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$ | Normal Heights |
There's almost no combination on earth as satisfying as pizza and beer—which just happen to be Blind Lady's specialties. The old-world-style pizzas are topped with organic ingredients, like house-made chorizo and avocado, which offer an excellent complement to their extensive beer selection, which is updated on their chalkboard daily. Just be patient waiting for a seat at the popular neighborhood spot, which is decorated with upcycled materials such as reclaimed wood floors and glass cases of vintage beer cans.
3416 Adams Ave., San Diego, California, 92116, USA
Known For
- Spicy chorizo pizza with avocado
- Crispy Belgian frites
- House-brewed craft beer
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: No lunch Mon.--Wed.
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For Paris-perfect cakes and tarts embellished California-style with fresh flowers, head to this sleek, serene branch of Karen Krasne’s pastry shop and café. The space with soaring ceilings hosts breakfasts, lunches, and light dinners, accompanied by a wide selection of teas, coffee, organic wines, and craft beers. For those who don’t want to start with dessert, there are sandwiches, soups, salads, and artisanal cheeses, plus a kids' menu of grilled cheese or free-range turkey served on local bread. When it’s time to satisfy your sweet tooth, try a slice of passion fruit ricotta cake, a mini-banana cream pie, or helping of croissant bread pudding. The original shop near Balboa Park, at 2870 4th Avenue, serves only desserts, coffees, and teas.
1430 Union St., San Diego, California, 92101, USA
Known For
- Blueberry coffee cake for breakfast
- Chocolate dulce de leche cake
- House-made dips including onion dip and Parmesan pesto
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Reservations not accepted
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$ | Hillcrest |
This café lives up to its name, which explains why there's often a line, despite the ample seating. Paris-trained Karen Krasne turns out award-winning cakes, tortes, and pastries of exceptional beauty, while the Japanese-theme patio invites you to linger over yet another coffee drink.
2870 4th Ave., San Diego, California, 92103, USA
Known For
- Rotating cheese selections
- Flower-topped made-in-house chocolate cakes
- Vegan and gluten-free cookies
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$ | Liberty Station |
The city's former Naval Training Center is home to more than 30 vendors so even the pickiest of diners will be pleased. Options include tacos and quesadillas at Cecilia's Taqueria; fried rice, pad Thai, and curries at Mama Made Thai; lavender lattes from Westbean Coffee Roasters; fried chicken and fries from Fluster Cluck; sweet and savory crepes from Olala; more than a dozen Argentinean empanadas at Paraná; and croissants, éclairs, and macarons at Le Parfait Paris. There are a few communal tables indoors, but the best seating is the kid- and dog-friendly outdoor patio, outfitted with Adirondack chairs and market lights. Not all vendors are open for breakfast.
2820 Historic Decatur Rd., San Diego, California, 92106, USA
Known For
- Cuisines from around the world
- Lively kid- and dog-friendly patio
- The best regional foods under one roof
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$ | La Jolla |
The desserts are magnificent at this small, charming shop in operation for nearly 50 years, where dessertier Michele Coulon confects wonders, using organic produce and imported chocolate. Snack on cookies, cupcakes, brownies, chocolate-dipped strawberries, and mini-desserts. But this is not just a place for dessert: lunch is served Tuesday through Saturday (the store is open 9 am to 3 pm), and the simple menu includes quiche and salads. Other irresistible treats found here are a chocolate-lovers’ Torte Lion Belge, pear-frangipane tart, and Marjolaine Torte with layers of meringue, chocolate ganache, and buttercream.
7556 Fay Ave., San Diego, California, 92037, USA
Known For
- Instagram-worthy presentation
- The buttercream- and berry-filled Gateau Aileen
- Gluten-free items usually are available
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Sun. and Mon. No dinner, Reservations not accepted
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Recommended Fodor’s Video
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$ | University Heights |
Employing the motto "If your grandmother wouldn't bake with it, we won't either," Blackmarket Bakery emphasizes that all its creations are made from scratch, and the proof is in the tasting. Its pastry case is full of buttercream-frosted cakes, drop cookies, and other fresh-baked goodies, in addition to breakfast sandwiches and vegan pastries.
