WHERE San Diego Spring 2016 by California Media Group

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Spring 2016 whereSD.com

San Diego ®

Celebrating 80 Years of travel

Festivals, Flower Fields & Where to Enjoy Spring Outdoors Cool Cocktail Bars with Stunning City Views

Around San diego

Inside Liberty Station—San Diego’s “It” Neighborhood

80 in

biteS

a culinary tour of s.d. county in honor of where ’s 80th anniversary

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where san diego

spring 2016

COntents

the anniversary issue

departments

the guide

5 Editor’s Note

34 Dining Restaurants by cuisine and neighborhood

San Diego is good enough to eat.

7 Hot Dates Art Alive, Mission Federal ArtWalk, Gator by the Bay, Cinco de Mayo and more.

49 Entertainment Events, festivals, performing arts, concerts and sports

64 30 Things We Love Del Mar Beach at dusk, Padres home games and more.

56 Attractions + museums Theme parks, activities and exhibitions

where now

58 Shopping The county’s best malls and major retail destinations

8 Dining Duke’s La Jolla, The Crack Shack in Little Italy and The Brew Project in Hillcrest.

59 TOURS + TRANSPORT Getting out, getting around and getting an insider’s look at the city

10 Sip + Savor Cocktails and sweet views at Striders, Top of the Hyatt and The Nolen downtown.

Carlsbad Flower Fields

Downtown La Jolla Beach Cities Uptown North Coast Balboa Park

18 20 22 24 26 28

La Jolla Concours d’Elegance

ON THE COVER

15 215

Solana Beach

S10

Connect with us online

Mission Beach Ocean Beach

Point Loma

Redding

101

Napa

Lake Tahoe

Sacramento S

Sausalito Berkeley

San Francisco

Palo Alto San Jose Santa Cruz Monterey Carmel Big Sur 101

San Diego State University/ Viejas Arena

El Cajon East County

National City

Las Vegas

an ge

Newport Beach

San Diego

Tijuana

M o j a v e D e s e rt

Palm Springs

C O M E X I

1-D

C l ev e l a n d National Fo r e s t E Barrett Lake

Dulzura To Campo Barrett

Sleep Train Amphitheatre

905

San Ysidro

l ey

Los Angeles

Lower Otay Res.

Aquatica San Diego

Otay Mesa

Imperial Beach

To El Centro

805

Jamul

Rancho San Diego

Chula Vista 125

Solvang Santa Barbara

Loveland Res.

Cottonwood

125

Sycuan Casino

Performing Arts Center

Lemon Grove

163

Downtown San Diego 75

Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

Descanso

Alpine

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La Mesa

The Living Coast Discovery Center

100 MILES 100 KILOMETERS

Yosemite r r

Pacific Ocean 0

Fo r e s t

Viejas Casino & Outlet Center

Lakeside

Santee

Mission Tr a i l s Regional Pa r k

805

El Capitan Res.

San Vicente Res.

San Simeon Cambria Pismo Beach

National

Barona Valley Ranch Resort and Casino

Reno

C l ev e l a n d

Poway Center for the Performing Arts

Alliant International University

Coronado

Mendocino

Ramona

Bernardo Winery

Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve

Golden Triangle

Pacific Beach

where San Diego

Julian

Ramona

Rancho Bernardo

Poway

Sorrento Valley

Miramar

CALIFORNIA

By sarah daoust and david moye

Dine on dishes that capture the culture, diversity, history and spirit of America’s Finest City in celebration of Where’s 80th anniversary.

Santa Ysabel

Fo r e s t

Lake Hodges

Maderas Golf Club Airport

La Jolla

Eureka

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Orfila Winery

Fairbanks Ranch

University of California San Diego

G HI

S IO

Mission Santa Ysabel

National

Explore the city O c e a n from north to south and A to Z. San Diego page 60 Del Mar

12 Around San Diego in 80 Bites

Moonlight Amphitheatre

Rancho Santa Fe

Pacific

C l ev e l a n d

AY HW

Maps CSU San Marcos

Lake Henshaw

California Center for the Arts

Escondido

DE L

feature

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La Costa

Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Warner Springs

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C l ev e l a n d National Fo r e s t

Valley View Casino

San Marcos

Encinitas

Fo r e s t

Vista

Leucadia

where

Deer Park Winery

Carlsbad C

Valley Center

Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum

Oceanside

National

Palomar Mountain

Harrah's Resort Southern California

S14

AnzaA Borrego State Pa r k

C l ev e l a n d

Casino Pauma

Pauma Valley

Mission San Luis Rey

RIVERSIDE COUNTY SAN DIEGO COUNTY

Oak Grove

Mission San Antonio de Pala Pala Casino

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Area

Fallbrook

To Newport Beach, Los Angeles

Aguanga Wilderness

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C a m p Pe n d l e t o n Marine Corps Base

79 Pechanga Entertainment Center

Rancho California

Temecula

The Albacore Two Ways at Bracero Cocina de Raiz is one of our favorite bites in San Diego. Find 79 more of our favorites starting on p. 12.

wheresd.com

To Corona

La Gloria

Brown Field

STATES UNI TED MEX ICO

2-D Tijuana Airport

La Mesa

94 Tecate Tecate

F 3

Rosarito 3

To Ensenada

Get the up-to-the-minute buzz from our Southern California WHERE editors online and on your smartphone.

cover, photo by john dole

Liberty Station is buzzing with 12 new businesses, a biggie of which is Liberty Public Market.

City Tours

11 Out + About

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Dining for your whole crew.

Explore new ďŹ&#x201A;avors in the same spot Spanish boatmen anchored their ships over 300 years ago. Hunger walks the plank at the 20 restaurants of Seaport Village + Headquarters. Located downtown on the waterfront. 619 235 4014 â&#x20AC;˘ VisitSeaport.com

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where

SAN DIEGO

MAGAZINE

PUBLISHER EDITOR

Jeff Levy

Sarah Daoust

ART DIRECTOR

Carol Wakano

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Benjamin Epstein

PRODUCTION ARTIST

Diana Gonzalez

CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER

Heidi Schwindt

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Claire Caraska, David Moye CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

ArchitecturalPhotographyInc.com, Dale Berman, Nathan Padilla Bowen, John Dole, Limelife Photography, Karen Morrison, Edwin Santiago, Ashok Sinha, Ian White ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Kerry Brewer, Richard Blankley, Heather Heintz, Julie Hoffman, Jessica Levin Poff, Heather Price BUSINESS MANAGER

Leanne Killian Riggar

CIRCULATION MANAGER Lisa Kelley PRODUCTION MANAGER Dawn Kiko Cheng WEB MANAGER Christina Xenos MARKETING MANAGER Anna Ciric ADMINISTRATION

Amina Karwa, Danielle Riffenburgh 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.Kelley@WhereSD.com Plan ahead for your next visit to San Diego— subscribe to where: Single copy $4, 4 issues $16. Contact: Lisa Kelley, phone: 619.260.5599, E-mail: Lisa.Kelley@WhereSD.com © 2016 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.

Printed in the United States. Circulation audited by Alliance for Audited Media

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 2016

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Welcome

A note from the editor

theAcousticSpot.com

find live music

TASTE TEST

Where magazine celebrates its 80th anniversary this year, and what better way to celebrate it than by eating my way through town to find 80 bites of food that showcase the best of San Diego! I said these very words to myself a couple months ago, when little did I know what a massive undertaking this would be. Not that I expect any sympathy; it was a delightfully delectable beast of burden. And I’m

at quality venues in one click ... Happy Hour Brunch Late Night

No Tickets No Covers

nothing if not a die-hard food fiend—this is what I’ve been training for! So, armed with the firm belief that the best way to get to know a city is through its cuisine, my food-loving partner in crime David Moye and I crisscrossed San Diego County in search of dishes that reflect our culture,

Or, for your next private event

diversity, history and future—and that are just plain tasty. From hotspots to hole-in-the-wall taco shops to remote ramen bars, we ate and ate. (I tried to jog from place to place when I could so as not to gain 80 pounds in the process.) When David and I met up to compare notes, we had about 648 strong contenders, give or take a burrito. The narrowing down process was harrowing. But alas, “Around San Diego in 80 Bites” (p. 12) is complete and yours. We hope you agree that America’s Finest City is also one of its most delicious. Speaking of jogging, spring is in the air, and we invite you to get out there. San Diego’s great outdoors are even greater this time of year, with the Carlsbad Flower Fields and Anza-Borrego wildflowers in full bloom; spring festivals in every corner of the county; outdoor athletic competitions such as the San Diego Crew Classic Regatta along Mission Bay; and Padres baseball season returnTIM KING

ing to Petco Park. Remember, the more active you are, the more calories you’ll burn, which means the more you can eat, right? At least that’s what I tell myself. Cheers to taking a bite (or 80) out of life. —SARAH DAOUST SPRING 2016 WHERE SAN DIEGO 5

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Where calendar spring 2016 Search the full calendar at wheresd.com

Top Stops

SPRINGTIME IN S.D. IS ALL ABOUT THE GREAT OUTDOORS.

MARCH 12 & 17 ST. PATRICK’S DAY The party starts early at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival near Balboa Park on March 12, featuring traditional dancers, a beer garden and Celtic Village. Head to the Gaslamp for the annual ShamROCK party on March 17. p. 49

Hot dates

APRIL 8-10 world-class CARS Head to Ellen Browning Scripps Park for the La Jolla Concours d'Elegance, (pictured below) one of the world's premier auto showcases. Car buffs will swoon over dozens of fully restored luxury models. p. 49 MAY 5-8 GATOR BY the BAY The annual Gator by the Bay Zydeco, Blues & Crawfish Festival takes over Spanish Landing Park with 25 bands across five stages; plus dance lessons, Cajun cooking demos, and authentic cuisine ranging from boiled crawfish to beignets. p. 49

APRIL 29-MAY 1 Petal Pushers

aRT ALIVE, COURTESY SAN DIEGO MUSEUM OF ART; CAR, Rudy Vaca

See the San Diego Museum of Art in full bloom at the 35th annual Art Alive, when its permanent collection comes to life with 100 exquisite floral interpretations of famous works of art, all handcrafted by competing designers. (Pictured: Thomas Hart Benton's After Many Days, interpreted by Sandy Villa in 2015.) This year's rotunda designers, Jim Lennox and Ben Lucero of Pacific Event Productions, will create a floral design and art experience reflective of the Brush and Ink spring exhibition and the museum's Asian art collection. p. 49

Great Things Not to Be Missed

1 S.D. LATINO FILM FEST > MARCH 10-20 Highlights this year include at least 150 featurelength and short film screenings, guest filmmakers and actors, industry workshops and seminars, art exhibits and parties. p. 49

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.

SAN DIEGO EARTHFAIR > APRIL 17 Balboa Park hosts the world’s largest Earth Day celebration and environmental fair produced by volunteers, drawing 60,000 visitors to its 300plus exhibits. p. 49 4

5 DEL MAR HORSE SHOW > APRIL 21-MAY 8 The Del Mar National Horse Show is a prestigious annual equestrian competition—featuring Western riding, dressage and hunter/jumper events. p. 49

2 SAN DIEGO CREW CLASSIC > APRIL 2-3 Around 4,400 athletes will compete in more than 100 races at Crown Point Shores on Mission Bay for the 43rd annual regatta, considered one of the most distinguished rowing competitions in the world with more than 25,000 spectators. p. 49

6 ARTWALK > APRIL 30-MAY 1 San Diego’s largest urban arts festival, Mission Federal ArtWalk will feature 350 artists showcasing around $1 million worth of artwork over two days filled with live entertainment and family-friendly festivities. p. 49

3 BASEBALL > ONGOING Catch a Padres home game at Petco Park, with rivals including the L.A. Dodgers (April 4-6), Colorado Rockies (May 2-4) and San Francisco Giants (May 17-19). p. 49

7 ADAMS AVENUE UNPLUGGED > APRIL 30MAY 1 Enjoy 150 performances by 135 acts across 25 indoor and outdoor stages, along a 2-mile stretch of Adams Avenue uptown. p. 49

MAY 7-8 CINCO DE MAYO Head to the annual Old Town Fiesta Cinco de Mayo in historical Old Town to celebrate Mexican history, culture and cuisine—featuring historical re-enactments and live music. p. 50

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where now san diego

The best in entertainment, shopping and dining

dining

Living Aloha The Aloha spirit is alive and well at Duke’s La Jolla, a stunning family restaurant and bar parked atop La Jolla Cove. It’s the newest location of the surfing and Hawaii-inspired Duke’s chain, and built to impress. Guests are greeted by a statue of its namesake, Duke Kahanamoku—a sixtime Olympic swimming and water polo medalist, and considered the father of modern-day surfing— before entering a massive two-story space that opens out to a generous oceanfront deck on each level. Executive Chef Anthony Sinsay oversees a seasonal menu that blends Hawaiian and California cuisines, with starters such as lilikoi ceviche, chargrilled Tahitian octopus and Korean sticky ribs; mains such as kaffircrusted ahi steak (pictured) and banana leaf-steamed fish; and sides such as Spam-fried rice and kimchee macaroni salad. Quench your thirst with a Duke’s Mai Tai. 1216 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.5888

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The Crack Shack's funky-cool exterior

THE CRACK SHACK, LYUDMILA ZOTOVA; DUKE'S LA JOLLA AND THE BREW PROJECT, COURTESY PHOTOS

CLUCK, CLUCK Chefs Richard Blais and Jon Sloan and owner Michael Rosen weren’t kidding when they announced that the concept for The Crack Shack would be “all day chicken and eggs.” Add some cocktails, and that’s pretty much the menu at the casual eatery serving non-GMO, local, organic goodies for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Located on the same lot as Blais’ acclaimed Juniper & Ivy restaurant, it’s, well, a shack—a former eyesore of a freestanding shed that has been cleverly renovated into an outdoor lounge outfitted with mod farmhouse-style picnic tables, a bocce court, bar and fireplace. At the walk-up counter, order deviled eggs, chicken oysters, traditional fried chicken and specialty sandwiches such as the sinful Señor Croque with crispy chicken, bacon, a fried egg, cheddar and miso-maple butter on a brioche bun; plus soft-serve ice cream in flavors such as salted caramel for dessert. 2266 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.795.3299

Happy Hour Take a comprehensive San Diego brewery tour under one roof at The Brew Project, a craft beercentric bar, restaurant and bottle shop by owners Beau Schmitt and Mike Sill—housed in the former R Gang Eatery space in Hillcrest. Sample from 24 taps of an always-rotating selection of regional microbrews; plus red, white and

sparkling wine; kombucha and cold-brew coffee on draft; and a full cocktail bar that includes possibly the best Bloody Mary in the ‘hood. To dine, fill up on hearty New American fare, including artisanal sandwiches, sliders and salads. Favorites include the pulled pork sandwich with a side of cross-cut fries; the avocado "toast," made

with two crispy tortillas topped with guacamole, pickled onions and cotija cheese; and the mac ‘n’ cheese with caramelized onions and chorizo. The laid-back hang includes a dog-friendly patio, a second-floor lounge, and an on-site retail shop selling bottled beer and wine to-go. 3683 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.795.7890

The popular gingerbasil lemonade at The Brew Project

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WHERE NOW / san

diego

Clockwise: Striders' two-story lounge; wine at Top of the Hyatt; an oak barrel at The Nolen.

SIP+SAVOR

HIGH SPIRITS GAME ON

NEW HEIGHTS

BREEZY SPEAKEASY

Watch the big game in style at Striders, a turf club-inspired luxury sports lounge offering casual dining, craft beer and cocktails. Guests can place bets on horse races from racetracks around the world—including Del Mar Racetrack’s two seasons in summer and late fall—as well as watch other national worldwide sporting and entertainment events year-round. The 8,200-square-foot, multilevel space houses a signature horseshoe cocktail bar, two outdoor patios, 150 televisions, a casual dining room, and an open kitchen with chef’s tables. The second-floor Turf Club lounge includes the Winner’s Circle Bar, where patrons can wager on horse racing and dine in premium booth seating with 360-degree views of the San Diego Convention Center and downtown. Sample seasonal small plates by Executive Chef Rodrigo Campos, and sip signature suds such as the Striders Pale Ale by Mike Hess Brewing. 100 Harbor Drive, downtown, 619.363.7166

Boasting some of the most dramatic and spectacular ocean and city views in all of San Diego, iconic bar and lounge Top of the Hyatt has undergone a multimilliondollar facelift to give itself a more youthful glow. Sitting 40 stories above San Diego Bay at the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego—the West Coast’s tallest waterfront building—the refurbished space still offers the same jaw-dropping views via gleaming floor-to-ceiling windows. Only now, the heavy, dark wood paneling and lighting that once defined the décor have been replaced with a redesigned bar, sleek high tables and lounge seating, a warm color palette of light woods and cool blues, and soft lighting—all designed by Forrest Perkins. Try one of 12 signature libations on the cocktail menu, and snack on light bar fare such as the crab stack salad served in a Mason jar. Open daily at 3 p.m. 1 Market Place, downtown, 619.232.1234

It’s a modern-day speakeasy that blends classic and contemporary with nostalgic cocktails and brand-new construction. Welcome to The Nolen, nestled on the 14th-floor rooftop of the new Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Gaslamp. Bluemotif Architecture gave the 2,500-square-foot, open-air space a refined den-like feel—with 6-foot glass walls along the perimeter, two fireplaces, and leather and brass accents. Named after landscape architect and San Diego visionary John Nolen (1869-1937), the bar focuses on spirits-driven, Craftsmen-era cocktails (read: stiff drinks)—with a house-batched barrelaged program that features rotating spirits aged in oak barrels for at least two months. Choose from a selection of cocktails on draft and “hoptails,” with both local distillers such as Ballast Point and craft distilleries from around the world represented. Oh, and the surrounding downtown views are stunning. 453 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.796.6536

THE NOLEN, GREGORY PIERCE

It’s all about the views—and the drinks—at these stylish new (and new-again) cocktail dens downtown.

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OUT+ABOUT

Hot 'Hood

Liberty Station is about to become San Diego's coolest community. Big things are happening at Liberty Station—the 361-acre mixed-use community (and former naval base) in Point Loma. The historical ‘hood is amid a renaissance of sorts with a dozen new businesses opening in 2016, spearheaded by developer Corky McMillin. Now open is Liberty Public Market—a 22,000-squarefoot, renovated 1920s-era warehouse with more than 30 local specialty purveyors. Fabulous stops inside the artisan marketplace include Le Parfait Paris, a French boulangerie and patisserie; Grape Smuggler, a fine wine tasting room; Fishbone Kitchen, a traditional fishmonger and oyster bar; Mama Made Thai, serving Bangkok street food; Fully Loaded Juice, making organic cold-pressed juices; and Pots & Petals for fresh flowers. Other new outposts nearby include meatball and apple pie shop Soda & Swine, Comickaze Comic Books, Kid Ventures, Fireside by the Patio eatery, and Buona Forchetta pizzeria. Late spring will welcome retailer Moniker General, Breakfast Republic restaurant and The Lot luxury cinema. Add these to historical golf course The Loma Club (pictured), the waterfront NTC Park and the burgeoning Arts District, and Liberty Station is transforming into a world-class, family-friendly destination. 2640 Historic Decatur Road, Point Loma, libertystation.com

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Around San Diego

80 bites Eat your way through the city in honor of Where magazine’s 80th anniversary. By Sarah Daoust and david moye

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opposite: John Dole. All other images are courtesy photos.

First things first: More than a handful of different tacos are highlighted in the feature you’re about to read. In our defense, we narrowed them down from a list of 68 strong contenders. (Hey, San Diego is a taco-centric town, and we’re just living in it.) Taco talk aside, we are celebrating a monumental milestone in 2016: Where magazine is turning 80 years old! In celebration, we’ve rounded up 80 delicious bites of food—in no particular order—that embrace the culture, diversity, history and future of America’s Finest City. No pocket of San Diego County or category of cuisine was left unexplored. We invite you to do the same, starting with 80 of our favorites. Happy Birthday to us!

2/2/16 3:13 PM

Easily San Diego’s slam-dunk dish of the year in 2015, the Albacore Two Ways at the hottest of hotspots, Bracero Cocina de Raiz, still reigns supreme in 2016. Three masterpiece morsels of albacore—both seared and in tartare form—are layered with crispy eggplant, burnt-onion crème fraîche, jalapeño ponzu and lime-salsa verde. Whoa.

>Bracero Cocina de Raiz 1490 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.756.7864

The Triple Threat Pork Sandwich at Carnitas’ Snack Shack is sinfully sensational three times over, stuffed with pork loin schnitzel, pulled pork and bacon.

