Balboa Park

SAN DIEGO’S “CROWN JEWEL” EMBODIES ART, ARCHITECTURE AND ANIMAL ATTRACTION

Nestled among palm trees and botanical gardens, ornate Spanish Colonial buildings house many of the 1,200-acre park’s museums and art exhibits. Several buildings were constructed as part of two world fairs: the Panama-California Exposition in 1915–16, and the California-Pacific International Exposition in 1935–36.

ARTS & CULTURE

A park staple since 1935, The Old Globe theater showcases superior theatrical talent with its renowned plays and musicals. The Marie Hitchcock Puppet Theatre hosts whimsical puppet shows. The Spreckels Organ Pavilion houses the world’s largest outdoor pipe organ, with 5,017 pipes. The House of Pacific Relations International Cottages promote 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.

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 Museum of Photographic Arts (MOPA) showcases compelling photography and presents films in its state-of-the-art theater.

Mingei International Museum (reopened after a $55 million renovation) is dedicated to art and cultures around the world; while Timken Museum of Art houses the Putnam Foundation’s collection of European and Byzantine art, including exquisite Russian religious paintings.

The San Diego Art Institute’s Museum of the Living Artist presents exhibitions by contemporary local artists; and the historical Spanish Village

Art Center is a collection of 37 studios representing 200-plus artists—working in media ranging from sculpture to blown glass.

SCIENCE & HISTORY

The San Diego Air and Space Museum salutes aviation with 68 original, reproduction and model airplanes and spacecraft. The Fleet Science Center has interactive exhibitions and an IMAX Giant Dome theater. From antiques to hot rods, the San Diego Automotive Museum’s collection depicts the evolution of the automobile. The life-sized T-Rex skeleton, fossil exhibits and 3D theater at the San Diego Natural History Museum let visitors explore the natural world—with a focus on SoCal and Baja.

Focusing on the human experience that connects us, the anthropological Museum of Us explores cultures worldwide.

The Model Railroad Museum boasts scale models and interactive features for children. The San Diego History Center features interactive and engaging exhibits showcasing the city’s storied past. At the Veterans Museum & Memorial Center, find military uniforms from World War I, the Vietnam War and the Korean War; as well as maritime artwork.

The Marston House, a Craftsman Prairie-style mansion designed in 1905 by noted architect Irving Gill, is a must for history and architecture buffs; the grounds feature a carriage house and gardens.

ATTRACTIONS & GARDENS

The park’s main attraction is, of course, the 105-yearold San Diego Zoo, with 4,000 rare and endangered species. There’s also the Balboa Park Carousel; and the Miniature Railroad, which spans 4 acres.

The park 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 blooms with 7,000 flowers. The Japanese Friendship Garden features a Zenlike 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 butterfly habitat. The Old Cactus Garden has succulents and exotic plants. With 2,100 orchids, ferns, poinsettias and many rare plants, the striking Botanical Building is among the world’s largest lath structures—fronted by the famous Lily Pond

Recreation

From hiking to tennis to bocce ball, you’ll find it in the park. The Balboa Park Activity Center comprises facilities for badminton, table tennis, volleyball and more; while the Balboa Park Municipal Golf Course offers 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. Balboa Tennis Club, open to the public, has 25 courts and a pro shop. The dapper, white-clad members of the San Diego Lawn Bowling Club, which dates back to 1931, play seven days a week. And dogs are welcome. Find leash-free dog parks at Balboa Drive and El Prado, south of Cabrillo Bridge, and another at Morley Field, northwest of the tennis courts.

