find the calmer waters perfect for young children. MISSION BEACH Just south of Pacific Beach’s lively scene is Mission Beach. Known for its classic seaside amusement park, Belmont Park, visitors will love the antique wooden Giant Dipper roller coaster with an ocean view. Other attractions include bumper cars, an arcade, and all the trappings of a decked-out classic boardwalk. Munch on popcorn and cotton candy or take a dip in the ocean between rides. When you need a break from the action, head southward for a wider, calmer beach setting and the entrance to the channel. Here, you can find some of the area’s best fishing spots off the Mission Bay jetty. There’s also an artificial reef complete with shipwrecks, perfect for deep-sea exploration.
WINDANSEA BEACH Say the name out loud and you will have a pretty good hint at what this beach is famous for. This rockier and steeper stretch of coast has harder breaking surf than many of the surrounding sandy beaches. It’s great for experienced surfers, but swimmers should be careful and aware of riptides. Due to its rougher conditions, this area is not popular for children, making it a great spot if peace and quiet are what you seek. Because of the sandstone rocks dotting the shores, this spot also offers superior sunbathing privacy. SOLANA BEACH The small seaside community of Solana Beach is located at the northernmost section of San Diego County. About 30 minutes from Downtown San Diego, visitors are rewarded for their drive with secluded beaches, hidden coves, and gorgeous cliffs. The clientele here is made up of more locals and fewer tourists than many of the more centrally located sandy spots. It’s a great destination for quiet ocean lounging. There are actually five main beach areas in the Solana Beach stretch of ocean, and two of the
most secluded are Seascape Beach and Del Mar Shores, which are both local favorites. Solana Beach’s shopping strip along Cedros Avenue is a great spot for eclectic shopping, antiquing, and gallery hopping. Enthusiasts will find enough shops to make a day of it. BLACK’S BEACH AT TORREY PINES With its rough and rugged paths, accessing the two-mile strip of sandy beach at the base of Torrey Pines’ majestic cliffs can be difficult, but the payoff is worth the struggle. City lifeguards patrol the majestic shores, making this a lovely place to swim. But Black’s Beach is mostly known for the Torrey Pines glider port, located just above the shores at the top of the cliffs. Windy conditions and a gorgeous natural drop-off from the cliff face create the perfect environment for air sports. You can sit below on the sand and watch experienced gliders, or you can “take the leap” and cross an item off your bucket list. Enroll in “flight school” for paragliding or hang-gliding lessons, or sign up for a tandem flight with a qualified instructor who will fly with you, making the flying experience available even to beginners. 51
All aboard the trolley! Most people think about freeways and traffic when they think of Southern California but San Diego is working hard to change that association. The city’s signature “Rapid” – comprised of transit vehicles, a fleet of buses, and even the charming vintage trolley – all contribute to a modern, comfortable, and carless way of getting you where you want to go.
1
ET AROUND G DOWNTOWN IN A REAL VINTAGE TROLLEY CAR
No, it’s not a replica. That enchanting trolley car you see making the loop around downtown San Diego is a real, souped-up relic built in 1946. Lovingly restored by Rapid’s volunteers, it makes its way around a 30-minute loop of downtown via the silver line throughout the morning and afternoon. You can board at the transit center on 12th and Imperial or at any of the other eight downtown stops. The Gaslamp Quarter stop is just steps away from the Omni Hotel San Diego.
2
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VOID FUMBLING A FOR CORRECT CHANGE BY GETTING A COMPASS CARD
Compass Cards are San Diego Transit’s all-around passport to riding the trolley, bus, or rapid transit system. You can even buy one online before your trip so you don’t waste one second enjoying all San Diego has to offer. Alternatively, you can purchase one in-person at any Albertsons store or via the vending machines at
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trolley, coaster, and sprinter stations using cash, credit, or debit. Add a specific amount to use, or choose a 1-day pass, 4-day pass, 14-day pass, or month pass. Each transit car and bus has a validator machine up front by the driver. All you need to do is tap your Compass Card, and voilà – your fare is paid.
