Lotus Thai

Happy Hour 7 days a week

Extensive beer, wine, sake and SOJU cocktails selections

RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED LOTUSTHAISD.COM | 619 595 0115 Downtown | 906 Market Street | San Diego | 92101 enchiladas and flautas in town. 4105 Taylor St., Old Town, 619.295.5111 Map M13

HARNEY SUSHI > Sushi $$$

Find tasty sushi and fun specialty rolls with a molecular gastronomy twist at this groovy haunt. Popular rolls include the Chuck Norris, Mellow Yellow, Bomb James Bomb, and the spicy I Dare You. 3964 Harney St., Old Town, 619.295.3272 Map J10

JACK & GIULIO’S > Italian $$

Known for its scampi, spaghetti and meatballs, and other traditional dishes, this Italian spot has an old-school bistro vibe—complete with retro redlinen tablecloths in the dining room. 2391 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.294.2074 Map N14

MIGUEL’S COCINA

> Mexican $$

Family-owned chain boasts five San Diego locations, but the lively Old Town outpost is our favorite. We love the fried chimichanga, pollo asado burrito and seriously addictive queso dip. 2444 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.298.9840 Map N13

OLD TOWN MEXICAN CAFE

> Mexican $$

Old Town staple of 40 years is famous for its hand-pressed tortillas, which you can see being made through the front window. A festive atmosphere and traditional Mexican dishes await; try the chicken verde enchiladas. 2489 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.297.4330 Map N13

SUSHI TADOKORO

> Japanese $$$

Unassuming spot in a small strip mall has a Michelin star for its exquisite Japanese plates and Edomae sushi preparations using house recipes; plus sake and beer. 2244 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.297.0298 Map N14

TAHONA > Mexican $$$

This modern Mexican restaurant and mezcal bar boasts 120plus different mezcals. The food menu centers on Oaxacaninspired seasonal dishes, such as slow-braised beef in a banana leaf, grilled octopus with mole, and soft-shell crab tacos. 2414 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.255.2090 Map N14

Museum Marvel

The works of two iconic artists arrive at San Diego Museum of Art in an exciting exhibition, O’Keeffe and Moore, on view through Aug. 27. Both pioneering modernists, Georgia O’Keeffe was known for her paintings of landscapes and enlarged flowers; while Henry Moore was known for his semi-abstract bronze sculptures. Showcasing 120 works, the exhibit also recreates their studios—complete with original found objects, furnishings and tools. 1450 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.7931

Attractions

ARTS DISTRICT LIBERTY STATION Liberty Station’s designated Arts District is home to unique museums, working artist studios, performing arts outfits, art galleries and exhibits, gardens, luxury cinemas, myriad restaurants and outdoor space.  2825 Dewey Road, Liberty Station, 619.573.9300 Map J8

BELMONT PARK A beachfront landmark since 1925, Belmont Park is quintessential San Diego. Explore attractions, rides, arcades and restaurants. Highlights include the vintage Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster and the large Plunge pool. 3146 Mission Blvd., Mission Beach, 858.228.9283 Map I8

BIRCH AQUARIUM

AT SCRIPPS Explore one of the nation’s largest oceanographic museums—filled with marine life habitats and family-friendly exhibits—and enjoy a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean from the tidepool plaza. 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, 858.534.3474 Map U20

CABRILLO NATIONAL

MONUMENT The landmark monument commemorates the historic landing of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo at S.D Bay on Sept. 28, 1542. Nearby: whale watching, tidepools, trails, the Old Point Loma Lighthouse and city/ocean views. Open daily 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Drive, Point Loma, 619.557.5450 Map L8

LEGOLAND Kid-focused theme park and family vacation destination boasts 60-plus rides, attractions and shows; Sea Life Aquarium’s 7-foot-long Lego submarine; and a water park featuring a wave pool, the Builda-Raft River, Soak-n-Sail shipwrecked pirate vessel and much more. 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, 760.918.5346 Map U22

SAN DIEGO BOTANIC

GARDEN Roam 37 acres of lush gardens, a rainforest, children’s areas, trails and the Dickinson Family Education Conservatory —home to a 15-foot living wall and floating plant islands—plus seasonal exhibits, events and themed holiday experiences.  230 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas, 760.436.3036 Map V22

Guidelines

Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps on pages 48-51. The list includes editor’s recommendations and advertisers.

