WINTER 2018 SOCALPULSE.COM
SAN DIEGO
BECAUSE YOU’VE ARRIVED BORN & RAISED STEAKHOUSE GLAMS UP LITTLE ITALY THE CITY’S HOT DINING ’HOODS SAN DIEGO MUSEUM OF ART’S COOL NEW EXHIBITS
Comfort Cuisine
WINTER'S "IT" DISHES ARE HEARTY, DECADENT AND DOWNRIGHT DELICIOUS.
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where san diego
Winter 2018
COntents
the dining issue
departments
the guide
2 Editor’s Note
31 Dining Restaurants by cuisine and neighborhood
Let’s get comfy this winter.
4 Hot Dates Holiday festivities, Farmers Insurance Open, San Diego Restaurant Week and more.
48 Entertainment Events, festivals, performing arts, concerts and sports
64 30 Things We Love
52 Attractions + museums Theme parks, activities and exhibitions
Ice skating by the beach, whale watching and more.
54 Shopping The county’s best malls and major retail destinations
where now 6 Dining
8 Cuisine Scene Where to eat and drink in two cool S.D. neighborhoods: north Pacific Beach and Bird Rock.
55 nightlife Hot dance clubs, laid-back lounges and cool cocktail bars
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Born & Raised
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9 Art Scene
City Tours
The duck tostadas at Lionfish
The San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park unveils two new must-see exhibits.
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10 Comfort Zone From old-fashioned gumbo to banana bread French toast to one of the tastiest cheeseburgers in town, winter’s “it” dishes are indulgent, decadent and downright delicious. By sarah daoust
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Alliant International University
Golden Triangle
Pacific Beach
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Born & Raised—Little Italy’s new, $6.5 million steakhouse—is a true stunner. We reveal the details of CH Projects’ most ambitious endeavor to date, from the gourmet chophouse menu, to the glam interior design by designer/builder Paul Basile. By sarah daoust
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ON THE COVER The roasted chicken at Barbusa epitomizes winter comfort food. See feature on p. 10.
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cover: lyudmila zotova. this page, from top: robert benson, courtesy lionfish
58 TOURS + TRANSPORT Getting out, getting around and getting an insider’s look at the city
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Lionfish and Queensborough in the Gaslamp Quarter; and Nick & G’s in Rancho Santa Fe.
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socalpulse.com Get the up-to-the-minute buzz from our Southern California editors online and on your smartphone. WINTER 2018 WHERE SAN DIEGO 1
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where
WELCOME A Note From the Editor
MAGAZINE
PUBLISHER EDITOR
Jeff Levy
Sarah Daoust
ART DIRECTOR
Carol Wakano
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Comfort & Contrast Winter is always a particularly interesting time of year in San Diego, as it’s a time of contrasts. The new year inspires resolutions and goalsetting, which often revolve around wellness, fitness and eating better. Yet, the holidays and chillier months have us craving comfort food and cozying up indoors. Back in northwest Ohio where I grew up, winter meant heavy carb consumption and months of
snow and freezing temperatures. You didn’t venture outside much—other than to ski or start your car 20 minutes before driving anywhere so it could thaw out and warm up. Here, it’s often beach weather by day and jacket weather by night. It’s a time of year that brings about both growth and hibernation. And that’s the true beauty of winter in San Diego: You can have the best of both worlds. You can explore its contrasts and find enjoyment in both. The key is moderation. For our annual Dining Issue, I sought comfort, and I found it in the form of the Bourbon Street Pumpkin Pancake at Snooze, the Alessandro Pizza at Officine Buona Forchetta, and 10 more indulgent dishes found at fabulous restaurants across town. I toured glamourous new steakhouse Born & Raised, home to a 28-ounce porterhouse and seven-layer carrot cake. I sampled the peanut caramel tart at Lionfish; the butterscotch-pecan bread pudding at Nick & G’s; and the surf & turf sliders at Queensborough. But in between my gluttonous field trips, I loaded up on organic greens from our many local farmers markets; hiked the trails of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve; jogged along the Pacific Beach boardwalk; and mapped out my goals for 2018 while sitting on a quiet bench along the bay at Spanish Landing Park. That’s how we do winter in San Diego. The best of both worlds, indeed. —SARAH DAOUST
Benjamin Epstein
PRODUCTION ARTIST
Diana Gonzalez
CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER
Heidi Schwindt
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Claire Caraska, Avery Jordan CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Brown W. Cannon III, John Dole, Stacy Keck, Tim King, Karen Morrison, Gregory Pierce, Edwin Santiago, Ashok Sinha, Sam Wells, Lyudmila Zotova ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Crystal Sierra, Brooke Knetzger, Tim Egan, Joel Gilliam, Jessica Levin Poff, Heather Price BUSINESS MANAGER
Leanne Killian Riggar
CIRCULATION MANAGER
Madelyn Harris
MARKETING/PRODUCTION MANAGER
Dawn Kiko Cheng DIGITAL STRATEGIST
Christina Wiese
ADMINISTRATION
Jennifer Salas, Kamryn Stelly 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.Wiese@WhereSD.com Circulation Madelyn.Harris@WhereSD.com Plan ahead for your next visit to San Diego— subscribe to where: Single copy $4, 4 issues $16. Contact: Madelyn Harris, phone: 619.260.5599 E-mail: Madelyn.Harris@WhereSD.com © 2017 Southern California Media Group. All Rights Reserved. Published by Southern California Media Group. where makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part strictly prohibited. where is a registered trademark of Morris Visitor Publications.
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In San Diego, where magazine is pleased to be a member of San Diego Concierge Association, Gaslamp Quarter Association, San Diego Tourism Authority and San Diego Historical Society.
ON THE WEB: socalpulse.com
TIM KING
And that’s the true beauty of winter in San Diego: You can have the best of both worlds. You can explore its contrasts and find enjoyment in both. The key is moderation.
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OPEN DAILY VisitSeaport.com #VisitSeaport
Over 80 Shops & Restaurants Located Downtown on the Waterfront
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WHERE CALENDAR
HOT DATES Winter 2018
TOP STOPS
NAB SOME HOLIDAY SPIRIT WITH THESE FUN SEASONAL FESTIVITIES.
DEC. 1-2 BRIGHT LIGHTS Attracting more than 300,000 visitors, Balboa Park December Nights is the largest free community festival in San Diego. Festivities include live music, dance performances and holiday light displays, and many museums open their doors free of charge. p. 48
DEC. 2-17
7 THINGS NOT TO BE MISSED 1 WHALE WATCHING > ONGOING The winter and spring months are especially ideal for sighting both blue and gray whales in San Diego waters. Plan a whale watching excursion for February or March, and you won’t be disappointed. p. 48
HERE FOR THE WEEKEND? Check out our Weekend Roundup at SoCalPulse.com for the up-to-the-minute lowdown on the coolest concerts, sporting events, festivals, art exhibits and restaurants.
2 ICE SKATING > THROUGH JAN. 1 Celebrate the holidays San Diego-style with Skating by the Sea, a temporary outdoor ice skating rink on the Hotel del Coronado’s Windsor Lawn. p. 48 3 MLK JR. DAY PARADE > JAN. 14 Celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at this 38th annual waterfront parade along San Diego Bay. Enjoy an afternoon of bands, floats and drill teams as they march along the Embarcadero on Harbor Drive. p. 48
S.D. RESTAURANT WEEK > JAN. 21-28 Dine out for less during this celebration of local dining. More than 180 restaurants will offer prix-fixe menus at significantly reduced price points. (The gnocchi with pesto at Barbusa is pictured.) p. 48 4
5 S.D. MUSEUM MONTH > FEB. 1-28 Explore more than 40 of San Diego County’s top museums, historical sites, monuments and gardens for half-off admission. p. 48 6 MARDI GRAS > FEB. 13 Celebrate Fat Tuesday at the Hillcrest Mardi Gras Street Party. Or head to the Gaslamp for one of the largest Mardi Gras festivals on the West Coast. p. 49 7 CHINESE NEW YEAR FAIR > FEB. 24-25 This free celebration features more than 25 performances, children’s crafts, a lantern parade and a variety of Chinese and Asian foods and cultural displays downtown. p. 49
DEC. 10 & DEC. 17 FLOAT ON At the 46th annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights, see San Diego Bay twinkle with more than 80 private boats decked out with holiday lights for a night on the water. p. 48
DEC. 28 HOT AIR Check out the country’s largest balloon parade along Harbor Drive skirting San Diego Bay at the Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade, including floats and marching bands. p. 48
LEFT, LYUDMILA ZOTOVA
JAN. 25-28 TEE TIME
It’s that time of year again! Don’t miss the annual Farmers Insurance Open—a four-day competition during which the top pro golfers in the world tee off at the stunning, oceanview Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla. As San Diego’s most celebrated and prestigious PGA tournament (Jon Rahm posted a seven-under-par 65 on the final day to win it last year), the action-packed spectacle includes post-parties presented by Harrah’s Resort SoCal, a Pro-Am Tournament, exclusive lounges and charitable activities. p. 48
BIBLE STUDY At Holiday in the Park, see Old Town State Historic Park decked out for the holidays with extended shopping hours, strolling carolers and Las Posadas—a centuries-old tradition in which actors reenact the biblical journey of Mary and Joseph through the town of Bethlehem on Dec. 9. p. 48
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WHERE NOW The best in entertainment, attractions, shopping and dining
DINING
Gaslamp Glamour The Pendry hotel's Lionfish packs the house nightly with its modern coastal cuisine by locally renowned Executive Chef Jose “JoJo” Ruiz. The menu screams elevated sea fare, with such dishes as big-eye tuna pizza, beet-cured salmon sashimi, nigiri flights, specialty sushi rolls, daily fresh catches, caviar and a full raw bar. Carnivores will love the duck confit tostadas and glazed Salmon Creek pork chop with pancetta. The bar program boasts sake, bubbles, wines by the glass, and specialty cocktails such as the Chai Me a River (pictured). Save room for the peanut caramel tart with smoked sea salt meringue. The sophisticated two-story restaurant features layers of brick and wood paneling, leather banquettes and booths, and elegant lighting—perfect for groups or date night. 435 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.738.7200
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Mussels brodetto: green-lipped mussels, garlic, white wine and herbed bread crumbs
OPPOSITE, ARLENE IBARRA; TOP RIGHT, COURTESY NICK & G'S; BOTTOM RIGHT, PAUL BODY
BACK AT THE RANCH Tucked in the heart of Rancho Santa Fe, Nick & G’s (formerly Ponsaty’s) is a cozy-chic chophouse with an elegant ItalianMediterranean flair. The warm, wood-paneled space features banquette seating, large booths, a stone fireplace, a generous sidewalk dining patio and hues of slate gray and deep blue throughout. On Executive Chef Brian Freerksen’s menu, choose from mussels brodetto, diver scallops, seared Atlantic salmon, grilled filet mignon, and a Stone Valley pork chop with mascarpone polenta; along with savory flatbreads, hearty pastas, soups and salads. The chef’s homemade lasagna of the day is a standout. Those with a sweet tooth will swoon over such desserts as the vanilla-bean creme brulee, butterscotch-pecan bread pudding, and homemade gelatos and sorbets. Sunday brunch also shines, with salmon and lobster hash, blue crab cake Benedict, live music, and $15 bottomless mimosas and bloody marys. 6106 Paseo Delicias, Rancho Santa Fe, 858.771.1871
City Slicker Find a big city-style haven in the heart of the Gaslamp at Queensborough, the brainchild of San Diego hospitality group Brethren Collective. The 1920sinspired cocktail lounge with an uptown NYC ambiance serves up sophisticated libations and shareable plates amid an elegant 1,800-square-foot space—highlighted by
leather booths, cantilevered marble tabletops, antique brass light fixtures, exposed brick walls, a 22-foot-long marble bar top and a floor-to-ceiling, glass-encased back bar showcasing more than 300 bottles. Gourmet bar bites include surf & turf sliders on brioche buns, meat and cheese boards, gourmet burgers and sandwiches,
soups, and beignets and peach cobbler for dessert. Queensborough also houses a 6,000-square-foot underground social club with more of a downtown vibe—featuring build-yourown barrel-aged cocktails, private whiskey lockers, a 50-capacity private dining room, DJs and jazz musicians. 777 Fifth Ave. Gaslamp Quarter, 619.546.4995
Chilled Red Pepper Citrus Soup at Queensborough
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2018
Clockwise: Wheat & Water's cheerful interior, accented with brick, wood and artwork; Ambrogio 15's pizza oven; Bird Rock Coffee Roasters' quaint exterior and signage.
cuisine scene
Hot ‘Hood Alert North Pacific Beach and Bird Rock offer eclectic eateries. Looking for a bite or sip in a quaint beachy ‘hood? These neighboring pockets of San Diego will hit the spot. La Jolla’s Bird Rock community is brimming with charming outposts, as is the northern enclave of Pacific Beach, particularly along idyllic Turquoise Street. Come hungry. In Bird Rock, Wheat & Water is a new spot serving up wood-fired pizzas, salads, charcuterie and cheese plates, and local beers amid woodsy-chic furnishings. Don’t miss: the Bacon and Potato pizza with bechamel sauce, house-made mozzarella, leeks, Parmesan and fresh herbs. Locals’ favorite Voce Del Mare is downright adorable, featuring a wine lounge, dogfriendly patio and refined Italian cuisine— perfect for a casual date night. Don’t miss: the salmon carpaccio, homemade gnocchi, sauteed artichokes and grilled pork chops. Find American comfort fare, cocktails and occasional live music at nearby Beaumont’s—a casual-cool neighborhood hangout serving lunch and dinner daily, and weekend breakfast. Don’t miss: the fried
green tomatoes with bacon and buttermilk dressing, and the Portuguese seafood stew for dinner; and the breakfast tacos filled with scrambled eggs, hash browns, feta, avocado and Applewood-smoked bacon. Considered the area’s mother ship for java addicts, Bird Rock Coffee Roasters is a laid-back (albeit busy) “farm-to-cup” coffee shop known for its organic, fair-trade offerings and signature roasts. Enjoy a cup of joe on the sidewalk patio, or a buy bag of beans at wholesale prices. Don’t miss: the Trophy Wife, our pick for the best macadamia nut latte in town. In north Pacific Beach, Ambrogio 15 is a modern Milanese restaurant with authentic pizzas, focaccia and Italian wines. Don’t miss: the Nuvola Focaccia topped with burrata and prosciutto; and the Hannibal Lecter pizza loaded with Italian meats. Freshly baked breads and pastries beckon from gleaming glass cases inside The French Gourmet—a quaint restaurant, bakery and wine shop serving California-influenced French cuisine and wines by the glass. Don’t miss: the pâté
DETAILS
Ambrogio 15 926 Turquoise St., North Pacific Beach, 858.291.8650 Beaumont’s 5662 La Jolla Blvd., Bird Rock, 858.459.0474 Bird Rock Coffee Roasters 5627 La Jolla Blvd., Bird Rock, 858.551.1707 The French Gourmet 960 Turquoise St., North Pacific Beach, 858.488.1725 Homestyle Hawaiian 747 Turquoise St., North Pacific Beach, 858.291.8852 Oscar’s Mexican Seafood 703 Turquoise St., North Pacific Beach, 858.488.6392 Voce Del Mare 5721 La Jolla Blvd., Bird Rock, 858.412.5000 Wheat & Water 5737 La Jolla Blvd., Bird Rock, 858.291.8690
sampler, the pan-roasted crispy skin chicken and the duck leg confit. For ultra-casual eats, Homestyle Hawaiian is a quick-serve joint with delicious islandstyle food and generous portions. Think: slowed-roasted pork, Korean-style beef short ribs, pupus and Loco Moco. Don’t miss: the Spam Musubi (grilled Spam served atop a block of rice, wrapped with seaweed), coated in panko and deep-fried, then drizzled with spicy mayonaise. And then there’s Oscar’s Mexican Seafood; the Turquoise Street location is an institution. When you want fish tacos and ceviche, come here. Don’t miss: the Taco Especial with smoked fish, shrimp and scallops; and the bluefin tuna ceviche.
all photos are courtesy images
where NOW / Winter
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Fernando de Szyszlo, House Eight (Casa Ocho), 1978, oil on canvas, at San Diego Museum of Art
art scene
Museum Musings
San Diego Museum of Art presents two must-see exhibits.
On view through March 11, 2018, the San Diego Museum of Art presents the exhibit Modern Masters from Latin America: The Pérez Simón Collection—around 100 works of art by world-great modern masters and seminal figures. Pulled from coveted private collections—from such countries as Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico and Uruguay—the pristine assemblage brings to life the complex history of Latin American modernism. Simultaneously, Frida & Me is the museum’s other new exhibit, also on view through March 11, 2018—marking its first run in the U.S. Iconic Mexican painter Frida Kahlo (1907-1954) is the star, showcased in an interactive children’s exhibition encompassing multiple modules that capture milestones of her life and her Casa Azul residence in Mexico City. Visitors are encouraged to channel their inner artist. 1450 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.7931
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The HP Burger at Hundred Proof
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Comfort
ZONE
Winter’s “it” dishes are indulgent, decadent and downright delicious. by S A R A H D AO U S T
Maybe it’s because this last year has been packed with political drama, record natural disasters and otherwise scary news headlines. Maybe it’s these cooler months and stressful winter holidays. But right now, more than ever, I’m craving comfort. Thankfully, San Diego provides it in countless ways, namely in the form of food—which has made putting together our annual dining issue extra fun. Following are some of my current favorite foods and dishes to indulge in around town this winter. When seeking comfort, America’s Finest City has your back. BLEU BOHEME If comfort food were in the form of a restaurant, it would be this cozy, welcoming, rustic French bistro. The Gnocchi a la Parisienne at Bleu Boheme is decidedly divine—delicate pillows of sautéed Parmesan dumplings lightly tossed with Brussels sprouts, smoked bacon and white wine cream sauce. C’est delicieux! 4090 Adams Ave., Kensington, 619.255.4167 CAFE 222 With classic comfort dishes for breakfast and lunch daily (with the breakfast menu also available for lunch), restaurateur Terryl Gavre’s Cafe 222 has been a downtown staple for 25 years. Waffles and griddle cakes are their thing. Among them, the griddled Banana bread French toast—made with house-baked banana bread topped with caramelized
bananas—is a sinful start to the day. (Hey, bananas are part of the fruit group and a good source of potassium, so it’s fine.) 222 Island Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.236.9902
CRACKHEADS Offering all-day breakfast sandwiches, build-your-own cereal bowls and Pop Tart ice cream sandwiches, Crackheads at Liberty Public Market is onto something big. Go for the signature Crackhead sandwich with bacon, a medium egg, cheddar and their special crack sauce; and add avocado. 2820 Historic Decatur Road, Liberty Station, Point Loma, 619.487.9346 HUNDRED PROOF Serving up boilermakers, boozy milkshakes and gourmet bar food, Hundred Proof is a woodsy-chic new gastropub uptown. The signature HP Burger
(pictured left) with English cheddar, their secret HP spread, pickles, onions, iceberg lettuce and a side of fries hit the spot. Wash it down with one of their slushy mules or hearty milkshakes topped with goodies such as donuts and churros, and let the carb coma commence. 4130 Park Blvd., University Heights, 619.501.6404
NOMAD DONUTS There’s a reason why Nomad Donuts makes one particular item—the Ube Taro Coconut Donut—every single day. People are addicted to it, and it sells out daily. Try it and see what the fuss is about. 3102 University Ave., North Park, 619.431.5000 OFFICINE BUONA FORCHETTA Find authentic Neapolitan-style pizza perfection at this sprawling restaurant—featuring two oversized patios,
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The Pollo Arrosto dish at Barbusa. Opposite: Tajima’s signature ramen with pork, egg and fried garlic.
