FALL 2015 WHERESD.COM
San Diego 速
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SPAS AND SALONS FOR HEAD-TO-TOE PAMPERING CATCHING UP WITH DESIGNER TADASHI SHOJI BREAKFAST AND BRUNCH SPOTS FOR EVERY TASTE
FALL
FASHION FORECAST STEP OUT IN STYLE THIS SEASON WITH TIPS FROM TOP LOCAL BOUTIQUES
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SAN.ORG/NEW SAN DIEGO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Explore a brand new destination before you fly. With all new shopping and dining at San Diego International Airport, you’ll find everything from pad thai to Swedish massage and headline news to craft brews. There are as many paths as there are travelers. It’s your trip. Go your way.
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where san diego
fall 2015
CONTENTS
THE FALL FASHION & BEAUTY ISSUE
departments
the guide
5 Editor’s Note
38 DINING Restaurants by cuisine and neighborhood
Remembering a dear friend.
7 Hot Dates Fashion Week, S.D. Film Fest, Little Italy Festa and more.
55 ENTERTAINMENT Special events, performing arts, casinos and sports
72 30 Things We Love Hot-air balloon rides over Del Mar, Sunset Cliffs and more.
61 ATTRACTIONS + MUSEUMS Theme parks, activities and exhibitions
where now 8 Dining
63 SHOPPING The county’s best malls and major retail destinations
Rustic Root, Sovereign Vietnamese Kitchen & Bar, and Veladora at Rancho Valencia.
64 NIGHTLIFE Hot dance clubs, laid-back lounges and cool cocktail bars
10 Q+A Talking fashion and travel with women’s clothing designer extraordinaire, Tadashi Shoji.
66 TOURS + TRANSPORT Getting out, getting around and getting an insider’s look at the city
12 Spa+Beauty
CITY TOURS
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spas and salons for head-to-toe pampering catching up with designer tadashi shoji breakfast and brunch spots for every taste
fall
fashion forecast step out in style this season with tips from top local boutiques
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ON THE COVER Style icon and fashion designer Tadashi Shoji creates elegant pieces that make women feel beautiful. Pictured here is a model wearing his capelet dress.
features 16 Fall Fashion Forecast Top five tips for stepping out in style in San Diego this season—straight from the city’s trendsetting boutiques.
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BY SARAH DAOUST
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20 Wake-Up Call San Diego takes the most important meal of the day very seriously. Whether for breakfast or brunch, we rounded up new, fabulous and unexpected spots to fuel up in the morning.
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Chef Kurt Metzger is doing cool things at Kitchen 4140.
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BY SARAH DAOUST
CONNECT WITH US ONLINE
Downtown La Jolla Beach Cities Uptown North Coast Balboa Park
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Where to go to get glowing from head to toe this fall.
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EXPERIENCE DEL MAR PLAZA
EXTRAORDINARY OCEAN-VIEW SHOPPING, DINING AND ENTERTAINMENT. Shop, dine and drink it all in at the corner of 15th and Camino Del Mar. Shops Banana Republic Bijou Del Mar Art Center Del Mar Hat Co. Erik Skoldberg Gallery Garys Studio Loghman Jewelers Lorna Jane Made In Earth Michael Seewald Galleries Ooh La La Peaches En Regalia Sunglass Hut Urban Beach House Urban Girl Accessories
Restaurants Agave Del Mar Del Mar Rendezvous Enoteca Del Fornaio Il Fornaio MOLA Spanish Bistro Pacifica Breeze Café Pacifica Del Mar SHIMBASHI Izakaya Smashburger Services Del Mar Nails & Spa Folio Haim, Ltd. Salon Pacific Shore Platinum
1 5 5 5 C A M I N O D E L M A R, D E L M A R, CA • W W W. D E L M A RPL A Z A . CO M
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SAN DIEGO
MAGAZINE
PUBLISHER EDITOR
Jeff Levy
Sarah Daoust
ART DIRECTOR
Carol Wakano
EDITOR IN CHIEF
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Kerry Brewer, Joanna McLean Stickel, Richard Blankley, Heather Heintz, Julie Hoffman, Jessica Levin Poff, Heather Price CIRCULATION MANAGER Lisa Kelley PRODUCTION MANAGER Dawn Kiko Cheng WEB MANAGER Christina Xenos MARKETING MANAGER Anna Ciric BUSINESS MANAGER
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3990 Old Town Ave., Suite B200 San Diego, CA 92110 Phone: 619.260.5599 Fax: 619.260.5598 EMAIL Advertising JLevy@WhereSD.com Editorial Editor@WhereSD.com Art Art@WhereSD.com Production Ads@WhereSD.com Website Christina.Xenos@WhereSD.com Circulation Lisa.Kelley@WhereSD.com Plan ahead for your next visit to San Diego— subscribe to where: Single copy $4, 4 issues $16. Contact: Lisa Kelley, phone: 619.260.5599, E-mail: Lisa.Kelley@WhereSD.com © 2015 Southern California Media Group. All Rights Reserved. Published by Southern California Media Group. where makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part strictly prohibited. where is a registered trademark of Morris Visitor Publications.
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On the Web: WhereSD.com 4 WHERESD.COM FALL 2015
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Welcome
A note from the editor
Visit Wyland Galleries Seaport Village gallery of California’s most beloved nature artist.
Only in San DieGO.
IS THIS THING ON?
I recently lost a dear friend and former colleague, Laurel, to cancer. We had worked together for years at another magazine. I was the editor of its San Diego edition; she was the editor of its Phoenix, and then San Francisco, editions. Laurel’s very least favorite part of her job was writing her monthly Letter from the Editor. In fact, she LOATHED it. “Nobody actually reads our letters, except for our copy editor and maybe our moms,” she would quip. “They’re pointless, boring. Every time I glance at an editor’s letter in just about any magazine, I roll my eyes. There’s always some contrived personal anecdote thrown in to set up what the Table of Contents should already be doing. So lame, Daoust, so lame.” (Laurel always called me by my last name, which I already miss so much.) I, on the other hand, LOVED writing my monthly Letter from the Editor. I’d spend hours on each one—gleefully, painstakingly choosing every single word in blind assumption that readers would be hanging onto my every thought. This plucky enthusiasm got me severely mocked and teased by Laurel and other co-workers—all in good fun, of course, and the teasing went both ways. At the end of the day, Laurel and I shared the
Wyland Galleries
I have that she graced my life … well, even I can’t adequately put it into
Seaport Village 855 W. Harbor Drive, #52 San Diego, CA 92101 619-544-9995
words. As I mark three years as editor of Where, 15 years as a proud San
OPEN DAILY 10 AM TO 10 PM
Diego resident and now 85 editor letters written over my career thus far,
www.wyland.com
same sense of humor, a true love of writing in general, a deep sense of loyalty to (and love for) our respective cities, and genuine friendship. These similarities far outweighed our differences, and the profound appreciation
I dedicate this one to Laurel. In her honor, rather than telling you all about TIM KING
Dolphin Playground, original oil painting by Wyland ©
this fabulous Fall Fashion & Beauty Issue, I now direct you to the Table of
Follow Wyland Get a tour of the gallery and receive a free Wyland print, limit one per family.
Contents on p. 2 instead. She would’ve loved that. —SARAH DAOUST FALL 2015 WHERE SAN DIEGO 5 WG_WHERE AD_SD.indd 1
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T H E
F O R U M
C A R L S B A D
ANTHROPOLOGIE APPLE J. CREW URBAN OUTFITTERS H&M MADEWELL LULULEMON ATHLETICA NICOLE MILLER FREE PEOPLE WHITE HOUSE | BLACK MARKET MAC COSMETICS SUR LA TABLE CHICO’S VICTORIA’S SECRET BLUEMERCURY OPENING FALL 2015 MULLOYS FINE JEWELRY OPENING FALL 2015 CASA DE BANDINI BUCA DI BEPPO URBAN PLATES
WHAT SHOPPING SHOULD BE Experience North County’s most beautiful place to shop. Ocean breezes, incredible landscaping, sparkling fountains and the perfect collection of stores, restaurants, salons and spa facilities, make The Forum Carlsbad a definite “must see” destination during a visit to San Diego. Voted the area’s favorite place to shop, The Forum Carlsbad is what shopping should be. And it’s yours to enjoy.
1923 Calle Barcelona, Carlsbad, CA 92009, www.theforumcarlsbad.com, 760.479.0166
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floral sc by Judy
WHERE CALENDAR FALL 2015 Search the full calendar at wheresd.com
HOT DATES
Top Stops
IT’S FALL FESTIVAL TIME IN SAN DIEGO. GET OUT THERE.
OCT. 10-11 ARTSY ATTRACTIONS Join an expected crowd of 30,000 at the La Jolla Art & Wine Festival, an art show and fundraiser benefitting underfunded elementary school programs. Roam among works by more than 150 artists, plus enjoy live entertainment, a silent auction, gourmet marketplace and beer and wine gardens. p. 55 OCT. 11 MANGIA BENE Celebrate Italian heritage at the Little Italy Festa, the largest festival of its kind on the West Coast, with an expected crowd of 120,000. Enjoy cooking demos, live entertainment, chalk art and a Kids Fun Zone. p. 55
TOP, LOOK BY DESIGNER SCOTT RICH / COURTESY FASHION WEEK SAN DIEGO
OCT. 1–4 CATWALK CALLING San Diego’s fourth annual tribute to rising stars in the fashion and beauty industries returns. Fashion Week San Diego, founded by Allison Andrews, will encompass four days of festivities in La Jolla celebrating the creations of 25 designers—including three runway shows, a trunk show where the public can shop among the designers’ collections before they hit the stores, and a fashion awards ceremony. p. 55
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GREAT THINGS NOT TO BE MISSED
1 S.D. RESTAURANT WEEK > SEPT. 20-27 More than 180 participating restaurants across San Diego County will offer three-course prix-fixe dinner menus, along with two-course lunch menus, at significantly reduced price points. p. 55
HERE FOR THE WEEKEND? Check out our Weekend Roundup at WhereSD.com for the up-to-the-minute lowdown on the coolest concerts, sporting events, festivals, art exhibits and restaurants.
4 HALLOWEEN > SEPT. 25-NOV. 1 Festivities this year include Del Mar’s Scream Zone, Balboa Park’s Haunted Trail, and downtown’s Haunted Hotel and adults-only Monster Bash. p. 55 5 DEL MAR RACES > OCT. 29-NOV. 29 The second leg of a dual season of “betting on the ponies” returns to Del Mar Racetrack, with more than a dozen thoroughbred races taking place throughout the month of November. p. 55
2 ADAMS AVENUE STREET FAIR > SEPT. 26-27 With more than 100 live music acts across eight stages, four beer gardens, Giant Carnival rides and 300 craft and food vendors, it’s one of California’s largest free music street fairs. p. 55
6 MOTHER GOOSE PARADE > NOV. 21 Kick off the holiday season at East County’s annual family celebration, complete with floats, marching bands, clowns and celebrity appearances. p. 58
3 S.D. FILM FESTIVAL > SEPT. 30-OCT. 4 Featuring 100 films (The Good Lie, starring Reese Witherspoon, is pictured at left), the festival will be held at Reading Cinemas and ArcLight Cinemas— with Academy Award contenders attending. p. 55
7 SAN DIEGO JAZZ FEST > NOV. 25-29 This 36th annual jazz celebration at Town & Country Resort in Mission Valley over Thanksgiving weekend will feature musicians such as the Memphis Boys and Red Skunk. p. 58
NOV. 6-15 WHAT’S BREWING? Paying homage to San Diego’s thriving craft beer scene, San Diego Beer Week returns for a 10-day countywide festival. p. 58 NOV. 15-22 WINE BY THE BAY SoCal’s largest wine and culinary event, the San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival at Embarcadero Marina Park North will showcase 200 wineries, breweries and spirit purveyors; 70 restaurants; and 10,000 wine and food aficionados from across the country. p. 58
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THE BEST IN ENTERTAINMENT, SHOPPING AND DINING
DINING
Asian Influence Making a spicy splash into the Gaslamp Quarter, restaurateur Alex Thao’s Sovereign Vietnamese Kitchen & Bar has already garnered a following of Pacific Rim cuisine diehards. Executive Chef Daniel Nguyen (original chef Michael "Bao" Huynh recently exited the endeavor) takes a refreshing, modern spin on authentic dishes. Within the lofty wood and brick interior, discover menu offerings such as beef carpaccio salad delicately plated with grapefruit, pineapple, chili and herbs that give it a lively zing; and mountain yame soup with puréed yams and plump, meaty shrimp. For entrées, choose from black cod steamed in banana leaves; sizzling beef short rib with fragrant lemongrass and sweet onion; or a whole red snapper prepared in three ways: sweet and sour, baked and fried. The bar shakes up gourmet cocktails such as the carrot-ginger mule and the cucumber and basil-infused Gin Collins. For a sweet treat, try the coconut yucca waffle topped with coconut, tender sweet corn and salted caramel ice cream. 467 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.359.8897
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Rustic Root's 1928 and 1930 cocktails
CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: COURTESY SOVEREIGN KITCHEN, COURTESY RMD GROUP, COURTESY RANCHO VALENCIA
GET NOSTALGIC What do fried chicken, deviled eggs and cream puffs have in common? In the case of Rustic Root, RMD Group’s new downtown endeavor, all three embody comfort food at its finest, thanks to Executive Chef Antonio Friscia. The eatery’s menu of nostalgic craft cocktails and rustic American cuisine embraces all the key culinary buzzwords—locally sourced, seasonal and house-made ingredients. Dinner dishes range from bourbon chicken liver pâté served with fig jam, to pork chops, lobster pappardelle and bison meatballs. Weekend brunch includes breakfast risotto—faro, red quinoa, kale and mushrooms, topped with poached eggs and Parmesan. The main level—warmed by wood and brick accents, splashes of lime and tangerine, and cozy booths—opens to a generous sidewalk dining patio. Or enjoy fresh air upstairs; Rustic Root is the only rooftop restaurant in the Gaslamp. 535 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.232.1747
Wine & Dine There is something magical about the lavish, tucked-away Rancho Valencia resort—from its 45 acres of manicured gardens and olive groves to its sparkling pools to its flagship fine-dining den, Veladora. The sumptuous space boasts chalet-style wood-beamed ceilings, wrought-iron lanterns, crackling fireplaces and
candlelight. Dine on handcrafted “coastal ranch” cuisine, from line-caught swordfish to a poached Maine lobster and citrus salad with local veggies. A new reason to visit is the restaurant's re-launched wine menu. Overseen by three sommeliers, the wine list has grown from 410 to 660 selections, with now more than
8,000 bottles in its cellar. A small half-bottle section has been added, with 23 new choices and 17 premium wines by the glass. We suggest reserving the brick-trimmed wine room for a dinner party; it’s lined with a plush purple rug that suggests royal treatment is in store. 5921 Valencia Circle, Rancho Santa Fe, 858.759.6216
Veladora's seasonal market salad
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diego But usually, when our regular customers have to go to a cocktail party or black tie or wedding, they don’t care about my inspiration. When she puts on a dress and feels so pretty and so comfortable, that is most important. What pieces are key for fall? We do a lot of capes. And the capelet dress … always very packable, easy to wear—twopiece, so you can wear with pants, you can wear a jacket, or you can wear a miniskirt. Who is your muse? Everyday women. Working women, or like soccer moms, very busy raising kids. The kind of person who loves life.
Q+A
A STYLE ICON UP CLOSE For more than 30 years, designer Tadashi Shoji’s namesake collection of special-occasion dresses has made women around the globe—Oscar winner Octavia Spencer, first lady Michelle Obama and countless wedding-party members among them— look and feel beautiful. Between trips to his offices in New York and L.A. and boutiques in Shanghai and Costa Mesa, Calif.—and his first flagship in Doha, Qatar—the Japanese-born American designer sat down with Where to discuss his inspirations and aspirations. Oh, and a few packing tips. —Suzanne Ennis When did you know you wanted to be a designer? I didn’t plan to be a fashion designer. I wanted to be an artist since I was a kid in Japan. But I realized that I can’t make it in this world in the art scene. I ran away from Japan to the United States as a tourist. I ended up in junior college, Trade Tech, in the fashion design department. I had never sewn in my life. In the first semester, they were teaching about draping, and I thought, “This is so interesting. This is sculpting—fabric is sculpting on the woman’s body!” That hooked me.
Your most memorable fashion moment? Thirty years ago, Bullocks Wilshire was the best department store [in Los Angeles]. For their Christmas show, in the six big windows facing Wilshire Boulevard, they put all my dresses [on display]. What is the inspiration behind your fall 2015 collection? The beauty of flying. But I didn’t want to do the regular uniform, the goggles. It’s about flying and feathers and birds and mechanical flying. That part [of the creative process] is fun for me.
Is there anyone you would like to dress but haven’t? When [my publicist] came to work for us last year … I told her, “You have to dress Michelle Obama.” And it happened! So maybe I can dress the Queen of England. Maybe Princess Kate. What’s next for you? We are coming out with the mini-Tadashi Shoji girls’ line for 2 years to 10 years old. Occasion dresses, like wedding flower girl and party dresses. Fashion advice for travelers? If it’s a 10-hour flight [over] the Pacific Ocean, don’t wear high heels. Wear flats. Flats are in. Any packing tips? I never check things. You have to edit ... same thing we do for a fashion show. It’s easiest if you do a theme of color. If you do black, then maybe accessorize with scarves or shoes in a different color. Color coordinate, and you can interchange all the occasions, all the items. What items would we always find in your suitcase? Driver slip-on shoes, drawstring
pants. T-shirts and a cardigan in the summertime; in the wintertime a down jacket. Everything you can smash, make tight and still it doesn’t wrinkle. What other essential item should be in every chic traveler’s suitcase? One time, I was coming back from New York to Los Angeles and this guy [was wrapped] in his own cashmere throw. Oh, that is so chichi, so cool, I think. If you could wake up tomorrow anywhere in the world, where would it be? Morocco. I did a Moorish [fashion] theme one time, so maybe I should go there. Where do you eat for a special occasion? My favorite Chinese restaurant here in the U.S. is Din Tai Fung. It’s at South Coast Plaza [in Costa Mesa, Calif.]. They started in Taiwan. When I’m in Shanghai or Beijing, I go. Very light dim sum, xiao long bao—it’s a bun, juicy inside. When you bite it, juice is coming out. Truffle xiao long bao is the best. That is so good! If you forgot your overnight bag, where would you shop? I like Ralph Lauren stuff. Like cashmere sweaters, and his cardigans in bright colors. Even in China, I try to look for the less expensive cashmere stuff, but his stuff is the best. So, T-shirts and polo shirts, bright color polo shirts, those kind of things I can buy at Ralph Lauren.
SHOP FOR TADASHI SHOJI IN S.D. Neiman Marcus, Fashion Valley Mall, 7027 Friars Road, Mission Valley, 619.692.9100; Nordstrom, Westfield UTC, 4321 La Jolla Village Drive, Golden Triangle, 858.457.4575; Bloomingdale’s, Fashion Valley Mall, 7057 Friars Road, Mission Valley, 619.610.6400
DALE BERMAN
WHERE NOW / san
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4545 La Jolla Village Drive, San Diego, CA 92122 • 858.546.8858 • westfieldtravelcollection.com
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WHERE NOW / san
diego
SPA+BEAUTY
HEAD TO TOE In San Diego, skin is in—even in autumn, when nights may be cool, but days are still warm and the beach is still beckoning. We rounded up some of the best new treatments, trends, salons and spas to help achieve a glow from head to toe. Start at the top: your hair. Fall is the perfect time to try a new look, and two new spots downtown provide some inspiration and help. For women, Blo Blow Dry Bar in the Gaslamp offers custom shampoo/blow-dry sessions and hairstyling—with
looks that range from polished ponytails to up-dos to bouncy curls—for just $40 (plus nails, eyebrow grooming and makeup.) For men, The Dover Honing Co. in East Village is an elevated barbershop experience offering haircuts, straight razor and hot towel shaves, razor lineups and classic beard trimming. You'll dig the new shop's retro-cool décor— featuring black-and-white tile floors, an original Tiffany’sdesigned, turn-of-the-century cash register, and a 1930s jukebox. And prices are reasonable; a basic haircut is $24.
To put your best face forward, The Sanctuary Day Spa in Ocean Beach recently introduced its new Celebrity Facial, which is ideal for post-summer skin that’s endured sun exposure and dehydration. It’s a 150-minute treatment that begins with a lotus wie flower ritual to invigorate the senses and relax the mind. The facial continues with a prickly pear nourishing facial wash that brightens lackluster skin, followed by an organic fruit enzyme brightening treatment. Next comes a non-invasive Synergy facial toning procedure and the spa’s signature “Notox”—a “myopulse” facial fitness treatment that leaves the face with a lifted but natural appearance. A lifting mask that encourages cell renewal follows, and the facial finishes with an organic, red wine hydration mask and an oxygeninfused Kypris treatment. (Kypris is a luxurious line of holistic, high-performance skincare.) The Celebrity Facial is $395 for one session, but owner Tracy Duhs recommends a series of six sessions ($1,900) for best results. You’ll want to clear your schedule for this pampering yet highperformance treatment. At the new SpaBlue at Del Mar, esthetician Kimber Winfrey says the secret to glowing skin is exfoliation, which helps to speed up your skin's cell turnover rate. To remove dull, dead skin, try the spa’s 75-minute Epicurabrasion facial treatment, priced at $175. It features two forms of exfoliation in a single super-charged facial: a glycolic hot cinnamon peel plus microdermabrasion. Your skin will feel refreshed after one treatment,
but a series is recommended to heighten and maintain results. When it comes to massages, the new—and very unique— Pino Honey Dream treatment at Ocean Pearl Day Spa is akin to sending yourself on a relaxing nature retreat without leaving Carlsbad. Honey-ginger massage oil and a honey-ginger massage candle are combined with immune-boosting massage honey and a Pino beeswax pad—an innovative honeycomb thermal pad used for massages. The body is revitalized with rhythmic massage techniques that relieve muscle tension, increase circulation and awaken the senses. Propolis in the beeswax pad boosts the immune system, while the honey relieves inflammation, softening the skin. The treatment is $225, and you’ll feel like the bee’s knees afterward. When it comes to full-body treatments, feel like a movie star at Marilyn Monroe Spas (formerly Kin Spa) downtown. The popular Marilyn’s Must-Have
is a 60-minute experience that focuses on repairing tissue and cell renewal. It includes a body exfoliation and mask, eucalyptus oil-infused steam and a face massage. The treatment decreases water weight, relieves congestion and cleanses your pores and lymphatic system. Skin is left exfoliated, hydrated and toned for $150. Another delectable treat for the body is the French green clay and seaweed detox wrap, offered at the new Driftwood Spa at The Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara. It’s 80 indulgent minutes of pampering, offered at $235. A gentle sugar exfoliation is applied first, followed by an application of soothing shea butter and noni (an exotic fruit-based cream known for its therapeutic powers). The peppermint-scented clay and seaweed body mask is applied next to help draw out impurities. Ingredients such as coconut, argan, grape stem cells and tea extracts improve texture and help to hydrate the skin.
RIGHT, COURTESY BLO BLOW DRY BAR
Where to go to get glowing, groomed, coiffed and pampered this fall
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BEAUTY GUIDE Blo Blow Dry Bar 435 Island Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.431.5400 The Dover Honing Co. 703 Eighth Ave., East Village, 619.795.9876 Driftwood Spa The Four Seasons Residence Club Aviara, 7210 Blue Heron Place, Carlsbad, 760.814.8668 Marilyn Monroe Spas Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego, 1 Market Place, Third Floor, Harbor Tower, downtown, 619.358.6699 Ocean Pearl Day Spa Sheraton Resort & Spa, 5480 Grand Pacific Drive, Carlsbad, 760.827.2700 The Sanctuary Day Spa 1955 Cable St., Ocean Beach, 619.861.8351 SpaBlue at Del Mar 2710 Via de la Valle, #270, Del Mar, 858.481.6672
Blo Blow Dry Bar (this page); water feature at Driftwood Spa (opposite).
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Mingle with history.
