2019
is brought to you by:
A Adams Ave.................................. pg 6 B Balboa Park................................. pg 8 C Barrio Logan............................. pg 10 D Downtown/Gaslamp...............pg 12 e Hillcrest........................................pg 16 f Kearny Mesa..............................pg 18 g La Jolla....................................... pg 20 h Little Italy...................................pg 22 i North Park.................................pg 24 j Ocean Beach........................... pg 30 k Old Town....................................pg 34 l Pacific Beach............................pg 36 m Point Loma................................pg 38 n South Park/Golden Hill........ pg 40 o North County............................pg 42 p East County.............................. pg 46 Q South Bay................................. pg 48 Annual Events.......................... pg 50
ART DIRECTOR Tristan Whitehouse
PUBLISHER Steven Persitza
CONTRIBUTORS Torrey Bailey
EDITOR Seth Combs
ADVERTISING SALES Jason Noble Paulina Porter-Tapia Richard Diaz Jr.
EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING OFFICE 3047 University Ave., Suite. 202, San Diego, CA 92104 • sdcitybeat.com For information or additional copies, please call (619) 281-7526.
i North Park k Old Town
A Adams Ave
e Hillcrest
O b Balboa Park
h Little Italy
n South Park/ Golden Hill
D Downtown/ Gaslamp
C Barrio Logan
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adams ave
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his active avenue stretches from west to east through University Heights, Normal Heights and Kensington. While diverse in their own rights, each of these three neighborhoods favors funky shops, vintage thrifts and plant-based restaurants. This neighborly area is loved by locals for dive bar hopping and boutique shopping.
To Do Visit Back from Tomboctou (3564 Adams Ave.), a colorful shop carrying authentic Mexican folk art, including ceramic sugar skulls and painted wooden crosses, that make for great gifts Pick out one-of-a-kind souvenirs at supernatural store Botanica Mama Roots (3512 Adams Ave.) Landmark Ken Cinema (4061 Adams Ave.): This is one of the few remaining single-screen cinemas in the county, and shows films both old and new
Back From Tomboctou
To Eat Kensington Cafe (4141 Adams Ave.): This neighborhood cafe is open for breakfast lunch and dinner, with daily specials and a dog-friendly patio Blind Lady Alehouse (3416 Adams Ave.): Aside from its impressive tap list, this homey brew house cooks up delectable wood-fired pizzas Antique Row Cafe (3002 Adams Ave.) This diner is outfitted in retro memorabilia and is known for serving generous portions of classic breakfast menu items
Blind Lady Ale House
To Drink Polite Provisions (4696 30th St.): This polished, apothecary-inspired bar played an integral role in pioneering San Diego’s craft cocktail movement Clem’s Bottle House & Deli (4100 Adams Ave.): Will Farrell is known to love this family-owned store, which hosts a wide selection of international beer and wines to take home. With luck, you may catch him there. Clem’s Bottle House & Deli Rabbit Hole (3377 Adams Ave.): A large pub with circular bar, rabbit-themed decor and sports playing on plenty of TV screens
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balboa park
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eferred to as the jewel of San Diego, Balboa Park is a 1,200-acre urban park that teems with culture. Built in 1915 for the Panama-California Exposition, it’s home to the world-famous San Diego Zoo, more than a dozen museums, various gardens, towering Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and more. Balboa Park is a must-see destination for families, couples and solo travelers alike
To Do The Old Globe (1363 Old Globe Way): Catch a play at this award-winning theatre that was built in 1935 to replicate Shakespeare’s Old Globe in London. More than 20 of its productions have gone on to Broadway and Off Broadway San Diego Zoo (2920 Zoo Drive): This world-famous zoo boasts more than 3,700 animals, including elephants, jaguars, polar bears and more Natural History Museum Walk through the grounds to find Spanish Colonial-style architecture and more than 16 museums spread throughout the park, including the Museum of Man, Natural History Museum, San Diego Museum of Art and many more