SAN DIEGO CENTRAL

LIBRARY The main branch of the San Diego Public Library is a stunner The massive, lightfilled, mostly glass building offers floors of books, an art gallery, open-air terrace and more.  330 Park Blvd., East Village, 619.236.5800 Map Q17

SAN DIEGO ZOO Opened in 1916, the world-famous zoo houses 4,000 rare and endangered animals across a charming, 100-acre park—known for its gorgeous inclined walking trails, Skyfari aerial tram, Elephant Odyssey exhibit, conservation efforts, seasonal special events and holiday-themed experiences. Private zoo tours are also available. Free parking. Open daily 2920 Zoo Drive, Balboa Park, 619.231.1515 Map O17

SAN DIEGO ZOO SAFARI PARK Go on a safari through the 1,800–acre preserve, home to herds of exotic animals roaming in vast enclosures resembling African and Asian plains. Experiences include the Sun-Up Cheetah Safari, where you can see a cheetah run at top speed. 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, 760.747.8702 Map C3

SEAWORLD The 189-acre, aquatic theme park features marine animals, fish, reptiles, birds, family-friendly exhibits, thrilling aquatic rides and roller coasters (including the popular Emperor dive coaster), special events and even food festivals.  500 Sea World Drive, Mission Bay Park, 800.257.4268 Map I8

SESAME PLACE

This Sesame Street-inspired family theme park features 18 rides, (including a kid-friendly roller coaster), waterslides and a 500,000-gallon wave pool; plus shows, games, parades and more. Take a stroll through the interactive Sesame Street neighborhood and meet all your favorite furry friends. 2052 Entertainment Circle, Chula Vista, 619.943.3566 Map F4

TORREY HOLISTICS

San Diego’s premier recreational cannabis dispensary is a fullservice store and more—offering a wide range of products and consultations with seasoned experts who can help with issues from insomnia to anxiety. (They also deliver right to your home or hotel.)  10671 Roselle St., #100, Sorrento Valley, 858.558.1420 Map D2

Casinos

HARRAH’S RESORT SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Renovated property features a 21-story hotel tower; Dive Day Club, with several pools and a lazy river; Spiked cocktail lounge; and Hell’s Kitchen and Salt & Fin restaurants.

Daily, 24 hours.  777 Harrah’s Rincon Way, Valley Center, 760.751.3100 Map B4

PALA RESORT AND CASINO

The sprawling property features 2, 250 state-of-the-art slots and video machines; 85 Vegas-style gaming tables; live entertainment; eight restaurants and two lounges; a posh spa; and luxe overnight accommodations.

Daily, 24 hours.  11154 Hwy. 76, Pala, 760.510.5100 Map A3

SYCUAN CASINO RESORT

Find high-stakes bingo, pai gow poker, slots, 10 restaurants (including Bull & Bourbon), live entertainment, a 500-seat theater and more at this renovated casino—also boasting a luxe resort and spa. Daily, 24 hours.  5469 Casino Way, El Cajon, 619.445.6002 Map D5

VALLEY VIEW CASINO

High-limit blackjack, 2,000 slots, the Black & Blue Steakhouse, a Maine lobster buffet served nightly, a 24-hour cafe, three bars, and separate nonsmoking gaming and bar areas. Daily, 24 hours.  16300 Nyemii Pass Road, Valley Center, 760.291.5500 Map B4

VIEJAS CASINO Alpine casino features 2,500 Vegas–style slots, table games, satellite wagering, high-stakes bingo, six restaurants, concerts and live entertainment, and more. Daily, 24 hours.  5000 Willows Road, Alpine, 800.847.6537 Map D5