Let this seaside haunt spark the spirit of exploration. Discover secrets only you can find within the shops and restaurants of Seaport Village + Headquarters. Located downtown on the waterfront. 619 235 4014 • seaportvillage.com • theheadquarters.com
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FALL FASHION FORECAST
Top five tips from local boutiques to help you step out in style this season
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By SARAH DAOUST
8/4/15 11:50 AM
San Diego in the fall months is simply fabulous, filled with warm (and less crowded) beach days, and occasionally cool nights—which makes it fun to dress the part. The city’s collective dress code generally leans toward the casual, but a few key accessories can easily dress up or down a look depending on the occasion. We sought out select boutiques across the county for their favorites pieces of the season, along with style tips for both men and women. After all, fashion is their passion. TRY A SUBTLE ‘70S BOHEMIAN STYLE. The 1970s are back this season, but 1 don’t be scared. This time around, the look is more polished and elegant—mixed with hot colors for fall such as army green, teal and Bordeaux. At La Jolla’s Capricorn Boutique, which carries a carefully selected, eclectic collection of women’s clothing, jewelry and accessories, owners Lisa Ovadia and Krissy Patterson have been busy stocking their store with fresh new pieces. This season you’ll find dresses from Jetset Diaries, blouses from Gypsy ‘05, booties from Matisse, Frame flared denim and Maison Scotch wool hats. Capricorn is also a reflection of the owners’ style. Patterson prefers simple and comfortable, yet refined, pieces, and will be rocking cozy basics by Stateside this fall. “Less is more,” she says. Ovadia goes for laid-back and casual-chic, but “with a little bohemian mixed in with a
A casual fall look from Capricorn. Below: interior of Jolie Femme. Opposite: Capricorn Boutique owners Krissy Patterson and Lisa Ovadia.
little rock 'n' roll.” Find her in Frame denim flares this fall. 5628 La Jolla Blvd., Suite B, La Jolla, 858.551.2660
and ruby. Popular lines carried include Hanky Panky, Jonquil, Hanro and Le Chat. 7007 Friars Road, Mission Valley, 619.894.8835
GET INTIMATE. Ladies, part of feeling fabulous is the 2 clothing underneath your clothing. This fall, stock up on intimate apparel with punch: think bold red, royal purple or simple and sexy black bras and nighties. Jolie Femme in Del Mar is a European-style lingerie boutique and women’s clothing store carrying a complete line of undergarments, sleepwear and loungewear; plus on-site stylists and a certified bra-fit specialist to help you find your most flattering and comfortable looks. 2690 Via de la Valle, Suite D250-B, Del Mar, 858.792.1222 Another best bet for stylish intimate apparel is Intimacy at Fashion Valley Mall, known for its premium-quality lines of women's lingerie, pajamas, swimsuits and sleepwear. Favorites for fall include nightwear in black and jewel tones such as emerald, sapphire
DON’T TRY TOO HARD. It’s a very common fashion frustra3 tion: Achieving an effortless look often takes a lot of effort, especially when you also want to feel sophisticated yet comfortable. Cecelia Church, owner of Vocabulary Boutique in Little Italy, says that her business is about a love for people, fashion and selfexpression. “Our pieces are accessible, our collection is well-curated, and our stylists who work here find joy in facilitating style and building relationships with our customers.” Vocabulary stocks contemporary fashions for women and men who want to feel both chic and fuss-free, plus accessories and home accents. For women, Church’s favorite pieces for fall include leather leggings and mid-waisted flare pants in lightened denim. “For fall we’re also carrying leather goods by FALL 2015 WHERE SAN DIEGO 17
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and scarf as it cools.” 414 W. Cedar St., Little Italy, 619.203.4066
FashionABLE, which is a great organization working with women in sustainable businesses in Africa. Their totes and clutches are simply perfect.” As for her own style, Church says, “Right now I'm often wearing a white flowy blouse with a layering of handmade gold jewelry; Mimi & Lu and Thatch are local lines we carry that I covet. I'm a bit boho but still want to feel sophisticated. I'm obsessed with this maxi dress from Vocabulary that fits just right; I think it will stay with me into fall and winter, layered with a denim shirt or jacket
GO FOR A TAILORED, CUSTOMIZED LOOK. Perhaps the most refreshing thing 4 about fall fashion trends is that Melissa Hendrix, owner of Crow Thief in South Park, doesn’t follow them. Her store specializes in more timeless looks for men with handcrafted, custom-fit and custommade clothing and accessories. “We design and manufacture all of our garments right here in San Diego,” explains Hendrix. “Along with offering custom services, we also have a selection of readyto-wear [items] available. We believe every gentleman should have the opportunity to treasure exclusivity, which is why we only produce limited quantities per style for our ready-to-wear collection.” Hendrix says she’s a sucker for a welltailored cotton button-up shirt. “From clean and classic to bold patterns and textures, I like to mix and match, layer and/or add bold
MAKE A STATEMENT. Add some pop to simple basics this 5 season with accessories that say something. Lone Flag in Del Mar focuses on American-made, premium-quality clothing, accessories and beauty items for women and men that stand the test of time. Try the eye-catching Westward Leaning Voyager 16 sunglasses—featuring circular matte-sand tortoise frames with blackened California Redwood inlays for $185; or an electric blue, unisex utility bracelet for $28. 2690 Via de la Valle, Suite D140, Del Mar, 858.793.0712 To make an edgy fashion statement, don’t forget your feet. Blends in East Village is known for rare and exclusive urban footwear, including sneakers, trainers and high-tops. The Nike Roshe line of brightly colored, polka-dot-covered sneakers can stop traffic at $100 a pair; while the Vans Vault Collection black-and-white checkerboard high-tops at $70 help to create a smooth street style. 719 Eighth Ave., East Village, 619.233.6126
ALL PHOTOS (EXCEPT JOLIE FEMME AND LONE FLAG, WHICH ARE COURTESY PHOTOS) BY KAREN MORRISON
accessories. I enjoy being fun and creative with my personal style.” For fall, Hendrix has been working on a men’s lightweight, tailored utilitarian jacket, a limited run of which will have handpainted, silk-sewn patches; as well as a new long-sleeve knit shirt. “With these two new pieces, it’s all about simple, clean lines and incredible detailing.” 3009 Grape St., South Park, 619.961.6210
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Men’s attire at Crow Thief. Opposite, clockwise from left: Cecelia Church; effortless fashion pieces at Vocabulary; soaps at Lone Flag; Melissa Hendrix.
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Wake-Up Call Whether for breakfast or brunch, San Diego is home to new, secret and unexpected spots to start your day.
By SARAH DAOUST
B
REAKFAST (AND IN SOME CASES, BRUNCH) IS ARGUABLY THE most important meal of the day, and San Diegans take that very seriously. No matter your mood, the city is home to new restaurants and ones that offer new reasons to visit, that will both energize and ease you into your day. As for where to start, leave that to us. In North Park, the new Breakfast Republic is everything the first meal of the day is cracked up to be, literally. The living wall emblazoned with a rooster on the run sets the stage for the egg-centric eye candy to follow, from its airy urban farmhouse décor to the house-made crab cake benedict to the breakfast hot dog made with “smashed” potatoes, two eggs any style and topped with bacon. It’s an eatery with a sense of humor (a sign out front shows a photo of actor Christopher Walken and reads: “No reservations, Walkens only”); yet is serious about its ingredients. All eggs come from a family farm in Ramona and arrive in such dishes as the breakfast jambalaya, the breakfast bacon mac ‘n’ cheese, and the chicken-mango sausage Details scramble. Those with a sweet tooth will feel like kids in Bankers Hill Bar a candy store with dishes such as Oreo cookie pancakes & Restaurant and s’mores French toast. To drink, try some kombucha 2202 Fourth Ave., on tap, a salted caramel latte or one of 20 rotating Bankers Hill, beers. With such decadent and filling selections, break619.231.0222 fast here might just be your only meal of the day. Open daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bleu Boheme In the heart of downtown, Tender Greens—popular 4090 Adams Ave., with the corporate crowd seeking salads and healthy Kensington, plates for lunch—has been quietly churning out break619.255.4167 fast fare exclusive to this location since early 2015. CreBreakfast Republic ated specifically with downtown residents in mind, the 2730 University Ave., menu embraces Tender Greens’ mantra of slow food North Park, done fast; think artisanal sandwiches, organic granola 619.642.0299 with fruit, and breakfast pastries. Favorites include the house-made ham and aged white cheddar sandwich JRDN with a scrambled egg, aioli and apricot mustard; the 723 Felspar St., house-cured bacon quiche with Scarborough Farms Pacific Beach, spinach and goat cheese; and the cinnamon rolls. Open 858.270.5736 for breakfast on weekdays beginning at 7:30 a.m. Pan Bon The best part of waking up is a Pan Bon cappuccino 1450 Kettner Blvd., in your cup. Little Italy’s new all-day food hub of sorts Little Italy, encompasses a cafe, bakery and deli showcasing Italian 619.241.2443 confections, paninis and salads up front; along with Tender Greens a more formal dining area in back serving breakfast, 110 W. Broadway, lunch and dinner. While all three meals are authentidowntown, cally delizioso (its owners and recipes hail straight from 619.795.2353 Verona, Italy), morning is a particularly enjoyable time
to visit, when fresh-made pastries and fragrant coffee fill the air. Wake up with a strong cappuccino and meltin-your-mouth croissant, or fuel up with the classic Pan Bon Breakfast—a trio of eggs (scrambled, poached and sunny side up), served with sausage, bacon, a potato cake and toast. Breakfast is served Tuesday through Saturday from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Beachfront darling JRDN at Tower23 hotel recently appointed Danilo “DJ” Tangalin—former chef de cuisine at Prepkitchen—as its new executive chef, giving guests a new reason to visit the popular restaurant, especially for weekend brunch. You can’t go wrong with a buildyour-own mimosa (try the blackberry mint and cava combo) while taking in boardwalk and ocean views from the sunlit dining patio. The wild mushroom and potato skillet with poached eggs is divine. Or opt for the
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huevos rancheros: two eggs cooked to your preference, nestled atop smoked potatoes, black beans, lime cream, queso fresco and corn tortillas. For a sweet treat, indulge in a tower of baked French toast topped with bananas foster, candied pecans and whipped mascarpone. Breakfast is served Monday through Friday from 9 to 11 a.m.; with brunch Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Uptown outpost Bankers Hill Bar & Restaurant has long been known as the place for leisurely low-lit dinners of refined comfort food. Since it launched its Sunday brunch service in spring 2015, it’s also known as the spot that will be kind to you after a late Saturday night out. Early risers will have to wait until 10 a.m. to try popular dishes such as smoked beef brisket hash, chicken Wiener schnitzel and the Black Angus bistro tender steak with chive scrambled eggs. Those in need
of a little “hair of the dog” will find comfort in its creative breakfast cocktails; try the Banker’s Bloody Mary with a deviled egg, The Stalker with jalapeño-infused tequila, or the Milk Tyson Punch with bourbon and Blackstrap rum. Brunch is served every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For brunch off the beaten path, head to Bleu Boheme in Kensington—a rustic-chic French bistro where it’s perfectly acceptable to enjoy mussels and frites before ordering your morning coffee. In addition to a selection of omelets, eggs benedict and crêpes, Blue Boheme is known for its savory Belgian-style waffles that come loaded with proteins such as house-smoked bacon, ham and salmon. Or try the traditional Croque Madame with toasted ham and cheese on brioche toast, Mornay sauce and a fried egg. Brunch is served Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Wild mushroom and potato skillet with poached eggs at JRDN at Tower23 hotel
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EXPLORING
THE PAST AND PRESENT COME TOGETHER IN SAN DIEGO’S LIVELY, HISTORICAL DOWNTOWN NEIGHBORHOODS.
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Downtown San Diego is the city’s bustling, historical core, which has grown by leaps and bounds in the last 10 years. From its trendy shops, restaurants and nightlife, to its noted landmarks such as Petco Park in East Village and the USS Midway on the harborfront, no two downtown visits need be the same.
Gaslamp Quarter
Businessman Alonzo Erastus Horton envi sioned San Diego as a bustling port city, and in 1867 he spent $264 for 800 acres he called “New Town.” Today, New Town is known as the historical Gaslamp Quarter, or simply “the Gaslamp.” Com prising more than 16 square blocks, the Gaslamp stretches from Broadway to Har bor Drive (just north of the Convention Center), with Fourth, Fifth and Sixth ave nues as its main thoroughfares. Anchoring the area’s northwest end is Horton Plaza, a small square with a bubbling fountain on the corner of Broadway and Fourth. The Gaslamp’s immaculately preserved Victorian-style buildings are home to dozens of restaurants, clubs, theaters and retailers. Several tour guides offer an insider’s look at the Gaslamp (see p. 67), or create your own: The area can be easily covered on foot, or you can rent from Bike Revolution (522 Sixth Ave.) to navigate the district on two wheels. If you start your exploration at the south ern end of the Gaslamp, be sure to visit the Chuck Jones Gallery (232 Fifth Ave.) for cool animation art by emerging artists. Also check out the Art of Tim Cantor Gallery (527 Fourth Ave.) for a variety of one-of-akind conceptual art, oil paintings and writ ings. Shop for pre-owned luxury watches at
Nikki & Co. Fine Jewelers (562 Fifth Ave.). Stop in locally owned Dolcetti (635 Fifth Ave.) for contemporary men’s and women’s clothing and accessories. For national retail ers, venture farther up Fifth, where you’ll find well-known stores such as trendy hat boutique Goorin Brothers (631 Fifth Ave.), Quiksilver (402 Fifth Ave.), Urban Outfitters (665 Fifth Ave.) and Dutch brand G-Star Raw (470 Fifth Ave.), with styles for men and women. Or make your way over to Westfield Horton Plaza (see p. 64), a multilevel outdoor mall with a kaleidoscopic design that kicked off the revitalization of down town when it was constructed in 1985. It’s now home to some 100 restaurants and shops, including White House Black Market, Macy’s, BCBG and more. There’s also culture to be had at the mall: San Diego Repertory Theatre performs on the Lyceum Theatre stage; and historical Balboa Theatre anchors the shopping center’s eastern edge, at Fourth Avenue and E Street. And don’t mind the outdoor construction—a new urban plaza is slated to open this fall. After a long day of shopping and sight seeing, sate your hunger at one of the Gaslamp’s 100-plus restaurants, bars and cafés, ranging from American to Chinese to Indian to Thai to steak and seafood (please see dining guide, p. 53).
Parking can be dicey in the Gaslamp; a garage is your best bet. Park It On Market is a 500-space garage at Market Street with entrances on Sixth and Seventh avenues (619.232.1271); while 6th & K Parkade offers 1,230 spots, with entrances on Sixth and Seventh avenues (619.233.3994). For more information, call the Gaslamp Quarter Association (619.233.5227).
Downtown’s Core
Arts and culture abound downtown; favorite sites include the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego and The New Children’s Museum, an interactive art/play place with innovative exhibits for kids of all ages. The San Diego Chinese Historical Museum (404 Third Ave.) features a garden and koi pond. The San Diego Symphony performs at Copley Symphony Hall, while San Diego Opera and Broadway/San Diego present productions at the Civic Theatre (1100 Third Ave.), and the Spreckels Theatre (121 Broadway) hosts arts events throughout the year.
East Village
The completion of Petco Park (100 Park Blvd.) and the Central Library (330 Park Blvd.) helped gentrify this once-gritty neighborhood. Shop among feisty fashions at Bloom bou tique (660 Ninth Ave.); or nab a pair of new kicks at Blends (719 Eighth Ave.), which sells
(FROM LEFT) EDWIN SANTIAGO, BRAD ANDERSON/ARCHITECTURALPHOTOGRAPHYINC.COM, ASHOK SINHA; (OPPOSITE, BOTTOM) COURTESY ADELMAN FINE ART
Downtown
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rare urban footwear, trainers and high-tops. More shops, bars and dining can be found along J and Market streets. The area’s burgeoning art scene includes a few notable galleries: the edgy Periscope Project (corner of 15th and K streets) built from stacked shipping cargo containers; and Alexander Salazar Fine Art (1040 Seventh Ave.), featuring contemporary artists.
Little Italy
A few blocks north of downtown, Little Italy is home to fabulous restaurants, galleries, boutiques and markets dotting the main drag, India Street. Highlights include Bottlecraft (2252 India St.) and Ballast Point (2215 India St.) craft beer tasting rooms; a handful of gal leries, such as Meyer Fine Art (2400 Kettner Blvd., #104), featuring contemporary art by renowned artists; and cool shops, including Verde San Diego (1742 India St.), selling ecochic personal and home accessories. Take time to explore the streets branching off from India, too. The colorful cottages of the Fir Street Shops include Love & Aesthetics (621 W. Fir St.), stocked with rare artwork, home wares, bath products, jewelry and gift items; as well as Vitreum (619 W. Fir St.), specializing in simple, elegant ceramics. On Cedar, Vocabulary (414 W. Cedar St.) is a chic boutique featuring emerging designers. Run ning parallel to India Street, Kettner Boulevard forms the spine of the art-and-design district. A gallery cluster near the corner of Kettner and Kalmia includes Subtext Gallery (2479 Kettner Blvd.), focused on lowbrow and graphic artists. Shop for vintage and modern furniture, art and home accents at @HOM (2310-B Kettner Blvd.). And pop into Kapreeza (1772 Kettner Blvd.), a European lingerie and swim
Left to right: Wine bottles on the ceiling at Filippi’s Pizza Grotto in Little Italy; Waterfront Park; Fifth Avenue in the Gaslamp Quarter.
wear shop. Be on the lookout for NoLi Nights, a walkable quarterly event showcasing North Little Italy businesses; plus live bands and art performances. Foodies will enjoy roaming the popular Saturday morning Mercato farmers market on Cedar Street (619.233.3769).
Embarcadero
Shop and dine at The Headquarters at Seaport District, which houses the Aaron Chang Ocean Art Gallery (789 W. Harbor Drive, #156), and Seaport Village, home of Wyland Galleries (855 W. Harbor Drive). The bayside boardwalk is an easy walk from the Conven tion Center. Grab an iced cappuccino at
G R E AT F I N D
Upstart Crow Bookstore & Coffeehouse (835C W. Harbor Drive) and head for the Embarcadero Marina Park, which offers bike and jogging trails, basketball courts and picnicking. Continue north along the harbor to Broadway Pier and embark on sightseeing excursions or catch the Coronado Ferry (1050 N. Harbor Drive). Make time to tour the retired USS Midway (see p. 63) aircraft carrier and the floating Maritime Museum (see p. 62). After a day of exploring, get pampered at Blo Blow Dry Bar back in the Gaslamp (435 Island Ave.); services include hairstyling, nails and makeup. For a map of these neighborhoods, see p. 70. For restaurants in this area, see p. 53.
/ art scene
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Kettner Boulevard is no stranger to art galleries, but Adelman Fine Art truly stands out. Its collection comprises local and nationally renowned artists; plus emerging talents such as Iris Scott and Alan Blazar, with a focus on representational and figurative paintings, and a concentration of works by female artists. Run by sisters Nicole Adelman Brewer and Phylicia Adelman and their mother Marcia Adelman, the gallery also features two artisan fashion jewelry lines, Uno de 50 and Melinda Maria. Check their website for special events, live art demos and musical performances. 1980 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.354.5969, adelmanfineart.com
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EXPLORING
La Jolla
LA JOLLA IS A JEWEL SPARKLING WITH ART, THEATER, FINE DINING, BOUTIQUE SHOPPING AND THE AREA’S BEST OUTDOOR RECREATION.
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Translated literally as “the jewel,” La Jolla is a gem. The upscale village is known for its luxe specialty boutiques, art galleries and fine-dining venues that offer jaw-dropping views of the La Jolla coastline and the many stunning homes overlooking it. Nearby, hike at Torrey Pines and shop in the Golden Triangle. La Jolla’s stylish streets are lined with highend boutiques, antique stores and art galleries. Prospect Street and Girard Avenue form the spines of the village shopping district, but don’t be afraid to venture off onto side streets, where hidden gems await, including boutique stationery shop Sweet Paper (7660 Fay Ave.); Las Manos del Artesano (7940 Herschel Ave.), a gallery with Latin American folk art; and Tijon Fragrance Lab & Boutique (7853 Herschel Ave.), where you can customize your own perfume. On Girard, amid national brands like Banana Republic (7841 Girard Ave.), we love women’s apparel boutique Laura Gambucci (7655 Girard Ave.), a well-appointed spot run by Laura herself—offering designer clothing, accessories and shoes. Farther down Girard is Adelaide’s (7766 Girard Ave.), a fabulous floral shop that also sells candles, skincare and home accessories; as well as Barry Lawrence Ruderman Antique Maps (7463 Girard Ave.) and independent bookseller D.G. Wills (7461 Girard Ave.), stocking that rare first-edition. Back on Prospect Street, a slew of femalefriendly stores welcome shoppers, including locally designed swimwear shop Sauvage (1025 Prospect St.) and Robina (1261 Prospect St.), with chic women’s apparel and accessories. There’s also Westime (1227 Prospect St.),
offering high-end designer watches for both men and women. Also be sure to check out We Olive (1158 Prospect St.), a wine and olive bar featuring olive oil tastings, unique gift ideas and an ocean-view back patio. The village is also home to many wellrespected art galleries, whose collections range from landscape photography to Picasso canvases. A handful are clustered close together on Girard Avenue, making it easy to hop between them on nights when they all have coordinated opening receptions. Quint Gallery (7547 Girard Ave.) showcases edgy work by renowned artists like Ryan McGinness, while Madison Gallery (1020 Prospect St.) represents emerging and mid-career artists, as well as collections that include works by the likes of Jason Sims, Marc Petrovic, Retna and James Verbicky. Joseph Bellows Gallery (7661 Girard Ave.) mounts regular exhibitions of stunning black-and-white photography. La Jolla Boulevard heads south out of the village toward Bird Rock, where worthwhile boutiques for cutting-edge threads for women include Capricorn (5628 La Jolla Blvd.) and Mimi & Red (5630 La Jolla Blvd.). Break for gourmet coffee, tea and snacks at Bird Rock Coffee Roasters (5627 La Jolla Blvd.), or pick up a loaf of freshly made gluten-free bread at the charming Julian Bakery (5621 La Jolla Blvd.).
The neighborhood of La Jolla Shores, just a short drive up Torrey Pines Road, is also worth a visit. The wide, flat beach is perfect for swimming and sunning, while the main drag, Avenida de la Playa, is lined with eateries and rental shops with surf and kayak gear.
Arts & Science
The University of California, San Diego (9500 Gilman Drive) is home to one of the best theaters in the region: La Jolla Playhouse. The theater was founded in 1947 by actors Mel Ferrer, Dorothy McGuire and La Jolla native Gregory Peck. The Stuart Collection, a group of site-specific outdoor sculptures, adds to the artistic setting at UC San Diego. A 24-foot giant teddy bear made of boulders and a 560-foot-long “Snake Path” are among the artworks placed throughout the 1,200-acre campus. Just north of campus is the Salk Institute for Biological Studies (10010 N. Torrey Pines Road), an architectural masterpiece designed by Louis Kahn. The scientific research complex was named in honor of Dr. Jonas Salk, who discovered a vaccine for polio and later lived in La Jolla. Tours of campus architecture are available to the public (858.453.4100). Southwest of campus sits the famous Scripps Institution of Oceanography (8622 Kennel Way) and Birch Aquarium (see p. 67); both are top-rated ocean-life learning centers.
(FROM LEFT) ASHOK SINHA, COURTESY WE OLIVE, IAN WHITE
Shops, Galleries & Fun Stops
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In La Jolla Village, the ocean-view Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (see p. 62), housed in the former home of Ellen Browning Scripps, examines the boundaries of art created since 1950. The Athenaeum Music & Arts Library (1008 Wall St.) features art exhibitions, jazz and chamber music concerts, and a treasure trove of books and records.
Recreation
La Jolla is paradise for outdoorsy types. The Cove (1100 Coast Blvd.) hosts swimmers, snorkelers and kayakers—try La Jolla Kayak (2199 Avenida de la Playa) for rentals and tours. La Jolla Shores (8200 Camino del Oro) has easy access for scuba divers. Windansea (6800 Neptune Place), immortalized in Tom Wolfe’s The Pump House Gang, is a great surfing break. Children’s Pool, a small cove next to Ellen Browning Scripps Park, is a place to observe wildlife, particularly the harbor seals that have taken over the area. The seals’ encampment has caused an ongoing community debate: Some residents want to reclaim the cove for a children’s pool; others advocate for the seals. For a quick bite, oceanview restaurants line Prospect Street and Coast Boulevard.
Torrey Pines
Torrey Pines is just north of La Jolla Village. There, you’ll find the 2,000-acre Torrey Pines State Reserve, which offers eight miles of hiking trails winding through wind-sculpted pines and wildflowers. Located off Coast Highway 101 between La Jolla and Del Mar, the reserve was established to protect the nation’s rarest pine tree, the Pinus torreyan. One of the reserve’s trails leads directly to Torrey Pines State Beach, located on North Torrey Pines Road. The beach, which spans
Left to right: Windansea Beach; bites and vino at We Olive; the soaring interior of the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego.
4.5 miles from Del Mar to the cliffs at Torrey Pines Mesa, is a great place for swimming, boating and fishing. You can also catch these amazing ocean views from up high, via a hang glider or paraglider. The Torrey Pines Gliderport (2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Drive) offers flights (tandem, too) for novices and extreme adventure seekers. Adjacent Black’s Beach is a remote, 2-mile sandy strip known for great surfing—and nude sunbathing (“not officially sanctioned”). Nearby, Torrey Pines Golf Course gives golfers the ultimate indulgence: two courses with stunning ocean views. In 2008, the landmark became one of the only public courses to host
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a U.S. Open; it’s also the site of the PGA Tour’s annual Farmers Insurance Open.