To Eat Nestled next to the San Diego Museum of Art, Panama 66 (1450 El Prado) is a counter-service restaurant offering a full bar and live music. Head here on Wednesdays to catch youth artist jam sessions The Prado (1549 El Prado): A charming sit-down restaurant offering fine California-inspired cuisine in indoor and patio seating, plus a lounge The Prado Tea Pavilion at Japanese Friendship Garden (2215 Pan American Place): Located inside Balboa Park’s scenic Japanese garden, this cafe offers imported teas, sushi and other Asian Fusion items
To Drink Alaska Airlines Flight Path Grill (2001 Pan American Plaza): Connected to Balboa Park’s Air & Space Museum, this outdoor restaurant serves up beer, wine and exceptional views of incoming aircraft on its patio Lady Carolyn’s Pub (1363 Old Globe Way): Situated next to The Old Globe, this outdoor restaurant and pub specializes in hot cocktails, such as Hot Apple Rum and twists on Irish coffee Alaska Airlines Flight Path Grill Home Plate Cafe (2131 Pan American Plaza): A casual sports cafe located near Balboa Park’s Hall of Champions that offers a sizeable selection of draft beers and sandwiches to savor while catching a game on TV
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barrio logan
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arrio Logan is a grassroots, arts-heavy neighborhood with strong Chicano roots. The progressive art galleries, craft coffee shops and tried-and-true eateries are some of the city’s finest. Here you’ll find show-stopping low-riders, historic murals and some of the most authentic Mexican cuisine around.
To Do San Diego Vintage Company (2185 Logan Ave.): Karlos Paez of local band, The B-Side Players, owns this small space that’s overflowing with vintage vinyls, clothing and other unique collectables Chicano Park (Cesar E. Chavez Parkway and Logan Avenue.): This national historic landmark depicts Chicanx history via a large collection of murals painted on the San Diego Vintage Company pillars of the Coronado Bridge Barrio Logan Art Crawl: Each second Saturday, this lively neighborhood event opens gallery doors and offers live music
To Eat Salud (2196 Logan Ave.): Notorious for its street tacos and micheladas, this space is heavily decorated with art signifying low-rider culture Barrio Dogg (2236 Logan Ave.) serves craft hot dogs and micheladas in a variety of creative flavor combinations Northgate Market (1950 Main St.): This grocery chain carries all the Mexico-imported ingredients desired for an authentic homemade meal, including a tortilleria, carniceria and more
Barrio Dogg
To Drink Border X Brewing (2181 Logan Ave.): An upbeat taproom serving its own craft beers, which feature MexicanAmerican flavors and names Iron Fist Brewing (1985 National Ave.): This familyowned, centrally-located tasting room shows off views of the Coronado Bridge Alta Brewing (1983 Julian Ave.): While this brew house is technically in Logan Heights, its beers are just a short, worthwhile walk away
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Border X Brewing
downtown/gaslamp
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owntown is marked by the (in)famous Gaslamp Quarter, a historical, 16-block radius brimming with entertainment and dining options. Once a prickly red light district, the neighborhood has evolved into the city’s tourism centerpiece. Now, dozens of bars, nightclubs and premium eateries are tucked between skyscrapers and inside Victorianera architecture. For both nightlife newbies and veteran drinkers, this is the district for a big night out.
To Do See a live performance at Balboa Theatre (868 Fourth Ave.), Copley Symphony Hall (750 B St.) or Civic Theatre (1100 Third Ave.) Theatre Box (701 Fifth Ave.): An entertainment and dining complex housing a luxury dine-in cinema, supersized candy story, over-the-top restaurant and intimate lounge by the creators of TCL Chinese Theatres and Sugar Factory Cafe Sevilla Listen to live music, enjoy a flamenco dinner show and take dance lessons to become an expert at Spanish salsa, Bachata and more at Cafe Sevilla (353 Fifth Ave.)