North Park Newbie

Accented by a brick wall, white tables and elegant chandeliers, quaint cafe Verbena Kitchen is a study in elevated urban dining. Sample chef Ronnie Schwandt’s seasonal small plates, such as Peruvian shrimp ceviche; oysters with house-made hot sauce; deviled eggs with avocado, crispy corn and crab; and wagyu beef tartare with cured egg yolk; plus beer, wine and cocktails. 3043 University Ave., North Park, 619.269.5776

Gaslamp Quarter

CAFE SEVILLA > Spanish $$$

Celebrated staple of the Gaslamp serves Spanish tapas and seafood specialties. Try the sangria and seafood paella with black rice. 353 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.233.5979 Map R16

HUNTRESS > Steak $$$$

RMD Group’s glam steakhouse boasts the finest cuts of meat, seafood, and an extensive Japanese whisky selection—all served inside a multilevel, modern space with a mezzanine and floor-to-ceiling wine display. Plus, outdoor dining and Sunday brunch. 376 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.329.4868 Map Q16

LIONFISH > Seafood $$$

Hotspot at Pendry San Diego hotel features modern coastal cuisine and cocktails. Try the big-eye tuna pizza with truffle oil, specialty sushi rolls, daily fresh catches and Sunday brunch. 435 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.738.7200 Map Q16

LUMI > Japanese $$$$

Two-time Michelin-star celeb chef Akira Back fronts this new upscale hotspot by RMD Group—an outdoor rooftop oasis serving modern Japanese-inspired fare, sushi, A5 Japanese wagyu and inventive cocktails. Entrees include seared salmon and Jidori chicken. 366 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.329.5864 Map Q16

NOBU > Japanese $$$$

The reigning hotspot at Hard Rock Hotel by the legend Nobu Matsuhisa serves authentic sushi, the chef’s famous jalapeño-yellowtail sashimi and excellent miso black cod. 207 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.814.4124 Map Q16

OSETRA SEAFOOD & STEAKS > Seafood $$$

Indulge in caviar, fresh catches, pastas, prime steaks, lamb chops and Baja shrimp cocktail at this progressive eatery, whose interior is defined by a three-story wine tower. 904 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.239.1800 Map Q16

STK SAN DIEGO > Steak $$$$

Steak is the star here. Choose your size and cut, from a 6-ounce fillet to a 128-ounce dry-aged tomahawk; then choose a topping, such as Alaskan king crab and truffle butter; and add a side of sweet corn pudding. 600 F St., Gaslamp, 619.354.5988 Map Q16

Guidelines

Map locators at the end of each listing (Map A3; Map H10, etc.) refer to maps on pages 44-47. The compendium consists of editors’ recommendations, as well as a small number of advertisers.

WATER GRILL > Seafood $$$

Nautical-inspired fine-dining spot serves fresh seafood and features a raw bar with more than 15 types of oysters. Extensive menu includes shellfish platters, jumbo lump blue crab cakes, sushi, sandwiches, king crab legs and whole fish preparations. 615 J St., Gaslamp, 619.717.6992 Map Q16

DOWNTOWN / EAST VILLAGE

CAFE 222 > Breakfast $$

Locals love the quirky American cuisine and whimsical decor. Popular dishes include the peanut-butter waffles with bananas for breakfast; and the tuna melt and salads for lunch. 222 Island Ave., downtown, 619.236.9902 Map R15

COWBOY STAR > Steak $$$

Boasting cowhide barstools, this stylish spot is decked out in Old West adornments. Try the buttermilk-fried sweetbreads, seared scallops, excellent meat selections and craft cocktails. 640 10th Ave., East Village, 619.450.5880 Map Q17

MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE > Steak $$$$

Find 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. 285 J St., downtown, 619.696.3369 Map Q16

RICHARD WALKER’S PANCAKE HOUSE > Breakfast $

Family-owned/operated institution since 1948 offers gourmet breakfast and lunch fare. Choose from oven-baked omelets, Bavarian-style pancakes, classic griddlecakes, crepes, Benedicts and much more. 520 Front St., downtown, 619.231.7777

Map Q15

EMBARCADERO / MARINA DISTRICT

ANIMAE > Pan-Asian $$$$

Opulent art-deco decor meets fine Pan-Asian dining at this posh palace. Specialties include Japanese A5 wagyu, rice and noodle dishes, and seafood. 969 Pacific Hwy., downtown, 619.432.1225 Map Q15

EDDIE V’S PRIME SEAFOOD

> American $$$$

Find classics like shrimp cocktail, crab cakes and lobster bisque; plus 28-dayaged prime steaks and South African lobster tails. 789 W. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.615.0281 Map Q15

