SPRING 2015 WHERESD.COM
San Diego
®
Inside S.D.’s Music Scene FamilyFriendly Nightlife Spruce Up Your Spring Wardrobe T:10.875 in
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BALLPARK BITES YOUR SPRING GUIDE TO GREAT EATS IN EAST VILLAGE AND AT PETCO PARK
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where san diego
spring 2015
CONTENTS
THE MUSIC & CULTURE ISSUE
departments
20
the guide
Beers at Stella Public House
5 Editor’s Note How to tell spring has sprung.
42 DINING Restaurants by cuisine and neighborhood
7 Hot Dates Art Alive, ArtWalk, baseball, Cinco de Mayo and more.
56 ENTERTAINMENT Special events, performing arts, casinos and sports
72 30 Things We Love Gallery-hopping in La Jolla, views at Sunset Cliffs and more.
60 ATTRACTIONS + MUSEUMS Theme parks, activities and exhibitions
where now
63 SHOPPING The county’s best malls and major retail destinations
8 Dining Stake Chophouse, Kettner Exchange and Land & Water Co. in Carlsbad.
64 NIGHTLIFE Hot dance clubs, laid-back lounges and cool cocktail bars
10 Art+Culture Balboa Park, San Diego Opera and California Center for the Arts mark major milestones.
66 TOURS + TRANSPORT Getting out, getting around and getting an insider’s look at the city
12 Entertainment CITY TOURS
14 Shopping
With baseball season in full swing this spring, you’re bound to get hungry. Enjoy our guide to great dining destinations in and near Petco Park in East Village.
16 Noteworthy Inside San Diego’s burgeoning music scene—from emerging acts to follow, to cool concert venues across the county. BY DEREK SHAW
20 Baseball Bites
Fo r e s t
It’s Padres baseball season, which means that win or lose, fans will be hungry. We present our spring/summer guide to good eats and drinks in Petco Park and nearby in East Village.
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Explore the city O c e a n from north to south and A to Z San Diego PAGE 68 Del Mar
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Dial in your golf game with our spring guide to the greens.
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BY SARAH DAOUST
CONNECT WITH US ONLINE
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ON THE COVER
features
Downtown La Jolla Beach Cities Uptown North Coast Old Town Balboa Park
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New boutiques, trendy shops and retail destinations to spruce up your spring wardrobe.
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Family-friendly nightlife options, from roller skating to go-karts.
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Where the magic of the sea comes to life. STORE LISTING (partial) Alamo Flags Apple Box Toys Bay Company Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Buster’s Beach House & Longboard Bar California Original Sunglasses Candy Shack & Yogurt Del Sol Destination Travel Edgewater Grill Frost Me Gourmet Cupcakes Harbor House Restaurant Hot Licks Margarita’s Kitchen & Cantina Mistletoe Mugger San Diego Surf Co. Sports Headquarters Seaport Oil, Vinegars & Wines Swings N’ Things The Tile Shop Toy Cottage Upstart Crow Windsong
849 W. Harbor Drive | San Diego, CA 92101 | 619-235-4014 | seaportvillage.com
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SAN DIEGO
MAGAZINE
PUBLISHER EDITOR
Jeff Levy
Sarah Daoust
ART DIRECTOR
Carol Wakano
MARKETING DIRECTOR EDITOR IN CHIEF
Audrey Nimura
Benjamin Epstein
PRODUCTION ARTIST
Diana Gonzalez
CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER
Heidi Schwindt
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Claire Caraska, David Moye, Derek Shaw CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
John Dole, Amy K. Fellows, Bjarne G. Jensen, Tim King, Limelife Photography, Edwin Santiago, Joe Scarnici, Ashok Sinha, Ian White ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Kerry Brewer, Joanna McLean Stickel, Heather Heintz, Julie Hoffman, Jessica Levin Poff, Heather Price CIRCULATION MANAGER Lisa Hillebrecht PRODUCTION MANAGER Dawn Kiko Cheng WEB MANAGER Christina Xenos BUSINESS MANAGER
Leanne Killian
ADMINISTRATION
Amina Karwa, Beth Moline, Stephanie Reid COPY EDITOR
Claire Caraska
VICE PRESIDENT OF NATIONAL SALES Rick Mollineaux 202.463.4550 WEST COAST NATIONAL SALES Tiffany Reinhold 714.813.6600 HONORARY PRESIDENT
Ted Levy
where San Diego
3990 Old Town Ave., Suite B200 San Diego, CA 92110 Phone: 619.260.5599 Fax: 619.260.5598 EMAIL Advertising JLevy@WhereSD.com Editorial Editor@WhereSD.com Art Art@WhereSD.com Production Ads@WhereSD.com Website Christina.Xenos@WhereSD.com Circulation Lisa.Hillebrecht@WhereSD.com Plan ahead for your next visit to San Diego— subscribe to where: Single copy $4, 4 issues $16. Contact: Lisa Hillebrecht, phone: 619.260.5599, E-mail: Lisa.Hillebrecht@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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In San Diego, where magazine is pleased to be a member of San Diego Concierge Association, Gaslamp Quarter Association, San Diego Tourism Authority and San Diego Historical Society.
On the Web: WhereSD.com 4 WHERESD.COM SPRING 2015
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Welcome A note from the editor
Visit the gallery of California’s most beloved nature artist.
Only in San Diego.
HI, SPRING!
Some people argue that San Diego doesn’t reeeeally have seasons. Before I moved here from Northwest Ohio, where shoveling snow and scraping ice off the car windshield were daily forms of cardio for a good four months of the year, I was one of those people. But now that I’ve been properly spoiled by 14 San Diego winters in a row, I get it. I can see our seasons change. It’s just that the signs of said change have less to do with the slightly warmer weather and more to do with local culture. On that note, here are my top 10 signs you can tell it’s springtime in San Diego: 1. On the fashion front, thick winter scarves get replaced with lighter, pastel-hued scarves. 2. Local surfers shift from heavy, full-body wetsuits to slightly less heavy, full-body wetsuits. 3. Spring-breakers from the Midwest fill up the beaches and try surfing sans wetsuits, then look to local surfers for some “fashion tips” before the hypothermia sets in. 4. Winter festivals transition to spring festivals, several of which are devoted entirely to avocados. (San Diegans LOVE festivals. And avocados.) 5. East Village becomes very, very, very crowded at least three days a week. (Go, Padres!) 6. You can’t go anywhere without seeing some type of “Summer’s just around the corner! Get swimsuit-ready fast!” billboard advertising a fitness boot camp. 7. The Convention Center stairs become overrun with boot-campers furiously sprinting up and down them. 8. The “Cardiff Kook” doesn’t see his shadow, like, at all. (Thanks, marine layer.) 9. The
TIM KING
Carlsbad Flower Fields are in full bloom. (No kidding on this one. Bring a
Dolphin Dawn, original oil painting by Wyland ©
Wyland Galleries
Seaport Village 855 W. Harbor Drive, #52 San Diego, CA 92101 619-544-9995
date and go roam among them, all romantically and slow-motion-like.)
OPEN DAILY 10 AM TO 10 PM
10. WHERE San Diego puts out its awesome annual music & culture issue
www.wyland.com
(which conveniently doubles as a fan should you find yourself getting a
Follow Wyland
little too warm.) Cheers to a new season! —SARAH DAOUST
Get a tour of the gallery and receive a free Wyland print, limit one per family.
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WHERE CALENDAR SPRING 2015 Search the full calendar at wheresd.com
Top Stops
Shipwreck by Thomas Doughty; floral sculpture by Judy Chance
SPRINGTIME IN S.D. IS ALL ABOUT THE GREAT OUTDOORS.
MARCH 1-MAY 10 FLOWER FIELDS Roam among 50 glorious acres of blooming Tecalote Giant Ranunculus flower bulbs at the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch (pictured below) during this nine-week salute to spring. p. 56
HOT DATES
APRIL 24-26 Petal Pushers See the San Diego Museum of Art in full bloom at the 24th annual Art Alive, its signature fundraiser and floral exhibition. The museum’s permanent collection comes to life with 100 exquisite floral interpretations of famous works of art, all handcrafted by competing designers. A highlight: the Art Alive 2015 rotunda designer, René van Rems, will channel the year 1915 with a Victorian England-inspired design. p. 56
TOP, COURTESY SAN DIEGO MUSEUM OF ART
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GREAT THINGS NOT TO BE MISSED
1 LATINO FILM FEST > MARCH 12-22 Last year’s festival commanded 20,500 film lovers. Highlights this year include 155 feature-length and short film screenings, 100 guest filmmakers and actors, industry workshops, and art exhibits. p. 56
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.
2 SAN DIEGO CREW CLASSIC > MARCH 28-29 Around 4,400 athletes will compete in more than 100 races at Crown Point Shores on Mission Bay for the 42nd annual regatta, with more than 25,000 spectators expected. p. 56 3 BASEBALL > ONGOING Here’s to (hopefully) a winning season for the San Diego Padres. Catch a game at Petco Park, with rivals including the L.A. Dodgers (April 24-26), Colorado Rockies (May 1-3) and Pittsburgh Pirates (May 28-31). p. 56
DEL MAR NATIONAL HORSE SHOW > APRIL 16-MAY 3 It’s the 70th anniversary of one of the more prestigious equestrian events in the Western U.S., featuring Western riding, dressage and hunter/jumper competitions; plus the Grand Prix of Del Mar. delmarnational.com 4
5 SAN DIEGO EARTHFAIR > APRIL 19 Balboa Park hosts the world’s largest Earth Day celebration and eco fair produced by volunteers, drawing 60,000 visitors to its 300-plus exhibits. p. 56
MARCH 14 ST. PATRICK’S DAY The party for the main holiday on March 17 starts early. Begin at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival near Balboa Park, featuring traditional dancers, a beer garden and Celtic Village. Then head to the Gaslamp for the annual ShamROCK party, with Irish rock bands, green beer and 40,000 square feet of festive Astroturf. p. 56 MAY 2 CINCO DE MAYO Head to the annual Old Town Fiesta Cinco de Mayo in historic Old Town to celebrate Mexican history, culture and cuisine—featuring historical reenactments and live music. p. 56 MAY 7-10 GATOR BY THE BAY The annual Gator by the Bay Zydeco, Blues & Crawfish Festival takes over Spanish Landing Park with 25 bands performing across five stages; plus dance lessons, Cajun cooking demos, boiled crawfish and beignets. p. 56
6 ARTWALK > APRIL 25-26 Mission Federal Artwalk (pictured at left) is the city’s largest art festival, connecting 100,000 visitors with more than 350 artists showcasing around $1 million worth of artwork—all in the heart of Little Italy. p. 56 7 ADAMS AVE. UNPLUGGED > APRIL 25-26 Enjoy 150 performances by 135 acts across 25 indoor/outdoor stages along Adams Avenue. p. 56
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THE BEST IN ENTERTAINMENT, SHOPPING AND DINING
DINING
All American The trend of non-Italian eateries setting up shop in Little Italy continues with Kettner Exchange, a striking two-story restaurant and bar from the minds behind Vin de Syrah, Analog and Firehouse. A small but impeccably executed menu shines with seasonal, handcrafted libations overseen by Steven Tuttle, as well as creative American dishes with global influences courtesy of Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski. We love the big-eye tuna “pizza” with truffle oil and ponzu, the fried chicken with jasmine rice and Vietnamese herbs, and the gluten-free gnocchi. For dessert, the creamy chocolate cup (pictured) is as silky in texture as it is decadent. The cozy, dimly lit dining room downstairs features wood-paneled walls, plush booths and a two-way fireplace. Upstairs sits a second dining area and Little Italy’s only rooftop patio bar—a sprawling oasis with cabanas and bay views. Subtle nautical touches such as working vintage binoculars complete the sumptuous space. 2001 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.255.2001
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The luxe dining room at Stake Chophouse
TOP LEFT, ANDREW JORGENSEN; BOTTOM RIGHT, CAROLYN HIMES IMAGERY
CHOP, CHOP! Carnivores, we’ve located your new mother ship: Stake Chophouse & Bar, the latest brainchild of Blue Bridge Hospitality. The gleaming indoor/outdoor rooftop retreat is a sexy, modern steakhouse punctuated by an 18-foot, backlit onyx wall on the inside—opening out to a sleek, quartzite bar and six linear outdoor fire pits on its airy terrace. Executive Chef Tim Kolanko knows his proteins; the menu boasts a 50-ounce tomahawk rib chop, American Wagyu beef and a 35-day, dry-aged, bone-in New York strip. Stake is also the only restaurant in San Diego serving A5 Japanese Wagyu beef, a rare delicacy from Japan. Wine Director Greg Majors curates a 2,000-bottle inventory of 200 selections—all housed in the restaurant’s two elegant glass wine cellars on full display. As a finale, Executive Pastry Chef Francis Laureano’s apple strudel is comfort food at its finest. 1309 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.522.0077
North Star Seasonal seafood sings at Land & Water Co.— the iconic, 126-year-old, Victorian mansion-turned culinary hot spot where Chef Robert Ruiz has made “conscientious dining” downright delicious. Touted as a French Izakaya (which translates to “blending food and drink” in Japanese), the restaurant offers an array
of specialty sushi rolls, nigiri and sashimi, as well French-infused California cuisine that arrives in both smaller and shareable plates. Recent dishes have included fresh-caught Steelhead salmon with an orange-ginger demi-glace; bright persimmon purée with a baby kale salad; savory bacon herb jus with chicken and gravy; and a
honey-amaretto poached seasonal pear stuffed with Brie, accompanied by a frangipane tart. All food items are derived from hyper-local, sustainably and responsibly sourced ingredients and humanely raised proteins—a prime infusion of freshness to a charming, historic space. 2978 Carlsbad Blvd., Carlsbad, 760.729.5263
Fresh sushi at Land & Water Co.
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ART+CULTURE
Major Milestones Three San Diego cultural staples celebrate significant anniversaries in style. 50 AND FABULOUS
20 AND COUNTING
What started as a desolate 1,400-acre plot in 1868—and later hosted the Panama-California Exposition of 1915—is now one of the most popular, culturally rich and scenically stunning parks in the world. The iconic Balboa Park honors its centennial in 2015, with celebrations throughout the year. Spring is prime time to partake in the park's many festivities— which include special performances, exhibits and improvement projects—at its museums, performing arts venues, gardens and the San Diego Zoo. Projects of note include The Drive to 5,000 Pipes, an effort by the Spreckels Organ Society to restore the Spreckels Organ—the world’s largest outdoor pipe organ; and the reopening of the famous, 150-foottall California Tower at the Museum of Man, where the public can once again climb to the top after an 80-year closure. 1549 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.0512, celebratebalboapark.org
The last year for San Diego Opera (SDO) has been quite the wild ride. Its announcement in March 2014 that it would be closing was followed by an unprecedented $2.3 million grassroots funding effort that saved it. Now celebrating its 50th anniversary season, the opera company presents a lineup of special events, a mariachi opera and three traditional operas—one of which is Nixon in China, slated for March 14, 17, 20 and 22 at the Civic Theatre. John Adams’ extraordinary opera combines fact and fiction as it recounts Richard Nixon’s 1972 goodwill visit to China, seen through the eyes of the participants. SDO also will present several special events, including 50th-anniversary celebration concerts April 18-19 at Copley Symphony Hall; and a new mariachi opera, El Pasado Nunca Se Termina (The Past is Never Finished), on April 25 at the Civic Theatre. 619.533.7000, sdopera.com
On the heels of its recent 20th anniversary, inland North County’s cultural hub, California Center for the Arts, Escondido, has entered its prime with an impressive roster of incoming talent gracing its stages. More than two-dozen performing arts attractions are scheduled in the 1,523-seat Concert Hall and the 404-seat Center Theater throughout the rest of this year, with performances spanning world-renowned dance troupes, jazz and classical musicians and even comedy routines. The diverse spring 2015 lineup includes Croatian cello duo 2Cellos on March 10; the second annual Mariachi Festival, March 29; musical revue In the Mood, April 1; acclaimed ensemble group Quartetto Gelato, April 7; Ticket to Ride: A Live Tribute to the Beatles, May 2; and raucous comedy act Whose Live Anyway?, May 30. 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido, 800.988.4253, artcenter.org
COURTESY SAN DIEGO OPERA
100 YEARS YOUNG
San Diego Opera's mariachi opera: El Pasado Nunca Se Termina (The Past is Never Finished)
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ENTERTAINMENT
So, it's spring break, and you're ready to party. San Diego is home to some excellent bars and dance clubs to fit the bill. However, if you're traveling with children, you're likely to experience very few of them. Yes, kids have a different idea of fun nightlife than adults, but that doesn’t mean the whole family can’t have fun after the Zoo, SeaWorld and Legoland close for the day. We rounded up some family-friendly best bets for when the sun sets. Family-fun nightlife starts on the sand. A must-visit destination is the worldfamous Belmont Park in Mission Beach. The property has had its ups and downs in its near-century history. Fortunately, the park has had a recent upswing thanks to new owners who have added new attractions, such as a miniature golf course and zip-line course, while refurbishing old classics. The Giant Dipper roller coaster is a historical landmark thanks to its enjoyable wooden “rickety-ness,” while the Wave House allows gremmies of all ages to try surfing in the safety of a pool. (A warning: You will fall down, but that’s okay.) A new tiki-themed miniature golf course brings some tropical flair next to old-school midway attractions such as the bumper cars. Carnival treats from corn dogs to frozen pineapple whip abound, but the real treat for foodies is the new restaurant, Draft. Adults, try the curried cauliflower or bratwurst burger with a local craft beer. Just outside downtown San Diego in Barrio Logan, K1 Speed is an upscale indoor go-karting facility where wannabe NASCAR drivers can zip around a track
for 14 laps at a time. The person with the best time for a single lap earns bragging rights. The focus is on speed, but the staff emphasizes safety and doesn’t hesitate to discipline reckless drivers. Adults and kids race separately so you can’t run your rug rat off the road. Families with younger kids will enjoy Boomers! in Clairemont Mesa, El Cajon, and Vista. The emphasis is on miniature golf and arcade games, and the bumper boats in warm weather; plus go-karting and amusement rides such as a Ferris wheel and a wild ride called the Flame Thrower for the tweens. Nearby in Linda Vista is a slice of disco heaven known as Skateworld. Built in a former World War II Quonset hut, Skateworld is a time machine back to the days of rainbow suspenders, 'fros and Michael Jackson songs all night. Adults will love the vintage setting, skates, music and prices. Wednesday is Family Night where admission is only $5 with free skate rental. Grantville to the east is home to a great place to rock out and relax at the same time. Grotto Climbing & Yoga offers fam-
ily-friendly yoga classes all day and evening, as well as indoor rock-climbing walls suitable for every ability level. A one-day pass ($18 for adults, $13 for kids) yields unlimited yoga classes and access to rock walls until midnight. Sky Zone in Chula Vista is a hyperactive kid’s dream: wall-to-wall trampolines for jump-jump-jumping. Some trampolines are set up under basketball hoops so even small kids can dunk a ball. For daring types, try playing dodgeball games—you can literally jump out of the way of a ball. Best of all: The jumping is such a tiring workout that the kids likely will be sleeping all the way back to the hotel. While you’re in Chula Vista, check out Lazer Journey and EastLake Tavern + Bowl in the same shopping center. Lazer Journey is an engaging laser tag facility that is challenging for older kids but not too dark and scary for the little ones; while EastLake Tavern + Bowl offers bowling, including bumpers to reduce gutter balls— plus tasty burgers and fish tacos. Downtown, try East Village Tavern + Bowl as another option. —David Moye
(FROM TOP LEFT) IMAGES COURTESY EAST VILLAGE TAVERN + BOWL, GROTTO CLIMBING & YOGA, BELMONT PARK
FAMILY-FRIENDLY NIGHTLIFE
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DETAILS Belmont Park 3146 Mission Blvd., Mission Beach, 858.228.9283 K1 Speed 1709 Main St., Barrio Logan, 619.241.4740 (Also in Carlsbad) Boomers! 6999 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., Clairemont, 858.560.4211 (Also in Vista and El Cajon) Skateworld 6907 Linda Vista Road, Linda Vista, 858.560.9349 Grotto Climbing & Yoga 4460 Alvarado Canyon Road, Grantville, 619.283.2105 Sky Zone 851 Showroom Place, Chula Vista, 619.754.9782 (Also in San Marcos) Lazer Journey 871 Showroom Place, Chula Vista, 619.934.4200 EastLake Tavern + Bowl 881 Showroom Place, Chula Vista, 619.565.2695 East Village Tavern + Bowl 930 Market St., East Village, 619.677.2695
Clockwise from left: East Village Tavern + Bowl, Grotto Climbing & Yoga, the historical Giant Dipper roller coaster at Belmont Park
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SHOPPING
RETAIL THERAPY
A handmade tote from Boutonné
Shop till you drop at these new retail destinations promising to spruce up your spring wardrobe.