Wineries

BERNARDO WINERY

Founded in 1889, it’s the oldest operating winery in SoCal— family-owned and -operated. The property features a spacious tasting room, shops, galleries, The Kitchen restaurant and a craft coffee house.  13330 Paseo del Verano Norte, Rancho Bernardo, 858.487.1866 Map C4

BLUE DOOR URBAN

WINERY While known for its outpost in Julian, we love this urban locale, which also houses a full production facility where guests can witness (and even try) the wine-making process firsthand. The housemade sangria is a must.  4060 Morena Blvd., Linda Vista, 858.274.4292 Map I10

CARRUTH CELLARS WINE

GARDEN Sip selections by the bottle, glass or flight at this indoor/outdoor oasis. Carruth also offers cheeses, charcuterie and gourmet pantry items.  2710 Historic Decatur Road, Liberty Station, 619.546.9300 Map J9

FRUITCRAFT It’s a kombuchery, cidery, meadery, distillery, modern winery and event space—all housed in an airy, contemporary building. Try creative wine flights from dry to sweet; plus craft beer, fruitforward cocktails and more. We suggest the dry pineapple wine. Food menu includes tacos and flatbreads.  1477 University Ave., Hillcrest, 877.484.6282 Map N17

GIANNI BUONOMO

VINTNERS Keith Rolle’s converted antique store by the beach sources its grapes from the Sierra foothills and Washington State. Tasting room features repurposed French Oak wine barrel heads and antique jewelry cases renovated into tasting bars.  4836 Newport Ave., Ocean Beach, 619.991.9911 Map J8

LJ CRAFTED WINES Simple, straightforward tasting room that supports a zero-waste lifestyle. This means smallbatch, high-end Napa and Sonoma wines served directly from the barrel and poured into reusable growlers to-go.  5621 La Jolla Blvd., La Jolla, 858.551.8890 Map X19

MENGHINI WINERY This boutique Julian winery—nestled in the rolling foothills of Volcan Mountain ans surrounded by scenic apple orchards—produces just 4,000 cases of syrah, sauvignon blanc, riesling and cabernet sauvignon annually Tasting room is open daily 1150 Julian Orchards Drive, Julian, 760.765.2072 Map C6

NEGOCIANT WINERY

This neighborhood gem makes its own craft wines on-site in an urban-industrial space. The tasting menu is heavy in reds, with an offering of guest wines, draft wines and ciders. 1263 University Ave., Hillcrest, 619.535.1747 Map J12

ORFILA VINEYARDS

TASTING ROOM It’s a modern, sleek tasting room (vineyards are in Escondido) with industrial ceilings and hanging lightbulbs. Try the Estate Lotus blend, paired with a selection of charcuterie and artisanal cheeses. 221 N. Cleveland St., Oceanside, 760.755.7040 Map S22

PALI WINE CO. Urban wine bar and tasting room specializes in chardonnay and pinot noir from the Central Coast. Chase a charcuterie board with a wine flight on the rooftop deck overlooking the neighborhood, boasting San Diego Bay views. 2130 India St., Little Italy, 619.569.1300 Map P15

SOLTERRA WINERY & KITCHEN The property comprises a 1,600-square-foot tasting room (originally built in 1957) and a 3,400-square-foot winery, plus outdoor seating, a fire pit and house-label wines on tap Try the 2017 sauvignon blanc and 2018 malbec. 934 N. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.230.2970 Map V22

VINO CARTA Casual wine bar and bottle shop offers retail wine sales and wines by the glass, with a focus on natural wines and boutique, familyrun producers; plus light bites and special events. Try the 2017 Matthiason rosé from Napa. 2161 India St., Little Italy, 619.564.6589 Map P15

Beer Halls

BALLAST POINT BREWING COMPANY The sprawling brewery and indoor/outdoor tasting room is all about “coastal breezes and patio pints.” Choose from at least 30 craft brews on tap; plus a full-service kitchen serving sandwiches, salads and seafood.  2215 India St., Little Italy, 619.255.7213 Map P15

BELCHING BEAVER

BREWERY The brewery’s dogfriendly Oceanside locale boasts an industrial-style tap room. Popular pours include the Peanut Butter Milk Stout and Hazers Gonna Haze Hazy IPA. 1334 Rocky Point Drive, Oceanside, 760.732.1415 Map J12

CORONADO BREWING CO.

