Eater San Diego - AllThe San Diego Restaurant, Bar, and Nightlife Bloghttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/52682/favicon-32x32.png2024-03-28T11:10:02-07:00https://sandiego.eater.com/rss/index.xml2024-03-28T11:10:02-07:002024-03-28T11:10:02-07:0010 Compelling Brunch Spots to Check Out in San Diego
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<figcaption>Croissants and French chocolat chaud. | <a class="ql-link" href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1039157474297425&set=pb.100046095464380.-2207520000&type=3" target="_blank">Little Frenchie</a></figcaption>
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<p>Have you made your reservations yet?</p> <p id="FBYOjx">Not just relegated to weekends anymore, brunch is a staple of American dining culture and a particularly popular phenomenon in San Diego. Whether you’re hunting for smashed avocado toast with bottomless mimosas or creative egg dishes, this curated list of spots around town will make choosing where to brunch an easy decision with tasty food, strong coffee, and maybe a few cocktails.</p>
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https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/brunch-best-new-restaurants-san-diegoCandice Woo2024-03-28T09:01:37-07:002024-03-28T09:01:37-07:00Five San Diego Food Events to Know About Right Now
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<figcaption>A course at Calypso. | Arlene Ibarra</figcaption>
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<p>From omakase to an Italian chef collab</p> <p id="x1wPzY"><strong>Tableside Omakase From a Veteran Sushi Chef </strong></p>
<p id="WRcIZg">A new pop-up called <a href="https://search.events.com/?_gl=1*jqeldx*_ga*Nzc2MzkyMjA1LjE3MDg5OTQ0MTk.*_ga_D339JNKPWE*MTcxMDc5MjI2Ni4xNC4xLjE3MTA3OTY0MDAuNjAuMC4w*_ga_G828JZ0G3G*MTcxMDc5NDE5Ni4xNi4xLjE3MTA3OTY0MDAuMC4wLjA.#/org/314482">Calypso</a> has begun a residency at downtown’s <a href="https://www.hivesushilounge.com/">Hive Sushi Lounge</a> where chef Ambrely Ouimette is showcasing sushi-making skills earned over a 16-year career at restaurants like Saiko Sushi in Coronado, Matsuhisa in Denver, and Austin’s highly-regarded Sushi|Bar ATX. Offered every other weekend for a limited number of diners, Calypso is a 16-course omakase experience that includes nine courses of nigiri prepared tableside from a custom-built cart. Ouimette says her seasonal menu is playful but still reverential of sushi traditions, incorporating fermentation elements and local seafood where possible. The chef is no longer pursuing a <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/2023/11/15/23962295/hasekura-sushi-bar-omakase-japanese-restaurant-fish-guts-new-opening-barrio-logan-san-diego">previously-announced project in Barrio Logan</a>, although Ouimette tells Eater that she’s still planning to open a sushi bar of her own. </p>
<p id="hxv9jP"><strong>Valle Welcomes Guest Chef Val Cantú of Californios</strong></p>
<p id="U1BixP">Acclaimed chef and owner <a href="https://www.instagram.com/valmcantu/">Val Cantú</a> of the two-Michelin-starred <a href="http://californiossf.com/">Californios</a> in San Francisco will be in the kitchen with <a href="https://valleoceanside.com/">Valle</a> chef Roberto Alcocer on Wednesday, April 10 for a special edition of the Chef’s Friends Dinner Series at the Michelin-starred restaurant in Oceanside. With Valle and Californios representing two or the six Michelin-starred Mexican restaurants in the U.S., the chefs will be collaborating on an eight-course tasting menu experience that reflects their perspective on Mexican cuisine. Limited reservations are available between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. and <a href="https://www.sevenrooms.com/experiences/valleoceanside/chefs-friends-dinner-11043488839">can be booked online</a>. </p>
<p id="UBb90x"><strong>Celebrate the Craft Returns to the Lodge at Torrey Pines </strong></p>