Golden Triangle
The area east of La Jolla Village is known as the Golden Triangle (or University Town Center, which locals shorten to “UTC”), bordered by Interstate 5 on the west, Interstate 805 on the east and State Route 52 on the south. This triangular area includes upscale hotels, fine dining and a shopping district flanked by Westfield UTC (see p. 64), a beautiful outdoor mall with dozens of shops and restaurants. For a map of these neighborhoods, see p. 71. For a list of restaurants in this area, see p. 53.
/ global gastronomy
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Mediterranean, Latin American and Asian flavors influence the globally inspired, seafoodcentric menu at The Hake. Chefs Frederico Rigoletti and Roberto Craig craft honest dishes with high-quality ingredients, including traditional tiraditos (lightly dressed sashimi preparations). Imbibing offerings include more than 100 wines, seasonal cocktails and a huge mezcal collection. The 3,400-square-foot restaurant reflects a traditional bistro inside, punctuating the natural elements of the building with eclectic vintage pieces from local salvage and design stores, and offers two outdoor seating areas. 1250 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.1637
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EXPLORING
Beach Cities
FROM CORONADO TO PACIFIC BEACH, WELCOME TO SOCAL’S MOST SCENIC SEASIDE NEIGHBORHOODS.
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Coronado
Coronado is an island with small-town charm. Well, it’s not really an island, though many locals call it that. Coronado is actually an isthmus, attached to the mainland at the southern end of Silver Strand State Beach. Though driving there via the iconic Coro nado Bridge is always a thrill, it’s also great fun to travel by sea. The Coronado/San Diego Ferry leaves on the hour from downtown’s Broadway Pier between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. (619.234.4111), while San Diego Water Taxi offers on-call transportation around the bay from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (619.235.8294). Upon arrival, check out the shops at Coronado Ferry Landing (1201 First St.), then rent a cruiser at Holland’s Bicycles (977 Orange Ave.) to explore Coronado’s quaint side streets. Head south on the main drag of Orange Avenue to find an inviting retail district, with shops like Root 75 Flowers & Home (845 Orange Ave.); Coronado Taste of Oils (954 Orange Ave.) to sample gourmet olive oils and vinegars; and Blue Jeans and Bikinis (971 Orange Ave.) for clothing and swimwear. Pick up a new paperback at Bay Books (1029 Orange Ave.), and pop into The Attic (1011 Orange Ave.) for home accents and jewelry. Find more boutiques inside the storybook Hotel del Coronado (1500 Orange Ave.), opened in 1888 and a National Historic Landmark. For more on the town’s history, stop by
the Coronado Museum of History and Art (1100 Orange Ave.). Other Coronado gems include: Wag’n Tails (945 Orange Ave.) for pet pampering and supplies; The Front Porch (918 Orange Ave.) for gourmet pantry items; Clayton’s Coffee Shop (979 Orange Ave.) for a caffeine fix; and Art & Frames by Wood Gallery (936 Orange Ave.), as well as Emerald C Gallery (1331 Orange Ave.) for art inspiration. Catch a play at Lamb’s Players Theatre (1142 Orange Ave.), the area’s best ensemble outfit.
Shelter Island / Harbor Island
Shelter Island and Harbor Island aren’t really “islands” either; they’re connected to the mainland and were created nearly 40 years ago with tons of sand dredged from the bay. Shelter Island, with its many restaurants and nautically themed stores, is the departure point for various sportfishing charters. The area is also home to Humphreys Concerts by the Bay, a 1,400-seat outdoor venue. Nearby Harbor Island has its own, smaller outdoor festival site, Spanish Landing Park, and several bayview restaurants. Both islands offer postcard vistas of the downtown skyline, plus flat paths for walks and bike rides.
Ocean Beach and Point Loma
“O.B.” for short, this neighborhood is truly one of San Diego’s most unique. It’s an end-
less summer of love in O.B., an aggregation of aging hippies, surfers, bikers, artists, musicians and other free spirits. “OBceans” possess a strong sense of community and territorial pride best summed up by a oncepopular bumper sticker: “U.S. out of O.B.” The main drag, Newport Avenue, smells of incense and has many shops catering to the O.B. lifestyle, but also plenty of antiques dealers at places like Newport Avenue Antiques (4836 Newport Ave.). Music junkies will love the vintage vinyl at Cow Records (5040 Newport Ave.), while Galactic Comics (4981 Newport Ave.) is heaven for graphic-novel fans. The Corner Store (4873 Newport Ave.) is home to an array of shabby-chic furnishings, tea sets, vintage costume jewelry and other home and garden treasures. Just off Newport, Noon Design Shop (4993 Niagara Ave.) has handmade letterpress cards and jewelry. Wind down the day with a leisurely stroll along the Ocean Beach Pier, which, at 1,971 feet, is one of the longest concrete piers in the country. A casual café is situated about halfway down the pier. Nearby Point Loma is home to a small but charming array of restaurants and cafés, as well as the Cabrillo National Monument, Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery and military installations. The Cabrillo National Monument (see p. 61) offers panoramic vistas stretching from San Diego to Mexico. There
(FROM LEFT) EDWIN SANTIAGO, LIMELIFE PHOTOGRAPHY, ASHOK SINHA
San Diego’s beach cities epitomize quintessential SoCal; they’re diverse, laid-back and full of charm. Coronado is known for the historical Hotel Del and its pristine beaches; Ocean Beach is a fun, funky community of surfers and hippies; and Mission Bay offers outdoor recreation at its best. Take your pick.
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are also hiking trails, tidepools, a historical lighthouse, a bookstore and museum exhibits about conquistador Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, the founder of San Diego.
Mission Beach and Pacific Beach
Two of San Diego’s most popular beaches, Mission Beach and Pacific Beach form an unbroken band of sand that stretches for 3 miles, from the mouth of Mission Bay to the rocky points of La Jolla. Both are overflowing with restaurants, bars and boutiques. South Mission Beach is home to serious beach volleyball and bayside basketball games. Farther north, check out the star attraction at the Belmont Park (see p. 61) amusement park: the Giant Dipper, a famously restored 1925 wooden roller coaster. Another landmark dating back to 1925 is Crystal Pier, at the foot of Garnet Avenue in P.B. This 400-foot-long wooden pier is gated and lined with rental cottages. However, the pier is open to the public during the day and is always popular with fishermen. The best way to experience this area is to walk along the boardwalk, where peoplewatching is not just encouraged; it’s a must. If the nonstop parade of skateboarders, in-liners, bikers, joggers and walkers gets to be too much, walk across Mission Boulevard to the quieter bayside boardwalk. Garnet Avenue and Mission Boulevard form the backbone of this funky, retro retail district, which boasts dozens of small shops filled with surfing gear, swimsuits and casual wear. Begin the 10-block shopping stroll where the two main streets intersect, then head east. First order of business: Find that perfect bikini. SunSplash (979 Garnet Ave.) can help,
Left to right: Beach Village at The Del; boats at Mission Bay; Sunset Cliffs in Ocean Beach.
with stylish swimwear and casual beachwear. For the rest of the outfit, try The Fabulous Rag Boutique (829 Garnet Ave.), a quaint shop on the main drag selling women’s clothing in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Farther up Garnet Avenue is Rusty Spokes Vintage Bicycles (1344 Garnet Ave.), which specializes in antique and classic cycles. Heading south brings you to Mission Beach, home to popular bikini emporium Pilar’s Beachwear (3790 Mission Blvd.).
Mission Bay Park
Mission Bay Park is a 4,000-acre gathering spot for locals and visitors to enjoy outdoor
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activities including running, biking, skating, kite-flying, sailing and boating. Several sportfishing charters depart daily from Mission Bay, and a variety of watercraft can be rented from nearby shops. If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at standup paddle boarding. The west side of the bay is also home to several resort hotels and world-renowned SeaWorld (see p. 62). Don’t miss the thrilling Shark Encounter and the Turtle Reef exhibition and ride. For a map of these neighborhoods, see p. 69. For information about restaurants in this area, please see p. 53.
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Located in the historical Spreckels Building on Coronado’s main quaint thoroughfare, Lamb’s Players Theatre renovated the once-abandoned space in 1994. Since then, the 350seat, Euro-style theater has established a full-time, long-term company of actors, directors, playwrights and designers—producing more than 45 world premieres and 40 regional premieres. In addition to the group’s resident work, an educational outreach troupe, The Road Crew, performs to thousands of students each year. The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, a new adaptation of the literary classic, runs Oct. 9-Nov. 15. 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.6000
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EXPLORING
Uptown
HILLCREST, MISSION HILLS, NORTH PARK, SOUTH PARK: ECLECTIC NEIGHBORHOODS FULL OF CULTURE, CHARACTER AND CHARM.
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Uptown encompasses some of S.D.’s most diverse, artsy and dynamic neighborhoods—including Hillcrest, one of the county’s most progressive areas, as well as North Park, South Park, University Heights and Mission Hills, all of which are filled with Craftsman-style homes, trendy eateries and hipster boutiques. The hub of Hillcrest, at the intersection of University and Fifth avenues, is always a buzzing, heavily trafficked scene throughout the day, with joggers, dog-walkers and coffeesippers crowding the sidewalks. It’s also San Diego’s official LGBT community and hosts the Pride Festival and Parade every July. Fabulous shopping begins at University and First avenues and runs 12 blocks to Park Boulevard. Find stylish travel accessories at Index Urban (3833 Fourth Ave); retro urban footwear at Mint (525 University Ave.); hip men’s fashions and home accents at House Boi (1435 University Ave.); and kitschy novelty gifts at Babette Schwartz (421 University Ave.). Just off the main drag, you’ll find all manner of headgear at the Village Hat Shop (3821 Fourth Ave.). Leave time to peruse 5th Avenue Books (3838 Fifth Ave.) and Bluestocking Books (3817 Fifth Ave.), whose rustic shelves are lined with out-of-print and rare tomes. By night, the area lights up with restaurants, bars and dance clubs, and a great art-house movie theater, the Landmark (3965 Fifth Ave.).
University Heights and Mission Hills
Northeast of Hillcrest on Park Boulevard lies adorably funky University Heights, home to ethnic eateries and fun shopping at places like Frock You (4121 Park Blvd.), a clothing store
whose helpful staff specializes in vintage fashion. University Heights also has an astonishing number of cafés for such a small neighborhood. We love the bohemian vibe and free WiFi at Twiggs Coffehouse (4590 Park Blvd.) for a cappuccino break. The streets of Mission Hills, northwest of Hillcrest, are lined with stately homes, quaint cafés and boutiques. Isabela (1111 Fort Stockton Drive) is an elegant skincare boutique; The Front Porch offers gourmet pantry items, home décor, and pet and garden products (928 Fort Stockton Drive); and Maison en Provence (820 Fort Stockton Drive) is stocked with French-country home accessories. Presidio Park, at the western edge of this neighborhood, is historically significant as the site of the first European settlement in California (619.692.4918). Scenic trails lead to the neighboring Junípero Serra Museum. The museum, built in 1929, is a replica of the mission erected there in 1769.
North Park
Centered at University Avenue and 30th Street, North Park is a bountiful arts district, thanks in part to the restoration of the historical theater, Observatory North Park, formerly the North Park Theatre (2891 University Ave.). Gallery hops and art festivals are held often; for event details, North Park Main Street is a great resource (northparkmainstreet.com).
The area is also home to dozens of independent clothing and décor boutiques. We love the organic cotton baby clothes and stylish art books sold at Pigment (3801 30th St.), while Mimi & Red (3041 University Ave.) has trendy women’s clothing and accessories. After dark, North Park comes alive with dozens of bars, hipster clubs, edgy restaurants and lively coffeehouses.
South Park
About a mile south of University on 30th Street lies the quiet neighborhood known as South Park. Though largely residential, South Park has several great eateries and bars, and is an ideal place to shop for gifts while supporting local independent merchants. Favorite retailers in this area include The Grove bookstore (3010 Juniper St.), which also has a crafting nook inside; modern home furnishings and design emporium, Progress (2225 30th St.); Make Good (2207 Fern St.), with locally made clothing, home accents and jewelry; and Grant’s Marketplace (2953 Beech St.) for gourmet groceries and deli items. Spruce up your canine kids at South Bark Dog Wash (2037 30th St.), a staple of the community, known for its “Blueberry Facial” and fun inventory of doggie treats and toys. For a map of these neighborhoods, please see p. 71. For a list of restaurants in this area, please see p. 53.
(FAR LEFT) NATHAN PADILLA BOWEN; (MIDDLE AND TOP RIGHT) YES, DEAR. STUDIO
Hillcrest
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Left to right: The famed Hillcrest sign on University Avenue; vintage gifts at Bad Madge Boutique; Beech Street in South Park.
/ habit-forming
GREAT FIND
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A staple in the vibrant Hillcrest dining scene, Local Habit recently reinvented itself with a new “Cali-Creole” concept that fuses traditional Creole flavors with ingredients sourced from local farms. The restaurant features an entirely new menu, including a Sunday brunch by consulting chef and Louisiana native Nick Brune, and such signature dishes as Jidori fried chicken, Creole pizza and New Orleans-style Po’ Boys. Sip on a jazz, blues or funk-inspired libation from the craft cocktail menu, or order an absinthe poured from the restaurant’s ever-flowing fountain. Save room for dessert; beignets are on the menu. 3827 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.795.4770
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EXPLORING
North Coast
DEL MAR, SOLANA BEACH, ENCINITAS, CARLSBAD: THESE CITIES EXEMPLIFY THE GOOD LIFE IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA.
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San Diego’s North County coastal communities have a certain charm that must be experienced firsthand to fully appreciate. Yes, the pace is a bit slower than other areas, but locals prefer it that way. The North Coast’s many quaint pockets offer the best in boutique shopping, gallery hopping and beaches. Del Mar’s celebrity status began more than 70 years ago, when the oceanside paradise became the home of the Del Mar Racetrack (2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd.). Celebs Bing Crosby and Pat O’Brien helped establish the track—and its track record for hosting the Hollywood elite at the Thoroughbred Club. Ava Gardner, W.C. Fields, Lucille Ball, Desi Arnaz, Jimmy Durante and Mickey Rooney were among the regulars in the late 1930s, ‘40s and ‘50s. Today, racing season runs from midJuly to early September (then returns for the month of November), but fun events are held at the Del Mar Fairgrounds year-round. Jimmy Durante Boulevard—named for the famous entertainer who lived in Del Mar— paves the way from the track to the heart of the village. The intersection of Camino Del Mar and 15th Street forms Del Mar’s center. The Del Mar Plaza (see p. 63) has scenic fountains and sweeping ocean views, plus upscale shops like clothing boutiques Garys Studio and Peaches en Regalia; Loghman Jewelers, with Italian jewelry and watches; and chains like Banana Republic and Sunglass Hut. There’s more retail along Del Mar’s main street, Camino Del Mar, and the area can easily be covered on foot. The shopping district is lined with shops, including Carolyn’s (1310 Camino Del Mar), with designer resale items, plus several casual cafés and eateries.
Great shopping continues east of the fair grounds on Via de la Valle at Flower Hill Promenade (2720 Via de la Valle), where shops include trendy women’s boutique Van De Vort, men’s clothier Patrick James and Venissimo Cheese & Wine Bar. At the end of the day, head to Seagrove Park (Coast Boulevard at 15th Street) to enjoy a brilliant sunset overlooking the Pacific.
Solana Beach
Solana Beach is home to some of the chicest stores in San Diego County. The Cedros Design District begins at South Cedros Avenue and Lomas Santa Fe Drive, easily accessible by the Coaster, the train that runs from downtown San Diego to Oceanside. More than 50 shops spanning a quartermile feature fashion, home furnishings and antiques. Most of the boutiques on South Cedros are housed in renovated Quonset huts (iron warehouses shaped like a half-cylinder), giving the ‘hood an artistic feel. Fuel up for your walking tour of the neighborhood at Claire’s (246 N. Cedros Ave.), across from the train station. It’s an eco-conscious café with preferred parking for electric and hybrid cars. This stretch of Cedros is also home to Susan Street Fine Art, a contemporary art gallery (200 N. Cedros Ave.), and Tobi Blatt (152 N. Cedros Ave.), with women’s clothing from coveted labels.
Cross Lomas Santa Fe to explore South Cedros. We love Cedros Soles (143 S. Cedros Ave.) for the latest footwear; HIS (also at 143 S. Cedros Ave.), a store geared toward the style-minded guy; Bixby & Ball (214 S. Cedros Ave.), with linens, home décor items and other coastal-lifestyle accessories; and Aaron Chang Ocean Art Gallery (415 S. Cedros Ave., #110). Linger long enough to smell the sweet aromas springing from Mistral (146 S. Cedros Ave.), a small bungalow with soaps and lotions imported from France. You’ll also find hip home décor and art books at Solo (309 S. Cedros Ave.), and everything for the modern garden at color-splashed Chicweed (240 S. Cedros Ave.). Nestled among the retail shops is one of the county’s top live music venues: the Belly Up (see p. 66), a Solana Beach landmark for 40 years and counting.
Encinitas and Cardiff-by-the-Sea
Heading north on 101 from Solana Beach, you’ll pass through the surf community of Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Be sure to take a picture with the infamous “Cardiff Kook” sculpture. As you continue north approaching downtown Encinitas, you’ll see a unique silhouette among the palm trees. The Self-Realization Fellowship Retreat and Ashram Center (215 K St.), with its lotus blossom–shaped towers, dates back to 1937. A portion of the grounds
EDWIN SANTIAGO
Del Mar
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is open and free to the public. A stroll through the lush, cliffside gardens offers views of surfers at nearby Swami’s Beach (1298 S. Coast Hwy. 101), a popular break for longboarders. Stock up on gear and surfboards at Hansen’s Surf Shop (1105 S. Coast Hwy. 101). Up the road, The Lumberyard’s two dozen shops include clothier Reign & Clover, modern home-and-garden store Grounded and Chuao Chocolatier, with gourmet sweets made from the finest Venezuelan chocolate. Don’t miss DeepFling, with silver jewelry from Scandinavian designers. The Lumberyard also has an array of wine bars, eateries and cafés, many with outdoor seating (937 S. Coast Hwy. 101). In the center of downtown, the historical La Paloma Theatre (471 S. Coast Hwy. 101) has anchored the district since the 1920s and still hosts concerts and independent films. Boutiques and restaurants also line the strip. Boasting a sprawling Whole Foods, Pacific Station is also home to Icons boutique, with denim, tees, boho-chic blouses and more (687 S. Coast Hwy. 101). North Coast Highway 101 runs through sleepy Leucadia, where it’s easy to speed right by gems like Lou’s Records (434 N. Coast Hwy. 101), with its selection of hip LPs and CDs, and Ducky Waddles Emporium (414 N. Coast Hwy. 101), with its excellent collection of books on all things artsy or bawdy. A great cluster of shops is found at The Gold Coast (466 N. Coast Hwy. 101), whose tenants include stylish children’s boutique Daisy B. A short drive inland leads to San Diego Botanic Garden, a 35-acre treasure showcasing 3,000 rare and exotic plants.
Carlsbad
Downtown Carlsbad is a picturesque seaside
Left to right: Downtown Encinitas; Carlsbad Flower Fields; Solana Beach.
village. Along Carlsbad Village Drive, you’ll find famed local landmark Frazier’s Well (2802 Carlsbad Blvd.), where sea captain John Frazier discovered mineral water back in 1882. Nearby is Carlsbad Village Faire, a shopping center that is home to several casual eateries and shops. Retail on nearby State Street includes antique stores and shops like Coolest Shoes in California (2984 State St.), Mulloys Fine Jewelry (2978 State St.) and Seaworthy Surf Shop (2988 State St.). A short drive east of the freeway on Palomar Airport Road leads to great outlet shopping at Carlsbad Premium Outlets (see p. 63), with brand-name stores like BCBG, Kenneth
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Cole and Michael Kors. Continuing on Palomar Airport Road from the outlets will lead you to another cluster of attractions. Legoland (see p. 61) is 128 acres of kid-friendly entertainment that includes the Sea Life Aquarium. Nearby, the Museum of Making Music (see p. 62) is filled with musical memorabilia. Omni La Costa Resort and Spa (2100 Costa del Mar Road) is home to the Chopra Center for well-being. Two miles south of La Costa is The Forum Carlsbad (see p. 64), an outdoor, Spanish-style mall. For a map of these neighborhoods, see p. 71. For information about restaurants in this area, please see p. 53.
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The screen is large and the popcorn is always hot and fresh at La Paloma Theatre, a storied 1920s movie theater that now hosts foreign and independent films, festivals, concerts, and weekly Friday night showings of Rocky Horror Picture Show. La Paloma was one of the first theaters to show “talkies” in the 1920s, and elegantly transitioned into the sound era with the addition of a beautiful pipe organ. Since then, it’s hosted multiple film festivals and musicians, including Loreena McKennitt, Nickel Creek, Jerry Garcia and Eddie Vedder. Don’t forget to stop at the ATM first; La Paloma is cash only. 471 S. Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, 760.436.7469
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EXPLORING
Balboa Park
ART, MUSIC AND PERFORMANCE BLOOM YEAR-ROUND.
➺Spanning 1,200 acres of lush, beautifully landscaped terrain, Balboa Park is known as San Diego’s “crown jewel,” offering a variety of both cultural and outdoor recreation options for kids and adults alike, not to mention a verdant respite from the bustle of the city’s increasingly metropolitan pace.
Arts & Culture
Performing arts abound in the park. The Old Globe theater presents superior theatrical talent in world-renowned productions. Upcoming features include the world-premiere dance-theater musical, In Your Arms, (Sept. 16-Oct. 25); and the witty one-woman tour de force, Full Gallop (Sept. 26-Oct. 25). See pp. 58-60 for detailed theater listings. Elsewhere in the park, the Marie Hitchcock Puppet Theatre presents whimsical puppet shows, while Spreckels Organ Pavilion houses one of the world’s largest outdoor
pipe organs, with some 4,500 pipes. Free concerts are offered Sundays at 2 p.m. The park is also home to groups celebrating culture. The House of Pacific Relations International Cottages promotes the heritage of countries around the world by hosting open houses and weekend festivals. Neighboring WorldBeat Center uses art, music, dance and education to celebrate African and indigenous cultures, while Centro Cultural de la Raza is a multidisciplinary center dedicated to the preservation of Chicano/Latino culture. The park has a vast array of institutions celebrating the visual arts, past and present. Known for its presentation of eclectic traveling exhibits, the San Diego Museum of Art also has a trove of Renaissance and Baroque works, plus a large Asian collection. The world-class Museum of Photographic Arts (MOPA) showcases compelling photography and presents films in its state-of-the-art theater. Don’t miss Self Reflection: 10th Annual Juried Youth Exhibition, featuring photographic artwork from students in grades K-12 from San Diego County and Tijuana (Oct. 3-Jan. 24). The Mingei International Museum is dedicated to folk art, craft and design from around the world, while the Timken Museum of Art is home to the Putnam Foundation’s renowned collection of European and Byzantine art, including exquisite Russian religious paintings.
The San Diego Art Institute’s Museum of the Living Artist presents exhibitions by contemporary local artists every four to six weeks, and the historical Spanish Village Art Center is a collection of 37 studios representing more than 200 artists working in media ranging from sculpture to blown glass; the charming courtyard setting is meant to evoke an Old World town square.
Science & History
Balboa Park’s many non-visual art museums are a huge draw for children, but most distinguish themselves by crafting exhibitions that also appeal to adult sensibilities. The San Diego Air and Space Museum salutes aviation with 68 original, reproduction and model airplanes and spacecraft. The Reuben H. Fleet Science Center has interactive science exhibitions and an IMAX Giant Dome theater. The country’s largest multi-sports museum, the San Diego Hall of Champions has interactive displays inviting sports fans to test their athletic and broadcasting skills. From antiques to hot rods, the San Diego Automotive Museum’s collection illustrates the evolution of the automobile. The vast San Diego Natural History Museum’s life-sized T-Rex skeleton, fossil exhibits and 3-D theater let visitors explore the natural world via exciting interactive and educational media.
(FROM LEFT) LIMELIFE PHOTOGRAPHY, COURTESY SAN DIEGO ZOO, JOHN DOLE
Nestled between palm trees and botanical gardens, ornate Spanish Colonial buildings house many of the park’s museums and art exhibits. Several of the buildings were constructed as part of two world fairs: the Panama-California Exposition in 1915–16, and the California-Pacific International Exposition in 1935–36. It can take more than one day to see and enjoy each museum, garden and attraction. The Visitors Center (619.239.0512) in the House of Hospitality offers the Explorer Pass, allowing admission to any of the park’s museums for one week. (Keep in mind some museums are closed on Mondays.) Deluxe packages include passes to the neighboring San Diego Zoo. Or go high-tech and let the park’s mobile app be your guide.
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Left to right: Alcazar Garden; giraffe at San Diego Zoo; strolling by Casa del Prado.