Pillbox Tavern & Grill Sometimes, after a long work day, burying your face in a plate of chicken wings is like culinary Calgon. And Pillbox Tavern has quite the roster of wings, offering 14 varieties and 14 different house-made sauces. Go for a mix of the BBQ and buffalo wings and allow them to take you away … 117 Plaza St., Solana Beach, 858.436.7016 Snooze an AM Eatery With now several locations around town, the Snooze outpost in La Jolla is a newer favorite. And a new star of the menu? The Bourbon Street Pumpkin Pancake. This
bad boy comprises pumpkin buttermilk pancakes topped with bourbon pecan jam, sweet cream cheese drizzle, whipped mascarpone and mocha crumble. I’ll take “A Sweet Tooth’s Dream” for $600, Alex. 8861 Villa La Jolla Drive, La Jolla, 858.483.5556
Tajima This master of ramen boasts five locations around San Diego, but the Hillcrest outpost is my personal favorite, partly because I live a block away. I always go for the signature Tajima Ramen Bowl with fat noodles, pork belly, egg and fried garlic. The steaming hot tonkotsu broth warms the belly and soul every time. 3739 Sixth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.269.5050 Union Kitchen & Tap Nothing says Southern comfort like a big ol’ bowl of gumbo. And Union Kitchen’s rendition doesn’t disappoint. The hearty stew is packed with andouille sausage, pulled smoked chicken, okra, green onions and jasmine rice. Add blackened shrimp and butter-poached
crawfish for even more protein power. 1108 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.230.2337
Vigilucci’s Seafood & Steakhouse Plunked directly across the street from the Pacific, Vigilucci’s offers some of the best carnivore dishes and sea fare in North County, with a side of sweet ocean views. Lamb lovers will swoon over the Agnello alla Griglia—pistachio-crusted New Zealand rack of lamb over mushroomsaffron risotto and a port wine reduction. 3878 Carlsbad Blvd., Carlsbad, 760.434.2580 Barbusa Modern Sicilian cuisine defines the Busalacchi family’s stylish trattoria. The handmade pastas, pizzas and updated Sicilian classics are all delectable, but the Pollo Arrosto (roasted free-range chicken) is a simple, savory standout … just like my Grandma used to make. 1917 India St., Little Italy 619.238.1917
from top left: lyudmila zotova; courtesy tajima
a children’s playground, an open kitchen with two custom pizza ovens, and modern warehouse-style decor. My current pizza crush: the Alessandro Pizza with mozzarella, sausage, prosciutto and porcini mushrooms. It’s difficult not to bypass the chewing stage and just inhale it. 2865 Sims Road, Liberty Station, Point Loma, 619.548.5770
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RAISING the BAR Born & Raised debuts as San Diego’s most anticipated restaurant opening of the year, and it's a true design marvel. by SARAH DAOUST
SOME SAY TRADITIONAL FINE DINING IN SAN DIEGO IS DEAD. Save for a handful of revered institutions still standing, that statement arguably rings true. Enter the culinary/design dream team behind Born & Raised, indisputably the city’s most buzzed-about new restaurant since Brian Malarkey’s Herb & Wood opening in April 2016. The $6.5 million, open-air steakhouse in the heart of Little Italy is nothing short of stunning, with no expense spared and no detail ignored. Have a look at the dining destination boldly trailblazing a new era of “fine dining.” THE DESIGN > Drawing inspiration from the original NYC chophouses of the late 1860s, the two-story restaurant spans 10,000 square feet of a 1930s-era building (which formerly housed Nelson Photo Supply for decades) on the northeast corner of India and Fir streets. Ornate, opulent and glamorous, the overhauled space also feels clean, warm and approachable—fusing deco elements with mid-century modern accents. It’s old-school nostalgia with contemporary flair. A striking, 45-foot cocktail bar covered in Italian green marble catches the eye upon entry. The main dining space is outfitted in Italian marble-topped tables punctuated by elegant glass sconces; camel-hued leather booths; parquet and terrazzo floors; and brass trim throughout. A walnut-paneled ceiling and eight walnut “blooms”—majestic, pillared columns that flank the room, illuminated at the top by LED lights—were sourced from a single tree in Northern California. Portraits of gangsters both old and new dot the walls. A massive, multi-tiered crystal chandelier—truly jaw-dropping in aesthetic and scale—completes the decor. Climb a suspended
wood and steel staircase in the corner to find a 2,700-square-foot rooftop dining deck with plaid-upholstered booths and city views. THE EXPERIENCE > Serving dinner nightly, Born & Raised pays homage to the classic American steakhouse. This means eye candy and pageantry in the form of tuxedo-clad servers, tableside cart service (flambé, anyone?), and its own butchery and dry-aging room. It’s a place that inspires patrons to shuck the flip-flops for an evening and dress up a little, simply because it’s fun. And the special occasion? It’s Tuesday night and you’re alive. In a town where “casually elegant” and “fast-casual” eateries are king, Born & Raised is a refreshing departure. Adding to the experience, like any decent steakhouse, Born & Raised is all about the beef. Committed to responsible sourcing and sustainability, the restaurant features an in-house dry-aging program for its humanely raised beef—which is hand-selected from elite Black Angus producer Creekstone Farms. The glass-enclosed
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Born & Raised's 45-foot-long cocktail bar, made with Italian green marble. Opposite: a camel-hued leather dining booth.
butchery, which can age up to 750 pounds of meat at one time, allows guests to view the action from the dining room.
ROBERT BENSON
THE CUISINE > Steak lovers will find that Born & Raised is their new mother ship. The selections are vast and of premium quality: filets, porterhouses, rib-eyes, dry-aged cuts, American and Japanese wagyu, slow-roasted Prime rib and more. There’s even specialties such as British-style rib of beef served with Yorkshire pudding; Tournedos Rossini, a decadent French steak dish with truffle and foie gras; and Steak Dyyyanne (actual spelling), a vegan steak served with hand-cut fries. Mains also extend to charcoal-roasted lamb, dry-aged duck, pork, roasted chicken and a daily whole fish preparation. Starters and sides include escargot, crab claws, lobster bisque, smoky creamed kale, Parisian-style gnocchi, mac ‘n’ cheese, an overstuffed baked potato, private-label caviar, and dry-aged meatballs with ricotta polenta. For dessert: seven-layer carrot cake with actual carrot ribbons fashioned into rosebuds, topped with glitter and pearls. Come hungry. THE LIBATIONS > With the city’s largest collection of scotch by the glass and an inventory of more than 300 bottles—including coveted pours such as the Highland Park 1964 Vintage single malt scotch—Born & Raised is scotch central. The bar also stocks some
500 distinctive spirits—shaking and stirring martinis, Manhattans, side cars, and Prohibition-era favorites. An exceptional wine list highlights producers across California and France, with more than 150 selections. THE TEAM > Restaurant and bar juggernaut CH Projects—cofounded by Arsalun Tafazoli and Nathan Stanton—is no stranger to multimillion-dollar, envelope-pushing projects, with close to a dozen progressive venues around San Diego. Born & Raised marks the outfit’s most ambitious endeavor to date, and they brought in the big guns to deliver. Renowned local designer and builder Paul Basile took on the task of transforming the 1930s building into a stylish steakhouse of substance. Executive Chef and partner Jason McLeod, owner of two Michelin Stars, painstakingly developed the menu and helms the kitchen. Seasoned sommelier Rafael Peterson, whose resume includes Bracero and Addison, mans the wine program. Anthony Schmidt, a CH Projects veteran and true Jedi among cocktail masters, serves as beverage director. Executive Pastry Chef Elizabeth Olson dreams up indulgent desserts. And last but not least, there’s lead butcher Michelle Allen. Under her watch, no guest at Born & Raised will ever need to ask, “Where’s the beef?” > 1909 India St., Little Italy, 619.202.4577, bornandraisedsteak.com WINTER 2018 WHERE SAN DIEGO 15
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GASLAMP QUARTER
/ DOWNTOWN’S CORE / EAST VILLAGE / LITTLE ITALY / EMBARCADERO
DOWNTOWN
GASLAMP QUARTER Businessman Alonzo Erastus Horton envisioned San Diego as a bustling port city, and in 1867 he spent $264 for 800 acres he called “New Town.” Today, New Town is known as the historical Gaslamp Quarter, celebrating its 150th anniversary this year. Comprising more than 16 square blocks, the Gaslamp stretches from Broadway to Harbor Drive (just north of the Convention Center), with Fourth, Fifth and Sixth avenues as its main thoroughfares. Anchoring the area’s northwest end is Horton Plaza, a small square with a bubbling fountain on the corner of Broadway and Fourth. The Gaslamp’s immaculately preserved Victorian-style buildings are home to dozens of restaurants, clubs, theaters and retailers. Several tour guides offer an insider’s look at the area, or explore on your own. If you start your exploration at the southern end of the Gaslamp, be sure to visit the
Chuck Jones Gallery (232 Fifth Ave.) for cool animation art by emerging artists. Also check out the Art of Tim Cantor Gallery (527 Fourth Ave.) for a variety of one-of-a-kind conceptual art, oil paintings and writings. Shop for pre-owned luxury watches at Nikki & Co. Fine Jewelers (562 Fifth Ave.). Stop in locally owned Dolcetti (635 Fifth Ave.) for contemporary men’s and women’s clothing and accessories. For national retailers, venture farther up Fifth, where you’ll find well-known stores such as trendy hat boutique Goorin Brothers (631 Fifth
Ave.), Quiksilver (402 Fifth Ave.), Urban Outfitters (665 Fifth Ave.) and Bubbles Boutique (226 Fifth Ave.), carrying womenswear, accessories and gifts. Or make your way over to Westfield Horton Plaza, 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 dozens of restaurants and shops. 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 stroll through Horton Plaza Park— featuring an amphitheater, vendors and art installations. 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. 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
great find
COCKTAIL HOUR Inside the Horton Grand Hotel, Salt & Whiskey serves up seasonal fare and whiskey libations. The stately, wood-paneled space features elegant chandeliers, leather booths, a fireplace and cozy bar. Try the chicken & waffles for breakfast, the Welsh meatballs for lunch, and the rotating seafood dish for dinner. (The seared salmon, pictured, was a recent entree.) 311 Island Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.544.1886
(CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) COURTESY IMAGE, KEN HOWARD/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, BROWN W. CANNON III/INTERSECTION PHOTOS, ARLENE IBARRA, COURTESY SALT & WHISKEY
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.
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stocked with rare artwork, home wares, bath products, jewelry and gift items; as well as Vitreum (619 W. Fir St.), specializing in simple, elegant ceramics. On Cedar, Vocabulary (414 W. Cedar St.) is a chic boutique featuring emerging designers. Running parallel to India Street, Kettner Boulevard forms the spine of the art-and-design district. A gallery cluster near the corner of Kettner and Kalmia includes Subtext Gallery (2479 Kettner Blvd.), focused on lowbrow and graphic artists. Shop for vintage and modern furniture, art and home accents at @HOM (2310-B Kettner Blvd.). And pop into Kapreeza (1772 Kettner Blvd.), a European lingerie and swimwear shop. Foodies will enjoy roaming the popular Saturday morning Mercato farmers market on Cedar Street (619.233.3769).
Left to right: Downtown’s Waterfront Park; a Gaslamp Quarter light post; shopping at Horton Plaza.
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 Petco Park (100 Park Blvd.) and the Central Library (330 Park Blvd.) are major landmarks of this edgy neighborhood. Enjoy some open, green space at Fault Line Park (1433 Island Ave.). For some retail therapy, stop by McKenzie Rae Dresses (643 G St.), which sells elegant frocks and accessories; and Wild Dove Boutique (740 Market St.) for contemporary women’s fashions. The area’s burgeoning art scene includes a few notable out-
posts: Space 4 Art (325 15th St.), a gallery/arts center where artists live and work; and Alexander Salazar Fine Art (225 W. Market St.), a modern 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 galleries, such as Meyer Fine Art (2400 Kettner Blvd., #104), featuring contemporary art by renowned artists; and cool shops, including Little Apple (1980 Kettner Blvd., # 60), selling women’s clothing. 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.),
Panther’s Fang at False Idol
insider tips
BOTTOM’S UP Try these stylish downtown watering holes for fabulous craft cocktails, beer and wine. Craft & Commerce/ False Idol 675 W. Beech St., Little Italy, 619.269.2202
EMBARCADERO Shop and dine at The Headquarters at Seaport, offering boutiques and galleries; and Seaport Village, with shops, restaurants and galleries such as Wyland Galleries (855 W. Harbor Drive), selling paintings, prints and sculptures by marine life artist Wyland. Grab an iced cappuccino at Upstart Crow Bookstore & Coffeehouse (835-C W. Harbor Drive) and head for the Embarcadero Marina Park, which offers bike and jogging trails, basketball courts and picnicking. Continue north along the harbor to Broadway Pier and embark on sightseeing cruises and/or dinner excursions aboard the Hornblower (970 N. Harbor Drive), or catch the Coronado Ferry (1050 N. Harbor Drive). Make time to tour the retired USS Midway aircraft carrier and the floating Maritime Museum.
Fairweather 795 J St., East Village, 619.255.6507 The Lion’s Share 629 Kettner Blvd., Marina District, 619.564.6924 Noble Experiment 777 G St., East Village, 619.888.4713 The Nolen 453 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.796.6536 Searsucker San Diego 611 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.233.7327 Top of the Hyatt Manchester Grand Hyatt, 1 Market Place, downtown, 619.232.1234 You & Yours Distilling Co. 1495 G St., East Village, 619.955.8755
WFOR A MAP OF THESE NEIGHBORHOODS, SEE P. 62. FOR RESTAURANTS IN THIS AREA, SEE P. 45. WINTER 2018 WHERE SAN DIEGO 17
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SHOPS & GALLERIES
/ ARTS & SCIENCE / GOLDEN TRIANGLE / RECREATION / TORREY PINES
LA JOLLA Translated as “the jewel,” La Jolla is a gem. The upscale village is known for its specialty boutiques, art galleries and fine-dining venues that offer jaw-dropping coastline views. Nearby, hike at Torrey Pines and shop in the Golden Triangle. Verbicky. Joseph Bellows Gallery (7661 Girard Ave.) mounts regular exhibitions of stunning black-and-white photography. La Jolla Boulevard heads south out of the village toward Bird Rock, where worthwhile boutiques for cutting-edge threads for women include Capricorn (5628 La Jolla Blvd.) and Mimi & Red (5680 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 Julian Bakery (5621 La Jolla Blvd.). The ‘hood 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.
Left to right: Shopping at La Plaza La Jolla in La Jolla Village; surfing at Windansea Beach.
The Stuart Collection, a group of site-specific outdoor artworks, 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 works 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).
great find
RETAIL THERAPY Nestled in the heart of La Jolla, SeaMakers & Co. is San Diego’s first “clean beauty” store—stocking organic skin care and cosmetics. Shop for makeup, cleansers, serums, sunscreen, housewares and more amid a bright, beachy-mod decor. Products are made in the U.S.; incorporate sustainable and recycled materials; and are toxin-, chemical- and cruelty-free. 7660 Fay Ave., La Jolla, 858.412.4269
(CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) COURTESY LA PLAZA LA JOLLA, ASHOK SINHA, COURTESY THE HAKE, COURTESY SEAMAKERS & CO.
SHOPS & GALLERIES La Jolla’s stylish streets are lined with high-end boutiques, antique stores and art galleries. Prospect Street and Girard Avenue form the spines of the village shopping district, and hidden gems await on the side streets, including boutique stationery shop Sweet Paper (7660 Fay Ave.); and Las Manos del Artesano (7940 Herschel Ave.), a gallery with Latin American folk art. On Girard, La Plaza La Jolla (7863 Girard Ave.) is a fabulous luxury shopping center. We also 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 female-friendly 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 well-respected 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. Cosmopolitan Fine Arts (7932 Girard Ave.) showcases contemporary French impressionist paintings; MANGELSEN: Images of Nature Gallery (7916 Girard Ave.) spotlights nature and wildlife photography by noted artist Thomas Mangelsen; and 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
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Tuna carnitas at The Hake
insider tips
OCEAN VIEWS Grab a table at these La Jolla restaurants offering gorgeous views of the cove and coastline. Southwest of campus sits the famous Scripps Institution of Oceanography (8622 Kennel Way) and Birch Aquarium (see p. 60); both are top-rated ocean-life learning centers. In La Jolla Village, the oceanview Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (temporarily closed for renovations), is housed in the former home of Ellen Browning Scripps. The Athenaeum Music & Arts Library (1008 Wall St.) features art exhibitions, concerts, 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), Hike Bike Kayak (2222 Avenida de la Playa) and Bike & Kayak Tours (2158 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) 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.
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 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 public courses with stunning ocean views. It’s also the site of the PGA Tour’s annual Farmers Insurance Open.
Brockton Villa 1235 Coast Blvd., La Jolla, 858.454.7393 Cusp Dining & Drinks 7955 La Jolla Shores Drive, La Jolla, 858.551.3620 Duke’s La Jolla 1216 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.5888 Eddie V’s 1270 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.459.5500 George’s at the Cove 1250 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.4244 The Hake 1250 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.1637
GOLDEN TRIANGLE The area east of La Jolla Village is known as the Golden Triangle (or University Town Center, aka “UTC”). Find upscale hotels, fine dining and a shopping district flanked by Westfield UTC, an outdoor mall with shops such as Ben Bridge Jeweler.
Marine Room 2000 Spindrift Drive, La Jolla, 858.459.7222 The Med La Valencia Hotel, 1132 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.0771
WFOR A MAP OF THESE NEIGHBORHOODS, SEE P. 63. FOR RESTAURANTS IN THIS AREA, SEE P. 45. WINTER 2018 WHERE SAN DIEGO 19
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CORONADO
/ SHELTER ISLAND & HARBOR ISLAND / OCEAN BEACH & POINT LOMA / MISSION BEACH
BEACH CITIES 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 1,400seat 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.
CORONADO Coronado is an island with smalltown 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 Coronado Bridge is always a thrill, it’s also great fun to travel by sea. The Coronado/ San Diego Ferry leaves on the hour from downtown’s Broadway Pier between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. (619.234.4111), while San Diego Water Taxi offers on-call transportation around the bay from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (619.235.8294). Upon arrival, check out the shops at Coronado Ferry Landing (1201 First St.), then rent a bike at Pedego Electric Bikes (1132 First St.) 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; Art & Frames by Wood Gallery (936 Orange Ave.), and 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
OCEAN BEACH & POINT LOMA “O.B.” for short, this neighborhood is truly one of San Diego’s most unique. It’s an endless summer of love and sense of community in O.B., an aggregation of aging hippies, surfers, bikers, artists, musicians and other free spirits. 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
great find
ASIAN EATS Coronado gets a dose of Asian fusion with West Pac Noodle Bar. The latest eatery by Blue Bridge Hospitality and chef Tim Kolanko offers poke bowls, dumplings, dim sum and noodles topped with proteins, veggies and house-made broths and sauces. A PacificAsian-inspired decor is highlighted by a communal bar with 24 local beers on tap. 1166 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.522.6890
(CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) BROWN CANNON III/INTERSECTION PHOTOS (X3), COURTESY STAKE CHOPHOUSE, COURTESY BLUE BRIDGE HOSPITALITY
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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& PACIFIC BEACH
Left to right: Surfing and Hodad’s in Ocean Beach; Pacific Beach boardwalk.
heaven for graphic-novel fans. The Corner Store (4873 Newport Ave.) is home to shabby-chic furnishings, tea sets, vintage jewelry and home/garden treasures. Just off Newport, Noon Design Shop (4993 Niagara Ave.) has handmade letterpress cards and jewelry. Wind down the day with a stroll along the Ocean Beach Pier, or romp with the pooches at Ocean Beach Dog Beach. Nearby, Point Loma is home to Liberty Public Market (2820 Historic Decatur Road), the Arts District Liberty Station (2825 Dewey Road) and the Cabrillo National Monument, Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery. The Cabrillo National Monument offers panoramic vistas stretching from San Diego to Mexico. There are also hiking trails, tidepools, a historical lighthouse, and museum exhibits about conquistador Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, the founder of San Diego.
MISSION BEACH & 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 beach volleyball and bayside basketball games. Farther north, check out the star attractions at Belmont Park amusement park: the Giant Dipper, a restored 1925 wooden roller coaster; and WaveHouse (3125 Ocean Front Walk), where you can surf an artificial wave. 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 and is always popular with fishermen during the day.
/ MISSION BAY PARK
The best way to experience this area is to walk along the boardwalk, where people-watching 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, 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. 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.).
Dessert at Stake Chophouse
insider tips
CORONADO MUSTS Spending a sunny day in Coronado? Be sure to visit these cool spots. Bluewater Boathouse Seafood Grill 1701 Strand Way, Coronado, 619.435.0155 Coronado Beach Ocean Boulevard, Coronado Coronado Cays Gondola Rides 503 Grand Caribe Causeway, Coronado, 619.429.6317 Coronado Ferry Landing 1201 First St., Coronado, 619.435.8895
MISSION BAY PARK Mission Bay Park is a 4,000-acre gathering spot to enjoy activities like running, biking, skating, kite-flying, sailing, stand-up paddle boarding and boating. Several sportfishing charters depart daily from Mission Bay, and a variety of watercraft can be rented from nearby shops. The west side of the bay is also home to several resort hotels and world-renowned SeaWorld. Don’t miss the thrilling Shark Encounter and the Turtle Reef exhibition and ride.