THE FISH MARKET

> Seafood $$$

Casual dining includes fresh local seafood, sushi, an oyster bar and San Diego Bay views. Upstairs: fine dining and an expanded wine list at Top of the Market. 750 N. Harbor Drive, Embarcadero, 619.232.3474 Map Q15

PUESTO > Mexican $$$

The menu boasts soy-chorizo tacos and lobster tacos with black beans and crispy onions; plus high-end tequilas and mezcals. 789 W. Harbor Drive, #155, downtown, 619.233.8880 Map K11

SALLY’S FISH HOUSE & BAR > Seafood $$$

Nestled marina-side at Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego, the elegant-casual restaurant boasts an alfresco patio and locally sourced crab cakes, lobster rolls, oysters and mahi-mahi tacos. One Market Place, downtown, 619.358.6740 Map Q15

LITTLE ITALY

BENCOTTO > Italian $$$

This contemporary cucina earns raves for simple but well-executed create-your-own pasta dishes; plus other Italian specialties such as lamb shank braised in red wine and herbs. 750 W. Fir St., Little Italy, 619.450 4786 Map P15

BORN AND RAISED

> Steak $$$$

Glam fine-dining steakhouse is all about the beef. Feast on fillets, porterhouses, rib-eyes, dry-aged cuts, American and Japanese wagyu, and prime rib; plus, the city’s largest collection of scotch. 1909 India St., Little Italy, 619.202.4577 Map P15

(V) CIVICO 1845 > Italian $$$

Contemporary Italian bistro centers on Calabrian cuisine —featuring a warm decor clad with reclaimed wood, a patio, handmade pastas and traditional entrees; plus a separate all-vegan menu. 1845 India St., Little Italy, 619.431.5990 Map P15

THE CRACK SHACK

> California $$

This hip outdoor eatery serves all-day chicken and egg dishes (try the Coop Deville sandwich with fried Jidori chicken); plus a full bar and bocce court. 2266 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.795.3299 Map P15

CRAFT & COMMERCE

> Gastropub $$$

Sip inventive craft cocktails at its taxidermy-adorned bar; or nosh on refined gastropub fare such as whole-fried chicken and bone marrow in its cozy-chic library. (Oh, and ask about the speakeasy behind the back door.) 675 W. Beech St., Little Italy, 619.269.2202 Map P15

HERB & WOOD

> American $$$$

Feast on wood-fired dishes inside chef Brian Malarkey’s chic spot. The oxtail gnocchi is a must. 2210 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.955.8495 Map P15

IRONSIDE FISH & OYSTER

> Seafood $$$$

Dine on fine sea fare at this big city-style restaurant and bar, such as lobster rolls, daily fresh catches, crab cakes, clam chowder and fried oyster sliders; plus craft libations and decadent desserts. 1654 India St., Little Italy, 619.269.3033 Map P15

JUNIPER AND IVY

> California $$$$

The mod Cali-American menu at this finer-dining spot boasts seafood, pastas and small plates; menu changes seasonally.

2228 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.269.9036 Map P15

KETTNER EXCHANGE

> American $$$$

Little Italy hotspot offers progressive dishes such as big-eye tuna pizza and gluten-free gnocchi. Downstairs is a sumptuous space with a two-way fireplace, along with an alfresco patio; upstairs is a chic rooftop lounge. 2001 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy, 619.255.2001 Map P15

MORNING GLORY

> Breakfast $$$

The bold decor includes a pink Champagne vending machine and a 30-foot, neon-pink flower sculpture. Try the Japanese-soufflé pancakes and spiked Orange Julius. 550 W. Date St., Little Italy, 619.629.0302 Map P15

QUEENSTOWN PUBLIC

HOUSE > New Zealand $$ Salads, burgers and fish ‘n’ chips rule at this New Zealand- inspired eatery, featuring a charming dining porch and dog-friendly dining lawn and patio. 1557 Columbia St., Little Italy, 619.546.0444 Map P15

La Jolla

BROCKTON VILLA

> American $$

This 1894 cottage offers a spectacular ocean view and hearty breakfast dishes. Try the Coast Toast and the veggie breakfast bowl. 1235 Coast Blvd., La Jolla, 858.454.7393 Map W19

