Five New Restaurants To Visit This Weekend

It’s finally Friday, which means it’s almost time to clock-off and get those weekend vibes started. No plans yet? No problem! Eater's here with a handy set of recommendations to assist in your dining destination decision-making. In this regular feature, we'll help you discover recently opened restaurants and uncover new-to-you bars and eateries (plus occasional menu debuts) specializing in everything from Friday happy hour cocktails through to Sunday brunch, so you can make the most of that well-earned downtime.

Wood & Charcoal Cooking: Fireside by The Patio

This indoor/outdoor eatery (the latest addition to the growing stellar culinary lineup at Liberty Station) enjoyed a successful soft-opening debut, and is now officially open for lunch and dinner. Centered round "the artistry of fire inspired fare" the menu covers everything from a smoked half chicken entree, to yakitori skewers made from elk, steak, shrimp and pork belly. Appetizers, salads, flatbreads and assorted sides are all here too, plus a daily chalkboard of shareable suggestions. Cocktails include the barrel-aged Trojan Mule, and the 'smoked' Pineapple Express. 2855 Perry Rd. (619) 432-2100 [Photo: Facebook]

Ramen House: The Whet Noodle

Chef/owner Devin Waite puts his spin on ramen at this "untraditional ramen" house in South Oceanside, where he has developed two signature broths: one is a duck shoyu made with slow-roasted duck meat, the other a hot and sour miso. The menu also features a selection of small plates like spicy squid and baked scallops, plus happy endings including Cravory Cookies. "Social lubricants" comprise sakes, wines, Japanese and local craft beer. Neighbors with The Wrench & Rodent Seabasstro Pub, The Whet Noodle is open 4 - 9 p.m. on Mondays, and 4 - 10 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. 1813 S. Coast Highway (760) 453-2738 [Photo: The Whet Noodle]

Cuisine Avec Amour: Pardon My French Bar & Kitchen

With hearty French-California cuisine and a meticulously crafted boutique wine list, Pardon My French is the newest addition to the Hillcrest dining scene. Kick-start your weekend with an after work craft cocktail and bar snacks – The French Blonde (dry gin, St Germaine, Lillet Blanc, grapefruit juice, lemon bitters), and the Charcuterie/Fromage board are highly recommended. Come Sunday, enjoy bottomless mimosas and brunch bites like leek and truffle quiche, or a croque monsieur on the pup friendly outside patio. 3797 Park Blvd. (619) 546-4328 [Photo: Yelp]

Live Music + Libations: Prohibition

Relaunched last weekend, the Gaslamp's underground speakeasy is back with a brand new cocktail menu thanks to lead bartender Ryan Andrews. Transport yourself to another era and head behind the unassuming door of The Law Offices of Joseph O'Hare Esquire this weekend to sip on some expertly made Prohibition-era drinks. The musical line-up includes Lady Dottie & The Bootleggers (Friday, March 18) and Jason Brown (Saturday, March 19). Open 8 p.m. to 2 p.m. 548 5th Ave. [Photo: Lyudmila Zotova]

Fast-Food Vegan: Plant Power

Loaded with healthier alternatives to 'traditional' fast-food favorites, the GMO-free, mostly organic menu at this new eco-minded OB eatery comprises burgers, fries, wraps, tacos, salads, shakes, smoothies and other tasty treats made entirely without the use of animal products. Must tries include the Wake & ‘Bacon’ Burger, South West Avocado Wrap, and ‘chicken’ tenders. Look out for Plant Power's adorable unofficial mascot, Moby-dog the Wise, too. 2204 Sunset Cliffs Blvd. (619) 450- 6845 [Photo: Facebook]