Coronado Museum of History & Art 1100 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.7242 Hotel del Coronado 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.6611 Lamb’s Players Theatre 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.6000 Stake Chophouse 1309 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.522.0077
WFOR A MAP OF THESE NEIGHBORHOODS, SEE P. 61. FOR RESTAURANTS IN THIS AREA, SEE P. 45. WINTER 2018 WHERE SAN DIEGO 21
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HILLCREST
/ UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS & MISSION HILLS / NORTH PARK / SOUTH PARK
UPTOWN
HILLCREST 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); art and handmade gifts at Creative Crossroads (502 University Ave.); and olive oils, vinegars, wines and spirits at Vom Fass (1050 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 Bluestocking Books (3817 Fifth Ave.), whose rustic
shelves are lined with many out-of-print and rare tomes. By night, the area lights up with dozens of ethnic restaurants, bars and dance clubs, and an art-house movie theater showing indie films, the Landmark (3965 Fifth Ave.).
UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS & 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 specializing in vintage fashion. University Heights also has an astonishing number of cafes for such a small neighborhood; we love the bohemian vibe at Twiggs Coffeehouse (4590 Park Blvd.). Presenting LGBT-themed productions, Diversionary Theatre (4545 Park Blvd.) is a local theatrical gem.
The streets of Mission Hills, northwest of Hillcrest, are lined with stately homes, quaint cafes and boutiques. Isabela (1111 Fort Stockton Drive) is an elegant skincare boutique; The Patio Express (928 Fort Stockton Drive) offers gourmet pantry items, home decor, and pet and garden products; and Maison en Provence (820 Fort Stockton Drive) is stocked with Frenchcountry home accessories. Presidio Park (619.692.4918) at the western edge of this neighborhood, is historically significant as the site of the first European settlement in California. 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
WFOR A MAP OF THESE NEIGHBORHOODS, SEE P. 61. FOR RESTAURANTS IN THIS AREA, SEE P. 45.
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 decor 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 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; Grafitti Beach (2220 Fern St.), with locally made clothing, home accents and gifts; Grant’s Marketplace (2953 Beech St.) for gourmet groceries; and South Bark Dog Wash (2037 30th St.), to pamper your canines.
(CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) JOSEPH S GIACALONE/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, CITIZEN OF THE PLANET/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, COURTESY IMAGE, COURTESY PAPPALECCO, GREG MARINO
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.
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Pappalecco
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COFFEE TALK In need of a java jolt? These quaint uptown cafes and coffee shops are here to help. But first, coffee ... Caffe Calabria 3933 30th St., North Park, 619.291.1759 Communal Coffee 2335 University Ave., North Park, 619.363.7737 Dark Horse Coffee Roasters 3794 30th St., North Park, 619.955.7447
Left to right: Junípero Serra Museum; Bluestocking Books in Hillcrest; Cafe Madeleine in South Park.
great find
CAFFEINE FIX A modern coffee parlor and small-batch roaster, Holsem Coffee features the highest-grade beans from around the world—with seven core roasts brewed daily. The cafe’s urban decor features original brick columns, raw concrete floors and high ceilings with exposed ducting. And the 25-foot coffee bar boasts a custom 15-tap system for its cold brews. 2911 University Ave., North Park, 619.546.8542
Hawthorn Coffee 3019 Adams Ave., University Heights, 619.501.4882 Heartwork Coffee Bar 3993 Goldfinch St., Mission Hills, 619.293.3300 Influx Cafe 3000 Upas St., North Park, 619.795.0680 Pappalecco 3650 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.906.5566 Subterranean Coffee Boutique 412 University Ave., Hillcrest, 619.756.7513
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DEL MAR
/ SOLANA BEACH / ENCINITAS / CARLSBAD
NORTH COAST San Diego’s North County coastal communities have a certain charm and slower pace that must be experienced firsthand to fully appreciate. Its many quaint pockets offer the best in boutique shopping, gallery hopping and beaches.
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 quarter-mile 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 ecoconscious cafe with preferred parking for electric and hybrid cars. This stretch of Cedros is also home to Susan Street Fine Art (200 N. Cedros Ave.), a contemporary art gallery; and Tobi Blatt (152 N. Cedros Ave.), which stocks women’s clothing from coveted labels. Cross Lomas Santa Fe to explore South Cedros. We love Cedros Soles (143 S. Cedros Ave.) for 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 decor items and other coastal lifestyle accessories; and Aaron Chang Ocean Art Gallery (415 S. Cedros Ave., #110). Linger long enough to smile at dogs and their humans coming and going at Muttropolis (227 S. Cedros Ave.), which sells premium pet supplies. You’ll also find hip home decor and art books at Solo (309 S. Cedros Ave.), and everything for the modern garden at
Left to right: Better Buzz Coffee Roasters in Encinitas; The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch.
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 (143 S. Cedros Ave.), a landmark for 40 years and counting.
ENCINITAS & CARDIFF-BY-THE-SEA Heading north on 101 from Solana Beach, you’ll pass through the surf community of Cardiffby-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 blos-
great find
CENTER STAGE It’s regional theater at its best at North Coast Repertory Theatre, a leading performing arts organization—showcasing diverse productions year-round in its 194-seat theater. Winter 2018 highlights include the San Diego premiere of Around the World in 80 Days, Jan. 10-Feb. 4; and West Coast premiere of This Random World, Feb. 21-March 18. 987 Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach, 858.481.1055
(CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) SAM WELLS, EDWIN SANTIAGO, COURTESY OMA, COURTESY NORTH COAST REP
DEL MAR Del Mar’s celebrity status began more than 70 years ago, when the oceanside paradise became the home of the Del Mar Racetrack (2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd.). Celebs Bing Crosby and Pat O’Brien helped establish the track—and its track record for hosting the Hollywood elite at the Thoroughbred Club. Ava Gardner, W.C. Fields, Lucille Ball, Desi Arnaz, Jimmy Durante and Mickey Rooney were among the regulars in the late 1930s, ‘40s and ‘50s. Today, racing season runs from mid-July to early September (then returns for the month of November), but fun events are held at the Del Mar Fairgrounds year-round. Jimmy Durante Boulevard— named for the famous entertainer who lived in Del Mar—paves the way from the track to the heart of the village. The intersection of Camino Del Mar and 15th Street forms Del Mar’s center. The Del Mar Plaza has scenic fountains and sweeping ocean views, plus upscale shops, clothing boutiques and restaurants. 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 cafes and eateries. Great shopping continues east of the fairgrounds 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.
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“Vertical State” at OMA
insider tips
FIELD TRIP For more fabulous cultural destinations and dining, head a bit farther north to Oceanside. som–shaped towers, dates back to 1937. A portion of the grounds is open and free to the public. A stroll through the lush, cliffside gardens offers views of surfers at nearby Swami’s Beach (1298 S. Coast Hwy. 101), a popular break for longboarders. Stock up on gear 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. Don’t miss DeepFling, with silver jewelry from Scandinavian designers. The Lumberyard also has an array of wine bars, eateries and cafes, 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. Pacific Station is a favorite—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, showcasing 3,000 rare and exotic plants.
CARLSBAD Downtown Carlsbad is a picturesque seaside village. Along Carlsbad Village Drive, you’ll find Frazier’s Well (2802 Carlsbad Blvd.), where infamous sea captain John Frazier discovered mineral water back in 1882.
California Surf Museum 312 Pier View Way, Oceanside, 760.721.6876
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; as well as unique Colonial Era artifacts at Green Dragon Museum. Continuing along Palomar Airport Road, popular attraction Legoland is 128 acres of kid-friendly entertainment that includes the Sea Life Aquarium. Nearby, the Museum of Making Music 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, an outdoor, Spanishstyle shopping mall.
Flying Pig Pub & Kitchen 626 S. Tremont St., Oceanside, 760.453.2940 Harney Sushi 301 Mission Ave., Oceanside, 760.967.1820 Mission San Luis Rey de Francia 4050 Mission Ave., Oceanside, 760.757.3651 Oceanside Museum of Art (OMA) 704 Pier View Way, Oceanside, 760.435.3720 Oceanside Pier The Strand N., Oceanside The Whet Noodle 1813 S. Coast Hwy., Oceanside, 760.453.2738 Wrench and Rodent Seabasstropub 1815 S. Coast Hwy., Oceanside, 760.271.0531
WFOR A MAP OF THESE NEIGHBORHOODS, SEE P. 63. FOR RESTAURANTS IN THIS AREA, SEE P. 45. WINTER 2018 WHERE SAN DIEGO 25
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ARTS & CULTURE
/ SCIENCE & HISTORY / ATTRACTIONS & GARDENS / RECREATION / DINING
BALBOA PARK 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 evokes that of an Old World town square. 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 PanamaCalifornia 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. A staple since 1935, The Old Globe theater presents superior theatrical talent with its world-renowned plays and musicals. Elsewhere in the park, the Marie Hitchcock Puppet Theatre presents whimsical puppet shows, while the famous Spreckels Organ Pavilion houses the world’s largest outdoor pipe organ, now with more than 5,000 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 and 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-era works, plus a large Asian collection. The worldclass Museum of Photographic Arts (MOPA) showcases compelling photography and presents films in its state-of-the-art theater. 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
WFOR A MAP OF THESE NEIGHBORHOODS, SEE P. 62. FOR RESTAURANTS IN THIS AREA, SEE P. 45.
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 Fleet Science Center has interactive science exhibitions and an IMAX Giant Dome theater. 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—with a focus on Southern California and Baja—via exciting interactive and educational media.
(CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) EDWIN SANTIAGO, COURTESY SAN DIEGO ZOO, JON BILOUS/ALAMY STOCK PHOTO, COURTESY CRG, COURTESY S.D. NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM
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.
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Filet mignon at The Prado
insider tips
EAT SHEET Looking to grab a bite, a pint or cappuccino? Check out the park’s dining and drinking outposts. Albert’s Restaurant 2920 Zoo Drive, 619.685.3200 Balboa Park Village Grill 1770 Village Place, 619.702.2428 Cafe Mingei 1439 El Prado, 619.239.0003 Flight Path Grill San Diego Air & Space Museum, 2001 Pan American Plaza, 619.234.8291 Left to right: Museum of Man; elephants at San Diego Zoo; Botanical Building and lily pond.
great find
MUSEUM MARVEL The San Diego Natural History Museum has unveiled a new exhibit, Unshelved: Cool Stuff from Storage, going behind the scenes in its research collection areas and storage spaces. Explore specimens from all over the world—including brilliant gems and minerals, gigantic bats, a 20-foot-long anaconda skin, a sperm whale jaw (pictured), and a wall of skulls. 1788 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.3821
Lady Carolyn’s Pub 1363 Old Globe Way, 619.231.1941 Panama 66 1450 El Prado, 619.696.1966 Poppy’s Patio Zoo Place, 619.231.1515 The Prado at Balboa Park 1549 El Prado, 619.557.9441 The Tea Pavilion 2215 Pan American Plaza, 619.231.0048
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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 The park’s major attraction is, of course, the 100-year-old San Diego Zoo, 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 all the adorable giant pandas. After visiting the zoo, try your hand at the brass ring game from your perch atop a hand-carved pony on the Balboa Park Carousel. Both kids and grown-ups are welcome on the Balboa Park Miniature Railroad, which takes a three-minute, halfmile 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 striking Botanical Building is among the world’s largest lath structures; along with its gorgeous Lily Pond in front of the building, it’s one
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of the park’s most photographed, scenic and romantic sites.
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.
CLOSING DAYS! DON'T MISS IT! sandiegoairandspace.org
•
619.234.8291
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 delicious Latin 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 Cafe Mingei located in the Mingei International Museum; Flight Path Grill, an outdoor restaurant at the San Diego Air & Space Museum serving hot dogs, hamburgers, pizza and salads; and dog-friendly outdoor gastropub Panama 66, serving craft beer, cocktails and local fare at The San Diego Museum of Art. WINTER 2018 WHERE SAN DIEGO 29
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Quality Ingredients. Authentic Flavors.
Made-from-scratch pastas, fresh seafood and prime steaks in a casual coastal setting 760.634.2365
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10/31/17 12:36 PM
DINING
Just Add Chopsticks A protégé of Pacific Beach’s cult-followed Sushi Ota, Executive Chef Mitsu Aihara has opened Himitsu in La Jolla—serving up traditional sashimi and nigiri sushi, specialty rolls and creative small plates. Seating just 30 guests—with eight bar seats and 22 outdoor patio seats— the discreet, Tokyo-inspired eatery (whose name translates to “secret” in Japanese) promises an intimate, casual experience where the food does the talking. Choose from Japanese-style tapas such as miso black cod; braised pork belly with miso mole sauce, cauliflower and asparagus; and fried oysters. Among the rolls, the signature Himitsu Roll is a standout—loaded with fried salmon, crab, scallops, jalapeño, cilantro aioli and lemon zest. To drink, choose from a vast sake selection, plus wine and both Japanese and local beers. 1030 Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, 858.263.4463
COURTESY HIMITSU
ns.
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/ DINING AMERICAN BACKYARD KITCHEN & TAP Casual and laid-back hotspot offers coastal American cuisine in an airy, indoor/outdoor space. Menu features a range of signature flatbreads, steak and fresh fish entrees, plus local beer and craft cocktails. D (nightly), L (M-Th), Br (F-Su). 832 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach, 858.859.2593. $$ Map H8 BANKERS HILL BAR & RESTAURANT Mismatched antique chairs decorate this casual spot with an urbanindustrial vibe. A seasonal menu includes braised pork tacos, an excellent burger and their famous truffled fries. D (nightly), Br (Su). 2202 Fourth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.231.0222. $$$ 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. $$ Map Q16
A Piece of Peru Liberty Station welcomes Pisco Rotisserie & Cevicheria, the brainchild of Peruvian chef Emmanuel Piqueras. Inside this cheery, colorful space outfitted with paper parasols, find modern and traditional Peruvian dishes, rotisserie chicken, ceviche and pisco-based libations. The ceviche bar alone is outstanding. Try the Martini de Tigre (pictured) with calamari, shrimp, white fish, bay scallops, octopus, spicy aji amarillo peppers, leche de tigre (a citrus marinade) and toasted corn; or the ahi tuna ceviche with avocado, cucumber, wasabi tobiko and rocoto cream. Mains include seared pisco fish, braised lamb shoulder, and a rotisserie chicken marinated with Peruvian spices for 48 hours. Wash it down with one of a dozen different pisco cocktails. 2401 Truxtun Road, Suite 102, Point Loma, 619.222.3111
THE BREW PROJECT A craft beer-centric bar, restaurant and bottle shop with 24 taps of an always-rotating selection of regional microbrews; plus red, white and sparkling wine; kombucha and cold-brew coffee on draft; and a full cocktail bar. To eat: artisanal sandwiches, sliders, salads and cross-cut fries. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 3683 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.795.7890. $$ Map N16 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. $$ Map W19 BROOKLYN GIRL EATERY This trendy neighborhood joint is known for its complimentary daily popcorn and urban Brooklyn pantry vibe. Try the gnocchi and short rib entree. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 4033 Goldfinch St., Mission Hills, 619.296.4600. $$$ Map M15 CAMPFIRE The striking new indoor/outdoor restaurant features campground-inspired decor, wood-fired dishes and smoky craft cocktails. L (Tu-Su), D (nightly). 2725 State St., Carlsbad, 760.637.5121. $$$ Map T22 CAROLINE’S SEASIDE CAFE BY GIUSEPPE Overlooking the Pacific, the contemporary indoor/outdoor cafe serves healthy, organic California fare. Try the vegetablepesto wrap or white albacore tuna salad sandwich for lunch; and the smoked salmon egg scramble for weekend brunch. B (M-F), L (daily), Br (Sa-Su). 8610 Kennel Way, La Jolla, 858.202.0569. $$ Map U20 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. $$$ Map W22 CLAIM JUMPER This popular saloon-style chain offers something for everyone—from Southern-style comfort dishes such as country-fried steak and chicken pot pie; to seafood, pasta, pizza, burgers, soups and salads. The eatery even offers its own label of craft beer; plus happy hour daily at most locations. B (daily at new Wyndham San Diego Bayside location only); L, D (daily); Br (Su at La Mesa and Carmel Mountain locations). Visit claimjumper.com for addresses and more info. $$ CRAFT & COMMERCE Sip inventive craft cocktails at its taxidermy-adorned main bar or in its speakeasystyle tiki lounge, False Idol; or nosh on refined gastropub fare in its cozy-chic library. Must-try dishes include the bone marrow and chicken-fried quail. D (nightly), L (Sa-Su). 675 W. Beech St., Little Italy, 619.269.2202. $$$ Map P15
GUIDELINES
Restaurants are listed by city on page 45. Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps on pages 60-63. Compendium includes editors’ recommendations and advertisers.
INDEX American.........................32 Japanese/Pacific Rim....39 Breakfast.........................34 Mexican/Southwestern.40 California Cuisine...........34 Seafood......................... 41 French.............................36 Steak............................. 43 International...................36 Thai............................... 43 Italian...............................37 Wine Bars..................... 44
CRAFTSMAN NEW AMERICAN TAVERN This stylish Encinitas watering hole serves up the Devil’s Free Range Chicken, deep-fried Brussels sprouts and Root Beer Cake. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Su). 267 El Camino Real, Encinitas, 760.452.2000. $$ Map V22 DECOY DOCKSIDE DINING This lakefront restaurant features a generous dining deck, floating bar, creative and classic cocktails, and delicious new American cuisine ranging from buttermilk-fried quail to homemade pasta to seafood dishes. D (nightly). 1035 La Bonita Drive, San Marcos, 760.653.3230. $$$ Map B3 DRAFT Quench your thirst with an extensive list of local and international beers. Beachside dining serves up casual, handcrafted fare, such as pretzel bites, lobster mac ’n’ cheese, burgers and buffalo wings. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 3105 Ocean Front Walk, Mission Beach, 858.228.9305. $$ Map I8 GARAGE KITCHEN + BAR This hip hangout housed in a historical building features a music motif and menu of craft cocktails and new American eats—including flatbreads, sandwiches, salads and entrees like duck confit with ancient grain risotto. Br (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 655 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.231.6700. $$ Map Q16 GREEN DRAGON TAVERN Inside this New Englandstyle tavern, choose from one of 20 craft brews on tap, and feast on American comfort cuisine, including Maine lobster rolls, New England clam chowder and the Paul Revere burger. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 6115 Paseo del Norte, Carlsbad, 760.918.2421. $$ 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 HERB & WOOD Dine on wood-fired dishes and sip old-school cocktails inside Brian Malarkey’s sprawling warehouse-turned-chic hotspot. D (Tu-Su). 2210 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.955.8495. $$$$ Map P15 HERRINGBONE Expect farm-to-sea American dishes with global influences, handcrafted cocktails and 100-year-old olive trees enhancing the upscale decor inside this refined warehouse-style space. L (M-Sa), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 7837 Herschel Ave., La Jolla, 858.459.0221. $$$ Map W19 HODAD’S World-renowned burger joint with fresh toppings, huge portions, onion rings, milkshakes and microbrews on tap. Try the double bacon cheeseburger if you dare. L, D (daily). 5010 Newport Ave., Ocean Beach, 619.224.4623, Map J8; 945 Broadway, downtown, 619.234.6323. $$ Map Q17
W In the mood for sushi? Try one of the county’s popular outposts for authentic and creative fare—including Nobu and Shino Sushi + Kappo. pp. 39-40.