To Eat Gaslamp Strip Club (340 Fifth Ave.): This punny, 21-andover steakhouse has a full bar and allows diners to grill their own cuts Donut Bar (631 B St.): A specialty donut shop offering extraordinary flavors and vegan options so popular, it’s necessary to arrive early before they sell out Barley Mash (600 Fifth Ave.): This eatery sits in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter serving hearty American cuisine
Donut Bar
To Drink Vin de Syrah (901 Fifth Ave.) An upscale wine lounge with an aesthetic roughly based on Alice in Wonderland with hidden doors and throne-like chairs Prohibition (548 Fifth Ave.): A dark and intimate craft cocktail bar featuring live jazz bands in a 1920s-inspired atmosphere The Field Irish Pub (544 Fifth Ave.): A pub that specializes in Irish beers, beer mixers, whiskeys, scotch malts and cocktails, as well as traditional live music acts
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Vin de Syrah
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hillcrest
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ince 1993, Hillcrest has hosted San Diego Pride week every summer, but the historically LGBTQ neighborhood is a hub of acceptance year-round. The come-asyou-are attitude attracts people of all shapes, colors and preferences to the community. The retro red and white landmark sign hanging over University and Fifth Avenues marks the neighborhood’s core. Beneath it, couples stroll hand in hand and pride stands strong.
To Do Hillcrest Cinema (3965 Fifth Ave.): In addition to new releases, this movie house’s repertoire includes independent, foreign and avant-garde films Urban Mo’s (308 University Ave.): Hit this wildly popular gay bar for weekly entertainment, such as drag shows, game nights, dance lessons and more Hillcrest Cinema Martinis Above Fourth (3940 Fourth Ave.): Catch dinner and a show at this casual supper club, specializing in American cuisine, martinis and cabaret-style entertainment
To Eat Inside Out (1642 University Ave.): A relatively new arrival in Hillcrest’s restaurant scene, Inside Out offers upscale plates in a chic atmosphere with poolside bar Snooze (3940 Fifth Ave.) This bright brunch spot serves decadent eggs benedicts and pancake stacks, plus plenty of boozy morning cocktails Inside Out BO-Beau Kitchen (1027 University Ave.): A Frenchinspired bistro offering classics, such as boeuf bourguignon, steak frites and more, in an indoor-outdoor space.
To Drink Gossip Grill (1220 University Ave.): This high-energy watering hole is the only lesbian bar in town and serves female-inspired cocktails to match Caché (1027 University Ave.): A speakeasy hidden inside Bo-Beau Kitchen, Caché mimics Parisian elegance with skylights, live trees and antique chandeliers. Uptown Tavern (1236 University Ave.): A high-energy neighborhood hangout with daily specials and a heated patio
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Caché
kearny mesa
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earny Mesa might not be much of a looker, but its growing culinary reputation warrants recognition and visitation. Japanese ramen restaurants, Thai dessert shops and Korean karaoke bars crowd strip malls on Convoy from Dagget Street to Engineer Road, bustling with families and college students until near-midnight.
To Do Belt out classics sans shame in the private karaoke rooms at Min Sok Chon (4620 Convoy St.) and Karaoke 101 (7578 Clairemont Mesa Blvd.) Aqua Day Spa (4637 Convoy St.): Relax in red clay rooms and jacuzzis or try a traditional Korean exfoliating treatment Stop by Boba Bar & Desserts (4619 Convoy St.), Iceskimo Aqua Day Spa (4609 Convoy St.) and Bing Haus (4425 Convoy St.) for Hong Kong, Taiwan and Thailand’s unconventional takes on ice cream
To Eat Manna BBQ (4428 Convoy St. #210): In typical Korean barbeque fashion, this restaurant provides grills for customers to cook their own orders Dumpling Inn (4625 Convoy St.): This spacious eatery surpasses strip mall expectations with its signature dumplings and Chinese cuisine Bonchon (4690 Convoy St.): Try this fast-casual restaurant Manna BBQ for its signature Korean fried chicken, or other Korean-style specialties, such as bibimbap, pork buns and more
To Drink Common Theory Public House (4805 Convoy St.): This casual brew house taps more than 30 kegs and serves Asian-influenced pub food, plus it has a new speakeasy called Realm of the 52 Remedies Kilowatt Brewing (7576 Clairemont Mesa Blvd.): This microbrewery features exotically flavored small batch beers and psychedelic-leaning decor HIVE (4428 Convoy St. #100): This warehouse-like venue, with its deejayed dance floor, full bar and karaoke rooms, is the closest thing to a neighborhood club
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Common Theory Public House
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la jolla
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ften considered the “Crown Jewel of the California Coastline,” La Jolla’s seaside village has inspired artists, Hollywood’s elite, locals and travelers in sunshine and style for decades. From the crashing waves to the award-winning culinary creations, La Jolla sparkles with sights and attractions in a picturesque village where everything is immersed in a casual, relaxed luxury. Strolling through the village guarantees a perfect combination of luxury and leisure with seaside serenity. Only minutes from downtown, La Jolla promises a sun-kissed Southern California experience like no other.