7 pleasant surprises and tips for using San Diego transit
3
F EEL GOOD ABOUT YOUR RIDE IN AN EARTH-FRIENDLY VEHICLE
Rapid’s new vehicles are clean, efficient, and powered by natural gas. Riding the bus never felt so good.
4
M ODERN TROLLEYS ARE USER-FRIENDLY AND FAST
When staying at the Omni Hotel San Diego, the modern trolley car system is a surprisingly convenient way to get to a number of popular attractions. Again, the Gaslamp Quarter stop is just steps away. The green line takes riders all the way through the Convention Center, Seaport Village, Little Italy, Old Town, Fashion Village, and more. The orange line runs from Santa Fe Depot up to El Cajon. And the blue line makes stops from America Plaza, going down past Imperial Beach and stopping just north of Tijuana on the Mexican border.
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LEAVE THE ROUTE PLANNING TO THE PROS
If you’re not the type who likes to spend vacation time searching a map, the San Diego MTS website and app provide an automated trip-planner service. Simply visit sdmts.com/schedules-real-time/trip-planner to enter your destination and the time you want to arrive. The trip planner will give you options according to route, number of transfers, and how much walking you want to do.
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AKE THE GUESSWORK OUT T OF WAITING FOR YOUR RIDE
Each stop on a Rapid route has a number printed on the sign. Text this route number to GOMTS (46687) to immediately receive a response text containing that station’s next arrival time. Some stops are also outfitted with electronic signage, which will automatically post this information.
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S AN DIEGO TRANSIT IS ABOUT TO GO MOBILE
Slated for release in late 2016, the new SDMTS app will allow mobile ticketing. This means riders can buy and redeem transit fares using only their phones. You can also download the ‘One Bus Away’ app on iPhone or Android for real-time transit information on the go. 53
ROAD TRIP TO VEGAS
the many splendors of Interstate 15
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Side trip to Las Vegas
IF YOU’VE BEEN DAYDREAMING about booking bets on a San Diego Chargers game since driving past Qualcomm Stadium, a nonstop flight will get you to Las Vegas in one hour and 15 minutes. But you’ll have to arrive at the airport two hours early, stand in line at the TSA checkpoint, stand in line on the plane as someone tries to stuff an oversized bag into the overhead compartment, and then stand in line again to rent a car in Sin City. Save yourself some time and frustration by taking a road trip. Las Vegas lies a mere four hours and 45 minutes away via I-15N. And best of all, the route is packed with several worthy stops along the way.
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San Bernardino National Forest
SAN BERNARDINO Your best bet for food and a craft beer is BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse (bjsrestaurants.com), a San Bernardino staple since 1978. The sports bar serves salads, steaks, burgers, boneless wings, stuffed potatoes, sandwiches, chicken, pasta, and your choice of pizza – flatbread, deep-dish, or calzone. Don’t leave without trying a pizookie or three. A pizookie is a pizzashaped cookie delivered hot out of the oven, topped with two scoops of vanilla bean ice cream, and available in a variety of flavors such as chocolate chunk, white chocolate macadamia nut, cookies and cream, peanut butter, red velvet, or oatmeal raisin walnut. A trio costs $8.95, and you can even get the chocolate chip gluten free. Enjoy some of the 160 award-winning handcrafted beers while watching sports on the plethora of TVs that line the walls. Burn off those pizookies in San Bernardino National Forest, which offers easy, moderate, and difficult trails (fs.usda.gov/activity/sbnf/recreation/ hiking), including loops. Lake Arrowhead, for example, has a .5-mile loop that was designed and is maintained to accommodate the visually and physically disabled. A gentle one-mile trail leads to the “Heart Rock” overlook, where you’ll discover a 20-foot waterfall alongside a heart-shaped hole in a cliff. Tougher trails cross creeks and offer great views. From the 3.5-mile Pinnacles Trail, a clear day reveals the Mojave Desert, which you’ll pass through on your way to Las Vegas. 56