MEDIUM RAW ARTS
THE GUIDE
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DINING HORNBLOWER CRUISES Celebrate a special occasion or surprise your sweetheart with a three-hour dinner cruise aboard a luxury yacht along San Diego’s stunning waterfront. Enjoy a three-course meal, chilled sparkling wine and dancing. D (nightly). 970 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.686.8715. $$ 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. $$ Map K9 KETTNER EXCHANGE Little Italy hotspot offers progressive American dishes such as big-eye tuna pizza and gluten-free gnocchi. Downstairs is a sumptuous space with a two-way fireplace; upstairs is a sprawling rooftop lounge. D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 2001 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.255.2001. $$$ Map P15 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. $$ Map W19 MISTER A’S Incredible 12th-floor views and romantic ambiance complemented by fresh, seasonal ingredients. Appetizers range from mac ‘n’ cheese to pan-seared scallops, plus an outstanding wine list. L (M–F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 2550 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.239.1377. $$$$ Map O16 MUSEUM CAFE Located inside the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, this Euro-style cafe serves scrambles, granola and pancakes among its breakfast dishes; and organic salads, burgers and sandwiches for lunch. B, L (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 700 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.456.6427. $$ Map W19 NEIGHBORHOOD This gastropub is a bit snobbish about its condiments (you’ll find no ketchup here), but makes up for it with tasty gourmet burgers, hand-cut sweet potato fries and craft brews. L, D (daily). 777 G St., East Village, 619.446.0002. $$ Map Q16 ONE DOOR NORTH Inspired by the great outdoors, the upscale-casual eatery houses safari-style dining tents and serves “campfire cuisine,” such as grilled street corn, smoky burgers and toasted s’mores bars for dessert. D (nightly). 3422 30th St., North Park, 619.618.1285. $$$ Map J12 PACIFIC STANDARD COASTAL KITCHEN Dine on hearty American cuisine using local ingredients inside this bright, modern culinary outpost at the Hilton Garden Inn. Try the cassoulet topped with duck confit, the steak frites and house-made brioche bread with ricotta cheese. B, L, D (daily). 2137 Pacific Hwy., Little Italy, 619.819.0090. $$$ Map O15 THE RED DOOR This refined yet homey eatery features upscale American comfort fare with produce from owner Trish Watlington’s own garden. Try the always-changing farm-to-fork salad, the lamb meatballs and garden ravioli. Plus, culinary-infused cocktails at Bar by Red Door next door. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 741 W. Washington St., Mission Hills, 619.295.6000. $$$ Map N15 SEARSUCKER At this hotspot, chef 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. $$$ Map X22 SLATER’S 50/50 Design your own gourmet burger, or choose from one of 10 specialty burgers, including the Peanut Butter & Jellousy burger with peanut butter, strawberry jelly and bacon. Signature patty is the 50/50 with ground beef and bacon. Plus craft beer and fun cocktails. L, D (daily); B (Su). 2750 Dewey Road, #193, Point Loma, 619.398.2600. $$ Map J9
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DINING
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. $$ Map H7
A playful twist on traditional s’mores at Campfire in Carlsbad
SOLACE & THE MOONLIGHT LOUNGE The second eatery and bar by chef Matt Gordon, this North County favorite serves upscale comfort food with a focus on seafood. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 25 East E St., Encinitas, 760.753.2433. $$$ 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, sandwich, pizza, salad, mac ’n’ cheese and more. Plus, a full bar. L, D (daily). 7007 Friars Road, #356, Fashion Valley, 619.225.7900. $$ Map M16 UNION KITCHEN & TAP Beer, craft cocktails and boutique wines are all on the menu—perfect to wash down a bison burger, sweet potato poutine or other tavern-style grub. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1108 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.230.2337, Map V22; 333 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.795.9463. $$ 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. $$$ Map N17
BREAKFAST BEACH GRASS CAFE Breezy, casual-chic eatery by the beach serves up a health-conscious menu of granola, flapjacks, salads and more. B, L, D (daily). 159 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Solana Beach, 858.509.0632. $$ Map X22 BREAKFAST REPUBLIC Breakfast-centric eatery serves fun spins on classic dishes, such as Oreo pancakes, s’mores French toast, breakfast hot dogs and turkeymeatball hash. B, L (daily); D (nightly at Liberty Station locale only). 2865 Sims Road, #106, Liberty Station, 619.693.5434, Map J9; 251 N. El Camino Real, Encinitas, 760.452.2121, Map V22; 2730 University Ave., North Park, 619.642.0299. $$ Map J12 BRIAN’S 24 Old-school clubby spot features a mahogany bar, crystal chandelier and 24-hour dining (midnight brunch, anyone?). Burgers, steaks and chicken ‘n’ waffles, too. B, L, D (daily). 828 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.702.8410. $ Map Q16 CAFE 222 Locals line up in droves for Cafe 222’s quirky American cuisine and whimsical decor. Popular menu items include the peanut butter waffle with bananas at breakfast; tuna melts, salads and more at lunch. B, L (daily). 222 Island Ave., downtown, 619.236.9902. $ Map R15 THE COTTAGE Housed in a charming turn-of-thecentury home complete with a quaint garden patio. All the usual dishes for breakfast; sandwiches, salads and burgers at lunch. B, L (daily). 7702 Fay Ave., La Jolla, 858.454.8409. $ Map W19
THE MISSION Acclaimed local mini-chain is known for pancakes, French toast, smoothies, breakfast burritos and health-conscious Latin dishes. B, L (daily). 3795 Mission Blvd., Mission Beach, 858.488.9060, Map I8; 2801 University Ave., North Park, 619.220.8992, Map J12; 1250 J St., East Village, 619.232.7662. $ Map Q17 RICHARD WALKER’S PANCAKE HOUSE Popular casual spot with a huge selection of mouthwatering flapjacks and other breakfast and lunch fare. Favorites include the baked apple pancake. B, L (daily). 520 Front St., downtown, 619.231.7777, Map Q15; 909 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.459.8800. $ Map W19 SNOOZE, AN A.M. EATERY This bright, energetic joint features breakfast and brunch faves like eggs Benedict, pancakes, French toast, cocktails, a fun coffee menu and a breakfast potpie. B, L (daily). 3940 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.500.3344, Map N16; 3435 Del Mar Heights Road, Del Mar, 858.703.5300, Map X22; 8861 Villa La Jolla Drive, La Jolla, 858.483.5556. $$ Map W19 WOW WOW WAFFLE The waffles at this hidden gem are truly wow-worthy—with Belgian-style sweet and savory selections. We love the Number Seven with brownsugar bacon, avocado and goat cheese. B, L (Th-Su). 3519 30th St., North Park, 619.806.0345. $$ Map J12
CALIFORNIA CUISINE 1500 OCEAN House-made pastas and adventurous starters define this special-occasion spot, complete with an ocean-view terrace, beach cabanas and a wine cellar. D (Tu-Sa). Hotel del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.522.8490. $$$$ Map L10 ARTERRA A favorite power-lunch spot with a seasonal menu, plus a sushi bar and outdoor lounge with fire pits and cabanas. B (daily), L (M–F), D (M– Sa). Marriott Del Mar, 11966 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.369.6032. $$$ Map X22 BULLY’S This North County staple since 1967 is famous for its prime rib and steaks, but also features salads, sandwiches, chicken, seafood and cocktails—served in a pub setting with racehorse-themed decor. L, D (daily). 404 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.755.1660. $$$ Map X22 BURGER LOUNGE Home of the “original grassfed burger,” this local chain caters to carnivores and vegetarians with a menu focused on sustainable, quality ingredients. L, D (daily). 922 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.6835, Map L10; 1101 Wall St., La Jolla, 858.456.0196, Map W19; 1608 India St., Little Italy, 619.237.7878. $$ Map P15 (Visit burgerlounge.com for additional locations.) CARNITAS’ SNACK SHACK This pork-centric eatery by Hanis Cavin serves a fun menu of smoky meat dishes, sandwiches, carnitas tacos, cocktails and soft-serve ice cream. Don’t miss the Triple Threat sandwich. Visit carnitassnackshack.com for hours. 2632 University Ave., North Park, 619.294.7675, Map J12; 1004 N. Harbor Drive, downtown, 619.696.7675. $$ Map Q15 THE CRACK SHACK This hip outdoor eatery serves all-day chicken and egg dishes; plus a full bar and bocce court. B, L, D (daily). 2266 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.795.3299. $$$ Map P15
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. $$$ Map V20 EAT AT THE PEARL Explore a coastal California menu at The Pearl hotel’s retro-cool eatery—with seasonal dishes where simple flavors rule; we love the duck breast, gluten-free gnocchi and shrimp ‘n’ grits. D (M-Sa), Br (Su). 1410 Rosecrans St., Point Loma, 619.226.6100. $$ Map J8 FIRESIDE BY THE PATIO The sprawling indoor/outdoor eatery focuses on wood-fired, charcoal-grilled, globally inspired cuisine. Think flatbreads, salads, smoked chicken and pork rib entrees, and a yakitori menu. Great wine list and dog-friendly patio. L, D (daily). 2855 Perry Road, Bldg. 8, Point Loma, 619.432.2100. $$ Map J9 THE FLYING PIG PUB AND KITCHEN This foodieapproved restaurant features farm-to-table cuisine focused on Cali-American dishes. Think handmade pasta, organic salads and Duroc pork belly. D (nightly). 626 S. Tremont St., Oceanside, 760.453.2940. $$$ Map S22 GEORGE’S AT THE COVE La Jolla institution comprises three levels (from elegant to casual) of ocean views. Chef Trey Foshee creates seafood, steak and regional dishes. Mid-level bar is a great happy hour spot. L, D (daily). 1250 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.4244. $$$$ Map W19 GRANT GRILL Expect seasonal dishes with ingredients native to the region—jumbo diver scallops are a signature dish—while Jeff Josenhans crafts his mixology magic behind the bar, all housed inside the historical US Grant hotel. B, L, D (daily). 326 Broadway, downtown, 619.744.2077. $$$$ Map Q16 GREAT MAPLE This upscale “diner” serves comfort food and serious drinks. Choose from salads, burgers, sandwiches, seafood, pasta and flatbread pizzas, but save room for house-made apple pie or the popular maplebacon doughnuts. B, L (M-F); D (Tu-Su); Br (Sa-Su). 1451 Washington St., Hillcrest, 619.255.2282. $$ 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. $$$ Map H7 JSIX Modern restaurant inside Hotel Solamar features seasonal dishes inspired by the coastline and area farms, lots of handcrafted elements and wines from Washington to Baja; plus craft cocktails. B, L, D (daily); Br (SaSu). 616 J St., Gaslamp, 619.531.8744. $$$ Map Q16 JUNIPER & IVY Top Chef star Richard Blais oversees the modern Cali-American menu loaded with artisanal dishes—from raw seafood, pastas and small plates, to mains such as prime strip loin and local chicken served with English pea gnocchi. D (nightly). 2228 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.269.9036. $$$ Map P15 KITCHEN 1540 Expect seasonal dishes such as Kona kampachi, green tomato gazpacho, Hampshire pork belly, Skuna Bay salmon and dry-aged New York steak at this chic eatery at L’Auberge Del Mar resort. Ask for a table on the outdoor patio. D (Tu-Su), Br (Sa-Su). 1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.793.6460. $$$$ Map X22 LEROY’S KITCHEN & LOUNGE Recognized for its farm-to-table fare, Leroy’s offers seafood, meat and pasta dishes. Favorites include roasted rainbow trout and duck pot pie. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1015 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.6087. $$ Map L11 MADISON Nosh on SoCal-Med cuisine inside a sleek, cedar-walled space with vaulted ceilings; plus a trendy bar and lounge with unique cocktails. D (Tu-Su), Br (SaSu). 4622 Park Blvd., University Heights, 619.269.6566. $$$ Map M17
LYUDMILA ZOTOVA
HASH HOUSE A GO GO Huge portions of “twisted farm food” that will make your eyes bulge: egg scrambles, hashes and more arrive on massive platters, speared with a giant rosemary branch. Housed in a rustic-urban bungalow with a quaint back patio. B, L (daily); D (Tu-Su). 3628 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.298.4646. $$ Map N16
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DINING MARINE ROOM Outstanding nouveau French-infused California cuisine 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. $$$$ Map W20 MARKET RESTAURANT + BAR Chef Carl Schroeder crafts modern cuisine using local produce, handmade cheeses and locally raised meat. Highlights include the blue cheese soufflé, market veggie tasting and Meyer lemon-cream crepes. D (nightly). 3702 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.523.0007. $$$$ Map X22 NINE-TEN Award-winning chef Jason Knibb creates evolving California cuisine from local, organic ingredients. The Jamaican jerk pork belly appetizer and the braised short rib entree are highlights. B, L, D (daily). 910 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.964.5400. $$$ Map V19 PACIFIC BEACH ALE HOUSE This microbrewery and restaurant features an upper deck with ocean views. Grab a house-brewed beer or cocktail, and choose from flatbreads, burgers and salads. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 721 Grand Ave., Pacific Beach, 858.581.2337. $$ Map H8 THE PATIO ON GOLDFINCH Casual neighborhood spot features a glass-encased cheese cave and two “living walls.” Seasonal menu includes salads, flatbreads, seafood and meat dishes; as well as cocktails, global wines and local craft beers. B, L (M-F); D (nightly); Br (Sa-Su). 4020 Goldfinch St., Mission Hills, 619.501.5090. $$$ Map N15 THE PATIO ON LAMONT This popular neighborhood nook features craft cocktails, beer and a global menu of small plates, salads, flatbreads and entrees with California influences. 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 SAMMY’S WOODFIRED PIZZA This locals’ favorite is known for its wood-fired pizzas and healthy global cuisine with vegetarian and gluten-free options. Choose from creative pies, salads, tapas, wraps and pasta dishes. L, D (daily). 12925 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.259.6600, Map X22; 1620 Camino de la Reina, Mission Valley, 619.298.8222. $$ Map M16 (Visit sammyspizza.com for additional locations.) SEASONS 52 This upscale-casual wine bar and grill serves seasonal American dishes—think flatbreads, salads and cedar plank-roasted salmon—plus organic craft cocktails and international wines. L, D (daily). 789 W. Harbor Drive, #134, downtown, 619.702.0052, Map Q15; 4505 La Jolla Village Drive, UTC, 858.450.1252. $$$ Map T21 STARLITE Dazzling interior design and a cool back patio 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. $$ Map O15 WAYPOINT PUBLIC Laid-back gastropub features 100 international beers; a custom 30-tap system focused on West Coast craft brews; and comfort dishes such as the buttermilk-fried chicken and biscuit sandwich. D (nightly), L (W-F), Br (Sa-Su). 3794 30th St., North Park, 619.255.8778. $$ 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. $$$ Map W19
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DINING FRENCH ADDISON Executive Chef William Bradley creates delectable, elegant dishes from local ingredients at this ultra-fine-dining restaurant at Fairmont Grand Del Mar. It’s the only AAA Five Diamond Restaurant and Forbes Five-Star Restaurant in SoCal. D (Tu-Sa). 5200 Grand Del Mar Way, Del Mar, 858.314.1900. $$$$ Map X22
Taste of Mexico
BLEU BOHEME Kensington’s charming bistro, with its candlelit rooms and old-world European ambiance, is known for its traditional French fare—including mussels, coq au vin and boeuf bourguignon. L, D (daily). 4090 Adams Ave., Kensington, 619.255.4167. $$$ Map I12 BO-BEAU KITCHEN 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; 1027 University Ave., Hillcrest, 619.481.5033. $$$ Map N17 LA BONNE TABLE It’s a tiny, romantic French bistro with a big heart. Enjoy steak frites, French onion soup, mussels, escargot and French cocktails amid twinkling lights and candlelight. D (M-Sa). 3696 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest, 619.260.8039. $$$ Map N16 CAFE 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. $$ Map Q17 THE FRENCH GOURMET This quaint restaurant, bakery and wine shop serves California-influenced French cuisine. Entrees include duck confit, rack of lamb to vegetarian ratatouille. Visit the bakery for to-go sandwiches, cheese, charcuterie and desserts. B, L (daily); D (Tu-Sa). 960 Turquoise St., Pacific Beach, 858.488.1725. $$ Map H8
Happy Hour
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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. $$$$ Map W23 PAMPLEMOUSSE GRILLE Chef Jeffrey Strauss presents a country-French–influenced American menu in a quirky, casually elegant setting near the racetrack. Don’t miss the basil-roasted sea bass with sauteed rock shrimp and a polenta cake. L (F), D (nightly). 514 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.792.9090. $$$$ Map W22 PARC BISTRO-BRASSERIE Dine on exceptional, refined French dishes and seafood inside this elegant neighborhood bistro that blends Old World charm with contemporary touches. Standouts include the escargot and duck confit. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 2760 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.795.150. $$$ Map P16 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. $$$ Map J12
INTERNATIONAL CAFE SEVILLA A celebrated staple of the Gaslamp, Cafe Sevilla still serves up the same Spanish tapas, seafood specialties, and flamenco and salsa lessons that have made it a longtime locals’ favorite. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 353 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.5979. $$$ Map R16 COSTA BRAVA Coastal eatery serves Spain’s greatest hits, from jamón iberico to paella to tapas to sangria. Live music throughout the week. L, D (daily). 1653 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach, 858.273.1218. $$$ Map H8 THE HAKE Inspired by global brasseries, the newly renovated restaurant focuses on seasonal seafood with
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voteD best seafood built in 1887 next to the hotel del coronado
DINING Mediterranean, Latin American and Asian influences. Enjoy large shareable plates and tapas-style dishes; plus award-winning wine and cocktail programs; and lovely views of La Jolla Cove and the ocean. D (nightly). 1250 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.1637. $$$ Map W19 INDIGO GRILL The popular 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. Plus an outdoor patio along India Street. D (nightly). 1536 India St., Little Italy, 619.234.6802. $$$ Map P15 MISS B’S COCONUT CLUB This laid-back hangout features an open-air bar, Caribbean-inspired fare and tropical cocktails. Try the curried coconut mussels and the jerk-rubbed chicken wings. Br, L, D (daily). 3704 Mission Blvd., Mission Beach, 858.381.0855. $$ Map H7 THE PRADO Its dramatic garden patio is lovely, and the eclectic American menu is spiked with Latin/Italian flair. Try the lobster bucatini and the chicken and gnocchi dumplings with bacon. L (daily), D (Tu-Su). 1549 El Prado, House of Hospitality, Balboa Park, 619.557.9441. $$$ Map O17
Classic and Contemporary Seafood · Sustainable · Lunch · Dinner · Brunch Happy Hour · Kids Menu · Full Bar · Patio · Pet Friendly · Ample Free Parking come in, get hooked bluewatergrill.com
1701 strand way tel 619 435 0155
carlsbad now open! santa barbara coming 2018
Q’ERO RESTAURANT A cozy Peruvian restaurant featuring regional classics such as lomo saltado and the signature beverage, chicha morada, made from purple corn. L, D (W-Sa). 564 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.753.9050. $$ Map V22 QUEENSTOWN PUBLIC HOUSE Salads, burgers and specialties like fish ‘n’ chips rule the menu at this New Zealand-inspired eatery, featuring a charming dining porch and dog-friendly dining lawn and patio. 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
WE’RE MORE THAN MEATS THE PLATE SAN DIEGO 285 J Street 619.696.3369 Mortons.com
SOLTAN BANOO Eclectic, casual Persian restaurant featuring authentic lamb, beef, vegetarian and curry dishes with fragrant basmati rice. L (daily), D (nightly). 4645 Park Blvd., University Heights, 619.298.2801. $$ Map M18 TAPAS & BEERS Relaxed, casual space features a Mediterranean-inspired menu of small plates ideal for sharing— cured meats, crostini, hummus—plus flatbreads, sandwiches, salads and paella. To drink, enjoy a glass of wine or local craft beer. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 926 Broadway Circle, downtown, 619.564.7255. $$ Map Q16
ITALIAN ALEXANDER’S Romantic neighborhood eatery known for its darling back patio, white-on-white decor, 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 BARBUSA The stylishly modern trattoria is owned by the Busalacchi family. On the menu: updated Sicilian classics such as the Arancini Trio (stuffed risotto balls), handmade pastas, pizzas and seasonal cocktails. Don’t miss the Nutella-banana tiramisu for dessert. L, D (daily). 1917 India St., Little Italy, 619.238.1917. $$$ Map P15 BENCOTTO This mod spot in the Q building earns raves for simple but well-executed create-your-own pasta dishes
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DINING and other Italian specialities. L, D (Tu-Su). 750 W. Fir St., Little Italy, 619.450.4786. $$$ Map P15 BOTTEGA AMERICANO This Euro-style “foodery” features interactive food bars (including a raw bar with fresh shellfish) and full-service dining. On the menu: stone-fired pizzas, handmade pasta, wine, cocktails and authentic desserts. L, D (daily). 1195 Island Ave., East Village, 619.255.7800. $$$ Map Q16 BUONA FORCHETTA The wood-fired oven named “Sofia” takes center stage at this cozy corner eatery known for its traditional Neapolitan pizza, house-made pastas and tiramisu. Don’t miss the “pasta of the day” special. L (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 3001 Beech St., South Park, 619.381.4844. $$ Map K12 CAFFE BELLA ITALIA Sample delectable 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. $$ Map H8 CATANIA COASTAL ITALIAN Enjoy authentic coastal Italian fare and 180-degree ocean views in the heart of La Jolla. The menu features salads, small plates, woodfired pizzas, pastas and entrees like whole-roasted branzino. Save room for the semifreddo for dessert. L, D (daily). 7863 Girard Ave., #301, La Jolla, 858.551.5105. $$$ Map W19 CIVICO 1845 Contemporary Italian bistro features a warm decor clad with reclaimed wood, a patio, handmade pastas and traditional entrees; plus a separate all-vegan menu. L, D (daily). 1845 India St., Little Italy, 619.431.5990. $$ Map P15 CUCINA ENOTECA Located at Flower Hill Promenade, the stylish eatery features a rooftop patio and a Cali-Italian menu with antipasti, salads, pastas and artisanal pizzas; plus a retail wine shop. L (Tu-Su), D (nightly). 2730 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.704.4500. $$$ Map X22 CUCINA URBANA Crowded, chic hotspot features house-made pastas, pizzas, farm-to-table dishes, houseinfused cocktails and wine shop. L (Tu-F), D (nightly). 505 Laurel St., Bankers Hill, 619.239.2222. $$$ Map O16 DAVANTI ENOTECA Lively hotspot serves rustic Italian shareable plates like mascarpone polenta, plus pasta, pizza and salumi. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1655 India St., Little Italy, 619.237.9606, Map P15; 12955 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.519.5060. $$$ Map X22 IL FORNAIO Authentic Italian recipes including excellent pasta, pizza and regional specialties paired with handmade breads. 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. $$$ Map L10 ISOLA PIZZA BAR Casually elegant restaurant and bar featuring a romantic back patio, sidewalk patio and hand-tossed pizzas baked in a stone woodburning oven; plus pastas, antipasti and boutique wines. L, D (Tu-Su). 1526 India St., Little Italy, 619.255.4230, Map P15; 7734 Girard Ave., La Jolla, 858.412.5566. $$$ Map W19 JACK & GIULIO’S Known for its scampi, spaghetti and meatballs, and other traditional dishes, this Old Town Italian spot is a locals’ 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 and romantic courtyard, white-on-white decor
PYOP [PICK YOUR OWN POKE], EEL BOWL, SCALLOP DYNAMITE, FRESH CRACKED YOUNG COCONUT AND MORE
619-994-1990 OPEN MON-FRI 10AM-9PM, SUN 10AM-8PM, AT THE HEADQUARTERS AT SEAPORT, 789 W HARBOR DR STE 113, SAN DIEGO, CA 92101
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DINING 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. L, D (daily); Br (Sa–Su). 2182 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, 858.454.1589. $$$ Map V20 TRATTORIA FANTASTICA Popular eatery in the heart of Little Italy, serving Sicilian fare in a casual setting, with a charming patio in the back. Specialties include woodfired pizza and red wine osso bucco. B, L, D (daily). 1735 India St., Little Italy, 619.234.1735. $$ Map P15 TRATTORIA I TRULLI Superb pasta and sauces in a rustic setting featuring more than 100 wines. The creme brulee shouldn’t be missed. L, D (daily). 830 S. Coast Hwy. 101, #100, Encinitas, 760.943.6800. $$ Map V22 VIGILUCCI’S CUCINA ITALIANA Bustling Italian bistro nestled in the heart of Carlsbad Village serves everything from pasta to veal to seafood; plus an outdoor patio. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 2943 State St., Carlsbad, 760.434.2500. $$$ Map T22 VIGILUCCI’S GOURMET MARKET & CATERING One part cafe and one part gourmet Italian market, this charming nook offers boutique wines, salami, cheeses, customized antipasti trays, hot and cold panini, homemade lasagna and daily lunch specials. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. 2943 State St. #102, Carlsbad, 760.720.0188. $$ Map T22 VIGILUCCI’S TRATTORIA ITALIANA This quaint Italian eatery is known for its homemade pasta dishes, prime steaks, fresh seafood and pizza—featuring an authentic Florentine wood-burning brick oven. L, D (daily). 530 N. Coast Hwy. 101, Leucadia, 760.634.2365. $$$ Map V2 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. $$$$ Map U22
JAPANESE/PACIFIC RIM AZUKI SUSHI Seemingly a hole in the wall from the street view, but inside lies a charming eatery and sushi bar with an airy back patio. Excellent, expertly prepared sushi and specialty rolls. L (M-F), D (nightly). 2321 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.238.4760. $$$ Map O16 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. $$$ Map K9 BLUE OCEAN ROBATA & SUSHI BAR High-style design meets mod Japanese cuisine. Yakitori-skewered proteins & veggies are charcoal-fired on a robata grill; plus sushi and Japanese whiskey. L (M-Sa), D (nightly). 2958 Madison St., Carlsbad, 760.434.4959. $$$ Map T22 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. $$ Map M16 CAFE JAPENGO Bustling atmosphere attracts a hip after-work crowd to this upscale spot specializing in artistic
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DINING sushi and cocktails. L (M–F), D (nightly). 8960 University Center Lane, La Jolla/Golden Triangle, 858.450.3355. $$$ Map T21 CANNONBALL San Diego’s largest rooftop restaurant showcases Pacific Rim-inspired cuisine overlooking the ocean. Enjoy plates such as beef tongue, salmon tataki and lemongrass chicken; plus sushi. To drink: Japanese beer, sake and beach cocktails. L, D (daily). 3105 Ocean Front Walk, Mission Beach, 858.228.9304. $$ Map I8
Bold, Exotic Flavors and 25% Off
HARNEY SUSHI Find award-winning sushi and specialty rolls with a molecular gastronomy twist at this groovy local mini-chain, where live DJs spin nightly. L (M-F), D (nightly). 3964 Harney St., Old Town, 619.295.3272, Map J10; 301 Mission Ave., Oceanside, 760.967.1820. $$ Map S22 HI POKE The Headquarters at Seaport’s cheerful quickserve eatery offers custom poke bowls, specialty seafood bowls and sushi burritos—accompanied by homemade sauces. L, D (daily). 789 W. Harbor Drive, Suite 113, Embarcadero, 619.994.1990. $ Map Q15 NOBU The hotspot at Hard Rock Hotel by the renowned Nobu Matsuhisa serves authentic sushi, the chef’s famous jalapeño-yellowtail sashimi and excellent miso black cod. D (nightly). 207 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.814.4124. $$$$ Map Q16 ROY’S High-end chain serves chef Roy Yamaguchi’s Hawaiian-fusion fare—including steak, seafood and sushi—in a contemporary setting; plus, an exceptional wine list and service. L, D (daily). 8670 Genesee Ave., La Jolla, 858.455.1616, Map T21; Marriott Hotel, 333 W. Harbor Drive, Marina District, 619.239.7697. $$$ Map Q15 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. $$$ Map P16
Grilled Filet Mignon & Teppanyaki Shrimp
Join us for lunch, brunch or dinner nightly. 25% OFF THE ENTIRE GUEST CHECK. UP TO 6 PERSONS. CHOICE OF MENU. FOOD ONLY. Holidays Excluded. RoysRestaurant.com.