To Do Torrey Pines Gliderport (2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Drive): Paraglide over the ocean or watch others take flight from this vista point The Conrad (7600 Fay Ave.) Opening in April 2019, The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center is the new heart of cultural, arts education, and community events in La Jolla. The Conrad is the permanent home of La Jolla Music Society and will host world-class performances presented by LJMS as well as other San Diego arts La Jolla Shores presenters. Kayaking and snorkeling at La Jolla Shores: Sign up for a tour or rent gear from local shops to adventure through the sea-carved caves and to spot marine life
To Eat Sugar and Scribe (7660 Fay Avenue) - Home of Food Network Champion Chef Maeve, Sugar & Scribe is inspired by the classic bakeries of the world. Sophisticated and relaxed, the space includes sit-down dining, bakery counter, coffee bar and dog-friendly patio. Puesto (1026 Wall St.) Award winning, authentic and unique artisanal takes on tacos, bowls & salads in a bright & breezy brick space. Café la Rue (1132 Prospect St.) Located at the historic La Valencia Puesto Hotel this vibrant bistro with terrazzo floors, venetian plaster ceilings and a large bar is graced by paintings of the original 1947 café. Sip classic cocktails, like The Pink Lady or Massena Old Fashion, and enjoy the people watching on the outdoor patio.
To Drink The Spot La Jolla (1005 Prospect St.): Skip the surrounding high-end options for this casual tavern Karl Strauss Brewing Company (1044 Wall St.): One of San Diego’s most-well known brewery chains offers house-made draft George’s at the Cove (1250 Prospect St.): A multi-level, oceanfront venue that attracts a ritzy crowd with seafood, cocktails and stunning views 20 | San Diego Go Guide 2019
George’s at the Cove
little italy
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ittle Italy San Diego was once the world’s leading tuna industry. In the ‘20s, thousands of Italian families relocated here for related jobs, and over time, the cultures inevitably blended into an Americanized slice of Sicily. The neighborhood has since become a culinary hotspot, attracting famous chefs and devout foodies to try experimental and traditional takes on international cuisine.
To Do The Mercato: Every Saturday on W. Cedar Street between Kettner Boulevard and Front Street, more than 175 vendors set up shop for this scenic farmers market Amici Park (1660 Union St): Practice or watch seasoned veterans play a game of bocce ball on these courts Waterfront Park (1600 Pacific Hwy): Picnic, splash in the fountains or attend food, beer and music festivals on these bay-adjacent lawns
Waterfront Park
To Eat Mona Lisa (2061 India St.): A gourmet Italian deli and market with delectable sandwiches, authentic treats and an attached restaurant The Crack Shack (2266 Kettner Blvd.): This fast-casual restaurant gives fried chicken an innovative upgrade, plus al fresco seating, a full bar and games The Crack Shack Herb & Wood (2210 Kettner Blvd.): A refined outdoorindoor restaurant featuring a sprawling craft cocktail bar and wood-fired, new American plates Juniper & Ivy (2228 Kettner Blvd.): This upscale and artful restaurant serves seasonal New American cuisine and is repeatedly ranked among the city’s best bites
To Drink Waterfront Bar & Grill (2044 Kettner Blvd.): This 1993 institution stands out among its neighbors for affordable prices, pub food and loud crowds King & Queen Cantina (1490 Kettner Blvd.): Outfitted with Dia de los Muerto decor, this colorful cantina offers an extensive list of craft Mexican cocktails and fare Craft & Commerce (675 W Beech St.): An open-air bar known for its craft cocktails and taxidermy décor, but also the attached tiki-style speakeasy, False Idol
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King & Queen Cantina
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north park
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orth Park is an urban neighborhood filled with locally owned boutiques, eclectic bars and live music venues. The burg has become one of the hippest areas in San Diego with the 30th Street corridor considered an epicenter of the city’s booming craft beer scene.