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/ make your mark
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Balboa Park’s signature centennial event for fall, Maker Faire, is part high-tech science fair, part county fair and part something entirely innovative. This all-ages gathering of inquiring minds is designed to celebrate the do-it-yourself community and those who are learning about, exploring, and creating with new technologies. Take in exhibits and presentations from worldrenowned “makers” and whet your appetite for learning and development as Maker Faire adds an unprecedented fusion of technology, science, whimsy and innovation to San Diego’s cultural hub. Tickets include general admission to 10 Balboa Park museums. Oct. 3-4, sdmakerfaire.org
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Dedicated to the study of anthropology, the San Diego Museum of Man explores cultures of the world, especially the Americas. The largest of its kind, the Model Railroad Museum boasts scale models and interactive features for children. The San Diego History Center is for visitors of all ages, featuring interactive and engaging exhibits showcasing San Diego’s storied past. At the Veterans Museum & Memorial Center, visitors will find military uniforms from World War I, the Vietnam War and the Korean War, as well as maritime paintings by local artists and other displays. The Marston House (see p. 62), a Craftsman Prairie-style mansion designed in 1905 by noted architect Irving Gill, is a must for history and architecture buffs; the grounds also feature a carriage house and gardens.
Attractions & Gardens
in Balboa Park
sandiegoairandspace.org 619.234.8291
The park’s major attraction is, of course, the San Diego Zoo (see p. 62), with some 4,000 rare and endangered species. Among the animal residents you’ll find the much-beloved meerkats, Asian and African elephants, monkeys, birds and more. Be sure to stop by Panda Canyon to say hello to the newest giant panda cub, born in 2012. After visiting the zoo, try your hand at the brass ring game from your perch atop a handcarved pony on the Balboa Park Carousel. Both kids and grown-ups are welcome on the Balboa Park Miniature Railroad, which takes a three-minute, half-mile trip through 4 acres of the park. The park also features several gardens, a legacy left by its founding “mother,” botanist Kate Sessions. Complete with ornate fountains and colorful tiling, the Spanish-style Alcazar Garden, which abuts the Art Institute and Mingei Museum, blooms with 7,000 brilliantly colored annuals. The Japanese Friendship Garden features a Zen meditation garden and bonsai exhibit, while the sunken Zoro Garden has an interesting history: It was designed as a nudist colony during the 1935 California-Pacific International Exposition, but is now a habitat for monarch, sulfur and swallowtail butterflies. Also built for the Expo, the Old Cactus Garden has succulents and other exotic plants. With some 2,100 orchids, ferns, poinsettias and other plants, the Botanical Building is among the world’s largest lath structures; along with its gorgeous Lily Pond, it’s one of the park’s most photographed, scenic and romantic sites.
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Recreation
From hiking and jogging to tennis and bocce ball, you’ll find it in the park. The Balboa Park Activity Center has facilities for badminton, table tennis, volleyball and more, while the Balboa Park Municipal Golf Course offers striking views of downtown and Coronado. At Texas and Upas streets, on the park’s northeast end, the Morley Field Sports Complex is a haven for disc golf fans and other sports nuts, boasting a velodrome, archery range and bocce court. Check in here for information on the many hike and bike trails through Florida Canyon, a popular workout spot for joggers. The nearby Balboa Tennis Club is open to the public, with 25 courts and a full-service pro shop, plus lessons and clinics. The dapper, white-clad members of the San Diego Lawn Bowling Club, which has been around for more than 75 years, play seven days a week near the corner of Sixth Avenue and Laurel Street. Visitors are welcome to join the fun and get a free lesson. There are also a few leash-free dog parks here, including one at Balboa Drive and El Prado, south of the Cabrillo Bridge, and another at Morley Field, northwest of the tennis courts. The park is among the most dog-friendly public recreational properties of its kind in the world. Expect to see dozens both on and off leash at every turn.
“Fun and engaging. Brings the many advancements of the ancient Maya to life for visitors of all ages.”—Dr. Dominique Rissolo, local Maya expert
fun for the whole family
Dining
Several casual snack bars and coffee carts can be found throughout the park and inside certain museums. For a sit-down experience, try The Prado, whose lively, colorful interior and charming garden patio—not to mention hearty American cuisine, refreshing salads and exotic South American cocktails—have made it a longtime local favorite. Another popular outpost, The Tea Pavilion at the Japanese Friendship Garden serves tea, noodles and sushi in a casual setting. Other park dining favorites include Casa 1915 Mexican Grill located in the Casa de Balboa building; Dinosaur Café in the atrium of the San Diego Natural History Museum; Flight Path Grill, an outdoor restaurant at the San Diego Air & Space Museum serving hot dogs, hamburgers, pizza and salad; and the new Panama 66, serving craft beer, cocktails and local fare at The San Diego Museum of Art. A map of Balboa Park is on page 70. Museums and attractions are listed in the where guide.
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where
the guide FALL 2015
DINING
Farm Fresh
TIM OTTO / COURTESY KITCHEN 4140
Chef/owner Kurt Metzger has something special going at Kitchen 4140—a favorite of other local chefs and Bay Ho residents, tucked away off of Morena Boulevard. It’s a true farm-to-table restaurant, complete with its own garden (featuring six hydroponic towers that grow organic produce while conserving water), a recently expanded patio with occasional live music, and a rustic-mod interior with an open-style kitchen and a large private dining room. Metzger favors simple, ingredient-driven cuisine, evident in his menu of seasonal American fare. Recent dishes have included smoked salmon risotto with heirloom vegetables, and handmade braised short rib gnocchi with kitchen veggies. Save room for mixed berry cobbler for dessert. 4140 Morena Blvd., Clairemont, 858.483.4140
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Dining SPOTLIGHT
American BANKERS HILL BAR & RESTAURANT Mismatched antique chairs decorate this casual spot with an urbanindustrial vibe. A seasonal menu includes pork tacos and an excellent burger. D (nightly), Br (Su). 2202 Fourth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.231.0222. $$$ Map O16 BARLEYMASH This spacious brick-walled sports bar serves burgers, spicy beer-boiled prawns and hearty “Barley pie”; find martinis galore at Ginger’s cocktail lounge downstairs. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 600 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.255.7373. $$ Map Q16 BERTRAND AT MISTER A’S Incredible 12th-floor views and romantic ambiance complemented by fresh, seasonal ingredients. Appetizers range from mac ‘n’ cheese to panseared scallops, plus an outstanding wine list. The new brunch menu features creative Bloody Marys. L (M–F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 2550 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.239.1377. $$$$ Map O16
Take to the Sea The former space housing the Palm steakhouse is now home to Water Grill, a trendy seafood eatery outfitted with nautical décor, leather banquettes and massive, garage door-style windows. The 11,000-square-foot multilevel space houses two bars, wood-beamed ceilings and a private dining room. The seasonal menu showcases sea fare flown in from all over the world. Think pan-seared wild Alaskan halibut with succotash, Ecuadorian white shrimp and grits, a Connecticut-style lobster roll, daily crudo selections from the raw bar, and whole fish preparations such as Dover sole and farmed European sea bass. To drink, choose from a wide selection of local craft beers, wines and cocktails. 615 J St., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.717.6992
Guidelines
Restaurants are listed by city on page 53. Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps on pages 68-71. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.
Index American................................38 Breakfast.................................39 California Cuisine...............40 Chinese................................... 42 Desserts................................. 42 Eclectic/Fusion.................... 43 French..................................... 43 International.........................44
Italian....................................... 45 Japanese................................46 Mexican/Southwestern...47 Seafood............................... 48 Steak.......................................51 Thai.........................................51 Wine Bars............................52
BROCKTON VILLA An 1894 cottage with a spectacular ocean view. Try the Coast Toast, a French toast soufflé from the breakfast menu. B, L, D (daily). 1235 Coast Blvd., La Jolla, 858.454.7393. $$ Map W19
HORNBLOWER Celebrate a special occasion or surprise your sweetheart with a three-hour dinner cruise aboard a luxury yacht along San Diego’s stunning waterfront. Enjoy a three-course meal, chilled Champagne and dancing. D (nightly). 970 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.686.8715. $$ Map Q14
BROOKLYN GIRL EATERY This trendy neighborhood joint is known for its complimentary daily popcorn and urban Brooklyn pantry vibe. Try the gnocchi and short rib entrée. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 4033 Goldfinch St., Mission Hills, 619.296.4600. $$$ Map M15
JIMMY’S FAMOUS AMERICAN TAVERN Spicy California cheeseburgers and specialty cocktails served in a fun, casual bayside venue; outdoor patio offers great marina views. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 4990 N. Harbor Drive, Point Loma, 619.226.2103. $$ Map K9
CHART HOUSE Seafood and steakhouse has picturesque coastline location with floor-to-ceiling windows. Indulge in hot chocolate lava cake for dessert. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 2588 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, 760.436.4044. $$$ Map W22
KETTNER EXCHANGE Little Italy’s current hotspot offers progressive American dishes such as big-eye tuna pizza and gluten-free gnocchi. Downstairs is a sumptuous space with cozy seating and a two-way fireplace; upstairs is a sprawling rooftop lounge with bay views and socialites sipping craft cocktails. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 2001 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.255.2001. $$$ Map P15
CRAFT & COMMERCE Gastropub-inspired food such as roasted bone marrow, fried pickles and bacon Cracker Jacks, plus handcrafted cocktails by the city’s top bartenders, local beers and a lively, social bar atmosphere. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 675 W. Beech St., Little Italy, 619.269.2202. $$$ Map P15 CRAFTSMAN NEW AMERICAN TAVERN This stylish Encinitas watering hole serves up the Devil’s Free Range Chicken, deep-fried Brussels sprouts and Root Beer Cake. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). 267 El Camino Real, Encinitas, 760.452.2000. $$ Map V22 DICK’S LAST RESORT Buckets of ribs, catfish and crab legs served by a purposefully irreverent waitstaff, plus 66 beers and live music (Th-Sa). A fun, casual hangout in the Gaslamp. L, D (daily). 345 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.231.9100. $$ Map Q16 ECLIPSE CHOCOLATE BAR & BISTRO The region’s leading artisanal chocolatier is also a full-service restaurant serving brunch and dinner daily. Sip on craft beers and wines, sample chocolates and pastries, and don’t miss the roasted chicken potpie for dinner. B, L, D (daily). 2145 Fern St., South Park, 619.578.2984. $$ Map J12 FLORENT RESTAURANT & LOUNGE Housed in the original “Old City Hall” building, Florent features upscale, yet playful, American comfort food. Start with the crispy Brussels sprouts and beef sliders; for entreés try the stuffed Jidori chicken and grilled New York strip steak. Plus, updated classic cocktails and craft brews. Br, D (daily). 672 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.595.0123. $$ Map Q16 HERRINGBONE Expect farm-to-sea American dishes with global influences, handcrafted cocktails and 100-year-old olive trees enhancing the upscale décor inside this refined warehouse-style space. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 7837 Herschel Ave., La Jolla, 858.459.0221. $$$ Map W19
THE MED La Valencia’s charming, Mediterranean-villastyle eatery features locally sourced, sustainable dishes such as miso Chilean sea bass, an ocean-view terrace and live music five days a week. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1132 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.551.3741. $$ Map W19 NEIGHBORHOOD This gastropub is a bit snobbish about its condiments (you’ll find no ketchup here), but makes up for it with tasty gourmet burgers, hand-cut sweet potato fries and craft brews. L, D (daily). 777 G St., East Village, 619.446.0002. $$ Map Q16 SEA & SMOKE Wood-fired meat, seafood and veggies are the menu stars at this North County spot where sharing plates family-style is encouraged. Inventive side dishes include duck-fat-roasted potatoes, braised-bacon kale and yellow-beet gratin. B, L, D (daily). 2690 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.925.8212. $$ Map X22 SEARSUCKER At this hotspot, Brian Malarkey crafts a bold menu that ranges from a mammoth 32-oz. rib-eye to mini appetizer bites. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 611 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.7327, Map Q16; 12995 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.369.5700. $$$ Map X22 SLATER’S 50/50 Design your own gourmet burger, or choose from one of 10 specialty burgers, including the Peanut Butter & Jellousy burger with peanut butter, strawberry jelly and bacon. Signature patty is the 50/50 with ground beef and bacon. L, D (daily); B (Su). 2750 Dewey Road, #193, Point Loma, 619.398.2600. $$ Map J9 SOLACE & THE MOONLIGHT LOUNGE The second of three eateries in Chef Matt Gordon’s upscale-comfortfood empire, this North County favorite focuses on seafood. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 25 East E St., Encinitas, 760.753.2433. $$$ Map W22
Got a sweet tooth that needs satisfying? Try one of the county’s popular dessert outposts—including D Bar San Diego and Extraordinary Desserts—listed on pp. 42-43.
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Dining STACKED “Food well built” is the slogan at this innovative eatery where diners order their meal via an iPad at every table, allowing them to customize their own burger, pizza, salad, mac ’n’ cheese and more as they please. Plus, a full bar lets you choose your own beverage, too. L, D (daily). 7007 Friars Road, #356, Fashion Valley, 619.225.7900. $$ Map M16 STATION TAVERN Expect a cool, architectural indoor/ outdoor, family-friendly (and dog-friendly) space with picnic tables, serving up craft beers, cocktails and burgers. Also try the locally sourced farmers market salad with a side of sweet potato fries. L, D (Tu-Su). 2204 Fern St., South Park, 619.255.0657. $ Map K12 TIN ROOF Straight outta Nashville, this live music joint/ restaurant features nightly entertainment in a fun, laidback atmosphere. Come for the music and stay for the signature “TennMex” food—a unique blend of Southern and Mexican cuisine—like brisket nachos, hot wings, pulled pork tacos and inventive burgers. L, D (daily). 401 G St., Gaslamp, 619.230.8606. $$ Map N16 TRACTOR ROOM This dimly lit spot is decked out in hunting-lodge chic, with a game-heavy menu that includes crispy elk ravioli and venison meatloaf, plus craft cocktails. (Oh, and the corn bread that arrives on the side is enough to satisfy six people.) D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 3687 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.543.1007. $$$ Map N16 UNION KITCHEN & TAP Beer, craft cocktails, boutique wines and tavern-style grub are all on the menu. Choose from 20 rotating taps of mostly local brews to wash down a bison burger or sweet potato poutine. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1108 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.230.2337, Map V22; 333 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.795.9463. $$ Map Q16 URBAN SOLACE Neighborhood joint features updated New American comfort cuisine and an intriguing wine, craft beer and cocktail list. Locals love the warm cheese biscuits and Sunday bluegrass brunch. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 3823 30th St., North Park, 619.295.6464. $$$ Map N17
Breakfast BEACH GRASS CAFÉ Breezy, casually chic eatery by the beach serves up a health-conscious menu of granola, flapjacks, salads and more. B, L, D (daily). 159 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Solana Beach, 858.509.0632. $$ Map X22 BRIAN’S 24 Old-school clubby spot features a mahogany bar, crystal chandelier and 24-hour dining (midnight brunch, anyone?). Burgers, steaks and chicken ‘n’ waffles, too. B, L, D (daily). 828 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.702.8410. $ Map Q16 CAFÉ 222 Locals line up in droves for Café 222’s quirky American cuisine and whimsical décor. Popular menu items include the peanut butter waffle with bananas at breakfast; tuna melts, salads and more at lunch. B, L (daily). 222 Island Ave., downtown, 619.236.9902. $ Map R15 THE COTTAGE Housed in a charming turn-of-thecentury home complete with a quaint garden patio, the Cottage is hugely popular among locals for breakfast (don’t miss the coffee cake). Sandwiches, salads and burgers at lunch. B, L (daily). 7702 Fay Ave., La Jolla, 858.454.8409. $ Map W19 HASH HOUSE A GO GO Huge portions of “twisted farm food” that will make your eyes bulge: egg scrambles and more arrive on massive platters, speared with a giant rosemary branch. B, L (daily); D (Tu-Su). 3628 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.298.4646. $$ Map N16 ISABEL’S CANTINA This cool, casual spot serves health-conscious, bold-flavored Latin and Asian-influenced fare. For breakfast, try the soy-chorizo scramble or blackberry-banana pancakes. B, L, D (daily). 966 Felspar St., Pacific Beach, 858.272.8400. $$ Map H7
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Dining THE MISSION Acclaimed mini-chain is known for pancakes, French toast, smoothies, breakfast burritos and health-conscious Latin dishes. B, L (daily). 3795 Mission Blvd., Mission Beach, 858.488.9060, Map I8; 2801 University Ave., North Park, 619.220.8992, Map J12; 1250 J St., East Village, 619.232.7662. $ Map Q17 RICHARD WALKER’S PANCAKE HOUSE Popular casual spot with a huge selection of mouthwatering flapjacks and other breakfast and lunch fare. Favorites include the baked apple pancake. B, L (daily). 520 Front St., downtown, 619.231.7777, Map Q15; 909 Prospect St. La Jolla, 858.459.8800. $ Map W19 SNOOZE, AN A.M. EATERY This bright, energetic joint features breakfast and brunch faves like eggs Benedict, pancakes, French toast, cocktails, a fun coffee menu and a breakfast pot pie. B, L (daily). 3940 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.500.3344, Map N16; 3435 Del Mar Heights Road, Del Mar, 858.703.5300. $$ Map X22
California Cuisine 1500 OCEAN House-made pastas and adventurous starters define this special-occasion spot, complete with an ocean-view terrace, beach cabanas and a wine cellar. D (Tu-Sa). Hotel del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.522.8490. $$$$ Map L10 ARTERRA A favorite power-lunch spot with a seasonal menu, plus a sushi bar and outdoor lounge with fire pits and cabanas. B (daily), L (M–F), D (M– Sa). Marriott Del Mar, 11966 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.369.6032. $$$ Map X22 BLUEFIRE GRILL Omni La Costa Resort’s stylish destination dining spot serves coastal delicacies and seasonal vegetables. Elegant setting with indoor waterfall and outdoor fire pits. D (Tu-Sa). 2100 Costa del Mar Road, Carlsbad, 760.929.6306. $$$ Map T22 CUSP DINING & DRINKS Head 11 stories up at Hotel La Jolla for Mediterranean-influenced California cuisine and small plates overlooking the coastline. D (nightly), B (M-F), Br (Sa-Su). 7955 La Jolla Shores Drive, La Jolla, 858.551.3620. $$$ Map V20 EAT AT THE PEARL Executive Chef Elliott Townsend oversees a coastal California menu at EAT at The Pearl, the boutique hotel’s retro-cool eatery. Expect seasonal, local dishes where simple flavors rule; we love the duck breast, gluten-free gnocchi and shrimp ‘n’ grits. D (M-Sa), Br (Su). 1410 Rosecrans St., Point Loma, 619.226.6100. $$ Map J8 THE FLYING PIG PUB AND KITCHEN This foodieapproved restaurant in Oceanside features farm-to-table cuisine focused on California-infused American dishes. Think handmade pasta, organic salads and Duroc pork belly. D (nightly). 626 S. Tremont St., Oceanside, 760.453.2940. $$$ Map S22
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GEORGE’S AT THE COVE La Jolla institution comprises three levels (from elegant to casual) of ocean views. Chef Trey Foshee creates seafood, steak and regional cuisine. Mid-level bar is a great happy hour spot. L, D (daily). 1250 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.4244. $$$$ Map W19 GRANT GRILL Expect seasonal dishes with ingredients native to the region—jumbo diver scallops are a signature dish—while Jeff Josenhans crafts his mixology magic behind the bar, all housed inside the historical US Grant hotel. B, L, D (daily). 326 Broadway, downtown, 619.744.2077. $$$$ Map Q16 GREAT MAPLE This upscale “diner” serves wellcrafted comfort food and serious drinks. Choose from salads, burgers, sandwiches, seafood, pasta and flatbread pizzas, but save room for house-made apple pie or the popular maple-bacon doughnuts. B, L (M-F); D (Tu-Su); Br (Sa-Su). 1451 Washington St., Hillcrest, 619.255.2282. $$ Map N17
Open daily from 3:00 PM to 1:30 AM | 3 hours of free parking with validation Located inside Grand Hyatt San Diego | 1 Market Place, San Diego, CA 92101 40th Floor, Harbor Tower | 619 358 6731
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Dining JAYNE’S GASTROPUB Gastronomy meets pub grub at this stylish, UK-inspired casual eatery in North Park. Don’t miss the Jayne burger, eclectic wines and romantic back patio. D (Tu-Sa). 4677 30th St., North Park, 619.563.1011. $$$ Map J12 JRDN Hip restaurant and bar at Tower 23 hotel has steak and seafood dishes, plus a full raw bar and happy hour specials. Patio offers boardwalk and ocean views, plus fun people-watching. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 723 Felspar St., Pacific Beach, 858.270.5736. $$$ Map H7 JSIX Modern, recently remodeled restaurant inside Hotel Solamar features seasonal dishes inspired by the coastline and area farms, lots of handcrafted elements and wines from Washington to Baja; plus craft cocktails. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 616 J St., Gaslamp, 619.531.8744. $$$ Map Q16 JUNIPER & IVY Top Chef star Richard Blais oversees the modern Cali-American menu loaded with artisanal dishes—from raw seafood, pastas and small plates, to mains such as prime strip loin and local chicken served with English pea gnocchi. D (nightly). 2228 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.269.9036. $$$ Map P15
TUESDAY $
4 TA C O S 4 P M – C LO S E !
Ceviche
WEDNESDAY
10 EACH from 4 P M - C L O S E
$
Weekend BRUNCH 11A M - 3 P M S A T U R D AY A N D S U N D AY
KITCHEN 1540 Expect simple, seasonal comfort dishes such as chicken ‘n’ dumplings, shrimp ‘n’ grits, duck breast, escargot tortellini and fried-green tomatoes at this chic eatery at L’Auberge Del Mar. Ask for a table on the oceanview terrace. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.793.6460. $$$$ Map X22 LEROY’S KITCHEN & LOUNGE Recognized for its farm-to-table fare, Leroy’s is a comfortably hip locals’ hangout. Executive Chef JC Colon offers a variety of unique seafood, meat and pasta dishes. Favorites include roasted rainbow trout and duck pot pie. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1015 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.6087. $$ Map L11 MARKET RESTAURANT + BAR Chef Carl Schroeder crafts modern cuisine using local produce, handmade cheeses and locally raised meat. Highlights include the blue cheese soufflé, market veggie tasting and Meyer lemon-cream crepes. D (nightly). 3702 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.523.0007. $$$$ Map X22 NINE-TEN Inside the Grande Colonial Hotel, awardwinning Chef Jason Knibb creates evolving California cuisine from local, organic ingredients. The Jamaican jerk pork belly appetizer and the braised short rib entrée are highlights. Exceptional wine list and handcrafted cocktails. B, L, D (daily). 910 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.964.5400. $$$ Map V19 THE PATIO ON GOLDFINCH Casual neighborhood spot features a glass-encased cheese cave and two “living walls.” Seasonal menu includes salads, flatbreads, seafood and meat dishes; as well as an array of cocktails, global wines and local craft beers. Canine friends are welcome on the patio. B, L (M-F); D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su). 4020 Goldfinch St., Mission Hills, 619.501.5090. $$$ Map N15 THE PATIO ON LAMONT This popular neighborhood nook features craft cocktails, beer and a global menu with California influences. Expect such dishes as the braised pork shank with bacon and asiago risotto. Dogs welcome. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 4445 Lamont St., Pacific Beach, 858.412.4648. $$ Map H8 PREPKITCHEN LITTLE ITALY Its stylish second-story locale makes for a fab alternative to the area’s Italian eateries. Daily specials include the farmers market flatbread and local halibut. D (nightly), L (M-F), Br (Sa-Su). 1660 India St., Little Italy, 619.398.8383. $$$ Map P15 STARLITE Dazzling design complements sustainably farmed food and boutique cocktails at this ultra-hip restaurant/bar. Don’t miss the burger on brioche and the signature Starlite Mule. Snag a seat around the main bar or on the back patio. D (nightly). 21+. 3175 India St., Midtown, 619.358.9766. $$ Map O15
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Dining TABLE 926 Intimate bistro with cuisine that highlights seasonal, local flavors and sustainable ingredients. Entrées range from fish, chicken and duck to pork tenderloin, lamb ragu and a burger, plus local brews and an extensive wine list. D (Tu-Su). 926 Turquoise St., Pacific Beach, 858.539.0926. $$ Map H7 WAYPOINT PUBLIC This laid-back gastropub has a little something for everyone: 100 international bottled beers; a custom 30-tap system focused on West Coast craft brews; and comfort dishes that range from a smoked brisket sandwich to crispy shrimp tacos, fries and jalapeño slaw. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 3794 30th St., North Park, 619.255.8778. $$ Map J12 WHISKNLADLE Chef Ryan Johnston uses local organic ingredients in dishes like roasted bone marrow and chorizo-date fritters. Trendy bar and lounge area serves up exceptional craft cocktails. Outdoor patio is great for people-watching in La Jolla. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1044 Wall St., La Jolla, 858.551.7575. $$$ Map W19
Chinese DEL MAR RENDEZVOUS Upscale Chinese bistro featuring entrées like Mongolian rack of lamb and steak Shangri-La, plus steamed dumplings and sauces made in-house. L (M-Sa), D (nightly). 1555 Camino Del Mar #102, Del Mar, 858.755.2669. $$ Map X22 DUMPLING INN & SHANGHAI SALOON This popular eatery serves up some of the finest Chinese cuisine in the city. Menu standouts include the kung pao sea bass, shrimp chow mein, Szechuan pork and deep-fried beefcurry dumplings; plus a new full bar. L, D (Tu-Su). 4625 Convoy St., Kearny Mesa, 858.268.9638. $$ Map R16 JASMINE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT Popular for dim sum, this casual spot also serves authentic Hong Kongstyle seafood, duck and barbecue entrées at dinner. L, D (daily). 4609 Convoy St., Kearny Mesa, 858.268.0888. $$ Map G11 LUCKY LIU’S This campy-cool Gaslamp haunt serves classic Chinese comfort food, from barbecued spare ribs to handmade pork and shrimp dumplings. L, D (daily). 332 J St., Gaslamp, 619.255.5487. $$ Map Q16
Desserts BAKE SALE BAKERY Satisfy your sweet tooth at this charming café, where all of the breakfast pastries, cookies and other tempting treats—including morning rolls and “Pop Tarts”—are made by scratch daily. For lunch, choose from more savory fare like salads and sandwiches made on homemade bread and croissants. B, L (M-Sa). 815 F St., East Village, 619.515.2224. $ Map Q16
Fresh Fish. Flown in Daily. Sleek and sophisticated, The Oceanaire provides the perfect setting to enjoy an unrivaled atmosphere where you will indulge in tantalizing chef creations, exceptional wines and exquisite desserts.