ZENBU Innovative sushi rolls and sashimi crafted from 2017-Q2-SANDIEGO_25%off_WHERE_AD_4.625x4.875_v4.indd 1 line-caught fish brought in by the owner’s personal fleet of fishing boats. D (nightly). 2003 San Elijo Ave., Cardiff-bythe-Sea, 760.633.2223. $$$ Map W22
Roy’s San Diego 333 West Harbor Drive San Diego, CA 92101 TEL (619) 239-7697 Roy’s La Jolla 8670 Genesee Avenue San Diego, CA 92122 TEL (858) 455-1616
4/26/17 1:20 PM
MEXICAN/SOUTHWESTERN EL AGAVE Upscale Mexico City-style cuisine with exotic dishes like cuitlacoche tlacoyo on handmade blue corn tortillas, plus 2,000 tequilas available to sample and a cozy ambiance. L, D (daily). 2304 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.220.0692. $$$ Map M14 BARRIO STAR Trendy eatery serves up healthful Latin American-influenced dishes, including tacos, bowls, tortilla soup and chipotle chicken wings. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 2706 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.501.7827. $$ 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. $$ Map Q16 CAFE COYOTE South-of-the-border classics in a lively setting in the center of Old Town. Choose from more than 100 tequilas in your margarita to wash down the enchiladas suizas and addictive tortilla chips. B, L, D (daily). 2461 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.291.4695. $$ 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. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Su). 1201 First St., #115, Coronado, 619.435.4900. $$$ Map L10 CASA GUADALAJARA Bazaar del Mundo’s awardwinning Mexican restaurant and cantina features a colorful outdoor patio, live mariachi music and some of the best enchiladas and flautas in town. L, D (daily). 4105 Taylor St., Old Town, 619.295.5111. $$ Map M13
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DINING COASTERRA The stars are its massive waterfront dining deck and regional Mexican cuisine. Bar offers more than 100 tequilas and a dozen mezcal infusions. L, D (daily). 880 Harbor Island Drive, Harbor Island, 619.814.1300. $$$ Map J10 EN FUEGO Lively Mexican restaurant and bar with traditional dishes such as empanadas, tamales and seafood; plus mojitos and margaritas. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1342 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.6551. $$ Map X22 MIGUEL’S COCINA This family-owned restaurant chain dates back to 1982. Each location has its own breezy vibe, but all serve Miguel’s seriously addictive queso dip. L, D (daily); Br (Su, also Sa in Coronado). 2912 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.224.2401, Map K9; 1351 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.4237, Map L10; 2444 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.298.9840. $$ Map N13
Lotus Thai
welcomes discerning diners with an unpretentious vibe and sophisticated, authentic exotic Thai cuisine. Emerge award winning recipes from Chiang Mai, Bangkok and Northern Thailand.
OLD TOWN MEXICAN CAFE This Old Town staple is famous for its handmade tortillas, which you can see being made fresh daily through the restaurant’s front window. A festive atmosphere and traditional Mexican dishes await inside. B, L, D (daily). 2489 San Diego Ave., Old Town, 619.297.4330. $ Map N13
Happy Hour 7 days a week with extensive beer, wine, SOJU cocktails and Sake selections. Established and recognized as San Diego’s Best Thai restaurant for several years. RESERVE NOW
LOTUSTHAISD.COM 2 prime locations
DOWNTOWN 906 Market St. 92101 HILLCREST 3761 6th Ave. 92103
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PUEBLO Just two blocks from the ocean, this upscale restaurant and bar features a rooftop deck, modern Mexican cuisine focusing on Baja-style dishes and seafood, cocktails and wine. Menu changes daily to include only the freshest catches and seasonal, local produce. Br (Sa-Su), D (nightly). 877 Hornblend St., Pacific Beach, 858.412.3312. $$$ Map H8 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. $$ Map W19
1/26/17 11:53 AM
RED O RESTAURANT The latest culinary foray by celeb chef Rick Bayless, this new upscale Mexican bistro and tequila lounge features gourmet, modern twists on traditional Cali-Mex fare, plus a generous patio and extensive spirits list. D (nightly). 4340 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla, 858.291.8360. $$$ Map T21 SALUD! Cult-followed casual eatery offers elevated tacos, craft beer, a salsa bar, and churros with ice cream for dessert. Weekly specials include ceviche tostadas on Wednesdays and homemade empanadas on Thursdays. B, L (Tu-Su); D (Tu-Sa). 2196 Logan Ave., Barrio Logan, 619.255.3856. $$ Map R17
SEAFOOD BLUE POINT COASTAL CUISINE Enjoy Cali-style seafood and fresh oysters, as well as blue crab and white truffle mac ‘n’ cheese. Hip martini bar with plenty of specialty cocktails and decadent desserts, too. D (nightly). 565 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.6623. $$$$ Map Q16 BLUEWATER BOATHOUSE SEAFOOD GRILL Located right over the water in the historical former boathouse of the Hotel del Coronado, this classic fish house features fresh, sustainable seafood, house-made chowders and an oyster bar. L, D (daily). 1701 Strand Way, Coronado, 619.435.0155, Map L10; 417 Carlsbad Village Drive, Carlsbad, 760.730.3474. $$ Map T22 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. $$ Map L10 DUKE’S LA JOLLA The Hawaii-based chain is known for its seasonal, fresh fish and seafood, choice
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DINING steaks, tropical cocktails and vibrant atmosphere. Save room for Kimo’s Hula Pie. B, L, D (daily). 1216 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.5888. $$$ Map W19 EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD Find classics like shrimp cocktail, crab cakes and lobster bisque, plus 28-day-aged prime steaks. La Jolla locale boasts views of the cove, while downtown flagship has live jazz nightly. To drink: an expansive wine list and old-fashioned martinis. D (nightly). 1270 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.459.5500, Map W19; 789 W. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.615.0281. $$$$ Map Q15 FISH 101 Casual eatery serves sustainable, seasonal catches and shellfish. Mains range from grilled and fried fish plates to sandwiches to an Angus burger. Plus salads, oysters and soft-serve ice cream. L, D (TuSu). 1468 N. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760.943.6221. $$ Map V22 THE FISH MARKET/TOP OF THE MARKET Casual dining includes seafood, sushi, an oyster bar and bay views at the downtown location. Upstairs: fine dining and 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. $$ Map W22 HUMPHREYS RESTAURANT Yacht-club views with bayside seafood by chef Nicolas Bour, such as sauteed Georges bank scallops and pepper-crusted king salmon. Sunday brunch is spectacular, with carving stations and free-flowing bubbly. B, L, D (daily); Br (Su). 2241 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.224.3577. $$$ 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 happenin’ bar and restaurant. Raw bar stays open till midnight (till 2 a.m. F-Sa). L, D (daily). 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 OSETRA Indulge in caviar, vodka and oysters at this progressive eatery, whose interior is defined by a three-story wine tower. Prime-aged meats are also on the menu. D (nightly). 904 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.239.1800. $$$ Map Q16 PACIFIC COAST GRILL Plopped literally right on the beach, Pacific Coast Grill epitomizes casual-chic coastal dining. Locals love the lobster tacos and fresh seafood entrees, and the view is the stuff of California dreams. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 2526 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Cardiff-by-theSea, 760.479.0721. $$$ Map V22 PACIFICA DEL MAR Upscale, ocean-view, Asian fusion spot attracts a power crowd with mustard catfish and sugar-spiced salmon. Visit the vodka bar with more than 160 selections. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.0476. $$$ Map X22 PEOHE’S Tropical decor with spectacular water views looking back at the San Diego skyline; plus
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DINING
EVERY D IS H S E R V E D WITH A
Pacific Rim plates like crispy wok-fried whole bass and fire shrimp. And try the surf ‘n’ turf roll with lobster and seared filet mignon L, D (daily); Br (Su). 1201 First St., Coronado, 619.437.4474. $$$ Map K10
v ie w
POSEIDON RESTAURANT Its beachfront deck offers unrivaled views. Dinner entrees such as lemon peppercrusted diver scallops, blackened Pacific swordfish and wasabi-sesame-crusted yellowfin tuna make up the contemporary seafood-focused menu. L (M-F), D (nightly), Br (Sa-Su). 1670 Coast Blvd., Del Mar, 858.755.9345. $$$ Map X22 SALLY’S This marina-facing venue at the Manchester Grand Hyatt is one of San Diego’s best-kept secrets. The seafood-heavy menu includes fresh creations such as diver scallops and crab cakes with tomato relish and avocado aioli. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 1 Market Place, Embar cadero, 619.358.6740. $$$ Map Q1
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
-
TURF TUESDAY
BARRELED ON WEDNESDAY
TACO THURSDAY
Pau Hana Monday - Friday in the Barefoot Bar® Visit our website for more information on food and beverage specials and our live entertainment schedule.