To Do The Observatory (2891 University Ave.): This 1939 theater-turned-concert hall books big name talent The Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club & Bungalows (2223 El Cajon Blvd.): Visit this historic hotel for a night’s stay, lively pool party, or drink at the lobby bar, where a “Top Gun” scene was filmed Catch locally produced comedy at Finest City Improv (4250 Louisiana St.) or an over-the-top drag show at Lips (3036 El Cajon Blvd.)
The Lafayette Hotel
To Eat Urban Solace (3823 30th St.): This restaurant features gourmet comfort food and a notable portrait of Anchorman’s Ron Burgundy City Tacos (3028 University Ave.): A small taco shop that packs big flavor into their elevated street tacos The Mission (2801 University Ave.): An ever-popular brunch location known to fuse Asian and Latin ingredients
City Tacos
To Drink Coin Op (3926 30th St.): This bar throws it back to the heyday of arcades, featuring games both new and classic Bar Pink (3829 30th St.): A cash-only cocktail bar dripping in pink accents and offering live music Mike Hess Brewing (3812 Grim Ave.): A centrally-located tasting room that also offers board games, revolving local art shows and more in a brewery setting
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Mike Hess Brewing
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ocean beach
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cean Beach, or OB, embodies the free spirit of San Diego. This eclectic California beach community is famous for its half-mile long fishing pier, OB Street Fair & Chili Cook-Off Festival, OB Oktoberfest, and OB Holiday Parade. Their dog beach, coined “The Original Dog Beach”, is a special place where people and pets, beach lovers and surfers celebrate the spirit of Ocean Beach. Full of independent boutique stores and a diverse range of restaurants, this peaceful town on the edge of the water has something for everyone.
To Do Sunset Cliffs Natural Park (Ladera Street): As the name implies, this coastal overlook is an optimal location to watch the sun sink at day’s end Ocean Beach Pier: This 1,971-foot landmark was constructed in 1966 and is said to be the longest concrete pier on the West Coast OB Playhouse (4944 Newport Ave.): An intimate musical Ocean Beach Pier theatre presenting plays that are produced, directed and choreographed by a local husband and wife
To Eat OB Noodle House (2218 Cable St.) and (4993 Niagara Ave.): Dual locations cook up Asian-inspired cuisine, with the former being the original and the latter emphasizing design Bravo’s (5001 Newport Ave.): This cantina is frequented for people watching, pints of Mexican lagers, tequila and tacos, particularly on Taco Tuesdays when deals are at an OB Noodle House all-time high Wonderland Ocean Pub (5083 Santa Monica Ave.): A laid back sports bar where unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean are the main attraction
To Drink Pacific Shores Cocktail Lounge (4927 Newport Ave.): A dimly-lit, underwater-themed bar with neon accents, strong pours and solid jukebox selections Sunshine Company (5028 Newport Ave.): A sizeable, two-story hangout with pool tables, arcade games and deck with partial ocean views Winston’s Beach Club (1921 Bacon St.): A laid-back, live music venue hosting rock shows, reggae artists and more
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Sunshine Company
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old town
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eginning in 1769 with just a mission and fort, Old Town was California’s first settlement. Over the years, California has preserved the essence of the times by designating much of the area a historic state park. As a result, Old Town caters to a largely tourist population, offering candy stores, Mexican cuisine and other shops in period-correct fashion.