D BAR SAN DIEGO This stylish full-service restaurant serves cocktails, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch, but save plenty of room for dessert. Known for its pastries and unique creations, D Bar’s dessert menu is exceptional; try the molten cake with a truffle center and the Faux Foster Banana Imposter. D (Tu-Su), L (W-F), Br (Sa-Su). 3930 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.299.3227. $$ Map N16 EXTRAORDINARY DESSERTS Topped with edible flowers and gold flakes, Karen Krasne’s stunning tarts, cakes and other treats are truly extraordinary. The menu also features cheese plates, charcuterie, salads, paninis and wine. Open daily at both locations. 1430 Union St., Little Italy, 619.294.7001, Map P16; 2929 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.294.2132. $$ Map O16 HEAVENLY CUPCAKE This sweets boutique rotates flavors daily, from banana to mocha chip to gluten-free red velvet. Recent favorites include salted vanilla caramel and “Death by Chocolate.” Cupcakes are handbaked and frosted every morning the oldfashioned way. Open daily. 518 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.235.9235. $ Map Q16
Gaslamp District • 400 J Street • (619) 858-2277 theoceanaire.com • Reserve your table today.
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Dining MICHELE COULON DESSERTIER A longtime favorite among La Jolla locals, the renowned Michele Coulon whips up tortes, pies, cakes, confections, homemade jams, breads and quiches using local organic products—all made from scratch. Open M-Sa. 7556-D Fay Ave., La Jolla, 858.456.5098. $ Map W19
Eclectic/Fusion BALI HAI Tiki oasis has a Polynesian menu, featuring Korean barbecued ribs and wok-fried whole striped bass, plus fabulous bay views and stiff mai tais. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). 2230 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.222.1181. $$$ Map K9 INDIGO GRILL The remodeled Cohn Group restaurant features a Latin-inspired menu overseen by Executive Chef Jason Maitland. The meat-centric menu includes unique offerings such as achiote-marinated Prime flat iron steak and “Flaming Hot Cheetos,” made with pig ears and cotija cheese. D (nightly). 1536 India St., Little Italy, 619.234.6802. $$$ Map P15 ROPPONGI RESTAURANT & SUSHI BAR Cuttingedge eatery with stylish décor, including a wall-sized aquarium and outdoor fireplace. Excellent Pacific Rim– style tapas, sushi and specialty rolls; plus wine, beer and signature cocktails. D (nightly). 875 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.551.5252. $$$ Map W19
French 100 WINES HILLCREST This cozy French bistro and wine den serves Euro-style comfort food, from phyllocrusted sweetbreads to bone marrow with brown butter capers. D (nightly). 1027 University Ave., Hillcrest, 619.491.0100. $$$ Map N16 ADDISON Chef William Bradley creates deliriously tasty, elegant dishes from local ingredients with French influences at this ultra-fine-dining restaurant at Fairmont Grand Del Mar. D (Tu-Sa). 5200 Grand Del Mar Way, Del Mar, 858.314.1900. $$$$ Map X22
AGAVE DEL MAR | Gorgeous Ocean Front Views, Authentic Gourmet Mexican Cuisine, Great Happy Hour Specials. Beautiful Private Event Spaces
BLEU BOHEME Kensington’s charming bistro, with its candlelit rooms and old-world European ambiance, is known for its traditional French fare—including mussels, coq au vin and boeuf bourguignon. L, D (daily). 4090 Adams Ave., Kensington, 619.255.4167. $$$ Map I12 BO-BEAU Chef Katherine Humphus’ classic French dishes (boeuf bourguignon, chicken fricasse) are served in a cozy and inviting atmosphere in bohemian Ocean Beach. Great spot for conversation and date nights. D (nightly). 4996 W. Point Loma Blvd., Ocean Beach, 619.224.2884. $$$ Map J8
858 793 0758 858 793 0796 MOLADELMAR.COM
AGAVEDM.COM
MOLA SPANISH BISTRO | Unique Tapas Style Spanish Bistro, Craft Cocktails, Fantastic Happy Hour Deals, Live Spanish Fusion Music Every Weekend
CAFÉ CHLOE Locals’ fave offers afternoon “urban tea” (booking required) and bistro cuisine like smoked trout salad, cheese plates and moules frites in a casually elegant setting, complete with patio. B, L, D (daily). 721 Ninth Ave., East Village, 619.232.3242. $$ Map Q17 CAFÉ LA RUE This casual bistro inside La Valencia Hotel serves up modern twists on European cuisine, including loup de mer, kale and quinoa salad, cioppino and Brussels sprouts. Full bar features beer, wine and specialty cocktails; plus happy hour daily from 4-7 p.m. B, L, D (daily). 1132 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.0771. $$$ Map W19 MARINE ROOM Outstanding nouveau French food such as macadamia-pesto-crusted salmon and artisanal cheeses by Chef Bernard Guillas in an unparalleled oceanfront location. D (nightly). 2000 Spindrift Drive, La Jolla, 858.459.7222. $$$$ Map W20
mo a SPANISH BISTRO
Both Restaurants Conveniently Located in the Del Mar Plaza
1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar CA 92014 Call us for Reservations
MILLE FLEURS This romantic, fine-dining restaurant is a classic date spot. The cuisine is creative, updated French/ California (think: escargot and whole Dover sole meunière). L (Tu–F), D (nightly). 6009 Paseo Delicias, Rancho Santa Fe, 858.756.3085. $$$$ Map W23
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Dining PAMPLEMOUSSE GRILLE Chef Jeffrey Strauss brings an imaginative flair to his country French–influenced American menu in a quirky, casually elegant setting near the racetrack. Don’t miss the savory lamb stew and basil-roasted sea bass with sautéed rock shrimp and a polenta cake. L (F), D (nightly). 514 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.792.9090. $$$$ Map W22 THE SMOKING GOAT This cozy neighborhood bistro serves up French and American cuisine with a countryside flair. Expect such dishes as the Berkshire pork chop, steak frites, and its famous duck fat truffle fries. D (Tu-Su). 3408 30th St., North Park, 619.955.5295. $$$ Map J12
International BERTA’S LATIN AMERICAN Latin American specialties can be sampled via tapas, seafood and main dishes such as Honduran seafood soup and the Brazilian vatapá. L, D (Tu-Su). 3928 Twiggs St., Old Town, 619.295.2343. $$ Map N13 CAFÉ SEVILLA A celebrated staple of the Gaslamp, Sevilla still serves up the same Spanish tapas, seafood specialties and flamenco and salsa lessons that have made it a longtime local favorite. D (nightly). 353 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.5979. $$$ Map R16 COSTA BRAVA Coastal eatery serves Spain’s greatest hits, from jamón iberico to paella to tapas to sangria. Live music throughout the week. L, D (daily). 1653 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach, 858.273.1218. $$$ Map H8
BEST NEW BEER BEST BURGERS RESTAURANTS IN AMERICA IN AMERICA DRAFT Magazine
Eater National
BEST BEER RESTAURANT IN SAN DIEGO
BEST FAMILY-FRIENDLY DINING IN SAN DIEGO
West Coaster Magazine
San Diego Magazine
MOLA Charming Spanish bistro serves up several unique and classic tapas, such as tortilla española and patatas bravas, as well as salads, flatbreads, and meat and seafood dishes. Enjoy live Spanish fusion music every weekend and daily happy hour specials (3-6:30 p.m.; all day Su) featuring beer, wine and craft cocktails. D (nightly). 1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.793.0796. $$ Map X22 MONSOON Authentic Northern Indian cuisine in a chic environment. Bounteous lunch buffet; entrées include Bangalore masala and lamb curry. L, D (daily). 729 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.234.5555. $$$ Map Q16 OB WAREHOUSE This casual bar and eatery (and newest member of the Cohn Restaurant Group) focuses on global cuisine and handcrafted cocktails. Inside the large industrial space, you’ll find salads, flatbreads and entrées such as garam masala-dusted scallops with jeweled couscous and Moroccan spice-rubbed flat iron steak. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 4839 Newport Ave., Ocean Beach, 619.222.1700. $$$ Map J8 THE PRADO Its dramatic garden patio is lovely, and the eclectic American menu is spiked with Latin/Italian flair. L (daily), D (Tu-Su). 1549 El Prado, House of Hospitality, Balboa Park, 619.557.9441. $$$ Map O17 EL Q’ERO A cozy Peruvian restaurant featuring regional classics such as lomo saltado and the signature beverage, chicha morada, made from purple corn. L (Tu-Sa), D (M-Sa). 564 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.753.9050. $$ Map V22 QUEENSTOWN PUBLIC HOUSE Salads, burgers and specialties like fish ‘n’ chips rule the menu at this New Zealand-inspired eatery. Weekend brunch includes chicken ’n’ waffles and sangria. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1557 Columbia St., Little Italy, 619.546.0444. $$ Map P15 REI DO GADO Brazilian-style steakhouse serves succulent mesquite-cooked beef and pork, brought tableside on skewers until you tell them to stop. L, D (daily). 939 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.702.8464. $$$ Map Q16 SOLTAN BANOO Eclectic, casual Persian restaurant featuring lamb, beef, vegan and curry dishes with fragrant basmati rice. L (daily), D (nightly). 4645 Park Blvd., University Heights, 619.298.2801. $$ Map M18
Solace & the Moonlight Lounge is built on the foundations of honest food, creative drinks & exemplary service. Chef Matt Gordon’s menu reflects sustainable, seasonal American cuisine with an emphasis on fresh coastal ingredients. Located in a LEED certified building in the heart of downtown Encinitas, this hot spot also features live music on Sundays & daily oyster specials.
25 East E Street, Encinitas 760.753.2433 eatatsolace.com / solaceencinitas
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Dining Italian ACQUA AL 2 Sister restaurant to a like-named establishment in Florence, Italy, this spot (a Padres player favorite) serves fresh, Tuscan-style pastas, seafood and steaks in a bistro-style setting. L (M–F), D (nightly). 322 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.230.0382. $$$ Map Q16 ALEXANDER’S Romantic neighborhood eatery known for its darling back patio, white-on-white décor, traditional pasta dishes and its White Room pizza with chicken and pesto. D (nightly). 3391 30th St., North Park, 619.281.2539. $$ Map J12 AMICI’S EAST COAST PIZZERIA Traditional New Yorkstyle thin-crust pizzas are served fresh out of the brick oven here; plus seasonal salads and pasta dishes. Choose a classic or create your own pie. L, D (daily). 811 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.729.9988. $$ Map W19 ARRIVEDERCI Charming Hillcrest restaurant with sidewalk seating draws locals for its daily gnocchi. Sandwiches, pizzas, salads and wines also available. L, D (daily). 3845 Fourth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.299.6282. $$$ Map N16 BENCOTTO This mod spot in the Q building earns raves for simple but well-executed create-your-own pasta dishes and other Italian specialities. L, D (Tu-Su). 750 W. Fir St., Little Italy, 619.450.4786. $$$ Map P15 BICE Milanese authenticity from Chef Mario Cassineri in the heart of downtown; don’t miss the cheese and salumi bar. Great cocktails, too. D (nightly). 425 Island Ave., Gaslamp, 619.239.BICE. $$$ Map Q16
voted best seafood
BOTTEGA AMERICANO Chef David Warner and team whip up progressive Italian cuisine at this Euro-style “foodery,” which features several interactive food bars. On the menu: stone-fired pizzas, handmade pasta and authentic desserts. L, D (daily). 1195 Island Ave., East Village, 619.255.7800. $$$ Map Q16 BUONA FORCHETTA The wood-fired oven named “Sofia” takes center stage at this cozy corner eatery known for its authentic Neapolitan pizza, house-made pastas and tiramisu. L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 3001 Beech St., South Park, 619.381.4844. $$ Map K12 CUCINA ENOTECA Located in the Flower Hill Promenade, this sister location of Cucina Urbana features a rooftop patio and a Cali-Italian menu packed with organic, sustainable antipasti, salads, pastas (even gluten-free) and artisanal pizzas; plus a retail wine shop. L (Tu-Su), D (nightly). 2730 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.704.4500. $$$ Map X22 CUCINA URBANA Crowded, chic hotspot features house-made pastas, pizzas, farm-to-table dishes, houseinfused cocktails and wine shop. L (Tu-F), D (nightly). 505 Laurel St., Bankers Hill, 619.239.2222. $$$ Map O16 DAVANTI ENOTECA Lively hotspot serves rustic Italian shareable plates like mascarpone polenta, plus pasta, pizza and salumi. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1655 India St., Little Italy, 619.237.9606, Map P15; 12955 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.519.5060. $$$ Map X22
built in 1887 next to the hotel del coronado
Classic and Contemporary Seafood Lunch · Dinner · Brunch · Happy Hour Full Bar · Patio · Sustainable Kids Menu Pet Friendly · Ample Free Parking
come in, get hooked 1701 STRAND WAY CORONADO TEL 619 435 0155
bluewatergrill.com
IL FORNAIO Authentic Italian recipes including excellent pasta, pizza and regional specialties paired with handmade breads. Coronado location has great bay views of the downtown skyline. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1555 Camino Del Mar #301, Del Mar, 858.755.8876, Map X22; 1333 First St., Coronado, 619.437.4911. $$$ Map L10 ISOLA PIZZA BAR Casually elegant restaurant and bar featuring a romantic back patio, sidewalk patio and hand-tossed pizzas baked in a stone wood-burning oven; plus pastas, antipasti and boutique wines. L, D (Tu-Su). 1526 India St., Little Italy, 619.255.4230. $$$ Map P15
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Dining JACK & GIULIO’S Known for its scampi, spaghetti and meatballs, and other traditional dishes, this Old Town Italian spot is a local favorite. Excellent wines for pairing. D (nightly). 2391 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.294.2074. $$$ Map N14 MONELLO The vibe is casual-glam, with the menu focusing on Milanese street food—pizzas, flatbreads, gelato, a daily aperitivo from 4-7 p.m. with hosted nibbles from the chef, and its signature vermouth. B, L, D (Tu-Su). 750 W. Fir St., Little Italy, 619.501.0030. $$$ Map P15 OLD VENICE Local favorite boasts candlelit atmosphere, white-on-white décor and Italian cuisine with Mediterranean flavors. Enjoy dishes like the spicy Roma shrimp and chicken picatta. L (M–Sa), D (nightly). 2910 Cañon St., Point Loma, 619.222.5888. $$$ Map K8 PIATTI Delicious pastas, pizza made from a stonehearth oven and other Italian faves near the ocean in La Jolla Shores. Elegant and family-friendly, with a quaint patio. L, D (daily); Br (Sa–Su). 2182 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, 858.454.1589. $$$ Map V20 PO PAZZO Italian for “a little crazy,” the menu at this Little Italy spot goes way beyond pasta, to steaks, seafood, veal and more. Enjoy hearty portions and live music on the weekends L, D (daily). 1917 India St., Little Italy, 619.238.1917. $$$ Map P15 TRATTORIA FANTASTICA Popular eatery serving Sicilian fare in a casual setting, with a charming patio in the back. Specialties include wood-fired pizza and red wine osso bucco. B, L, D (daily). 1735 India St., Little Italy, 619.234.1735. $$ Map P15 TRATTORIA I TRULLI Superb pasta and sauces in a rustic setting featuring more than 100 wines. The créme brûlée shouldn’t be missed. L, D (daily). 830 S. Coast Hwy. 101, #100, Encinitas, 760.943.6800. $$ Map V22 VIGILUCCI’S RISTORANTE Italian favorites such as spaghetti alla carbonara, chicken piccata and antipasti; plus Prime steaks, seafood, veal, salads, dessert and a wellrounded wine list—all coupled with elegant décor, cozy piano bar and ocean views. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 1300 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.522.0946, Map L10; 2943 State St., Carlsbad, 760.434.2500. $$$ Map T22
Live Music. Cocktails. Great food. 401 G Street, Gaslamp www.TinRoofSanDiego.com
VIVACE Marvelous Northern Italian cuisine with a California twist made fresh using organic ingredients at this gorgeous restaurant at the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort. D (M-Sa), Br (Su). 7100 Four Seasons Point, Carlsbad, 760.603.6999. $$$$ Map U22
Japanese AZUKI SUSHI Seemingly a hole in the wall from the street view, but inside lies a charming eatery and sushi bar with an airy back patio. Excellent, expertly prepared sushi and specialty rolls. L (M-F), D (nightly). 2321 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.238.4760. $$$ Map O16 BLUE OCEAN ROBATA & SUSHI BAR High-style design meets modern Japanese cuisine. Yakitoriskewered meats, seafood and veggies are charcoalfired on a robata grill; plus sushi and Japanese whiskey. L (M-Sa), D (nightly). 2958 Madison St., Carlsbad, 760.434.4959. $$$ Map T22 BLUE SMOKE SUSHI LOUNGE Fashion Valley Mall’s stylish new eatery features signature sushi rolls and tapasstyle Japanese dishes in a modern dining environment; plus wine, beer and sake. L, D (daily). 7007 Friars Road, #336, Fashion Valley, 619.291.7711. $$ Map M16 CAFÉ JAPENGO Bustling atmosphere attracts a hip after-work crowd to this upscale spot specializing in artistic sushi and cocktails. L (M–F), D (nightly). 8960 University Center Lane, La Jolla/Golden Triangle, 858.450.3355. $$$ Map T21
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Dining HARNEY SUSHI Find award-winning sushi and specialty rolls with a molecular gastronomy twist at this groovy local mini-chain, where live DJs spin nightly. L (M-F), D (nightly). 3964 Harney St., Old Town, 619.295.3272, Map J10; 301 Mission Ave., Oceanside, 760.967.1820. $$ Map S22 JAMES’ PLACE Located on the UC San Diego campus adjacent to La Jolla Playhouse, this elegant eatery by sushi master James Holder offers exceptional Japanese-fusion cuisine, from a soft-shell crab sandwich to rice and ramen dishes to sushi and specialty rolls. Happy hour from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. D (Tu-Su). 2910 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla, 858.638.7778. $$$ Map T20 NOBU After conquering L.A., New York, Miami, London and Vegas, celeb Chef Nobu Matsuhisa brings his brand to the Hard Rock Hotel. The miso black cod is a house specialty. D (nightly). 207 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.814.4124. $$$$ Map Q16 SHINO SUSHI + KAPPO A simple, modest sushi nook focusing on authentic, superior-quality sushi versus fussy creations. Try the seared hirame with walnuts, fried garlic and citrus; as well as the daily specialty rolls. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Su). 838 W. Ash St., Little Italy, 619.255.2527. $$$ Map P16 SUSHI ON THE ROCK This raucous sushi bar is ideal for the fun-seeker who appreciates rock music and a high-energy atmosphere with creative rolls and fresh catches. L, D (daily). 1025 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.459.3208. $$$ Map W19 TAKA Stylish, upscale sushi bar with inventive Asian fusion dishes, such as miso black cod and oysters dynamite, on and off the menu. D (nightly). 555 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.338.0555. $$$ Map Q16 UNDERBELLY Build your own noodle creations from toppings such as bacon-wrapped mushrooms, beef brisket and kimchee octopus—and add a side of steamed pork buns—at this hip, casual ramen bar. L, D (daily). 750 Fir St., Little Italy, 619.269.4626, Map P15; 3000 Upas St., North Park, 619. 487.9909. $$ Map J12 ZENBU Innovative sushi rolls and sashimi crafted from line-caught fish brought in by the owner’s personal fleet of fishing boats. Ask the staff about special off-the-menu rolls. D (nightly). 2003 San Elijo Ave., Cardiff-by-the-Sea, 760.633.2223. $$$ Map W22
Mexican/Southwestern EL AGAVE Upscale Mexico City-style cuisine with exotic dishes like cuitlacoche tlacoyo on blue corn tortillas; plus 2,000 tequilas available to sample. L, D (daily). 2304 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.220.0692, Map M14
“The Pinnacle of Pancakes” -San Diego Magazine
AGAVE DEL MAR Enjoy authentic gourmet Mexican cuisine with an ocean view. Specialty dishes include traditional mole and sea bass Veracruz. Plus, an extensive selection of tequila and daily happy hour specials (M-Th 3-7 p.m.; F-Sa 3-6 p.m.; all day Su). L, D (daily). 1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.793.0758. $$ Map X22 BARRIO STAR Self-dubbed as “Mexican soul food,” this trendy eatery serves up healthful Latin Americaninfluenced dishes, including tacos, bowls, tortilla soup and chipotle chicken wings. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 2706 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.501.7827. $$ Map O16
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 6:30 AM – 2:30 PM 520 Front Street Downtown San Diego (just South of Market) 619-231-7777
909 Prospect Street La Jolla (between Girard and Fay) 858-459-8800
richardwalkers.com
THE BLIND BURRO Sustainable, Mexican street food with a modern edge, served in an urban-industrial cantina with rustic touches. Don’t miss the mole chicken tacos and the zesty Baja ceviche. L, D (daily). 639 J St., East Village, 619.795.7880. $$ Map Q16 CAFÉ COYOTE South-of-the-border classics in a lively setting in the center of Old Town. Choose from more than 100 tequilas in your margarita to wash down the enchiladas suizas and addictive tortilla chips. B, L, D (daily). 2461 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.291.4695. $$ Map M14
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Dining CANDELAS Find skyline views, tequila prawns flambé over ahi tuna, and Mexico City-inspired dishes at this romantic nouvelle Mexican spot overlooking the bay. D (nightly), Br (Su), L (M-F). 1201 First St., #115, Coronado, 619.435.4900. $$$ Map L10 EN FUEGO Lively Mexican restaurant and bar with traditional dishes such as empanadas, tamales and seafood; plus mojitos and margaritas. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1342 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.6551. $$ Map X22 MIGUEL’S COCINA This family-owned restaurant chain dates back to 1982. Each location has its own breezy vibe, but all serve Miguel’s seriously addictive queso dip. L, D (daily); Br (Su, also Sa in Coronado). 2912 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.224.2401, Map K9; 1351 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.4237, Map L10; 2444 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.298.9840. $$ Map N13
FIND YOURSELF
IN SPAIN!