1216 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037
DUKESLAJOLLA.COM | 858.454.5888
“The Pinnacle of Pancakes” -San Diego Magazine
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. $$$ Map Q16 GREYSTONE, THE STEAKHOUSE Prime steaks, seafood and pastas in a great downtown location. Beefy menu includes filet mignon potstickers, Kobe carpaccio and more. D (nightly). 658 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.232.0225. $$$ Map Q16
BREAKFAST | LUNCH | DINNER | PAU HANA
DLJ_View w/strip_Where 101717.indd 1
FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR Upscale steakhouse with prime steaks, seafood, hearty side dishes, classic desserts and an acclaimed wine list. 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. $$$$ Map Q16
MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE USDA prime-aged beef, seafood, an excellent wine list, cocktails, decadent desserts, crisp white linens and great service at the edge of the historical Gaslamp Quarter. D (nightly). 285 J St., downtown, 619.696.3369. $$$$ Map Q16 STAKE CHOPHOUSE & BAR Modern steakhouse with
10/17/17 12:05 PM a luxe vibe features a wide variety of steaks—including rare
cuts such as wagyu and Kobe—as well as seafood; plus a 2,000-bottle glass wine cellar. D (nightly). 1309 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.522.0077. $$$ Map L10
VIGILUCCI’S SEAFOOD & STEAKHOUSE Italianinfluenced chophouse with beach views features steaks, chicken, veal, fresh catches, salads and fresh pastas such as the classic capellini checca. L, D (daily); Br (Su). 3878 Carlsbad Blvd., Carlsbad, 760.434.2580. $$$ Map T22
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 6:30 AM – 2:30 PM 520 Front Street Downtown San Diego (just South of Market) 619-231-7777
909 Prospect Street La Jolla (between Girard and Fay) 858-459-8800
richardwalkers.com
THAI AMARIN THAI Traditional Thai fare takes a unique twist inside this elegant, low-key dining room. Specialties include Black Magic Noodles, lemongrass chicken and the Three Musketeers—grilled pork shanks and roasted garlic with Som Tum and sticky rice. L, D (daily). 3843 Richmond St., Hillcrest, 619.296.6056. $$ Map N16
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DINING LOTUS THAI Elegant bamboo decor 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. $$ Map Q17 PLUMERIA VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT This casual Thai eatery features fabulous vegetarian options, including mock chicken and marinated tofu satay skewers. Dine under sparkling chandeliers surrounded by subtle floral decor. L, D (daily). 4661 Park Blvd., University Heights, 619.269.9989. $$ Map M18 SAFFRON San Diego’s first authentic Thai restaurant is known for its healthy saffron-marinated rotisserie chicken, Thai noodles, salads and fragrant soups. Quickservice 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 food with specialties like Panang curry duck, crispy chicken with red curry, and spicy chili halibut. L (M–Sa), D (nightly). 7734 Girard Ave., La Jolla, 858.456.0466. $$ Map W19 TASTE OF THAI Delicious Thai food in a charming urban space with a sidewalk patio. Try the Tom Yum soup and yellow curry with spicy fried rice, followed by the fried bananas with coconut ice for dessert. L, D (daily). 527 University Ave., Hillcrest, 619.291.7525. $$ Map N16
WINE BARS COUNTERPOINT Friendly neighborhood wine bar serves artisanal cheeses, salads, a burger, seasonal entrees, 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. $$ Map Q18
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M WINEHOUSE Enjoy international wines, beers, sake and bubbly at this quaint wine bar in the heart of Little Italy. Plus happy hour specials (M-F), bottomless mimosas (noon-2 p.m. Sa and Su), “Sake Sundays” and other specials. Space also may be rented for private events. Open daily. 1918 India St., Little Italy, 619.546.4226. $$ Map P15 WE OLIVE Olive oil tasting room also includes coastal-view 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. $$ Map W19 WINE STEALS Vino, cheeses, pizzas and charcuterie; plus a retail wine shop with 300 bottles from California and across the globe. Relaxed neighborhood vibe at all three locations. Open daily. 1953 San Elijo Ave., Cardiffby-the-Sea, 760.230.2657, Map W22; 1243 University Ave., Hillcrest, 619.295.1188. $$ Map N17 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. Excellent selection of boutique wines. D (Th-Sa). 3731-A India St., Mission Hills, 619.295.3939. $$ Map N14
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RESTAURANTS CITY INDEX OUR SUPERGUIDE BY AREA, WITH CROSS REFERENCE TO LISTINGS BY CUISINE
GASLAMP QUARTER BARLEYMASH (American)..................................................................... 32 BLUE POINT (Seafood)............................................................................ 41 BRIAN’S 24 (Breakfast)............................................................................ 34 CAFE SEVILLA (International)............................................................... 36 DONOVAN’S (Steak)............................................................................... 43 FLEMING’S (Steak).................................................................................... 43 FOGO DE CHÃO (Steak)...................................................................... 43 GARAGE KITCHEN + BAR (American)......................................... 32 GREYSTONE (Steak)................................................................................ 43 JSIX (California Cuisine)............................................................................... 34 MCCORMICK & SCHMICK’S (Seafood) ...................................... 42 NOBU (Japanese)......................................................................................... 40 THE OCEANAIRE (Seafood)................................................................. 42 OSETRA (Seafood)...................................................................................... 42 OSTERIA PANEVINO (Italian)............................................................ 39 REI DO GADO (International)............................................................... 37 SEARSUCKER (American)....................................................................... 33 UNION KITCHEN & TAP (American).............................................. 34
DOWNTOWN/EAST VILLAGE/EMBARCADERO THE BLIND BURRO (Mexican/Southwestern) . .............................. 40 CAFE 222 (Breakfast)................................................................................ 34 CAFE CHLOE (French)............................................................................. 36 CARNITAS’ SNACK SHACK (California Cuisine)......................... 34 COUNTERPOINT (Wine Bars).............................................................. 44 COWBOY STAR (Steak)......................................................................... 43 EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD (Seafood)...................................... 42 THE FISH MARKET (Seafood) ............................................................ 42 GRANT GRILL (California Cuisine)........................................................ 34 HALF DOOR BREWING CO. (American)..................................... 32 HI POKE (Japanese/Pacific Rim).............................................................. 40 HODAD’S (American)................................................................................ 32 HORNBLOWER CRUISES (American)............................................ 33 LOTUS THAI (Thai)................................................................................... 44 THE MISSION (Breakfast)....................................................................... 34 MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE (Steak)................................... 43 NEIGHBORHOOD (American)............................................................ 33 PUESTO (Mexican/Southwestern).......................................................... 41 RICHARD WALKER’S PANCAKE HOUSE (Breakfast)......... 34 ROY’S (Japanese/Pacific Rim)................................................................... 40 SALLY’S (Seafood)....................................................................................... 43 SALUD! (Mexican)....................................................................................... 41 SEASONS 52 (California Cuisine).......................................................... 35 TAPAS & BEERS (International)............................................................ 37 TOP OF THE MARKET (Seafood)..................................................... 42
LITTLE ITALY BARBUSA (Italian)...................................................................................... 37 BENCOTTO (Italian)................................................................................. 37 BURGER LOUNGE (California Cuisine).............................................. 34 CIVICO 1845 (Italian).............................................................................. 38 CRAFT & COMMERCE (American).................................................. 32 THE CRACK SHACK (California Cuisine).......................................... 34 DAVANTI ENOTECA (Italian)............................................................. 38 HERB & WOOD (American).................................................................. 32 IRONSIDE FISH & OYSTER (Seafood)........................................... 42 INDIGO GRILL (International)............................................................... 37 ISOLA PIZZA BAR (Italian)................................................................... 38 JUNIPER & IVY (California Cuisine)..................................................... 34 KETTNER EXCHANGE (American).................................................. 33 M WINEHOUSE (Wine Bar) ................................................................. 44 MONELLO (Italian) ................................................................................... 38 PACIFIC STANDARD (American)....................................................... 33 PREPKITCHEN (California Cuisine)....................................................... 35 QUEENSTOWN PUBLIC HOUSE (International)...................... 37 SHINO SUSHI + KAPPO (Japanese)............................................... 40 TRATTORIA FANTASTICA (Italian)................................................. 39 WINE VAULT & BISTRO (Wine Bars)............................................... 44
LA JOLLA BROCKTON VILLA (American)........................................................... 32 BURGER LOUNGE (California Cuisine).............................................. 34 CAFE JAPENGO (Japanese)................................................................. 39 CAROLINE’S SEASIDE CAFE (American) ................................... 32 CATANIA COASTAL ITALIAN (Italian).......................................... 38 THE COTTAGE (Breakfast).................................................................... 34 CUSP (California Cuisine) ........................................................................... 34 DONOVAN’S (Steak)............................................................................... 43
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DUKE’S LA JOLLA (Seafood).............................................................. 41 EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD (Seafood)...................................... 42 FLEMING’S (Steak).................................................................................... 43 GEORGE’S AT THE COVE (California Cuisine)............................ 34 THE HAKE (International)........................................................................ 36 HERRINGBONE (American).................................................................. 32 ISOLA PIZZA BAR (Italian)................................................................... 38 MARINE ROOM (California Cuisine)................................................... 35 THE MED (American)................................................................................ 33 MUSEUM CAFE (American).................................................................. 33 NINE-TEN (California Cuisine)................................................................. 35 PIATTI (Italian)............................................................................................... 39 PUESTO (Mexican/Southwestern).......................................................... 41 RED O RESTAURANT (Mexican/Southwestern)............................ 41 RICHARD WALKER’S PANCAKE HOUSE (Breakfast)......... 34 ROY’S (Japanese/Pacific Rim)................................................................... 40 SEASONS 52 (California Cuisine).......................................................... 35 SNOOZE (Breakfast).................................................................................. 34 SPICE & RICE (Thai)................................................................................. 44 WHISKNLADLE (California Cuisine)..................................................... 35 WE OLIVE (Wine Bars).............................................................................. 44
MISSION BAY/BEACHES BACKYARD KITCHEN & TAP (American).................................... 32 BO-BEAU (French)...................................................................................... 36 CAFFE BELLA ITALIA (Italian)............................................................ 38 CANNONBALL (Japanese/Pacific Rim)............................................... 40 COSTA BRAVA (International)............................................................... 36 DRAFT (American)....................................................................................... 32 THE FRENCH GOURMET (French)................................................. 36 HODAD’S (American)................................................................................ 32 ISABEL’S CANTINA (Breakfast)........................................................... 34 JRDN (California Cuisine)............................................................................ 34 MISS B’S COCONUT CLUB (International).................................. 37 THE MISSION (Breakfast)....................................................................... 34 PACIFIC BEACH ALE HOUSE (California Cuisine)..................... 35 THE PATIO ON LAMONT (California Cuisine).............................. 35 PUEBLO (Mexican)..................................................................................... 41
HARBOR /SHELTER/POINT LOMA BALI HAI (Japanese/Pacific Rim)............................................................. 39 BREAKFAST REPUBLIC (Breakfast)................................................. 34 THE BRIGANTINE (Seafood)................................................................ 41 COASTERRA (Mexican)........................................................................... 41 EAT AT THE PEARL (California Cuisine)............................................ 34 FIRESIDE BY THE PATIO (California Cuisine)................................ 34 HUMPHREYS RESTAURANT (Seafood)........................................ 42 ISLAND PRIME (Seafood)....................................................................... 42 JIMMY’S TAVERN (American)............................................................. 33 MIGUEL’S COCINA (Mexican/Southwestern).................................. 41 OLD VENICE (Italian)............................................................................... 38 SLATER’S 50/50 (American) ................................................................ 33
CORONADO 1500 OCEAN (California Cuisine)......................................................... 34 BLUEWATER BOATHOUSE (Seafood)........................................... 41 BURGER LOUNGE (California Cuisine).............................................. 34 THE BRIGANTINE (Seafood)................................................................ 41 CANDELAS (Mexican/Southwestern)................................................... 40 IL FORNAIO (Italian)................................................................................ 38 LEROY’S KITCHEN (California Cuisine)............................................. 34 MIGUEL’S COCINA (Mexican/Southwestern).................................. 41 STAKE CHOPHOUSE (Steak)............................................................. 43
DEL MAR/RANCHO SANTA FE ADDISON (French)..................................................................................... 36 ARTERRA (California Cuisine).................................................................. 34 THE BRIGANTINE (Seafood)................................................................ 41 BULLY’S (California Cuisine)...................................................................... 34 CUCINA ENOTECA (Italian)................................................................ 38 DAVANTI ENOTECA (Italian)............................................................. 38 EN FUEGO (Mexican/Southwestern).................................................... 41 IL FORNAIO (Italian)................................................................................ 38 KITCHEN 1540 (California Cuisine)...................................................... 34 MARKET (California Cuisine).................................................................... 35 MILLE FLEURS (French).......................................................................... 36 PACIFICA DEL MAR (Seafood)........................................................... 42 POSEIDON (Seafood)............................................................................... 43 SAMMY’S WOODFIRED PIZZA (California Cuisine)................ 35 SEARSUCKER (American)....................................................................... 33 SNOOZE (Breakfast).................................................................................. 34
NORTH COASTAL BEACH GRASS CAFE (Breakfast)..................................................... 34 BLUE OCEAN ROBATA & SUSHI BAR (Japanese)................ 39 BLUEWATER BOATHOUSE (Seafood)........................................... 41 BREAKFAST REPUBLIC (Breakfast)................................................. 34 CAMPFIRE (American).............................................................................. 32 CHART HOUSE (American)................................................................... 32 CRAFTSMAN TAVERN (American)................................................... 32 DECOY DOCKSIDE DINING (American)..................................... 32 FISH 101 (Seafood)..................................................................................... 42 THE FISH MARKET (Seafood)............................................................. 42 THE FLYING PIG (California Cuisine).................................................. 34 GREEN DRAGON TAVERN (American)........................................ 32 HARNEY SUSHI (Japanese)................................................................... 40 PACIFIC COAST GRILL (Seafood)..................................................... 42 PAMPLEMOUSSE GRILLE (French)................................................. 36 Q’ERO RESTAURANT (International)............................................... 37 SOLACE (American)................................................................................... 34 TRATTORIA I TRULLI (Italian)............................................................. 39 UNION KITCHEN & TAP (American).............................................. 34 VIGILUCCI’S SEAFOOD & STEAKHOUSE (Steak).............. 43 VIGILUCCI’S CUCINA ITALIANA (Italian).................................. 39 VIGILUCCI’S GOURMET MARKET & CATERING (Italian).. 39 VIGILUCCI’S TRATTORIA ITALIANA (Italian)........................... 39 VIVACE (Italian)........................................................................................... 39 WINE STEALS (Wine Bars)..................................................................... 44 ZENBU (Japanese)....................................................................................... 40
UPTOWN ALEXANDER’S (Italian) ......................................................................... 37 AMARIN THAI (Thai)............................................................................... 43 ARRIVEDERCI (Italian)............................................................................ 37 AZUKI SUSHI (Japanese) . ...................................................................... 39 BANKERS HILL (American).................................................................... 32 BLEU BOHEME (French) ....................................................................... 36 BO-BEAU (French)...................................................................................... 36 LA BONNE TABLE (French)................................................................. 36 BREAKFAST REPUBLIC (Breakfast)................................................. 34 THE BREW PROJECT (American)..................................................... 32 BROOKLYN GIRL (American)............................................................... 32 BUONA FORCHETTA (Italian)........................................................... 38 CARNITAS’ SNACK SHACK (California Cuisine)......................... 34 CUCINA URBANA (Italian).................................................................. 38 GREAT MAPLE (California Cuisine)...................................................... 34 HASH HOUSE A GO GO (Breakfast)............................................. 34 LOTUS THAI (Thai)................................................................................... 44 MADISON (California Cuisine)................................................................ 34 THE MISSION (Breakfast)....................................................................... 34 MISTER A’S (American)............................................................................ 33 ONE DOOR NORTH (American)....................................................... 33 PARC BISTRO-BRASSERIE (French)................................................ 36 PLUMERIA (Thai)....................................................................................... 44 THE PATIO ON GOLDFINCH (California Cuisine)...................... 35 THE PRADO (International).................................................................... 37 THE RED DOOR (American)................................................................. 33 SAFFRON (Thai)......................................................................................... 44 THE SMOKING GOAT (French) . ...................................................... 36 SNOOZE (Breakfast).................................................................................. 34 SOLTAN BANOO (International) ........................................................ 37 STARLITE (California Cuisine) .................................................................. 35 TASTE OF THAI (Thai)............................................................................ 44 URBAN SOLACE (American)................................................................ 34 WAYPOINT PUBLIC (California Cuisine)........................................... 35 WOW WOW WAFFLE (Breakfast).................................................... 34 WINE STEALS (Wine Bars)..................................................................... 44
OLD TOWN EL AGAVE (Mexican/Southwestern)...................................................... 40 BERTA’S LATIN AMERICAN (International).................................. 36 CAFE COYOTE (Mexican/Southwestern).......................................... 40 CASA GUADALAJARA (Mexican/Southwestern)......................... 40 HARNEY SUSHI (Japanese)................................................................... 40 JACK & GIULIO’S (Italian).................................................................... 38 MIGUEL’S COCINA (Mexican)............................................................. 41 OLD TOWN MEXICAN CAFE (Mexican)..................................... 41
MISSION VALLEY/KEARNY MESA BLUE SMOKE SUSHI LOUNGE (Japanese)................................ 39 SAMMY’S WOODFIRED PIZZA (California Cuisine)................ 35 STACKED (American)................................................................................ 34
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SDDINING WE OLIVE AND WINE BAR Pretty much everything about We Olive is good enough to eat. An olive oil tasting room and much more, the epicurean specialty market overlooking La Jolla Cove features a coastal-view wine bar with a well-curated selection of California wines and artisanal dishes. Make a meal out of the Caprese Panini with roasted tomato, basil pesto and fresh mozzarella; the cheese and charcuterie plate featuring We Olive mustard; and the kale 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. Holiday parties and private events available. L, D (daily). 1158 Prospect St., La Jolla 858.551.8250 • weolive.com/la-jolla
SAMMY’S WOODFIRED PIZZA AND GRILL Celebrating 25 years in business, Sammy’s is known for its woodfired pizzas and healthy global cuisine with vegetarian and glutenfree options. Pies come in flavorful renditions such as Thai chicken, and organic arugula and pear with prosciutto and Gorgonzola. Or choose a crispy, thin-crust pizza topped with sun-dried tomatoes, goat cheese and pine nuts. The menu also features an array of salads such as the red quinoa and organic kale; plus tapas, wraps, pasta dishes and specialties such as oak-roasted salmon filet. Beer and wine to drink, refined contemporary décor, and a relaxed ambiance complete the Sammy’s experience. See website for all San Diego locations. L, D (daily). 12925 El Camino Real., Del Mar • 858.259.6600 1620 Camino de la Reina, Mission Valley • 919.298.8222 sammyspizza.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 as well as a la carte options. 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-Sat).
960 Turquoise St., San Diego 858.488.1725 • thefrenchgourmet.com
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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SDDINING PUEBLO Nestled just one block from the beach is this stunning, chef-driven restaurant and bar which was voted “Best New Restaurant” and “Best Mexican Restaurant” in 2017 by Beach and Bay Press. Pueblo marries the freshest seafood and seasonal, regional produce with traditional preparations and Mexican spices to create its’ coastal Baja cuisine. Expect sea fare such as aguachile shrimp, a chef’s nightly filet of fish and a daily whole fish preparation. Carnivores will love plates such as the savory rabbit tostada and duck confit tacos. Enjoy nightly happy hour with a selection of specialty margaritas and other craft libations made from house-infused liquors and freshpressed juices; plus local and Baja beers and wines. L, D (daily)
877 Hornblend St., Pacific Beach 858.412.3312 • pueblopb.com
PARC BISTRO-BRASSERIE Discover exceptional, refined French cuisine inside this elegant neighborhood bistro. Blending Old World charm with contemporary touches, Parc features a posh interior; a welcoming and unpretentious ambiance; a charming bar and lounge serving fabulous handcrafted cocktails, wine and beer; and a covered sidewalk patio. Dine on impeccably crafted French specialties such as french onion soup, escargot, lobster risotto, short rib bourguignon, Branzino, and sesame crusted Ahi Tuna; as well as seafood towers, charcuterie and cheese boards and much more. Weekend brunch includes delights such as the Croque Monsier, Nutella crepes and the signature Parc omelette. Other highlights include happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m. daily, and private dining rooms accommodating up to 180 guests. L, D (daily); Br (Sa-Su). 2760 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill 619.795.1501 • parcbb.com
TAPAS & BEERS This casual-cool gastropub lives up to its name—offering a variety of savory tapas, sandwiches, salads, flatbreads and entrees alongside local craft beers and wines. Step inside an inviting bi-level space boasting an urban-industrial design—complete with soaring ceilings, reclaimed wood paneling, high-top tables, flat-screen televisions and a sleek bar. Menu favorites include the paella with saffron rice, chicken, chorizo and salmon; the cured meat platter with prosciutto, salami, chorizo and Creminelli ham; and the sausage sampler. The California burger with brie, bacon, avocado and caramelized onion is also a standout. Wash it all down with one of 20 San Diego beers on tap, or try the one-of-a-kind frozen beer tower. D (M-Sa); L (daily); Br (Sa-Su).
926 Broadway Circle, downtown 619.564.7255 • tapasbeers.com
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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/ ENTERTAINMENT FESTIVALS + SPECIAL EVENTS WHALE WATCHING SEASON Through April. Each year beginning in December, more than 20,000 gray whales migrate from Alaska to Baja California, where the females give birth to their calves, before returning north in the spring. Take in the spectacle via a whale watching tour along San Diego’s 70 miles of coastline directly in the migration path; Hornblower Cruises offers one of the city’s more popular excursions. hornblower.com. SKATING BY THE SEA Through Jan. 1. See Hotel del Coronado’s Windsor Lawn transform into an outdoor ice skating rink that overlooks the beach and Pacific Ocean. Hotel del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado, hoteldel.com/skating. Map L10 RADY CHILDREN’S ICE RINK Through Jan. 7. Celebrate the holiday season by lacing up your skates and gliding away at this outdoor ice rink located in the historical NTC at Liberty Station. 2640 Historic Decatur Road, Point Loma, 619.222.1970, fantasyonicesd.com. Map J9
Dramatic Flair San Diego Opera presents its Detour Series, showcasing the beauty of opera through unique outlets. Maria de Buenos Aires (pictured)—Jan. 26-28 on the Lyceum Stage at Horton Plaza—is a 90-minute tango into sultry Argentina. Conceived by composer Astor Piazzolla and librettist Horacio Ferrer, the production profiles young Maria as she follows her passion and need for freedom into the slums of Buenos Aires. For a dose of traditional opera, Giacomo Puccini’s Turandot runs Feb. 24, 27 and March 2, 4 at the Civic Theatre. Set in China, we follow Prince Calaf, who becomes smitten with the formidable Princess Turandot and must solve three riddles to obtain permission to marry her. Facing death as punishment for getting any of them wrong, the prince solves all three, yet Turandot still refuses him. sdopera.org
BALBOA PARK DECEMBER NIGHTS Dec. 1-2. Experience this 40th annual two-day holiday blowout that attracts more than 300,000 visitors to the park, which features carolers, live music, holiday light displays and more festivities. Plus, many museums open their doors free of charge from 5-9 p.m. Balboa Park, balboapark.org/decembernights. Map O17 CORONADO HOLIDAY PARADE AND OPEN HOUSE Dec. 1, 6 p.m. Be a part of the annual festivities, with a nighttime parade along Orange Avenue, the lighting of a 50-foot Christmas tree and a holiday concert. Coronado, coronadochamber.com. Map L10 HOLIDAY IN THE PARK & LAS POSADAS Dec. 2-17. See Old Town decked out for the holidays with extended evening shopping hours and strolling carolers. On Dec. 9 at 5 p.m., join a candlelight procession and celebrate Las Posadas—a centuries-old tradition in which actors re-enact the biblical journey of Mary and Joseph through the ancient town of Bethlehem. Old Town State Historic Park, San Diego Avenue and Twiggs Street, oldtownsandiego.org. Map M13 LA JOLLA CHRISTMAS PARADE AND HOLIDAY FESTIVAL Dec. 3, 1:30 p.m. Enjoy the holidays in La Jolla glory, with vintage automobiles, equestrian units, floats, marching bands and a Santa Claus appearance. Girard Avenue in La Jolla. ljparade.com. Map W19 THE NUTCRACKER Dec. 8-24 (City Ballet) and Dec. 9-23 (California Ballet). Channel your inner Sugar Plum Fairy at two stagings of the timeless holiday classic presented by the City Ballet of San Diego at the historical Spreckels Theatre, and by the California Ballet at the Civic Theatre. Spreckels Theatre, 121 Broadway, downtown, 619.235.9500, Map Q16; Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, 619.570.1100. Map Q16 MISSION BAY CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE OF LIGHTS Dec. 9. In this celebrated annual San Diego tradition, more than 100 illuminated vessels parade along Mission Bay starting at 6 p.m., followed by a fireworks show at 9 p.m. above SeaWorld. Mission Bay, mbyc.org. Map I9 GASLAMP HOLIDAY PET PARADE Dec. 10, 1-5 p.m. To celebrate the holidays, pooches and their parents will dress up as Santa, elves, reindeer and every character in between, and will march down the festive streets of the Gaslamp (3 p.m.), starting and ending at MLK Promenade Park (next to the Hilton). Plus, a free pet expo will take place as part of the festivities. 401 K St., Gaslamp, gaslamp.org/events/pet-parade. Map Q16
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 + Events ......... 48 Museums....................... 53 Theater........................... 49 Destination Shopping... 54 Music + Dance............... 51 Nightlife.......................... 55 Attractions..................... 52 Tours + Transport.......... 58
SAN DIEGO BAY PARADE OF LIGHTS Dec. 10 and 17, 5 p.m. See San Diego Bay twinkle with more than 100 private boats decked out with holiday lights for a festive night on the water. Downtown, sdparadeoflights.org. Map Q15 PORT OF SAN DIEGO HOLIDAY BOWL PARADE Dec. 28, 10 a.m. Gaze at the massive balloons at this waterfront parade along San Diego Bay, plus floats and marching bands. Grandstands located at the intersection of Harbor Drive and Ash Street. Downtown, holidaybowl.com/parade. Map P14 HOLIDAY BOWL Dec. 28, 6 p.m. See who wins this epic annual battle of college football heavyweights. SDCCU Stadium, 9449 Friars Road, Mission Valley, holidaybowl.com. Map I12 SAN DIEGO INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW Dec. 28-Jan. 1. Check out hundreds of model-year vehicles, plus preview the cars and trucks of tomorrow, at this annual event “where the cars are the stars.” San Diego Convention Center, 111 W. Harbor Drive, downtown, sdautoshow.com. Map R16 MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY PARADE Jan. 14, 2 p.m. Celebrate the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. at this annual parade along San Diego Bay. Enjoy an afternoon of bands, floats and drill teams as they march down Harbor Drive. Downtown, alpha-zsl.org/mlkdayparade. Map Q16 SAN DIEGO RESTAURANT WEEK Jan. 21-28. Enjoy fabulous dining for less when nearly 200 restaurants throughout the county offer prix-fixe, three-course meals. Visit website for participating restaurants. sandiegorestaurantweek.com. FARMERS INSURANCE OPEN Jan. 25-28. San Diego’s most anticipated pro golf tournament has featured legends such as Tiger Woods (2013 champ) and beloved local superstar Phil Mickelson. The action-packed week includes practice rounds for the PGA Tour players, proam tournaments, women’s and men’s days, a junior clinic, military appreciation activities and celebrity afterparties. Torrey Pines Golf Course, 11480 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, farmersinsuranceopen.com. Map S19 SAN DIEGO BLACK FILM FESTIVAL Jan. 31-Feb. 4. Catch more than 100 films across many genres celebrating African-American and African Diaspora cinema at this annual event, one of the largest black film festivals in the country. Location TBD, sdbff.com. SAN DIEGO MUSEUM MONTH Feb. 1-28. Access more than 40 of San Diego’s top museums all month long for half-off admission, including local favorites such as Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, Maritime Museum, Birch Aquarium at Scripps and several museums at Balboa Park. Pick up passes at San Diego Macy’s stores. Various locations. sandiegomuseumcouncil.org.