TIP TOP
TAX-FREE
Exclusive style brand Topshop/ Topman has opened its first San Diego location at Fashion Valley Mall—a striking, 17,500-square-foot, two-story store. On the brightly lit first floor, shop the brand’s premium feminine lines, mainline collections, denim, accessories, Topshop beauty products and petite-sized clothing. On the basement floor—which is personified by a masculine interior of dark woods, LED lights and tinted windows— peruse the well-curated Topman collection, including a sophisticated range of suits and smart wear, denim in various fits, the Topman mainline range and footwear. The basement also houses select Topshop products such as shoes, lingerie, maternity and swimwear; as well as the Topshop/Topman stylist service. 7007 Friars Road, Mission Valley, 619.294.5745
Down in San Ysidro, retailer Duty Free City has opened its U.S.-Mexico flagship location at the border. Shop for luxury items tax-free inside the upscale, 14,000-square-foot center— from beauty products and fragrances to leather goods to wine and spirits to tobacco. The shopping center also houses hair and nail services, a wine and cigar lounge with daily wine tasting, and the City Café serving sandwiches, coffee and confections. Amenities also include valet parking and seasoned personal shoppers. 601 E. San Ysidro Blvd., San Ysidro, 619.621.2600 CHIC BOUTIQUES
Flower Hill Promenade welcomes two more adorable tenants peddling original goods. The ROW Collective has opened The Printed Palette, a vintageinspired shop offering eclectic, one-of-a-kind clothing for men, women and children; plus fun Denim at Topman
finds for the home such as wall prints, wood signs and planter boxes. Also new is the first-ever flagship location for Boutonné, a design house for superiorquality, handmade leather goods and accessories for men and women. The collection includes messenger bags, totes, reversible carryalls, wallets, sandals, dog leashes and jewelry. Our favorite: the chocolate leather, envelopestyle laptop case, which retails for $119. 2690 Via de la Valle, Del Mar; theprintedpalette.com; shopboutonne.com DAPPER DUDS
At the Westfield UTC shopping center fringing La Jolla, emerging menswear e-retailer Bonobos has opened its first brick-andmortar San Diego “guide shop”—
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i.e., an e-commerce store where shoppers can view and try on current collections and get feedback from a professional stylist before purchasing. Here’s how it works: Make an appointment for a one-on-one fitting with a Bonobos guide, either online or by calling the store (walk-ins also welcome); then place your order during your appointment or at home later. Shipping is free and items are delivered to your doorstep in two to five days. The company offers free return shipping and guarantees customer satisfaction. Bonobos is the largest Internet-launched men’s clothing brand in the U.S., known for its excellent-fitting pieces. 4545 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla, 858.226.1373, bonobos.com/guideshop
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CORON
O RAN G E
AV E N U E
A
premier destination for world-class shopping and dining, Orange Avenue is nestled in the heart of historic Coronado—located just minutes from downtown San Diego. Enjoy a scenic drive over the famed Coronado Bridge or take the ferry across the bay to access this exclusive seaside community’s many charming shops and restaurants.
SHORELINES GALLERY
918 Orange Ave. 619 727 4080 slsdgallery.com
LEROY’S KITCHEN & LOUNGE 1015 Orange Ave. 619 437 6087 leroyskitchenandlounge.com
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STAKE CHOPHOUSE & BAR
CORONADO TASTE OF OILS
EMERALD C GALLERY
ROOT 75 FLOWERS & HOME
1309 Orange Ave. 619 522 0077 stakechophouse.com
1331 Orange Ave. 619 996 3315 emeraldc.com
954 Orange Ave. 619 522 0098 coronadotasteofoils.com
845 Orange Ave. 619 435 6060 root75.com
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NOTEWORTHY A FRESH LOOK INSIDE SAN DIEGO’S DISTINCTIVE AND GROWING MUSIC SCENE, FROM BANDS ON THE BRINK TO WHERE TO LISTEN LIVE By DEREK SHAW
F
ar removed from the turf wars of Orange County, out of Los Angeles’ industrial limelight, San Diego has long been known for its cohesive music community. There’s never been a shortage of talented artists, but over the past decade, the volume of venues has amplified. Coinciding with the craft beer movement, it’s a cinch to find nightly live shows, extensive drink programs and cozy quarters. Local acts like Widows and The Lumps are leading the punk charge. Mattson 2 and Joshua White are jazz virtuosos. Champ is a sweet synth pop trio, and rockers such as The Burning of Rome, New Mexico and The Heavy Guilt are always worth catching. The latest craze is an experimental cross between flower folk and psych. Whatever the pleasure, this town has something happening tonight, and that’s music to our ears.
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vintage amps, unleashing a rockslide despite the stripped-down approach. Catalano, a longtime sound engineer from Santa Cruz, Calif., produces their polished yet authentic recordings. His tasty chops are complemented by Spina’s unwavering attack. Hailing from Chicago, where she started playing drums at age 10, her technique is refined and relentless. Little Hurricane is certainly quite the pair, but they hope to eventually add a backing band with keys, bass and a horn section. Labels are drooling over them, and it’s a matter of time before the storm arrives. Spring plans include a Europe trip in May, and they tentatively plan to release their third album this summer. Keep your eyes on the skies at littlehurricanemusic.com.
Members of The Midnight Pine; Gary Hankins (below)
ACTS TO FOLLOW LITTLE HURRICANE It’s morning in light of one hell of a night. Swamp songs splash from the jukebox in a marsh of chewing tobacco and cheap whiskey. Much like their predecessors in Delta Spirit and Dirty Sweet, Little Hurricane is one of those local bands that sound more Southern than Southern Californian. Their raw, blues-driven anthems are both infectious
THE MIDNIGHT PINE Something’s astir in the trees, draped by a smoky silhouette, and the townsfolk wonder what’s afoot. They warn against paying heed, urged to cover their ears, but it’s just too beautiful, and before long the entire village gathers in the woods. The Midnight Pine looms tall in the moonlight, conjuring spirits from the souls of its captives. Alfred Howard is a wordsmith and junk percussionist armed with an afro pick, antique trinkets and homemade devices including a chain foot pedal, saw blades, sheet metal and a circuit-bent radio. Give the guy a ball of string and a hunk of wood, and he’ll make it sound cool. Shelbi Bennett, who spent years in choir and studied jazz but had never played in a band, is more of a siren than a singer. Her voice is mystical and eerie—a fitting complement to the sparse, cinematic soundscape. Together they craft something ghostly yet palpable, with Howard’s haunting lyrics leaping from her lips in a transcendental experience. The Midnight Pine is folky, mesmerizing and oddly familiar, like Tom Waits booking a room at Neutral Milk Hotel.
and gritty. It’s no surprise that they’re the biggest band to emerge from San Diego in the past five years. They’ve played Lollapalooza, South by Southwest and Austin City Limits, and their tunes have appeared on television shows and commercials. Anthony “Tone” Catalano and Celeste “CC” Spina resemble a wholesome version of Jack and Meg White, although they sound more like The Dead Weather. It’s the rumble of vicious downbeats, twangy slide guitar and a dog pack of distortion from
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MUST-VISIT MUSIC VENUES THE CASBAH For more than 25 years, this legendary bar and concert venue has reigned supreme. Whether hosting a big local show or notable touring act, it’s the place to be. 2501 Kettner Blvd., Midtown, 619.232.4355, casbahmusic.com OBSERVATORY NORTH PARK A recent change in ownership only seems to have made this historical venue, formerly the North Park Theatre, all the more intriguing. 2891 University Ave., North Park, 619.239.8836, observatorynp.com BAR PINK Located in the heart of North Park, this is a go-to watering hole
for stiff drinks, consistent live shows and no cover charge. 3829 30th St., North Park, 619.564.7194, barpink.com
BALBOA THEATRE A gem of the Gaslamp, this 90-year-old movie palace was renovated into an epic setting that promises to dazzle any concertgoer. 868 Fourth Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100, sdbalboa.org EL DORADO One of the hippest hotspots in town, the staple of East Village attracts an energetic crowd eager to dance to indie bands or DJs. 1030 Broadway, downtown, 619.237.0550, eldoradobar.com
The supporting cast has become equally crucial to their dynamic. Josh Rice (The Heavy Guilt) is a beast on Rhodes piano; guitarist Matt Molarius (Transfer) is a wellrespected songwriter; and violinist Marta Z is simply angelic, flirting with the fragile melody like wolves around a fawn. Fall under the spell at themidnightpine.bandcamp.com.
GARY HANKINS & THE SUMMER KNOWLEDGE Call him a minstrel or performance artist; just don’t let the glitter fool you. Gary Hankins is one bad dude on stage. Quirky yet pop sensible, he’s a contagious, unclassifiable fusion of folk, noise, garage and glam. After founding
BELLY UP Situated in Solana Beach, it’s easily the sweetest coastal venue around. The vibe is warm and laid back, but things can also get frisky. 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach, 858.481.8140, bellyup.com SODA BAR For a true taste of the scene, this is one of the finest venues to catch a unique local act or an emerging touring band. 3615 El Cajon Blvd., Normal Heights, 619.255.7224, sodabarmusic.com SYCAMORE DEN Creative cocktails and a sexy yet understated ambiance make this neighborly lounge
local greats Scarlet Symphony and Shapes of Future Frames, Hankins refined his craft at the Tin Can Country Club—a weekly collective of resident musicians interpreting traditional tunes. Accordingly, Summer Knowledge borrows the title of a Delmore Schwartz poem from 1959, and several of the tracks on his debut EP are adaptations of old folk songs. Whereas much of his prolific career was spent as a menacing front man, this time around he’s playing acoustic guitar, writing autonomously and recording himself. The result is a more intimate side of Hankins. His vocal inflection is still reminiscent of Bowie and the theatrics are hardly subdued, but there’s something sincerely charming about
YEAH, THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT … Looking for an easy way to follow your favorite musicians, discover new ones and even book local acts for a private performance? GigTown, a new, free mobile app, allows users to easily browse and listen to tracks by local artists, create lists of favorites, customize playlists and view video footage of concerts. Users can also hire local musicians for events by simply setting their location, selecting the date and time, and submitting a booking request directly to the artist. Musicians set their own hourly rates in advance, so users know the cost up front, and once the performance ends, the user pays and rates the musicians directly through the app. Founded by San Diegans Steve Altman, former president of Qualcomm, Inc., and his son, Andy Altman, GigTown is available for download in the Apple App Store and coming to Androids soon. Rock on. gigtown.com
the EP Epiphany, Notion, Potions & Lore. The stories are personal and pastoral, begging to not only be heard but also absorbed and mulled over. "Big Sur II" is a delightful introduction and even lovelier poem. "Feelin’" might be the catchiest hook of the millennium; and just when you think the record is through, a secret dub instrumental sends it off with a heady bang. Hankins recently unveiled his second EP and plans to release his first full-length this spring. He’s no stranger to the local circuit but also expressed interest in throwing his own living room parties and warehouse shows. One thing’s for sure—the good times will keep on coming at summerknowledge.com.
THE MIDNIGHT PINE, REBECCA AND KEVIN JOELSON; GARY HANKINS, CHRIS MAROULAKOS/OWL AND BEAR; LITTLE FURRICANE, REBECCA WILSON
irresistible. 3391 Adams Ave., Normal Heights, 619.563.9019, sycamoreden.com
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From left: Sycamore Den; GigTown logo; Anthony Catalano and Celeste Spina of Little Hurricane
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Baseball
BITES Your Spring/Summer Guide to Great Eats in East Village and Petco Park By SARAH DAOUST
Clockwise from left: beer and margherita pizza at Stella Public House; Petco Park; ice cream sandwiches at The Baked Bear.
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Spring is in the air, and the San Diego Padres are ready to play ball. East Village, home of Petco Park, will be buzzing with baseball fans during home games, the first of which is on April 9 against the San Francisco Giants. Should you be one of those fans looking for a bite to eat before, during or after the game, we have you covered in our guide of food and drink offerings nearby. All are located within a five-minute walk from the stadium. Batter up!