The pork rolled tacos with tender, juicy pork meat at Las Cuatro Milpas are well worth the wait in the long line that usually wraps around the corner at lunchtime. >Las Cuatro Milpas 1857 Logan Ave., Barrio Logan, 619.234.4460 The salty ground lamb samosas with two dipping sauces at India Palace arrive piping hot and perfect. >India Palace 694 University Ave., Hillcrest, 619.294.8886

2632 University Ave., North Park, 619.294.7675; 12873 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.350.7675

The lightly sautéed jumbo lump crab cake with spicy chive remoulade at Eddie V’s is our favorite crab cake in the city—simple, flavorful and fresh. 789 W. Harbor Drive, downtown, 619.615.0281; 1270 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.459.5500

Some ramen aficionados may disagree, but we love the simple house ramen and boutique urban ambiance at Underbelly in Little Italy—bean sprouts, scallions, seaweed, sesame seeds and a soft-boiled egg. Mmmm. >Underbelly 750 W. Fir St., Little Italy, 619.269.4626

>Eddie V’s Prime Seafood

The Blazin Ahi Sandwich at Queenstown Public House is a special one—filled with seared ahi tuna, cucumbers, pickled carrots, crunchy wasabi peas and served on a big Hawaiian bun. So good.

>Queenstown Public House 1557 Columbia St.,

Little Italy, 619.546.0444

The lightly decadent truffle egg toast starter with fontina and asparagus at Davanti Enoteca likely will dance in your dreams later.

>Davanti Enoteca 1655 India St., Little Italy, 619.237.9606; 12955 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.519.5060

We’ve nicknamed the truffled French fries with Parmesan and truffle aioli at Bankers Hill Bar & Restaurant “Satan’s salty fingers” for a reason. Try to eat just one. Seriously, just try. >Bankers Hill Bar & Restaurant 2202 Fourth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.231.0222

Bleu Bohème's mussels and frites

The truffle egg toast with asparagus at Davanti Enoteca. Opposite: the Albacore Two Ways dish at Bracero Cocina.

No trip to Julian is complete without fresh apple pie, but we crave the addictive doublechocolate-peanut-butter-crunch Wunderbars at Julian Pie Company even more. >Julian Pie Company 2225 Main St., Julian, 760.765.2449

>Carnitas' Snack Shack

opposite: John Dole. All other images are courtesy photos.

The Mashed pizza at Basic—topped with actual mashed potatoes, mozzarella and bacon—is our favorite white

pie of all time. >Basic 410 10th Ave., East Village, 619.531.8869

The ribs usually get the deserved raves at Coop’s West Texas BBQ, but we crave the spicy, almost fruity Southwestern Jerk Chicken (with sides of potato salad and coleslaw). >Coop’s West Texas BBQ 2625 Lemon Grove Ave., Lemon Grove, 619.589.0478

When we go to Super Cocina, we forgo the famous burritos and savor the homemade stews. The Caldo de Res (beef stew with veggies) is exceptional. >Super Cocina 3627 University Ave., City Heights, 619.584.6244

The $7.95 lunch special at Himalayan Cuisine (two large entrées, soup, rice and naan bread) is one of the best deals in San Diego County. Try the saag loo—spinach cooked with potatoes in herbs and spices. >Himalayan Cuisine 7918 El Cajon Blvd., La Mesa, 619.461.2503

We live for the mussels and frites at Bleu Bohème, which offers seven sauce choices—one for each day of the week (or go for the mustard sauce every day). >Bleu Bohème 4090 Adams Ave., Kensington, 619.255.4167

Puesto at The Headquarters makes one of the best gourmet tacos we’ve had in years: the filet mignon taco with crispy melted cheese, avocado, spicy pistachio and jalapeño. >Puesto at The Headquarters 789 W. Harbor Drive, #155, downtown, 619.233.8880

Nine-Ten is our pick for San Diego’s most underrated burger: The Nine-Ten burger on its lunch menu—a half-pound of Angus beef, housemade pickles, butter lettuce, tomato and mustard-seed aioli. We like to add sautéed mushrooms and blue cheese.

>Nine-Ten Restaurant & Bar 910 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.964.5400

The wild-caught, local yellowtail sashimi with jalapeño, black-garlic ponzu, Thai basil oil and citrus salt at North Park’s Saiko Sushi epitomizes sashimi at its simplest, finest and freshest. (Pair it with a flight of sake.) >Saiko Sake & Sushi Bar 2884 University Ave., North Park, 619.677.3907

We daydream about the lobster roll at Ironside Fish & Oyster—luscious lobster chunks, brown-butter mayo, chives and crispy shallots loaded into a buttery Texas

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giant Parmesan cheese wheel. Each is pure heaven. >Monello 750 W. Fir St., Little Italy, 619.501.0030

English muffins made fresh daily at Bake Sale Bakery

toast-style bun. >Ironside Fish & Oyster 1654 India St., Little Italy, 619.269.3033

Warning: One slice of the deep-dish beast known as the Monster of the Midway at Lefty’s Chicago Pizzeria may lead to an instant food coma. >Lefty’s Chicago Pizzeria 3448 30th St., North Park, 619.295.1720; 4030 Goldfinch St., Mission Hills, 619.299.4030

Cannonball at Belmont Park offers idyllic ocean views—ideal for enjoying their unusual but tasty fried octopus meatballs. >Cannonball 3105 Ocean Front Walk, Mission Beach, 858.228.9304

Visit the San Diego Zoo for the animals; return for the Catch of the Day fish special at Albert’s Restaurant—possibly the best theme park restaurant in SoCal.

>Albert’s Restaurant

The roasted beets salad at The Cork and Craft is a thing of beauty—with aerated burrata, beet purée, marcona almonds, watercress, citrus and burnt orange. >The Cork and Craft 16990 Via Tazon, Rancho Bernardo, 858.618.2463

We love taking large groups to Middle Eastern restaurant Ali Baba to

The oxtail ramen soup at Rakiraki is so wonderfully beefy, it’s like they juiced a cow. >Rakiraki 4646 Convoy St., Kearny Mesa, 858.573.2400

The meaty sliced brisket sammie with corn relish on Texas toast at Iron Pig Alehouse is so good, we almost can’t even talk about it. >Iron Pig Alehouse 1520 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach, 858.412.4299

The board of creamy mascarpone polenta topped with a ragu that changes daily at Cucina Enoteca is decadently delightful and great for sharing. >Cucina Enoteca 730 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.704.4500

Inside Señor Mango's tucked away in University Heights, you’ll find a generous acai bowl with bananas, strawberries and granola for $6.25—our pick for best acai bowl in the city. >Señor Mangos 4607 30th St., University Heights, 619.584.0041

El Cuervo makes our favorite carnitas: deep-fried pork, juicy and crispy. Gorge on the free radishes and cucumbers at the salsa bar, and it’s almost healthy. >El Cuervo 110 Washington St., Mission Hills, 619.295.9713 Every Wednesday night at Monello, a unique risotto is prepared tableside in a

Buy a tub of the garlic spread at Aladdin in Hillcrest and slather it on a piece of the café’s freshly made pita bread. It will change your life. >Aladdin 3900 Vermont St., Hillcrest, 619.574.1111

Brussels sprouts at Stella Public House

Escondido, 760.745.7774 The bone marrow sopes at Bonita's hidden gem Romesco Mexiterranean Bistro are a true delicacy—made with fresh habanero, chile de arbol sauce, fried parsley and a beef glaze. >Romesco Mexiterranean Bistro 4346 Bonita Road, Bonita, 619.475.8627

>Peterson’s Donut Corner 903 S. Escondido Blvd.,

The big-eye tuna “pizza” with truffle oil, red onion and ponzu at Kettner Exchange is more of a light, thin, crispy tortilla. We’ve been known to inhale it in 90 seconds flat. >Kettner Exchange 2001 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.255.2001 The mahi mahi tacos at South Beach Bar & Grille are the perfect end to any beach day. >South Beach Bar & Grille 5059 Newport Ave., #104, Ocean Beach, 619.226.4577

Open since 1954, Venice Pizza House is an oldschool Italian staple. We adore the House Special: sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, black olives, bell peppers and anchovies. >Venice Pizza House 3333 El Cajon Blvd., Normal Heights, 619.283.2333

catcher’s mitt (no joke), as is the flavor. Share accordingly.

El Zarape Restaurant is known for its shrimp burritos, but we like to experiment with the specials—like the chicken wasabi burrito with wasabi sauce. >El Zarape Restaurant 4642 Park Blvd., University Heights, 619.692.1652

San Diego Zoo, 2920 Zoo Drive, Balboa Park, 619.685.3200

feast on the charbroiled spiced chicken kebabs with onions under one of the canopied tables. >Ali Baba 421 E. Main St., El Cajon, 619.442.3622

The warm apple fritter at Peterson’s Donut Corner is nearly the size of a

Even hardcore carnivores will give props to the vegetarian empanadas at Q’ero Restaurant—filled with lentils, sweet potatoes, Swiss chard and spinach. >Q’ero Restaurant 564 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.753.9050

The hearty, traditional beef bourguignon at BO-beau Kitchen & Bar is a dish after our own heart.

>BO-beau Kitchen & Bar 4996 W. Point Loma Blvd., Ocean Beach, 619.224.2884

The octopus tacos with bacon at Los Pinos Seafood are downright delectable. That is all. >Los Pinos Seafood 5575 Baltimore Drive, #112, La Mesa, 619.825.3418

Your sweet tooth will be satisfied and then some with the S’mores French toast at Breakfast Republic, topped with marshmallows and chocolate drizzle. >Breakfast Republic 2730 University Ave., North Park, 619.642.0299

Our favorite beach lunch: the meatball sub from Poma’s Italian Deli and a picnic on Sunset Cliffs. >Poma’s Italian Deli 1846 Bacon St., Ocean Beach, 619.223.3027

Happy hour at Cafe21 offers our favorite deal in the Gaslamp: Choose from

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22 Middle Eastern-influenced tapas at $6 each and six types of sangria. Get the cabbage rolls. >Cafe21 802 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.795.0721

The seasonal menu is always changing at Masters Kitchen and Cocktail in Oceanside, but the earthy-sweet duck leg confit with smoked gouda mac ‘n’ cheese is timeless.

>Masters Kitchen and Cocktail 208 S. Coast Hwy., Oceanside, 760.231.6278

El Indio invented the taquito 75 years ago, and still sets the standard with its potato taquitos with cheese and guacamole. >El Indio 3695 India St., Mission Hills, 619.299.0385

The French onion soup at A Delight of France bakery and bistro in Escondido will be the best $7 bucks you spend on the day you decide to indulge in this cheesy bad boy.

>A Delight of France 126 W. Grand Ave., Escondido, 760.746.2644

An unsung hero on the menu at C Level on Harbor Island: Michael’s Crispy Artichoke Fritters, accompanied by a fabulous lemon-caper aioli for dipping. Well done, Michael! >C Level 880 Harbor Island Drive, Harbor Island, 619.298.6802

The steak frites at Café Chloe is a refined little plate of perfection— enhanced with herb butter and a simple salad of mixed greens on the side. We add an over-easy egg, just because we can. >Café Chloe 721 Ninth Ave., East Village, 619.232.3242

Farmer’s Bottega makes a stunning meat and cheese board. Daily selections comprise imported and local cheeses and cured meats served with toasted artisanal

The house ramen at Underbelly in Little Italy

bread. >Farmer’s Bottega 860 W. Washington St., Mission Hills, 619.458.9929

Sometimes the simple things in life taste the best, such as the daily housemade English muffins and seasonal jam at Bake Sale Bakery.

>Bake Sale Bakery 815 F St.,

inside. >Wrench & Rodent

East Village, 619.515.2224

Seabasstropub 1815 S. Coast

The truffle oil drizzled on the Hedgehog Roll, which is topped with seared yellowtail and roasted garlic, at Wrench & Rodent makes it magical; plus crab and shrimp tempura

Hwy., Oceanside, 760.271.0531

Point Loma Seafoods is our spot when we crave a fried fish sandwich, which comes with heavenly sourdough bread, tartar sauce and coleslaw.

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hers with pieces of seared flat-iron steak, horseradish and blue cheese! >JAKE’S DEL MAR 1660 Coast Blvd., Del Mar, 858.755.2002

Want an organic, truly “farm-to-table” salad? The produce in The Red Door’s garden chard and kale salad— with warm bacon vinaigrette, organic egg, roasted garden beets, citrus-marinated red onion, crumbled feta, avocado and quinoa—comes from owner Trish Watlington’s own farm. >THE RED DOOR 741 W. Washington St., Mission Hills, 619.295.6000

Snag a seat on the patio for weekend brunch at JRDN and order the signature breakfast sandwich—soft scrambled eggs, white cheddar, hash browns, bacon, ham and aioli all squished between brioche toast. Add a free side of boardwalk and ocean views. >JRDN 723 Felspar St., Pacific Beach, 858.270.5736

The Naughty Ding Dong at Leroy's is our unsung dessert hero—your own personal chocolate cake layered with surprises inside. (There’s hazelnut, frangelico and cherry-vanilla ice cream involved.) >LEROY’S KITCHEN & LOUNGE 1015 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.6087

The meat and cheese board at Farmer’s Bottega

>POINT LOMA SEAFOODS 2805 Emerson St., Point Loma, 619.223.1109

At Sea180, the mac ‘n’ cheese with truffled cheese sauce arrives slightly browned on top, but creamy and rich inside. And it tastes even

better while viewing the beach and ocean smack-dab in front of you. >SEA180 COASTAL TAVERN 800 Seacoast Drive, Imperial Beach, 619.631.4949

On Monday nights, we love the $15 rib-eye steak dinner at Small Bar, with

a side of fun people-watching along Park Boulevard. >SMALL BAR 4628 Park Blvd., University Heights, 619.795.7998

The deviled eggs at Jake’s Del Mar aren’t your grandma’s deviled eggs … unless your grandma topped

At Civico 1845, the vegetarian ravioli with spinach and ricotta cheese is the best we've had. >CIVICO 1845 1845 India St., Little Italy, 619.431.5990

On hot days, we go to Saigon (if you love traditional Vietnamese cuisine, this is the place) for the spicy vermicelli noodle salad with your choice of meat and veggies. >SAIGON 4455 El Cajon Blvd., City Heights, 619.284.4215

Our perfect Sunday drive includes a stop at

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Betty’s Pie Whole in Encinitas for Grandma Lucy’s Chicken Pie—loaded with free-range chicken, baby carrots, peas and a Parmesan-herb crust. >BETTY’S PIE WHOLE 155 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas, 760.230.6781

At Sirena (a littleknown gem in Little Italy), the seared scallops are simply sensational. >SIRENA

GOURMET LATIN SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 1901 Columbia St., Little Italy, 619.564.8970

The Barrio Bowl at Barrio Star is our favorite healthy comfort food—power rice, boiled beans and organic steamed greens, topped with pico de gallo, cilantro-lime sauce and your choice of protein. We pick tofu or chicken. >BARRIO STAR 2706 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.501.7827

The pork belly and waffles at West Coast Tavern come with bourbonsmoked syrup, garlic butter and added bacon pieces on top. Stop it. >WEST COAST TAVERN 2895 University Ave., North Park, 619.295.1688

The Taco Stand in La Jolla makes the best grilled corn on the cob, on a stick, ever—sprinkled with Parmesan and chili powder. >THE TACO STAND 621 Pearl St., La Jolla, 858.551.6666

The stir-fried spicy rice noodles with veggies at Basil Thai Bistro are a top choice for rainy nights—just the right blend of sweetness and heat. >BASIL THAI BISTRO 8680 Navajo Road, #104, La Mesa, 619.460.8424

Charley’s Famous Hamburgers is just a simple, unpretentious drive-thru in Lemon Grove, but its bacon cheeseburgers rival the best anywhere. Add a kebab on top.

>CHARLEY’S FAMOUS HAMBURGERS 8213 Broadway,

Lemon Grove, 619.460.2690

The fried Baja fish tacos at Fish 101

Speaking of the best bacon cheeseburgers, we’d be remiss if we didn’t take a moment to honor world-famous Hodad’s in Ocean Beach. The double bacon cheeseburgers are epic. >HODAD’S 5010 Newport Ave., Ocean Beach, 619.224.4623

We’re convinced the roasted poblano flatbread at Cueva Bar—with chimichurri, mozzarella and romano cheese—is also laced with culinary crack that makes us inhale it instead of chewing it politely. (This is all your fault, Chef Osvaldo Blackaller.) >CUEVA BAR 2123 Adams Ave., University Heights, 619.269.6612

The ground beef tacos at Nati’s (in business for more than 55 years) are more American than Mexican, but they’re on the short list of dishes we’d want for our last meal. >NATI’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 1852 Bacon St., Ocean Beach, 619.224.3369

San Diegans love their Vietnamese pho almost as much as tacos. The beef pho at Que Huong is better than mom’s chicken soup. >QUE HUONG 4134 University Ave., City Heights, 619.281.6008

The vegetarian ravioli at Civico 1845 in Little Italy

Craving a salmon dish that will knock your socks off? Try Urban Solace's sockeye salmon rubbed in sugar and salt, with roasted lemon, zucchini purée and Yukon potato wedges. And it's plated beautifully, to boot. >URBAN SOLACE 3823 30th St., North Park, 619.295.6464

When we go to S&M: Sausage & Meat, we try all seven types of house-made bacon, and get a sausage board with the lamb merguez sausage.

>S&M: SAUSAGE & MEAT 4130 Park Blvd., University Heights, 619.344.2177

The delicate mignons made daily at Pan Bon will give you a fabulous sugar fix in just a bite ... or two ... or three. >PAN BON 1450 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.241.2443

Rancho Bernardo locals rave that Brothers Provisions makes the best sandwiches they’ve ever had, which might be true, but we could slurp the tomato basil soup every day and not get tired of it.

>BROTHERS PROVISIONS 16451 Bernardo Center Drive, Rancho Bernardo, 855.850.2767

BCB Company (aka Big City Bagels) in Hillcrest is our pick for best bagel shop in town. The 5th Avenue Signature Melt is a must—oven-roasted turkey, tomato, avocado, bacon,

melted muenster cheese and a garlic-herb spread over an openface bagel of your choice. We love the Everything Bagel. >BCB COMPANY 1010 University Ave., Hillcrest, 619.574.7878

STELLA!!! Why must your roasted Brussels sprouts with crispy salami and shaved ricotta, lightly bathed in that tangy aranciata reduction, be so good? We’d happily eat this starter as a main course.

>STELLA PUBLIC HOUSE 1429 Island Ave., East Village, 619.234.0808

What is it about the caprese salad with fresh heirloom tomatoes, basil, olive oil and creamy burrata at Caffe Calabria that is so insanely more delicious than other caprese salads? We may never know. >CAFFE CALABRIA 3933 30th St., North Park, 619.291.1759

To Blue Ocean Robata & Sushi Bar, regarding your addictive crispy, crunchy caramelized eggplant: Thank you. >BLUE OCEAN ROBATA & SUSHI BAR 2958 Madison St., Carlsbad, 760.434.4959

We’ve surpassed our taco limit with this article, but Fish 101 deserves the final bow for its fried Baja fish tacos with cabbage. They are simply superb. >FISH 101 1468 N. Coast Hwy. 101, Leucadia, 760.943.6221

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EXPLORING

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

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Downtown San Diego is the city’s bustling, historical core, which has grown by leaps and bounds in the last 10 years. From its trendy shops, restaurants and nightlife, to its noted landmarks such as Petco Park in East Village and the USS Midway on the harborfront, no two downtown visits need be the same.

Gaslamp Quarter

Businessman Alonzo Erastus Horton envi sioned San Diego as a bustling port city, and in 1867 he spent $264 for 800 acres he called “New Town.” Today, New Town is known as the historical Gaslamp Quarter, or simply “the Gaslamp.” Com prising more than 16 square blocks, the Gaslamp stretches from Broadway to Har bor Drive (just north of the Convention Center), with Fourth, Fifth and Sixth ave nues as its main thoroughfares. Anchoring the area’s northwest end is Horton Plaza, a small square with a bubbling fountain on the corner of Broadway and Fourth. The Gaslamp’s immaculately preserved Victorian-style buildings are home to dozens of restaurants, clubs, theaters and retailers. Several tour guides offer an insider’s look at the Gaslamp (see p. 59), or create your own: The area can be easily covered on foot, or you can rent from Bike Revolution (522 Sixth Ave.) to navigate the district on two wheels. If you start your exploration at the south ern end of the Gaslamp, be sure to visit the Chuck Jones Gallery (232 Fifth Ave.) for cool animation art by emerging artists. Also check out the Art of Tim Cantor Gallery (527 Fourth Ave.) for a variety of one-of-akind conceptual art, oil paintings and writ ings. Shop for pre-owned luxury watches

at Nikki & Co. Fine Jewelers (562 Fifth Ave.). Stop in locally owned Dolcetti (635 Fifth Ave.) for contemporary men’s and women’s cloth ing and accessories. For national retailers, venture farther up Fifth, where you’ll find wellknown 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. 58), 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 historical Balboa Theatre anchors the shopping center’s eastern edge, at Fourth Avenue and E Street. And don’t mind the outdoor construction—a new urban plaza is slated to open later this spring. For a fun group activity, book an exhilarating interactive experience called The Great Room Escape (424 Market St.), where you’re given clues, riddles and an hour to escape a room! After a long day of shopping and sightsee ing, sate your hunger at one of the Gaslamp’s 100-plus restaurants, bars and cafés (please see dining guide, p. 48).