A Gaslamp Favorite for Over 25 Years
OLD TOWN MEXICAN CAFÉ This Old Town staple is famous for its handmade tortillas, which you can see being made fresh daily through the restaurant’s front window. A festive atmosphere and traditional Mexican dishes await inside. B, L, D (daily). 2489 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.297.4330. $ Map N13 PUESTO The taco-laden menu boasts organic ingredients. Favorites include the potato soy chorizo taco, the filet mignon taco and the lobster taco with black beans and crispy onions. Plus specialty cocktails, beer, wine and an array of high-end tequila and mezcal. L, D (daily). 789 W. Harbor Drive, downtown, 619.233.8880, Map K11; 1026 Wall St., La Jolla, 858.454.1260. $$ Map W19
Seafood BLUE POINT COASTAL CUISINE Enjoy Californiastyle seafood and fresh oysters, as well as blue crab and white truffle mac ‘n’ cheese. Hip martini bar with plenty of specialty cocktails and decadent desserts, too. D (nightly). 565 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.6623. $$$$ Map Q16 BLUEWATER BOATHOUSE SEAFOOD GRILL Located right over the water in the historical former boathouse of the Hotel del Coronado, this recently opened, classic fish house features fresh, sustainable seafood, house-made chowders and an oyster bar serving raw oysters and clams on the half shell. L, D (daily). 1701 Strand Way, Coronado, 619.435.0155. $$ Map L10 THE BRIGANTINE Popular chain with a rollicking happy hour, steaks and chops is known for its fish tacos, swordfish and oyster bars. L, D (daily); Br (Su at Del Mar and Coronado). 2725 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.224.2871, Map K8; 3263 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.481.1166, Map X22; 1333 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.4166. $$ Map L10 DUKE’S LA JOLLA You’ll be filled with the Aloha spirit at this island outpost opening this fall—named for the father of modern day surfing, Duke Kahanamoku. The Hawaiibased chain is known for its seasonal, fresh fish and seafood, choice steaks, tropical cocktails and vibrant atmosphere. Save room for the famous Kimo’s Hula Pie. 1216 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.5888. $$$ Map W19 EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD Find seafood classics like shrimp cocktail, ahi tartare and lobster bisque, plus 28-day-aged Prime center-cut steaks. The La Jolla locale boasts beautiful views of the La Jolla Cove and coastline; while the new downtown flagship features live jazz nightly. D (nightly). 1270 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.459.5500, Map W19; 789 W. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.615.0281. $$$$ Map Q15 FISH 101 Casual eatery serves sustainable, seasonal catches and shellfish. Mains range from grilled and fried fish plates to sandwiches to an Angus burger. Plus salads, oysters and soft-serve ice cream. L, D (Tu-Su). 1468 N. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.943.6221. $$ Map V22
RESTAURANT & TAPAS BAR 353 Fifth Avenue, San Diego • 619 233 5979 • CafeSevilla.com
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Dining THE FISH MARKET/TOP OF THE MARKET Casual dining includes seafood, sushi, an oyster bar and bay views. Upstairs: Top of the Market features fine seafood and an expanded wine list. L, D (daily). 750 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.232.3474, Map Q15; 640 Via de la Valle, Solana Beach, 858.755.2277. $$ Map W22 HUMPHREYS RESTAURANT Yacht-club views with bayside seafood like sauteed Georges bank scallops and pepper-crusted king salmon. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). 2241 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.224.3577. $$$ Map K8 IRONSIDE FISH & OYSTER Dine on seafood-focused plates, such as lobster rolls, daily fresh catches and fried oyster sliders, and sip on custom cocktails at this raw bar, bakery and restaurant. Raw bar stays open till midnight (till 2 a.m. F-Sa). L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1654 India St., Little Italy, 619.269.3033. $$$ Map P15 ISLAND PRIME Seafood, steak, salads, cocktails and dreamy views of the skyline. Adjacent C Level Lounge on the spacious deck is popular with the after-work crowd. L (daily at C Level only), D (nightly). 880 Harbor Island Drive, Harbor Island, 619.298.6802. $$$ Map J10 MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S Stylish seafood chain is located in the Omni Hotel. Fresh catches include some local selections like swordfish and albacore from nearby Catalina Island. B, L, D (daily). 675 L St., downtown, 619.645.6545. $$$ Map Q16 THE OCEANAIRE SEAFOOD ROOM Retro oceanliner design features a bustling cocktail scene with oyster bar. (Try a dirty vodka martini with a selection of oysters on the half shell.) Market-fresh seafood and regionally inspired dishes star on the daily-changing menu. D (nightly). 400 J St., Gaslamp, 619.858.2277. $$$ Map Q16 OSETRA Indulge in caviar, vodka and oysters at this progressive eatery, whose interior is defined by a threestory wine tower. Prime-aged meats are also on the menu. D (nightly). 904 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.239.1800. $$$ Map Q16 PACIFIC COAST GRILL Reopened as a new restaurant plopped literally right on the beach, Pacific Coast Grill epitomizes casual-chic coastal dining. Locals love the lobster tacos, and the view is the stuff of California dreams. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 2526 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Cardiff-by-theSea, 760.479.0721. $$$ Map V22 PACIFICA DEL MAR Upscale, ocean-view, Asian fusion spot attracts a power crowd with mustard catfish and sugar-spiced salmon. Visit the vodka bar with more than 160 selections. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.0476. $$$ Map X22 PEOHE’S Tropical décor with spectacular water views and Pacific Rim plates like crispy wok-fried whole bass and fire shrimp. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 1201 First St., Coronado, 619.437.4474. $$$ Map K10 POSEIDON RESTAURANT Its beachfront deck offers unrivaled views. Dinner entrées such as lemon peppercrusted diver scallops make up the contemporary, eclectic menu. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1670 Coast Blvd., Del Mar, 858.755.9345. $$$ Map X22 SALLY’S This marina-facing venue at the Manchester Grand Hyatt is one of San Diego’s best-kept secrets. The seafood-heavy menu includes fresh creations such as diver scallops and crab cakes with tomato relish and avocado aioli. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1 Market Place, Embar cadero, 619.358.6740. $$$ Map Q15 SIRENA Sample gourmet seafood dishes with an exotic twist at this casual eatery. The Latin American-inspired menu features salads, small plates and a raw bar serving up oysters, ceviche and seafood rolls. Standout mains include the grilled octopus and braised scallops in a coconut-ginger sauce. D (Tu-Su), L (Sa-Su). 1901 Columbia St., Little Italy, 619.564.8970. $$ Map P15
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watch • learn • shop Over 200 local artists in 37 working art studios located in Balboa Park. open daily from 11am-4pm
www.spanishvillageart.com Spanish Village Art Center • 1770 Village Place • San Diego, CA 92101
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Dining Steak COWBOY STAR With barstools upholstered in cowhide, this stylish downtown steakhouse is decked out in Old West adornments. Don’t miss the buttermilk-fried sweetbreads. Excellent meat selections and well-crafted cocktails. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Su). 640 10th Ave., East Village, 619.450.5880. $$$ Map Q17 DONOVAN’S STEAK & CHOP HOUSE The power crowd noshes on huge portions of Prime steaks, chops and seafood paired with award-winning wine in a sophisticated atmosphere. D (nightly; M-Sa at La Jolla). 1250 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.450.6666, Map T21; 570 K St., Gaslamp, 619.237.9700. $$$ Map R16 FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR Upscale steakhouse with Prime steaks, seafood, hearty side dishes, classic desserts and an acclaimed wine list (with more than 100 choices by the glass). Elegant, sophisticated ambiance with romantic lighting, plus exceptional service. D (nightly). 8970 University Center Lane, La Jolla, 858.535.0078, Map T21; 380 K St., Gaslamp, 619.237.1155. $$$$ Map Q16 FOGO DE CHÃO Meat is king at this expansive Brazilian steakhouse where gaucho chefs serve 16 cuts of grilled meat via continuous tableside service. Plus a gourmet salad bar, traditional side dishes and a happy hour menu with smaller bites. L (M-F), D (nightly). 668 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.338.0500. $$$ Map Q16 GREYSTONE, THE STEAKHOUSE Prime steaks, seafood (try the Dover sole prepared tableside) and pastas in a great downtown location. Beefy menu includes filet mignon potstickers, Kobe carpaccio and more. D (nightly). 658 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.232.0225. $$$ Map Q16 MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE USDA Prime-aged beef, seafood, an excellent wine list, cocktails, decadent desserts, crisp white linens and great service at the edge of the historical Gaslamp Quarter. D (nightly). 285 J St., downtown, 619.696.3369. $$$$ Map Q16 STAKE CHOPHOUSE & BAR Modern steakhouse with a luxe vibe features a wide variety of steaks—including rare cuts such as wagyu and Kobe—as well as seafood; plus a 2,000-bottle glass wine cellar. D (nightly). 1309 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.522.0077. $$$ Map L10 VIGILUCCI’S SEAFOOD, STEAK & CHOP HOUSE Italian-influenced chop house features steaks, chicken, veal, fresh catches, oysters (baked and on the half shell), hearty salads and an array of fresh pastas such as the classic capellini checca—all served up with breathtaking beach views. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 3878 Carlsbad Blvd., Carlsbad, 760.434.2580. $$$ Map T22 THE WELLINGTON STEAK AND MARTINI LOUNGE Grab an old-school steak and martini at this intimate, sexy supper club and chophouse in Mission Hills, also known for its wild venison and namesake Beef Wellington dishes. D (Tu-Sa). 729 W. Washington St., Mission Hills, 619.295.6001. $$$ Map N15
Thai LOTUS THAI Elegant bamboo décor and modern Thai cuisine, featuring sophisticated, authentic dishes honoring regional recipes from Bangkok, Chiang Mai and south Thailand. Specialties include Choo Chee pork chops and roasted half-duck curry. L (M-F), D (nightly). 3761 Sixth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.299.8272, Map N16; 906 Market St., East Village, 619.595.0115. $$ Map Q17 PLUMERIA VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT This casual Thai eatery features mock chicken and marinated tofu satay skewers. Dine under sparkling chandeliers surrounded by subtle floral décor. L, D (daily). 4661 Park Blvd., University Heights, 619.269.9989. $$ Map M18
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Dining RAMA Expect creative twists on traditional Thai in a romantic, exotic setting with billowing drapes and a waterfall in the back room. Specialties include the Crying Tiger, with thinly sliced filet mignon; and the Kanna Moo Krab, with crispy pork belly, kai lan and garlic. L (M-Sa), D (nightly). 327 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.501.8424. $$ Map Q16 SAFFRON San Diego’s first authentic Thai restaurant is known for its saffron-marinated chicken, noodles, satay and healthy approach to traditional dishes. Quick-service order counter, reasonable prices and super casual ambiance. L, D (daily). 3731 India St., Mission Hills, 619.574.7737. $ Map J10 SPICE & RICE THAI KITCHEN Local favorite offers creative twist on Thai in specialties like Panang curry duck, crispy chicken with red curry and spicy chili halibut. L (M–Sa), D (nightly). 7734 Girard Ave., La Jolla, 858.456.0466. $$ Map W19 TASTE OF THAI Delicious Thai food in a charming space with a sidewalk patio fronting busy University Avenue. Try the Tom Yum soup and yellow curry with spicy fried rice, followed by the fried bananas with coconut ice for dessert. L, D (daily). 527 University Ave., Hillcrest, 619.291.7525. $$ Map N16
Wine Bars COUNTERPOINT Ultra-friendly neighborhood wine bar serves artisanal cheeses, salads, burgers, seasonal entrées, weekend brunch, craft beer, international wines—by the bottle and glass—and custom cocktails. Br (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 830 25th St., Golden Hill, 619.564.6722. $$ Map Q18 THE ROSE WINE PUB An earthy, restored 1927 building, constructed with the reclaimed redwood of a historical South Park home, this intimate neighborhood wine bar also offers craft beer, light bites and wine storage. 2219 30th St., South Park, 619.280.1815. $$ Map J12 WE OLIVE Olive oil tasting room also includes coastalview wine bar featuring California wines and tastings of gourmet food items, plus specialty gifts. Great spot for happy hour, featuring discounted cheese plates and other light gourmet nibbles, as well as a selection of wines by the glass. L, D (daily). 1158 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.551.8250. $$ Map W19 THE WINE LOVER Parisian-inspired wine shop and wine bar features an outdoor patio, California and international wines, gourmet cheeses and imported olives; plus live music on select nights. Store open daily from 4:30 p.m. L (Tu-Su), D (nightly). 3968 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.294.9200. $$$ Map N16 WINE STEALS Vino and bites (cheeses, pizzas and charcuterie) at good prices; plus a wine retail shop with more than 300 bottles. Relaxed neighborhood vibe at all three locations. Open daily. 1953 San Elijo Ave., Cardiff-by-theSea, 760.230.2657, Map W22; 1243 University Ave., Hillcrest, 619.295.1188, Map N17; 2970 Truxton Road, Point Loma, 619.221.1959. $$ Map J9 WINE VAULT & BISTRO This romantic bistro serves five-course, set-menu wine dinners every Saturday, with wine flights and special events during the week. Food ranges from Italian to French to California, depending on the evening. D (Th-Sa). 3731-A India St., Mission Hills, 619.295.3939. $$ Map N14
The Restaurant That Never Sleeps
®
Downtown San Diego’s Only Full-Service 24-Hour Restaurant $9.99 Lunch Specials: Mon – Fri /11 am – 4 pm Daily Happy Hour: 4 pm – 7 pm / Full Bar Available
828 6th Avenue (between E & F) (619) 702-8410 t www.Brians24.com
where?
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RESTAURANTS City Index Our superguide by area, with cross reference to listings by cuisine. GASLAMP QUARTER ACQUA AL 2 (Italian).............................................................................. 45 BARLEYMASH (American)..................................................................... 38 BICE (Italian).................................................................................................. 45 BLUE POINT (Seafood)............................................................................ 48 BRIAN’S 24 (Breakfast)............................................................................ 39 CAFÉ SEVILLA (International)............................................................... 44 DICK’S LAST RESORT (American).................................................... 38 DONOVAN’S (Steak)............................................................................... 51 FLEMING’S (Steak).................................................................................... 51 FLORENT RESTAURANT & LOUNGE (American)................. 38 FOGO DE CHÃO (Steak)...................................................................... 51 GREYSTONE (Steak)................................................................................ 51 JSIX (California Cuisine)............................................................................... 41 LUCKY LIU’S (Chinese)............................................................................ 42 MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S (Seafood) ...................................... 50 MONSOON (International) .................................................................... 44 NOBU (Japanese)......................................................................................... 47 THE OCEANAIRE (Seafood)................................................................. 50 OSETRA (Seafood)...................................................................................... 50 RAMA (Thai)................................................................................................. 52 REI DO GADO (International)............................................................... 44 SEARSUCKER (American)....................................................................... 38 TAKA (Japanese)........................................................................................... 47 UNION KITCHEN & TAP (American).............................................. 39
DOWNTOWN/EAST VILLAGE/EMBARCADERO BAKE SALE BAKERY (Desserts) ....................................................... 42 THE BLIND BURRO (Mexican/Southwestern) . .............................. 47 CAFÉ 222 (Breakfast)................................................................................ 39 CAFÉ CHLOE (French)............................................................................. 43 COUNTERPOINT (Wine Bars).............................................................. 52 COWBOY STAR (Steak)......................................................................... 51 EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD (Seafood)...................................... 48 THE FISH MARKET (Seafood) ............................................................ 50 GRANT GRILL (California Cuisine)........................................................ 40 HORNBLOWER (American)................................................................... 38 LOTUS THAI (Thai)................................................................................... 51 THE MISSION (Breakfast)....................................................................... 40 MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE (Steak)................................... 51 NEIGHBORHOOD (American)............................................................ 38 PUESTO (Mexican/Southwestern).......................................................... 48 RICHARD WALKER’S PANCAKE HOUSE (Breakfast)......... 40 SALLY’S (Seafood)....................................................................................... 50 TOP OF THE MARKET (Seafood)..................................................... 50
LITTLE ITALY
DONOVAN’S (Steak)............................................................................... 51 DUKE’S LA JOLLA (Seafood).............................................................. 48 EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD (Seafood)...................................... 48 FLEMING’S (Steak).................................................................................... 51 GEORGE’S AT THE COVE (California Cuisine)............................ 40 HERRINGBONE (American).................................................................. 38 JAMES’ PLACE (Japanese).................................................................... 47 MARINE ROOM (French)....................................................................... 43 THE MED (American)................................................................................ 38 MICHELE COULON (Desserts)........................................................... 43 NINE-TEN (California Cuisine)................................................................. 41 PIATTI (Italian)............................................................................................... 46 PUESTO (Mexican/Southwestern).......................................................... 48 RICHARD WALKER’S PANCAKE HOUSE (Breakfast)......... 40 ROPPONGI (Eclectic/Fusion).................................................................. 43 SPICE & RICE (Thai)................................................................................. 52 SUSHI ON THE ROCK (Japanese).................................................... 47 WHISKNLADLE (California Cuisine)..................................................... 42 WE OLIVE (Wine Bars).............................................................................. 52
MISSION BAY/BEACHES BO-BEAU (French)...................................................................................... 43 COSTA BRAVA (International)............................................................... 44 ISABEL’S CANTINA (Breakfast)........................................................... 39 JRDN (California Cuisine)............................................................................ 41 THE MISSION (Breakfast)....................................................................... 40 OB WAREHOUSE (International)........................................................ 44 THE PATIO ON LAMONT (California Cuisine).............................. 41 TABLE 926 (California Cuisine)................................................................ 42
HARBOR /SHELTER/POINT LOMA BALI HAI (Eclectic/Fusion)........................................................................ 43 THE BRIGANTINE (Seafood)................................................................ 48 HUMPHREY’S RESTAURANT (Seafood)....................................... 50 ISLAND PRIME (Seafood)....................................................................... 50 JIMMY’S TAVERN (American)............................................................. 38 MIGUEL’S COCINA (Mexican/Southwestern).................................. 48 OLD VENICE (Italian)............................................................................... 46 EAT AT THE PEARL (California Cuisine)............................................ 40 SLATER’S 50/50 (American)................................................................. 38 WINE STEALS (Wine Bars)..................................................................... 52
CORONADO 1500 OCEAN (California Cuisine)......................................................... 40 BLUEWATER BOATHOUSE (Seafood)........................................... 48 THE BRIGANTINE (Seafood)................................................................ 48 CANDELAS (Mexican/Southwestern)................................................... 48
BENCOTTO (Italian)................................................................................. 45 CRAFT & COMMERCE (American).................................................. 38 DAVANTI ENOTECA (Italian)............................................................. 45 EXTRAORDINARY DESSERTS (Desserts)................................... 42 IRONSIDE FISH & OYSTER (Seafood)........................................... 50 INDIGO GRILL (Eclectic/Fusion)........................................................... 43 ISOLA PIZZA BAR (Italian)................................................................... 45 JUNIPER & IVY (California Cuisine)..................................................... 41 KETTNER EXCHANGE (American).................................................. 38 MONELLO (Italian) ................................................................................... 46 PO PAZZO (Italian).................................................................................... 46 PREPKITCHEN (California Cuisine)....................................................... 41 QUEENSTOWN PUBLIC HOUSE (International)...................... 44 SHINO SUSHI + KAPPO (Japanese)............................................... 47 SIRENA (Seafood)........................................................................................ 50 TRATTORIA FANTASTICA (Italian)................................................. 46 UNDERBELLY (Japanese)........................................................................ 47 WINE VAULT & BISTRO (Wine Bars)............................................... 52
IL FORNAIO (Italian)................................................................................ 45
LA JOLLA
MILLE FLEURS (French).......................................................................... 43
AMICI’S EAST COAST PIZZERIA (Italian).................................. 45 BROCKTON VILLA (American)........................................................... 38 CAFÉ JAPENGO (Japanese)................................................................. 46 CAFÉ LA RUE (French)............................................................................ 43 THE COTTAGE (Breakfast).................................................................... 39 CUSP (California Cuisine)............................................................................ 40
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LEROY’S KITCHEN (California Cuisine)............................................. 41 MIGUEL’S COCINA (Mexican/Southwestern).................................. 48 STAKE CHOPHOUSE (Steak)............................................................. 51 VIGILUCCI’S RISTORANTE (Italian)............................................... 46
DEL MAR/RANCHO SANTA FE ADDISON (French)..................................................................................... 43 AGAVE DEL MAR (Mexican/Southwestern)..................................... 47 ARTERRA (California Cuisine).................................................................. 40 THE BRIGANTINE (Seafood)................................................................ 48 CUCINA ENOTECA (Italian)................................................................ 45 DAVANTI ENOTECA (Italian)............................................................. 45 DEL MAR RENDEZVOUS (Chinese)............................................... 42 EN FUEGO (Mexican/Southwestern).................................................... 48 IL FORNAIO (Italian)................................................................................ 45 KITCHEN 1540 (California Cuisine)...................................................... 41 MARKET (California Cuisine).................................................................... 41 MOLA (International).................................................................................. 44
NORTH COASTAL BEACH GRASS CAFÉ (Breakfast)..................................................... 39 BLUEFIRE GRILL (California Cuisine)................................................... 40 BLUE OCEAN ROBATA & SUSHI BAR (Japanese)................ 46 CHART HOUSE (American)................................................................... 38 CRAFTSMAN TAVERN (American)................................................... 38 FISH 101 (Seafood)..................................................................................... 48 THE FISH MARKET (Seafood)............................................................. 50 THE FLYING PIG (California Cuisine).................................................. 40 HARNEY SUSHI (Japanese)................................................................... 47 PACIFIC COAST GRILL (Seafood)..................................................... 50 PAMPLEMOUSSE GRILLE (French)................................................. 44 EL Q’ERO (International).......................................................................... 44 SOLACE (American)................................................................................... 38 TRATTORIA I TRULLI (Italian)............................................................. 46 UNION KITCHEN & TAP (American).............................................. 39 VIGILUCCI’S SEAFOOD & CHOP HOUSE (Steak).............. 51 VIGILUCCI’S RISTORANTE (Italian)............................................... 46 VIVACE (Italian)........................................................................................... 46 WINE STEALS (Wine Bars)..................................................................... 52 ZENBU (Japanese)....................................................................................... 47
HILLCREST/NORTH PARK/ MISSION HILLS/SOUTH PARK 100 WINES (French).................................................................................. 43 ALEXANDER’S (Italian) ......................................................................... 45 ARRIVEDERCI (Italian)............................................................................ 45 AZUKI SUSHI (Japanese) . ...................................................................... 46 BANKERS HILL (American).................................................................... 38 BERTRAND AT MR. A’S (American)................................................ 38 BLEU BOHEME (French) ....................................................................... 43 BROOKLYN GIRL (American)............................................................... 38 BUONA FORCHETTA (Italian)........................................................... 45 CUCINA URBANA (Italian).................................................................. 45 D BAR SAN DIEGO (Desserts)........................................................... 42 ECLIPSE (American).................................................................................... 38 EXTRAORDINARY DESSERTS (Desserts)................................... 42 GREAT MAPLE (California Cuisine)...................................................... 40 HASH HOUSE A GO GO (Breakfast)............................................. 39 JAYNE’S GASTROPUB (California Cuisine).................................... 41 LOTUS THAI (Thai)................................................................................... 51 THE MISSION (Breakfast)....................................................................... 40 PLUMERIA (Thai)....................................................................................... 51 THE PATIO ON GOLDFINCH (California Cuisine)...................... 41 THE PRADO (International).................................................................... 44 THE ROSE WINE PUB (Wine Bars)................................................... 52 SAFFRON (Thai)......................................................................................... 52 THE SMOKING GOAT (French) . ...................................................... 44 SNOOZE (Breakfast).................................................................................. 40 SOLTAN BANOO (International) ........................................................ 44 STARLITE (California Cuisine) .................................................................. 41 STATION TAVERN (American)............................................................. 39 TASTE OF THAI (Thai)............................................................................ 52 TRACTOR ROOM (American).............................................................. 39 UNDERBELLY (Japanese)........................................................................ 47 URBAN SOLACE (American)................................................................ 39 THE WELLINGTON (Steak)................................................................. 51 WAYPOINT PUBLIC (California Cuisine)........................................... 42 THE WINE LOVER (Wine Bars)........................................................... 52 WINE STEALS (Wine Bars)..................................................................... 52
OLD TOWN EL AGAVE (Mexican/Southwestern)...................................................... 47 BERTA’S LATIN AMERICAN (International).................................. 44 CAFÉ COYOTE (Mexican/Southwestern).......................................... 47 HARNEY SUSHI (Japanese)................................................................... 47 JACK & GIULIO’S (Italian).................................................................... 46 MIGUEL’S COCINA (Mexican)............................................................. 48 OLD TOWN MEXICAN CAFÉ (Mexican)..................................... 48
PACIFICA DEL MAR (Seafood)........................................................... 50
MISSION VALLEY/KEARNY MESA
POSEIDON (Seafood)............................................................................... 50
DUMPLING INN (Chinese).................................................................... 42 BLUE SMOKE SUSHI LOUNGE (Japanese)................................ 46 JASMINE SEAFOOD (Chinese).......................................................... 42 STACKED (American)................................................................................ 39
SEA & SMOKE (American).................................................................... 38 SEARSUCKER (American)....................................................................... 38 SNOOZE (Breakfast).................................................................................. 40
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SDDINING WE OLIVE AND WINE BAR Pretty much everything about We Olive is good enough to eat. An olive oil tasting room and much more, the epicurean specialty market overlooking La Jolla Cove features a coastal-view wine bar with a well-curated selection of California wines and artisanal dishes. Make a meal out of the smoked albacore melt, served on toasted rosemary focaccia; the black olive and blood orange hummus platter, served with veggies and pita chips; and the prosciutto flatbread topped with a Parmesan-Asiago spread and arugula—among many other savory delights. Happy hour is also prime time to visit, with discounted wines by the glass, craft beer, cheese plates and gourmet bites. And the best part: many menu ingredients are available for purchase in the retail store. L, D (daily). 1158 Prospect St., La Jolla 858.551.8250 • weolive.com/la-jolla
ROPPONGI RESTAURANT & SUSHI BAR La Jolla’s celebrated culinary staple is a favorite among both locals and visitors—hailed for its inventive New Asian cuisine infused with modern flavors and Old European techniques—as well as its world-class wine list, stylish yet relaxed ambiance, and San Diego’s best happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m. daily. The menu shines with a variety of Pacific Rim-style tapas (we love the lamb kofta skewers and miso-glazed Japanese eggplant); entrées such as seared scallops and Jidori chicken; plus exceptional sushi, sashimi and creative specialty rolls. Save room for the salted caramel pudding with peanut brittle and whipped cream for dessert, and wash it all down with a namesake cocktail such as the gin-based Roppongi Sling. D (nightly). 875 Prospect St., La Jolla 858.551.5252 • roppongiusa.com
CAFÉ LA RUE Café la Rue Bistro & Bar consists of the most delicious menage a trois: friends, food & wine. Experience hand-crafted cocktails, premium libations and modern European cuisine crafted by Executive Chef James Montejano. Inspired by the art of hotel legend Wing Howard, this people-watching cafe—with terrazzo floors, Venetian plaster ceilings, glass-enclosed wine vault and large bar is—graced by paintings of the room’s original 1947 inception. Not to miss is Café la Rue’s signature happy hour, every day from 4 to 7 p.m. Café la Rue opens daily at 6 a.m. for breakfast and all day dining at 11 a.m. B, L, D (daily).