TOP RIGHT, COPYRIGHT HOWARD LIPIN/THE SAN DIEGO UNION-TRIBUNE/ZUMAPRESS.COM
W
E BEGIN INSIDE Petco Park, where a newer lineup of eateries has elevated ballpark dining to a foodie-approved level. At Rimel’s Rotisserie on the Roof, Roof located on the roof of the Western Metal Supply Co. building, load up on rotisserie chicken, fish tacos and veggie bowls. On the Toyota Terrace, grind on gourmet burritos at Lucha Libre Taco Shop, baby-back ribs and coleslaw at the new full-sized Phil’s BBQ outpost, massive burgers at Hodad’s, and cappuccino and tea drinks at Ryan Bros. Coffee. At field level, Seaside Market is a mini version of its Cardiff counterpart, offering health-conscious fare from fresh fruit to salads to smoothies; plus a deli case, hot food bar and its famous tri-tip sandwiches. Satisfy that sweet tooth at The Baked Bear, known for its decadent ice cream sandwiches made with freshly baked cookies. Quench your thirst at several new beer havens, including Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens on the Upper Deck Terrace; and Ballast Point’s new taproom, The Draft, which sits above Seaside Market on the Garden Level. Just outside Petco Park sits Rare Form—a stylish neighborhood deli and schnapps bar located on the first floor of the Simon Levi building. The deli is known for its butcher shop-style cuts of meat—from smoked ham to house-cured pastrami to knockwurst to chicken schnitzel—along with pâtés, terrines, soups, savory waffle sandwiches and its new indoor bocce ball court. In honor of baseball season, Rare Form recently unveiled a new menu of gourmet hot dogs, complete with handcrafted buns and house-made condiments. Upstairs, Fairweather, a rooftop bar overlooking Petco, specializes in mai tais, pina coladas and mojitos. If thin-crust pizza is on your mind, Basic Urban Kitchen + Bar is your spot. The urban warehouseturned-eatery and bar serves up Connecticut-style, thin-crust pies, craft brews, classic cocktails and
DETAILS Basic Urban Kitchen + Bar
410 10th Ave., East Village, 619.531.8869
Bub’s @ the Ballpark 715 J St., East Village, 619.546.0815
Petco Park
100 Park Blvd., East Village, 619.795.5000
Rare Form and Fairweather
793 J St., East Village, 619.255.6507
Stella Public House and Halcyon 1429 Island Ave., East Village, 619.234.0808; 619.234.0807
Table No. 10
369 10th Ave., East Village, 619.550.1262
boutique wines. Choose from a handful of base pies, including a gluten-free option, and build your own custom creation from there with fun toppings such as fresh little neck clams and Gorgonzola cheese. Or try a classic pizza such as the Mashed—a white pie with Parmesan, garlic and olive oil, topped with mashed potatoes, mozzarella and bacon. Expect hearty bar fare, flat-screen TVs galore and games such as indoor basketball at Bub’s @ the Ballpark—a bustling sports bar featuring an outdoor patio. The appropriately baseball-themed menu includes a First Base section featuring sliders, chicken tenders and mini corndogs. Wing connoisseurs will love the Garbage Wings tossed with blue cheese crumbles, bacon, almonds, red onion, sesame seeds and several sauces; while salad seekers will enjoy the kale, Brussels sprouts and broccoli salad. There’s even a separate menu devoted entirely to tater tots. Drinks include nearly two-dozen draft beers, 10 craft brews on rotation and 10 different mules for $10 each. For a quieter, refined dining experience, walk over to Table No. 10, located inside the historical 1919 Carnation Milk factory—featuring an open kitchen, urbanindustrial décor, craft cocktails, an onsite garden and a modern American menu loaded with small plates. Standouts include the crispy chicken skins, the scallops with pork belly and the daily deviled eggs. On the corner of 14th and Island sits a striking new space housing two cool hangouts. Stella Public House is a “farm-to-pizza” restaurant known for its wood oven-fired pies loaded with seasonal local ingredients and Neapolitan-style crust; as well as around 30 rotating craft beers on tap and an internationally curated wine list. Next door, Halcyon is a modern coffeehouse and lounge serving up hot coffee drinks, teas, cocktails, smoothies, sandwiches, salads and make-your-own s’mores. Both venues share a generous 3,000-squarefoot, indoor/outdoor space and a 1,500-square-foot patio overlooking a soon-to-be-finished urban park— perfect for post-Padres celebrating.
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GOLF GUIDE
TEE TIME MADERAS GOLF CLUB
Amid 400 acres in the coastal foothills of Carlsbad, La Costa features two 18-hole courses (including the recently redone championship North Course), a driving range, equipment rental and Southern California’s only TOUR Golf Academy. The last four holes of the South Course are known as “the longest mile in golf.” 2100 Costa del Mar Road, Carlsbad, 800.854.5000
This Johnny Miller- and Robert Muir Graves–designed course, named by Golf Digest as one of “America’s 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses,” is set in secluded canyons and ravines 20 minutes northeast of downtown—complemented by creeks, lakes, waterfalls and native wildflowers. This 18-hole course plays to 7,115 yards from the back tees—and with five sets of tees, golfers of all skill levels can enjoy. The renowned maintenance practices of Troon Golf assure championship conditions every single day. 17750 Old Coach Road, Poway, 866.233.0496
TORREY PINES GOLF COURSE Home of the PGA’s esteemed annual tournament Farmers Insurance Open—won by Tiger Woods seven times, including in January 2013—Torrey Pines is one of the best-known properties in the U.S. Its two public courses have stunning ocean views from the bluffs above the Pacific, wide fairways and sloping greens. 11480 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, 858.552.1662
PARK HYATT AVIARA The only Arnold Palmer signature golf course in San Diego, Aviara winds through rolling valleys with ocean views. Named by Golf Digest, Golf and Condé Nast Traveler maga-
zines as one of the best in existence, the resort also welcomes non-guests to play. 7447 Batiquitos Drive, Carlsbad, 760.603.6900
BARONA CREEK GOLF CLUB This par-72 course, spanning 7,088 yards and created by Gary Roger Baird Design, includes 100-plus bunkers and a series of lakes and ponds. It was also the host site for the 2007 Nationwide Tour Championships. Barona Valley Ranch Resort & Casino, 1932 Wildcat Canyon Road, Lakeside, 619.443.2300
RANCHO BERNARDO INN This 18-hole championship course features two natural lakes, a driving range with grass or mat tees and a championship yardage of 6,631. The resort has hosted PGA and LPGA events, and offers instruction and clinics by PGA pros. 17550 Bernardo Oaks Drive, Rancho Bernardo, 858.385.8733
BRIAN OAR, AVIARA GOLF CLUB-HYATT
OMNI LA COSTA RESORT & SPA
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Torrey Pines Golf Course
$100
4 famous theme parks
3-Day Park Hopper® to Disneyland® Park and Disney California Adventure® Park
DIAL IN YOUR GOLF GAME WITH OUR SPRING GUIDE TO THE GREENS. CORONADO MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE You may have difficulty keeping your eye on the ball at this 18-hole championship course: From the back nine, the views of the Coronado Bridge and the San Diego skyline across the bay can be beautifully distracting. 2000 Visalia Row, Coronado, 619.435.3121
THE GRAND GOLF CLUB Arguably the most scenically breathtaking course in the country, this exclusive golf course at the Grand Del Mar—one of the top luxury resorts in the world—is a true treat to play. Open to resort guests, members and the property’s villa owners, its immaculate, Tom Fazio-designed fairways, rolling greens and dramatic elevations bordering Los Peñasquitos Canyon make for an unforgettable round. 5200 Grand Del Mar Court, Del Mar, 858.314.1930
Universal Studios HollywoodSM
SYCUAN RESORT Set amid rugged mountains and natural rock outcroppings, Sycuan Resort is a 25-minute drive east from downtown San Diego. There are two, 18-hole championship courses and an 18-hole executive course spread over some 425 acres. Also onsite is a golf school designed exclusively for women of all ages and skill levels, taught by LPGA professionals. 3007 Dehesa Road, El Cajon, 619.442.3425
SALT CREEK GOLF CLUB Carved through the foothills of Mount Miguel, this 280-acre layout is a links design by John Cook. It features three lakes, 78 bunkers and plenty of lush wetlands. The scenic course is surrounded by a wildlife refuge—not housing developments. Five sets of tees suit all levels, measuring 6,889 yards from the back tees and 5,505 from the forward tees. 525 Hunte Parkway, Chula Vista, 619.656.2373
SeaWorld® San Diego
Buy at these attractions - Good for 14 days - Skip most ticket lines First use must occur by June 2, 2015. Expires June 15, 2015.
Connect for current pricing
citypass.com or (888) 330-5008
Prices and programs subject to change.
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EXPLORING
Downtown
THE PAST AND PRESENT COME TOGETHER IN SAN DIEGO’S LIVELY, HISTORIC DOWNTOWN NEIGHBORHOODS.
➺
Downtown San Diego is the city’s bustling, historic 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. Businessman Alonzo Erastus Horton envisioned San Diego as a bustling port city, and in 1867 he spent $264 for 800 acres he called “New Town.” Today, New Town is known as the historic Gaslamp Quarter, or simply “the Gaslamp.” Comprising more than 16 square blocks, the Gaslamp stretches from Broadway to Harbor Drive (just north of the Convention Center), with Fourth, Fifth and Sixth avenues as its main thoroughfares. Anchoring the area’s northwest end is Horton Plaza, a small square with a bubbling fountain on the corner of Broadway and Fourth. The Gaslamp’s immaculately preserved Victorian-style buildings are home to dozens of restaurants, clubs, theaters and retailers. Several tour guides offer an insider’s look at the Gaslamp (see p. 66), 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 southern end of the Gaslamp, be sure to visit the Chuck Jones Gallery (232 Fifth Ave.) for cool animation art by emerging artists. Also check out the Art of Tim Cantor Gallery (527 Fourth Ave.) for a variety of one-of-akind conceptual art, oil paintings and writings. 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 retailers, 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. 63), a multilevel outdoor mall with a kaleidoscopic design that kicked off the revitalization of downtown 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 historic 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 sightseeing, 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. 55).
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. Sites worth exploring 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 beautiful garden with a koi pond. More than a century old, 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 many performing 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, now-alive neighborhood east of the Gaslamp.
(FROM LEFT) IAN WHITE, EDWIN SANTIAGO, JOHN DOLE
Gaslamp Quarter
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Shop among feisty fashions at Bloom boutique (660 Ninth Ave.); or nab a pair of new kicks at Blends (719 Eighth Ave.), which sells rare urban footwear, trainers and high-tops. Then grab a fine California cabernet sauvignon at Bacchus Wine Market (647 G St.). 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 mixed-media work by emerging and mid-career 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 the popular Bottlecraft (2252 India St.) and new Ballast Point (2215 India St.) craft beer tasting rooms; a handful of small art galleries, such as Meyer Fine Art (2400 Kettner Blvd., suite 104), featuring contemporary art by renowned artists; and trendy boutiques, including Spoil Me Rotten (1501 India St.), offering women’s dresses, blouses, scarves and jewelry. 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. Running parallel to India Street, Kettner Boulevard forms the spine of the art-and-design district. A gallery cluster near the corner of Kettner and Kalmia includes Subtext Gallery (2479
Left to right: Downtown’s floating Maritime Museum; sidewalk fronts in Little Italy; the landmark entrance to the Gaslamp Quarter.
Kettner Blvd.), focused on lowbrow and graphic artists. Shop for vintage and modern furniture, art and home accents at @HOM (2310-B Kettner Blvd.). And pop into Kapreeza (1772 Kettner Blvd.), a European lingerie and swimwear shop. Be on the lookout for NoLi Nights, a walkable quarterly event showcasing North Little Italy businesses; enjoy 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).
G R E AT F I N D
The bayside boardwalk is ideal for walking to and from the Convention Center. Grab an iced cappuccino at Upstart Crow Bookstore & Coffeehouse (835-C W. Harbor Drive) and head for the Embarcadero Marina Park, which offers bike and jogging trails, basketball courts and picnicking. Continue north along the harbor to Broadway Pier, where you can embark on sightseeing excursions or catch the Coronado Ferry (1050 N. Harbor Drive), which travels across the bay several times daily. Make time to tour the retired USS Midway (see p. 63) aircraft carrier and the floating Maritime Museum (see p. 61). After a day of exploring, get pampered at Spa Velia at Harbor Towers (200 Harbor Drive). For a map of these neighborhoods, see p. 70. For restaurants in this area, see p. 55.
/ latin flare
➺ Sample gourmet seafood dishes with an exotic twist at Sirena. The new eatery is casual in
vibe yet fancy in flavor, with Latin American-inspired plates that change regularly at the discretion of Executive Chef Jaime Chavez, who personally hunts for the freshest locally sourced seafood and produce daily. The menu features salads and small plates where simple ingredients shine—including a “nikkei” and raw bar that features Latin oysters, Chilean ceviche, smoked tuna tiradito and seafood rolls. Standout mains include the grilled octopus and braised scallops in a coconut-ginger sauce. Beer and wine to drink. 1901 Columbia St., Little Italy, 619.564.8970
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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 national 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 Matt Devine, 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. 60); both are top-rated ocean-life learning centers.
IAN WHITE
Shops, Galleries & Fun Stops
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In La Jolla Village, the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (see p. 62) examines the boundaries of art created since 1950. Housed in the former home of Ellen Browning Scripps, the museum’s galleries boast an unparalleled ocean view, while Nancy Rubins’ stunning large-scale, nautical-inspired artwork adorns the museum’s west side. The Athenaeum Music & Arts Library (1008 Wall St.) features year-round 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,
Left to right: The serene La Jolla coastline; shopping in central La Jolla Village; ocean views from the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego.
the reserve was established to protect the nation’s rarest pine tree, the Pinus torreyan. One of the reserve’s trails leads directly to Torrey Pines State Beach, located on North Torrey Pines Road. The beach, which spans 4.5 miles from Del Mar to the cliffs at Torrey Pines Mesa, is a great place for swimming, boating and fishing. You can also catch these amazing ocean views from up high, via a hang glider or paraglider. The Torrey Pines Gliderport (2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Drive) offers flights (tandem, too) for novices and extreme adventure seekers. Adjacent Black’s Beach is a remote, twomile 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
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stunning ocean views. In 2008, the landmark became one of the only public courses to host a U.S. Open; it’s also the site of the PGA Tour’s 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 and fine dining. The shopping district revolves around Westfield UTC (see p. 63). This newly renovated outdoor mall features dozens of eateries, shops and department stores. For a map of these neighborhoods, see p. 71. For a list of restaurants in this area, see p. 55.
/ linked in
➺ If an afternoon of shopping at Westfield UTC has you parched, wet your whistle across the street at the Cohn Restaurant Group’s new beer-centric eatery: Draft Republic. The neighborhood pub-style restaurant boasts 36 beer taps with a focus on local breweries; plus four taps dedicated to house-made kegged cocktails and a full bar. Executive Chef Mike Camplin oversees a gastropub-style menu of American dishes such as the Big Plate O’ Pig—two sausages, smoked pulled pork, maple bourbon-bacon, sauerkraut and potato salad. Draft also features foosball, ping-pong, shuffleboard and billiards. 4282 Esplanade Court, UTC, 858.450.1400
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EXPLORING
Beach Cities
FROM CORONADO TO PACIFIC BEACH, WELCOME TO SOCAL’S MOST SCENIC SEASIDE NEIGHBORHOODS.
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San Diego’s beach cities epitomize quintessential SoCal; they’re diverse, laid-back and full of charm. Coronado is known for the historic 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. Coronado is an island of small-town quaintness amid San Diego’s big-city bustle. Well, it’s not really an island, though many locals call it that. Coronado is actually an isthmus, attached to the mainland at the southern end of Silver Strand State Beach. Though driving there via the iconic Coronado Bridge is always a thrill, it’s also great fun to travel by sea. The Coronado/San Diego Ferry leaves on the hour from downtown’s Broadway Pier between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. (619.234.4111), while San Diego Water Taxi offers on-call transportation around the bay from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (619.235.8294). Upon arrival, check out the shops at Coronado Ferry Landing (1201 First St.), then rent a 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.); Shorelines Gallery (918 Orange Ave.) for custom artwork, jewelry and furnishings; Coronado Taste of Oils (954 Orange Ave.) to sample dozens of flavors of 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 modern home décor pieces, antique accents and fun 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; Scottish Treasures (916 Orange Ave.) for unique accessories and gifts; 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 bars, 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 theater that hosts jazz, blues and pop headliners in warmer months. 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 endless 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, making for a nice refueling point. Nearby Point Loma is home to a small but charming array of restaurants and cafés, as
(FAR LEFT) JOE SCARNICI; (RIGHT AND OPPOSITE) EDWIN SANTIAGO
Coronado
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well as the Cabrillo National Monument, Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery and military installations. The Cabrillo National Monument (see p. 60) offers panoramic vistas stretching from San Diego to Mexico. There are also hiking trails, tidepools, a historic 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 three 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. 60) 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
Left to right: John Lennon mural on Garnet Avenue in Pacific Beach; Cabrillo National Monument’s historic lighthouse; dreamy views from Coronado’s shores.
gear, swimsuits and casual wear. Begin the 10-block shopping stroll where the two main streets intersect, then head east. (Note: These are long blocks.) First order of business: Find that perfect bikini. SunSplash (979 Garnet Ave.) can help, with stylish swimwear and casual beachwear in a wide array of sizes. 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.).
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Mission Bay Park
Mission Bay Park is a 4,000-acre gathering spot for locals and visitors to enjoy outdoor 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 paddleboarding. The west side of the bay is also home to several resort hotels and world-renowned SeaWorld (see p. 61). 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. 55.
/ calm waters
➺ A serene spot for a quiet stroll along San Diego Bay, Spanish Landing Park is a historical
landmark commemorating the 1769 meeting of the Gaspar DePortola and Father Junípero Serra expeditions. The park features pedestrian and bike paths along the waterfront, long grassy stretches, retro picnic pavilions, a playground, sandy beaches and the Callaway Carillon bell tower. And the views are astounding; relax on a bench and watch sailboats and paddleboarders meander by along the glistening calm waters of the Harbor Island marina area, with the skyline sparkling in the distance. 3900 N. Harbor Drive, Spanish Landing, 619.686.6200
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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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Hillcrest
The hub of Hillcrest, at the intersection of University and Fifth avenues, is always a buzzing, heavily trafficked scene throughout the day, with cars lined up in both directions and joggers, dog-walkers and coffee-sippers crowding the sidewalks. Fabulous shopping begins at University and First avenues and runs 12 blocks to Park Boulevard. Shop among 250 herbs, seasonings and gifts at Penzeys Spices (1274 University Ave.); retro urban footwear at Mint (525 University Ave.); and hip men’s fashions and home accents at House Boi (1435 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 outof-print and rare tomes. By night, Hillcrest 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 quaint University Heights, home to ethnic eateries and good shopping at places like Frock You (4121 Park Blvd.), a clothing store whose helpful staff knows its stuff when it
comes to vintage fashion. University Heights also has an astonishing number of cafés for such a small neighborhood, each catering to a different clientele. 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, furnishings and antiques (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 historic theater, Observatory North Park, formerly 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 (3032 University Ave.) has trendy women’s clothing and accessories. After dark, North Park comes alive with dozens of bars, hipster clubs, eclectic 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, see page 69. For a list of restaurants in this area, please see page 55.