The family-friendly brewpub serves house beers, bar fare, tacos, wood-fired pizzas and pastas. Wash it down with the Idiot IPA, Weekend Vibes IPA or the Stupid Stout.  170 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.4452 Map L10

NOLITA HALL European-style, elevated beer hall has soaring ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows. Try a pour from the lengthy draft list, which offers nearly two dozen locally brewed beers; plus gastropub-style fare. 2305 India St., Little Italy, 619.255.8000 Map P15

SECOND CHANCE BEER

LOUNGE Outpost by local brewer Second Chance Beer Co. is a dog-friendly, urban warehouse-style space in the heart of North Park—offering brand staples, rotating seasonal pours and lounge-exclusive beers. The Mulligan amber ale and Buddy lager are excellent.  4045 30th St., North Park, 619.487.1470 Map J12

SOCIETE BREWING CO.

The brewer’s spacious tasting room and beer garden is a locals’ favorite—known for its rustic feel and Belgian-style and barrel-aged beers. 8262 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., Kearny Mesa, 858.598.5409 Map G11

STONE BREWING WORLD

BISTRO & GARDENS Hip gastropub and brewery features a huge outdoor patio with water features and plenty of the world-famous company’s beers. Try the Ruined Again Triple IPA. 2816 Historic Decatur Road, Liberty Station, 619.269.2100 Map J9

THORN ST. BREWERY

Regulars’ favorites include The Menace, a stiff Imperial IPA at 9.7% ABV; and the Chilecabra pale ale. A homey tasting room up front opens to a back patio with retractable roof overlooking the urban-style brewing area. 3176 Thorn St., North Park, 619.230.5445 Map J12

WORKING CLASS Find local and regional beers and diner-style comfort food at this indoor/outdoor outpost. Draft list is cleverly sectioned into “Easier Drinking,” “Hops, Hops, Hops,” “Malts,” “Fruity or Sour” and “Coming Soon.” 4095 30th St., North Park, 619.642.0114 Map J12

Arts

bottle service and V.I.P. booths with velvet ropes.  615 Broadway, downtown, 619.727.6789

Map Q16

POLITE PROVISIONS Find tonics, elixirs and cures in the form of craft libations at this sleek, apothecary-inspired bar with an atrium-style roof.  4696 30th St., North Park, 619.269.4701 Map J12

THE POOL HOUSE Pendry

San Diego hotel’s glamorous rooftop pool deck offers dramatic city views, frozen cocktails and classic libations such as the mojito. Guests can reserve a private cabana and order bottle service.  435 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.738.7200 Map Q16

RAISED BY WOLVES

Stylish speakeasy hidden behind a bottle shop channels an opulent library, known for its creative cocktails and mysterious vibe.  Westfield UTC, 4301 La Jolla Village Drive, #2030, UTC, 619.629.0243 Map T21

THE ROOFTOP BY STK

The massive rooftop bar and pool lounge at the Andaz Hotel is perfect for a sunset cocktail with a side of panoramic downtown views.  600 F St., Gaslamp, 619.814.2002 Map Q16

WOLFIE’S CAROUSEL BAR

Chic spot houses an actual carnival-size carousel with seating that slowly revolves around it; plus French cocktails and bistro fare.  2401 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.255.7533 Map P15

YOUNG BLOOD Hip, intimate speakeasy with 30 velveted seats serves an exclusive menu of about six selections, and they’re some of the city’s best cocktails. Try the “Dealer’s Choice.”  777 G St., East Village, 619.446.0002 Map Q16