Parking can be dicey in the Gaslamp; a garage is your best bet. Park It On Market is a 500-space garage at Market Street with entrances on Sixth and Seventh avenues (619.232.1271); while 6th & K Parkade offers 1,230 spots, with entrances on Sixth and Seventh avenues (619.233.3994). For more information, call the Gaslamp Quarter Association (619.233.5227).

Downtown’s Core

Arts and culture abound downtown; favorite sites include the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego and The New Children’s Museum, an interactive art/play place with innovative exhibits for kids of all ages. The San Diego Chinese Historical Museum (404 Third Ave.) features a garden and koi pond. The San Diego Symphony performs at Copley Symphony Hall, while San Diego Opera and Broadway/San Diego present productions at the Civic Theatre (1100 Third Ave.), and the Spreckels Theatre (121 Broadway) hosts arts events throughout the year.

East Village

The completion of Petco Park (100 Park Blvd.) and the Central Library (330 Park Blvd.) helped gentrify this once-gritty neighborhood. Shop among feisty fashions at Bloom bou tique (660 Ninth Ave.); or nab a pair of new kicks at Blends (719 Eighth Ave.), which sells

(FROM LEFT) EDWIN SANTIAGO, BRAD ANDERSON/ARCHITECTURALPHOTOGRAPHYINC.COM, ASHOK SINHA; (OPPOSITE, BOTTOM) COURTESY BLUE POINT COASTAL CUISINE

Downtown

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rare urban footwear, trainers and high-tops. More shops, bars and dining can be found along J and Market streets. The area’s burgeoning art scene includes a few notable outposts: Space 4 Art (325 15th St.), an arts center where artists live, work and interact in an educational environment; and Alexander Salazar Fine Art (1040 Seventh Ave.), an edgy contemporary art gallery.

Little Italy

A few blocks north of downtown, Little Italy is home to restaurants, galleries, boutiques and markets dotting the main drag, India Street. Highlights include M Winehouse (1918 India St.) wine bar and Ballast Point (2215 India St.) craft beer tasting room; a handful of gal leries, such as Meyer Fine Art (2400 Kettner Blvd., #104), featuring contemporary art by renowned artists; and cool shops, including Verde San Diego (1742 India St.), selling ecochic personal and home accessories. Take time to explore the streets branching off from India, too. The colorful cottages of the Fir Street Shops include Love & Aesthetics (621 W. Fir St.), stocked with rare artwork, home wares, bath products, jewelry and gift items; as well as Vitreum (619 W. Fir St.), specializing in simple, elegant ceramics. On Cedar, Vocabulary (414 W. Cedar St.) is a chic boutique featuring emerging designers. Run ning parallel to India Street, Kettner Boulevard forms the spine of the art-and-design district. A gallery cluster near the corner of Kettner and Kalmia includes Subtext Gallery (2479 Kettner Blvd.), focused on lowbrow and graphic artists. Shop for vintage and modern furniture, art and home accents at @HOM (2310-B Kettner Blvd.). And pop into Kapreeza (1772 Kettner Blvd.), a European lingerie and swim

Left to right: Wine bottles on the ceiling at Filippi’s Pizza Grotto in Little Italy; Waterfront Park; Fifth Avenue in the Gaslamp Quarter.

wear shop. Be on the lookout for NoLi Nights, a walkable quarterly event showcasing North Little Italy businesses; plus live bands and art performances. Foodies will enjoy roaming the popular Saturday morning Mercato farmers market on Cedar Street (619.233.3769).

Embarcadero

Shop and dine at The Headquarters at Seaport District, which houses the Aaron Chang Ocean Art Gallery (789 W. Harbor Drive, #156), and Seaport Village, home of Wyland Galleries (855 W. Harbor Drive). The bayside boardwalk is an easy walk from the Conven tion Center. Grab an iced cappuccino at

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Upstart Crow Bookstore & Coffeehouse (835-C W. Harbor Drive) and head for the Embarcadero Marina Park, which offers bike and jogging trails, basketball courts and picnicking. Continue north along the harbor to Broadway Pier and embark on sightseeing excursions or catch the Coronado Ferry (1050 N. Harbor Drive). Make time to tour the retired USS Midway (see p. 58) aircraft carrier and the floating Maritime Museum (see p. 57). After a day of exploring, get pampered at Blo Blow Dry Bar back in the Gaslamp (435 Island Ave.); services include hairstyling and makeup. For a map of these neighborhoods, see p. 62. For restaurants in this area, see p. 48.

/ fresh catch

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Seafood supper club Blue Point Coastal Cuisine has been reinvigorated with new Executive Chef Samuel Geffroy, who has launched a new seafood-tasting menu: Hook + Vine: A VIP Seafood & Wine Pairing Dinner. The lineup includes a mixed seafood platter; kale salad with basilpesto goat cheese bonbons; wild mushroom ravioli; pan-seared scallops with ricotta gnocchi; and lime-cheesecake crème brûlée for dessert—and each course is paired with a specialty wine. (Winos will love the Monte Xanic Sauvignon Blanc from Baja.) Blue Point is known for its raw bar, classic cocktails and big city vibe. 565 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.233.6623

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EXPLORING

La Jolla

LA JOLLA IS A JEWEL SPARKLING WITH ART, THEATER, FINE DINING, BOUTIQUE SHOPPING AND THE AREA’S BEST OUTDOOR RECREATION.

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Translated literally as “the jewel,” La Jolla is a gem. The upscale village is known for its luxe specialty boutiques, art galleries and fine-dining venues that offer jaw-dropping views of the La Jolla coastline and the many stunning homes overlooking it. Nearby, hike at Torrey Pines and shop in the Golden Triangle. La Jolla’s stylish streets are lined with highend boutiques, antique stores and art galleries. Prospect Street and Girard Avenue form the spines of the village shopping district, but don’t be afraid to venture off onto side streets, where hidden gems await, including boutique stationery shop Sweet Paper (7660 Fay Ave.); Las Manos del Artesano (7940 Herschel Ave.), a gallery with Latin American folk art; and Tijon Fragrance Lab & Boutique (7853 Herschel Ave.), where you can customize your own perfume. On Girard, amid national brands like Banana Republic (7841 Girard Ave.), we love women’s apparel boutique Laura Gambucci (7655 Girard Ave.), a well-appointed spot run by Laura herself—offering designer clothing, accessories and shoes. Farther down Girard is Adelaide’s (7766 Girard Ave.), a fabulous floral shop that also sells candles, skincare and home accessories; as well as Barry Lawrence Ruderman Antique Maps (7463 Girard Ave.) and independent bookseller D.G. Wills (7461 Girard Ave.), stocking that rare first-edition. Back on Prospect Street, a slew of femalefriendly stores welcome shoppers, including locally designed swimwear shop Sauvage (1025 Prospect St.) and Robina (1261 Prospect St.), with chic women’s apparel and accessories. There’s also Westime (1227 Prospect St.),

offering high-end designer watches for both men and women. Also be sure to check out We Olive (1158 Prospect St.), a wine and olive bar featuring olive oil tastings, unique gift ideas and an ocean-view back patio. The village is also home to many wellrespected art galleries, whose collections range from landscape photography to Picasso canvases. A handful are clustered close together on Girard Avenue, making it easy to hop between them on nights when they all have coordinated opening receptions. Quint Gallery (7547 Girard Ave.) showcases edgy work by renowned artists like Ryan McGinness, while Madison Gallery (1055 Wall St.) represents emerging and mid-career artists, as well as collections that include works by the likes of Jason Sims, Marc Petrovic, Retna and James Verbicky. Joseph Bellows Gallery (7661 Girard Ave.) mounts regular exhibitions of stunning black-andwhite 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. 56); both are top-rated ocean-life learning centers.

(FROM LEFT) ASHOK SINHA, COURTESY WE OLIVE, IAN WHITE

Shops, Galleries & Fun Stops

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In La Jolla Village, the ocean-view Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (see p. 57), housed in the former home of Ellen Browning Scripps, examines the boundaries of art created since 1950. The Athenaeum Music & Arts Library (1008 Wall St.) features art exhibitions, jazz and chamber music concerts, and a treasure trove of books and records.

Recreation

La Jolla is paradise for outdoorsy types. The Cove (1100 Coast Blvd.) hosts swimmers, snorkelers and kayakers—try La Jolla Kayak (2199 Avenida de la Playa) for rentals and tours. La Jolla Shores (8200 Camino del Oro) has easy access for scuba divers. Windansea (6800 Neptune Place), immortalized in Tom Wolfe’s The Pump House Gang, is a great surfing break. Children’s Pool, a small cove next to Ellen Browning Scripps Park, is a place to observe wildlife, particularly the harbor seals that have taken over the area. The seals’ encampment has caused an ongoing community debate: Some residents want to reclaim the cove for a children’s pool; others advocate for the seals. For a quick bite, ocean-view 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 8 miles of hiking trails winding through wind-sculpted pines and wildflowers. Located off Coast Highway 101 between La Jolla and Del Mar, the reserve was established to protect the nation’s rarest pine tree, the Pinus torreyan. One of the reserve’s trails leads directly to Torrey Pines State Beach, located on North Torrey Pines Road. The beach, which spans

Left to right: Windansea Beach; bites and vino at We Olive; the soaring interior of the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego.

4.5 miles from Del Mar to the cliffs at Torrey Pines Mesa, is a great place for swimming, boating and fishing. You can also catch these amazing ocean views from up high, via a hang glider or paraglider. The Torrey Pines Gliderport (2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Drive) offers flights (tandem, too) for novices and extreme adventure seekers. Adjacent Black’s Beach is a remote, 2-mile sandy strip known for great surfing—and nude sunbathing (“not officially sanctioned”). Nearby, Torrey Pines Golf Course gives golfers the ultimate indulgence: two courses with stunning ocean views. In 2008, the landmark became one of the only public courses to host

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a U.S. Open; it’s also the site of the PGA Tour’s annual Farmers Insurance Open.

Golden Triangle

The area east of La Jolla Village is known as the Golden Triangle (or University Town Center, which locals shorten to “UTC”), bordered by Interstate 5 on the west, Interstate 805 on the east and State Route 52 on the south. This triangular area includes upscale hotels, fine dining and a shopping district flanked by Westfield UTC (see p. 59), a beautiful outdoor mall with dozens of shops and restaurants. For a map of these neighborhoods, see p. 63. For a list of restaurants in this area, see p. 48.

/architectural marvel

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Thousands flock to the Salk Institute for Biological Studies each year to check out its wowworthy architecture by famed architect Louis Kahn. Established in the 1960s by Jonas Salk, developer of the polio vaccine, the property houses 29 separate structures, highlighted by two, six-story, mirror-image laboratory buildings that anchor a travertine marble courtyard. To add natural light to the research facilities inside, the architect designed a series of light wells 40 feet long and 25 feet wide on both sides of each building—giving an open feeling to juxtapose the concrete, lead and steel construction. 10010 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, 858.453.4100

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EXPLORING

Beach Cities

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

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Coronado

Coronado is an island with small-town charm. Well, it’s not really an island, though many locals call it that. Coronado is actually an isthmus, attached to the mainland at the southern end of Silver Strand State Beach. Though driving there via the iconic Coro nado Bridge is always a thrill, it’s also great fun to travel by sea. The Coronado/San Diego Ferry leaves on the hour from downtown’s Broadway Pier between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. (619.234.4111), while San Diego Water Taxi offers on-call transportation around the bay from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (619.235.8294). Upon arrival, check out the shops at Coronado Ferry Landing (1201 First St.), then rent a cruiser at Holland’s Bicycles (977 Orange Ave.) to explore Coronado’s quaint side streets. Head south on the main drag of Orange Avenue to find an inviting retail district, with shops like Root 75 Flowers & Home (845 Orange Ave.); Coronado Taste of Oils (954 Orange Ave.) to sample gourmet olive oils and vinegars; and Blue Jeans and Bikinis (971 Orange Ave.) for clothing and swimwear. Pick up a new paperback at Bay Books (1029 Orange Ave.), and pop into The Attic (1011 Orange Ave.) for home accents and jewelry. Find more boutiques inside the storybook Hotel del Coronado (1500 Orange Ave.), opened in 1888 and a National Historic Landmark. For more on the town’s history, stop by

the Coronado Museum of History and Art (1100 Orange Ave.). Other Coronado gems include: Wag’n Tails (945 Orange Ave.) for pet pampering and supplies; Luxury Farms (918 Orange Ave.) for gourmet pantry items; Clayton’s Coffee Shop (979 Orange Ave.) for a caffeine fix; and Art & Frames by Wood Gallery (936 Orange Ave.), as well as Emerald C Gallery (1331 Orange Ave.) for art inspiration. Catch a play at Lamb’s Players Theatre (1142 Orange Ave.), the area’s best ensemble outfit.

Shelter Island / Harbor Island

Shelter Island and Harbor Island aren’t really “islands” either; they’re connected to the mainland and were created nearly 40 years ago with tons of sand dredged from the bay. Shelter Island, with its many restaurants and nautically themed stores, is the departure point for various sportfishing charters. The area is also home to Humphreys Concerts by the Bay, a 1,400-seat outdoor venue. Nearby Harbor Island has its own, smaller outdoor festival site, Spanish Landing Park, and several bayview restaurants. Both islands offer postcard vistas of the downtown skyline, plus flat paths for walks and bike rides.

Ocean Beach and Point Loma

“O.B.” for short, this neighborhood is truly one of San Diego’s most unique. It’s an end-

less summer of love in O.B., an aggregation of aging hippies, surfers, bikers, artists, musicians and other free spirits. “OBceans” possess a strong sense of community and territorial pride best summed up by a oncepopular bumper sticker: “U.S. out of O.B.” The main drag, Newport Avenue, smells of incense and has many shops catering to the O.B. lifestyle, but also plenty of antiques dealers at places like Newport Avenue Antiques (4836 Newport Ave.). Music junkies will love the vintage vinyl at Cow Records (5040 Newport Ave.), while Galactic Comics (4981 Newport Ave.) is heaven for graphic-novel fans. The Corner Store (4873 Newport Ave.) is home to an array of shabby-chic furnishings, tea sets, vintage costume jewelry and other home and garden treasures. Just off Newport, Noon Design Shop (4993 Niagara Ave.) has handmade letterpress cards and jewelry. Wind down the day with a leisurely stroll along the Ocean Beach Pier, which, at 1,971 feet, is one of the longest concrete piers in the country. A casual café is situated about halfway down the pier. Nearby Point Loma is home to a small but charming array of restaurants and cafés, as well as the Cabrillo National Monument, Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery and military installations. The Cabrillo National Monument (see p. 56) offers panoramic vistas stretching from San Diego to Mexico.

(FROM LEFT) EDWIN SANTIAGO, LIMELIFE PHOTOGRAPHY, ASHOK SINHA

San Diego’s beach cities epitomize quintessential SoCal; they’re diverse, laid-back and full of charm. Coronado is known for the historical Hotel Del and its pristine beaches; Ocean Beach is a fun, funky community of surfers and hippies; and Mission Bay offers outdoor recreation at its best. Take your pick.

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There are also hiking trails, tidepools, a historical lighthouse, a bookstore and museum exhibits about conquistador Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, the founder of San Diego.

Mission Beach and Pacific Beach

Two of San Diego’s most popular beaches, Mission Beach and Pacific Beach form an unbroken band of sand that stretches for 3 miles, from the mouth of Mission Bay to the rocky points of La Jolla. Both are overflowing with restaurants, bars and boutiques. South Mission Beach is home to serious beach volleyball and bayside basketball games. Farther north, check out the star attraction at the Belmont Park (see p. 56) amusement park: the Giant Dipper, a famously restored 1925 wooden roller coaster. Another landmark dating back to 1925 is Crystal Pier, at the foot of Garnet Avenue in P.B. This 400-foot-long wooden pier is gated and lined with rental cottages. However, the pier is open to the public during the day and is always popular with fishermen. The best way to experience this area is to walk along the boardwalk, where peoplewatching is not just encouraged; it’s a must. If the nonstop parade of skateboarders, in-liners, bikers, joggers and walkers gets to be too much, walk across Mission Boulevard to the quieter bayside boardwalk. Garnet Avenue and Mission Boulevard form the backbone of this funky, retro retail district, which boasts dozens of small shops filled with surfing gear, swimsuits and casual wear. Begin the 10-block shopping stroll where the two main streets intersect, then head east. First order of business: Find that perfect bikini. SunSplash (979 Garnet Ave.) can help,

Left to right: Beach Village at The Del; boats at Mission Bay; Sunset Cliffs in Ocean Beach.

with stylish swimwear and casual beachwear. For the rest of the outfit, try The Fabulous Rag Boutique (829 Garnet Ave.), a quaint shop on the main drag selling women’s clothing in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Farther up Garnet Avenue is Rusty Spokes Vintage Bicycles (1344 Garnet Ave.), which specializes in antique and classic cycles. Heading south brings you to Mission Beach, home to popular bikini emporium Pilar’s Beachwear (3790 Mission Blvd.).

Mission Bay Park

Mission Bay Park is a 4,000-acre gathering spot for locals and visitors to enjoy outdoor

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activities including running, biking, skating, kite-flying, sailing and boating. Several sportfishing charters depart daily from Mission Bay, and a variety of watercraft can be rented from nearby shops. If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at standup paddle boarding. The west side of the bay is also home to several resort hotels and world-renowned SeaWorld (see p. 56). Don’t miss the thrilling Shark Encounter and the Turtle Reef exhibition and ride. For a map of these neighborhoods, see p. 61. For information about restaurants in this area, please see p. 48.

/ retail therapy

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One part gourmet specialty market and one part tasting room, Luxury Farms Coronado stocks high-end pantry items, elegant kitchenware and home dècor, garden supplies, pet products, interior design and vintage finds, and gift baskets—all from both local and global purveyors. Peruse specialty condiments made locally under “The Patio” private label brand, as well as sauces from The Front Porch’s international private label brand, “The Patio Selections.” Sample barrel-aged vinegars and California-grown olive oils, and order sandwiches and salads to-go, created daily by The Patio’s executive chef. 918 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.822.2190

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EXPLORING

Uptown

HILLCREST, MISSION HILLS, NORTH PARK, SOUTH PARK: ECLECTIC NEIGHBORHOODS FULL OF CULTURE, CHARACTER AND CHARM.

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Uptown encompasses some of S.D.’s most diverse, artsy and dynamic neighborhoods—including Hillcrest, one of the county’s most progressive areas, as well as North Park, South Park, University Heights and Mission Hills, all of which are filled with Craftsman-style homes, trendy eateries and hipster boutiques. The hub of Hillcrest, at the intersection of University and Fifth avenues, is always a buzzing, heavily trafficked scene throughout the day, with joggers, dog-walkers and coffeesippers crowding the sidewalks. It’s also San Diego’s official LGBT community and hosts the Pride Festival and Parade every July. Fabulous shopping begins at University and First avenues and runs 12 blocks to Park Boulevard. Find stylish travel accessories at Index Urban (3833 Fourth Ave); retro urban footwear at Mint (525 University Ave.); 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 out-of-print and rare tomes. By night, the area lights up with restaurants, bars and dance clubs, and a great art-house movie theater showing indie films, the Landmark (3965 Fifth Ave.).

University Heights and Mission Hills

Northeast of Hillcrest on Park Boulevard lies adorably funky University Heights, home to ethnic eateries and fun shopping at places like Frock You (4121 Park Blvd.), a clothing store

whose helpful staff specializes in vintage fashion. University Heights also has an astonishing number of cafés for such a small neighborhood. We love the bohemian vibe and free Wi-Fi 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; Luxury Farms (928 Fort Stockton Drive) offers gourmet pantry items, home décor, and pet and garden products; and Maison en Provence (820 Fort Stockton Drive) is stocked with French-country home accessories. Presidio Park, at the western edge of this neighborhood, is historically significant as the site of the first European settlement in California (619.692.4918). Scenic trails lead to the neighboring Junípero Serra Museum. The museum, built in 1929, is a replica of the mission erected there in 1769.

North Park

Centered at University Avenue and 30th Street, North Park is a bountiful arts district, thanks in part to the restoration of the historical theater, Observatory North Park, formerly the North Park Theatre (2891 University Ave.). Gallery hops and art festivals are held often; for event details, North Park Main Street is a great resource (northparkmainstreet.com).

The area is also home to dozens of independent clothing and décor boutiques. We love the organic cotton baby clothes and stylish art books sold at Pigment (3801 30th St.), while Mimi & Red (3041 University Ave.) has trendy women’s clothing and accessories. After dark, North Park comes alive with dozens of bars, hipster clubs, edgy restaurants and lively coffeehouses.