(FAR LEFT AND FAR RIGHT) BJARNE G. JENSEN; (SECOND FROM LEFT) AMY K. FELLOWS; BOTTOM RIGHT, TYLER BEACH
Uptown encompasses some of S.D.’s most diverse, artsy and eclectic neighborhoods—including Hillcrest, one of the county’s most progressive areas, as well as North Park, South Park, University Heights and Mission Hills, all of which are filled with Craftsman-style homes, trendy eateries and hipster boutiques.
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Left to right: Presidio Park; a snapshot of University Avenue in North Park; Fifth Avenue in Hillcrest.
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/ game on
➺ Inviting carnivores to get out of their comfort zone, S&M Sausage & Meat—with owner
Scott Slater and Chef Mark Younggren at the helm—is an urban eatery, bar and deli devoted to exotic sausages, house-made bacon and unusual game meats. On the sausage menu, choose a classic frankfurter or smoked Italian link; a “Next Level” infusion such as pineapple-Portuguese or Cajun-chicken-jalapeño; or an exotic sausage such as bison-chipotle or the kangaroo-Cajun link. S&M also offers an array of sandwiches, salads, charcuterie boards and small bites; plus craft brews and cocktails at Swine Bar. 4130 Park Blvd., University Heights, 619.344.2177
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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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Del Mar
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 mid-July to early September (then returns for the month of November), but fun events are held at the Del Mar Fairgrounds year-round. Jimmy Durante Boulevard—named for the famous entertainer who lived in Del Mar— paves the way from the track to the heart of the village. The intersection of Camino Del Mar and 15th Street forms Del Mar’s center. The Del Mar Plaza (see p. 63) has scenic fountains and sweeping ocean views, plus upscale shops like clothing boutiques Gerhard 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.
More great shopping is a short drive away. East of the fairgrounds, off I-5 on Via de la Valle, is the recently expanded 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, walk to Seagrove Park (Coast Boulevard at 15th Street) to enjoy a brilliant sunset. From the hush of the surf you can almost hear the echo of Bing Crosby, singing the famous jingle he wrote in honor of the celebrated track: Where the turf meets the surf, down at old Del Mar ...
Solana Beach
Solana Beach is home to some of the most chic 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 halfcylinder), 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 towards 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 colorsplashed 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. 65), 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.
(FROM LEFT) IAN WHITE, LIMELIFE PHOTOGRAPHY, BJARNE G. JENSEN
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.
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As you continue north approaching downtown Encinitas, you’ll see a unique silhouette among the palm trees. The Self-Realization Fellowship Retreat and Ashram Center (215 K St.), with its lotus blossom–shaped towers, dates back to 1937. A portion of the grounds is open and free to the public. A stroll through the lush, cliffside gardens offers views of surfers at nearby Swami’s Beach (1298 S. Coast Hwy. 101), a popular break for longboarders. Stock up on gear and surfboards at Hansen’s Surf Shop (1105 S. Coast Hwy. 101). Up the road, The Lumberyard’s two dozen or so shops include stylish clothier Reign & Clover, modern home-and-garden store Grounded and Chuao Chocolatier, whose gourmet sweets are 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 historic 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
Left to right: Views from the Self-Realization Fellowship Retreat; Swami’s Cafe; Ocean House in Carlsbad Village.
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 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 Fairen Del (2940 State St.), with an assortment of fine leather goods, shoes, handbags, jewelry and other accessories.
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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 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 Wellbeing. Two miles south of La Costa is The Forum Carlsbad (see p. 63), an outdoor, Spanish-style mall. For a map of these neighborhoods, see p. 71. For information about restaurants in this area, please see p. 55.
/ curtain call
It’s regional theater at its best at North Coast Repertory Theatre, one of San Diego’s top performing arts organizations. Known for its exceptional artistic quality and intimate setting in its 194-seat theater, North Coast Rep showcases diverse productions year-round. Spring highlights include Chapter Two, a touching play based on events from playwright Neil Simon’s life, running through March 22; Unnecessary Farce, a fast-paced adventure involving an embezzling mayor, undercover cops and hit men, April 15-May 10; and Harold Pinter’s Betrayal, a play about a tricky love triangle, June 3-28. 987 Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach, 858.481.1055
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EXPLORING
Old Town
SAN DIEGO CELEBRATES ITS MEXICAN AND SPANISH COLONIAL HISTORY.
➺No trip to San Diego is complete without a stop at historic Old Town, known as the “birthplace of Living History & Culture
On the hilltop overlooking Old Town is the site where, in 1769, Padre Junípero Serra established Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá. In 1774, Serra’s mission was moved to a location 6 miles east, but a colony of residents remained there, and the area became known as California’s first permanent European settlement. Today, the Junípero Serra Museum (2727 Presidio Drive) stands on that very same hill, overlooking the festive, historic neighborhood now called Old Town San Diego. Old Town State Historic Park, a pedestrian-only area spanning six blocks, is home to more than a dozen of San Diego’s earliest buildings—some original, others reproductions—including a general store, Wells Fargo Bank, adobe homes and the first office of the San Diego Union, the city’s oldest newspaper. Stop in at Rust General Store for some oldtimey candies before checking out Casa de Estudillo, the 1825 home of Spanish aristocrat Don José Antonio de Estudillo. Other historical structures include the recently renovated Cosmopolitan Hotel and Seeley Stable Museum, a reconstruction of the 1850s-era stagecoach stop that now houses a collection of vintage carriages. Park aides lead tours of the sites, leaving from the Old Town Visitors Center in the Robinson Rose building, located on the plaza (619.220.5422).
Adjacent to the plaza, Fiesta de Reyes (2754 Calhoun St.) is filled with restaurants and shops that celebrate Mexican and American history; don’t miss the Urban Seed, which not only has a huge selection of heritage vegetable seeds, but also French antiques and elegant home décor pieces. Up the hill at Harney and Juan streets you’ll find the Mormon Battalion, which tells the story of the church military unit that came west to help with the Mexican-American War, and Heritage Park, the site of seven restored Victorian buildings that were moved to this site from downtown San Diego after World War II to escape demolition due to modern development. The park also houses Southern California’s first synagogue, Temple Beth Israel, built in 1889. More historical sites line San Diego Avenue, which leads out of Old Town State Park to the south. Construction on the still-active Church of the Immaculate Conception began in 1868 in an effort to replace the existing adobe structure with brick, but was not completed for 50 years. And visit the reportedly haunted Whaley House, built in 1857, if you dare. Farther up San Diego Avenue, behind an adobe wall, is El Campo Santo, the city’s first cemetery, established in 1850, and the San Diego Sheriff’s Museum and Educational Center (2384 San Diego Ave.), built 100 feet from where San Diego’s original cobblestone
jail once stood. It features exhibits displaying weapons and equipment used by the county’s 28 sheriffs over the past 150 years. The Casa del Rey Moro Museum (2471 Congress St.) is a treasure of African world history, with a focus on the Afro-Spanish, Afro-Mexican and African-American heritage in Old Town and California. Afterward, take in a show at the Old Town Theatre (4040 Twiggs St.), home to the Cygnet Theatre Company.
Shopping
Old Town’s many shops offer everything from authentic goods to touristy tchotchkes. You can browse the large collection of Mexican folk art at Miranda’s Courtyard (2548 Congress St.), or shop for men’s, women’s and children’s surf-inspired beachwear, shoes and eyewear at Old Town Surf Co. (2515 San Diego Ave.). Next door, Gourmet Café has an array of chocolate truffles and other sweets. On the back side of the park, Taylor Street is home to Bazaar del Mundo (4133 Taylor St.), a two-story emporium of international folk arts, fashion, jewelry and home décor. Wind down your shopping day at the Café Coyote Esplanade (2461 San Diego Ave.), home to such quaint shops as South American Imports and Old Town Candy Store. For a map of this neighborhood, see page 70. For a list of restaurants in this area, see page 55.
(FAR LEFT) EDWIN SANTIAGO; (RIGHT AND OPPOSITE) ASHOK SINHA; (BOTTOM RIGHT) JOE MABEL.
California.” Its charming streets are lined with dozens of iconic landmarks, museums, colorful shops and authentic Mexican restaurants—home to the city’s best handmade tortillas and tastiest margaritas.
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Left to right: Mexican handbags; Old Town’s charming retail fronts; Immaculate Conception Church.
G R E AT F I N D
➺
/ tales of tequila
Tequila bottles line the walls at El Agave, Old Town’s upscale Mexican eatery known for its in-house tequila museum. Dine surrounded by striking glass bottles in its romantic main dining room, which is warmed by wood accents and brick walls; or out on the covered balcony. Focusing on Hispanic-Mexican gastronomy, the restaurant and tequileria serves up authentic seafood and meat dishes, plus moles, salads, taquitos and empanadas. Try the signature Filete Agave—filet mignon filled with goat cheese and served with dark tequila sauce. As for the tequila, El Agave houses 2,000 selections. 2304 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.220.0692
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EXPLORING
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.
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.
Arts & Culture
Performing arts abound in the park. The Old Globe Theatre presents superior theatrical talent in world-renowned productions; spring features include classic Chinese fable The White Snake (March 21-April 26), and comedy Buyer & Cellar (April 4-May 3) about an outof-work actor who works for Barbra Streisand. See pp. 56-58 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 Seeing is Believing?—a gallery that explores the origins of photography and its impact on how we view the world around us and ourselves (through June 30). 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 historic 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) EDWIN SANTIAGO, LIMELIFE PHOTOGRAPHY, ASHOK SINHA; (BOTTOM RIGHT) COURTESY SAN DIEGO NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM
Balboa Park
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Left to right: Museum of Man and Old Globe Theatre; a panda at the San Diego Zoo; Balboa Park’s charming walkways.
G R E AT F I N D
/ museum marvel
➺The Museum of Photographic Arts (MOPA) has unveiled its leading exhibition for Balboa
Park’s centennial celebration: 7 Billion Others. Making its U.S. premiere at MOPA, the global multimedia exhibit is a technology-driven, experiential attempt to meet, connect and unite the planet’s 7 billion inhabitants. During a 30-week stretch, 6,000 video interviews, each asking 45 questions, were conducted across 84 countries and spanning more than 50 languages—all with the goal of capturing voices and perspectives representative of the planet’s billions of human beings. Through Sept. 13, 2015, 1649 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.238.7559, mopa.org
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fun
San Diego’s only Giant Dome Theater 100+ Hands-On Science Exhibits
Kid City—just for children 5 and under
whole for the
family
(619) 238-1233 www.rhfleet.org
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. 61), 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
Open every day with free parking. Located in beautiful Balboa Park.
San Diego Museum of Man
INSTRUMENTS OF
TORTURE Limited Engagement
1350 El Prado, Balboa Park, San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 239-2001 | www.museumofman.org
The park’s major attraction is, of course, the San Diego Zoo (see p. 61), 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 pool, velodrome, archery range and bocce court. Check in here for information on the many hike and bike trails through Florida Canyon, a popular workout spot for joggers. The nearby Balboa Tennis Club is open to the public, with 25 courts and a full-service pro shop, plus lessons and clinics. The dapper, white-clad members of the San Diego Lawn Bowling Club, which has been around for more than 75 years, play seven days a week near the corner of Sixth Avenue and Laurel Street. Visitors are welcome to join the fun and get a free lesson. There are also a few leash-free dog parks here, including one at Balboa Drive and El Prado, south of the Cabrillo Bridge, and another at Morley Field, northwest of the tennis courts. The park is among the most dog-friendly public recreational properties of its kind in the world. Expect to see dozens both on and off leash at every turn.
Dining
Several casual snack bars and coffee carts can be found throughout the park and inside certain museums. For a sit-down experience, try The Prado, whose lively, colorful interior and charming garden patio—not to mention 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.
NEW SPECIAL EXHIBITION
ONLY AT THE SAN DIEGO AIR & SPACE MUSEUM
sandiegoairandspace.org • 619.234.8291
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the guide SPRING 2015
COURTESY DOUBLE STANDARD
DINING
Double Talk
Step into an airy library-meets-kitchenette at Double Standard, headed by owner David Mainiero and Chef Chris Gentile. The Cali-Italian menu features pizza, pasta, bruschetta, salads and hearty mains such as braised short ribs and wood oven-roasted filet. Or choose from an array of refined small plates that include roasted bone marrow and Berkshire pork belly. The dÊcor is colorful and cute; a center bar offering a boutique beer and wine list divides the space—with book-lined shelves and chartreuse leather booths on one side; a communal table, outward-facing stools and more seating on the other side; and a grass sidewalk patio. 695 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.269.9676
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Dining SPOTLIGHT
American BANKERS HILL BAR AND RESTAURANT Mismatched antique chairs decorate this casual spot with an urbanindustrial vibe. A seasonal menu includes pork tacos and an excellent burger. D (nightly). 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. $$$$ Map O16 BROCKTON VILLA An 1894 cottage with a spectacular ocean view. Try the Coast Toast, a French toast soufflé from the breakfast menu. B, L, D (daily). 1235 Coast Blvd., La Jolla, 858.454.7393. $$ Map W19
La Jolla Haven Longtime La Jolla dining destination Roppongi Restaurant & Sushi Bar is new again with a revamped lineup of culinary delights and new Executive Chef Alfie Szeprethy. The Asian-fusion menu remains loaded with the usual Pacific Rim-style tapas and sushi selects, yet now includes new favorites. To start, try the beef Korean short ribs with Korean barbecue sauce, kimchi and rice (pictured); or the savory lamb kofta skewers with tzatziki sauce and naan bread. For a main, the crab dynamite-crusted seasonal fish served atop a Furikake rice cake with choi sum and sesame beaure blanc is heavenly. Pair with a glass of wine or expertly crafted cocktail. We suggest dining on the covered and heated patio. 875 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.551.5252
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. $$$ Map M15 CHART HOUSE Seafood and steakhouse has picturesque coastline location with floor-to-ceiling windows. Indulge in hot chocolate lava cake for dessert. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 2588 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, 760.436.4044. $$$ Map W22 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. $$ Map Q16 FLORENT RESTAURANT & LOUNGE Housed in the original “Old City Hall” building, Florent features upscale, yet playful, American comfort food. Start with the crispy Brussels sprouts and beef sliders; for entreés try the stuffed Jidori chicken and grilled New York strip steak. Plus, updated classic cocktails and craft brews. Br, D (daily). 672 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.595.0123. $$ 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. $$$ Map W19 HORNBLOWER Celebrate a special occasion or surprise your sweetheart with a three-hour dinner cruise aboard a luxury yacht along San Diego’s stunning waterfront. Enjoy a three-course meal, chilled Champagne and dancing. D (nightly). 970 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.686.8715. $$ Map Q14
Guidelines
Restaurants are listed by city on page 55. 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............................... 42 Breakfast................................44 California Cuisine...............44 Desserts.................................46 Eclectic/Fusion....................46 French.....................................46 International..........................47
Italian........................................47 Japanese................................ 49 Mexican/Southwestern...50 Seafood............................... 50 Steak......................................52 Thai........................................52 Wine Bars............................53
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. $$ Map K9 THE MED La Valencia’s charming, Mediterranean-villastyle eatery features locally sourced, sustainable dishes such as fried poussin and an ocean-view terrace. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). 1132 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.551.3741. $$ 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. $$$ Map X22 SOLACE & THE MOONLIGHT LOUNGE The second of three eateries in Chef Matt Gordon’s upscale-comfortfood empire, this North County favorite focuses on seafood. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 25 East E St., Encinitas, 760.753.2433. $$$ Map W22 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. $$ Map M16 TRACTOR ROOM This dimly lit spot is decked out in hunting-lodge chic, with a game-heavy menu that includes crispy elk ravioli and venison meatloaf, plus craft cocktails. (Oh, and the corn bread that arrives on the side is enough to satisfy six people.) D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 3687 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.543.1007. $$$ Map N16 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. $$ Map N16
Got a sweet tooth that needs satisfying? Try one of the county’s popular dessert outposts—including D Bar San Diego and Extraordinary Desserts—listed on p. 46.