1132 Prospect St., La Jolla 858.454.0771 • lavalencia.com
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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Entertainment Festivals + Special Events
Guidelines
JULIAN FALL APPLE HARVEST Sept.-Oct. Enjoy autumn foliage, art, entertainment and seasonal foods, such as apple cider and pie. Special events on weekends, including the Julian Grape Stomp Festa on Sept. 5. Julian, 760.765.1857. Map C6
Index
Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps on pages 68-71. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.
Festivals ................................55 Museums.............................62
CORONADO ART WALK Sept. 12-13. Open-air arts festival features dozens of artists; plus hands-on art activities, live music and dining options. Coronado Ferry Landing, 1201 First St., coronadoartwalk.org. Map L11
Special Events..........................55 Destination Shopping......63 Theater..................................58 Nightlife............................... 64 Music + Dance.................. 60 Tours + Transport..............66 Attractions............................61
SAN DIEGO FESTIVAL OF BEER Sept. 18. The 21st annual festival features live music and samples from nearly 60 different microbreweries. The Port Pavilion on Broadway Pier, 1000 N. Harbor Drive, downtown, sdbeerfest.org. Map Q15 KAABOO Sept. 18-20. Three-day “experiential” festival features live music, comedy, food, wine and art. Catch headliners No Doubt, The Killers and Zac Brown Band, and 100-plus acts on seven stages, including Snoop Dogg and Sheryl Crow. Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar, kaaboodelmar.com. Map X22 SAN DIEGO BAYFAIR Sept. 18-20. Crowds flock to Ski Beach to catch the World Series of Power Boat Racing, featuring intense water competition and the fastest powerboats in the world. Course runs between Crown Point and Fiesta Island, Mission Bay, 760.789.8870. Map I9 SAN DIEGO RESTAURANT WEEK Sept. 20-27. Enjoy fabulous dining for less when nearly 200 restaurants throughout the county offer fixed-price, three-course meals. Visit website for participating restaurants. sandiegorestaurantweek.com. HAUNTED HOTEL Sept. 25-26; Oct. 1-Oct. 18 (closed M-Tu); Oct. 21-31 (open nightly). Not for the faint of heart, this spooky maze will have everyone screaming. 424 Market St., Gaslamp, 619.696.7227. Map Q16 SCREAM ZONE Sept. 25-26, Oct. 2-4, 8-11 and 15-18; Oct. 21-Nov. 1. Eerie attractions include the Haunted Hayride, Zombie Paintball Safari and the House of Horror. Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar, 858.755.1161. Map X22 HAUNTED TRAIL Sept. 25-26; Oct. 1-18 (closed M-Tu); Oct. 21-31 (open nightly). No ordinary walk in the park, this mile-long scary trail features spine-tingling and shriekinducing sights (not suitable for kids under 10), as well as an additional terrifying maze called The Experiment. Balboa Park, 619.696.7227. Map O17 PACIFIC ISLANDER FESTIVAL Sept. 26-27. The 21st annual event celebrates the food, art and culture of Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia. Ski Beach, Mission Bay, 619.699.8797. Map I8 ADAMS AVENUE STREET FAIR Sept. 26-27. The 34th annual event, one of SoCal’s largest free music festivals, features more than 100 musical acts on eight stages, plus carnival rides, beer gardens, craft and food vendors, and more. Adams Ave. between 32nd and 35th streets, Normal Heights, 619.282.7329. Map I12
SAN DIEGO FILM FESTIVAL Sept. 30-Oct. 4. Fiveday bonanza showcases more than 100 independent feature films, documentaries and shorts from around the world. Plus filmmaker meet-and-greets, industry panels, film premieres, celebrity appearances and exclusive V.I.P. events. Reading Cinemas Gaslamp 15, 701 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, Map Q16; ArcLight Cinemas, 4425 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla, sdfilmfest.com. Map T21 FASHION WEEK SAN DIEGO Oct. 1-4. Showcasing local and national designers, this fashion-forward event features art and beauty forums, after-parties, runway shows, a trunk show, awards ceremony and live entertainment. La Valencia Hotel, 1132 Prospect St., La Jolla, fashionweeksd.com. Map W19 OKTOBERFEST LA MESA Oct. 2-4. About 200,000 revelers will attend this annual Oktoberfest, the largest of its kind west of the Mississippi. More than 300 vendors, plus beer gardens, food courts and a kiddie carnival fill 10 city blocks. La Mesa Blvd., between Acacia and Fourth avenues, La Mesa, 619.465.7700. Map E3 OCEAN BEACH OKTOBERFEST Oct. 9-10. Live bands, bratwurst-eating and stein-holding contests, a sausage toss and more on O.B.’s Newport Avenue. Ocean Beach, 619.224.4906. Map J8 LA JOLLA ART & WINE FESTIVAL Oct. 10-11. The annual juried art show benefits arts and physical education programs at local schools. Take in works by 150 artists, plus live entertainment, a silent auction, gourmet marketplace and beer and wine garden. Girard Ave., between Prospect Ave. and Torrey Pines St., ljawf.com. Map W19 LITTLE ITALY FESTA Oct. 11. Celebrate Italian heritage and cuisine at the largest Italian-American festival on the West Coast. Festivities include cooking demos, three stages of live entertainment, a Kids Fun Zone and more. India St., between Ash and Grape streets, Little Italy, 619.615.1092. Map P15 DEL MAR RACING Oct. 29-Nov. 29. The fall “Bing Meet” features thoroughbred racing four days a week (dark M-W). Post time is 12:30 p.m. (11 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day). Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar, 858.755.1141. Map X22 MONSTER BASH Oct. 31. The annual festive street party features live bands, DJs and a costume contest. 21+. Gaslamp, 619.233.5008. Map Q16
OCEANSIDE HARBOR DAYS Sept. 26-27. Sun, sand, surf and activities, from a sandcastle competition to boatbuilding contests, are all included at this family-friendly festival. Oceanside Harbor, 760.722.1534. Map S22
CARLSBAD VILLAGE FAIRE Nov. 1. Street fair features more than 900 vendors with international food, art and live entertainment. Grand Ave., between Carlsbad Blvd. and Jefferson St., Carlsbad, 760.945.9288. Map T22
CABRILLO FESTIVAL Sept. 26-27. Special events commemorate Juan Cabrillo’s monumental exploration of the West Coast in 1542 at this 52nd annual festival. Cabrillo National Monument (Sept. 26), Naval Base Point Loma (Sept. 27), Point Loma, 619.225.8909, cabrillofestival.org. Map L8
OLD TOWN DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS (DAY OF THE DEAD) Nov. 1-2. Tour more than 40 traditional altars set up in museums and shops, enjoy art-making activities and participate in a candlelight procession to the cemetery (night of Nov. 2) at this colorful celebration honoring those who have died. Old Town, 619.297.9327. Map M13
Brewpub Grub
Consider Quad AleHouse a craft beer sanctuary. Located above the Gaslamp Tavern, the 5,000-square-foot, loft-style brewpub houses a 50-foot bar, custom-made communal tables and comfy cushioned stools. Named by the Lost Abbey’s Tomme Arthur to symbolize the educational gathering space it provides—as well as a nod to two recognizable beer styles, the Belgian Quad and Quadruple IPA— Quad offers a rotating selection of 28 craft beers on tap, including one nitro, curated by local beer expert Beau Schmitt. The cocktail program includes 50 different whiskeys and 12 signature drinks. In between imbibing, fuel up on upscale pub grub that includes sandwiches and mac ‘n’ cheese. 868 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.239.3339
Looking for a refreshing dose of live music? Humphreys Concerts by the Bay showcases an exceptional lineup of musicians of diverse genres this fall season. p. 60
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Entertainment SAN DIEGO ASIAN FILM FESTIVAL Nov. 5-14. The 16th annual event includes feature films, shorts and animation from Asian artists worldwide. Various venues, including UltraStar Cinemas Mission Valley, 7519 Hazard Center Drive, Mission Valley, 619.400.5911. Map M18
Their world awaits... At La Jolla’s renowned Birch Aquarium.
SAN DIEGO BEER WEEK Nov. 6-15. Celebrate the art of craft beers during this annual event, featuring more than 50 local breweries and a lineup of tastings, festivals, brewery tours, cheese pairings and beer dinners. Various locations. sdbw.org. SAN DIEGO MUSIC THING Nov. 11-14. The annual music and media conference features panel discussions, workshops and mentoring sessions all focused on the music business. Plus, live performances by more than 150 local and national bands. Various locations. sandiegomusicthing.com. SAN DIEGO BAY WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL Nov. 15-22. SoCal’s largest wine and culinary event celebrates its 12th anniversary with a palate-pleasing array of festivities—including the Grand Tasting event, wine-tasting seminars and dinners, cooking classes and celebrity chefs galore. Embarcadero Marina Park North, downtown, sandiegowineclassic.com. Map R15 MOTHER GOOSE PARADE Nov. 21. The 69th annual parade offers free family fun to start the holiday season. Route begins on Main St. and Magnolia Ave., El Cajon, mgpelcajon.com. Map E4 SAN DIEGO JAZZ FESTIVAL Nov. 25-29. The 36th annual event features live performances by international artists representing a wide variety of traditional jazz, Dixieland, ragtime, swing and rockabilly styles. Town and Country Resort & Convention Center, 500 Hotel Circle North, Mission Valley, sdjazzfest.org. Map M15
aquarium.ucsd.edu
Theater AMAZONS AND THEIR MEN Sept. 3-Oct. 4. Art and war collide in this darkly comic and subversive new play inspired by the life of German filmmaker Leni Riefenstahl, who came to fame during Hitler’s Nazi regime. Diversionary Theatre, 4545 Park Blvd. #101, University Heights, 619.220.0097. Map M18 BLUEPRINTS TO FREEDOM: AN ODE TO BAYARD RUSTIN Sept. 8-Oct. 4. In the sweltering political and racial heat of 1963, Bayard Rustin—proponent of nonviolent civil disobedience—is assigned to orchestrate an unprecedented march for jobs and freedom. Potiker Theatre at the La Jolla Playhouse, 2910 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla, 858.550.1010. Map T20 THE FOX ON THE FAIRWAY Sept. 9-Oct. 4. This comedy set at a country club scores a hole-in-one with non-stop laughs as its quirky cast of characters get into shenanigans. North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987-D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach, 858.481.1055. Map X22 VIOLET Through Sept. 13. This modern fairy tale musical is filled with show-stopping 1960s anthems of the American South, including country, bluegrass, gospel and blues. San Diego Rep, Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza, downtown, 619.544.1000. Map Q16 IN YOUR ARMS Sept. 16-Oct. 25. This world-premiere dance-theater musical jumps between eras and cultures, and tells its love stories through dance, from classical ballet to swing to tap to ballroom to jazz to flamenco and more. Shiley Stage at The Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, 619. 234.5623. Map O17 HAY FEVER Sept. 23-Nov. 8. Set in an English country house in the 1920s, Noël Coward’s hilarious comedy of bad manners has been a favorite among theatergoers ever since its 1925 premiere in London. Cygnet Theatre in Old Town, 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town, 619.337.1525. Map M13
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Entertainment THE VORTEX Sept. 24-Nov. 8. Noël Coward’s first commercially successful hit, which premiered in 1924, and its scandalous subject matter of drug abuse, repressed homosexuality, nymphomania and Oedipal jealousy made Coward an overnight sensation. Cygnet Theatre in Old Town, 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town, 619.337.1525. Map M13 FULL GALLOP Sept. 26-Oct. 25. A witty one-woman tour de force about the fabulous style icon, Diana Vreeland, who forever changed the way Americans experience clothing, art and life. White Theatre at The Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, 619.234.5623. Map O17 HEALING WARS Sept. 29-Oct. 25. A multisensory experience that blends dance, storytelling and multimedia in an exploration of how soldiers and healers cope with the physical and psychological wounds of war. Mandell Weiss Forum at the La Jolla Playhouse, 2910 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla, 858.550.1010. Map T20 MY MAÑANA COMES Oct. 1-25. Four busboys working in a New York restaurant struggle to make ends meet in this humorous and haunting story about sacrifice and survival in pursuit of the American Dream. San Diego Rep, Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza, downtown, 619.544.1000. Map Q16
WELCOME TO KOALAFORNIA THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK.
THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA Oct. 7-18. Cameron Mackintosh’s spectacular new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s classic musical has been hailed by critics as “bigger and better than ever before,” featuring new special effects, scenic and lighting designs, and staging and choreography. Broadway/San Diego, Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100. Map Q16
sandiegozoo.org/koalafornia
THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ Oct. 9-Nov. 15. Based on L. Frank Baum’s classic tale, this new adaptation illuminates the book’s darker corners and brings to light its romance, humor and adventure with a thrilling 4/17/15 8:45 AM new score. Lamb’s Players Theatre, 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.6000. Map L10
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CHAPATTI Oct. 21-Nov. 15. Two lonely animal-lovers in Dublin cross paths, and develop an unexpected spark in this heartwarming second-chance romantic comedy. North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987-D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach, 858.481.1055. Map X22 BRIGHT HALF LIFE Oct. 29-Nov. 29. Vicky and Erica’s relationship is revealed through snapshot scenes ricocheting back and forth over a 40-year period in this dynamic exploration of what comprises a life with another person. Diversionary Theatre, 4545 Park Blvd. #101, University Heights, 619.220.0097. Map M18 rg
ANNIE Nov. 3-8. This new production of the beloved musical features such unforgettable songs as “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” “I Don’t Need Anything But You” and “Tomorrow.” Broadway/San Diego, Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100. Map Q16 DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! Nov. 7-Dec. 26. For spirited kids young and old, experience this annual holiday production of a Dr. Seuss classic. Shiley Stage at the Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, 619.234.5623. Map O17 THE OLDEST BOY Nov. 12-Dec. 6. Two parents decide whether their 3-year-old son—believed to be the reincarnation of a high Buddhist teacher— should move to India to train as a Buddhist master in this meditation on love and letting go. San Diego Rep, Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza, downtown, 619.544.1000. Map Q16 INDECENT Nov. 13-Dec. 10. A world-premiere play with music inspired by the true events surrounding the controversial 1922 Broadway debut of God of Vengeance. Mandell Weiss Theatre at the La Jolla Playhouse, 2910 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla, 858.550.1010. Map T20
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Entertainment DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Nov. 24-29. The smash hit Broadway musical based on the Academy Award-winning animated film features dazzling production numbers, including “Be Our Guest” and the beloved title song. Broadway/San Diego, Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100. Map Q16
Music + Dance + Performances ARTPOWER AT UC SAN DIEGO Music, dance, art and film series at UC San Diego. Sept. 25: Irvine Arditti & Roger Reynolds (music); Oct. 9-11: Greg Wohead: Hurtling and The Backseat of My Car (and other safe places) (performance); Oct. 9: Los Hamsters (film); Oct. 14: Huang Yi & KUKA (dance); Oct. 22: La Santa Cecilia (music); Oct. 23: Alfredo Rodriguez Trio (jazz); Oct. 27: Bang on a Can All-Stars performs Brian Eno’s Music for Airports (music); Nov. 13: Cuarteto Quiroga (chamber); Nov. 22: David Sedaris; Dec. 4: Kendrick Scott Oracle (jazz). Various locations on and off UC San Diego campus. artpwr.com. BALBOA THEATRE Sept. 9: John Hiatt & The Combo, The Taj Mahal Trio; Sept. 18: Chris Cornell; Sept. 19: Rene Barbera in recital; Sept. 24: Donny Osmond; Sept. 26: Patton Oswalt; Oct. 2: Jim Jefferies; Oct. 13: The Tenors; Oct. 16: Joe Rogan; Oct. 17: Zoltan Maga; Oct. 22: Margaret Cho; Oct. 23: Home Free; Oct. 24: VeggieTales Live; Nov. 3: Welcome to Night Vale; Nov. 14: Patricia Racette: Diva on Detour. 868 Fourth Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100. Map Q16 CALIFORNIA CENTER FOR THE ARTS Sept. 2: Henkel, Watson & Shay; Sept. 4, 11, 18, 25: Música en la Plaza; Sept. 12: Bollywood and Beyond; Sept. 23: San Francisco Comedy Competition: Semi-Final Round; Sept. 24: Storm Large & Le Bonheur: Songs of Seduction and Obsession; Sept. 27: Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat; Sept. 29: The Time Jumpers w/ Vince Gill, Kenny Sears and Ranger Doug Green; Oct. 7: Sister Speak; Oct. 17: Cheyenne Jackson: Music of the Mad Men Era; Oct. 22: Shaping Sound; Oct. 24: Momix: Alchemia; Oct. 25: Brass Roots Trio; Nov. 1: Día de los Muertos Festival; Nov. 3: San Diego Ballet “Hailstones and Halibut Bones”; Nov. 4: Combo Libertad; Nov. 21, 27, 29: Carmen by George Bizet; Nov. 22: Neave Trio. 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido, 800.988.4253. Map B3 CIVIC THEATRE Sept. 26: The Wild Kratts Live!; Oct. 23-25: California Ballet Company presents Septime Webres’ The Great Gatsby. 1100 Third Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100. Map Q16 HUMPHREYS CONCERTS BY THE BAY Sept. 6: The Gipsy Kings; Sept. 11: Paula Poundstone; Sept. 13: ZZ Top; Sept. 20: The Beach Boys; Sept. 21: Mark Knopfler (sold out); Sept. 25: Dave Koz, Rick Braun; Sept. 26: Air Supply; Sept. 30: Chicago; Oct. 2: Tower of Power; Oct. 3: Gordon Lightfoot; Oct. 4: The Mavericks; Oct. 6: Garbage; Oct. 7: Dark Star Orchestra; Oct. 9: Jesse Cook; Oct. 11: UB40; Oct. 16: America; Oct. 17: Joan Armatrading; Oct. 22: Creative Collab Tour feat. Matthew Espinosa; Oct. 25: J Balvin; Oct. 31: Jake Shimabukuro. 2241 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.224.3577. Map K9 LA JOLLA SYMPHONY AND CHORUS Sept. 27: Sila: The Breath of the World (free performance at the Japanese Friendship Garden in Balboa Park); Oct. 30: Young People’s Concert (reservations required); Oct. 31-Nov. 1: Steven Schick conducts Edgard Varèse’s Tuning Up; Johannes Brahms’ Piano Concerto No. 1, feat. guest artist Aleck Karis (piano); and John Luther Adams’ Become Ocean. Mandeville Auditorium, UC San Diego, La Jolla, 858.534.4637. Map T20 OPEN AIR THEATRE AT SDSU Sept. 11: Brian Regan; Sept. 18: Montys; Sept. 22: Damian Marley; Sept. 25: Death Cab for Cutie; Sept. 27: Duran Duran; Oct. 6: Beirut; Oct. 13: Alt-J; Oct. 15: Hozier; Oct. 16: Twenty One Pilots; Oct. 17: Of Monsters and Men; Oct. 19: My Morning Jacket. 5500 Campanile Drive, SDSU, 619.594.0429. Map E3
The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD) gives you access to the very best art of our time in two iconic locations. Enjoy world-class exhibitions, compelling public programs, and works by promising emerging talent alongside major figures in international contemporary art.
LA JOLLA 700 Prospect St. La Jolla, CA 92037
Admission tickets are valid at both locations for 7 days.
HOURS: 11 AM–5 PM daily Closed Wednesday
free for 25 AnD unDer
858 454 3541 www.mcasd.org
DOWNTOWN 1100 Kettner Blvd. San Diego, CA 92101
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SAN DIEGO’S PREMIER OCEAN ADVENTURE OUTFITTER & BIKE TOURS SINCE 1995 CALL TODAY OR GO ONLINE TO BOOK THE BEST PRICES AVAILABLE! • FUN FOR ALL AGES
Attractions + Museums SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY Sept. 4-6: 1812 Tchaikovsky Spectacular; Sept. 27: Direct from Beijing: The National Circus and Acrobats of the People’s Republic of China; Oct. 9 &11: Opening Weekend w/ Jahja Ling and Yuja Wang (piano); Oct. 18: Bollywood Masala Orchestra and Dancers of India; Oct. 23-25: Beethoven and John Adams; Oct. 30-31: Disney in Concert: Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas feat. The Music of Danny Elfman; Nov. 6-8: Tchaikovsky’s Pathétique w/ Sarah Chang (violin); Nov. 13: E.T. The Extraterrestrial (film screening w/ live orchestra); Nov. 15: Compañia Flamenca José Porcel; Nov. 20 & 22: Dance Rhythms: Music of Mexico, Argentina, Spain. Check sandiegosymphony.org for venues. Copley Symphony Hall, 750 B St., downtown, 619.235.0804. Map Q14
AT LA JOLLA KAYAK WE CAN HANDLE ALL OF YOUR ADVENTURE NEEDS, FROM SNORKELING, KAYAK OR BIKE TOURS AND RENTALS. FROM THE BEGINNER TO THE EXPERIENCED WE HAVE THE STAFF TO MAKE YOUR DAY GREAT, RIGHT FROM THE START.
SLEEP TRAIN AMPHITHEATRE Sept. 9: Ariana Grande; Sept. 17: Chris Brown; Sept. 22: Def Leppard; Sept. 24: Foo Fighters; Sept. 30: Van Halen; Oct. 3: Florida Georgia Line; Oct. 9: Oddball Comedy Fest starring Aziz Ansari w/ special guest Amy Schumer; Oct. 16: Luke Bryan. 2050 Entertainment Circle, Chula Vista, 619.671.3500. Map F4 VALLEY VIEW CASINO CENTER (formerly San Diego Sports Arena) Sept. 11: Disney Live: Three Classic Fairytales; Sept. 14: The Who; Sept. 15: Zedd; Oct. 1-4: Disney on Ice: Dare to Dream; Oct. 9: Gabriel Iglesias; Oct. 17: Lakers vs. Golden State Warriors; Oct. 29: Madonna. 3500 Sports Arena Blvd., Midway, 619.594.0429. Map J9 VIEJAS ARENA AT SDSU Sept. 13: Chayanne; Sept. 19: Kevin Hart; Sept. 20: Ricky Martin; Oct. 14: Florence and the Machine; Oct. 17: Janet Jackson; Nov. 8: Miguel Bose. 5500 Canyon Crest Drive, SDSU, 619.594.0429. Map E3
Attractions BELMONT PARK A beachfront landmark with attractions, rides, arcades and dining. Highlights include the historical Giant Dipper roller coaster, WaveHouse, SoCal’s largest indoor pool, Liberty Carousel and several casual eateries, bars and food booths. 3146 Mission Blvd., Mission Beach, 858.228.9283. Map I8 BIRCH AQUARIUM AT SCRIPPS Explore one of the nation’s largest oceanographic museums, and enjoy a spectacular view from the tidepool plaza. Daily 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Three-hour courtesy parking. $11-17. 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, 858.534.3474. Map U20
The Original Tour of the Seven Caves
(858) 459-1114 • www.LaJollaKayak.com • 2199 Avenida De La Playa at La Jolla Shores
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CABRILLO NATIONAL MONUMENT The monument commemorates the landing of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo at S.D. Bay on Sept. 28, 1542. Nearby: whale-watching, tidepools, trails, the Old Point Loma Lighthouse and stunning city/ocean views. Daily 9 a.m.–5 p.m. $3-5. 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Drive, Point Loma, 619.557.5450. Map L8
LEGOLAND Find 50-plus rides and shows, and Sea Life Aquarium’s 7-foot-long Lego submarine. Check out the new waterpark complete with a lazy river (open seasonally). Adults $80; kids 3–12 and seniors 60+ $70 (add $13/ ticket for admission to aquarium or water park; add $19/ 7/16/15 9:12 AM for admission to all three). Aquarium-only: adults ticket $20; kids 3-12 $15. Parking $12–20. Call for hours. 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, 760.918.5346. Map U22
Special Events Sunset Sails Whale Watching Yacht Memberships
SAFARI PARK (formerly the Wild Animal Park). Take a safari adventure through the 1,800–acre wildlife preserve, home to herds of exotic animals roaming in vast enclosures resembling African and Asian plains. Safari packages start at $48 for adults; children 3–11 $32; kids 2 and under free. Parking $10. Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, 760.747.8702. Map C3
SanDiegoLuxurySailing.com
SAN DIEGO BOTANIC GARDEN One of the world’s most diverse plant collections with 37 acres of lush gardens and trails. Daily 9 a.m.–5 p.m. (till 8 p.m. Th). Adults $14, with discounts for seniors, kids, military and students. Parking $2. 230 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas, 760.436.3036. Map V22
404.441.9414
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Attractions + Museums
Easy come, easier go.