CATANIA > Italian $$$

Enjoy coastal Italian fare and 180-degree ocean views. The menu features organic salads, small plates, wood-fired pizzas, pastas and entrees like whole-roasted branzino; plus semifreddo for dessert. 7863 Girard Ave., #301, La Jolla, 858.551.5105 Map W19

THE COTTAGE > American $$

A La Jolla staple for 25 years, The Cottage is a charming turn-ofthe-century home with a quaint garden patio. Try the popular stuffed brioche French toast and Baja-chicken-sausage hash; plus sandwiches, salads and burgers. 7702 Fay Ave., La Jolla, 858.454.8409 Map W19

DUKE’S LA JOLLA

> Seafood $$$

The Hawaii-based chain is known for its seasonal fresh fish and seafood, steaks, tropical cocktails, vibrant atmosphere and views overlooking La Jolla Cove. 1216 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.5888 Map W19

EDDIE V’S PRIME

SEAFOOD > Seafood $$$$

Find views of the cove and classics such as shrimp cocktail, crab cakes and lobster bisque; plus 28-day-aged prime steaks and Parmesan-crusted sole. 1270 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.459.5500 Map W19

GEORGE’S AT THE COVE

> California $$$$

La Jolla institution comprises three levels (from elegant to casual) of ocean views. Chef Trey Foshee creates seafood, steak and regional dishes. 1250 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.4244 Map W19

HERRINGBONE

> American $$$$

Expect farm-to-sea dishes, a full raw bar, craft cocktails and 100-year-old olive trees inside this refined warehouse-style space; plus alfresco dining. 7837 Herschel Ave., La Jolla, 858.459.0221 Map W19

JAVIER’S > Mexican $$$$

Mexican fine dining with a chic, resort-style ambiance—water features, lush greenery and stylish patrons sipping margaritas. Try the shrimp enchiladas and carnitas plate; plus rare tequilas and craft cocktails. 4301 La Jolla Village Drive, 858.200.2222 Map T21

Marine Room

> California $$$$

It’s nouveau French-Cali cuisine, such as pistachio-crusted rack of lamb and wild-mushroom risotto, in an unparalleled oceanfront location—where waves splash against the windows at high tide. 2000 Spindrift Drive, La Jolla, 858.459.7222 Map W20

THE MED > American $$$

La Valencia’s Mediterraneanvilla-style eatery features dishes like Verlasso salmon and Jidori chicken; plus an ocean-view terrace. 1132 Prospect St., La Jolla, 855.818.6887 Map W19

PIATTI > Italian $$$

Delicious pastas, pizzas made from a stone-hearth oven and other Italian faves on the dining patio near the ocean in La Jolla Shores await. The braised short-rib cannelloni is divine. 2182 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, 858.454.1589

Map V20

PUESTO > Mexican $$

Casual eatery features organic, gourmet tacos, specialty cocktails, beer, wine and high-end tequilas and mezcals; along with an expanded sidewalk patio. 1026 Wall St., La Jolla, 858.454.1260 Map W19

RED O RESTAURANT > Mexican $$$$

Upscale Mexican bistro and tequila lounge features gourmet, modern twists on traditional Cali-Mex fare; plus a generous patio and extensive spirits list. 4340 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla, 858.291.8360 Map T21

RICHARD WALKER’S PANCAKE HOUSE > Breakfast $

Family-owned/operated institution offers a big selection of flapjacks and gourmet breakfast and lunch fare. Try the oven-baked omelets and crepes. 909 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.459.8800 Map W19

MISSION BAY / BEACHES

BO-BEAU KITCHEN + BAR

> French $$$

Classic French dishes (boeuf bourguignon)—along with craft cocktails and French wines—are served in a cozy and inviting bohemian atmosphere. 4996 W. Point Loma Blvd., Ocean Beach, 619.224.2884 Map J8

DUCK DIVE > American $$

Find coastal cuisine, craft beer and cocktails inside this casualcool lounge—featuring surf videos, a wavelike ceiling and a prime location just steps from the ocean. Offerings include tacos, sandwiches, salads and grilled fresh fish. 4650 Mission Blvd., Pacific Beach, 858.273.3825 Map H8