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Dining UNION KITCHEN & TAP Beer, craft cocktails, boutique wines and tavern-style grub are all on the menu. Choose from 20 rotating taps of mostly local brews to wash down a bison burger or sweet potato poutine. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1108 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.230.2337, Map V22; 333 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.795.9463. $$ 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. $$$ Map N17
Breakfast BEACH GRASS CAFÉ A breezy and casually chic eatery by the beach serves up a health-conscious menu of granola, flapjacks, salads and more. B, L, D (daily). 159 S. Highway 101, Solana Beach, 858.509.0632. $$ 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 garden patio, the Cottage is hugely popular 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. $$ Map N16 THE MISSION Acclaimed mini-chain is known for pancakes, French toast, smoothies, breakfast burritos and health-conscious Latin dishes. B, L (daily). 3795 Mission Blvd., Mission Beach, 858.488.9060, Map I8; 2801 University Ave., North Park, 619.220.8992, Map J12; 1250 J St., East Village, 619.232.7662. $ Map Q17 RICHARD WALKER’S PANCAKE HOUSE Popular casual spot with a huge selection of mouthwatering flapjacks and other breakfast and lunch fare. Favorites include the baked apple pancake. B, L (daily). 520 Front St., downtown, 619.231.7777, Map Q15; 909 Prospect St. La Jolla, 858.459.8800. $ Map W19 SNOOZE, AN A.M. EATERY This bright, energetic joint features breakfast and brunch faves like eggs Benedict, pancakes, French toast, cocktails, a fun coffee menu and a breakfast pot pie. B, L (daily). 3940 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.500.3344, Map N16; 3435 Del Mar Heights Road, Del Mar, 858.703.5300. $$ 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. $$$$ Map L10
barleymash
BLUEFIRE GRILL Omni La Costa Resort’s stylish destination dining spot serves coastal delicacies and seasonal vegetables. Elegant setting with indoor waterfall and outdoor fire pits. D (Tu-Sa). 2100 Costa del Mar Road, Carlsbad, 760.929.6306. $$$ Map T22
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Dining 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. $$ Map J8 THE FLYING PIG PUB AND KITCHEN This foodieapproved restaurant in Oceanside features farm-totable cuisine focused on Cali-infused American dishes. Think handmade pasta, organic salads and Duroc pork belly. 626 S. Tremont St., Oceanside, 760.453.2940. $$$ Map S22 GEORGE’S AT THE COVE La Jolla institution comprises three levels (from elegant to casual) of ocean views. Chef Trey Foshee creates seafood, steak and regional cuisine. Mid-level bar is a great happy hour spot. L, D (daily). 1250 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.4244. $$$$ Map W19 JRDN Hip restaurant and bar at Tower 23 hotel has steak and seafood dishes, plus a full raw bar and happy hour specials. Patio offers boardwalk and ocean views, plus fun people-watching. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 723 Felspar St., Pacific Beach, 858.270.5736. $$$ Map H7
Authentic New York style Pizzas Cooked In Traditional Open-Flame Ovens
JUNIPER & IVY Top Chef star Richard Blais oversees the modernist 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. 2228 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.269.9036. $$$ Map P15 KITCHEN 1540 Expect simple, seasonal comfort dishes such as chicken ‘n’ dumplings, shrimp ‘n’ grits, duck breast, escargot tortellini and fried-green tomatoes at this chic eatery at L’Auberge Del Mar. Ask for a table on the oceanview terrace. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.793.6460. $$$$ Map X22 LEROY’S KITCHEN & LOUNGE Recognized for its farm-to-table fare, Leroy’s is a comfortably hip locals’ hangout. Executive Chef JC Colon offers a variety of unique seafood, meat and pasta dishes. Favorites include roasted rainbow trout and duck pot pie. L (M-F); D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su). 1015 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.6087. $$ Map L11 MARKET RESTAURANT + BAR Chef Carl Schroeder crafts modern cuisine using local produce, handmade cheeses and locally raised meat. Highlights include the bleu cheese soufflé, market veggie tasting and Meyer lemon-cream crepes. D (nightly). 3702 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.523.0007. $$$$ Map X22
Open daily for lunch and dinner Until 10 pm Sun - Thur Until 11 pm Fri - Sat
PREPKITCHEN LITTLE ITALY Its stylish second-story locale makes for a fabulous alternative to the Italian eateries in the area. Daily specials include the farmers market flatbread and local halibut as the fresh catch. 1660 India St., Little Italy, 619.398.8383. $$$ Map P15
FREE DELIVERY
(with minimum order) La Jolla, Pacific Beach, UTC, & Sorrento Valley
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), Br (Su). 21+. 3175 India St., Midtown, 619.358.9766. $$ Map O15
La Jolla 811 Prospect Street (858) 729-9988 www.amicis.com
WAYPOINT PUBLIC This laid-back gastropub has a little something for everyone: 100 international bottled beers; a custom 30-tap system focused on West Coast craft brews; and comfort dishes that range from slow-cooked beef short ribs to Po’ Boy’s Tacos stuffed with fried oysters, fries and jalapeño slaw. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 3794 30th St., North Park, 619.255.8778. $$ 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. $$$ Map W19
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Dining Desserts BAKE SALE BAKERY Satisfy your sweet tooth at this charming café, where all of the breakfast pastries, cookies and other tempting treats—including morning rolls and “Pop Tarts”—are made by scratch daily. For lunch, choose from more savory fare like salads and sandwiches made on homemade bread and croissants. B, L (M-Sa). 815 F St., East Village, 619.515.2224. $ Map Q16 D BAR SAN DIEGO This stylish full-service restaurant serves cocktails, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch, but save plenty of room for dessert. Known for its pastries and unique creations, D Bar’s dessert menu is exceptional; try the molten cake with a truffle center and the Faux Foster Banana Imposter. 3930 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.299.3227. $$ 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. $$ Map O16 MICHELE COULON DESSERTIER A longtime favorite among La Jolla locals, the renowned Michele Coulon whips up tortes, pies, cakes, confections, homemade jams, breads and quiches using local organic products—all made from scratch. Open M-Sa. 7556-D Fay Ave., La Jolla, 858.456.5098. $ Map W19
Eclectic/Fusion BALI HAI Tiki oasis has a Polynesian menu, featuring Korean barbecued ribs and wok-fried whole striped bass, plus fabulous bay views and stiff mai tais. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). 2230 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.222.1181. $$$ Map K9
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SEAFOOD GRILL
C A S U A L , M O D E R AT E LY P R I C E D
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LU N C H , D I N N E R , H A P P Y H O U R
come in
get hooked
Featuring seafood classics, salads, steak, pasta dishes, and more! Full bar, patio dining, Kids LiveWell menu, and vegetarian and gluten-free options
O N G L O R I E T TA B AY, C O R O N A D O NEXT TO THE HOTEL DEL CORONADO 1 7 0 1 S T R A N D W AY · 6 1 9 4 3 5 0 1 5 5 · B L U E W AT E R G R I L L . C O M
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. D (nightly). 875 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.551.5252. $$$ Map W19
French ADDISON Chef William Bradley creates deliriously tasty, elegant dishes from local ingredients with French influences at this ultra-fine-dining restaurant at The Grand Del Mar. D (Tu-Sa). 5200 Grand Del Mar Way, Del Mar, 858.314.1900. $$$$ Map X22 BIJOU FRENCH BISTRO From the creators of Addison, this stylish French bistro in the heart of La Jolla Village serves authentic fare that shines with seasonal ingredients. The lobster gratin and veal paillard are outstanding, as is the global wine list. D (nightly). 1205 Prospect Street, La Jolla, 858.750.3695. $$$ Map W19 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. $$$ Map I12 CAFÉ CHLOE Locals’ fave offers afternoon “urban tea” (booking required) and bistro cuisine like smoked trout salad, cheese plates and moules frites in a casually elegant setting, complete with patio. B, L, D (daily). 721 Ninth Ave., East Village, 619.232.3242. $$ Map Q17 CAFÉ LA RUE This casual bistro and bar inside La Valencia Hotel serves up modern twists on classic European cuisine, including pork belly poutine, duck confit and lamb shank pot pie. Full bar features beer, wine and specialty cocktails. B, L, D (daily). 1132 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.0771. $$$ Map W19
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Dining MARINE ROOM Outstanding nouveau French food such as macadamia-pesto-crusted salmon and artisan cheeses by Chef Bernard Guillas in an unparalleled oceanfront location. D (nightly). 2000 Spindrift Drive, La Jolla, 858.459.7222. $$$$ Map W20 MILLE FLEURS This romantic, fine-dining restaurant is a classic date spot. The cuisine is creative, updated French/ California (think: escargot and whole Dover sole meunière). L (Tu–F), D (nightly). 6009 Paseo Delicias, Rancho Santa Fe, 858.756.3085. $$$$ Map W23 PAMPLEMOUSSE GRILLE Chef Jeffrey Strauss brings an imaginative flair to his country French–influenced American menu in a quirky, casually elegant setting near the racetrack. L (F), D (nightly). 514 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.792.9090. $$$$ Map W22
ONE BITE WILL HAVE YOU HOOKED Enjoy fresh seafood and sushi sourced daily plus outdoor and indoor dining options on the water. Visit anytime Monday thru Thursday and take $1 off each sushi roll ordered. Available for a limited time only. Visit sallyssandiego.com for a full menu.
THE SMOKING GOAT This cozy neighborhood bistro serves up French and American cuisine with a countryside flair. Expect such dishes as the braised prime short ribs and stuffed banderra quail. D (Tu-Su). 3408 30th St., North Park, 619.955.5295. $$$ Map J12
International BERTA’S LATIN AMERICAN Latin American specialties can be sampled via tapas, seafood and main dishes such as 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. $$$ Map H8 MONSOON Authentic Northern Indian cuisine in a chic environment. Bounteous lunch buffet; entrées include Bangalore masala and lamb curry. L, D (daily). 729 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.234.5555. $$$ Map Q16 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
Located downtown behind Grand Hyatt Open 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM Sunday thru Thursday 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM Friday & Saturday Park free at Grand Hyatt for 3 hours with validation 1 Market Place, San Diego, CA 92101 619 358 6740 Offer expires May 28th, 2015. Cannot be combined with other promotions. Available Monday through Thursday only. Substitutions not permitted.
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. $$ Map M18
Italian AMICI’S EAST COAST PIZZERIA Traditional New Yorkstyle thin-crust pizzas are served fresh out of the brick oven here; plus seasonal salads and pasta dishes. Choose a classic or create your own pie. L, D (daily). 811 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.729.9988. $$ Map W19
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Dining 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. $$ Map J12
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PRIME STEAKS. LEGENDARY SERVICE. Fine Wine • Private Dining • Exceptional Menu
BENCOTTO This mod spot in the Q building earns raves for simple but well-executed create-your-own pasta dishes and other Italian specialities. L, D (Tu-Su). 750 W. Fir St., Little Italy, 619.450.4786. $$$ Map P15 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 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. $$$ Map O16 CUCINA ENOTECA Located in the Flower Hill Promenade, this sister location of Cucina Urbana features a rooftop patio and a Cali-Italian menu packed with organic, sustainable antipasti, salads, pastas (even gluten-free) and artisanal pizzas; plus a retail wine shop. L (Tu-Su), D (nightly). 2730 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.704.4500. $$$ Map X22 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. $$$ Map X22 IL FORNAIO Authentic Italian recipes including excellent pasta, pizza and regional specialties paired with handmade breads. Coronado location has great bay views of the downtown skyline. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1555 Camino Del Mar #301, Del Mar, 858.755.8876, Map X22; 1333 First St., Coronado, 619.437.4911. $$$ Map L10 ISOLA PIZZA BAR Casually elegant restaurant and bar featuring a romantic back patio, sidewalk patio and handtossed pizzas baked in a stone wood-burning oven; plus pastas, antipasti and boutique wines. L, D (Tu-Su). 1526 India St., Little Italy, 619.255.4230. $$$ Map P15
The Harbor Club • 285 J Street • 619-696-3369 mortons.com Stacked_WherMag_Ad:Layout 1 1/23/13/ sandiego 11:58 AM Page 1
THE NATIONAL RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION
JACK & GIULIO’S Known for its scampi, spaghetti and meatballs, and other traditional dishes, this Old Town Italian spot is a local favorite. Excellent wines for pairing. D (nightly). 2391 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.294.2074. $$$ 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 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. $$$ Map V20 PO PAZZO Italian for “a little crazy,” the menu at this Little Italy spot goes way beyond pasta, to steaks, seafood, veal and more. L, D (daily). 1917 India St., Little Italy, 619.238.1917. $$$ Map P15
Fashion Valley Next To Valet 7007 Friars Rd, San Diego, CA 92108, 619-225-7900
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Dining 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 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. $$$$ Map U22 VIGILUCCI’S RISTORANTE Italian favorites such as spaghetti alla carbonara, chicken piccata and antipasti; plus Prime steaks, seafood, veal, salads, dessert and a wellrounded wine list—all coupled with elegant décor, cozy piano bar and ocean views. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 1300 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.522.0946, Map L10; 2943 State St., Carlsbad, 760.434.2500. $$$ Map T22
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. $$$ Map O16 BLUE OCEAN ROBATA & SUSHI BAR High-style design meets modern Japanese cuisine. Yakitori-skewered meats, seafood and veggies are charcoal-fired on a robata grill; plus sushi and Japanese whiskey. L, D (daily). 2958 Madison St., Carlsbad, 760.434.4959. $$$ Map T22
Fresh Fish. Flown in Daily.
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, Suite 336, Fashion Valley, 619.291.7711. $$ Map M16
Sleek and sophisticated, The Oceanaire provides the perfect setting to enjoy an unrivaled atmosphere where you will indulge in tantalizing chef creations, exceptional wines and exquisite desserts.
CAFÉ JAPENGO Bustling atmosphere attracts a hip after-work crowd to this upscale spot specializing in artistic sushi and cocktails. L (M–F), D (nightly). 8960 University Center Lane, La Jolla/Golden Triangle, 858.450.3355. $$$ Map T21 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. $$ Map S22 NOBU After conquering L.A., New York, Miami, London and Vegas, celeb Chef Nobu Matsuhisa brings his brand to the Hard Rock Hotel. The miso black cod is a house specialty. D (nightly). 207 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.814.4124. $$$$ Map Q16 SHINO SUSHI + KAPPO A simple, modest sushi nook focusing on authentic, superior-quality sushi versus fussy creations. Try the seared hirame with walnuts, fried garlic and citrus; as well as the daily specialty rolls. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Su). 838 W. Ash St., Little Italy, 619.255.2527. $$$ Map P16 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. $$$ Map Q16
Gaslamp District • 400 J Street • (619) 858-2277 theoceanaire.com • Reserve your table today.