Lake Arrowhead
BARSTOW About an hour and a half from Lake Arrowhead, you’ll come upon Casa del Desierto, the allegedly haunted Harvey House. The 16-yearold Route 66 “Mother Road” Museum (route66museum.org) displays historic photos and memorabilia from the country’s most famous highway’s heyday. Current exhibits include photos from award-winning San Diego-based travel and sports photographer Blake Shaw. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and admission is free but a donation is requested. Route 66 Museum
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The Western America Railway Museum (barstowrailmuseum.org) is an authentic railroad depot that exhibits artwork, timetables, uniforms, tools, signals, track equipment, and locomotives. It’s open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. If relics make you crave comfort food and root beer floats, head to Peggy Sue’s 50’s Diner for home-cooked meatloaf, roast beef, and southern fried chicken. The diner, built in 1954 from Union Pacific railroad ties and mortar, serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and “Elvis Presley shakes and malts” seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
THE MOJAVE DESERT With another 150 miles to go until you hit the land of Elvis impersonators, you may want to explore part of the 1.6-million-acre Mojave National Preserve, which features sand dunes, volcanic formations, and Joshua tree forests. Stop at Kelso Depot Visitor Center, another old railroad depot, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day but Christmas to ask for directions to ghost towns, mountains, and canyons. Those traveling via 4-wheel drive can climb Clark Mountain’s dirt roads, wander Caruthers Canyon, or take Aiken Mine Road to a lava tube. Hikers take note: summer temperatures average 90 degrees but sometimes exceed 105. Practice safety by carrying adequate water. The Mojave Desert is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including bats, bobcats, and black widow spiders. Do you prefer to look for predators from your car rather than on your feet? Take the I-15 scenic detour. “From Kelso, turn north on Kelso-Cima Road and travel along the Providence Mountains,” says the National Park Service. “You’ll see … Joshua trees as you gain elevation up this easy grade. At Cima,
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bear right onto Morning Star Mine Road for a ride up the Ivanpah Valley. After 22 miles, turn left [onto] Nipton Road for a 4-mile drive back to I-15 just south of Primm, Nevada.” PRIMM Depending on traffic, Primm sits 40 to 55 minutes from Las Vegas. But if you need a quick gambling fix, the 400-resident community, formerly called State Line, presents Primm Valley Casino Resorts, a collection of three casinos that includes Buffalo Bill’s Casino & Hotel and Whiskey Pete’s Hotel & Casino. According to the book Weird Las Vegas and Nevada: Your Alternative Travel Guide to Sin City and the Silver State, gas station owner Pete MacIntyre turned to bootlegging to make money in the 1920s – thus, the moniker “Whiskey Pete.” After workers accidentally exhumed his dead body while building a bridge from Whiskey Pete’s Hotel & Casino to Buffalo Bill’s Casino & Hotel, he was reportedly moved to one of the caves in which he made his moonshine. At Primm Valley Casino Resorts, you can play slots and table games or place sports bets. Download the A-Play Sports app to make wagers for every game from anywhere in Nevada.
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Hit the haunts in historic
OLD TOWN and Little Italy THE FIRST SAN DIEGANS were the Kumeyaay Native American tribe. On July 16, 1769, during colonization, Father Junípero Serra, a Roman Catholic Spanish priest and friar, set up a temporary church on Presidio Hill to provide shelter from tribe attacks and foreign invasions. This became the first of 21 missions that were built between 1769 and 1833. Catholic priests created the missions to educate and convert the natives. To be self-sufficient, missions raised cattle, sheep, horses, mules, and goats for meat, leather, and wool. They also grew barley, maize, and wheat, which they ground into flour; planted fruit seeds from Europe to harvest apples, oranges, peaches, pears, and figs; and fermented grapes into wine for sacramental rites and trading. Nearly 250 years after the first mission was constructed, the mission system continues to influence California culture and economics, especially in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, a 29-acre park that preserves the area’s heritage. On the next page are some can’t-miss places for architecture and history buffs who love Mexican food and margaritas. 61