THE FRENCH GOURMET > French $$

This quaint eatery, bakery and wine shop serves traditional entrees such as duck confit, rack of lamb and vegetarian ratatouille. Or opt for to-go sandwiches, cheese, charcuterie and desserts. 960 Turquoise St., Pacific Beach, 858.488.1725 Map H8

HODAD’S > Burgers $$

Renowned burger joint with fresh toppings, huge portions, onion rings, milkshakes and microbrews on tap. Try the double bacon cheeseburger. 5010 Newport Ave., Ocean Beach, 619.224.4623 Map J8

JRDN > California $$$

Hip restaurant and bar at Tower23 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. 723 Felspar St., Pacific Beach, 858.270.5736 Map H7

MISS B’S COCONUT CLUB > California $$

Laid-back spot features an open-air bar, Caribbeaninspired fare and tropical cocktails. Try the jerk-rubbed chicken wings. 3704 Mission Blvd., Mission Beach, 858.381.0855 Map H7

PUEBLO > Mexican $$$

Upscale restaurant/bar two blocks from the ocean features a rooftop deck, modern Baja-style dishes and seafood. Menu changes often to include the freshest catches and seasonal produce. 877 Hornblend St., Pacific Beach, 858.412.3312 Map H8

WATERBAR SAN DIEGO

> Seafood $$$

Take in views of the Pacific while enjoying seafood delights such as the scallop ceviche, coconut shrimp and daily fresh catches; plus burgers, salads, craft cocktails and brioche

French toast for weekend brunch. 4325 Ocean Blvd., Pacific Beach, 858.888.4343 Map H7

HARBOR / SHELTER / POINT LOMA

BALI HAI > Polynesian $$$

Tiki oasis features Korean barbecue ribs and wok-fried whole striped bass; plus fabulous bay and downtown skyline views; and the most potent mai tais in town. 2230 Shelter Island Drive, Shelter Island, 619.222.1181 Map K9

COASTERRA > Mexican $$$

The stars are its massive waterfront dining deck and regional Mexican cuisine and sea fare. Bar offers more than 100 tequilas and mezcal infusions. 880 Harbor Island Drive, Harbor Island, 619.814.1300 Map J10

ISLAND PRIME > Steak $$$

Chef Deborah Scott’s famed steakhouse offers premium cuts, seafood, cocktails, and sweeping bay and skyline views. Adjacent C Level Lounge on the spacious deck offers more casual fare. 880 Harbor Island Drive, Harbor Island, 619.298.6802

Map J10

OLD VENICE > Italian $$$

This local favorite (and familyowned for 42 years) features a candlelit atmosphere, romantic back courtyard, white-onwhite decor and classic Italian cuisine. 2910 Canon St., Point Loma, 619.222.5888 Map K8

WESTERLY PUBLIC HOUSE

> California $$$

Located at The Monsaraz hotel, this Cali-Aussie concept serves an all-day food menu (try the Bondi breakfast plate) and cocktails. The dining room opens out to a courtyard with a living plant wall and mural. 1451 Rosecrans St., Point Loma, 619.790.5700, 619.222.5888 Map K8

Coronado

BLUEWATER BOATHOUSE

> Seafood $$$

Classic fish house features fresh, sustainable seafood, housemade chowders and an oyster bar. Bluewater sits over the water in the historical former boathouse of the Hotel del Coronado.

1701 Strand Way, Coronado, 619.435.0155 Map L10

LEROY’S KITCHEN & LOUNGE > California $$

Recognized for its farm-totable fare; plus seafood, meat and pasta dishes. Favorites include miso-glazed swordfish and wild-boar Bolognese.

1015 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.437.6087 Map L11

LOBSTER WEST > Seafood $$

Quaint, fast-casual eatery serves fresh Maine lobster rolls, crab rolls, shrimp rolls, lobster bisque, clam chowder and salads. Beer and wine to drink.

1033 B Ave., #102, Coronado, 619.675.0002 Map L10

STAKE CHOPHOUSE & BAR > Steak $$$$

Sleek spot features premium steaks—including wagyu and Kobe—seafood delicacies and braised bone marrow; plus a 2,000-bottle wine cellar.