UNDERBELLY Build your own noodle creations from toppings such as bacon-wrapped mushrooms, beef brisket and kimchi octopus—and add a side of steamed pork buns—at this hip, casual ramen bar. L, D (daily). 750 Fir St., Little Italy, 619.269.4626, Map P15; 3000 Upas St., North Park, 619. 487.9909. $$ Map J12
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Dining 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. $$$ Map W22
Mexican/Southwestern EL AGAVE Upscale Mexico City-style cuisine with exotic dishes like cuitlacoche tlacoyo on blue corn tortillas; plus 2,000 tequilas available to sample. L, D (daily). 2304 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.220.0692, Map M14 ALFONSO’S A La Jolla institution since 1971, Alfonso’s offers great people-watching from the sidewalk terrace. Family recipes include the carne asada. L, D (daily). 1251 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.2232. $$ Map V19 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. $$ Map O16 THE BLIND BURRO Sustainable, Mexican street food with a modern edge, served in an urban-industrial cantina with rustic touches. Don’t miss the mole chicken tacos and the zesty Baja ceviche. L, D (daily). 639 J St., East Village, 619.795.7880. $$ Map Q16 CAFÉ COYOTE South-of-the-border classics in a lively setting right 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. $$ Map M14 CANDELAS Find tequila prawns flambé over ahi tuna and Mexico City-inspired dishes at this romantic nouvelle Mexican spot. D (nightly) at both locations; Br (Su), L (M-F) in Coronado only. 416 Third Ave., downtown, 619.702.4455, Map R16; 1201 First St., #115, Coronado, 619.435.4900. $$$ Map L10
Live Music. Craft Cocktails. Great Food. ODE TO NASHVILLE
NOT YOUR GRANDMA’S GRAPEFRUIT
Tennessee Whiskey, Peach Liqueur, Fresh Lemon, Sliced Peaches
Gin, Elderflower Liqueur, Bitters, Pink Grapefruit, House Made Simple Syrup, Grapefruit Zest
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 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
401 G Street, Gaslamp | tinroofsandiego.com @tinroofsandiego
@tinroofsandiego
/tinroofsandiego
“The Pinnacle of Pancakes” -San Diego Magazine
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. $$ Map W19
Seafood BLUE POINT COASTAL CUISINE Enjoy Californiastyle seafood and fresh oysters, as well as blue crab and white truffle mac ‘n’ cheese. Hip martini bar with plenty of specialty cocktails and decadent desserts, too. D (nightly). 565 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.6623. $$$$ Map Q16
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 6:30 AM – 2:30 PM 520 Front Street Downtown San Diego (just South of Market) 619-231-7777
909 Prospect Street La Jolla (between Girard and Fay) 858-459-8800
richardwalkers.com
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Dining
Swim Against The Tide Blue Ocean Robata
BLUEWATER BOATHOUSE SEAFOOD GRILL Located right over the water in the historic former boathouse of the Hotel Del Coronado, this recently opened, classic fish house features fresh, sustainable seafood, house-made chowders and an oyster bar serving raw oysters and clams on the half shell. L, D (daily). 1701 Strand Way, Coronado, 619.435.0155. $$ Map L10
and Sushi Bar 2958 Madison Street Carlsbad, CA 92008 (760) 434-4959 www.blueoceanrobatasushi.com
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. $$ Map L10 EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD Find seafood classics like shrimp cocktail, ahi tartare and lobster bisque, plus 28-day-aged Prime center-cut steaks. The La Jolla locale boasts beautiful views of the La Jolla Cove and coastline; while the new downtown flagship features live jazz nightly. D (nightly). 1270 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.459.5500, Map W19; 789 W. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.615.0281. $$$$ Map Q15 FISH 101 Small, casual eatery serves up sustainable, seasonal catches and shellfish. Mains range from both grilled and fried fish plates to sandwiches to an Angus-beef burger. Plus salads, daily oyster selection and, for dessert, soft-serve ice cream. L, D (Tu-Su). 1468 N. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.943.6221. $$ Map V22 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
Let The Sea Set You Free
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. $$$ Map P15 ISLAND PRIME Seafood, steak, salads, cocktails and one of the city’s best views looking back at the skyline. Adjacent C Level Lounge on the spacious deck is popular with the after-work crowd. L, D (daily). 880 Harbor Island Drive, Harbor Island, 619.298.6802. $$$ Map J10
Blue Smoke Sushi Lounge (Located at Fashion Valley Mall) 7007 Friars Road San Diego, CA 92108
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. $$$ Map Q16
(619) 291-7711 www.bluesmokesushi.com
THE OCEANAIRE SEAFOOD ROOM Retro oceanliner design features a bustling cocktail scene with oyster bar. (Try a dirty vodka martini with a selection of oysters on the half shell.) Market-fresh seafood and regionally inspired dishes star on the daily-changing menu. D (nightly). 400 J St., Gaslamp, 619.858.2277. $$$ 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. $$$ Map Q16
RANCHO BERNARDO
OCEANSIDE & SAN MARCOS
PACIFIC COAST GRILL Reopened as a new restaurant plopped literally right on the beach in Cardiff, Pacific Coast Grill epitomizes casual-chic coastal dining. Locals love the lobster tacos, and the view is the stuff of California dreams. 2526 Coast Hwy. 101, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, 760.479.0721. $$$ Map V22
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Dining 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. $$$ Map X22 POSEIDON RESTAURANT Its beachfront deck offers unrivaled views. Dinner entrées such as ginger-pesto day boat scallops make up the contemporary, eclectic menu. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1670 Coast Blvd., Del Mar, 858.755.9345. $$$ 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. $$$ Map Q15
Steak DONOVAN’S STEAK & CHOP HOUSE The power crowd noshes on huge portions of prime steaks, chops and seafood paired with award-winning wine in a sophisticated atmosphere. D (nightly; M-Sa at La Jolla). 1250 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.450.6666, Map T21; 570 K St., Gaslamp, 619.237.9700. $$$ 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. $$$ Map Q16 MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE USDA Prime-aged beef, seafood, an excellent wine list, cocktails, decadent desserts, crisp white linens and great service at the edge of the historic Gaslamp Quarter. D (nightly). 285 J St., downtown, 619.696.3369. $$$$ Map Q16 STAKE CHOPHOUSE & BAR Modern steakhouse with a luxe vibe features a wide variety of steaks—including rare cuts such as Wagyu and Kobe—as well as seafood; plus a 2,000-bottle glass wine cellar. D (nightly). 1309 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.522.0077. $$$ 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. $$$ Map T22
Thai LOTUS THAI Elegant bamboo décor and modern Thai cuisine at two locations—serving up sophisticated, authentic dishes honoring regional recipes from Bangkok, Chiang Mai and south Thailand. Specialties include Choo Chee pork chops and roasted half-duck curry. L (M-F), D (nightly). 3761 Sixth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.299.8272, Map N16; 906 Market St., East Village, 619.595.0115. $$ Map Q17
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Dining PLUMERIA VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT This casual Thai eatery features mock chicken and marinated tofu satay skewers. Dine under sparkling chandeliers surrounded by subtle floral décor. 4661 Park Blvd., University Heights, 619.269.9989. $$ Map M18 RAMA Traditional Thai in a stylish, exotic setting (check out the waterfall in the back room). Specialties include the Crying Tiger, with thinly sliced filet mignon. L (M-Sa), D (nightly). 327 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.501.8424. $$ 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. Quickservice 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 and spicy chili halibut. L (M–Sa), D (nightly). 7734 Girard Ave., La Jolla, 858.456.0466. $$ Map W19
The Restaurant That Never Sleeps
TASTE OF THAI Delicious Thai food in a charming space with a sidewalk patio fronting busy University Avenue. Try the Tom Yum soup and yellow curry with spicy fried rice, followed by the fried bananas with coconut ice for dessert. 527 University Ave., Hillcrest, 619.291.7525. $$ Map N16
Wine Bars
®
COUNTERPOINT Ultra-friendly neighborhood wine bar serves artisan 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. $$ Map Q18
Downtown San Diego’s Only Full-Service 24-Hour Restaurant
THE ROSE WINE PUB An earthy, restored 1927 building, constructed with the reclaimed redwood of a historic South Park home, this intimate neighborhood wine bar also offers craft beer, light bites and wine storage. 2219 30th St., South Park, 619.280.1815. $$ Map J12
$9.99 Lunch Specials: Mon – Fri /11 am – 4 pm Daily Happy Hour: 4 pm – 7 pm / Full Bar Available
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
828 6th Avenue (between E & F) (619) 702-8410 t www.Brians24.com
WINE STEALS Vino and bites (cheeses, pizzas and charcuterie) at good prices. Relaxed neighborhood vibe at all three locations. Open daily. 1953 San Elijo Ave., Cardiffby-the-Sea, 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
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SD DINING 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 weolive.com/la-jolla 858.551.8250
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 misoglazed 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 roppongiusa.com 858.551.5252
CAFÉ LA RUE Celebrating its one year anniversary on Prospect St. in La Jolla, this 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, glassenclosed 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, “The Appointment”–Sunday through Friday 4 p.m. 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 lavalencia.com 858.454.0771 SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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RESTAURANTS City Index Our superguide by area, with cross reference to listings by cuisine. GASLAMP QUARTER
CAFÉ LA RUE (French) ........................................................................... 46
BARLEYMASH (American) .................................................................... 42
THE COTTAGE (Breakfast).................................................................... 44
BEACH GRASS CAFÉ (Breakfast) .................................................... 44
BLUE POINT (Seafood) ........................................................................... 50
DONOVAN’S (Steak) .............................................................................. 52
BLUEFIRE GRILL (California Cuisine).................................................. 44
BRIAN’S 24 (Breakfast) ........................................................................... 44
EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD (Seafood) ..................................... 51
BLUE OCEAN ROBATA & SUSHI BAR (Japanese) ............... 49
CAFÉ SEVILLA (International) .............................................................. 47
FLEMING’S (Steak)................................................................................... 52
CHART HOUSE (American) .................................................................. 42
DICK’S LAST RESORT (American) ................................................... 42
GEORGE’S AT THE COVE (California Cuisine)............................ 45
CRAFTSMAN TAVERN (American) .................................................. 42
DONOVAN’S (Steak) .............................................................................. 52
HERRINGBONE (American) ................................................................. 42
FLEMING’S (Steak)................................................................................... 52 FLORENT RESTAURANT & LOUNGE (American) ................ 42 FOGO DE CHÃO (Steak) ..................................................................... 52
MARINE ROOM (French)...................................................................... 47 THE MED (American) ............................................................................... 42
NORTH COASTAL
FISH 101 (Seafood).................................................................................... 51 THE FISH MARKET (Seafood) ............................................................ 51 THE FLYING PIG (California Cuisine) ................................................. 45 HARNEY SUSHI (Japanese) .................................................................. 49
MICHELE COULON (Desserts).......................................................... 46
PACIFIC COAST GRILL (Seafood) .................................................... 51
MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S (Seafood) ..................................... 51
PIATTI (Italian).............................................................................................. 48
PAMPLEMOUSSE GRILLE (French) ................................................ 47
MONSOON (International) ................................................................... 47
PUESTO (Mexican)..................................................................................... 50
EL Q’ERO (International) ......................................................................... 47
NOBU (Japanese) ........................................................................................ 49
RICHARD WALKER’S PANCAKE HOUSE (Breakfast) ........ 44
SOLACE (American) .................................................................................. 42
THE OCEANAIRE (Seafood) ................................................................ 51
ROPPONGI (Eclectic/Fusion) ................................................................. 46
TRATTORIA I TRULLI (Italian) ............................................................ 49
OSETRA (Seafood) ..................................................................................... 51
SPICE & RICE (Thai)................................................................................ 53
RAMA (Thai)................................................................................................. 53
WHISKNLADLE (California Cuisine) .................................................... 45
GREYSTONE (Steak) ............................................................................... 52
REI DO GADO (International) .............................................................. 47 SEARSUCKER (American)...................................................................... 42
WE OLIVE (Wine Bars) ............................................................................. 53
TAKA (Japanese) .......................................................................................... 49
MISSION BAY/BEACHES
UNION KITCHEN & TAP (American) ............................................. 44
COSTA BRAVA (International).............................................................. 47
DOWNTOWN/EAST VILLAGE/EMBARCADERO
JRDN (California Cuisine)........................................................................... 45
BAKE SALE BAKERY (Desserts) ...................................................... 46
HARBOR /SHELTER/POINT LOMA
BLIND BURRO (Mexican/Southwestern) .......................................... 50
THE MISSION (Breakfast)...................................................................... 44
UNION KITCHEN & TAP (American) ............................................. 44 VIGILUCCI’S SEAFOOD & CHOP HOUSE (Steak) ............. 52 VIGILUCCI’S RISTORANTE (Italian) .............................................. 49 VIVACE (Italian) .......................................................................................... 49 WINE STEALS (Wine Bars) .................................................................... 53 ZENBU (Japanese) ...................................................................................... 50
HILLCREST/NORTH PARK/ MISSION HILLS/SOUTH PARK ALEXANDER’S (Italian) ........................................................................ 48 AZUKI SUSHI (Japanese) ....................................................................... 49
BALI HAI (Eclectic/Fusion) ....................................................................... 46
BANKERS HILL (American)................................................................... 42
THE BRIGANTINE (Seafood) ............................................................... 51
BERTRAND AT MR. A’S (American)................................................ 42
HUMPHREY’S RESTAURANT (Seafood) ...................................... 51
BLEU BOHEME (French) ...................................................................... 46
COUNTERPOINT (Wine Bars) ............................................................. 53
ISLAND PRIME (Seafood)...................................................................... 51
BROOKLYN GIRL (American) .............................................................. 42
EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD (Seafood) ..................................... 51
JIMMY’S TAVERN (American) ............................................................ 42
THE FISH MARKET (Seafood) ........................................................... 51
MIGUEL’S COCINA (Mexican/Southwestern) ................................. 50
HORNBLOWER (American).................................................................. 42
OLD VENICE (Italian).............................................................................. 48
LOTUS THAI (Thai) .................................................................................. 52
EAT AT THE PEARL (California Cuisine)........................................... 45
HASH HOUSE A GO GO (Breakfast) ............................................ 44
WINE STEALS (Wine Bars) .................................................................... 53
LOTUS THAI (Thai) .................................................................................. 52
NEIGHBORHOOD (American) ........................................................... 42
CORONADO
THE MISSION (Breakfast)...................................................................... 44
PUESTO (Mexican)..................................................................................... 50
1500 OCEAN (California Cuisine) ........................................................ 44
RICHARD WALKER’S PANCAKE HOUSE (Breakfast) ........ 44
THE PRADO (International) ................................................................... 47
BLUEWATER BOATHOUSE (Seafood) .......................................... 51
THE ROSE WINE PUB (Wine Bars).................................................. 53
THE BRIGANTINE (Seafood) ............................................................... 51
SAFFRON (Thai) ........................................................................................ 53
CANDELAS (Mexican/Southwestern) .................................................. 50
THE SMOKING GOAT (French) ....................................................... 47
CAFÉ 222 (Breakfast) ............................................................................... 44 CAFÉ CHLOE (French)............................................................................ 46 CANDELAS (Mexican/Southwestern) .................................................. 50
THE MISSION (Breakfast)...................................................................... 44 MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE (Steak) .................................. 52
SALLY’S (Seafood) ...................................................................................... 52 TOP OF THE MARKET (Seafood) .................................................... 51
LITTLE ITALY
IL FORNAIO (Italian) ............................................................................... 48
BENCOTTO (Italian) ................................................................................ 48
LEROY’S KITCHEN (California Cuisine) ............................................ 45
CRAFT & COMMERCE (American) ................................................. 42
MIGUEL’S COCINA (Mexican/Southwestern) ................................. 50
DAVANTI ENOTECA (Italian) ............................................................ 48
STAKE CHOPHOUSE (Steak) ............................................................ 52
EXTRAORDINARY DESSERTS (Desserts)................................... 46 IRONSIDE FISH & OYSTER (Seafood) .......................................... 51
VIGILUCCI’S RISTORANTE (Italian) .............................................. 49
ISOLA PIZZA BAR (Italian) .................................................................. 48
DEL MAR/RANCHO SANTA FE
JUNIPER & IVY (California Cuisine) .................................................... 45
ADDISON (French) .................................................................................... 46
MONELLO (Italian) .................................................................................. 48 PO PAZZO (Italian)................................................................................... 48 PREPKITCHEN (California Cuisine)...................................................... 45 QUEENSTOWN PUBLIC HOUSE (International) ..................... 47 SHINO SUSHI + KAPPO (Japanese) .............................................. 49
BUONA FORCHETTA (Italian) .......................................................... 48 CUCINA URBANA (Italian).................................................................. 48 D BAR SAN DIEGO (Desserts) .......................................................... 46 EXTRAORDINARY DESSERTS (Desserts)................................... 46
PLUMERIA (Thai) ...................................................................................... 53
SNOOZE (Breakfast) ................................................................................. 44 SOLTAN BANOO (International) ....................................................... 47 STARLITE (California Cuisine) ................................................................. 45 TASTE OF THAI (Thai)........................................................................... 53 TRACTOR ROOM (American) ............................................................. 42 UNDERBELLY (Japanese) ....................................................................... 49 URBAN SOLACE (American) ............................................................... 44 WAYPOINT PUBLIC (California Cuisine) .......................................... 45 THE WINE LOVER (Wine Bars) .......................................................... 53