South Park

About a mile south of University on 30th Street lies the quiet neighborhood known as South Park. Though largely residential, South Park has several great eateries and bars, and is an ideal place to shop for gifts while supporting local independent merchants. Favorite retailers in this area include South Park Dry Goods Co. (3010 Juniper St.), which stocks natural fiber yarns, gift items and handmade cards; Make Good (2207 Fern St.), with locally made clothing, home accents and jewelry; and Grant’s Marketplace (2953 Beech St.) for gourmet groceries and deli items. Spruce up your canine kids at South Bark Dog Wash (2037 30th St.), a staple of the community, known for its “Blueberry Facial” and fun inventory of doggie treats and toys. For a map of these neighborhoods, please see p. 61. For a list of restaurants in this area, please see p. 48.

(FAR LEFT) NATHAN PADILLA BOWEN; (MIDDLE AND TOP RIGHT) YES, DEAR. STUDIO

Hillcrest

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Left to right: The famed Hillcrest sign on University Avenue; vintage gifts at Bad Madge Boutique; Beech Street in South Park.

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/ taste test

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It’s one of those adorable little shops where you can try before you buy. Welcome to Vom Fass Hillcrest, which is German for “from the cask”—the newest specialty store at The Hub Hillcrest. The European-style shop features wines, liqueurs, spirits, oils, vinegars, spices, gifts and gourmet foods from around the world. Choose from more than 25 handcrafted liqueurs, with flavors ranging from apple pie to elderflower; an impressive selection of imported brandy and whiskey; and more than 70 oils and vinegars. A hand-picked wine collection focuses on boutique labels from family-owned vineyards. 1050 University Ave., E103, Hillcrest, 619.534.5034

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EXPLORING

North Coast

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

➺

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 midJuly to early September (then returns for the month of November), but fun events are held at the Del Mar Fairgrounds year-round. Jimmy Durante Boulevard—named for the famous entertainer who lived in Del Mar— paves the way from the track to the heart of the village. The intersection of Camino Del Mar and 15th Street forms Del Mar’s center. The Del Mar Plaza (see p. 58) has scenic fountains and sweeping ocean views, plus upscale shops like clothing boutiques Garys Studio and Peaches en Regalia; Loghman Jewelers, with Italian jewelry and watches; and chains like Banana Republic and Sunglass Hut. There’s more retail along Del Mar’s main street, Camino Del Mar, and the area can easily be covered on foot. The shopping district is lined with shops, including Carolyn’s (1310 Camino Del Mar), with designer resale items, plus several casual cafés and eateries.

Great shopping continues east of the fair grounds on Via de la Valle at Flower Hill Promenade (2720 Via de la Valle), where shops include trendy women’s boutique Van De Vort, men’s clothier Patrick James and Venissimo Cheese & Wine Bar. At the end of the day, head to Seagrove Park (Coast Boulevard at 15th Street) to enjoy a brilliant sunset overlooking the Pacific.

Solana Beach

Solana Beach is home to some of the chicest stores in San Diego County. The Cedros Design District begins at South Cedros Avenue and Lomas Santa Fe Drive, easily accessible by the Coaster, the train that runs from downtown San Diego to Oceanside. More than 50 shops spanning a quartermile feature fashion, home furnishings and antiques. Most of the boutiques on South Cedros are housed in renovated Quonset huts (iron warehouses shaped like a half-cylinder), giving the ‘hood an artistic feel. Fuel up for your walking tour of the neighborhood at Claire’s (246 N. Cedros Ave.), across from the train station. It’s an eco-conscious café with preferred parking for electric and hybrid cars. This stretch of Cedros is also home to Susan Street Fine Art, a contemporary art gallery (200 N. Cedros Ave.), and Tobi Blatt (152 N. Cedros Ave.), with women’s clothing from coveted labels.

Cross Lomas Santa Fe to explore South Cedros. We love Cedros Soles (143 S. Cedros Ave.) for the latest footwear; HIS (also at 143 S. Cedros Ave.), a store geared toward the style-minded guy; Bixby & Ball (214 S. Cedros Ave.), with linens, home décor items and other coastal-lifestyle accessories; and Aaron Chang Ocean Art Gallery (415 S. Cedros Ave., #110). Linger long enough to smell the sweet aromas springing from Mistral (146 S. Cedros Ave.), a small bungalow with soaps and lotions imported from France. You’ll also find hip home décor and art books at Solo (309 S. Cedros Ave.), and everything for the modern garden at color-splashed Chicweed (240 S. Cedros Ave.). Nestled among the retail shops is one of the county’s top live music venues: the Belly Up, a Solana Beach landmark for 40 years and counting.

Encinitas and Cardiff-by-the-Sea

Heading north on 101 from Solana Beach, you’ll pass through the surf community of Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Be sure to take a picture with the infamous “Cardiff Kook” sculpture. As you continue north approaching downtown Encinitas, you’ll see a unique silhouette among the palm trees. The Self-Realization Fellowship Retreat and Ashram Center (215 K St.), with its lotus blossom–shaped towers, dates back to 1937. A portion of the grounds

(FROM LEFT) EDWIN SANTIAGO; (OPPOSITE, BOTTOM) LAUREN SCHROEDER

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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is open and free to the public. A stroll through the lush, cliffside gardens offers views of surfers at nearby Swami’s Beach (1298 S. Coast Hwy. 101), a popular break for longboarders. Stock up on gear and surfboards at Hansen’s Surf Shop (1105 S. Coast Hwy. 101). Up the road, The Lumberyard’s two dozen shops include clothier Reign & Clover, modern home-and-garden store Grounded and Chuao Chocolatier, with gourmet sweets made from the finest Venezuelan chocolate. Don’t miss DeepFling, with silver jewelry from Scandinavian designers. The Lumberyard also has an array of wine bars, eateries and cafés, many with outdoor seating (937 S. Coast Hwy. 101). In the center of downtown, the historical La Paloma Theatre (471 S. Coast Hwy. 101) has anchored the district since the 1920s and still hosts concerts and independent films. Boutiques and restaurants also line the strip. Boasting a sprawling Whole Foods, Pacific Station is also home to Icons boutique, with denim, tees, boho-chic blouses and more (687 S. Coast Hwy. 101). North Coast Highway 101 runs through sleepy Leucadia, where it’s easy to speed right by gems like Lou’s Records (434 N. Coast Hwy. 101), with its selection of hip LPs and CDs, and Ducky Waddles Emporium (414 N. Coast Hwy. 101), with its excellent collection of books on all things artsy or bawdy. A great cluster of shops is found at The Gold Coast (466 N. Coast Hwy. 101), whose tenants include stylish children’s boutique Daisy B. A short drive inland leads to San Diego Botanic Garden, a 35-acre treasure showcasing 3,000 rare and exotic plants.

Carlsbad

Downtown Carlsbad is a picturesque seaside

Left to right: Downtown Encinitas; Carlsbad Flower Fields; Solana Beach.

village. Along Carlsbad Village Drive, you’ll find famed local landmark Frazier’s Well (2802 Carlsbad Blvd.), where sea captain John Frazier discovered mineral water back in 1882. Nearby is Carlsbad Village Faire, a shopping center that is home to several casual eateries and shops. Retail on nearby State Street includes antique stores and shops like Coolest Shoes in California (2984 State St.), Mulloys Fine Jewelry (2978 State St.) and Seaworthy Surf Shop (2988 State St.). A short drive east of the freeway on Palomar Airport Road leads to great outlet shopping at Carlsbad Premium Outlets (see p. 58); as well as unique Colonial Era artifacts at

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Green Dragon Museum (see p. 56). Continuing along Palomar Airport Road will lead you to another cluster of attractions. Legoland (see p. 56) is 128 acres of kid-friendly entertainment that includes the Sea Life Aquarium. Nearby, the Museum of Making Music (see p. 57) is filled with musical memorabilia. Omni La Costa Resort and Spa (2100 Costa Del Mar Road) is home to the Chopra Center for well-being. Two miles south of La Costa is The Forum Carlsbad (see p. 58), an outdoor, Spanish-style shopping mall. For a map of these neighborhoods, see p. 63. For information about restaurants in this area, please see p. 48.

/ history lesson

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Boston’s historical Green Dragon Tavern has been replicated in Carlsbad with the Green Dragon Tavern & Museum, a 22,000-square-foot venue housing five concepts under one roof—a museum, coffee shop, event space, tavern and restaurant. At the admission-free museum, peruse historical documents and memorabilia from the Revolutionary War era displayed behind glass panels. Inside the New England-style tavern, sip a local craft beer amid soaring ceilings and a two-story stone fireplace. In the restaurant, feast on Maine lobster rolls (pictured), burgers, fish ‘n’ chips and shepherd’s pie. 6115 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, 760.918.2421

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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 theater presents superior theatrical talent in world-renowned productions. Spring features include the new musical Rain (March 24-May 1), set in 1924 Western Samoa; and the Broadway hit play about two lost souls, Constellations (April 9-May 8). See pp. 50 and 54 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 Trilogy, in which renowned Mexican photographer Flor Garduño presents a tour of the principal themes from her career of vivid photographic work (through May 29). The Mingei International Museum is dedicated to folk art, craft and design from around the world, while the Timken Museum of Art is home to the Putnam Foundation’s renowned collection of European and Byzantine art, including exquisite Russian religious paintings.

The San Diego Art Institute’s Museum of the Living Artist presents exhibitions by contemporary local artists every four to six weeks, and the historical Spanish Village Art Center is a collection of 37 studios representing more than 200 artists working in media ranging from sculpture to blown glass; the charming courtyard setting is meant to evoke an Old World town square.

Science & History

Balboa Park’s many non-visual art museums are a huge draw for children, but most distinguish themselves by crafting exhibitions that also appeal to adult sensibilities. The San Diego Air and Space Museum salutes aviation with 68 original, reproduction and model airplanes and spacecraft. The Reuben H. Fleet Science Center has interactive science exhibitions and an IMAX Giant Dome theater. The country’s largest multi-sports museum, the San Diego Hall of Champions has interactive displays inviting sports fans to test their athletic and broadcasting skills. From antiques to hot rods, the San Diego Automotive Museum’s collection illustrates the evolution of the automobile. The vast San Diego Natural History Museum’s life-sized T-Rex skeleton, fossil exhibits and 3-D theater let visitors explore the natural world via exciting interactive and educational media.

(FROM LEFT) LIMELIFE PHOTOGRAPHY, COURTESY SAN DIEGO ZOO, JOHN DOLE; (OPPOSITE, BOTTOM) COURTESY SAN DIEGO NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

Balboa Park

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Left to right: Alcazar Garden; giraffe at San Diego Zoo; strolling by Casa del Prado.

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/ whale tales

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Explore the most magnificent and famously elusive mammals of the sea with the San Diego Natural History Museum’s new interactive exhibit, Whales: Giants of the Deep. Highlights include two fully articulated sperm whale skeletons, one of which is a 58-foot male; rare specimens from one of the largest whale collections in the world; and modern-day whalebone treasures. Learn about whale biology, the history of whaling in New Zealand and the evolutionary journey of whales from land to sea; plus children can crawl through a life-size replica of the heart of a blue whale (pictured). March 19-Sept. 5, 1788 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.3821

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Dedicated to the study of anthropology, the San Diego Museum of Man explores cultures of the world, especially the Americas. The largest of its kind, the Model Railroad Museum boasts scale models and interactive features for children. The San Diego History Center is for visitors of all ages, featuring interactive and engaging exhibits showcasing San Diego’s storied past. At the Veterans Museum & Memorial Center, visitors will find military uniforms from World War I, the Vietnam War and the Korean War, as well as maritime paintings by local artists and other displays. The Marston House, a Craftsman Prairiestyle mansion designed in 1905 by noted architect Irving Gill, is a must for history and architecture buffs; the grounds also feature a carriage house and gardens.

Attractions & Gardens

fun for the whole family SAN DIEGO’S ONLY GIANT DOME THEATER

100+ HANDS-ON SCIENCE EXHIBITS

KID CITY JUST FOR CHILDREN 5 AND UNDER

Open every day with free parking. Located in beautiful Balboa Park.

(619) 238-1233 • www.rhfleet.org

The park’s major attraction is, of course, the San Diego Zoo (see p. 56), with some 4,000 rare and endangered species. Among the animal residents you’ll find the much-beloved meerkats, Asian and African elephants, monkeys, birds and more. Be sure to stop by Panda Canyon to say hello to the newest giant panda cub, born in 2012. After visiting the zoo, try your hand at the brass ring game from your perch atop a handcarved pony on the Balboa Park Carousel. Both kids and grown-ups are welcome on the Balboa Park Miniature Railroad, which takes a three-minute, half-mile trip through 4 acres of the park. The park also features several gardens, a legacy left by its founding “mother,” botanist Kate Sessions. Complete with ornate fountains and colorful tiling, the Spanish-style Alcazar Garden, which abuts the Art Institute and Mingei Museum, blooms with 7,000 brilliantly colored annuals. The Japanese Friendship Garden features a Zen meditation garden and bonsai exhibit, while the sunken Zoro Garden has an interesting history: It was designed as a nudist colony during the 1935 California-Pacific International Exposition, but is now a habitat for monarch, sulfur and swallowtail butterflies. Also built for the Expo, the Old Cactus Garden has succulents and other exotic plants. With some 2,100 orchids, ferns, poinsettias and other plants, the Botanical Building is among the world’s largest lath structures; along with its gorgeous Lily Pond, it’s one of the park’s most photographed, scenic and romantic sites.

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Recreation

From hiking and jogging to tennis and bocce ball, you’ll find it in the park. The Balboa Park Activity Center has facilities for badminton, table tennis, volleyball and more, while the Balboa Park Municipal Golf Course offers striking views of downtown and Coronado. At Texas and Upas streets, on the park’s northeast end, the Morley Field Sports Complex is a haven for disc golf fans and other sports nuts, boasting a velodrome, archery range and bocce court. Check in here for information on the many hike and bike trails through Florida Canyon, a popular workout spot for joggers. The nearby Balboa Tennis Club is open to the public, with 25 courts and a full-service pro shop, plus lessons and clinics. The dapper, white-clad members of the San Diego Lawn Bowling Club, which has been around for more than 75 years, play seven days a week near the corner of Sixth Avenue and Laurel Street. Visitors are welcome to join the fun and get a free lesson. There are also a few leash-free dog parks here, including one at Balboa Drive and El Prado, south of the Cabrillo Bridge, and another at Morley Field, northwest of the tennis courts. The park is among the most dog-friendly public recreational properties of its kind in the world. Expect to see dozens both on and off leash at every turn.

sandiegoairandspace.org 619.234.8291 • in Balboa Park

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 62. Museums and attractions are listed in the where guide.

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Dining SPOTLIGHT

American BANKERS HILL BAR & RESTAURANT Mismatched antique chairs decorate this casual spot with an urbanindustrial vibe. A seasonal menu includes pork tacos and an excellent burger. D (nightly), Br (Su). 2202 Fourth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.231.0222. $$$ Map O16 BARLEYMASH This spacious brick-walled sports bar serves burgers, spicy beer-boiled prawns and hearty “Barley pie”; find martinis galore at Ginger’s cocktail lounge downstairs. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 600 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.255.7373. $$ Map Q16 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. $$ Map W19 BROOKLYN GIRL EATERY This trendy neighborhood joint is known for its complimentary daily popcorn and urban Brooklyn pantry vibe. Try the gnocchi and short rib entrée. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 4033 Goldfinch St., Mission Hills, 619.296.4600. $$$ Map M15

Taste of Tijuana The cult-followed La Jolla taqueria The Taco Stand is spicing up downtown with its second location. Expect the same flavorful taco shop fare—inspired by the food stands of nearby Tijuana and traditional Latin American recipes—served in a bright, 1,500-square-foot eatery accented by a colorful wall mural, high ceilings, an openair kitchen, and brick and wood accents. Along with authentic Mexican fixings, feast on made-to-order tortillas; flame-grilled chicken tacos; the al pastor burrito with rotisserie-marinated pork and pineapple; carne asadatopped fries; and the famous Nopal taco filled with flamegrilled cactus. Wash it down with a cerveza for a satisfying lunch or dinner. 645 B St., downtown, letstaco.com

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. $$$ Map W22 CRAFTSMAN NEW AMERICAN TAVERN This stylish Encinitas watering hole serves up the Devil’s Free Range Chicken, deep-fried Brussels sprouts and Root Beer Cake. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). 267 El Camino Real, Encinitas, 760.452.2000. $$ Map V22 GREEN DRAGON TAVERN Inside this New Englandstyle tavern, choose from one of 20 craft brews on tap, and feast on American comfort cuisine, including Maine lobster rolls, New England clam chowder and the Paul Revere burger—made with house-cured bacon. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 6115 Paseo del Norte, Carlsbad, 760.918.2421. $$ Map U22 HALF DOOR BREWING CO. Opt for one of several house beers brewed on-site at this homey, Irish brewpub located one block from Petco Park. Plus inventive pub fare and cocktails. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 903 Island Ave., East Village, 619.232.9845. $ Map R16 HERRINGBONE Expect farm-to-sea American dishes with global influences, handcrafted cocktails and 100-year-old olive trees enhancing the upscale décor inside this refined warehouse-style space. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 7837 Herschel Ave., La Jolla, 858.459.0221. $$$ 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. $$ Map Q14 JIMMY’S FAMOUS AMERICAN TAVERN Spicy California cheeseburgers and specialty cocktails served in a fun, casual bayside venue; outdoor patio offers great marina views. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 4990 N. Harbor Drive, Point Loma, 619.226.2103. $$ Map K9 KETTNER EXCHANGE Little Italy’s current hotspot offers progressive American dishes such as big-eye tuna pizza and gluten-free gnocchi. Downstairs is a sumptuous space with cozy seating and a two-way fireplace; upstairs is a sprawling rooftop lounge with bay views and socialites sipping craft cocktails. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 2001 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.255.2001. $$$ Map P15

Guidelines

Restaurants are listed by city on page 48. Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps on pages 60-63. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.

Index American............................... 34 Breakfast.................................35 California Cuisine................35 Eclectic/Fusion.....................37 French......................................38

Japanese..................................41 Mexican/Southwestern....41 Seafood............................... 42 Steak..................................... 44 Thai....................................... 44 International..........................38 Wine Bars........................... 45 Italian........................................39

THE MED La Valencia’s charming, Mediterranean-villastyle eatery features locally sourced, sustainable dishes such as miso Chilean sea bass, an ocean-view terrace and live music five days a week. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1132 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.551.3741. $$ Map W19 MISTER A’S Incredible 12th-floor views and romantic ambiance complemented by fresh, seasonal ingredients. Appetizers range from mac ‘n’ cheese to pan-seared scallops, plus an outstanding wine list. The new brunch menu features creative Bloody Marys. L (M–F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 2550 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.239.1377. $$$$ Map O16 NEIGHBORHOOD This gastropub is a bit snobbish about its condiments (you’ll find no ketchup here), but makes up for it with tasty gourmet burgers, hand-cut sweet potato fries and craft brews. L, D (daily). 777 G St., East Village, 619.446.0002. $$ Map Q16 SEARSUCKER At this hotspot, Brian Malarkey crafts a bold menu that ranges from a mammoth 32-oz. rib-eye to mini appetizer bites. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 611 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.7327, Map Q16; 12995 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.369.5700. $$$ Map X22 SLATER’S 50/50 Design your own gourmet burger, or choose from one of 10 specialty burgers, including the Peanut Butter & Jellousy burger with peanut butter, strawberry jelly and bacon. Signature patty is the 50/50 with ground beef and bacon. L, D (daily); B (Su). 2750 Dewey Road, #193, Point Loma, 619.398.2600. $$ Map J9 SOLACE & THE MOONLIGHT LOUNGE The second eatery and bar by Chef Matt Gordon, this North County favorite serves upscale comfort food with a focus 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 STATION TAVERN Expect a cool, architectural indoor/ outdoor, family-friendly (and dog-friendly) space with picnic tables, serving up craft beers, cocktails and burgers. Also try the locally sourced farmers market salad with a side of sweet potato fries. L, D (Tu-Su). 2204 Fern St., South Park, 619.255.0657. $ Map K12 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. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 3687 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.543.1007. $$$ Map N16

In the mood for sushi? Try one of the county’s popular Japanese outposts for authentic and creative fare—including Nobu, Taka and Shino Sushi + Kappo—listed on p. 41.