4686 30th St., San Diego, California, 92116, USA
Known For
- Vegan cookies
- Cookie Monster bread pudding
- Handmade marshmallows
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A classic diner with bar seating in a circle, Clayton's is a great lunch or breakfast spot with a menu that ranges from classic American fare to Mexican-inspired dishes like the popular breakfast burrito. Just don't forget dessert!
979 Orange Ave., San Diego, California, 92118, USA
Known For
- Bottomless coffee
- Breakfast burrito
- Gooey cinnamon roll sundae
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$ | North Park |
The exterior of Communal Coffee reads "Coffee + Flowers," and though that's not the name of the café, it's also not inaccurate—you actually can pick up a bouquet while you're there. But while there's plenty to keep patrons occupied—including a curated selection of housewares, books, and chocolates—the main attraction is still the fresh-brewed coffee and flaky, buttery pastries.
2335 University Ave., San Diego, California, 92104, USA
Known For
- French press coffee
- Buttery chocolate croissants
- Fresh-cut flowers
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$ | South Park |
There are six spots across San Diego including this one on the corner of Juniper and Fern in the heart of South Park. Open daily, this is the place to come for coffee, hot or iced, and a special treat---a scoop of one of the innovative flavors from Mutual Friend Ice Cream like lemon almond cake with a raspberry swirl or haupia haole pie.
3004 Juniper St., San Diego, California, 92104, USA
Known For
- Full coffee service until 5:30 pm daily
- Mutual Friend Ice Cream
- Vegan mini-doughnuts
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$ | South Park |
This local bistro and chocolatier sells flavored bars, truffles, cupcakes, and many other confections, as well as breakfast favorites (buttermilk pancakes or avocado Benedict) and mains that are good at any point in the day—pulled pork and grits or mascarpone-stuffed meatballs—plus beer and wine. The owner of this popular brunch spot won a special chocolate episode of Food Network’s Guy’s Grocery Games in 2017.
2145 Fern St., San Diego, California, 92104, USA
Known For
- Build-your-own chocolate bar nights
- There's a little bit of vanilla, caramel, or cacao worked into every dish
- Add a chocolate pairing to your glass of wine for $1
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: No dinner Sun.
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$ | Old Town |
If traveling back in time has left you tired and hungry, Old Town's Fiesta de Reyes has several options for a quick recharge. Old Town Jerky and Root Beer offers a good selection of snacks, fresh lemonade, and, of course, jerky and root beer. If you're with kids, consider Barra Barra Saloon where the tequila flows and kids eat free with a matching adult, and if you're visiting between Friday and Sunday, look for the booth marked Street Tacos for a quick meal.
4016 Wallace St., San Diego, California, 92110, USA
Known For
- Good place to grab a quick bite
- Kid-friendly
- Fun shopping options
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$$$ | Mission Hills |
Housed inside a converted Ford dealership that dates back to the '40s, Fort Oak is a haven for sophisticated carnivores and pescatarians alike. Chef Brad Wise's menu leans heavily on wood-fired fish, like the whole branzino, as well as aged steaks, Duroc pork, and fried chicken. Fort Oak leans into the building's unique history, with remnants of the former car dealer and garage touched up on the outside wall, but inside is a chic and modern bistro with a sleek, u-shape bar at the center where patrons can sample their menu of cocktails named for vintage cars.
1011 Ft. Stockton Dr., San Diego, California, 92103, USA
Known For
- 40-day aged rib-eye steak
- Hearth grilled branzino
- Elegant yet kitschy classic automotive design elements
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Closed Tues.
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$ | Mission Hills |
A youthful crowd gathers here for authentic Italian ice cream, espresso, and a second-floor view of the Downtown skyline. The place is usually occupied by regulars who stay for hours at a time.
3753 India St., San Diego, California, 92103, USA
Known For
- Smooth and creamy gelato made with natural flavors
- Affogato (espresso and gelato)
- House-made chai
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$$ | |
A short walk up a flight of stairs transports diners into old Havana as Hemingway once knew it. True to its name, this still-young restaurant specializes in classic Cuban fare, such as empanadas, croquettes, and, of course, the Cubano sandwich.