THE BRIGANTINE (Seafood) ............................................................... 51
WINE STEALS (Wine Bars) .................................................................... 53
CUCINA ENOTECA (Italian)............................................................... 48
OLD TOWN
DAVANTI ENOTECA (Italian) ............................................................ 48 EN FUEGO (Mexican/Southwestern) ................................................... 50
ALEXANDER’S (Italian) ........................................................................ 48 EL AGAVE (Mexican/Southwestern)..................................................... 50
TRATTORIA FANTASTICA (Italian) ................................................ 49
IL FORNAIO (Italian) ............................................................................... 48
UNDERBELLY (Japanese) ....................................................................... 49
KITCHEN 1540 (California Cuisine)..................................................... 45
CAFÉ COYOTE (Mexican/Southwestern).......................................... 50
WINE VAULT & BISTRO (Wine Bars).............................................. 53
MARKET (California Cuisine) ................................................................... 45
HARNEY SUSHI (Japanese) .................................................................. 49
LA JOLLA
MILLE FLEURS (French) ......................................................................... 47
JACK & GIULIO’S (Italian)................................................................... 48
PACIFICA DEL MAR (Seafood) .......................................................... 52
MIGUEL’S COCINA (Mexican) ............................................................ 50
POSEIDON (Seafood) .............................................................................. 52
OLD TOWN MEXICAN CAFÉ (Mexican).................................... 50
SEA & SMOKE (American) ................................................................... 42
MISSION VALLEY/KEARNY MESA
ALFONSO’S (Mexican/Southwestern) ................................................ 50 AMICI’S EAST COAST PIZZERIA (Italian) ................................. 41 BIJOU FRENCH BISTRO (French) ................................................... 46
BERTA’S LATIN AMERICAN (International) ................................. 47
BROCKTON VILLA (American) .......................................................... 42
SEARSUCKER (American)...................................................................... 42
BLUE SMOKE SUSHI LOUNGE (Japanese) ............................... 49
CAFÉ JAPENGO (Japanese) ................................................................ 49
SNOOZE (Breakfast) ................................................................................. 44
STACKED (American)................................................................................ 42
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Entertainment Guidelines
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
Festivals ................................56 Special Events.........................56 Theater .................................56 Music + Dance ..................58 Casinos................................ 60
Attractions ......................... 60 Museums .............................61 Destination Shopping .....63 Nightlife............................... 64 Tours + Transport .............66
Festivals + Special Events CARLSBAD FLOWER FIELDS March-May. Roam among 50 spectacular acres of blooming ranunculus flower bulbs during this celebrated salute to spring (April is ideal to see the blooms at their peak)—also enjoyed by thousands of locals every year. 5704 Paseo del Norte, Carlsbad, 760.431.0352. Map T22
Let’s Dance
Don your dancing shoes and head to the former On Broadway space, which has been overhauled into the new Parq—a restaurant and nightclub-meets-whimsical wonderland thanks to interior designer Davis Ink. Fuel up on the restaurant side amid twinkling indoor trees and plaid booths backed by brick walls. Executive Chef Errol LeBlanc oversees seasonal Cali dishes such as brown butter shrimp, lacquered pork belly and warm burrata caprese. Dance off the calories and engage in sensory overload next door at the Vegas-style, stadium-like nightclub, which boasts stateof-the-art lighting and sound systems, deluxe VIP tables, headlining DJs and the largest LED screen in San Diego. Dress to impress. 615 Broadway, downtown, 619.727.6789
SAN DIEGO LATINO FILM FESTIVAL March 12-22. Check out more than 160 feature and short films in celebration of Latino film, art and culture. Plus guest celebrities, musical performances, parties, filmmaker workshops and a Creative Careers Expo. AMC Fashion Valley 18, 7037 Friars Road, Mission Valley, sdlatinofilm.com. Map M16 ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE AND FESTIVAL March 14, 9 a.m. (festival), 10:30 a.m. (parade). Festivities begin three days ahead of the official holiday with more than 120 parade entries, followed by an Irish festival including a Celtic village, beer garden, music and dancing. Juniper and Sixth Street, Balboa Park, stpatsparade.org. Map O16 SHAMROCK 2015 March 14, 4 p.m.-midnight. The Gaslamp turns green for its annual block party—featuring live DJs and Irish bands on three themed stages, plus Irish fare and drinks at dozens of participating bars and restaurants. 21+. Fifth Avenue, Gaslamp Quarter, sandiegoshamrock.com. Map Q16 CRSSD March 14-15. Two-day electronic music festival on San Diego Bay features live and DJ performances by dozens of artists on three stages, including Chromeo, Classixx and Pete Tong, among many others. Plus craft beer, a mixology program and local food vendors. 21+. Waterfront Park, 1600 Pacific Highway, downtown, crssdfest.com. Map P15 SAN DIEGO CREW CLASSIC REGATTA March 28-29. The country’s top competitive rowers gather for a grueling competition, now in its 42nd year. Crown Point Shores, Mission Bay, crewclassic.org. Map I8 BASEBALL Ongoing. Catch a San Diego Padres home game at Petco Park, with rivals including the San Francisco Giants (April 9-12), Los Angeles Dodgers (April 24-26), Colorado Rockies (May 1-3) and Chicago Cubs (May 19-21), among many others. Petco Park, East Village, sandiegopadres.com. Map Q16
ADAMS AVENUE UNPLUGGED April 25-26. Enjoy more than 150 acoustic performances across 25 stages (both indoor and outdoor) as Adams Avenue transforms into a block party showcasing live music and local artists. Adams Avenue, between Texas Street and Marlborough Drive, adamsavenuebusiness.com. Map I12 MISSION FEDERAL ARTWALK April 25-26, 11 a.m.6 p.m. Little Italy transforms into an urban art gallery and festival spanning several blocks—packed with works by hundreds of emerging artists, a range of live music, food vendors and hands-on children’s activities. India Street, between Fir and Beech, Little Italy, 619.615.1090, artwalksandiego.org. Map P15 SAN DIEGO INTERNATIONAL WINE SHOW April 25-26, 1-6 p.m. Wine-tasting event features California’s best wines from Napa Valley, Sonoma and Paso Robles, as well as international wines. Plus special tastings and fine dining by local chefs, live entertainment and an art show. 21+. Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar, sandiegointernationalwineshow.com. Map X22 OLD TOWN FIESTA CINCO DE MAYO May 2-3. Two days of festivities include ballet folklorico, live music, children’s activities, a lowrider car show and tequila tastings—all celebrating Mexican heritage and pride. Along San Diego Avenue and in Old Town Historic State Park, Old Town, oldtownsandiegoguide.com. Map M13 JUNIOR LEAGUE OF SAN DIEGO FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL May 2, 1-5 p.m. Sample cocktails, gourmet bites, wine and craft beers from more than 50 top local restaurants and beverage purveyors, and enjoy a viewing of the Kentucky Derby. (Hats and Derby attire are encouraged.) 21+. Ellen Browning Scripps Park, La Jolla Cove, jlsdfoodandwine.com. Map V19 CARLSBAD VILLAGE FAIRE May 3, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Stroll among more than 900 vendors—from arts and crafts, to antiques, clothing and food—at the largest one-day street festival of its kind in the country. Carlsbad Village, Carlsbad, 760.945.9288, carlsbad.org. Map T23 GATOR BY THE BAY ZYDECO, BLUES & CRAWFISH FESTIVAL May 7-10. This family-friendly music and food festival features blues, Cajun and zydeco bands, free dance lessons, cooking demos and cultural and music workshops. Spanish Landing Park at Harbor Island, 619.234.8612, gatorbythebay.com. Map O13 NORTH PARK FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS May 16, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. This 19th annual celebration of the arts will feature more than 40 artists showcasing their work, handcrafted jewelry, a kids’ art block, live music and a craft beer block. University Avenue between 30th and 32nd streets, North Park, northparkfestivalofarts.com. Map J12
Theater YOU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU Through March 22. George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart’s classic comic—and Pulitzer Prize-winning—play set during the Great Depression is as relevant as ever. Lamb’s Players Theatre, 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.6000. Map L10
SAN DIEGO EARTHFAIR April 19, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. World’s largest annual environmental fair celebrates its 25th anniversary with more than 300 educational exhibits, kids’ entertainment, food vendors and live music. Balboa Park, 858.272.7370, earthdayweb.org. Map O17
CHAPTER TWO Through March 22. The charming Neil Simon comedy revolves around the recently widowed George and his neighbor, the recently divorced Jennie, and their journey of meeting, dating and forming a relationship. North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987-D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach, 858.481.1055. Map X22
ART ALIVE April 24-26. This annual three-day exhibit at the San Diego Museum of Art features more than 100 intricate floral interpretations of the museum’s permanent collection by floral designers invited to put their artistic talents to the test. 1450 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.7931, sdmart.org. Map O17
THE GRIFT AT THE LAFAYETTE HOTEL Through March 22. La Jolla Playhouse goes off campus for its latest Without Walls installment—an immersive theatrical experience about “Ben,”who has lived in a hotel his whole life under mysterious circumstances. Lafayette Hotel, 2223 El Cajon Blvd., North Park, 858.550.1010 Map I12
Looking for a refreshing dose of live music? Athenaeum Music & Arts Library offers an exceptional lineup of jazz artists and chamber music ensembles. p. 58
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Entertainment MY FAIR LADY March 5-April 26. Cygnet Theatre presents the classic musical about one professor’s attempts to transform a Cockney flower girl into an aristocratic lady. Features such favorites as “I Could Have Danced All Night” and “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly.” Old Town Theatre, 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town, 619.337.1525. Map M13 OEDIPUS EL REY March 7-29. The classic Greek tragedy Oedipus Rex gets a contemporary makeover in this adaptation that trades the temples of Thebes for the urban barrios of Southern California. Contains adult themes, violence, language and nudity. SD Rep at Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza, downtown, 619.544.1000. Map Q16 THE WHITE SNAKE March 21-April 26. In this staging of a classic Chinese fable, a gentle serpent transforms into a beautiful woman. She falls in love with a dashing young man and decides to stay human forever, until a wicked monk discovers her true identity and vows to destroy her. Shiley Stage at the Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, 619.234.5623. Map O17 MAMMA MIA! April 3-5. The Broadway smash hit musical combines ABBA’s greatest hits—including “Dancing Queen,” “S.O.S.” and “Take A Chance on Me”—with an enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship. Broadway/San Diego, Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100. Map Q16 BUYER & CELLAR April 4-May 3. In this off-Broadway hit comedy, an out-of-work actor takes the oddest of odd jobs—an offer to play shopkeeper for Barbra Streisand, who has transformed her Malibu basement into a minimall where she pretends to go shopping for her own personal memorabilia. White Theatre at the Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, 619.234.5623. Map O17 UNCANNY VALLEY April 11-May 10. A neuroscientist sets out to craft a non-biological being in this world premiere play that redefines what it means to be human in the 21st century. SD Rep at Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza, downtown, 619.544.1000. Map Q16 UNNECESSARY FARCE April 15-May 10. In this zany comedy, two rookie cops trail a crooked politician to a pair of motel rooms, and end up battling mistaken identities, unintentional innuendos, misunderstood conversations and eight slam-able doors. North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987-D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach, 858.481.1055. Map X22 RODGERS + HAMMERSTEIN’S CINDERELLA May 5-10. The Tony Award-winning Broadway musical puts a contemporary spin on the classic fairy tale, featuring all the favorite moments—the pumpkin, the glass slipper, the masked ball and more—plus some surprising new twists. Broadway/San Diego, Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100. Map Q16
S A N DI E G O S YM P HON Y
CHOOSE YOUR OWN FROM THESE SERIES
ANY Jacobs Masterworks PERFORMANCE
ANY
CUSTOMIZE YOUR CONCERT EXPERIENCE!
ANY Special Concerts PERFORMANCE except A JOHN WILLIAMS CELEBRATION
ANY
International Passport Series
PERFORMANCE
PERFORMANCE
except VINCE GILL and KENNY G
except SALUTE TO VIENNA
Concerts and series excluded from the Choose Your Own subscription package options: Family Festival, Fox Theater Film Series, Chamber Series, and Camera Lucida; Special concerts: Vince Gill, Kenny G, Salute to Vienna, The Godfather-LIVE, and A John Williams Celebration. Speak with our Box Office at 619.235.0804 for further details if you are interested in buying single tickets to these special presentations. A SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SERIES SPONSORS:
Experience Excellence.
Financial support is provided by the City of San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture.
ALL SINGLE TICKET FULL PRICES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE UP UNTIL SHOWTIME WITHOUT ANY GIVEN NOTICE. All artists, programs, dates and times subject to change. All sales final, no refunds.
CALL 619.235.0804 or VISIT sandiegosymphony.com
$5 OFF*
A UNIQUE SAN DIEGO EXPERIENCE Nightly Dinner, Weekend Champagne Brunch, and Harbor Cruises available. Whale & Dolphin Watching and Sights & Sips Cruises available seasonally.
ARMS AND THE MAN May 9-June 14. Set during the 1885 Serbo-Bulgarian War, George Bernard Shaw’s romantic comedy mixes wit, charm and silliness in a tale of love and war. Shiley Stage at the Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, 619.234.5623. Map O17 THE WHALE May 14-June 14. On the outskirts of Mormon Country, Idaho, a 600-pound recluse attempts to reconnect with his estranged daughter in this big-hearted and funny play by Cygnet Theatre about a man’s last chance at redemption, and finding beauty in the most unexpected places. Old Town Theatre, 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town, 619.337.1525. Map M13
Music + Dance + Performances ATHENAEUM MUSIC AND ARTS LIBRARY March 18: Jennifer Koh (violin); April 12: The Neave Trio (chamber). 1008 Wall St., La Jolla, 858.454.5872. Map W19 Jazz at The Studio: March 6: Jaime Valle Latin Jazz Ensemble feat. Alex Acuña. 4441 Park Blvd., University Heights, 858.454.5872, ljathenaeum.org. Map M18
HORNBLOWER.COM • 619-686-8715 SAN DIEGO NEWPORT BEACH • LONG BEACH • MARINA DEL REY • SAN FRANCISCO • BERKELEY • NEW YORK •
*VALID FOR UP TO 6 ADULTS IN SAN DIEGO. TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY. NOT VALID ON HOLIDAYS OR SPECIAL EVENT CRUISES. CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH OTHER OFFERS. EXP. 11/30/2015. PROMO CODE: SD5DW
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Entertainment
Get
Closer
Explore the Ocean. At Your Fingertips.
BALBOA THEATRE March 20-21: San Diego Ballet presents Spring Repertoire Program; March 24: Tweedy; March 26: George Benson; April 11: Buddy Guy; April 16: Bruce Hornsby; April 23: Al Di Meola; May 3: Once Upon a Tiempo Family Concert; May 16: Arturo Sandoval and Poncho Sanchez and his Latin Jazz Band. 868 Fourth Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100, sandiegotheatres.org. Map Q16 CIVIC THEATRE April 11-12: California Ballet Company presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream; May 3: Malandain Ballet Biarritz; May 20: Celtic Woman: The 10th Anniversary World Tour. Call for complete schedule. 1100 Third Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100, sandiegotheatres.org. Map Q16 CALIFORNIA CENTER FOR THE ARTS, ESCONDIDO March 27: Stayin’ Alive: One Night of the Bee Gees; March 29: Mariachi Festival; April 1: Herb Martin and Friends; April 1: In the Mood; April 7: Quartetto Gelato; April 12: Hello Gorgeous! A Live Tribute to Barbra Streisand; May 2: Ticket to Ride: A Live Tribute to the Beatles; May 3: Han Bin Yoon, Cello; May 6: Box Canyon Band; May 12: A Civil War Story; May 17: The Center Children’s Chorus: Songs of America; May 30: Whose Live Anyway?; May 31: Selections from Porgy and Bess. 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido, 800.988.4253, artcenter.org. Map B3 HUMPHREY’S CONCERTS BY THE BAY May 12: ThePianoGuys; May 16: An Evening with Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds. 2241 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.224.3577. Map K9 LA JOLLA SYMPHONY AND CHORUS March 13-15: Steven Schick conducts Hector Berlioz’s Requiem (feat. guest artists John Tiranno, tenor; San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus) ; May 2-3: Chris Rountree conducts Leonard Bernstein’s Symphony No. 1 “Jeremiah”; Yeung-ping Chen’s The Moon in La Jolla; and Charles Ives’s Symphony No. 2 (feat. guest artist Heather Johnson, mezzosoprano). Mandeville Auditorium, UCSD, La Jolla, 858.534.4637, lajollasymphony.com. Map T20
El Anatsui, Drifting Continents (DETAil), 2009, Aluminum and copper wire, Eight pieces, 151 x 410 in. overall, installation at the Akron Art Museum, Courtesy of the artist and Jack Shainman Gallery, NY. Photo by Andrew McAllister, Courtesy of the Akron Art Museum.
2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, CA 92037
Gravity and Grace: MonuMental works by el anatsui ON viEW 3/5/15 TO 6/28/15 El Anatsui’s work has won worldwide acclaim for its power and splendor. Gravity and Grace: Monumental works by El Anatsui highlights the artist’s most recent work and features 11 monumental metal wall and floor sculptures widely considered to represent the apex of El Anatsui’s career. in addition, a series of drawings illuminates the artist’s process, while wooden wall reliefs reference his extensive work in wood and display fascinating compositional relationships to the large metal pieces.
MAINLY MOZART Ongoing. Celebrating its 27th anniversary, Mainly Mozart is in the midst of its new season—jam-packed with an eclectic lineup of concerts and events aimed at connecting music lovers and world-class musicians through the music of Mozart and the Masters. Check online calendar for events and concerts. 619.466.8742, mainlymozart.org. SAN DIEGO OPERA March 14, 17, 20, 22: Nixon in China; April 25: El Pasado Nunca Se Termina (The Past Is Never Finished). Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, Map Q16 April 18-19: 50th Anniversary Celebration Concert. Jacobs Music Center – Copley Symphony Hall, 750 B St., downtown, 619.570.1100. Map Q14
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SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY April 25: La Jolla Music Society presents Michael Feinstein; May 1: Carmina Burana (Ken-David Masur, conductor); May 8-9: Le Ombré: Light, Shadow, Wonder (Bill Conti, conductor); May 10: Girl Power! Honoring Women in Music (Ken-David Masur, conductor); May 15-17: A Spanish Rhapsody (Jahja Ling, conductor); May 22-24: Hough Plays Beethoven (Jahja Ling, conductor). Copley Symphony Hall, 750 B St., downtown, Map Q14 Chamber Music Series: March 24: Zukerman ChamberPlayers; April 27: Conrad Tao (piano); May 14: Ray Chen (violin). The Auditorium at The Scripps Research Institute, 10640 John Jay Hopkins Drive, La Jolla, 619.235.0804. Map S20 SPRECKELS THEATRE March 1: West Side Story; March 13: La Jolla Music Society presents MOMIX “Alchemia”; May 22: Singin’ in the Rain. 121 Broadway, downtown, 800.745.3000. Map Q16 VALLEY VIEW CASINO CENTER March 22: WWE Live! Road to Wrestlemania; March 27: San Diego Soul Festival; April 11: Barry Manilow; April 16-19: Marvel Universe Live; May 15: Neil Diamond. 3500 Sports Arena Blvd., Midway, 619.224.4171. Map J9
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Attractions + Museums VIEJAS ARENA AT SDSU March 29: Ricardo Arjona; April 1: Maroon 5. 5500 Canyon Crest Drive, SDSU, 619.594.0429. Map E3
Casinos BARONA VALLEY RANCH RESORT AND CASINO More than 2,000 slot machines, 70-plus table games, satellite wagering and an all-you-can-eat buffet. Daily, 24 hours. 1932 Wildcat Canyon Road, Lakeside, 619.443.2300. Map D4 CASINO PAUMA Tropically themed complex with more than 35,000 square feet of gaming, 850 slots, 24 table games, poker parlor and non-smoking section. Daily, 24 hours. 777 Pauma Reservation Road, Pauma Valley, 760.891.7900. Map A4 PALA RESORT AND CASINO The sprawling property features 2,250 state-of-the-art slots and video machines, 85 Vegas-style gaming tables, live entertainment, eight restaurants and two lounges; plus a full-service spa and luxe overnight accomodations. Daily, 24 hours. 11154 Hwy. 76, Pala, 760.510.5100. Map A3 PECHANGA RESORT AND CASINO Video machines, table games, lunch buffet and entertainment center featuring live concerts and professional boxing. Alcohol served. Daily, 24 hours. 45000 Pechanga Parkway, Temecula, 951.693.1819. Map A3
WELCOME TO KOALAFORNIA THE NEW AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK.