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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 Breezy, casually chic eatery by the beach serves up a health-conscious menu of granola, flapjacks, salads and more. B, L, D (daily). 159 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Solana Beach, 858.509.0632. $$ Map X22 BRIAN’S 24 Old-school clubby spot features a mahogany bar, crystal chandelier and 24-hour dining (midnight brunch, anyone?). Burgers, steaks and chicken ‘n’ waffles, too. B, L, D (daily). 828 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.702.8410. $ Map Q16 CAFÉ 222 Locals line up in droves for Café 222’s quirky American cuisine and whimsical décor. Popular menu items include the peanut butter waffle with bananas at breakfast; tuna melts, salads and more at lunch. B, L (daily). 222 Island Ave., downtown, 619.236.9902. $ Map R15 THE COTTAGE Housed in a charming turn-of-thecentury home complete with a quaint garden patio, the Cottage is hugely popular among locals for breakfast (don’t miss the coffee cake). Sandwiches, salads and burgers at lunch. B, L (daily). 7702 Fay Ave., La Jolla, 858.454.8409. $ Map W19 HASH HOUSE A GO GO Huge portions of “twisted farm food” that will make your eyes bulge: egg scrambles and more arrive on massive platters, speared with a giant rosemary branch. B, L (daily); D (Tu-Su). 3628 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.298.4646. $$ Map N16 ISABEL’S CANTINA This cool, casual spot serves health-conscious, bold-flavored Latin and Asian-influenced fare. For breakfast, try the soy-chorizo scramble or blackberry-banana pancakes. B, L, D (daily). 966 Felspar St., Pacific Beach, 858.272.8400. $$ Map H7 THE MISSION Acclaimed mini-chain is known for pancakes, French toast, smoothies, breakfast burritos and health-conscious Latin dishes. B, L (daily). 3795 Mission Blvd., Mission Beach, 858.488.9060, Map I8; 2801 University Ave., North Park, 619.220.8992, Map J12; 1250 J St., East Village, 619.232.7662. $ Map Q17 RICHARD WALKER’S PANCAKE HOUSE Popular casual spot with a huge selection of mouthwatering flapjacks and other breakfast and lunch fare. Favorites include the baked apple pancake. B, L (daily). 520 Front St., downtown, 619.231.7777, Map Q15; 909 Prospect St. La Jolla, 858.459.8800. $ Map W19 SNOOZE, AN A.M. EATERY This bright, energetic joint features breakfast and brunch faves like eggs Benedict, pancakes, French toast, cocktails, a fun coffee menu and a breakfast potpie. B, L (daily). 3940 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.500.3344, Map N16; 3435 Del Mar Heights Road, Del Mar, 858.703.5300. $$ 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

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Dining ARTERRA A favorite power-lunch spot with a seasonal menu, plus a sushi bar and outdoor lounge with fire pits and cabanas. B (daily), L (M–F), D (M– Sa). Marriott Del Mar, 11966 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.369.6032. $$$ Map X22

sallyssandiego.com

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. $$$ Map T22 BURGER LOUNGE Home of the “original grass-fed burger,” this local chain caters to carnivores and vegetarians with a menu focused on sustainable, quality ingredients. L, D (daily). 922 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.6835, Map L10; 1101 Wall St., La Jolla, 858.456.0196, Map W19; 1608 India St., Little Italy, 619.237.7878. $$ Map P15 (Visit burgerlounge.com for additional locations.) CUSP DINING & DRINKS Head 11 stories up at Hotel La Jolla for Mediterranean-influenced California cuisine and small plates overlooking the coastline. D (nightly), B (M-F), Br (Sa-Su). 7955 La Jolla Shores Drive, La Jolla, 858.551.3620. $$$ Map V20 EAT AT THE PEARL Executive Chef Elliott Townsend executes a coastal California menu at EAT at The Pearl, the boutique hotel’s retro-cool eatery. Expect seasonal, local dishes where simple flavors rule; we love the duck breast, gluten-free gnocchi and shrimp ‘n’ grits. D (M-Sa), Br (Su). 1410 Rosecrans St., Point Loma, 619.226.6100. $$ Map J8 C THE FLYING PIG PUB AND KITCHEN This foodie- M approved restaurant in Oceanside features farm-to-table cuisine focused on California-infused American dishes. Y Think handmade pasta, organic salads and Duroc pork CM belly. D (nightly). 626 S. Tremont St., Oceanside, 760.453.2940. $$$ Map S22 MY

GEORGE’S AT THE COVE La Jolla institution comprises CY three levels (from elegant to casual) of ocean views. Chef Trey Foshee creates seafood, steak and regional cuisine.CMY Mid-level bar is a great happy hour spot. L, D (daily). 1250 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.4244. $$$$ Map W19 K GRANT GRILL Expect seasonal dishes with ingredients native to the region—jumbo diver scallops are a signature dish—while Jeff Josenhans crafts his mixology magic behind the bar, all housed inside the historical US Grant hotel. B, L, D (daily). 326 Broadway, downtown, 619.744.2077. $$$$ Map Q16

GRAND

- REOPENING LATE MARCH 2016 Experience bold flavors and magnificent Marina views in the resdesigned Sally’s Seafood on the Water

GREAT MAPLE This upscale “diner” serves wellcrafted comfort food and serious drinks. Choose from salads, burgers, sandwiches, seafood, pasta and flatbread pizzas, but save room for house-made apple pie or the popular maple-bacon doughnuts. B, L (M-F); D (Tu-Su); Br (Sa-Su). 1451 Washington St., Hillcrest, 619.255.2282. $$ Map N17 JRDN Hip restaurant and bar at Tower 23 hotel has steak and seafood dishes, plus a full raw bar and happy hour specials. Patio offers boardwalk and ocean views, plus fun people-watching. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 723 Felspar St., Pacific Beach, 858.270.5736. $$$ Map H7 JSIX Modern, recently remodeled restaurant inside Hotel Solamar features seasonal dishes inspired by the coastline and area farms, lots of handcrafted elements and wines from Washington to Baja; plus craft cocktails. B, L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 616 J St., Gaslamp, 619.531.8744. $$$ Map Q16 JUNIPER & IVY Top Chef star Richard Blais oversees the modern Cali-American menu loaded with artisanal dishes—from raw seafood, pastas and small plates, to mains such as prime strip loin and local chicken served with English pea gnocchi. Don’t miss out on the famous chocolate “Yodel” for dessert. D (nightly). 2228 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.269.9036. $$$ Map P15

1 Market Place • San Diego • CA • 92101

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Dining KITCHEN 1540 Expect seasonal dishes such as Kona kampachi, green tomato gazpacho, Hampshire pork belly, Skuna Bay salmon and dry-aged New York steak at this chic eatery at L’Auberge Del Mar resort. Ask for a table on the outdoor patio. D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.793.6460. $$$$ Map X22 LEROY’S KITCHEN & LOUNGE Recognized for its farm-to-table fare, Leroy’s offers a variety of unique seafood, meat and pasta dishes. Favorites include roasted rainbow trout and duck pot pie. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1015 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.6087. $$ Map L11 MARKET RESTAURANT + BAR Chef Carl Schroeder crafts modern cuisine using local produce, handmade cheeses and locally raised meat. Highlights include the blue cheese soufflé, market veggie tasting and Meyer lemon-cream crepes. D (nightly). 3702 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.523.0007. $$$$ Map X22 NINE-TEN Inside the Grande Colonial Hotel, awardwinning Chef Jason Knibb creates evolving California cuisine from local, organic ingredients. The Jamaican jerk pork belly appetizer and the braised short rib entrée are highlights. B, L, D (daily). 910 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.964.5400. $$$ Map V19 THE PATIO ON GOLDFINCH Casual neighborhood spot features a glass-encased cheese cave and two “living walls.” Seasonal menu includes salads, flatbreads, seafood and meat dishes; as well as an array of cocktails, global wines and local craft beers. B, L (M-F); D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su). 4020 Goldfinch St., Mission Hills, 619.501.5090. $$$ Map N15 THE PATIO ON LAMONT This popular neighborhood nook features craft cocktails, beer and a global menu with California influences. Expect such dishes as the braised pork shank with bacon and asiago risotto. Dogs welcome outside. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 4445 Lamont St., Pacific Beach, 858.412.4648. $$ Map H8 PREPKITCHEN LITTLE ITALY Its stylish second-story locale makes for a fab alternative to the area’s Italian eateries. Daily specials include the farmers market flatbread and local halibut. D (nightly), L (M-F), Br (Sa-Su). 1660 India St., Little Italy, 619.398.8383. $$$ Map P15 STARLITE Dazzling design complements sustainably farmed food and boutique cocktails at this ultra-hip restaurant/bar. Don’t miss the burger on brioche and the signature Starlite Mule. D (nightly). 21+. 3175 India St., Midtown, 619.358.9766. $$ Map O15 WAYPOINT PUBLIC This laid-back gastropub features 100 international bottled beers; a custom 30-tap system focused on West Coast craft brews; and comfort dishes that range from a smoked brisket sandwich to crispy shrimp tacos. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 3794 30th St., North Park, 619.255.8778. $$ Map J12 WHISKNLADLE Chef Ryan Johnston uses local organic ingredients in dishes like roasted bone marrow and chorizo-date fritters. Trendy bar and lounge area serves up exceptional craft cocktails. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1044 Wall St., La Jolla, 858.551.7575. $$$ Map W19

Eclectic/Fusion BALI HAI Tiki oasis has a Polynesian menu, featuring Korean barbecued ribs and wok-fried whole striped bass, plus fabulous bay views and stiff mai tais. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). 2230 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.222.1181. $$$ Map K9 INDIGO GRILL The remodeled Cohn Group restaurant features a Latin-inspired menu that includes unique offerings such as achiote-marinated prime flat iron steak and “Flaming Hot Cheetos,” made with pig ears and cotija cheese. D (nightly). 1536 India St., Little Italy, 619.234.6802. $$$ Map P15

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Dining French 100 WINES KITCHEN This cozy French bistro and wine den serves Euro-style comfort food, from phyllo-crusted sweetbreads to bone marrow with brown butter capers. D (nightly). 1027 University Ave., Hillcrest, 619.491.0100. $$$ Map N16

Fresh Fish. Flown in Daily. Sleek and sophisticated, The Oceanaire provides the perfect setting to enjoy an unrivaled atmosphere where you will indulge in tantalizing chef creations, exceptional wines and exquisite desserts.

ADDISON Chef William Bradley creates delectable, elegant dishes from local ingredients with French influences at this ultra-fine-dining restaurant at Fairmont Grand Del Mar. D (Tu-Sa). 5200 Grand Del Mar Way, Del Mar, 858.314.1900. $$$$ Map X22 BLEU BOHEME Kensington’s charming bistro, with its candlelit rooms and old-world European ambiance, is known for its traditional French fare—including mussels, coq au vin and boeuf bourguignon. L, D (daily). 4090 Adams Ave., Kensington, 619.255.4167. $$$ Map I12 BO-BEAU Chef Katherine Humphus’ classic French dishes (boeuf bourguignon, chicken fricasse) are served in a cozy and inviting atmosphere in bohemian Ocean Beach. Great spot for conversation and date nights. D (nightly). 4996 W. Point Loma Blvd., Ocean Beach, 619.224.2884. $$$ Map J8 CAFÉ CHLOE Locals’ fave offers afternoon “urban tea” (booking required) and bistro cuisine such as smoked trout salad, cheese plates and moules frites in a casually elegant setting; plus a sidewalk patio. B, L, D (daily). 721 Ninth Ave., East Village, 619.232.3242. $$ Map Q17 CAFÉ LA RUE This casual bistro inside La Valencia Hotel serves up modern twists on European cuisine, including loup de mer, cioppino and Brussels sprouts. Full bar features beer, wine and specialty cocktails. B, L, D (daily). 1132 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.0771. $$$ Map W19

Gaslamp District • 400 J Street • (619) 858-2277 theoceanaire.com • Reserve your table today.

MARINE ROOM Outstanding nouveau French food such as macadamia-pesto-crusted salmon and artisanal cheeses by Chef Bernard Guillas in an unparalleled oceanfront location. D (nightly). 2000 Spindrift Drive, La Jolla, 858.459.7222. $$$$ Map W20 MILLE FLEURS This romantic, fine-dining restaurant is a classic date spot. The cuisine is creative, updated French/ California (think: escargot and whole Dover sole meunière). L (Tu–F), D (nightly). 6009 Paseo Delicias, Rancho Santa Fe, 858.756.3085. $$$$ Map W23 PAMPLEMOUSSE GRILLE Chef Jeffrey Strauss presents a country French–influenced American menu in a quirky, casually elegant setting near the racetrack. Don’t miss the savory lamb stew and basil-roasted sea bass with sautéed rock shrimp and a polenta cake. L (F), D (nightly). 514 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.792.9090. $$$$ Map W22 THE SMOKING GOAT This cozy neighborhood bistro serves up French and American cuisine with a countryside flair. Expect such dishes as the Berkshire pork chop, steak frites and its famous duck fat truffle fries. D (Tu-Su). 3408 30th St., North Park, 619.955.5295. $$$ Map J12

International BERTA’S LATIN AMERICAN Latin American specialties include tapas, seafood and main dishes such as Honduran seafood soup and the Brazilian vatapá. L, D (Tu-Su). 3928 Twiggs St., Old Town, 619.295.2343. $$ Map N13 COSTA BRAVA Coastal eatery serves Spain’s greatest hits, from jamón iberico to paella to tapas to sangria. Live music throughout the week. L, D (daily). 1653 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach, 858.273.1218. $$$ Map H8 MOLA Charming Spanish bistro serves tapas, salads, flatbreads, and meat and seafood dishes. Enjoy live Spanish fusion music every weekend and daily happy hour specials (3-6:30 p.m.; all day Su). D (nightly). 1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.793.0796. $$ Map X22

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Dining OB WAREHOUSE This casual bar and eatery focuses on global cuisine and handcrafted cocktails. Inside the large industrial space, you’ll find salads, flatbreads and entrées such as garam masala-dusted scallops with jeweled couscous and Moroccan spice-rubbed flat iron steak. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 4839 Newport Ave., Ocean Beach, 619.222.1700. $$$ Map J8 THE PRADO Its dramatic garden patio is lovely, and the eclectic American menu is spiked with Latin/Italian flair. L (daily), D (Tu-Su). 1549 El Prado, House of Hospitality, Balboa Park, 619.557.9441. $$$ Map O17 Q’ERO RESTAURANT A cozy Peruvian restaurant featuring regional classics such as lomo saltado and the signature beverage, chicha morada, made from purple corn. L (Tu-Sa), D (M-Sa). 564 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.753.9050. $$ Map V22 QUEENSTOWN PUBLIC HOUSE Salads, burgers and specialties like fish ‘n’ chips rule the menu at this New Zealand-inspired eatery. Weekend brunch includes chicken ’n’ waffles and sangria. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1557 Columbia St., Little Italy, 619.546.0444. $$ Map P15 REI DO GADO Brazilian-style steakhouse serves succulent mesquite-cooked beef and pork, brought tableside on skewers until you tell them to stop. L, D (daily). 939 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.702.8464. $$$ Map Q16 SOLTAN BANOO Eclectic, casual Persian restaurant featuring lamb, beef, vegan and curry dishes with fragrant basmati rice. L (daily), D (nightly). 4645 Park Blvd., University Heights, 619.298.2801. $$ Map M18

Italian 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. $$ Map J12 ARRIVEDERCI Charming Hillcrest restaurant with sidewalk seating draws locals for its daily gnocchi. Sandwiches, pizzas, salads and wines also available. L, D (daily). 3845 Fourth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.299.6282. $$$ Map N16 BENCOTTO This mod spot in the Q building earns raves for simple but well-executed create-your-own pasta dishes and other Italian specialities. L, D (Tu-Su). 750 W. Fir St., Little Italy, 619.450.4786. $$$ Map P15 BICE Milanese authenticity from Chef Mario Cassineri in the heart of downtown; don’t miss the cheese and salumi bar. Great cocktails, too. D (nightly). 425 Island Ave., Gaslamp, 619.239.BICE. $$$ Map Q16 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 CAFFE BELLA ITALIA Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine made from scratch—ranging from wood-fired pizzas to veal scaloppini amid a cozy ambiance complete with a romantic dining patio. D (nightly). 1525 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach, 858.273.1224. $$ Map H8 CUCINA ENOTECA Located at Flower Hill Promenade, the stylish eatery features a rooftop patio and a Cali-Italian menu with antipasti, salads, pastas and artisanal pizzas; plus a retail wine shop. L (Tu-Su), D (nightly). 2730 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.704.4500. $$$ Map X22

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Dining CUCINA URBANA Crowded, chic hotspot features house-made pastas, pizzas, farm-to-table dishes, house-infused cocktails and wine shop. L (Tu-F), D (nightly). 505 Laurel St., Bankers Hill, 619.239.2222. $$$ Map O16 DAVANTI ENOTECA Lively hotspot serves rustic Italian shareable plates like mascarpone polenta, plus pasta, pizza and salumi. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1655 India St., Little Italy, 619.237.9606, Map P15; 12955 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.519.5060. $$$ Map X22 FLOUR & BARLEY Feast on brick oven-style pizzas with wood-fired crusts and house-made toppings, in addition to Italian-inspired appetizers, pasta dishes, panini and salads. Plus, handcrafted cocktails, seasonal beers and wine. L, D (daily). 789 W. Harbor Drive, downtown, 619.344.2900. $$$ Map K11 IL FORNAIO Authentic Italian recipes including excellent pasta, pizza and regional specialties paired with handmade breads. Coronado location has great bay views of the downtown skyline. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1555 Camino Del Mar #301, Del Mar, 858.755.8876, Map X22; 1333 First St., Coronado, 619.437.4911. $$$ Map L10 ISOLA PIZZA BAR Casually elegant restaurant and bar featuring a romantic back patio, sidewalk patio and hand-tossed pizzas baked in a stone wood-burning oven; plus pastas, antipasti and boutique wines. L, D (Tu-Su). 1526 India St., Little Italy, 619.255.4230. $$$ Map P15

BEST NEW BEER BEST BURGERS RESTAURANTS IN AMERICA IN AMERICA DRAFT Magazine

Eater National

BEST BEER RESTAURANT IN SAN DIEGO

BEST FAMILY-FRIENDLY DINING IN SAN DIEGO

West Coaster Magazine

San Diego Magazine

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. $$$ Map K8 OSTERIA PANEVINO This casual, Tuscan-inspired eatery conjures the sights, sounds and smells of the Old World right in the heart of the Gaslamp, and features rustic, farmhouse ambiance, a lengthy wine list and house-made bread and pastas. B, L, D (daily). 722 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.595.7959. $$ Map Q16 PIATTI Delicious pastas, pizza made from a stonehearth oven and other Italian faves near the ocean in La Jolla Shores. Elegant and family-friendly, with a quaint patio. L, D (daily); Br (Sa–Su). 2182 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, 858.454.1589. $$$ Map V20 PO PAZZO Italian for “a little crazy,” the menu at this Little Italy spot goes way beyond pasta, to steaks, seafood, veal and more. Enjoy hearty portions and live music on the weekends L, D (daily). 1917 India St., Little Italy, 619.238.1917. $$$ Map P15 TRATTORIA FANTASTICA Popular eatery serving Sicilian fare in a casual setting, with a charming patio in the back. Specialties include wood-fired pizza and red wine osso bucco. B, L, D (daily). 1735 India St., Little Italy, 619.234.1735. $$ Map P15 TRATTORIA I TRULLI Superb pasta and sauces in a rustic setting featuring more than 100 wines. The créme brûlée shouldn’t be missed. L, D (daily). 830 S. Coast Hwy. 101, #100, Encinitas, 760.943.6800. $$ Map V22

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Dining

voted best seafood

VIGILUCCI’S RISTORANTE Dine on spaghetti alla carbonara, chicken piccata and antipasti; plus prime steaks and seafood—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. $$$ Map T22 VIVACE Marvelous Northern Italian cuisine with a California twist made fresh using organic ingredients at this gorgeous restaurant at the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort. D (M-Sa), Br (Su). 7100 Four Seasons Point, Carlsbad, 760.603.6999. $$$$ Map U22

Japanese AZUKI SUSHI Seemingly a hole in the wall from the street view, but inside lies a charming eatery and sushi bar with an airy back patio. Excellent, expertly prepared sushi and specialty rolls. L (M-F), D (nightly). 2321 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.238.4760. $$$ Map O16

built in 1887 next to the hotel del coronado

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 (M-Sa), D (nightly). 2958 Madison St., Carlsbad, 760.434.4959. $$$ Map T22