To Do Whaley House (2476 San Diego Ave.): Take a tour of this 1857 Greek Revival style-home and courthouse, which is dubbed the country’s most haunted residence Bazaar Del Mundo (4133 Taylor St.): Shop at this awardwinning outdoor market featuring a collection of stores selling Mexican clothing, decor and more Bazaar Del Mundo Cygnet Theater (4040 Twiggs St.): This playhouse produces a large range of works, from “Cabaret” to Shakespeare
To Eat The culinary experience here isn’t complete without a tortilla made fresh on the street outside Cafe Coyote (2461 San Diego Ave.) or Old Town Cafe (2489 San Diego Ave.) Casa Guadalajara (4105 Taylor St.): A Mexican cantina and patio offering traditional fare and live mariachi music Barra Barra Saloon (4016 Wallace St.): A restaurant and saloon serving Mexican cuisine in a mid-1800s ranch house setting
Casa Guadalajara
To Drink Fred’s Mexican Cafe (2470 San Diego Ave.): This spacious indoor-outdoor restaurant is abuzz most nights of the week, but especially Taco Tuesday El Agave Taqueria (2304 San Diego Ave.): Bottles of fine tequila line the walls of this spot, which offers a more high-end drinking experience than its neighbors Old Town Saloon (2495 San Diego Ave.): This brick cantina plays up a western cowboy theme on the outside, but is a full sports bar inside
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Fred’s Mexican Cafe
pacific beach
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acific Beach is a shorefront neighborhood that’s filled with local collegiate students, tourists and retirees. The area’s laid-back vibe fuels a party-hard mindset that isn’t limited to the weekend. PB, as the locals call it, caters to a youthful demographic with plenty of budget-friendly drinking holes and restaurants with ocean views.
To Do Mission Bay Aquatic Center (1001 Santa Clara Place): Rent stand-up paddle boards, sail boats, kayaks and other water sports equipment to take out on the bay Kate Sessions Park (5115 Soledad Road): This northern PB park and vista point overlooks both Mission Bay and San Diego Bay, as well as the downtown skyline Tourmaline Surf Park: Pacific Beach’s northernmost stretch of sand, known to be a surfer’s paradise
Mission Bay Aquatic Center
To Eat Board & Brew (4516 Mission Blvd.): This sandwich shop first opened in Del Mar and has since expanded throughout Southern California to share its signature sammies and secret sauce Dirty Birds (4565 Mission Blvd.): With more than 37 wing sauces, Dirty Birds is often touted as the best wing shop in town by both locals and media Waterbar (4325 Ocean Blvd.): This new addition to the boardwalk offers sea fare and sweeping ocean views
Dirty Birds
To Drink Silver Fox (1833 Garnet Ave.): Born in the ‘80s, this dive bar has pinball, pool tables and happy hour at 6 a.m. PB Shore Club (4343 Ocean Blvd.): This boardwalk spot is notorious for a rowdy crowd and Red Bull vodka slushies. JRDN (723 Felspar St.): An upscale beachfront restaurant/ bar combo with pristine views
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JRDN
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point loma
H
istorically, Point Loma’s peninsula marks the landing point of the first European settler, Juan Cabrillo, in 1542. As a result, the burg is dotted with parks dedicated to the early settler, including the Cabrillo National Monument. Point Loma was also home to a Naval Training Center until in 2000 when its barracks became a food and arts destination called Liberty Station. This center is a main attraction for tourists and locals alike, as is the region’s potential for outdoor activity.
To Do Pechanga Arena (3500 Sports Arena Blvd.): This iconic 1966 concert venue has hosted big-name artists and is also home to the San Diego Gulls hockey team Browse the Women’s Museum of California (2730 Historic Decatur Road #103) and the New Americans Museum (2825 Dewey Road #10), which historicizes U.S. immigration Pechanga Arena Enjoy the great outdoors by tide pooling at Cabrillo National Monument (1800 Cabrillo Memorial Drive) or fishing at Shelter Island Pier (1776 Shelter Island Drive).
To Eat Liberty Public Market (2820 Historic Decatur Road): San Diego’s take on New York’s Chelsea Market, with booths of local food vendors inside a former Navy barrack Northside Shack (12155 N. Rosecrans St.): Swing by here for fresh-pressed juices, acai bowls, teas, tonics and more health-conscious treats Northside Shack Coasterra (880 Harbor Island Drive): With unparalleled views of the bay and downtown skyline, this is elegant Mexican cuisine
To Drink Modern Times Lomaland Fermentorium (3725 Greenwood St.): A popular tasting room known for its funky decorum, invested staff and housemade brews Bali Hai (2230 Shelter Island Drive): A spacious Polynesian restaurant that serves famously hard-hitting mai tai’s and other island-inspired cocktails Humphrey’s Restaurant (2241 Shelter Island Drive): Sip a drink bayside while catching a more intimate concert
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Humphrey’s Restaurant
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south park/golden hill
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outh Park and Golden Hill are both part of the Greater Golden Hill area, but the two boroughs have stylistically grown apart since the ‘80s. South Park reflects a quaint, family-friendly vibe with dessert parlors and relaxed pubs at the intersection of Juniper, 30th and Fern Streets. Meanwhile, Golden Hill boasts colorful Victorian and Colonial Revival architecture, authentic Mexican food joints and unembellished shops that converge at Twenty-fifth Street and Broadway.