W Looking for a refreshing dose of live music? San Diego Symphony hosts an exceptional lineup of concerts and events this winter. p. 51
JEFF ROFFMAN FOR THE ATLANTA OPERA
THE GUIDE
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ENTERTAINMENT SAN DIEGO JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL Feb. 7-18. The 28th annual film festival explores Jewish experiences through a slew of shorts, documentaries and feature films. Various locations. sdcjc.org/sdjff. GASLAMP MASQUERADE MARDI GRAS PARADE & CELEBRATION Feb. 13, 5 p.m.-midnight. Go downtown for one of the largest annual Mardi Gras festivals on the West Coast, equipped with beads, live music and distinct SoCal flavor. Fifth Avenue, Gaslamp, gaslamp.org. Map Q16 HILLCREST FAT TUESDAY Feb. 13, 6-11 p.m. Celebrate Mardi Gras at this roaring annual celebration, featuring live dance and music performances, DJs, a costume contest and DIY mask-making. Hillcrest, fabuloushillcrest.com. Map N16 CHINESE NEW YEAR FAIR Feb. 24-25, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Celebrate the Year of the Dog at this free, annual twoday celebration, featuring live performances, children’s crafts, a lantern parade and a variety of Chinese and Asian foods and cultural displays. Third Ave. and J St., downtown, sdcny.org. Map Q16
THEATER THE MOORS Through Dec. 10. A radical riff on 19th-century romantic novels and the women who conceived them, The Moors is a riotous, wild comedy filled with macabre glee that has more in common with the present day than the past. Diversionary Theatre, 4545 Park Blvd. #101, University Heights, diversionary.org. Map M18
sandiegozoo.org/africarocks
SUMMER: THE DONNA SUMMER MUSICAL Through Dec. 17. This vibrant, world-premiere musical charts the incomparable life of Donna Summer—the undisputed Queen of Disco—and features more than 20 classic hits, including “Hot Stuff,” “On the Radio” and “Last Dance.” Weiss Theatre at the La Jolla Playhouse, 2910 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla, lajollaplayhouse.org. Map T20 BLACK PEARL SINGS! Through Dec. 17. Featuring over 20 folk and spiritual songs, this transcendent tale of an unlikely friendship between two strong women reveals the bridges that can be built through the power of song. San Diego Rep, Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza, downtown, sdrep.org. Map Q16 DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! Through Dec. 24. For spirited kids young and old, experience this annual holiday production of a Dr. Seuss classic. Shiley Stage at the Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, theoldglobe.org. Map O17
OPENING SUMMER 2018
A CHRISTMAS CAROL Through Dec. 24. Expect 19th-century tradition with a 21st-century twist in this completely reimagined Dickens classic—now a new musical, featuring an original score, puppetry and live sound effects. Cygnet Theatre at Old Town Theatre, 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town, cygnettheatre.com. Map M13 MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET: A LIVE RADIO BROADCAST Through Dec. 24. San Diego Musical Theatre presents the heartwarming holiday classic retold as a live 1940s-era radio broadcast—with live Foley effects and a score of holiday songs. Horton Grand Theatre, 444 Fourth Ave., downtown, sdmt.org. Map Q16 FESTIVAL OF CHRISTMAS Through Dec. 30. This year, Lamb’s Players presents A Fargo Christmas, a brand-new comedy—featuring classic holiday songs—written by resident playwright Kerry Meads. Lamb’s Players Theatre, 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado, lambsplayers.org. Map L10 HOLIDAYS AT NORTH COAST REP Dec. 8-24. Celebrate the season with a trio of holiday productions: Dickens Unscripted (Dec. 8-10); From Berlin to Brooks: Celebrating Broadway! (Dec. 16-17); and Sister’s Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of The Magi’s Gold (Dec. 20-24). North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987-D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach, northcoastrep.org. Map X22
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ENTERTAINMENT AN AMERICAN CHRISTMAS Dec. 14-24. Step back to 1917 for a memorable feast! Lamb’s Players Theatre presents this delectable four-course holiday meal in a unique setting of festive dance and song. Guests are encouraged to dress up in festive attire. The US Grant, 326 Broadway, downtown, lambsplayers.org. Map Q16 HERSHEY FELDER AS IRVING BERLIN Dec. 20-Jan. 7. Featuring classic songs such as “God Bless America,” “There’s No Business Like Show Business” and “White Christmas,” this wonderful one-man show celebrates the life and music of famed composer Irving Berlin. San Diego Rep, Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza, downtown, sdrep.org. Map Q16 MOTOWN THE MUSICAL Dec. 26-31. Witness the true American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy’s journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson and many more legends. Broadway/San Diego, Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, broadwaysd.com. Map Q16 HAMILTON Jan. 6-28. Featuring a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B and Broadway, the Tony Award-winning musical tells the story of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton. Broadway/San Diego, Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, broadwaysd.com. Map Q16 AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS Jan. 10-Feb. 4. Join fearless adventurer Phileas Fogg in the original “Amazing Race,” circling the globe with danger, romance and comic surprises at every turn. North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987-D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach, northcoastrep.org. Map X22 THE LAST WIFE Jan. 17-Feb. 11. This contemporary reimagining of the compelling relationship between Henry VIII and his last wife, Katherine Parr, is a witty and powerful examination of sexual politics and women’s rights. Cygnet Theatre at Old Town Theatre, 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town, cygnettheatre.com. Map M13
COME CURIOUS, LEAVE INSPIRED. OPEN DAILY 9A.M.-5P.M. 858.534.FISH AQUARIUM.UCSD.EDU LA JOLLA, CA
·
VIETGONE Jan. 25-Feb. 18. A love story like no other, this comedy offers a mash-up of comic books, martial arts, hip-hop and Hollywood action movies, while recounting a family’s true story of fleeing Vietnam and immigrating to the U.S. San Diego Rep, Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza, downtown, sdrep.org. Map Q16 CARDBOARD PIANO Jan. 25-Feb. 25. Confronting the religious and cultural roots of intolerance, this modernday parable explores the U.S.’s relationship with Africa, and the human capacity for forgiveness. Diversionary Theatre, 4545 Park Blvd. #101, University Heights, diversionary.org. Map M18 THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST Jan. 27- March 4. Oscar Wilde’s wildly entertaining comedy sparkles with dazzling wordplay and hilariously unlikely situations in what the London Telegraph calls “the most perfect comedy in the English language.” Shiley Stage at the Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, theoldglobe.org. Map O17 THE CAKE Feb. 6-March 4. This touching and timely new play follows a conservative baker who must confront her beliefs on marriage when she is asked to bake the cake for her best friend’s daughter’s wedding. Potiker Theatre at the La Jolla Playhouse, 2910 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla, lajollaplayhouse.org. Map T20 DIRTY DANCING Feb. 9-11. The Broadway musical adaptation of the popular ’80s movie starring Patrick Swayze returns. Broadway/San Diego, Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, broadwaysd.com. Map Q16 UNCLE VANYA Feb. 10-March 11. This Globe-commissioned, world-premiere translation of Chekhov’s classic drama about country life, love, hope and loss is a must-see for every theater-lover. White Theatre at the Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, theoldglobe.org. Map O17
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ENTERTAINMENT
YOUR TICKET TO
MUSIC + DANCE + CONCERTS
SEE THE BEST OF SOCAL
ARTPOWER AT UC SAN DIEGO Music, dance, art and film series at UC San Diego. Dec. 1: Feufollet; Jan. 17: Compagnie Hervé Koubi; Jan. 19: Aeolus Quartet; Jan. 25: Liz Vice; Jan. 31: Roland Auzet; Feb. 22: Alsarah & the Nubatones; Feb. 28: New Breed Brass Band. Various locations on and off UC San Diego campus, artpower.ucsd.edu. Map T20
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ATHENAEUM MUSIC AND ARTS LIBRARY January 4-7: soundON Festival of Modern Music; Jan. 8: QuinTexas Quintet; Jan. 23: San Diego Baroque Soloists. 1008 Wall St., La Jolla, ljathenaeum.org. Map W19 BALBOA THEATRE Dec. 4: Trailer Park Boys; Dec. 7: Peppa Pig Live; Dec. 9-10: San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus presents Jingle; Dec. 14: Dave Koz; Dec. 15: An Irish Christmas; Dec. 21-31: Peter Pan and Tinker Bell: A Pirates Christmas; Jan. 19: Tommy Emmanuel; Jan. 20: G3: Joe Satriani, John Petrucci and Phil Collen; Feb. 1: Steven Wright; Feb. 7-8: A Night with Janis Joplin; Feb. 10: Miranda Sings; Feb. 18: Beth Hart; Feb. 22: ABBA Mania. 868 Fourth Ave., downtown, sandiegotheatres.org. Map Q16 CALIFORNIA CENTER FOR THE ARTS Dec. 8-9: Carols by Candlelight; Dec. 9-10: A Christmas Carol; Dec. 16: Jane Lynch: A Swingin’ Little Christmas; Dec. 16-17: West Coast Ballet presents The Nutcracker; Dec. 21: Quattrosound: A Holiday Show; Dec. 23: Russian Grand Ballet presents The Nutcracker; Jan. 3: The Fremonts; Jan. 6: Jungle Jack Hanna; Jan. 14: Wynonna & The Big Noise; Jan. 21: The Hillbenders: The Who’s Tommy, A Bluegrass Opry; Jan. 28: Pacific Coast Horns Brass Quintet; Jan. 30-31 and Feb. 1: Shen Yun; Feb. 7: Jessica Fichot; Feb. 7: Pink Martini; Feb. 11: Michelle Cann; Feb. 18: International Guitar Night; Feb. 22: Black Violin; Feb. 24: Jesse Cook; Feb. 25: The Center Chorale, Symphony Orchestra & Mojalet Dance Collective – A Time to Dance. 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido, artcenter.org. Map B3
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CIVIC THEATRE Dec. 1-3: Cinderella; Dec. 4: Jewel; Dec. 9-23: The Nutcracker; Dec. 26-31: Motown the Musical; Jan. 6-28: Hamilton; Feb. 2-4: Shen Yun; Feb. 9-11: Dirty Dancing; Feb. 24, 27 and March 2, 4: Turandot. 1100 Third Ave., downtown, sandiegotheatres.org. Map Q16
1-Day admission to SeaWorld® San Diego 1-Day admission to LEGOLAND® California
LA JOLLA MUSIC SOCIETY Dec. 2: Some of a Thousand Words: Dec. 17: Dianne Reeves: Christmas Time Is Here; Jan. 7: Igor Levit (piano); Jan. 13: SDYS Chamber Orchestra; Jan. 20: Paul Taylor Dance Company; Jan. 21: Rolston String Quartet; Feb. 25: Paul Huang (violin). Various locations. ljms.org.
SKIP TICKET LINES 98% RECOMMEND CityPASS VALID 14 DAYS
SAN DIEGO OPERA Feb. 24, 27 and March 2, 4: Turandot. Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown, sdopera.org. Map Q16
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SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY Dec. 3: It’s A Wonderful Life in Concert (film screening w/ live score); Dec. 9-10: Winter Daydreams; Dec. 16-17, 22-23: Noel Noel; Dec. 20: Fanfares and Celebrations; Dec. 21: Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker; Dec. 30: Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert; Jan. 13-14: Fascinating Rhythm; Jan. 16: Percussion: A Listener’s Guide; Jan. 20-21: Places in Time; Jan. 26 and 28: Stories in Time; Jan. 27: Jazz @ The Jacobs: The Roots of Rhythm; Jan. 31: John Williams in Concert; Feb. 2-3: Zuckerman Plays Tchaikovsky; Feb. 9: Beyond the Score: Isle of the Dead; Feb. 10-11: Preludes and Premiere; Feb. 16 and 18: Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban in Concert (film screening w/ live score); Feb. 24: Jazz @ The Jacobs: Affinity: A Ray Brown and Oscar Peterson Tribute; Feb. 25: Beat Quest! A Musical Journey Through Rhythm, Time and Place. Copley Symphony Hall, 750 B St., downtown, sandiegosymphony.org. Map Q14 VALLEY VIEW CASINO CENTER Dec. 9: 91X Wrex the Halls feat. The Lumineers, Vance Joy, Dreamcar, The War on Drugs and The Arkells; Jan. 4: The Great Xscape Tour w/ Xscape, Monica & Tamar Braxton; Jan. 30: The Killers; Feb. 9: Shakira; Feb. 15: Lana Del Rey. 3500 Sports Arena Blvd., Midway, valleyviewcasinocenter.com. Map J9
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ATTRACTIONS + MUSEUMS VIEJAS ARENA AT SDSU Dec. 19: Jay-Z; Feb. 8: Toby Mac. 5500 Canyon Crest Drive, SDSU, as.sdsu.edu/ viejas_arena. Map E3
ATTRACTIONS ARTS DISTRICT LIBERTY STATION It’s a one-of-a-kind destination for all things culture in San Diego—housing unique museums, working artist studios, gardens, luxury cinemas, dining and more. 2825 Dewey Road, Liberty Station, 619.573.9300. Map J8 BELMONT PARK A beachfront landmark with attractions, rides, arcades and dining. Highlights include the historical Giant Dipper roller coaster and WaveHouse. 3146 Mission Blvd., Mission Beach, 858.228.9283. Map I8
North Coast Repertory Theatre
(858) 481-1055 | NorthCoastRep.org Solana Beach E
EMIER
PR IEGO SAN D
MIERE
T PRE COAS WEST
BIRCH AQUARIUM AT SCRIPPS Explore one of the nation’s largest oceanographic museums, and enjoy a spectacular view from the tidepool plaza. Daily 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Three-hour courtesy parking. $11-17. 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, 858.534.3474. Map U20 CABRILLO NATIONAL MONUMENT The monument commemorates the landing of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo at S.D. Bay on Sept. 28, 1542. Nearby: whale watching, tidepools, trails, the Old Point Loma Lighthouse and city/ocean views. Daily 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Call for pricing. 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Drive, Point Loma, 619.557.5450. Map L8 CHILDREN’S NATURE RETREAT Visitors of all ages can enjoy and explore this 20-acre outdoor nature and animal haven in East County’s Alpine—home to more than 80 domesticated livestock from around the world. Fun and educational interactive presentations encourage an appreciation for animals, nature, sustainable farming and our ecosystem. 5178 Japatul Spur, Alpine, 619.320.4942, childrensnatureretreat.com. Map D5 GREAT ROOM ESCAPE Channel your inner Sherlock Holmes with this completely interactive and immersive experience that lets you test your wit while the clock ticks. Teams of participants will enter a room, where they will have to find and solve hidden clues in order to make it out in one hour. 424 Market St., Gaslamp, 619.414.5459, greatroomescapesandiego.com. Map Q16
SKATE JAN 10
FEB 21
FEB 4
MAR 18
THROUGH
THE HOLIDAY CLASSIC RETURNS
A hristmas arol
CC
LEGOLAND Find 60-plus rides and shows, and Sea Life Aquarium’s 7-foot-long Lego submarine; plus a waterpark. For pricing, hours and parking information, please visit website. 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, 760.918.5346, legoland.com/california. Map U22 SAFARI PARK Go on a safari through the 1,800–acre preserve, home to herds of exotic animals roaming in vast enclosures resembling African and Asian plains. Plus, soar over the park with the thrilling Flightline Safari zip line experience. 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
THROUGH
directed by SEAN MURRAY
by by KATE KATE HENNIG HENNIG
directed directed by by ROB ROB LUTFY LUTFY
SAN DIEGO PREMIERE
CREATE ,,
NOV 29 DEC 24
CELEBRATE
JAN 17 FEB 11
www.cygnettheatre.com www.cygnettheatre.com OLD TOWN | SAN DIEGO
SAN DIEGO BOTANIC GARDEN Visit one of the world’s most diverse plant collections, with 37 acres of lush gardens, a rainforest, children’s areas and activities, and gorgeous 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 SAN DIEGO ZOO The world-famous zoo houses 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 SEAWORLD The 189-acre adventure park features thousands of marine animals; 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, 800.257.4268. Map I8
BUY LOCAL ART
OPEN MUSEUMS, GALLERIES & STUDIOS
FRIDAY NIGHT LIBERTY FIRST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH
ARTSDISTRICTLibertyStation.com
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ATTRACTIONS + MUSEUMS MUSEUMS CALIFORNIA SURF MUSEUM Collection of surfing artifacts and memorabilia, plus exhibits that detail the lives and achievements of world-renowned 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 CENTRO CULTURAL DE LA RAZA Celebrate Mexican, Chicano and indigenous art and culture with vibrant murals, art exhibits and performances. Gallery open Tu–Su noon–4 p.m. Suggested donation $5. 2125 Park Blvd., Balboa Park, 619.235.6135. Map P17 CORONADO MUSEUM OF HISTORY AND ART Galleries of historical memorabilia reveal Coronado’s rich past and interesting fun facts. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (daily). Suggested donation $2–4. 1100 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.435.7242. Map L10 FLEET SCIENCE CENTER Interactive science galleries explore the wonders of astronomy and physics; plus an IMAX Dome Theater. M-Th 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (open later during holiday breaks); F-Su 10 a.m.-6 p.m. $16.9519.95; kids 3 and under free. 1875 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.238.1233. Map O17 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; plus an on-site restaurant, bar, cafe and gift shop. M-Sa 11 a.m. till close; Su 10:30 a.m. till close. 6115 Paseo del Norte, Carlsbad, 760.918.2421. Map U22 MARITIME MUSEUM OF SAN DIEGO At this worldrenowned floating museum, visit the 1863 barque Star of India (world’s oldest active ship), the 1898 steam ferryboat Berkeley, the 1904 steam yacht Medea, a Soviet-era submarine and the HMS Surprise, the Royal Navy frigate featured in the film Master and Commander. Daily 9 a.m.–8 p.m. $16; seniors/military/teens $13; kids 3-12 $8; kids 2 and under free. The schooner Californian also offers half-day sailing trips ($31-42). 1492 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.234.9153. Map P15 MARSTON HOUSE Craftsman-style house designed by renowned architects William Hebbard and Irving Gill in 1905. The famous estate-turned-museum features period furnishings, pottery and an Indian basketry collection. Open for tours F-M 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Adults $10; kids 6-12 $4; kids 5 and under free. 3525 Seventh Ave., Balboa Park, 619.297.9327. Map O16 MINGEI INTERNATIONAL MUSEUM Exhibits celebrate folk art from around the world. Tu–Su 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $5–10; children 6 and under free. 1439 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.0003. Map O17 MISSION SAN DIEGO DE ALCALÁ The first of 21 issions stretching north along the California coast, m this one was established by Father Junípero Serra in 1769 on Presidio Hill and moved to this site in 1774. Adults $3; kids/seniors $2. 10818 San Diego Mission Road, Mission Valley, 619.281.8449. Map I12 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 (temporarily closed for renovations); 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
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SHOPPING 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. $6–8; 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 Super-mod museum encourages kids to touch and interact with exhibits. M-Sa 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; Su noon-4 p.m. $12; seniors $8; military $6; kids under 1 free; $1 second Su. 200 W. Island Ave., downtown, 619.233.8792. Map Q16 OCEANSIDE MUSEUM OF ART Regional and international artists showcased in exhibits ranging from landscape painting to furniture, neon sculpture, art quilts and architectural glass. A North County gem. 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 SAN DIEGO AIR & SPACE MUSEUM Spacecraft, jets and historical aircraft; plus special exhibits. Daily 10 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. $10.75-19.75; kids 2 and under free. 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-era 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. $8–15; youth 17 and under free. 1450 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.7931. Map O17
FEATURING MORE THAN 10 SAN DIEGO ARTS ORGANIZATIONS Over 30 exciting days, the It’s About Time Festival will showcase more than 25 performances, installations, conversations and encounters, demonstrating how sound can convey emotion and deepen the connections among us all and how it binds us to one another.