Classic and Contemporary Seafood · Sustainable Lunch · Dinner · Brunch · Happy Hour · Kids Menu Full Bar · Patio · Pet Friendly · Ample Free Parking

come in, get hooked

1701 STRAND WAY CORONADO TEL 619 435

0155

bluewatergrill.com

BLUE SMOKE SUSHI LOUNGE Fashion Valley Mall’s stylish eatery features signature sushi rolls and tapas-style Japanese dishes in a modern dining environment; plus wine, beer and sake. L, D (daily). 7007 Friars Road, #336, Fashion Valley, 619.291.7711. $$ Map M16 CAFÉ JAPENGO Bustling atmosphere attracts a hip after-work crowd to this upscale spot specializing in artistic sushi and cocktails. L (M–F), D (nightly). 8960 University Center Lane, La Jolla/Golden Triangle, 858.450.3355. $$$ 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. $$ Map S22 NOBU The hotspot at Hard Rock Hotel serves authentic sushi and excellent miso black cod. D (nightly). 207 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.814.4124. $$$$ Map Q16 SHINO SUSHI + KAPPO A modest sushi nook focusing on authentic, superior-quality sushi versus fussy creations. Try the seared hirame with walnuts, fried garlic and citrus; as well as the specialty rolls. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Su). 838 W. Ash St., Little Italy, 619.255.2527. $$$ 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. $$$ Map Q16 UNDERBELLY Build your own noodle creations from toppings such as bacon-wrapped mushrooms, beef brisket and kimchee octopus at this hip, casual ramen bar. L, D (daily). 750 Fir St., Little Italy, 619.269.4626, Map P15; 3000 Upas St., North Park, 619. 487.9909. $$ Map J12 ZENBU Innovative sushi rolls and sashimi crafted from line-caught fish brought in by the owner’s personal fleet of fishing boats. Ask the staff about special off-the-menu rolls. D (nightly). 2003 San Elijo Ave., Cardiff-by-the-Sea, 760.633.2223. $$$ Map W22

Mexican/Southwestern AGAVE DEL MAR Enjoy authentic gourmet Mexican cuisine with an ocean view. Specialty dishes include traditional mole and sea bass Veracruz. Plus, an extensive selection of tequila and daily happy hour specials (M-Th 3-7 p.m.; F-Sa 3-6 p.m.; all day Su). L, D (daily). 1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.793.0758. $$ Map X22

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Dining 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 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. $$ Map M14 CANDELAS Find skyline views, tequila prawns flambé over ahi tuna, and Mexico City-inspired dishes at this romantic nouvelle Mexican spot overlooking the bay. C L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 1201 First St., #115, Coronado, 619.435.4900. $$$ Map L10 M

EN FUEGO Lively Mexican restaurant and bar with traY ditional dishes such as empanadas, tamales and seafood; plus mojitos and margaritas. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1342 CM Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.6551. $$ Map X22 MY

MIGUEL’S COCINA This family-owned restaurant chain dates back to 1982. Each location has its own breezy vibe, CY but all serve Miguel’s seriously addictive queso dip. L, D (daily); Br (Su, also Sa in Coronado). 2912 Shelter Island CMY Drive, Shelter Island, 619.224.2401, Map K9; 1351 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.4237, Map L10; 2444 San Diego K Ave., Old Town, 619.298.9840. $$ Map N13 OLD TOWN MEXICAN CAFÉ This Old Town staple is famous for its handmade tortillas, which you can see being made fresh daily through the restaurant’s front window. A festive atmosphere and traditional Mexican dishes await inside. B, L, D (daily). 2489 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.297.4330. $ Map N13 PUESTO The organic, taco-laden menu boasts potato soy chorizo tacos and lobster tacos with black beans and crispy onions. Plus specialty cocktails, beer, wine and an array of high-end tequila and mezcal. L, D (daily). 789 W. Harbor Drive, #155, downtown, 619.233.8880, Map K11; 1026 Wall St., La Jolla, 858.454.1260. $$ Map W19

Seafood BLUE POINT COASTAL CUISINE Enjoy Californiastyle seafood and fresh oysters, as well as blue crab and white truffle mac ‘n’ cheese. Hip martini bar with plenty of specialty cocktails and decadent desserts, too. D (nightly). 565 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.6623. $$$$ Map Q16 BLUEWATER BOATHOUSE SEAFOOD GRILL Located right over the water in the historical former boathouse of the Hotel del Coronado, this classic fish house features fresh, sustainable seafood, house-made chowders and an oyster bar. L, D (daily). 1701 Strand Way, Coronado, 619.435.0155. $$ Map L10 THE BRIGANTINE Popular chain with a rollicking happy hour, steaks and chops is known for its fish tacos, swordfish and oyster bars. L, D (daily); Br (Su at Del Mar and Coronado). 2725 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.224.2871, Map K8; 3263 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.481.1166, Map X22; 1333 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.4166. $$ Map L10 DUKE’S LA JOLLA You’ll be filled with the Aloha spirit at this new island outpost—named for the father of modern day surfing, Duke Kahanamoku. The Hawaii-based chain is known for its seasonal, fresh fish and seafood, choice steaks, tropical cocktails and vibrant atmosphere. Save room for the Kimo’s Hula Pie. L, D (daily). 1216 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.5888. $$$ Map W19

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Dining EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD Find seafood classics like shrimp cocktail, ahi tartare and lobster bisque, plus 28-day-aged prime center-cut steaks. The La Jolla locale boasts beautiful views of the La Jolla Cove and coastline; while the new downtown flagship features live jazz nightly. D (nightly). 1270 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.459.5500, Map W19; 789 W. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.615.0281. $$$$ Map Q15 FISH 101 Casual eatery serves sustainable, seasonal catches and shellfish. Mains range from grilled and fried fish plates to sandwiches to an Angus burger. Plus salads, oysters and soft-serve ice cream. L, D (Tu-Su). 1468 N. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.943.6221. $$ Map V22 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 dining and an expanded wine list. L, D (daily). 750 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.232.3474, Map Q15; 640 Via de la Valle, Solana Beach, 858.755.2277. $$ Map W22 HUMPHREYS RESTAURANT Yacht-club views with bayside seafood like sauteed Georges bank scallops and pepper-crusted king salmon. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). 2241 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.224.3577. $$$ Map K8 IRONSIDE FISH & OYSTER Dine on seafood-focused plates, such as lobster rolls, daily fresh catches and fried oyster sliders, and sip on custom cocktails at this raw bar, bakery and restaurant. Raw bar stays open till midnight (till 2 a.m. F-Sa). L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1654 India St., Little Italy, 619.269.3033. $$$ Map P15 ISLAND PRIME Seafood, steak, salads, cocktails and dreamy views of the skyline. Adjacent C Level Lounge on the spacious deck is popular with the after-work crowd. L (daily at C Level only), D (nightly). 880 Harbor Island Drive, Harbor Island, 619.298.6802. $$$ Map J10 MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S Stylish seafood chain is located in the Omni Hotel. Fresh catches include some local selections such as swordfish and albacore from nearby Catalina Island. B, L, D (daily). 675 L St., downtown, 619.645.6545. $$$ Map Q16 THE OCEANAIRE SEAFOOD ROOM Retro oceanliner design features a bustling cocktail scene with oyster bar. (Try a dirty vodka martini with a selection of oysters on the half shell.) Market-fresh seafood and regionally inspired dishes star on the daily-changing menu. D (nightly). 400 J St., Gaslamp, 619.858.2277. $$$ Map Q16

2958 MADISON ST, CARLSBAD, CA 92008

“The Pinnacle of Pancakes” -San Diego Magazine

OSETRA Indulge in caviar, vodka and oysters at this progressive eatery, whose interior is defined by a threestory wine tower. Prime-aged meats are also on the menu. D (nightly). 904 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.239.1800. $$$ Map Q16 PACIFIC COAST GRILL Reopened as a new restaurant plopped literally right on the beach, Pacific Coast Grill epitomizes casual-chic coastal dining. Locals love the lobster tacos, and the view is the stuff of California dreams. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 2526 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Cardiff-by-theSea, 760.479.0721. $$$ Map V22  PACIFICA DEL MAR Upscale, ocean-view, Asian fusion spot attracts a power crowd with mustard catfish and sugar-spiced salmon. Visit the vodka bar with more than 160 selections. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.0476. $$$ Map X22

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

PEOHE’S Tropical décor with spectacular water views and Pacific Rim plates like crispy wok-fried whole bass and fire shrimp. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 1201 First St., Coronado, 619.437.4474. $$$ Map K10 POSEIDON RESTAURANT Its beachfront deck offers unrivaled views. Dinner entrées such as lemon peppercrusted diver scallops make up the contemporary, eclectic menu. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1670 Coast Blvd., Del Mar, 858.755.9345. $$$ Map X22

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Dining SALLY’S This marina-facing venue at the Manchester Grand Hyatt is one of San Diego’s best-kept secrets. The seafood-heavy menu includes fresh creations such as diver scallops and crab cakes with tomato relish and avocado aioli. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1 Market Place, Embar cadero, 619.358.6740. $$$ Map Q15 SIRENA Sample gourmet seafood dishes with an exotic twist at this casual eatery. The Latin American-inspired menu features salads, small plates and a raw bar serving up oysters, ceviche and seafood rolls. Standout mains include the grilled octopus and braised scallops in a coconut-ginger sauce. D (Tu-Su), L (Sa-Su). 1901 Columbia St., Little Italy, 619.564.8970. $$ Map P15

Steak COWBOY STAR With barstools upholstered in cowhide, this stylish downtown steakhouse is decked out in Old West adornments. Don’t miss the buttermilk-fried sweetbreads, excellent meat selections and well-crafted cocktails. L (Tu-F), D (Tu-Su). 640 10th Ave., East Village, 619.450.5880. $$$ Map Q17 DONOVAN’S STEAK & CHOP HOUSE The power crowd noshes on huge portions of prime steaks, chops and seafood paired with award-winning wine in a sophisticated atmosphere. D (nightly; M-Sa at La Jolla). 1250 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.450.6666, Map T21; 570 K St., Gaslamp, 619.237.9700. $$$ Map R16 FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR Upscale steakhouse with prime steaks, seafood, hearty side dishes, classic desserts and an acclaimed wine list (with more than 100 choices by the glass). Elegant, sophisticated ambiance with romantic lighting, plus exceptional service. D (nightly). 8970 University Center Lane, La Jolla, 858.535.0078, Map T21; 380 K St., Gaslamp, 619.237.1155. $$$$ Map Q16 FOGO DE CHÃO Meat is king at this expansive Brazilian steakhouse where gaucho chefs serve 16 cuts of grilled meat via continuous tableside service. Plus a gourmet salad bar, traditional side dishes and a happy hour menu with smaller bites. L (M-F), D (nightly). 668 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.338.0500. $$$ Map Q16 GREYSTONE, THE STEAKHOUSE Prime steaks, seafood (try the Dover sole prepared tableside) and pastas in a great downtown location. Beefy menu includes filet mignon potstickers, Kobe carpaccio and more. D (nightly). 658 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.232.0225. $$$ Map Q16 MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE USDA prime-aged beef, seafood, an excellent wine list, cocktails, decadent desserts, crisp white linens and great service at the edge of the historical Gaslamp Quarter. D (nightly). 285 J St., downtown, 619.696.3369. $$$$ Map Q16 STAKE CHOPHOUSE & BAR Modern steakhouse with a luxe vibe features a wide variety of steaks—including rare cuts such as wagyu and Kobe—as well as seafood; plus a 2,000-bottle glass wine cellar. D (nightly). 1309 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.522.0077. $$$ Map L10 VIGILUCCI’S SEAFOOD & STEAKHOUSE Italianinfluenced chop house with beach views features steaks, chicken, veal, fresh catches, oysters (baked and on the half shell), salads and fresh pastas such as the classic capellini checca. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 3878 Carlsbad Blvd., Carlsbad, 760.434.2580. $$$ Map T22

Thai LOTUS THAI Elegant bamboo décor and modern Thai cuisine, with authentic dishes from Bangkok, Chiang Mai and north 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 fabulous vegetarian options, including mock chicken and marinated tofu satay skewers. Dine under sparkling chandeliers surrounded by subtle floral décor. L, D (daily). 4661 Park Blvd., University Heights, 619.269.9989. $$ Map M18 SAFFRON San Diego’s first authentic Thai restaurant is known for its healthy saffron-marinated rotisserie chicken, Thai noodles and fragrant soups. Quick-service counter and casual ambiance. L, D (daily). 3731 India St., Mission Hills, 619.574.7737. $ Map J10 SPICE & RICE THAI KITCHEN Local favorite offers creative twist on Thai in specialties like Panang curry duck, crispy chicken with red curry, and spicy chili halibut. L (M–Sa), D (nightly). 7734 Girard Ave., La Jolla, 858.456.0466. $$ Map W19

The Restaurlaeenpts! that Never S 24 HOURS / 7 DAYS

TASTE OF THAI Delicious Thai food in a charming space with a sidewalk patio. Try the Tom Yum soup and yellow curry with spicy fried rice, followed by the fried bananas with coconut ice for dessert. L, D (daily). 527 University Ave., Hillcrest, 619.291.7525. $$ Map N16

Wine Bars

A WEEK!

COUNTERPOINT Friendly neighborhood wine bar serves artisanal cheeses, salads, a burger, 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. $$ Map Q18 M WINEHOUSE Enjoy international wines, beers and bubbly at this quaint wine bar in the heart of Little Italy. Plus happy hour specials (M-F), bottomless mimosas (122 Sa and Su) and “Sake Sundays.” Open daily. 1918 India St., Little Italy, 619.546.4226. $$ Map P15 THE ROSE An earthy, restored 1927 building, constructed with the reclaimed redwood of a historical South Park home, this intimate neighborhood wine bar also offers craft beer, light bites and wine storage. 2219 30th St., South Park, 619.280.1815. $$ Map J12 WE OLIVE Olive oil tasting room also includes coastalview wine bar featuring California wines and tastings of gourmet food items, plus specialty gifts. Great spot for happy hour, featuring discounted cheese plates and other gourmet nibbles, plus wines by the glass. L, D (daily). 1158 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.551.8250. $$ Map W19

Downtown San Diego’s Only Full-Service 24-Hour Restaurant $9.99 Lunch Specials: Mon – Fri /11 am – 4 pm Daily Happy Hour: 4 pm – 7 pm / Full Bar Available (619) 702-8410 • 828 6th Ave (between E & F) www.Brians24.com

THE WINE LOVER Parisian-inspired wine shop and bar features an outdoor patio, international wines, gourmet cheeses and imported olives. L (Tu-Su), D (nightly). 3968 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.294.9200. $$$ Map N16 WINE STEALS Vino, cheeses, pizzas and charcuterie; plus a wine retail shop with 300 bottles. Relaxed neighborhood vibe at all three locations. Open daily. 1953 San Elijo Ave., Cardiff-by-the-Sea, 760.230.2657, Map W22; 1243 University Ave., Hillcrest, 619.295.1188. $$ Map N17 WINE VAULT & BISTRO Romantic bistro serves fivecourse, set-menu wine dinners every Saturday. Food ranges from Italian to French to California, depending on the night. D (Th-Sa). 3731-A India St., Mission Hills, 619.295.3939. $$ Map N14

where?

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SDDINING WE OLIVE AND WINE BAR Pretty much everything about We Olive is good enough to eat. An olive oil tasting room and much more, the epicurean specialty market overlooking La Jolla Cove features a coastalview wine bar with a well-curated selection of California wines and artisanal dishes. Make a meal out of the Caprese Panini with roasted tomato, basil pesto and fresh mozzarella; the cheese and charcuterie plate featuring We Olive mustard; and the spinach flatbread topped with roasted tomato and black olive tapenade—among many other savory delights. Happy hour is also prime time to visit, with discounted wines by the glass, craft beer, cheese plates and gourmet bites. And the best part: Many menu ingredients are available for purchase in the retail store. L, D (daily). 1158 Prospect St., La Jolla 858.551.8250 • weolive.com/lajolla

GREEN DRAGON TAVERN & MUSEUM This New England-style tavern is truly one of a kind. Inside, cozy up to the full bar featuring craft cocktails, wine, 20 craft beers on tap and great happy hour specials. Feast on American comfort cuisine that ranges from their famous New England clam chowder to the Paul Revere burger made with house-cured bacon. The lobster rolls are also exceptional; try the Connecticut roll with warm lobster poached in butter and herbs, or the California with Maine lobster, lemon-anchovy aioli, candied maple bacon, dried mango and avocado. Stop by the admission-free museum to check out authentic Colonial Era artifacts. L, D (daily); Br (Su).

6115 Paseo del Norte, Carlsbad 760.918.2421 • greendragontavernca.com

CAFFE BELLA ITALIA This isn’t your average spaghetti ‘n’ meatballs joint. Inside this romantic, casually elegant haven, savor authentic Italian and modern Neapolitan cuisine made from scratch. Chef and owner Pasquale Corsicato—a native of Napoli who owns restaurants in Italy—is passionate about his craft, and it shows. Feast on organic, non-GMO dishes ranging from wood-fired pizzas to homemade lobster ravioli, veal scaloppine and seafood dishes that change daily. There’s something for everyone here: The heated indoor dining space is perfect for private parties and corporate events, while the cozy outdoor dining patio welcomes canine guests. There’s even a fun kids’ menu to keep the little ones happy. D (nightly).

1525 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach 858.273.1224 • caffebellaitalia.com

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SDDINING M WINEHOUSE A charming, intimate haven to begin or end your evening, M Winehouse is a Gothic Victorian home built in 1888 that has been relocated and transformed into a cozy wine bar loved by visitors and locals alike. Owner Ruth Melero has curated an extensive global wine and beer list that includes Kermit Lynch imported wines from France among its international labels. Choose from an excellent selection of wines by the glass— including Burgundy, Grand Cru and Sancerre—plus sake and bubbles; and nosh on artisanal charcuterie and cheese platters. Enjoy specials throughout the week, including weekday happy hour from 3 to 6 pm, and 30 percent off select bottles of wine every Wednesday. The quaint, beautifully decorated space accommodates private events and parties. Call for more details. 1918 India St., Little Italy 619.546.4226 • mwinehouse.com

CAFÉ LA RUE This casual bistro and bar on Prospect Street consists of the most delicious menage a trois: Friends, Food & Wine. Experience handcrafted cocktails, premium libations and modern European cuisine by Executive Chef James Montejano. Inside the newly remodeled people-watching café, you’ll find terrazzo floors, Venetian plaster ceilings, a glass-enclosed wine vault, large bar and original 1940’s paintings by La Valencia Hotel legend, Wing Howard. Not to miss is Café la Rue’s signature “Locals’ Hour” featuring half-priced appetizers, beer and wine every day from 3 pm to 7 pm. Café la Rue also offers a dog-friendly patio and “Yappy Hour” the 2nd Wednesday of each month from 5:30 pm to 7 pm. La Rue opens daily at 8 am for breakfast, and all-day dining begins at 11 am. B, L, D (daily). 1132 Prospect St., La Jolla 858.454.0771 • cafelaruelav.com

THE FRENCH GOURMET Freshly baked breads and pastries beckon from gleaming glass cases as you step inside this locals’ favorite—a quaint, relaxed restaurant, bakery, and wine shop. The restaurant, featuring California-influenced French cuisine, offers a three-course, prix fixe dinner menu for $27.95. Appetizers include a housemade pâté sampler (duck, chicken liver, and country), escargots and charcuterie; with entrées ranging from duck confit to rack of lamb to vegetarian ratatouille. The French Gourmet also offers full-service and pick-up catering; competitively priced vintage wines and champagnes in its wine boutique; artisanal sandwiches, cheeses, charcuterie, and desserts to-go from the bakery. Reservations recommended. B, L (daily); D (Tu-Su).

960 Turquoise St., San Diego 858.488.1725 • thefrenchgourmet.com

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RESTAURANTS City Index Our superguide by area, with cross reference to listings by cuisine.