Old Town and Little Italy
If you don’t hear the troubadour and smell the carne asada, you’ll spot ponytailed senoritas in colorful, flouncy dresses serving spicy salsa and handmade tortillas on the festive patio
CASA GUADALAJARA Get your first taste of Old Town at the north entrance. You can’t miss Casa Guadalajara (casaguadalajara.com) at the corner of Taylor Street and Juan Street. If you don’t hear the troubadour and smell the carne asada, you’ll spot ponytailed senoritas in colorful, flouncy dresses serving spicy salsa and handmade tortillas on the festive patio. After you’ve decided whether to sit beneath the stained glass ceiling or the multicolored umbrellas, sample Mexican street food from the complimentary buffet and try one of the cantina’s 50 most popular tequilas. Before you go, buy your love a souvenir from Casa Guadalajara’s paper flower cart or feed each other fried ice cream. JUNIPERO SERRA MUSEUM This Spanish Revival-style structure was built on the site of California’s first mission to commemorate the man who founded it and was later canonized. You can see artifacts from the first settlement on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., but the San Diego History Center-run museum sometimes closes early or stays closed for special events, such as weddings. Visit sandiegohistory. org/serra_museum before you go. WHALEY HOUSE According to whaleyhouse.org, more than 100,000 people per year visit this museum, a classic example of mid-nineteenth-century Greek Revival architecture. Part of its popularity is probably its eerie reputation: countless TV programs and publications have said it’s haunted. In fact, it’s one of two certified haunted houses in California, and the Travel Channel’s America’s Most Haunted named it the most haunted house in the United States. Regardless of who’s moved in since its construction, Thomas Whaley was proud of his handiwork and predicted that it would be “the handsomest, most comfortable, and convenient place in town or within 150 miles of here.”
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THE CONCIERGE | Omni San Diego
OLD TOWN MARKET From Mexican wrestling masks to margarita taffy, t-shirts to turquoise jewelry, paintings to pottery, you’ll find something colorful calling your name at the Old Town Market. Shops open at 10 a.m. daily. Closing times vary throughout the year, so check with your concierge before you go. Visit oldtownmarketsandiego .com/parking for free parking locations and plan to spend a few hours shopping, dining, and drinking. Old Town Mexican Café’s house specials include traditionalstyle carnitas, rotisserie chicken, and pork ribs, but vegetarians will feel at home here, too, with options such as bean burritos, spinach enchiladas, and potato-filled taquitos. Whatever your diet is, you’ll be remiss if you don’t try a bloody Maria. CAFÉ COYOTE Café Coyote has earned 2,908 Yelp reviews, 1,843 TripAdvisor reviews, and 478 Google reviews for its tasty margaritas and fresh tortillas served with salsa and butter. Specialties include chili colorado, a pork dish cooked in southwestern chili sauce; margarita chicken, which is marinated and charbroiled; and chicken breast that’s served atop Mexican-style rice topped with jalapeño cream sauce. If you’re thirsty, try a glass of tequila, which “can be sipped and enjoyed like a fine scotch or brandy,” according to cafecoyoteoldtown.com, where the restaurant lists 100 varieties. EL AGAVE TEQUILERIA Seeing double? Your eyes aren’t deceiving you. The tequila bottles that line the walls here are stacked so high that your knowledgeable bartender will need a stool to reach the top shelf. The Zagat-rated, white-tablecloth restaurant boasts 2,000 varieties of tequila, from Acumbaro Blanco to Zircon Azul Reposado. Check out the whole list at elagave.com/#theMenu.