HARRAH’S RESORT SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA Renovated property features a new 21-story, 403-room hotel tower; the new Dive Day Club, which includes several pools and a lazy river; and Spiked, a new craft cocktail ultra-lounge. Daily, 24 hours. 777 Harrah’s Rincon Way, Valley Center, 760.751.3100. Map B4 SYCUAN CASINO Find high-stakes bingo, pai gow poker, slots and four restaurants at this East County gambling hall, plus a 500-seat theater. Daily, 24 hours. WhereSDMag_SDZoo_Spr2015.indd 1 5469 Casino Way, El Cajon, 619.445.6002. Map D5
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VALLEY VIEW CASINO High-limit blackjack, 2,000 slots, the Black & Blue Steakhouse, a Maine lobster buffet served nightly, a 24-hour café, three bars and separate non-smoking gaming and bar area. Daily, 24 hours. 16300 Nyemii Pass Road, Valley Center, 760.291.5500. Map B4 VIEJAS CASINO Alpine casino features 2,500 Vegas– style slots, table games, satellite wagering, high-stakes bingo, buffet and six restaurants. Daily, 24 hours. 5000 Willows Road, Alpine, 800.847.6537. Map D5
Attractions BELMONT PARK A beachfront landmark with attractions, rides, arcades and dining. Highlights include the historic 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 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 K1 SPEED SoCal’s first electric indoor kart-racing center lets 20-horsepower electric karts roam 70,000 square feet of space; arcade games, too. 6212 Corte del Abeto, Carlsbad, 760.929.2225, Map U23; 1709 Main St., downtown, 619.241.4740. Map K11
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Attractions + Museums 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/ticket for admission to all three). Aquarium-only: adults $20; kids 3-12 $15. Parking $12–20. Call for hours. 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, 760.918.5346. Map U22
17750 O L D C OAC H R D P O WAY, C A 92064
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 $42 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
Play one of only two San Diego golf courses ranked on the Golf Digest America’s Top 100 Greatest Public Courses list.
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). $12, with discounted rates for seniors and small children; free for kids 2 and under. 230 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas, 760.436.3036. Map V22
2015-16 Ranking: America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses #92 Maderas Golf Club, San Diego, CA
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. $42; 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
(866) 233-0496
SEAWORLD The 189-acre adventure park features thousands of marine animals including killer whales plus fish, reptiles and birds. $86; kids 3–9 $80; kids 2 and under free. Parking: $14-19. Open daily; call for hours and combo rates. 500 SeaWorld Drive, Mission Bay Park, 800.25.SHAMU. Map I8
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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
U.S. OLYMPIC TRAINING CENTER One of only four OTCs in the U.S., this year-round facility features field hockey, archery, soccer, BMX facilities and more. Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Ask about guided tours. Free entry. 2800 Olympic Pkwy., Chula Vista, 619.656.1500. Map F4
Museums 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 under 12 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
The Original Tour of the Seven Caves
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 under 5 free. 3525 Seventh Ave., Balboa Park, 619.297.9327. Map O16
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.
(858) 459-1114 • www.LaJollaKayak.com • 2199 Avenida De La Playa at La Jolla Shores
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; children 5 and under free. The schooner Californian also offers halfday sailing trips ($31-42). 1492 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.234.9153. Map P15 MINGEI INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM Exhibits celebrate folk art. 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
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Attractions + Museums MISSION SAN DIEGO DE ALCALÁ The first of 21 issions stretching north along the California coast, this m one was established by Father Junípero Serra in 1769 on Presidio Hill and moved to this site in 1774. Adults $3; kids/seniors $2. 10818 San Diego Mission Road, Mission Valley, 619.281.8449. Map I12 MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART SAN DIEGO Museum features post-1950s art spanning many genres and media. Call for hours of operation at both locations. $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 Vintage instruments and interactive audio and visual exhibits offer a dynamic look into the history of American popular music. A family-friendly experience. 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. Film screenings, too. Tu-Su 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $5–8; kids 12 and under free. Free second Tu. 1649 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.238.7559. Map O17 NEW CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Downtown’s stunning, super-mod museum, designed just for kids, encourages visitors to touch and interact with exhibits. M-Sa 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 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. $14.95-$17.95 (IMAX films included); kids 3 and under free. 1875 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.238.1233. Map O17 SAN DIEGO AIR & SPACE MUSEUM Hot-air balloons, jets and historic aircraft; plus special exhibits. Daily 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m. $7-17.50; kids 2 and under free. 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
‘n Roll
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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 SCULPTURE 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
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Shopping 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. 1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.1555. Map X22 DUTY FREE CITY Located along the U.S.-Mexico border, this 14,000-square-foot space offers sophisticated, dutyfree shopping: luxury accessories, beauty products, leather goods, confectionary, wine, spirits and tobacco. 601 E. San Ysidro Blvd., San Ysidro, 619.621.2600. Map F3 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 historic setting is home to specialty shops, designer boutiques and restaurants, including several not found anywhere else in San Diego. 789 W. Harbor Drive, 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 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
North County’s premier local craft beer tap room and bottleshop!
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
20 San Diego craft beers on tap at all times. 300 bottles for sampling. Check our webpage/Facebook for daily happenings. Located in the Beachwalk Retail Center 437 S. Highway 101, Suite 107, Solana Beach, CA 92075 www.sandiegobeerworks.com | 858-353-7174
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WESTFIELD UTC Enjoy more than 180 shops, five restaurants and a food court. Located near UCSD, the mall is anchored by Macy’s, Sears and Nordstrom. 4545 La Jolla Village Drive, Golden Triangle, 858.546.8858. Map T21
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Nightlife 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 and theatrical elements— including aerial performers and state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems—plus 11 custom booths, creative theme nights and headlining DJs. Dress to impress. 905 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.780.3606. Map Q16
San Diego’s Best Cultural Value!
www.balboapark.org
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
Special Events Sunset Sails Whale Watching Yacht Memberships
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
SanDiegoLuxurySailing.com
404.441.9414
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 SDLuxurySail_SP15.indd 1 superstars like Nirvana and Smashing Pumpkins on their way up. Live music nightly. 2501 Kettner Blvd., Midtown, 619.232.4355. Map P15
1/13/15 11:13 AM
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 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 ROOFTOP 600 Vegas-worthy club in the Andaz Hotel boasts sexy décor and a massive, recently renovated rooftop bar with 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
1-6 H House Ad WSD_SU09:Layout 1
5/8/09
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BEFORE YOU FLY, SURF. www.whereSD.com Discover timely information on current events, restaurants, sights and attractions on the WHERE Magazine website.
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DeQuina Moore in Chasing the Song. Photo by Kevin Berne.
Nightlife BELOVED MUSICAL “One of the best musicals of the century.” – New York Times
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 an eye-popping décor, live music, wine and full bar. 901 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.234.4166. Map Q16
La Jolla
MARCH 6 - APRIL 26
BARFLY It’s a casual sports bar by day and trendy DJ/ dance club by night—specializing in private parties and bottle service—in the heart of the village. 909 Prospect St., 858.454.2323. Map W19
SAN DIEGO PREMIERE
2015/2016 SEASON
WELCOME TO THE NEW AND THE NEXT Ground-Breaking World Premiere Musicals and Plays + Cutting-Edge Immersive Theatre
LaJollaPlayhouse.org
,,
BY SAMUEL D. HUNTER
MAY 14 - JUNE 14
www.cygnettheatre.com
CAFÉ JAPENGO Beautiful people to go along with the artistic sushi and Asian fusion fare. Thursday nights are popular for the singles crowd. 8960 University Center Lane, UTC, 858.450.3355. Map T21
North County OLD TOWN | SAN DIEGO
Intimate, Joyful, Acclaimed
BELLY UP North County’s premier live music venue with killer local and touring acts. 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 THE 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
Ten minutes from downtown on beautiful Coronado Island, steps from the most romantic beaches and restaurants
LAMBSPLAYERS.ORG • 619.437.6000
North Coast Repertory Theatre (858) 481-1055
SOLANA BEACH
www.northcoastrep.org
FEB. 25 - MARCH 22 by Neil Simon
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 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
APRIL15 - MAY 10
JUNE 3 - 28
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
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Tours +Transport 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
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 BIPLANE, AIR COMBAT & WARBIRD ADVENTURES Go for a thrilling ride of a lifetime, yesteryear military style, over central San Diego. Among the airborne tours offered are gentle or thrilling coastal biplane rides for two, you-fly-it air combat, and loops and rolls in a WWII warbird. Montgomery Field, 760.930.0903. 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 the Hotel del Coronado and the Coronado community—including their history, architecture and gardens. Reservations required. 1100 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.8788. Map L11 CORONADO TOURING Walking tour around the historic Hotel del Coronado and neighborhood. An ideal way to explore the area. Tu, Th and Sa at 11 a.m. $12; children 3 and under free. Meet at Glorietta Bay Inn, 1630 Glorietta Blvd., Coronado, 619.435.5993. Map L11 ENTERPRISE Daily car rentals with approximately 25 locations throughout Orange County and San Diego. Pick-up service available. 888.484.HOTEL FLAGSHIP CRUISES AND EVENTS Daily 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 historic neighborhoods including La Jolla and Coronado. Reservations required. Instruction provided for Segway newbies. 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 Enjoy guided snorkeling/kayak tours of La Jolla Cove and the Seven Caves, or rent single/double kayaks and snorkeling gear to explore on your own. Plus, whale-watching excursions and bike tours. 2199 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla Shores, 858.459.1114. Map V20 MAGICAL ADVENTURES Offering hot air balloon flights over scenic Del Mar and Temecula Valley wine country for an unforgettable sightseeing experience. Be on the lookout for seasonal packages and special pricing for children. Offering both sunrise and sunset rides. 866.ENJOY.US.
We speak your language. (Mercedes Benz Rentals from $84.99/day) Ask your hotel concierge about us. Sixt rent a car San Diego International Airport 2499 Pacific Hwy I San Diego I California 92101-1748 phone +1 619 363 6000 I www.sixt.com
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. Call for nearest pickup point and reservations. 619.298.8687. ORION SAILING CHARTERS Offering daily cruises on San Diego Bay. Charters are also available on classic 1934 sailing vessel. Sheraton Harbor Island East, 1380 Harbor Island Drive, 619.574.7504. Map P13
Proud Partners of the following Leading Loyalty Programs:
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Renting a car is as easy as ordering room service.
10% OFF Standard Daily Rates.
To make a reservation, call (888)484-Hotel(4683) or e-mail viphotel@erac.com.
Applies to Economy through SUV size vehicles reserved in advance for rentals up to 30 days at participating Southern California locations. Participating locations are available by calling 1 800 rent-a-car. Sorry, this offer is not valid at airport locations. Rates are as posted at time of reservation at enterprise.com or by calling 1 800 rent-a-car. Weekly rates may apply depending on length of rental or for longer rental needs. Rental must end by December 31, 2015. Offer may not be used with other coupons, offers or discounted rates. Vehicles are subject to availability. Standard rental qualifications apply. Offer does not apply to taxes, surcharges, recovery fees, and optional products and services including damage waiver at $14.99 or less per day. Check your auto insurance policy and/or credit card agreement for rental vehicle coverage. Other restrictions, including holiday and blackout dates, may apply. Pick-up and drop-off service is subject to geographic and other restrictions. Void where prohibited. ©2014 Enterprise Rent-A-Car. F01707 10.14
Tours +Transport SAIL SAN DIEGO Enjoy San Diego Bay on afternoon and sunset sails aboard one of the company’s four spacious boats. Snacks and drinks included. Customized accommodations and charters available; as well as all-inclusive packages. 2051 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.297.7426. Map K9 SAN DIEGO LUXURY SAILING This upscale private charter company offers memorable sea excursions, including sunset sails and whale watching (seasonal) aboard a 45-foot luxury sailing yacht outfitted in premium amenities. Yacht memberships are also available. 1450 Harbor Island Drive, Harbor Island, 404.441.9414 Map J9 SAN DIEGO SCENIC TOURS Daily half-day and full-day tours of interesting attractions in San Diego and Mexico, including the famous Agua Caliente Racetrack in Tijuana. 858.273.8687. SAN DIEGO SEAL TOURS This unique, 90-minute tour aboard the company’s bright-blue Hydra-Terra, an “amphibious vehicle” that drives passengers right into the water, explores San Diego Bay and its environs. Departs Th-M from Seaport Village. 619.298.8687. Map Q15 SAN DIEGO SPEED BOAT ADVENTURES You get to be the captain as you take the wheel of your very own speed boat on this one-of-a-kind adventure. Trained guides will help you navigate the seas—via two-way radio—as well as provide a narrated tour during this 13-mile trek along San Diego Bay. 1450 Harbor Island Drive, #205, Harbor Island, 619.294.5852 Map Q14 SIXT RENT A CAR Explore San Diego in style with a luxury car rental. Sixt offers a wide selection of sleek vehicles for any occasion, including BMW, Mercedes and even a Rolls Royce Ghost. Complimentary pick-up and drop-off at Sixt’s partner hotels. 2401 Pacific Hwy., downtown, 619.363.6000. Map P15 SKYSURFER HOT AIR BALLOON COMPANY Offers romantic 40-60-minute hot-air balloon tours over coastal Del Mar and Temecula wine country. Perfect for special occasions. 2658 Del Mar Heights Road #198, Del Mar, 858.481.6800. Map X22 SUP CORONADO Enjoy both group and private lessons in the popular sport of stand-up paddleboarding, plus ocean and bay tours. Various Coronado locations, 619.888.7686. SUPER SHUTTLE Runs to and from the airport 24 hours a day. All major cards. Individuals, groups and charters welcome. Earn frequent-flier points and miles with select airlines. 800.BLUE.VAN. SKYE LIMOUSINE Upscale limousine and sedan service for the savvy traveler, offering a fleet of Chrysler 300 sedans, corporate vans and stretch limousines. 1322 K St., East Village, 619.239.7599. Map Q17 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 team-building scavenger hunts that explore downtown San Diego. Walking and biking tours also available; plus culinary food tours and custom hotel property games. 611 K St., East Village, 619.917.6037. Map Q16 XPLORE OFFSHORE Personalized ocean- rafting on a Navy SEAL-style boat: high-speed sightseeing, snorkeling and evening cocktails on the waterfront. 858.456.1636.
where?
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WHERE 30 THINGS WE LOVE / san
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3 Roaming through the Carlsbad Flower Fields, which are in bloom March-May. p. 56 Marveling at stunning floral sculptures at Art Alive. p. 7 The chicken ‘n’ waffles with habañero-agave nectar at Zymology 21. 619.546.9321 Concerts at the historical Balboa Theatre downtown. p. 59 Being a kid again and riding the famed Giant Dipper roller coaster at Belmont Park in Mission Beach. p. 12 Craft cocktails at the oceanview, rooftop bar at Kettner Exchange in Little Italy. p. 8
Taking the ferry from downtown San Diego across the bay on a Saturday to the landmark Coronado Ferry Landing. Hiking to the top of Mount Woodson in Poway for an Instagram photo atop the famous Potato Chip Rock. Padres baseball games and gourmet food at Petco Park. p. 20 Retail therapy overlooking the Pacific Ocean at the quaint Del Mar Plaza. p. 32 Checking out the “Cardiff Kook” and his latest fashion statement. thecardiffkook.org
Delicate lemon macaroons with berries at Stake Chophouse in Coronado. p. 9
Climbing 150 feet to the top of the California Tower at the San Diego Museum of Man— recently reopened to the public after 80 years! p. 10
Snorkeling and kayaking along the postcard-perfect La Jolla coastline. p. 27
Concerts, dance troupes and art exhibits at California Center for the Arts, Escondido. p. 10
where in the world
7
WHERE is an international network of magazines first published in 1936 and distributed in 4,000 leading hotels in more than 50 places around the world. Look for us when you visit any of the following cities, or plan ahead for your next trip by visiting us online at wheretraveler.com UNITED STATES Alaska, Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charleston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Georgia, Indianapolis, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Maui, Minneapolis/St. Paul,
Artisan hot dogs, an indoor bocce ball court and schnapps cocktails at Rare Form. p. 21 Gallery-hopping along and near Prospect Street in the heart of La Jolla Village. pp. 26-27 Hunting for fabulous fashion finds at Topshop at Fashion Valley Mall. p. 14 Roller-dancing at a little slice of disco heaven known as Skateworld. p. 12 Shopping for handmade leather goods like the envelope iPad case at Boutonné. p. 14 Roasting marshmallows and assembling your own s’mores at the table at Halycon in East Village. p. 21
18 Feeding giraffes right out of your hand at San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido. 760.747.8702 Mountain-biking through the gorgeous trails of Tecolote Canyon Natural Park. Connecticut-style, thincrust pizza and craft beer at Basic Urban Kitchen + Bar in East Village. p. 21 Watching surfers catch waves as the sun sets over the Pacific at the appropriately named Sunset Cliffs. Wine-tasting at the San Pasqual Wine Tasting Room in Seaport Village. p. 63
The impressive tequila collection at El Agave. p. 35
Touring the striking buildings at the Louis Kahn-design Salk Institute of Biological Sciences in La Jolla. p. 26
Reading on a quiet bench at Spanish Landing Park. p. 29
Five words: springtime in America’s Finest City.
New Orleans, New York, Northern Virginia, Oahu, Orange County (CA), Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix/Scottsdale, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, South Florida, St. Louis, Washington, D.C. ASIA Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore AUSTRALIA Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne CANADA Calgary, Canadian Rockies, Edmonton, Halifax, Muskoka/Parry Sound, Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver, Victoria, Whistler, Winnipeg EUROPE Berlin, Budapest, London, Milan, Moscow, Paris, Rome, St. Petersburg
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Conquest Classic