To Do Hike the urban trails carved into Switzer Canyon (2800 Maple St.) and Juniper Canyon (Gregory Street) World-famous street artists have left their mark here. Stroll around to spot murals by the likes of Persue, Shepard Fairey and Kreashun South Park Walkabout: A quarterly neighborhood event where live entertainment takes over the streets and shops offer deals and complimentary treats
South Park Walkabout
To Eat Station Tavern (2204 Fern St.): This open-air restaurant provides a play area for the kids and comfort food for the whole family Pizzeria Luigi (1137 25th St.): With a menu full of New York-style pies and craft beer, this spot consistently vies for the ‘best pizzeria’ title Station Tavern Turf Supper Club (1116 25th St.): Customers grill up their own cuts at this unconventional steakhouse and cocktail lounge
To Drink The Rose Wine Bar and Bottle Shop (2219 30th St.): This neighborhood wine bar, housed within a historic former grocery building, pours organically sourced varietals Whistle Stop (2236 Fern St.): A cash-only dive bar with a loyal crowd, a smoking patio and a multitude of hosted events, ranging from live music to literature readings Kindred (1503 30th St.): Aside from serving acclaimed craft cocktails and vegan fare, this bar’s eccentric design is an enticing mash-up of romance and goth
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Whistle Stop
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north county
T
he neighborhoods along Highway 101 were often escapist destinations for 1920s Hollywood elite, cruising between Los Angeles and Mexico by road or rail. Now, Del Mar is home to a racetrack and the San Diego County Fair, and Encinitas has internationally renowned surf spots. Both of these beachside towns, as well as Oceanside, Cardiff-bythe-Sea and Carlsbad, have a permanent sense of tranquility that’s fueled by nature, wellness centers and more.
To Do Visit reputable galleries, such as A Ship in the Woods (3007 Felicita Road), California Center for the Arts (340 N Escondido Blvd.) and Oceanside Museum of Art (704 Pier View Way) San Diego Botanic Garden (230 Quail Gardens Drive): A true hidden gem of the region with four miles of trails and acres of landscaped greenery San Diego Botanic Garden Del Mar Racetrack (2260 Jimmy Durante Boulevard): Place a few bets during racing season and stay for an evening concert
To Eat Le Papagayo (1002 N Coast Hwy 101): This sit-down restaurant gracefully blends Mediterranean and Latin recipes Pacific Coast Grill (2526 S Coast Hwy 101): Take in waterfront views and order from a sushi and seafood-forward menu Señor Grubby’s (377 Carlsbad Village Drive): Located just blocks from the beach, this Carlsbad-based restaurant serves fast casual Mexican fare
Señor Grubby’s
To Drink Belly Up Tavern (143 S Cedros Ave.): An intimate live music venue with big-name talent and walls showcasing notable band posters The Compass (300 Carlsbad Village Drive #202): An eatery and bar with unique cocktails and a long tap list Campfire (2725 State St.): A highly respected cocktail bar and restaurant that’s decorated in a cozy outdoor theme
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The Compass
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east county
E
ast County’s vastness allows for variety. The region is mountainous with access to multiple large parklands for hiking, but also a short drive to the desert. The population is diverse as well, with authentic ethnic cuisine offered at restaurants opened by first-generation immigrants. This suburbia results in family-focused vibes and a slower pace of life than in the city.