Old Town and Little Italy
Sit at an ocean-view table and pair a tequila flight with the sea bass ajo y achiote, a Mayan dish served in a garlicchipotle chili sauce, or the sea bass mac cum negro, a filet cooked with pasilla chilis, bell peppers, and spices. El Agave’s fish is so fresh you’ll swear your server reeled it in after taking your order. FIESTA DE REYES At Fiesta de Reyes, you’ll find a collection of 19 restaurants and boutiques such as Silver Lily, an artisanmade jewelry shop, and Old Town Jerky & Root Beer. Tienda de Reyes sells Mexican folk art and “the largest selection of Day of the Dead art and apparel in San Diego,” per fiestadereyes. com/tienda-de-reyes. To see folklore in action, grab a bench in front of the plaza stage, which features mariachi bands and dancers every day of the week. Ask your concierge, or visit casadereyesrestaurant. com/entertainment for days and times. If you’ve never been to an Old West saloon, belly up to the bar at Barra Barra Saloon or take a pitcher of cerveza to the patio, where two fire pits will keep you warm on a chilly evening. Hungry? Stop at La Panaderia, a delicious Mexican-style bakery. GHOST TOURS If you’re still in Old Town past sundown, go on a ghost tour 64
with Haunted San Diego Ghost Tours (hauntedsandiegotours. com/) or Old Town’s Most Haunted (oldtownsmosthaunted.com), which is run by a ghost hunter who’s appeared on the Travel Channel’s “Ghost Adventures” show. From 10:30 p.m. to midnight, the Whaley House Museum staff and San Diego Ghost Hunters (thesandiegoghosthunters.com) will tell you ghost stories as you use paranormal investigation tools and techniques to track down restless spirits. GHOSTS AND GRAVESTONES El Campo Santo Cemetery was established in 1849.Forty years later, bodies were relocated and parts of the cemetery were paved over for a streetcar line that became a road in 1942. Spirits are still voicing their displeasure. For more information, visit ghostsandgravestones.com. WHILE YOU’RE ON THIS SIDE OF TOWN Little Italy lies less than four miles from Old Town, so you may want to start or end your day there. Try breakfast burritos and pastries at Stephanie’s starting at 10 a.m. on Saturdays, or hit Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market where, every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., rain or shine, 200 vendors serve
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smoothies, crepes, paninis, produce, poultry, meat, and fish. You can also buy spices, flowers, and coffee beans. Bird Rock Coffee Roasters, James Coffee Co., Heartsleeves Coffee, Café Zucchero, Caffe Italia, and Influx can caffeinate you enough to last the day. Little Italy also hosts events such as an annual Christmas tree-lighting ceremony, art walks, a summer film festival, and FESTA!, the largest Italian cultural festival on the West Coast, according to littleitalysd.com. More than 70 clothing stores, jewelry shops, salons, art galleries, and florists call the hilly Little Italy neighborhood home. For the ultimate souvenir, take a calavera class (where you can craft sugar into skull shapes a la the famous Mexican tradition of Dia de los Muertos); make coiled basketry, papel picado, or paper flowers; or take a painting class at Casa Artelexia (artelexia.com), a father-daughter-owned shop that offers handcrafted Mexican gifts, art, and home décor. Feeling brave? Get tattooed at Bearcat Tattoo Gallery (bearcattattoo. com). Or peer into your future with a visit to Psychic Readings by Silvia (littleitalysd.com/go/psychic-readings-bysilvia). Both San Diego Indian Motorcycle (sandiegoindian.com) and Electric Bike Central (electricbikecentral.com) can help you get there.
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San Diego’s
COFFEE TRAIL
If you have a coffee mug that warns others not to speak to you until you’re caffeinated, you’ll fit in just fine in San Diego, where roasters and baristas have reaped hundreds of reviews from fans.
You also arrived at peak season.The nonprofit news organization Voice of San Diego wrote in February 2016 that the city’s coffee scene “is having a moment.” So, much like the gourmet cupcake craze that swept the country several years ago, you can find a café on just about every street corner in San Diego. Here are our top picks.
A KICK START at Krakatoa If you tend to look like the sternfaced tiki on Krakatoa’s logo when you wake up, stop by 1128 25th Street for a pre-workout pick-me-up. The shop is named after a volcanic island, so your best bet is the smoky mocha, an espresso brewed with smoky black tea leaves, steamed milk, chocolate, cinnamon, ancho chili peppers, and cayenne. The shop stays open until 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, so the fig-tree shaded patio also makes a tempting place to wind down with a delectable dessert. Krakatoa bakes cakes, cookies, and vegan and gluten-free treats on site. CULTURE AND CREATIVITY at Coffee & Art Got a craving for something caffeinated from south of the border but don’t have time to leave the Gaslamp Quarter? Coffee & Art’s owners lived all over the world before opening their café in 2009. Try their Mexican coffee, which comes with cinnamon, nutmeg, chocolate, and agave syrup. Sip it over an acai bowl, with strudel or a croissant, while sitting on the patio or checking out the artwork.