548 5th Ave., San Diego, California, 92101, USA
Known For
- Cubano sandwich with fresh Cuban bread
- Strong yet refreshing daiquiris and mojitos
- Latin jazz performers and salsa dancing
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$ | |
While it carries an extensive selection of craft beers, wine, and spirits, High Tide Bottle Shop is a lot more than a liquor store. The extensive menu of signature pizzas, wraps, sandwiches, wings, and more are worth savoring at one of its outdoor tables or carrying out for a picnic on the beach.
933 Orange Ave., San Diego, California, 92118, USA
Known For
- More than 20 different signature pizzas
- Dry-rub wings
- An extensive collection of bottled local craft beers
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$ | Pacific Beach |
On an iconic corner in the heart of Pacific Beach, this former Denny's site has been transformed into a multiconcept quick-serve food collective. Breakfast burritos, custom salad bowls, and churro waffles are just some of the tasty selections available at this highly anticipated spot with more in the pipeline. Walk-up windows and plentiful patio seating make this an easy stop any time of day.
4505 Mission Blvd., San Diego, California, 92109, USA
Known For
- Ultraconvenient location
- Nearly round-the-clock food offerings
- Churro waffles---enough said
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: Hrs vary by establishment but range from early morning to very late at night
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For a deliciously sweet pick-me-up, check out the rich ice cream, frozen yogurt, and sorbet made fresh daily on the premises. Dessert nachos made from waffle-cone chips are an unusual addition to an extensive sundae menu. Just look for the statue of Elvis on the sidewalk in front.
1025 Orange Ave., San Diego, California, 92118, USA
Known For
- Daily house-made ice cream, yogurt, and sorbet
- Dessert nachos
- "moopies" sandwiches, with ice cream between two cereal bars
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$$$$ | La Jolla |
This trendy La Jolla restaurant “plays” tribute to the past with its location inside William Kesling’s historic piano showroom where live music still plays during cocktail hour. The casual yet refined menu features dry-aged cheeseburgers, pan-roasted chicken, and unconventional Caesar salads topped with jalapeño rings and Parmesan shavings; be sure to request a side of the creamy coconut rice pilaf. Its corner location offers patio seating as well as a mid-century-meets-tropical-style lounge with a magnificent mural by artist, Eva Struble, and a travertine bar where mixologists pour Oaxacan negronis and the “Ring of Fire,” a spin on the whisky sour. Arrive by 5:30 to hear an hour set of live piano on Wednesday and Sunday and live saxophone on Thursday.
5680 La Jolla Blvd., San Diego, California, 92037, USA
Known For
- Dry-aged beef hamburger with sauce au poivre
- Live music during cocktail hour
- Modern-Cali cuisine
Restaurant Details
Rate Includes: No lunch. Closed Mon. and Tues.
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Two French transplants have brought sleek Parisian style to Downtown San Diego and rows of eclairs, tarts, croissants, colorful macarons, and the aroma of espresso greet patrons as they enter a minimalist space. For something more substantial, look to their menu of crepes, panini, salads, and quiches; caffeinated drinks range from teas and coffee to a sweet lavender honey latte. Take a seat on the patio for a prime view of late-night Gaslamp revelers.
555 G St., San Diego, California, 92101, USA
Known For
- Open until midnight on Friday and Saturday, offering a more low-key postdinner alternative in the neighborhood
- Extensive macaron selection
- Pillow-soft pastries and chocolate-filled breads
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$ | University Heights |
The atmosphere at Pop Pie Co. is fast-casual, but its menu is nothing less than rich, stick-to-your-ribs comfort food. With a menu full of internationally inspired meat and dessert pies and open-air seating at communal tables, the eatery offers either a quick dessert or the satisfaction of a hearty meal without the dining room dress code.
4404 Park Blvd., San Diego, California, 92116, USA
Known For
- Classic chicken potpie
- Salted caramel-apple crumble
- Espresso with house-made sweeteners