MUSEUMS

CALIFORNIA SURF MUSEUM

Peruse an impressive collection of surfing artifacts, photography, literature and memorabilia; plus exhibits that detail the lives and achievements of worldrenowned surfing legends.  312 Pier View Way, Oceanside, 760.721.6876 Map S22

CENTRO CULTURAL DE LA

RAZA Celebrate Mexican, Chicano and indigenous art and culture with vibrant murals, art exhibits and performances.  2004 Park Blvd., Balboa Park, 619.363.1372 Map P17

CORONADO MUSEUM OF HISTORY AND ART

Galleries of historical memorabilia reveal Coronado’s rich past and interesting fun facts, including rare black-and-white photos.  1100 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.7242 Map L10

FLEET SCIENCE CENTER

Its interactive science galleries (housing 100-plus exhibits) lets science lovers of all ages explore the wonders of astronomy and physics; plus a stateof-the-art IMAX Dome Theater. 1875 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.238.1233 Map O17

GREEN DRAGON MUSEUM

Peruse rare historical documents, newspapers and memorabilia from the Revolutionary War era inside a Colonial-style building; on-site restaurant serves New England-style plates like fish ‘n’ chips and has a weekday happy hour 6115 Paseo del Norte, Carlsbad, 760.918.2421 Map U22

INSTITUTE OF CONTEMPORARY ART, SAN DIEGO

Museum-meets-studio lets visitors see artists-in-residence as they work, along with their forthcoming exhibits; plus education programs, art camps for kids and more. 1550 S. El Camino Real, Encinitas, 760.436.6611 Map V22

MARITIME MUSEUM OF SAN DIEGO

At this worldrenowned floating museum, visit the 1863 barque Star of India (world’s oldest active ship); the 1898 steam ferryboat Berkeley; the 1904 steam yacht Medea; a Soviet-era submarine; and the HMS Surprise, the Royal Navy frigate featured in the film Master and Commander The schooner Californian also offers half-day sailing trips.  1492 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.234.9153 Map P15

MARSTON HOUSE

Famous Craftsman-style house, designed by renowned architects William Hebbard and Irving Gill in 1905, is one of San Diego’s most iconic buildings. The famous estateturned-museum features period furnishings, pottery, gardens and an Indian basketry collection.  3525 Seventh Ave., Balboa Park, 619.297.9327 Map O16

MINGEI INTERNATIONAL

MUSEUM Featuring celebrating folk art, cultures around the museum has under million remodel. Enjo space, a dedicated center for K-12 students, ater, library, courtyard, a gift shop, dining and 1439 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.0003 Map

MISSION SAN DIEGO DE ALCALÁ Also an activ church, this landmark the first of 21 missions north along the Calif

This one was established Father Junípero Serr Presidio Hill and mo site in 1774.  10818 San Diego Mission Road, Mission Valley, 619.281.8449 Map

MUSEUM OF CONTEM

PORARY ART SAN DIEGO (MCASD) Modern features post-1950s many genres and media. La Jolla recently underw an extensive expansion.  Kettner Blvd., downtown, Map Q15; 700 Prospect St., La Jolla, Map W19; 858.454.3541

MUSEUM OF MAKING

MUSIC Check out instruments and interactive audio and visual exhibits that explore the history of American popular music, including how instruments are made, used and sold.

5790 Armada Drive, Carlsbad, 760.438.5996 Map U23

MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS Boundarypushing collection includes contemporary photography, social documentary and photojournalism; plus regularly rotating exhibits and film screenings.  1649 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.238.7559 Map O17

MUSEUM OF US This cultural anthropology museum explores cultures from around the world, focusing on the human experience in an effort to inspire deeper human connection and spark meaningful conversations. It’s also home to the landmark California Tower, which offers tours to the top.  1350 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.2001 Map O17

NEW CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

Mod museum designed by Rob Quigley stimulates kids’ imaginations with interactive exhibits. 200 W. Island Ave., downtown, 619.233.8792 Map Q16