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COFFEE WITH A CONSCIENCE at Bird Rock Coffee Roasters Bird Rock Coffee Roasters’ organic and fair-trade coffee made Coffee Review: The World’s Leading Coffee Guide’s Top 30 Coffees of 2015 list for a reason. Actually, a few reasons. It obtains responsibly sourced beans from the likes of Ethiopia, Uganda, Bolivia, and Sumatra; it develops relationships with farmers; and it only sells coffee that’s in season, so its menu always changes. Visit 2295 Kettner Boulevard and try the Monkey Bite Espresso, a sweet, mediumbodied blend of beans from Africa, Indonesia, and South America mixed with caramel, cocoa, and candied citrus. You’ll be delighted by the bright, syrupy result and the fact you’re supporting a company that partners with non-profits to promote change. IT’S ALL ABOUT THE BEANS at James Coffee Co. Like Bird Rock, James Coffee Co. at 2355 India Street revolves its selection of single-origin beans and crafted blends. Once you sip the single origin pour-over, the honey and cinnamon espresso, or the Headless Horseman pumpkin latte, you’re sure to join the artisan roaster’s more than 23,000 Instagram followers, 5,000 Facebook fans, and 3,000 Twitter groupies.
THE CONCIERGE | Omni San Diego
DRAMA-FREE JAVA at Copa Vida You’ve got places to go and things to do. Copa Vida understands and stays out of your way. From 7 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Monday through Friday, fill up at the selfservice honor bar, deposit what you owe in the designated cup, and carpe diem. If you have time to chill, order the much-lauded croque madame sandwich with ham, caramelized onions, tomato, Swiss cheese, egg, and Béarnaise sauce. Its predecessor, the croquet monsieur (which is basically the same thing minus the egg) has appeared on Parisian café menus since 1910. It’s almost as classic as coffee. LATE-NIGHT LATTE at Lestat’s Coffee House You wouldn’t expect a neighborhood named Normal Heights to have a place called Lestat’s Coffee House, but there it is at 3343 Adams Avenue in all its gargoyle-y glory. Of course, such an establishment has a sense of humor, so it hosts comedy nights in addition to live music and open mic poetry. If you aren’t in the mood for the festivities, there’s plenty of space for you to escape the stage and rest – er, relax – in peace. Try traditional coffees or hot chocolate and take home local artists’ works, which adorn the walls alongside movie posters. Wherever you wind up, you’ll be sure to blaze a trail of your own by the time you leave. Put that coffee buzz to good use and explore Old Town, Little Italy, Balboa Park, and San Diego’s other gems.
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. The Wine Bank .
Sevilla
Blind. . Burro Watergrill Moonshine Flat . Eye . .BrokenCat Yolk . Meze Lucky .
J STREET
Residence Inn .
. . Cine Carne Prima . Union Soleil @ K Cafe Gaslamp Donovan’s & Altitude Bar Flemings . . Rockin Baja Lobster . . Garage . . Gaslamp Marriott K STREET . . . Hilton Toscana . . Old Spaghetti Factory Subway Le Chic Gaslamp Mac . Nails . Mary Janes Eyes On 5th . Hard . Starbucks 6th & K Rock Lou & Mickeys. Parkade Hotel. . Nobu . L STREET . Omni Tin Fish
.
JSix &
. JBar
Oceanaire
. Room .
. Hotel Solamar
8TH AVE.
. Chase ATM
7TH AVE.
Bike Revolution . . Tivoli ISLAND AVENUE . . . Sovereign Berkley Omnia . Courtyard Pizza . The Nolan
5TH AVE.
4TH AVE.
3RD AVE.
2ND AVE.
1ST AVE.
Front Street
Grand Theatre
. Taka
6TH AVE.
My Yogurt . . The . Field Dublin Square . . Shawarma . Suki Day Spa Nippon Sushi . W.H. Burger. Fluxx . Davis . House Lounge .Horton . B of A Sketchers . OTT Grand Hotel ★ . Bice Oakley G-Star . . Reebok . Quicksilver . Horton . Las Hadas
7-11
. Bub’s
Padres Baseball
Petco Park
McCormick & Schmick’s
Updated 7/2016
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