T I C K E T S & I N F O R M AT I O N |
sandiegosymphony.org/itsabouttime
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.–5 p.m.; $6–25; children 2 and under free. 1350 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.2001. Map O17 SAN DIEGO NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Dinosaur displays, giant-screen films, photography exhibitions and more. Daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $12–19; children 2 and under free; free for active military first Tu. 1788 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.3821. Map O17 STUART COLLECTION Scattered across the UC San Diego campus, outdoor art collection includes talking and singing trees, a “Sun God” and more. Free. Gilman and La Jolla Village drives, La Jolla, 858.534.2230. Map T20 USS MIDWAY Now a retired aircraft carrier, the world’s largest floating naval-aviation museum has restored airplanes on the flight deck and interactive exhibits inside; plus military veterans giving personal tours. Daily 10 a.m.–5 p.m. $8–20; military/kids 5 and under free. 910 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.544.9600. Map Q14
DESTINATION SHOPPING BAZAAR DEL MUNDO This colorful outdoor shopping mall in the heart of Old Town features quaint shops carrying Mexican decor, clothing, jewelry, art and housewares; plus several festive Mexican restaurants. Perfect for shopping for unique gifts you won’t find elsewhere in San Diego. 4133 Taylor St., Old Town, 619.296.3161. Map M14 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
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NIGHTLIFE
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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, duty-free 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 high-end specialty boutiques. 2720 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.481.7131. Map X22 THE FORUM CARLSBAD Elegant, tree-lined outdoor center with dozens of shops and restaurants, including Anthropologie and Sur La Table. 1905 Calle Barcelona, Carlsbad, 760.479.0166. Map U23
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THE HEADQUARTERS AT SEAPORT Open-air center in a historical setting is home to specialty shops, designer boutiques and restaurants. 789 W. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.235.4014. Map K11 LAS AMERICAS PREMIUM OUTLETS Spanish Colonial-style outlet mall has 125-plus shops, as well as eateries. 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 THE SHOPPES AT CARLSBAD Outdoor shopping center features dozens of retail, dining and entertainment options, including Zara, The Cheesecake Factory and Dave & Buster’s, plus a kid-friendly, waterinspired play area. 2525 El Camino Real, Carlsbad, 760.729.6183. Map U23 WESTFIELD HORTON PLAZA Popular multilevel outdoor mall features dozens of specialty shops, several restaurants, a food court, a park with an amphitheater, and a Macy’s department store. 324 Horton Plaza, downtown, 619.239.8180. Map Q16 WESTFIELD UTC Beautiful outdoor shopping center with more than 150 upmarket chain retailers and shops, department stores, restaurants, a food court and movie theater. 4545 La Jolla Village Drive, Golden Triangle, 858.546.8858. Map T21
NIGHTLIFE Gaslamp Quarter/Downtown/Little Italy 207/FLOAT Rock ‘n’ roll glamour at the Hard Rock Hotel; two nightspots offer different vibes, from the street-level 207 lounge to the pool-outfitted rooftop Float, featuring bottle service in poolside cabanas. Hard Rock Hotel, 207 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.702.3000. Map Q16
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NIGHTLIFE THE CASBAH Small but legendary rock club, owned by equally legendary owner and champion of indie talents Tim Mays, has hosted superstars like Nirvana and The Black Keys on their way up. Live music nightly. 2501 Kettner Blvd., Midtown, 619.232.4355. Map P15 EAST VILLAGE TAVERN & BOWL This lively sports bar, bowling alley and restaurant near Petco Park offers cocktails, darts and pool. Menu features upscale pub grub and top-shelf spirits. 950 Market St., East Village, 619.677.BOWL. Map R17 EL DORADO Hip downtown bar boasts retro-clad mixologists, couture cocktails and DJs. 1030 Broadway, East Village, 619.237.0550. Map Q17 FLUXX Ambiance-changing dance club from the design team behind Sidebar and other venues. 500 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.232.8100. Map Q16 HOUSE OF BLUES SAN DIEGO Live rock, blues and pop music, plus Sunday gospel brunch. Regular mix of national and regional acts. Restaurant inside features Southern dishes such as po’ boys and jambalaya. 1055 Fifth Ave., downtown, 619.299.2583. Map Q16 MOONSHINE FLATS Lively venue features countrywestern line dancing, live music and great lineup of DJs; plus a full bar and kitchen. Bring your cowboy boots and hat. 344 Seventh Ave., East Village, 619.255.7625. Map Q16 THE MUSIC BOX Three-story live music venue boasts superior sound and lighting systems, multilevel VIP areas, bar/lounge and upscale dining. Concert lineup includes regional and national touring artists. 1337 India St., Little Italy, 619.795.1337. Map P15 THE NOLEN Named after landscape architect and San Diego visionary John Nolen (1869-1937), this stylish, 14th-floor rooftop bar features skyline views, lounge seating, a fire pit and barrel-aged, Craftsman-era cocktails and a small menu of upscale snacks. 453 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.796.6536. Map Q16 OMNIA SAN DIEGO The city’s most posh nightlife experience includes indoor/outdoor spaces, interactive features, state-of-the-art technology and a superstar lineup of live DJs and electronic artists. F-Sa (nightly). 454 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.544.9500. Map Q16 PARQ This posh restaurant and nightclub delivers an unparalleled nightlife experience—with a 20,000- square-foot dance space accessed via a stone tunnel— plus renowned DJs and fabulous dining. 615 Broadway, downtown, 619.727.6789. Map Q16 ROOFTOP 600 Vegas-worthy club in the Andaz Hotel boasts sexy decor and a massive, recently renovated rooftop bar with panoramic downtown views. 600 F St., Gaslamp, 619.814.2055. Map Q16 THE SHOUT! HOUSE One of San Diego’s most unique and fun bar experiences. Watch as dueling piano players lead the crowd in classic rock singalongs at this boisterous bar and eatery. 655 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.231.6700. Map Q16 SIDEBAR DJs, dancing and bottle service at this sexy, modern downtown lounge. Watch out for swinging bird cages and nude portraits lining the walls. 536 Market St., Gaslamp, 619.696.0946. Map Q16 THE TIPSY CROW A stylish neighborhood bar with three levels, pool tables, shuffleboard and trivia. Menu features pub grub, craft beer and signature cocktails. 770 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.338.9300. Map Q16
North County
BELLY UP North County’s premier live music venue with killer local and touring acts in a semi-intimate and relaxed setting. 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach, 858.481.8140. Map X22
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SAN DIEGO’S PREMIER OCEAN ADVENTURE OUTFITTER & BIKE TOURS SINCE 1995
NIGHTLIFE
CALL TODAY OR GO ONLINE TO BOOK THE BEST PRICES AVAILABLE! • FUN FOR ALL AGES
CARDIFF BEACH BAR AT TOWER 13 Casual beach haunt features live music, healthier bar fare and ocean views. 2633 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, 760.635.1200. Map V22 CLUB M AT FAIRMONT GRAND DEL MAR Chic bar/ dance club features live music and guest DJs on Friday and Saturday nights. 5300 Grand Del Mar Court, Carmel Valley, 858.314.2700. Map D2 COYOTE BAR & GRILL Locals love its cool live music and hot fire pits; plus dancing and karaoke. Indoor/ outdoor spot offers casual ambiance and a view. 300 Carlsbad Village Drive, Carlsbad, 760.729.4695. Map T22 EN FUEGO Lively singles vibe and tasty Mexican food served up on this restaurant’s bustling patio. 1342 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.6551. Map X22
AT LA JOLLA KAYAK WE CAN HANDLE ALL OF YOUR ADVENTURE NEEDS, FROM SNORKELING, KAYAK OR BIKE TOURS AND RENTALS. FROM THE BEGINNER TO THE EXPERIENCED WE HAVE THE STAFF TO MAKE YOUR DAY GREAT, RIGHT FROM THE START. AJ
OLL A K
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A N N 22 nd IVER SA 19
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JIMMY O’S A favorite of sports fans and locals. Choose between the sports bar and the nightclub. Friday and Saturday nights are popular for Del Mar socialites. Cocktails, wine and beer. 225 W. 15th St., Del Mar, 858.350.3735. Map X22 SADDLE BAR Enjoy craft beer, live music and DJs at this Wild West-inspired bar near the racetrack. 123 W. Plaza St., Solana Beach, 858.755.5007. Map W22
Beaches
710 BEACH CLUB Steps from the beach, this live music venue has everything from rock to hip-hop. 710 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach, 858.483.7844. Map H8 HUMPHREYS BACKSTAGE LOUNGE Live jazz and blues along with dancing. A longtime favorite located right on the water. 2241 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.224.3577. Map K8 PACIFIC BEACH SHORE CLUB A true beach bar just steps from the sand, this upstairs bungalow is known for action sports decor, beach views, tasty pub grub and schooners of beer. 4343 Ocean Blvd., Pacific Beach, 858.272.7873. Map H8 SOUTH BEACH BAR & GRILL Just steps away from the ocean, this bar offers a beachy-casual vibe, light fare and drinks. 5059 Newport Ave., Ocean Beach, 619.226.4577. Map J8 WONDERLAND OCEAN PUB The laid-back American restaurant and sports bar serves up burgers, seafood, craft beer, margaritas and views of the beach. 5083 Santa Monica Ave., Ocean Beach, 619.255.3358. Map J7
The Original Tour of the Seven Caves
Uptown
(858) 459-1114 • www.LaJollaKayak.com • 2199 Avenida De La Playa at La Jolla Shores
WHERE Magazine 1/2 page-Op2-2017.indd 1
PARK & REC Casual-cool neighborhood bar features a courtyard and back patio, old-fashioned cocktails, and games such as table tennis and shuffleboard. 4612 Park Blvd., University Heights, 619.795.9700. Map M18
POLITE PROVISIONS Retro-style, apothecary-inspired bar and atrium offers some of the city’s best craft cock10/18/17 5:21 PMplus microbrews. 4696 30th St., Normal Heights, tails; 619.677.3784. Map I12 SEVEN GRAND SAN DIEGO Stylish whiskey lounge outfitted with dark, wood-lined interiors showcases an extensive bourbon menu. 3054 University Ave., North Park, 619.269.8820. Map J11 SHAKESPEARE PUB & GRILLE UK-inspired pub is great for watching soccer games. Plus traditional British fare, beer, outdoor patio and an excellent whiskey selection. 3701 India St., Midtown, 619.299.0230. Map O14 URBAN MO’S BAR & GRILL Bustling LGBT-friendly hotspot has a regularly packed dance floor, festive theme nights and an outdoor patio. 308 University Ave., Hillcrest, 619.491.0400. Map N16
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BIPLANE, AIR COMBAT & WARBIRD ADVENTURES Fly in gentle or thrilling coastal biplane rides for two, you-fly-it air combat, and loops and rolls in a WWII warbird. Montgomery Field, 760.930.0903. BOCA ROJA BAJA WINE ADVENTURES Explore Baja’s top wineries via private tours of the Valle de Guadalupe. Also craft brewery and food tours in Tijuana, Rosarito and Ensenada. bocarojawineadventures.com BREWERY TOURS OF SAN DIEGO This local company provides transportation to area breweries, beer festivals and beer-related events, plus public and private tours. 619.961.7999, brewerytoursofsd.com. CITYPASS Discount combo packages for the San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, SeaWorld, Universal Studios Hollywood, Disneyland and California Adventure. 888.330.5008, citypass.com. COASTER Commuter train offers coastal scenery as it runs north and south through San Diego County, serving eight stations between Oceanside and downtown San Diego. gonctd.com/coaster. CORONADO HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION TOURS Educational and fun walking tours—including local history, architecture and gardens. Reservations required. 1100 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.8788. Map L11 CORONADO TOURING Walking tour around the historical Hotel del Coronado and neighborhood. Tu, Th and Sa at 11 a.m. $12; children 3 and under free. Meet at Glorietta Bay Inn, 1630 Glorietta Blvd., Coronado, 619.435.5993. Map L11 ENTERPRISE Daily car rentals with approximately 25 locations throughout Orange County and San Diego. Pick-up service available. 888.484.HOTEL. FLAGSHIP CRUISES AND EVENTS Daily 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. 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 GOCAR TOURS Explore the city in a GPS-guided, Storytelling Car. (Yes, they’re those tiny convertibles you see tooling around town.) Helmets required. 2100 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 800.914.6227. Map P15 HIKE BIKE KAYAK Daily guided kayak tours and rentals, plus biking and hiking tours, in La Jolla, Mission Bay, Coronado and other areas—plus surfboard and snorkel gear rentals. 2222 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, 858.551.9510. Map V20 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
Image from Cabrillo National Monument: An Essay in Photographs by Bill Griswold, available for purchase at the Visitor’s Center
BIKE & KAYAK TOURS Bike, kayak and snorkel tours and rentals in La Jolla and Coronado. 2158 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, 858.454.1010. Map V20
Come to Cabrillo National Monument and look for whales, explore WWII military bunkers, visit the historic lighthouse, explore tidepools, take pictures with the entire San Diego downtown skyline and Coronado as your backdrop, and so much more! Whale watching season runs December through March so bring your kids and have a WHALE of a time at Cabrillo this winter! Open daily from 9 - 5 p.m. www.cnmf.org (619) 557-5450 Bookstore: (619) 222-4747
BALBOA PARK Free tours about history, architecture, horticulture and botanical gardens. Visitors Center, 1549 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.239.0512. Map P17
Cabrillo National Monument
TOURS + TRANSPORT
Whale Watching Without Seasickness
TOURS + TRANSPORT
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WATCH • LEARN • SHOP Over 250 local artists in 37 working art studios located in Balboa Park.
spanishvillageart.com open daily 11am-4pm
Spanish Village Art Center • 1770 Village Place • San Diego, CA 92101
TOURS + TRANSPORT OLD TOWN TROLLEY TOURS OF SAN DIEGO Narrated sightseeing tour explores San Diego and Coronado via trolley or “SEAL” (sea and land vehicle). Call for nearest pickup point and reservations. 619.298.8687. ORION SAILING CHARTERS Daily bay cruises and charters on a 1934 sailing vessel. Sheraton Harbor Island East, 1380 Harbor Island Drive, 619.574.7504. Map P13 SAN DIEGO CHINESE HISTORICAL SOCIETY Unique walking tour of the Asian-Pacific Historic District. Second Tu-Sa 10:30 a.m., Su noon. Reservations required. $2; children under 12 free. Chinese Historical Museum, 404 Third Ave., downtown, 619.338.9888. Map R16 SAN DIEGO SCENIC TOURS Daily half-day and full-day tours of interesting attractions in San Diego and Mexico, including the famous Agua Caliente Racetrack in Tijuana. 858.273.8687. SAN DIEGO SEAL TOURS This unique, 90-minute tour aboard the company’s bright-blue Hydra-Terra, an “amphibious vehicle” that drives passengers right into the water, explores San Diego Bay and its environs. Departs Th-M from Seaport Village. 500 Kettner Blvd., Marina District, 619.298.8687. Map Q15
Easy come, easier go.
SAN DIEGO SPEED BOAT ADVENTURES Be the captain of your own speed boat! Trained guides help you navigate the seas via two-way radio and provide a narrated tour during this 13-mile trek along beautiful San Diego Bay. 1450 Harbor Island Drive, #205, Harbor Island, 619.294.5852 Map Q14 SKYE LIMOUSINE Upscale limousine and sedan service for the savvy traveler, offering a fleet of Chrysler 300 sedans, corporate vans and stretch limousines. 1322 K St., East Village, 619.239.7599. Map Q17
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.
SUP CORONADO Enjoy both group and private lessons in the popular sport of stand-up paddle-boarding, plus ocean and bay tours. Ideal for both beginners and seasoned boarders. Various Coronado locations, 619.888.7686. SUPERSHUTTLE Runs to and from the airport 24 hours a day. Accepts all major cards. Individuals, groups and charters welcome. Earn frequent-flier points and miles with select airlines. 800.BLUE.VAN. URBAN SAFARIS Discover San Diego’s inner soul on walking tours of its unique urban neighborhoods. Enjoy weekend walkabouts of San Diego neighborhoods (or by appointment). Covers key points of interest and unique details for every area. 619.944.9255.
Pick-up subject to geographic and other restrictions. ©2015 Enterprise Rent-A-Car F07585 07.15
Come spend the day on the bay. Dine
Shop
Play
Free Live Music Every Weekend For more visitor & event info visit: www.coronadoferrylandingshops.com 1201 1st Street Coronado, CA 92118
WHERE YOU WANT TO BE TOURS Offering team-building scavenger hunts that explore downtown San Diego. Walking and biking tours also available; plus culinary food tours and custom hotel property games. Events are ideal for leadership retreats, recruitment, school programs, birthday celebrations, family and school reunions, and more. 611 K St., East Village, 619.917.6037. Map Q16 XPLORE OFFSHORE Personalized ocean-rafting on a Navy SEAL-style boat: high-speed sightseeing, snorkeling and evening cocktails on the waterfront. It’s one of the most unique and exhilarating boating excursions in all of Southern California. Plus, whale watching (seasonal) and custom adventures. Perfect for outings with family, friends, groups and corporate events. 858.456.1636.
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where 30 things we love
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26 Quiet morning strolls along the Pacific Beach boardwalk, before the crowds arrive. The Smokin’ in the Silent Theatre cocktail at Lionfish. p. 6 Whale watching excursions; blue and gray whales can be spotted off S.D. shores in winter and spring. p. 48 The Hannibal Lecter pizza loaded with Italian meats at Ambrogio 15 in north Pacific Beach. p. 8 Watching PGA pros tee off at the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines Golf Course. p. 4 Witnessing Balboa Park come alive with lights, music and 300,000 holiday revelers at December Nights. p. 48 Taking the ferry from downtown San Diego across the bay on a Saturday to the landmark Coronado Ferry Landing.
where in the world
Touring the striking architectural marvel that is The Salk Institute for Biological Studies campus in La Jolla. Watching pooches play at Ocean Beach’s Dog Beach. Morning hikes through Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, as waves crash below. Shopping for beachy tote bags, makeup and skin care at SeaMakers & Co. in La Jolla. p. 18 The signature ramen bowl with fat noodles and fried garlic at Tajima Ramen in Hillcrest. p. 12 Jogging along the sandy stretches of La Jolla Shores Beach. The 72 bold murals at Chicano Park in Barrio Logan. Exploring cool exhibits at the Oceanside Museum of Art— an underrated cultural gem in the heart of North County. p. 25
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,
Taste-testing our way through Liberty Public Market.
Sunday day trips to Julian for antique shopping.
The Carbonara con Piselli pasta dish with egg and pancetta at Barbusa in Little Italy.
Touring the city’s many incredible museums for halfprice admission during San Diego Museum Month. p. 48
Mountain-biking through the gorgeous trails of Tecolote Canyon Natural Park. Checking out new exhibits at the San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park. p. 9 Wine tasting among 20-plus wineries in Escondido in northeast San Diego County. Watching a play at North Coast Repertory Theatre in Solana Beach. p. 24 Feasting on gourmet steak dishes at Born & Raised in Little Italy. p. 14 Sunny Coronado Beach mornings, spent relaxing in the sand with a good book.
A night at the San Diego Opera. Soprano Lise Lindstrom returns to sing the title role in Puccini’s Turandot, opening Feb. 24 at the Civic Theatre. p. 48 Perusing the Hillcrest farmers market on Sunday mornings. Trips to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park for hiking, stargazing and viewing natural wonders such as the stark Borrego Badlands. Getting a java jolt at Holsem Coffee in North Park. p. 23 Ice skating by the beach overlooking the Pacific in midDecember at Hotel del Coronado, wearing shorts. These San Diego winters are brutal! p. 48
New Orleans, New York, Northern Virginia, Oahu, Orange County (CA), Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix/Scottsdale, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, South Florida, St. Louis, Washington, D.C. ASIA Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore AUStrALIA Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne Canada Calgary, Canadian Rockies, Edmonton, Halifax, Muskoka/Parry Sound, Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver, Victoria, Whistler, Winnipeg Europe Berlin, Budapest, London, Milan, Moscow, Paris, Rome, St. Petersburg
17, lyudmila zotova; 26, courtesy san diego opera; 29, greg marino
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