SAN DIEGO ZOO The world-famous zoo has more than 4,000 rare and endangered animals in a charming, state–of–the–art park. Its inclined walking trails are a workout. $48; kids 3–11 $32; kids 2 and under free. Free parking. Open daily 9 a.m.-9 p.m. 2920 Zoo Drive, Balboa Park, 619.231.1515. Map O17 SEAWORLD The 189-acre adventure park features thousands of marine animals including killer whales plus fish, reptiles and birds. $89; kids 3–9 $83; kids 2 and under free. Parking: $14-19. Open daily; call for hours and combo rates. 500 Sea World Drive, Mission Bay Park, 800.25.SHAMU. Map I8
We’re conveniently located right around the corner from your hotel. To make it even easier, we’ll pick you up.
Museums
To make a reservation, call (888)484-Hotel(4683) or visit enterprise.com/hotelguests2.
CALIFORNIA SURF MUSEUM Collection of surfing artifacts and memorabilia, plus exhibits about surfing legends. Rare surfing collectibles in museum gift shop. Daily 10 a.m. -4 p.m., Th 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Adults $5; seniors/military/ students $3; kids 12 and under free. 312 Pier View Way, Oceanside, 760.721.6876. Map S22 CORONADO MUSEUM OF HISTORY AND ART Galleries of historical memorabilia reveal Coronado’s rich past and interesting fun facts. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (daily). Suggested donation $2–4. 1100 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.7242. Map L10 MARSTON HOUSE Craftsman-style house designed by renowned architects William Hebbard and Irving Gill in 1905. Period furnishings, pottery and an Indian basketry collection. Open for tours F-M 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Adults $10; kids 6-12 $4; kids 5 and under free. 3525 Seventh Ave., Balboa Park, 619.297.9327. Map O16 MARITIME MUSEUM Visit the 1863 barque Star of India (world’s oldest active ship), the 1898 steam ferryboat Berkeley, the 1904 steam yacht Medea, a Soviet-era submarine and the HMS Surprise, the Royal Navy frigate featured in the film Master and Commander. Daily 9 a.m.–8 p.m. $15; seniors/military/teens $11; kids 6-12 $8; kids 5 and under free. The schooner Californian also offers half-day sailing trips ($31-42). 1492 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.234.9153. Map P15
Pick-up subject to geographic and other restrictions. ©2015 Enterprise Rent-A-Car F07585 07.15
SELECTED AS “BEST GALLERY IN CALIFORNIA”
MINGEI INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM Exhibits celebrate folk art from around the world. Tu–Su 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $5–8; children 5 and under free. 1439 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.0003. Map O17 MISSION SAN DIEGO DE ALCALÁ The first of 21 m issions stretching north along the California coast, this one was established by Father Junípero Serra in 1769 on Presidio Hill and moved to this site in 1774. Adults $3; kids/seniors $2. 10818 San Diego Mission Road, Mission Valley, 619.281.8449. Map I12
Voted La Jolla’s Best Gallery
MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART SAN DIEGO Museum features post-1950s art spanning many genres and media, with cutting-edge exhibits at each campus that change regularly. Th-Tu 11 a.m.-5 p.m. $5-10 admission valid for seven days; ages 25 and under free; free third Th 5-7 p.m. 700 Prospect St., La Jolla, Map W19; 1001 and 1100 Kettner Blvd., downtown, 858.454.3541. Map Q15 MUSEUM OF MAKING MUSIC Explore vintage instruments and interactive audio and visual exhibits that offer a dynamic look into the history of American popular music. A family-friendly experience ideal for all ages. Tu–Su 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $5–8; kids 5 and under free. 5790 Armada Drive, Carlsbad, 760.438.5996. Map U23 MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS Collection includes contemporary photography, social documentary and photojournalism. Regularly rotating exhibits of exceptional landscape, portrait and interactive photography. Film screenings, too. Tu-Su 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $5–8; kids 12 and under free. Free second Tu. for S.D. residents. 1649 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.238.7559. Map O17
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7946 Ivanhoe Avenue, La Jolla, CA 858-551-2010 • cfasd@connectnet.com www.contemporaryfineartsgallery.com
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Shopping NEW CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Downtown’s stunning, super-mod museum, designed just for kids, encourages visitors to touch and interact with exhibits. M-Sa (closed Tu) 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; Su noon-4 p.m. $10; seniors/military $5; children under 1 free. Free second Su. 200 W. Island Ave., downtown, 619.233.8792. Map Q16 OCEANSIDE MUSEUM OF ART Regional and international artists showcased in exhibits ranging from landscape painting to studio furniture, neon sculpture, art quilts and architectural glass. Tu–Sa 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Su 1-4 p.m. $5–8 (students and military are free). 704 Pier View Way, Oceanside, 760.435.3720. Map S22
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REUBEN H. FLEET SCIENCE CENTER Interactive science galleries invite visitors to explore the wonders of astronomy, the earth and physics. Giant-screen films run in the IMAX Dome Theater. M-Th 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (open later during holiday breaks); F-Su 10 a.m.-6 p.m. $14.9517.95; kids 3 and under free. 1875 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.238.1233. Map O17 SAN DIEGO AIR & SPACE MUSEUM Spacecraft, jets and historical aircraft; plus special exhibits. Daily 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $9-18. 2001 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park, 619.234.8291. Map P17 SAN DIEGO MUSEUM OF ART Diverse collection includes Italian Renaissance and Spanish Baroque works, 19th–20th-century American and European paintings and sculptures, and a vast Asian collection. M–Sa 10 a.m–5 p.m. (closed W), Su noon-5 p.m. $4.50–12; kids 6 and under free. 1450 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.7931. Map O17 SAN DIEGO MUSEUM OF MAN Go on a journey of the human experience highlighting our physical and cultural development through permanent and changing exhibits. Daily 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; $5–12.50; children 2 and under free. 1350 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.2001. Map O17 SAN DIEGO NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Dinosaur displays, giant-screen films, photography exhibitions and more. Daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $11–17; children 2 and under free; free for active military first Tu. 1788 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.3821. Map O17 STUART COLLECTION OF SCULPTURES Scattered across the UC San Diego campus, outdoor art collection includes talking and singing trees, a “Sun God” and more. Free. Gilman and La Jolla Village drives, La Jolla, 858.534.2230. Map T20 USS MIDWAY Now a retired aircraft carrier, the world’s largest floating naval-aviation museum has restored airplanes on the flight deck and interactive exhibits inside; plus military veterans on board giving personal tours and answering questions. Daily 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $10–18; military/kids 5 and under free. 910 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.544.9600. Map Q14
Destination Shopping CARLSBAD PREMIUM OUTLETS Shop 90 outlet stores (including Barneys New York, Polo Ralph Lauren and Banana Republic) in a pleasant outdoor setting. 5620 Paseo del Norte, Carlsbad, 760.804.9000. Map U22 DEL MAR HIGHLANDS TOWN CENTER This exclusive pocket of dining, shopping and entertainment comprises around 75 stylish shops and restaurants; plus a Cinepolis luxury movie theater. 12925 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.793.5757. Map X22 DEL MAR PLAZA With more than 20 shops and eight restaurants, this gorgeous tri-level boutique shopping plaza overlooks the Pacific Ocean in the heart of Del Mar. 1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.1555. Map X22
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Nightlife DUTY FREE CITY Located along the U.S.-Mexico border, this 14,000-square-foot space offers sophisticated, dutyfree shopping: luxury accessories, beauty products, leather goods, confectionary, wine, spirits and tobacco. 601 E. San Ysidro Blvd., San Ysidro, 619.621.2600. Map F3 FASHION VALLEY The largest mall in San Diego, this beautiful bi-level, outdoor mall includes 200-plus shops, five department stores, restaurants, a food court and an 18-screen movie theater. 7007 Friars Road, Mission Valley, 619.688.9113. Map J10 FLOWER HILL PROMENADE Del Mar’s continually expanding, upscale lifestyle center is home to refined restaurants (including Sea & Smoke and Cucina Enoteca) and dozens of high-end specialty boutiques. 2720 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.481.7131. Map X22 THE FORUM CARLSBAD Elegant, tree-lined outdoor center with dozens of shops and restaurants, including Anthropologie and Sur La Table. 1905 Calle Barcelona, Carlsbad, 760.479.0166. Map U23 THE HEADQUARTERS AT SEAPORT DISTRICT Openair center in a historical setting is home to specialty shops, designer boutiques and restaurants, including several not found anywhere else in San Diego. 789 W. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.235.4014. Map K11 LAS AMERICAS PREMIUM OUTLETS Spanish Colonial-style outlet mall has 125-plus shops. 4211 Camino de la Plaza, San Ysidro, 619.934.8400. Map F3
A UNIQUE SAN DIEGO EXPERIENCE Sunset Dinner Cruises, Champagne Brunch Cruises, Sights & Sips Cocktail Cruises and Harbor Tours.
OTAY RANCH TOWN CENTER Shops at this airy, stylish South County mall include Apple, Sephora and myriad fashion boutiques. Enjoy outdoor fire pits, a dog park and a movie theater. 2015 Birch Road, Chula Vista, 619.656.9100. Map F3 SEAPORT VILLAGE Picturesque and charming outdoor plaza on the waterfront features 54 one-of-a-kind shops, galleries and restaurants. 849 W. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.235.4014. Map R15 WESTFIELD HORTON PLAZA Popular multi-level outdoor mall features almost 200 shops, two restaurants and a food court. Anchored by Macy’s and Nordstrom. 324 Horton Plaza, downtown, 619.239.8180. Map Q16 WESTFIELD UTC Enjoy more than 150 shops, five restaurants and a food court. Located near UC San Diego, the mall is anchored by Macy’s, Sears and Nordstrom department stores. 4545 La Jolla Village Drive, Golden Triangle, 858.546.8858. Map T21
Nightlife Gaslamp Quarter/Downtown/Little Italy
207/FLOAT Rock ‘n’ roll glamour at the Hard Rock Hotel; two nightspots offer different vibes, from the street-level 207 lounge to the rooftop Float, featuring bottle service in poolside cabanas. Hard Rock Hotel, 207 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.702.3000. Map Q16 AD NIGHTCLUB Cathedral-inspired décor, complete with a mural of Jesus behind the bar, and theatrical elements—including aerial performers and state-of-theart lighting and sound systems—plus 11 custom booths and headlining DJs. Dress to impress. 905 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.780.3606. Map Q16 BANG BANG Campy, Asian-inspired restaurant/ nightclub serves cocktails, punch bowls and an extensive sake list, while big-name DJs get the dance floor going on weekends. 526 Market St., Gaslamp, 619.677.2264. Map Q16 BARLEYMASH Choose from 30 beers on tap from local microbreweries at this casual-cool bar, which also serves up exceptional American cuisine. 600 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.255.7373. Map Q16
$5 OFF
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HORNBLOWER.COM | 619-686-8715 SAN DIEGO NEWPORT BEACH LONG BEACH MARINA DEL REY SAN FRANCISCO BERKELEY NEW YORK * Valid for up to six adult bookings. Not valid on holidays, special events or in combination with any other offer. alid for new bookings only. Mention coupon at time of booking and present upon check-in. Expires 12/31/15.
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Nightlife 2 BY NOËL COWARD IN ROTATING REP
,,
HAY FEVER THE VORTEX SEPTEMBER 23 - NOVEMBER 8
BASIC Urban bar in a cool, renovated warehouse near the ballpark serves brick-oven pizzas. 410 10th Ave., East Village, 619.531.8869. Map Q17 BOOTLEGGER This spacious, light-filled spot features vintage Prohibition-inspired design accents plus pub grub, flat-screen TVs and more. 804 Market St., East Village, 619.794.BOOT. Map Q17 BUB’S @ THE BALLPARK This super-casual East Village sports bar boasts flat screens at every turn so you’ll never miss a game, no matter the sport. Great beer selection and comfort food-style bar menu, plus salads and wraps. 715 J St., East Village, 619.546.0815. Map Q17 THE CASBAH Small but legendary rock club has hosted superstars like Nirvana and The Black Keys on their way up. Live music nightly. 2501 Kettner Blvd., Midtown, 619.232.4355. Map P15
THE HOLIDAY CLASSIC RETURNS
A
CHRISTMAS CAROL
EAST VILLAGE TAVERN & BOWL This lively sports bar and bowling alley near Petco Park also offers darts and pool. Fun bar menu. 950 Market St., East Village, 619.677. BOWL. Map R17
NOV 27 DEC 27
www.cygnettheatre.com
OLD TOWN | SAN DIEGO
Intimate, Joyful, Acclaimed
EL CAMINO Indoor/outdoor Mexican eatery and cantina features unique under-the-flight-path location. 2400 India St., Little Italy, 619.685.3881. Map P15 EL DORADO Hip downtown bar boasts retro-clad mixologists, couture cocktails and DJs. 1030 Broadway, East Village, 619.237.0550. Map Q17 FLUXX Ambiance-changing dance club from the design team behind Sidebar and Stingaree. 500 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.232.8100. Map Q16 HOUSE OF BLUES Live rock, blues and pop music, plus Sunday gospel brunch. Regular mix of national and regional acts. Call for current shows. 1055 Fifth Ave., downtown, 619.299.2583. Map Q16 OMNIA SAN DIEGO The city’s newest nightlife experience includes indoor/outdoor spaces, interactive features, state-of-the-art technology and a superstar lineup of live DJs and electronic artists. F-Sa (nightly). 454 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.544.9500. Map Q16
Ten minutes from downtown on beautiful Coronado Island, steps from the most romantic beaches and restaurants
LAMBSPLAYERS.ORG • 619.437.6000
Tickets on sale Now!
SOLANA
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858.481.1055 • NorthCoastRep.org
AWAKEN
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season
BY KEN LUDWIG
2015/2016
SDREP.ORG | 619.544.1000
September 9 - October 4 WEST COAST PREMIERE
CHAPATTI October 21 November 15
RETURN ENGAGEMENT
THIS WONDERFUL LIFE December 8–27
PARQ This posh new restaurant and nightclub delivers an unparalleled nightlife experience—with a 20,000-squarefoot dance space accessed via a stone tunnel. 615 Broadway, downtown, 619.727.6789. Map Q16 ROOFTOP 600 Vegas-worthy club in the Andaz Hotel boasts sexy décor and a massive, recently renovated rooftop bar with panoramic downtown views. 600 F St., Gaslamp, 619.814.2055. Map Q16 THE SHOUT! HOUSE Dueling pianos played by impossible-to-stump musicians. Music ranges from classic rock to contemporary hits. 655 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.231.6700. Map Q16 SIDEBAR DJs, dancing and bottle service at this sexy, modern downtown lounge. Watch out for swinging bird cages and nude portraits lining the walls. 536 Market St., Gaslamp, 619.696.0946. Map Q16 THE TILTED KILT Scottish-themed pub near the ballpark has 30 plasma TVs and pretty barmaids serving up 24 international brews. 310 10th Ave., East Village, 619.814.5458. Map Q17 THE TIPSY CROW A stylish neighborhood bar with three levels, pool tables, shuffleboard and trivia. Menu features pub grub, craft beer and signature cocktails. 770 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.338.9300. Map Q16 VIN DE SYRAH Alice in Wonderland-themed nightspot located below street level features a whimsical, eye-popping décor, live music, light bites, great wine selection and a full bar. 901 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.234.4166. Map Q16
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Tours +Transport La Jolla
CAFÉ JAPENGO Beautiful people to go along with the artistic sushi and Asian fusion fare; plus a full bar. Thursday nights are popular for the singles crowd. 8960 University Center Lane, UTC, 858.450.3355. Map T21 THE COMEDY STORE It’s stand-up comedy at its funniest at this cozy entertainment venue in the heart of town, featuring both up-and-coming and headlining comedians who tour nationally. 916 Pearl St., La Jolla, 858.454.9176. Map W19
North County
BELLY UP North County’s premier live music venue with killer local and touring acts in a semi-intimate and relaxed setting. 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach, 858.481.8140. Map X22 CARDIFF BEACH BAR AT TOWER 13 Casual beach haunt features live music, healthier bar fare and ocean views. 2633 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, 760.635.1200. Map V22 CLUB M AT FAIRMONT GRAND DEL MAR Chic bar/ dance club features live music and guest DJs. 5300 Grand Del Mar Court, Carmel Valley, 858.314.2700. Map D2 COYOTE BAR & GRILL Hot live music and cool fire pits. Indoor/outdoor spot offers casual ambiance and a view. 300 Carlsbad Village Drive, Carlsbad, 760.729.4695. Map T22 EN FUEGO Lively singles vibe and tasty Mexican food served up on this restaurant’s bustling patio. 1342 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.6551. Map X22 JIMMY O’S A favorite of sports fans and locals. Choose between the sports bar and the nightclub. Friday and Saturday nights are popular for Del Mar socialites. 225 W. 15th St., Del Mar, 858.350.3735. Map X22 SADDLE BAR Enjoy craft beer, stiff drinks, live music and DJs at this Wild West-inspired bar located just a mile away from the racetrack. 123 W. Plaza St., Solana Beach, 858.755.5007. Map W22
Beaches
710 BEACH CLUB Steps from the beach, this live music venue has everything from rock to hip-hop. 710 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach, 858.483.7844. Map H8
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HUMPHREYS BACKSTAGE LOUNGE Live jazz and blues along with dancing. A longtime favorite located right on the water. 2241 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.224.3577. Map K8 JRDN Tower 23 Hotel’s hip bar and lounge overlooks the Pacific Ocean and has a variety of cocktails, beer, wine and a raw bar. 4551 Ocean Blvd., Pacific Beach, 858.270.5736. Map H8 SOUTH BEACH BAR & GRILL Just steps away from the ocean, this bar offers a beachy-casual vibe, light fare and drinks. 5059 Newport Ave., Ocean Beach, 619.226.4577. Map J8 TURQUOISE CAFÉ BAR EUROPA Casual, Euro-style wine bar with tapas, cask wines and live music. 873 Turquoise St., Pacific Beach, 858.488.4200. Map H8 WONDERLAND OCEAN PUB The laid-back American restaurant and sports bar serves up burgers, seafood, craft beer, margaritas and views of the beach. 5083 Santa Monica Ave., Ocean Beach, 619.255.3358. Map J7
©2015 The LEGO Group
LegoLanD® California
Buy at these attractions - Good for 14 days - Skip most ticket lines Connect for current pricing
citypass.com or (888) 330-5008
Tours + Transport BALBOA PARK Free tours about history, architecture, horticulture and botanical gardens. Call for schedule. Visitors Center, House of Hospitality, 1549 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.0512. Map P17
Prices and programs subject to change.
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Tours +Transport BIPLANE, AIR COMBAT & WARBIRD ADVENTURES Fly yesteryear military style on gentle or coastal biplane rides for two, you-fly-it air combat, and loops and rolls in a WWII warbird. Montgomery Field, 760.930.0903. CITYPASS Discount combo packages for the San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, SeaWorld, Universal Studios Hollywood, Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure. $279 (kids $239). 888.330.5008, citypass.com. CORONADO HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION TOURS Educational and fun walking tours—including local history, architecture and gardens. Reservations required. 1100 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.8788. Map L11 ENTERPRISE Daily car rentals with approximately 25 locations throughout Orange County and San Diego. Pick-up service available. 888.484.HOTEL FLAGSHIP CRUISES AND EVENTS Daily narrated tours of San Diego Bay plus brunch and dinner cruises, water-taxi service and more. 990 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 800.442.7847. Map Q14 GASLAMP QUARTER HISTORICAL FOUNDATION Two-hour walking tour of the Gaslamp. Sa 11 a.m. $15. 410 Island Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.4692. Map R16 GASLAMP SEGWAY Guided segway tours of historical neighborhoods including La Jolla and Coronado. 308 G St., Gaslamp, 619.239.2111. Map R16 HORNBLOWER CRUISES Daily narrated tours of San Diego Bay, plus dinner cruises, yacht charters, whale watching and events. 970 N. Harbor Drive, Broadway Pier, Embarcadero, 619.686.8715. Map Q14 LA JOLLA KAYAK Guided snorkeling/kayak tours of the cove and caves; single/double kayak and snorkeling gear rentals; whale-watching; and bike tours. 2199 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla Shores, 858.459.1114. Map V20 MAGICAL ADVENTURES Take a hot-air balloon flight over scenic Del Mar or Temecula Valley wine country for an unforgettable sightseeing experience. 866.ENJOY.US. OLD TOWN TROLLEY TOURS OF SAN DIEGO Narrated sightseeing tour explores San Diego and Coronado via trolley or “SEAL” (sea and land vehicle). On-and-off boarding privileges. 619.298.8687. SAN DIEGO SPEED BOAT ADVENTURES Trained guides help you navigate your own speed boat and the seas via two-way radio on a narrated tour during this 13-mile trek along S.D. Bay. 1450 Harbor Island Drive, #205, Harbor Island, 619.294.5852 Map Q14 SAN DIEGO LUXURY SAILING Sunset sails and whale watching aboard a 45-foot luxury sailing yacht with premium amenities. Yacht memberships available. 1450 Harbor Island Drive, Harbor Island, 404.441.9414 Map J9 URBAN SAFARIS Weekend walkabouts of San Diego neighborhoods (or by appointment). Covers key points of interest and unique details for every area. 619.944.9255. WHERE YOU WANT TO BE TOURS Offering teambuilding scavenger hunts that explore downtown San Diego. Walking and biking tours also available. 611 K St., East Village, 619.917.6037. Map Q16 XPLORE OFFSHORE Personalized ocean-rafting on a Navy SEAL-style boat: high-speed sightseeing, snorkeling and evening cocktails on the waterfront. 858.456.1636.
where?
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WHERE 30 THINGS WE LOVE / san
diego
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3 Croissants and pastries made fresh daily at Pan Bon in Little Italy. p. 20 Celebrity sightings and indie film screenings at the annual San Diego Film Festival. p. 55 The annual 10-day countywide San Diego Beer Week—a salute to our flourishing craft beer scene. (In this particular case, we love it when a week lasts 10 days!) p. 58 Concerts at the Observatory North Park theater. p. 28 Chalk art, costumes, dancing and authentic Italian cuisine at the Little Italy Festa. p. 7 Wine tasting, gourmet bites and stunning water views at the San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival at Marina Park. p. 58 The roasted cauliflower and broccoli dish, plus views from the rooftop, at Rustic Root. p. 9
where in the world
8 Drifting away at the new Driftwood Spa in Carlsbad. p. 12 Olive oil-sampling and shopping for gourmet pantry items at The Front Porch in Mission Hills. Watching the sun set at the appropriately named Sunset Cliffs in Ocean Beach. Apple-picking and worldfamous apple pies in Julian—a perfect autumn day trip. Sunday morning hikes at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve overlooking the ocean. People-watching while peddling along the Mission Beach boardwalk on a beach cruiser.
18 Strolling the Pacific Beach boardwalk and people-watching, pretty much any time of day. Envelope-pushing plays at North Coast Repertory Theatre in Solana Beach. The house-made granola and mixed-berry yogurt at Breakfast Republic in North Park. p. 20 Touring the striking architectural marvel that is The Salk Institute for Biological Studies campus in La Jolla. Crepes, mussels and frites at Bleu Boheme in Kensington (though not necessarily all served together). p. 21
Gallery hopping at Cedros Design District in Solana Beach.
Fabulous fall fashion finds for women at Capricorn Boutique in La Jolla. p. 17
Sunday brunch and breakfast cocktails (we love the Banker’s Bloody Mary) at Bankers Hill Bar & Restaurant uptown. p. 21
Indie flicks and screenings of Rocky Horror Picture Show at the cash-only La Paloma Theatre in Encinitas. p. 31
5 Dining on the garden patio at Kitchen 4140. p. 37 Exploring cool exhibits at the Oceanside Museum of Art—an underrated cultural gem in North County. Hiking to the 6,000-foot summit of Mount Laguna. Scoring fresh flowers and organic produce grown by local farms at the Little Italy Mercato (a farmers market held every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Cedar Street.) Shopping for accessories and home decor at locally owned boutiques in South Park. Hot-air balloon rides over the Del Mar coast at sunset. Jet-Skiing at Fiesta Island.
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