San Diego doesn’t have the greatest eating, at least in the tourist-heavy areas of the Gaslamp and closer to downtown. But drive 10 to 15 minutes north of downtown, around Convoy Street or Clairemont Mesa, and you’ll be confronted with more Japanese, Korean and Thai joints than you could ever try in a week. My … Continued
Ironside offers fresh seafood and inventive cocktails in a hip location with quirky decor. It’s located near Little Italy, but there’s nothing cliché about the menu. Reminds me of cooler, updated Shaw’s Crab House (Chicago) meets Island Creek Oyster Bar (Boston). Can be pretty loud at night, just fyi. Ironside Fish and Oyster 1654 India … Continued
A laid-back joint with locations throughout San Diego, Oscar’s serves up modern takes on Mexican seafood classics, and now makes their tortillas from scratch – a rarity among San Diego taco joints. In fact, everything is made from scratch, and the high turnover insures a fresh product. I make a point to visit every time … Continued
This downtown San Diego juice bar caters to the busy, health-conscious individual with a selection of bright, fresh smoothies, juices, yogurts, wraps, and salads made from all-natural, locally sourced ingredients. I liked it for a quick, healthy breakfast downtown, and they also had pitaya (dragon fruit) which is pretty uncommon. Myxologie Juice Bar 445 10th … Continued
Located in the lavish Rancho Valencia Resort, the polo themed Pony Room offers rustic American cuisine and a wide selection of craft beers and tequilas along with unique signature cocktails. It’s not earth-shattering cuisine, but if you have parents in tow, or semi-picky eaters, it’s perfect – and safe. Lots of plastic surgery in the … Continued
This San Diego-based chain offers Mexican/West Coast fare at wallet-friendly prices. Their signature Original Fish Taco is the king of chain restaurant fish tacos. Rubio started the trend, and continues to dominate on the West Coast. This store was his first, on E. Mission Bay Dr. Rubio’s 4504 E Mission Bay Dr, San Diego, CA … Continued
George’s at the Cove offers renowned chef Trey Foshee’s fresh, California Modern cuisine in an elegant atmosphere with stunning ocean views. Located in La Jolla, just north of San Diego. Check out his “deconstructed” fish taco. George’s at the Cove 1250 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037; (858) 454-4244
This popular restaurant with several locations in the San Diego area specializes in Tijuana-style seafood dishes. They also have smoked tuna tacos, which are kind of a rare breed in the area. TJ Oyster Bar 4246 Bonita Rd, Bonita, CA 91902; (619) 267-4577
This family-owned food truck whips up authentic Mexican seafood from fresh ingredients. It’s about 20 minutes south of downtown San Diego, located in a nondescript parking lot next to some train tracks, but it’s stellar. Be sure to ask for the consommé while you wait for your order. Mariscos El Pescador 1008 Industrial Blvd, Chula … Continued
Fat Fish Cantina combines the best of SoCal and Mexican cuisine in its modern dishes and inventive margaritas; located in a rustic chic location near the beach. Fat Fish Cantina 4474 Mission Blvd., San Diego, CA 92109; (858) 490-2877
This modern Japanese eatery specializes in ramen and yakitori paired with beer, sake, and soju. It’s about a 20 minute drive from downtown, but worth it if you have the time (and car). Yakudori Yakitori 4898 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111; (858) 268-2888