GASLAMP QUARTER BARLEYMASH (American)..................................................................... 34 BICE (Italian).................................................................................................. 39 BLUE POINT (Seafood)............................................................................ 42 BRIAN’S 24 (Breakfast)............................................................................ 35 DONOVAN’S (Steak)............................................................................... 44 FLEMING’S (Steak).................................................................................... 44 FOGO DE CHÃO (Steak)...................................................................... 44 GREYSTONE (Steak)................................................................................ 44

THE COTTAGE (Breakfast).................................................................... 35 CUSP (California Cuisine) ........................................................................... 36 DONOVAN’S (Steak)............................................................................... 44 DUKE’S LA JOLLA (Seafood).............................................................. 42 EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD (Seafood)...................................... 43 FLEMING’S (Steak).................................................................................... 44 GEORGE’S AT THE COVE (California Cuisine)............................ 36 HERRINGBONE (American).................................................................. 34 MARINE ROOM (French)....................................................................... 38

NORTH COASTAL BEACH GRASS CAFÉ (Breakfast)..................................................... 35 BLUEFIRE GRILL (California Cuisine)................................................... 36 BLUE OCEAN ROBATA & SUSHI BAR (Japanese)................ 41 CHART HOUSE (American)................................................................... 34 CRAFTSMAN TAVERN (American)................................................... 34 FISH 101 (Seafood)..................................................................................... 43 THE FISH MARKET (Seafood)............................................................. 43 THE FLYING PIG (California Cuisine).................................................. 36

THE MED (American)................................................................................ 34

GREEN DRAGON TAVERN (American)........................................ 34

NINE-TEN (California Cuisine)................................................................. 37

HARNEY SUSHI (Japanese)................................................................... 41

PIATTI (Italian)............................................................................................... 40

PACIFIC COAST GRILL (Seafood)..................................................... 43

PUESTO (Mexican/Southwestern).......................................................... 42

PAMPLEMOUSSE GRILLE (French)................................................. 38

RICHARD WALKER’S PANCAKE HOUSE (Breakfast)......... 35

Q’ERO RESTAURANT (International)............................................... 39

SPICE & RICE (Thai)................................................................................. 45

SOLACE (American)................................................................................... 34

WHISKNLADLE (California Cuisine)..................................................... 37

TRATTORIA I TRULLI (Italian)............................................................. 40

WE OLIVE (Wine Bars).............................................................................. 45

UNION KITCHEN & TAP (American).............................................. 35

TAKA (Japanese)........................................................................................... 41

MISSION BAY/BEACHES

VIGILUCCI’S SEAFOOD & STEAKHOUSE (Steak).............. 44

UNION KITCHEN & TAP (American).............................................. 35

BO-BEAU (French)...................................................................................... 38

DOWNTOWN/EAST VILLAGE/EMBARCADERO

CAFFE BELLA ITALIA (Italian)............................................................ 39

JSIX (California Cuisine)............................................................................... 36 MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S (Seafood) ...................................... 43 NOBU (Japanese)......................................................................................... 41 THE OCEANAIRE (Seafood)................................................................. 43 OSETRA (Seafood)...................................................................................... 43 OSTERIA PANEVINO (Italian)............................................................ 40 REI DO GADO (International)............................................................... 39 SEARSUCKER (American)....................................................................... 34

THE BLIND BURRO (Mexican/Southwestern) . .............................. 42 CAFÉ 222 (Breakfast)................................................................................ 35 CAFÉ CHLOE (French)............................................................................. 38

COSTA BRAVA (International)............................................................... 38 ISABEL’S CANTINA (Breakfast)........................................................... 35 JRDN (California Cuisine)............................................................................ 36 THE MISSION (Breakfast)....................................................................... 35

VIGILUCCI’S RISTORANTE (Italian)............................................... 41 VIVACE (Italian)........................................................................................... 41 WINE STEALS (Wine Bars)..................................................................... 45 ZENBU (Japanese)....................................................................................... 41

HILLCREST/NORTH PARK/ MISSION HILLS/SOUTH PARK

OB WAREHOUSE (International)........................................................ 39

100 WINES (French).................................................................................. 38

THE PATIO ON LAMONT (California Cuisine).............................. 37

ALEXANDER’S (Italian) ......................................................................... 39

EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD (Seafood)...................................... 43

HARBOR /SHELTER/POINT LOMA

ARRIVEDERCI (Italian)............................................................................ 39

THE FISH MARKET (Seafood) ............................................................ 43

BALI HAI (Eclectic/Fusion)........................................................................ 37

FLOUR & BARLEY (Italian) . ................................................................ 40

THE BRIGANTINE (Seafood)................................................................ 42

GRANT GRILL (California Cuisine)........................................................ 36

HUMPHREY’S RESTAURANT (Seafood)....................................... 43

HALF DOOR BREWING CO. (American)..................................... 34

ISLAND PRIME (Seafood)....................................................................... 43

HORNBLOWER (American)................................................................... 34

JIMMY’S TAVERN (American)............................................................. 34

LOTUS THAI (Thai)................................................................................... 44

MIGUEL’S COCINA (Mexican/Southwestern).................................. 42

THE MISSION (Breakfast)....................................................................... 35

OLD VENICE (Italian)............................................................................... 40

MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE (Steak)................................... 44

EAT AT THE PEARL (California Cuisine)............................................ 36

NEIGHBORHOOD (American)............................................................ 34

SLATER’S 50/50 (American) ................................................................ 34

PUESTO (Mexican/Southwestern).......................................................... 42

CORONADO

MISTER A’S (American)............................................................................ 34

1500 OCEAN (California Cuisine)......................................................... 35

PLUMERIA (Thai)....................................................................................... 45

COUNTERPOINT (Wine Bars).............................................................. 45 COWBOY STAR (Steak)......................................................................... 44

RICHARD WALKER’S PANCAKE HOUSE (Breakfast)......... 35 SALLY’S (Seafood)....................................................................................... 44 TOP OF THE MARKET (Seafood)..................................................... 43

BLUEWATER BOATHOUSE (Seafood)........................................... 42

LITTLE ITALY

THE BRIGANTINE (Seafood)................................................................ 42

BURGER LOUNGE (California Cuisine).............................................. 36

BENCOTTO (Italian)................................................................................. 39

CANDELAS (Mexican/Southwestern)................................................... 42

BURGER LOUNGE (California Cuisine).............................................. 36

IL FORNAIO (Italian)................................................................................ 40

DAVANTI ENOTECA (Italian)............................................................. 40

LEROY’S KITCHEN (California Cuisine)............................................. 37

IRONSIDE FISH & OYSTER (Seafood)........................................... 43

MIGUEL’S COCINA (Mexican/Southwestern).................................. 42

INDIGO GRILL (Eclectic/Fusion)........................................................... 37

STAKE CHOPHOUSE (Steak)............................................................. 44

ISOLA PIZZA BAR (Italian)................................................................... 40

VIGILUCCI’S RISTORANTE (Italian)............................................... 41

JUNIPER & IVY (California Cuisine)..................................................... 36

DEL MAR/RANCHO SANTA FE

KETTNER EXCHANGE (American).................................................. 34 M WINEHOUSE (Wine Bar) ................................................................. 45 MONELLO (Italian) ................................................................................... 40 PO PAZZO (Italian).................................................................................... 40 PREPKITCHEN (California Cuisine)....................................................... 37 QUEENSTOWN PUBLIC HOUSE (International)...................... 39 SHINO SUSHI + KAPPO (Japanese)............................................... 41 SIRENA (Seafood)........................................................................................ 44 TRATTORIA FANTASTICA (Italian)................................................. 40 UNDERBELLY (Japanese)........................................................................ 41 WINE VAULT & BISTRO (Wine Bars)............................................... 45

LA JOLLA

AZUKI SUSHI (Japanese) . ...................................................................... 41 BANKERS HILL (American).................................................................... 34 BLEU BOHEME (French) ....................................................................... 38 BROOKLYN GIRL (American)............................................................... 34 BUONA FORCHETTA (Italian)........................................................... 39 CUCINA URBANA (Italian).................................................................. 40 GREAT MAPLE (California Cuisine)...................................................... 36 HASH HOUSE A GO GO (Breakfast)............................................. 35 LOTUS THAI (Thai)................................................................................... 44 THE MISSION (Breakfast)....................................................................... 35

THE PATIO ON GOLDFINCH (California Cuisine)...................... 37 THE PRADO (International).................................................................... 39 THE ROSE (Wine Bars) ............................................................................ 45 SAFFRON (Thai)......................................................................................... 45 THE SMOKING GOAT (French) . ...................................................... 38 SNOOZE (Breakfast).................................................................................. 35 SOLTAN BANOO (International) ........................................................ 39 STARLITE (California Cuisine) .................................................................. 37 STATION TAVERN (American)............................................................. 34 TASTE OF THAI (Thai)............................................................................ 45 TRACTOR ROOM (American).............................................................. 34

ADDISON (French)..................................................................................... 38

UNDERBELLY (Japanese)........................................................................ 41

AGAVE DEL MAR (Mexican/Southwestern)..................................... 41

URBAN SOLACE (American)................................................................ 35

ARTERRA (California Cuisine).................................................................. 36

WAYPOINT PUBLIC (California Cuisine)........................................... 37

THE BRIGANTINE (Seafood)................................................................ 42

THE WINE LOVER (Wine Bars)........................................................... 45

CUCINA ENOTECA (Italian)................................................................ 39

WINE STEALS (Wine Bars)..................................................................... 45

DAVANTI ENOTECA (Italian)............................................................. 40

OLD TOWN

EN FUEGO (Mexican/Southwestern).................................................... 42 IL FORNAIO (Italian)................................................................................ 40 KITCHEN 1540 (California Cuisine)...................................................... 37 MARKET (California Cuisine).................................................................... 37 MILLE FLEURS (French).......................................................................... 38 MOLA (International).................................................................................. 38

BERTA’S LATIN AMERICAN (International).................................. 38 CAFÉ COYOTE (Mexican/Southwestern).......................................... 42 HARNEY SUSHI (Japanese)................................................................... 41 JACK & GIULIO’S (Italian).................................................................... 40 MIGUEL’S COCINA (Mexican)............................................................. 42 OLD TOWN MEXICAN CAFÉ (Mexican)..................................... 42

BROCKTON VILLA (American)........................................................... 34

PACIFICA DEL MAR (Seafood)........................................................... 43

BURGER LOUNGE (California Cuisine).............................................. 36

POSEIDON (Seafood)............................................................................... 43

CAFÉ JAPENGO (Japanese)................................................................. 41

SEARSUCKER (American)....................................................................... 34

BLUE SMOKE SUSHI LOUNGE (Japanese)................................ 41

CAFÉ LA RUE (French)............................................................................ 38

SNOOZE (Breakfast).................................................................................. 35

STACKED (American)................................................................................ 34

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Entertainment Festivals + Special Events CARLSBAD FLOWER FIELDS March-May. Roam among 50 spectacular acres of blooming ranunculus flower bulbs during this six-week 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 ANZA-BORREGO WILDFLOWERS March-April. A visit to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park to hike the Palm Canyon Trail and see the spring wildflowers in full bloom makes for a lovely day trip. Late March and early April are ideal. 200 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs, 760.767.4205. Map A6 CRSSD March 5-6. Two-day electronic music festival on the bay features live music and DJ performances by more than two dozen artists on three stages, including Odesza, Chet Faker and Loco Dice, among many others. 21+. Waterfront Park, 1600 Pacific Highway, downtown, crssdfest.com. Map P15 SPRING BUSKER FESTIVAL March 5-6, noon-6 p.m. Head to Seaport Village for two days of live performances by contortionists, stilt walkers, fire-breathers, street performers, jugglers and other jaw-dropping entertainers. 849 W. Harbor Drive, Seaport Village along San Diego Bay, seaportvillage.com. Map Q15 SAN DIEGO LATINO FILM FESTIVAL March 10-20. Check out more than 160 feature and short films from Latin America, Mexico, Spain, the U.S., and other parts of the world in celebration of Latino film, history, art and culture. Plus celebrity appearances, musical performances, after-parties, filmmaker workshops and more. AMC Fashion Valley 18, 7037 Friars Road, Mission Valley, sdlatinofilm.com. Map M16 ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE AND FESTIVAL March 12, 9 a.m. (festival), 10:30 a.m. (parade). Festivities begin five days ahead of the official holiday; check out more than 120 parade entries, followed by an Irish festival including craft and food vendors, a beer garden, live music, dancing and kids’ activities. Juniper and Sixth Street, Balboa Park, stpatsparade.org. Map O16 SHAMROCK 2016 March 17, 4 p.m.-midnight. The Gaslamp turns green for its annual block party—featuring live DJs and Irish bands on multiple stages, plus Irish fare and drinks at dozens of participating bars and restaurants. 21+. F and G streets between Fifth and Seventh avenues; Sixth Avenue between E and G streets. Gaslamp Quarter, sandiegoshamrock.com. Map Q16 SAN DIEGO CREW CLASSIC REGATTA April 2-3. The country’s top competitive rowers gather at Mission Bay for a grueling competition, now in its 43rd 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 Los Angeles Dodgers (April 4-6), St. Louis Cardinals (April 22-24) and San Francisco Giants (May 17-19), among many others. Petco Park, East Village, sandiegopadres.com. Map Q16 LA JOLLA CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE April 8-10. Classic car enthusiasts can enjoy three days of fun at this community auto show, including a Rolls Roycethemed cocktail party (Friday), Tour d’Elegance (Saturday) and the Concours (Sunday), which features more than 300 vehicles parked along the Pacific. La Jolla Cove, Ellen Browning Scripps Park, 1133 Coast Blvd., La Jolla, lajollaconcours.com. Map W19 SAN DIEGO EARTHFAIR April 17, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. World’s largest annual environmental fair features 300+ educational exhibits, kids’ entertainment, food vendors and live music. Balboa Park, earthdayweb.org. Map O17

Guidelines

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

Index

Festivals ............................... 49 Attractions...........................56 Special Events..........................49 Museums.............................56 Theater................................. 50 Destination Shopping......58 Music + Dance...................54 Tours + Transport..............59

FALLBROOK AVOCADO FESTIVAL April 17, 9 a.m.5 p.m. Head to the “Avocado Capital of the World” in northeast San Diego County to celebrate and eat the best of the crop, including avocado-themed gifts, guacamole contests, live music and entertainment, beer gardens and plenty of food other than avocados. Downtown Fallbrook, fallbrookchamberofcommerce.org. Map A2 DEL MAR NATIONAL HORSE SHOW April 21-May 8. One of the oldest and most prestigious equestrian competitions in the Western U.S. features beautiful horses and various events for equine enthusiasts, including Western Week (April 21-24), Dressage Week (April 28-May 1) and Hunter/Jumper Week (May 3-8). Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar, delmarnational.com. Map X22 ART ALIVE April 29-May 1. 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, sdmart.org. Map O17 ADAMS AVENUE UNPLUGGED April 30-May 1. Enjoy more than 150 acoustic performances across 25 stages (both indoor and outdoor) as this stretch of Adams Avenue transforms into a block party showcasing blues, folk, jazz, country and world music, plus a bevy of local artists. Adams Avenue, between Texas Street in University Heights and Marlborough Drive in Kensington, adamsavenuebusiness.com. Map I12 MISSION FEDERAL ARTWALK April 30-May 1, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Little Italy transforms into the city’s largest urban art gallery and festival spanning 17 blocks for the 32nd year—packed with works by hundreds of talented emerging artists, a range of live music across multiple stages, food vendors and hands-on children’s activities. India Street, between Fir and Beech streets, Little Italy, artwalksandiego.org. Map P15 CARLSBAD VILLAGE FAIRE May 1, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Stroll among more than 900 vendors—from arts and crafts, to antiques, clothing, accessories, jewelry and food—at this one-day street festival. Carlsbad Village, Carlsbad, carlsbad.org. Map T23 GATOR BY THE BAY ZYDECO, BLUES & CRAWFISH FESTIVAL May 5-8. This family-friendly music and food festival features blues, Cajun and zydeco bands—more than 90 performances on 7 stages—free dance lessons, cooking demos and cultural and music workshops. Spanish Landing Park, 3900 N. Harbor Drive, Harbor Island, gatorbythebay.com. Map O13 JUNIOR LEAGUE OF SAN DIEGO FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL May 7, 1-5 p.m. Sample cocktails, gourmet bites, wine and craft beers from dozens of top local restaurants and beverage purveyors, and enjoy a viewing of the Kentucky Derby (hats and Derby attire encouraged). 21+. Ellen Browning Scripps Park, La Jolla Cove, jlsdfoodandwine.com. Map V19

Mural Mecca

Barrio Logan lights up this spring with the 46th annual Chicano Park Day. An often-overlooked (literally) cultural gem, Chicano Park sits beneath the Coronado Bridge overpass—an enclave for local artists and a proud community steeped in Mexican heritage. Founded in 1970, the park eventually housed 72 vibrant murals created by various artists throughout the 1970s and 1980s—making it the largest collection of outdoor murals in the U.S. A $1.6 million restoration project in 2011 returned many murals to their original glory. The free event includes traditional music and dance, concerts, a lowrider car show, food and art vendors, and workshops for kids. April 23, National Avenue and Evans Street, Barrio Logan, chicano-park.com

Looking for a refreshing dose of live music? The historical Balboa Theatre showcases an exceptional lineup of musicians of diverse genres this spring. p. 55

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Entertainment FIESTA OLD TOWN CINCO DE MAYO May 7-8. Head to historical Old Town for two days of festivities— including ballet folklorico, live music, children’s activities, a lowrider car show and tequila tastings—all celebrating Mexican heritage, culture and pride. Along San Diego Avenue and in Old Town Historic State Park, Old Town, oldtownsandiegoguide.com. Map M13 NORTH PARK FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS May 21, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. This 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 THE BOOK OF MORMON Through March 6. The Tony Award-winning blockbuster musical comedy follows the misadventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries, sent halfway across the world to spread the Good Word. Broadway/San Diego, Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100. Map Q16 THE LAST MATCH Through March 13. Anna Ziegler’s moving play journeys inside the minds of two extraordinary tennis players to reveal the lives that led to their defining US Open moment. White Theatre at the Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, 619.234.5623. Map O17 NOW OR LATER Through March 13. This politically provocative play takes on religion, freedom of expression and the dangers of an increasingly interconnected global community. Diversionary Theatre, 4545 Park Blvd., #101, University Heights, 619.220.0097. Map M18 NOW YOU SEE IT Through March 20. This outrageously funny farce takes audiences on a dizzying escapade fueled by jealousy bordering on paranoia, a philandering husband, hypnotism, a spurned lover and a scandalous discovery. North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987-D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach, 858.481.1055. Map X22 THE MIRACLE WORKER March 4-April 10. The story of Helen Keller and her remarkable teacher Anne Sullivan, in a fresh, powerful production of the American classic. Lamb’s Players Theatre, 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.6000. Map L10 R. BUCKMINSTER FULLER: THE HISTORY (AND MYSTERY) OF THE UNIVERSE March 10-April 3. A one-man tour-de-force that showcases the life, work and writings of one of the most remarkable minds of the 20th century. SD Rep at Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza, downtown, 619.544.1000. Map Q16 RICHARD O’BRIEN’S THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW March 10-May 1. Reality, fiction and camp collide in this satirical tribute to science-fiction and latenight horror movies. Cygnet Theatre, 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town, 619.337.1525. Map M13 THE WIZARD OF OZ March 15-20. Follow the yellow brick road with your favorite characters and beloved songs from the classic movie, plus new songs by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Broadway/San Diego, Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100. Map Q16 RAIN March 24-May 1. A brand-new musical adaptation of Somerset Maugham’s classic story that reveals the explosive nature of repressed desire, set in 1924 at a boarding hotel in Western Samoa. Contains strong language. Shiley Stage at the Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, 619.234.5623. Map O17

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CONSTELLATIONS April 9-May 8. This Broadway hit play takes a chance encounter between two lost souls and opens the door to the infinite possibilities of their relationship. Contains strong language. White Theatre at the Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, 619.234.5623. Map O17

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Entertainment WAY DOWNRIVER April 13-May 8. Adapted from William Faulkner’s short story, “Old Man,” this powerful play presented by North Coast Rep follows an unlikely pair of souls bound together by the forces of nature, as they struggle to overcome their fears and prejudice in order to survive. North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987-D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach, 858.481.1055. Map X22

A UNIQUE SAN DIEGO EXPERIENCE

RUPTURE, BLISTER, BURN April 21-May 15. In this smart and funny comedy, three generations of American women debate on how women’s lives have and have not changed since the 1970s. SD Rep at Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza, downtown, 619.544.1000. Map Q16

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DINNER WITH MARLENE April 22-May 29. Based on actual events, singer/movie star Marlene Dietrich and a fascinating assortment of artists, writers and socialites gather for a dinner party in 1938 Paris. Lamb’s Players Theatre, 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.6000. Map L10 HOLLYWOOD May/June. Based on the true story of famed director William Desmond Taylor’s unsolved murder, this world-premiere play is a noir thriller set in the Golden Age of movies. Mandell Weiss Theatre at the La Jolla Playhouse, 2910 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla, 858.550.1010. Map T20 THE BOY WHO DANCED ON AIR May 5-June 12. Set in Afghanistan, this brave and compelling new musical reveals a country teetering on collapse, torn between the past and the future, and the indomitable strength of the human spirit. Diversionary Theatre, 4545 Park Blvd., #101, University Heights, 619.220.0097. Map M18 CAMP DAVID May 13-June 19. Based on the historic Camp David Accords signed between Israel and Egypt in 1978, this new play by Pulitzer Prize-winner Lawrence Wright is a riveting and moving story about peace in the Middle East—filled with humor, insight and surprises that are relevant nearly 40 years later. Shiley Stage at the Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, 619.234.5623. Map O17 STUPID F**KING BIRD May 19-June 19. This irreverent, contemporary and funny remix of Chekhov’s The Seagull wages a timeless battle between young and old, past and present, in search of the true meaning of it all. Cygnet Theatre in Old Town, 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town, 619.337.1525. Map M13

Music + Dance + Performances ARTPOWER! AT UC SAN DIEGO Music, dance, art and film series at UC San Diego. March 3: Noura Mint Seymali (music); March 4: Meccore String Quartet (chamber); March 31: Man for a Day (film); April 2: José James (jazz); April 20: Christopher O’Riley: True Love Waits: The Music of Radiohead (music); April 21: Christopher O’Riley and the New York Chamber Soloists (chamber); April 27: Ester Rada (music); May 11: DakhaBrakha (music); May 12: Alicia Olatuja (music); May 20: Idan Cohen Dance Company: Gender Bender. Various locations around UC San Diego campus, artpwr.com. Map T20 ATHENAEUM MUSIC AND ARTS LIBRARY March 7: Michael Blake Tiddy Boom Quartet (jazz); March 16: Dover String Quartet (chamber); March 21: Aizuri Quartet (chamber); April 8: Mark Goffeney of Big Toe, Israel Maldonado, Raelee Nikole (acoustic); April 9: Jiayan Sun (piano); April 22: Eve Selis, Trails and Rails, Guiro Grass (acoustic); April 29: Tolan Shaw, Charbra, Nancy Truesdail (acoustic). 1008 Wall St., La Jolla, 858.454.5872. Map W19 Jazz at TSRI: March 7: Luciana Souza: Speaking in Tongues; April 15: Kenny Barron Trio. The Auditorium at The Scripps Research Institute, 10620 John Jay Hopkins Drive, La Jolla, ljathenaeum.org. Map S20

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Their world awaits... At La Jolla’s renowned Birch Aquarium.