1309 Orange Ave., Coronado, 619.522.0077 Map L10

DEL MAR / RANCHO SANTA

FE

ADDISON > French $$$$

Chef William Bradley creates elegant dishes from local ingredients at this fine-dining outpost, which has San Diego’s only Michelin star. 5200 Grand Del Mar Way, Del Mar, 858.314.1900 Map X22

THE BRIGANTINE

> Seafood $$$

Popular chain with a fun happy hour, steaks and chops is known for its fish tacos, clam chowder, grilled swordfish and oyster bar. 3263 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.481.1166 Map X22

CUCINA ENOTECA

> Italian $$$

Stylish eatery features a rooftop patio and a Cali-Italian menu with antipasti, salads, pastas and artisanal pizzas. 2730 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.704.4500 Map X22

EN FUEGO > Mexican $$$

Lively restaurant and bar with traditional dishes such as empanadas, tamales and seafood; plus mojitos and margaritas.

1342 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.6551 Map X22

MARKET RESTAURANT

+ BAR > California $$$$

Carl Schroeder crafts mod dishes using local produce, seafood and meats. Think: pan-roasted grouper with sweet-corn polenta. 3702 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.523.0007 Map X22

MILLE FLEURS > French $$$$

Bertrand Hug’s romantic restaurant is a classic date spot, serving updated French/California cuisine (think: Berkshire pork chops with sweet-potato gnocchi); plus an outstanding wine list. 6009 Paseo Delicias, Rancho Santa Fe, 858.756.3085 Map W23

PACIFICA DEL MAR

> Seafood $$$

Upscale, ocean-view spot serves seafood, steak and pasta. Visit the vodka bar offering 200-plus selections. 1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, 858.792.0476 Map X22

PAMPLEMOUSSE GRILLE

> French $$$$

Chef Jeffrey Strauss presents a country-French–influenced American menu in an intimate spot near the racetrack. Try the basil-roasted sea bass. 514 Via de la Valle, Del Mar, 858.792.9090 Map W22

POSEIDON RESTAURANT

> Seafood $$$

Its beachfront deck offers unrivaled views. Dinner entrees such as lemon-pepper-crusted diver scallops, pan-seared Chilean sea bass and wasabi-sesamecrusted yellowfin make up the contemporary, seafood-focused menu. 1670 Coast Blvd., Del Mar, 858.755.9345 Map X22

North Coastal

BLUE OCEAN ROBATA & SUSHI BAR > Japanese $$$

Striking modern design meets inventive Japanese cuisine. Yakitori-skewered proteins and veggies are charcoal-fired on a robata grill; plus sushi, small plates and Japanese whisky. 2958 Madison St., #100, Carlsbad, 760.434.4959 Map T22

BLUEWATER GRILL

> Seafood $$

Classic fish house features sustainable seafood, house-made chowders and an oyster bar. Try the lemon-pepper mahi mahi and blackened fish tacos. 417 Carlsbad Village Drive, Carlsbad, 760.730.3474 Map T22

CAMPFIRE > American $$$

The striking indoor/outdoor restaurant features campground-inspired decor, inventive wood-fired dishes, seafood, pasta dishes such as duck cavatelli, and smoky craft cocktails. 2725 State St., Carlsbad, 760.637.5121 Map T22

CHART HOUSE > Seafood $$$

Seafood and steakhouse has picturesque coastline location with floor-to-ceiling windows. Indulge in herb-roasted prime rib and hot-chocolate lava cake for dessert. 2588 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, 760.436.4044 Map W22

CRAFTSMAN TAVERN

> American $$

This stylish watering hole serves buttermilk-fried chicken, deep-fried Brussels sprouts with bacon, gourmet burgers, flatbreads and butterscotch pudding. 267 El Camino Real, Encinitas, 760.452.2000 Map V22

THE FISH MARKET

> Seafood $$$

Casual dining includes fresh local seafood, clam chowder, sushi and an oyster bar. Upstairs: fine dining and an expanded wine list at Top of the Market. 640 Via de la Valle, Solana Beach, 858.755.2277 Map W22