To Do Mission Trails Regional Park (1 Father Junipero Serra Trail): Explore 5,800 acres of open land, which include a golf course and Lake Murray Mt. Helix Park (4905 Mt Helix Drive): Situated on a purveying vista point, this park has an amphitheater that hosts plays and lectures Day trip to the city of Julian for apple picking, pies and gold mines
Mt. Helix Park
To Eat Tortilla N Taco Factory (130 S Mollison Ave.): A casual yet colorful counter-service shop selling elevated street tacos on fresh-made tortillas D.Z. Akin’s (6930 Alvarado Rd.): A New York-style Jewish deli, bakery and restaurant specializing in overstuffed sammies, matzo ball soup and other homestyle classics Corbin’s Q (6548 El Cajon Blvd.): A locally-owned barbecue joint with beers on tap, Santa Maria-style BBQ and all the desired fixings
Tacos N Tortilla Factory
To Drink Riviera Supper Club and Turquoise Room (7777 University Ave.): A cocktail bar that’s been around for more than 50 years and offers free live music Next Door Craft Beer & Wine Bar (7235 El Cajon Blvd.): Decorated in crisp whites and woods, this spot rotates wines from all over the world Effin’s Pub Effin’s Pub (6164 El Cajon Blvd.): This decidedly unpretentious sports bar is a mainstay for San Diego State University students looking for deals on pints and wells
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south bay
L
ocated near the border, the cultural line between San Diego and Tijuana begins to blur in the South Bay. There is a positively impressive amount of fresh and authentic Mexican cuisine available at affordable price points and plenty of cerveza to go around. Chula Vista’s craft beer scene in particular has taken off in the past few years, while Imperial Beach is a prime family getaway with colorful surroundings and sandy shores.
To Do South Bay Theater and Drive In (2170 Coronado Ave.): Cozy up in the car and catch a double feature of current films at this old-school drive-in Border Field State Park (1500 Monument Road): See where Mexico and America meet along the coastline Mattress Firm Amphitheatre (2050 Entertainment Cir.): Live Nation books international musical talent for this sizeable outdoor amphitheatre
Border Field State Park
To Eat TJ Oyster Bar (4410 Bonita Road): The fish tacos here stand out most among both classic and innovative Mexican seafare Grind House (260 Third Ave.): Coffee house by day, cafe by night, this versatile spot serves everything from vegan pastries and lattes to smoked pork cuban sandwiches and beer Grind House Aqui Es Texcoco (1043 Broadway): Channeling the rich flavors and methods of Texcoco cuisine, this is an authentic choice for slow-roasted Barbacoa-style lamb
To Drink Chula Vista Brewing (294 Third Ave.): Set in a spacious warehouse, this brewery is respected within the locally burgeoning craft scene Bay Bridge Brewing (688 Marsat Court): A microbrewery churning out balanced beers, some of which are tributes to San Diego with names such as the Bonita Blonde, Palomar Pale Ale and Star of India IPA Chula Vista Brewery Novo Brazil (901 Lane Ave #100): A brewery that stands out for the Brazilian culture evident in its atmosphere and beers
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annual events Padres Home Opener Petco Park, 100 Park Blvd., Downtown March 28, 2019 to September 26, 2019 The San Diego Padres’ first game of the season is a celebration of local baseball fandom and takes place in a state-of-the art stadium in the heart of Downtown. mlb.com/padres
San Diego County Fair Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar May 31, 2019 to July 4, 2019 A regional celebration of over-the-top fair food, family-friendly rides and big-name concerts at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. sdfair.com
San Diego Pride Hillcrest, San Diego July 12, 2019 to July 14, 2019 A weekend-long celebration of diversity, inclusion and the LGBTQ+ community with a 5K, parade, concerts and more sdpride.org
San Diego Comic Con San Diego Convention Center, 111 W. Harbor Drive, Downtown July 18, 2019 to July 21, 2019 Cosplayers, movie buffs and comic book fanatics gather to get the scoop on upcoming releases and to hear panel discussions by renowned directors, actors and other creatives. comic-con.org
Kaaboo Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar 2019 Date TBD A high-end music festival that draws big names in rock, reggae and other genres, plus comedy performances and art displays. kaboodelmar.com
San Diego Bay Wine and Food Festival Embarcadero Marina Park North, 400 Kettner Blvd., Downtown Nov. 17, 2019 to Nov. 24, 2019 A week-long bay-side festival featuring the city’s best in food and wine with dozens of events, acclaimed chefs, award-winning wineries and more. sandiegowineclassic.com
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