Entertainment BALBOA THEATRE March 1: Joe Satriani; March 2: Sarah Koenig and Julie Snyder: Binge-Worthy Journalism; March 3: Lewis Black; March 5: ABBA Mania; March 6: C.S. Lewis’ The Screwtape Letters; March 12-13: California Ballet presents Romeo and Juliet; March 20: Clifford The Big Red Dog Live!; March 23: David Crosby; March 29-April 3: RAIN: A Tribute to The Beatles; April 7: Elvis Costello; April 16: Lily Tomlin; April 17: Anoushka Shankar; April 23-24: San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus presents California Dreamin’; May 15: Alton Brown Live: Eat Your Science. 868 Fourth Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100, sandiegotheatres.org. Map Q16 CALIFORNIA CENTER FOR THE ARTS, ESCONDIDO March 2: Highland Way; March 15: José González with yMusic (sold out); March 19: Center Children’s and Youth Chorus; March 20: Coastal Cities Jazz Band; March 23: Jowapao Live!; March 26: Hawaiian Slack Key Concert and Hula Show with Kawika Kahiapo, Jerry Santos and Kawaikapu Hewett; April 1: Patty Griffin, Sara Watkins and Anaïs Mitchell; April 3: Third Annual Mariachi Festival feat. Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles; April 6: Flamenco Arana; April 7: Jake Shimabukuro; April 14: Aspen Santa Fe Ballet; May 1: Civic Youth Orchestra; May 4: Fanny & The Atta Boys; May 8: Alec Holcomb. 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido, 800.988.4253, artcenter.org. Map B3 CIVIC THEATRE March 11: Lord of the Dance: Dangerous Games; March 12: Yanni; March 25-27: Shen Yun; March 30: Il Volo; March 31: Star Trek: The Ultimate Voyage; April 16, 19, 22, 24: San Diego Opera presents Madama Butterfly; May 7, 10, 13, 15: San Diego Opera presents Great Scott. 1100 Third Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100, sandiegotheatres.org. Map Q16 HUMPHREY’S CONCERTS BY THE BAY April 5: Tori Kelly (sold out); April 14: Steve Miller Band. 2241 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.224.3577, humphreysconcerts.com. Map K9

aquarium.ucsd.edu

LA JOLLA MUSIC SOCIETY March 4: Keb’ Mo’: BLUESAmericana; March 11: Paul Lewis (piano); March 16: Ballet Flamenco de Andalucia; March 23: Montreal Symphony Orchestra; April 15: Tango, Song and Dance feat. Augustin Hadelich (violin), Joyce Yang (piano) and Pablo Villegas (guitar); April 17: István Várdai (cello); April 24: Murray Perahia (piano); April 30: Hubbard Street Dance Chicago; May 4: New York Philharmonic; May 8: Josef Špacek (violin); May 14: The Beethoven Piano Trios: Part I (3 p.m.) and Part II (8 p.m.); May 21: MozART Group. Various locations. 858.459.3728, ljms.org. MAINLY MOZART Ongoing. Eclectic lineup of chamber music concerts and events celebrating the music of Mozart and the masters. Various locations. 619.466.8742, mainlymozart.org. SAN DIEGO OPERA April 16, 19, 22, 24: Madama Butterfly; May 7, 10, 13, 15: Great Scott. Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, Map Q16; March 5: Ferruccio Furlanetto in Concert. Jacobs Music Center–Copley Symphony Hall, 750 B St., downtown, sdopera.com. Map Q14

The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD) gives you access to the very best art of our time in two iconic locations. Enjoy world-class exhibitions, compelling public programs, and works by promising emerging talent alongside major figures in international contemporary art.

LA JOLLA 700 Prospect St. La Jolla, CA 92037

Admission tickets are valid at both locations for 7 days.

HOURS: 11 AM–5 PM daily Closed Wednesday

free for 25 AnD unDer

858 454 3541 www.mcasd.org

DOWNTOWN 1100 Kettner Blvd. San Diego, CA 92101

SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY March 4: One Singular Sensation: A Tribute to Marvin Hamlisch; March 12: Tao (Taiko Drummers of Japan): Seventeen Samurai; March 18-20: Music In Motion: Dance and The Firebird; March 20: Igudesman & Joo; March 24: Vince Gill; March 26: globalFEST On the Road: Creole Carnival; April 1-3: Midori Plays Tchaikovsky; April 8-9: Jason Alexander; April 17: Much Ado About Music: Shakespeare and the Symphony; April 29-30: Jahja Ling Conducts Mahler; May 7: Gregory Porter; May 20-22: Fantastic Variations; May 27-29: Appalachian Spring: An American Finale. Copley Symphony Hall, 750 B St., downtown, Map Q14 Chamber Music Series: March 15: Yolanda Kondonassis (harp); April 4: Midori (violin); May 24: Jean-Yves Thibaudet, (piano). The Auditorium at The Scripps Research Institute, 10620 John Jay Hopkins Drive, La Jolla, 619.235.0804. Map S20 SLEEP TRAIN AMPHITHEATRE May 20: The Cure. 2050 Entertainment Circle, Chula Vista, 619.671.3600. Map F4

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Attractions + Museums VALLEY VIEW CASINO CENTER March 29: Justin Bieber; May 27: The Who. 3500 Sports Arena Blvd., Point Loma, 619.224.4171. Map J9

SHIVER WITH

ANTICI... PATION!

VIEJAS ARENA AT SDSU March 12: Jeff Dunham; April 23: Ellie Goulding. 5500 Canyon Crest Drive, SDSU, 619.594.0429. Map E3

RICHARD O’BRIEN’S

ROCKY HORROR SHOW

Attractions

THE

BELMONT PARK A beachfront landmark with attractions, rides, arcades and dining. Highlights include the historical Giant Dipper roller coaster, WaveHouse, SoCal’s largest indoor pool and Liberty Carousel. 3146 Mission Blvd., Mission Beach, 858.228.9283. Map I8

MAR 10 MAY 1

"BITTERLY SARDONIC... FEROCIOUSLY FUNNY"

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

- Stage and Cinema

STUPID FUCKING BIRD A PLAY BY

AARON POSNER

MAY 19 JUN 19

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

www.cygnettheatre.com

OLD TOWN | SAN DIEGO

Intimate, Joyful, Acclaimed

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 SAFARI PARK Go on safari through the 1,800–acre preserve, home to herds of exotic animals roaming in vast enclosures resembling African and Asian plains. Packages start at $48 for adults; children 3–11 $32; kids 2 and under free. Parking $10. Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, 760.747.8702. Map C3 SAN DIEGO BOTANIC GARDEN One of the world’s most diverse plant collections with 37 acres of lush gardens and trails. Daily 9 a.m.–5 p.m. (till 8 p.m. Th). Adults $14, with discounts for seniors, kids, military and students. Parking $2. 230 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas, 760.436.3036. Map V22

Ten minutes from downtown on beautiful Coronado Island, steps from the region’s most romantic beaches and restaurants

SAN DIEGO ZOO The world-famous zoo has more than 4,000 rare and endangered animals in a charming park with gorgeous inclined walking trails. $48; kids 3–11 $32; kids 2 and under free. Free parking. Open daily 9 a.m.-9 p.m. 2920 Zoo Drive, Balboa Park, 619.231.1515. Map O17

LAMBSPLAYERS.ORG • 619.437.6000

North Coast Repertory Theatre

SEAWORLD The 189-acre adventure park features thousands of marine animals including killer whales plus fish, reptiles and birds. $89; kids 3–9 $83; kids 2 and under free. Parking: $14-19. Open daily; call for hours and combo rates. 500 Sea World Drive, Mission Bay Park, 800.25.SHAMU. Map I8

619 220-0097 DIVERSIONARY.ORG

Museums CALIFORNIA SURF MUSEUM Collection of surfing artifacts and memorabilia, plus exhibits about surfing legends. Rare surfing collectibles in museum gift shop. Open daily, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Th 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Adults $5; seniors/ military/students $3; kids 12 and under free. 312 Pier View Way, Oceanside, 760.721.6876. Map S22

858.481.1055 • NorthCoastRep.org Solana Beach

WORLD CLASS THEATRE IN AN INTIMATE SETTING

WORLD PREMIERE MUSICAL | MAY 5 - JUNE 12

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FEB. 24 - MAR. 20

William Faulkner’s ‘Old Man’

GREEN DRAGON MUSEUM At the admission-free museum celebrating the Founding Fathers, peruse historical documents, newspapers and memorabilia from the Revolutionary War era inside a colonial-style building. M-Sa 11 a.m. till close; Su 10:30 a.m. till close. 6115 Paseo del Norte, Carlsbad, 760.918.2421. Map U22

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1/26/16 1:08 PM 1/27/16 3:36 PM 2/2/16 2:47 PM

LONG

Attractions + Museums MARITIME MUSEUM Visit the 1863 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, featured in the film Master and Commander. Daily 9 a.m.–8 p.m. $15; seniors/military/teens $11; kids 6-12 $8; kids 5 and under free. 1492 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.234.9153. Map P15

LIVE

ANIMALS COME CELEBRATE WITH US!

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. Th-Tu 11 a.m.-5 p.m. $5-10 admission valid for seven days; ages 25 and under free; free third Th 5-7 p.m. 700 Prospect St., La Jolla, Map W19; 1001 and 1100 Kettner Blvd., downtown, 858.454.3541. Map Q15 MUSEUM OF MAKING MUSIC Explore vintage instruments and interactive audio and visual exhibits that offer a dynamic look into the history of American popular music. Tu–Su 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $5–8; kids 5 and under free. 5790 Armada Drive, Carlsbad, 760.438.5996. Map U23 MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS Collection includes contemporary photography, social documentary and photojournalism; plus regularly rotating exhibits and film screenings. Tu-Su 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $5–8; kids 12 and under free. Free second Tu for S.D. residents. 1649 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.238.7559. Map O17 NEW CHILDREN’S MUSEUM The super-mod museum encourages kids to touch and interact with exhibits. M-Sa (closed Tu) 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; Su noon-4 p.m. $10; seniors/ military $5; children under 1 free. Free second Su. 200 W. Island Ave., downtown, 619.233.8792. Map Q16

WhereSDMag_SDZoo_Spring2016.indd 1

OCEANSIDE MUSEUM OF ART Regional and inter1/19/16 4:00 PM

national 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. $14.9517.95; kids 3 and under free. 1875 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.238.1233. Map O17 SAN DIEGO AIR & SPACE MUSEUM Spacecraft, jets and historical aircraft; plus special exhibits. Daily 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $9-18. 2001 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park, 619.234.8291. Map P17 SAN DIEGO HISTORY CENTER Peruse a range of exhibitions that chronicle San Diego’s diverse history. The museum also features an extensive research library—home to several million documents and photographs from the city’s past. M-Su 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $6-10; kids 6 and under free. 1649 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.6203. Map O17 SAN DIEGO MUSEUM OF ART Collection includes Italian Renaissance and Spanish Baroque works, 19th–20th-century American and European paintings and sculptures, and a vast Asian collection. M–Sa 10 a.m–5 p.m. (closed W), Su noon-5 p.m. $4.50–12; kids 6 and under free. 1450 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.7931. Map O17 SAN DIEGO MUSEUM OF MAN Go on a journey of the human experience highlighting our physical and cultural development through permanent and changing exhibits. Daily 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; $5–12.50; children 2 and under free. 1350 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.2001. Map O17

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Shopping 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 USS MIDWAY Now a retired aircraft carrier, the world’s largest floating naval-aviation museum has restored airplanes on the flight deck and interactive exhibits inside; plus military veterans giving personal tours. Daily 10 a.m.– 5 p.m. $10–18; military/kids 5 and under free. 910 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.544.9600. Map Q14

Destination Shopping CARLSBAD PREMIUM OUTLETS Shop 90 outlet stores (including Barneys New York, Polo Ralph Lauren and Banana Republic) in a pleasant outdoor setting. 5620 Paseo del Norte, Carlsbad, 760.804.9000. Map U22 DEL MAR HIGHLANDS TOWN CENTER This exclusive pocket of dining, shopping and entertainment comprises around 75 stylish shops and restaurants; plus a Cinepolis luxury movie theater. 12925 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.793.5757. Map X22 DEL MAR PLAZA With more than 20 shops and eight restaurants, this gorgeous tri-level boutique shopping plaza overlooks the Pacific Ocean in the heart of Del Mar. 1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.1555. Map X22 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 Cucina Enoteca) and dozens of highend specialty boutiques. 2720 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.481.7131. Map X22 THE FORUM CARLSBAD Elegant, tree-lined outdoor center with dozens of shops and restaurants, including Anthropologie and Sur La Table. 1905 Calle Barcelona, Carlsbad, 760.479.0166. Map U23 THE HEADQUARTERS AT SEAPORT DISTRICT Openair center in a historical setting is home to specialty shops, designer boutiques and restaurants, including several not found anywhere else in San Diego. 789 W. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.235.4014. Map K11 LAS AMERICAS PREMIUM OUTLETS Spanish Colonial-style outlet mall has 125-plus shops. 4211 Camino de la Plaza, San Ysidro, 619.934.8400. Map F3 OTAY RANCH TOWN CENTER Shops at this airy, stylish South County mall include Apple, Sephora and myriad fashion boutiques. Enjoy outdoor fire pits, a dog park and a movie theater. 2015 Birch Road, Chula Vista, 619.656.9100. Map F3 SEAPORT VILLAGE Picturesque and charming outdoor plaza on the waterfront features 54 one-of-a-kind shops, galleries and restaurants. 849 W. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.235.4014. Map R15 WESTFIELD HORTON PLAZA Popular multilevel 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

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Tours +Transport WESTFIELD UTC Enjoy more than 150 shops, five restaurants and a food court. The mall is anchored by Macy’s, Sears and Nordstrom department stores. 4545 La Jolla Village Drive, Golden Triangle, 858.546.8858. Map T21

Tours + Transport BALBOA PARK Free tours about history, architecture, horticulture and botanical gardens. Visitors Center, 1549 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.0512. Map P17 BIPLANE, AIR COMBAT & WARBIRD ADVENTURES Fly yesteryear military style on gentle or coastal biplane rides for two, you-fly-it air combat, and loops and rolls in a WWII warbird. Montgomery Field, 760.930.0903. CITYPASS Discount combo packages for San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, SeaWorld and SoCal attractions. $279 (kids $239). 888.330.5008, citypass.com. CORONADO HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION TOURS Walking tours: local history, architecture and gardens. 1100 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.8788. Map L11 ENTERPRISE Daily car rentals with approximately 25 locations throughout Orange County and San Diego. Pick-up service available. 888.484.HOTEL FLAGSHIP CRUISES AND EVENTS Daily bay tours, brunch and dinner cruises, water-taxis and more. 990 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 800.442.7847. Map Q14 GASLAMP QUARTER HISTORICAL FOUNDATION Two-hour walking tour of the Gaslamp. Sa 11 a.m. $15. 410 Island Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.4692. Map R16 GASLAMP SEGWAY Guided segway tours of historical neighborhoods including La Jolla and Coronado. 308 G St., Gaslamp, 619.239.2111. Map R16

Easy come, easier go. We’re conveniently located right around the corner from your hotel. To make it even easier, we’ll pick you up. To make a reservation, call (888)484-Hotel(4683) or visit enterprise.com/hotelguests2.

HORNBLOWER CRUISES Daily narrated tours of San Diego Bay, plus dinner cruises, yacht charters, whale-watching and events. 970 N. Harbor Drive, Broadway Pier, Embarcadero, 619.686.8715. Map Q14 LA JOLLA KAYAK Guided snorkeling/kayak tours of the cove and caves; SUP; single/double kayak and snorkeling gear rentals; whale-watching; and bike tours. 2199 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla Shores, 858.459.1114. Map V20 MAGICAL ADVENTURES Hot-air balloon flights over Del Mar or Temecula Valley wine country. 866.ENJOY.US. OLD TOWN TROLLEY TOURS OF SAN DIEGO Narrated sightseeing tour of San Diego and Coronado via trolley or “SEAL” (sea and land vehicle). 619.298.8687. SAN DIEGO SPEED BOAT ADVENTURES Navigate your own speed boat along S.D. Bay. 1450 Harbor Island Drive, #205, Harbor Island, 619.294.5852 Map Q14 SAN DIEGO LUXURY SAILING Sunset sails and whalewatching aboard a 45-foot luxury sailing yacht with premium amenities. Yacht memberships available. 1450 Harbor Island Drive, Harbor Island, 404.441.9414 Map J9 URBAN SAFARIS Weekend walkabouts of San Diego neighborhoods (or by appointment). 619.944.9255. 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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Maps san diego county 1

To Corona

15 215

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Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum

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University of California San Diego

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where San Diego 12

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Maps downtown + little italy + uptown

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where San Diego

805 76

Torrey Pines

State Reserve

Carlsbad Premium Outlets

Omni La Costa Resort & Spa

The Forum Carlsbad C

San Diego Botanic Gardens

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

52 5

Flower Hill Promenade

where San Diego

Torrey Pines State Reserve Visitor Center

56 CONTINUES AT TOP LEFT

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diego

Roaming through the Carlsbad Flower Fields, which are in bloom March-May. p. 49

Playing bocce ball at Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens at Liberty Station.

Glow-in-the-dark golf at The Loma Club golf course at Liberty Station in Point Loma. p. 11

Sampling gourmet cheeses at Venissimo Cheese at Liberty Public Market. p. 11

Marveling at stunning floral sculptures at Art Alive. p. 7

Hiking to the top of Mount Woodson in Poway for an Instagram photo atop the famous Potato Chip Rock.

Concerts at California Center for the Arts, Escondido. p. 55

Feeding giraffes right out of your hand at San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido. p. 56

Being a kid again and riding the famed Giant Dipper roller coaster at Belmont Park in Mission Beach. p. 56 The sinfully decadent S’mores French toast at Breakfast Republic in North Park. p. 14

Padres baseball games and junk food at Petco Park. p. 18 Meditating in the tranquil gardens of the Self-Realization Fellowship Temple. p. 26

Craft cocktails at The Nolen rooftop bar overlooking downtown and San Diego Bay. p. 10

Retail therapy in La Jolla. We love women’s fashion boutique Azzurra Capri. 7863 Girard Ave.

Snorkeling and kayaking along the postcard-perfect La Jolla coastline. p. 21

Checking out the “Cardiff Kook” and his latest fashion statement. thecardiffkook.org

Shopping for unique gifts at Luxury Farms Coronado. p. 23

The Señor Croque fried chicken sandwich at The Crack Shack— with bacon, cheddar, a fried egg and miso-maple butter. p. 9

Sipping a Black Salt Bloody Mary at Duke’s La Jolla on the ocean-view deck. p. 8

where in the world

Del Mar Beach at dusk.

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,

Reading on a quiet bench at Spanish Landing Park. p. 22 Day trips to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park to hike Palm Canyon Trail amid blooming wildflowers in springtime. The Albacore Two Ways at Bracero Cocina de Raiz. p. 13 Sipping tea while perusing the art galleries and boutiques of Cedros Design District in Solana Beach. p. 26 The Tacolandia taco with braised pork shoulder for lunch at Galaxy Taco. galaxytaco.com Exploring cool art exhibits at the Oceanside Museum of Art. oma-online.org

Watching some of the best equestrians and horses in the world compete at the Del Mar National Horse Show at Del Mar Fairgrounds. p. 49 Dancing, beignets, catfish sandwiches and buckets of boiled crawfish at the Gator by the Bay Zydeco, Blues & Crawfish Festival. p. 49 Indulging in the mac ‘n’ cheese at Sea180 Coastal Tavern, while enjoying views of the ocean and Imperial Beach Pier. p. 16 Perusing creations by more than 350 local and emerging artists at Mission Federal ArtWalk in Little Italy—San Diego’s largest urban arts festival. p. 49

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WHERE 30 THINGS WE LOVE / san

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