<p id="Uvq2rG">San Diego’s premier annual food event, which matches up some of the city’s best chefs with top area farmers and producers to create dishes to pair with wine or craft beer, is back on April 14. Hosted on the Lodge at Torrey Pines’ lush outdoor terrace from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., with a portion of ticket sales going to the Ecology Center in San Juan Capistrano, <a href="https://lodgetorreypines.ticketsauce.com/e/annual-celebrate-the-craft-2024/tickets?_gl=1*1e0zmm0*_ga*MTI1NjU1NzcwNy4xNzExNjM3MjM5*_ga_QG535LNL5T*MTcxMTYzNzIzOS4xLjAuMTcxMTYzNzI1NS40NC4wLjA.">Celebrate the Craft</a> will feature an impressive lineup of chefs from restaurants like Callie, Kinme, the Fishery, George’s at the Cove, Lionfish, Trust, and the upcoming 31ThirtyOne in North Park. </p>
<p id="aWY4Gy"><strong>A Secret Dinner Series Pop-Up at Surprise Locations</strong></p>
<p id="30ku8G">The Blank Table’s new season kicks off on Thursday, April 18 with a dinner whose menu and unique, off-the-beaten-path location won’t be disclosed to guests until the evening before the gathering. A partnership between Chrome City Creative Studio and Be Saha Hospitality Group (Tahona, Wormwood), <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-blank-table-april-18th-dinner-tickets-800298734057?aff=ebdsoporgprofile">the five-course dinner</a> will feature Be Saha chefs Janina Garay (Addison, Canella) and Carlo Guadarado with wine pairings from sommelier Ricardo Zarate Jr. Joining the team for this edition will be Mario Guerra, owner of Leucadia Co., which operates popular North County spots like Valentina, Moto Deli, and Hamburger Hut. </p>
<p id="Ahk1B0"><strong>Ambrogio by Acquerello Hosts Decorated Italian Chef </strong></p>
<p id="JWU3YQ">The tasting menu-formatted <a href="https://www.ambrogiobyacquerello.com/">Ambrogio by Acquerello</a> is hosting a one-night-only, four-hands dinner on Tuesday, April 30 that will see chef Silvio Salmoraghi of the Michelin-starred Acquerello in Italy, who is the culinary partner of the La Jolla restaurant, share the kitchen with chef Fabio Ugoletti of Mar’Sel at Terranea Resort in the Palos Verdes Peninsula to create a special eight-course menu. Originally from Parma, Italy, Ugoletti has cooked all over the world, from luxury hotels to the once Michelin-starred Al Gallopapa in Italy’s Chianti region and Eataly in Los Angeles. </p>
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https://sandiego.eater.com/2024/3/28/24112015/san-diego-food-events-pop-up-dinners-restaurant-festivalCandice Woo2024-03-26T09:33:45-07:002024-03-26T09:33:45-07:00A Natural Wine Bar Serving Southeast Asian Brunch Is Coming to Convoy
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<figcaption>Mekong</figcaption>
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<p>Mekong Lao & Thai Cuisine is expanding this summer</p> <p id="aCI0DL">After nearly 10 years on Convoy Street, where it was the first Lao restaurant to open in the area, <a href="https://www.mekongthailaorestaurant.com/Home">Mekong Lao & Thai Cuisine</a> is revamping its menu and expanding into an adjacent space that will house a new natural wine bar and all-day cafe. Managing partner Stella Bayphouthongkham is part of a team that took over the Kearny Mesa restaurant in 2021, where they have been working on a revamp that’s included adding specialties like Thai boat noodles and khao piek sen, a Lao chicken noodle soup featuring housemade rice noodles, and extending their beverage options to include a good selection of beer, hard kombucha, and natural wine.</p>
<p id="jt9Trd">Bayphouthongkham, who immigrated to the U.S. from Laos in 1990 and grew up in San Diego, tells Eater that operating the Southeast Asian restaurant has helped her connect closer with her roots and the Lao diaspora.</p>
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<cite>Mekong Lao & Thai Cuisine</cite>
<figcaption>A rendering of the new wine bar and cafe. </figcaption>
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<p id="5WUCvu">Working with Pacific Coast Commercial and CLTVT (Kingfisher, White Rice), Bayphouthongkham and her partners are planning to unveil the expansion by early summer. In addition to doubling Mekong’s current seating capacity, the wine bar and cafe will spotlight Southeast Asian brunch dishes, from a Lao crispy rice salad and spicy long beans served with crunchy pork belly to a Lao version of steak and eggs that will also include housemade Lao sausage and sticky rice. </p>
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<cite>Mekong Lao & Thai Cuisine</cite>
<figcaption>Lao steak and eggs.</figcaption>
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https://sandiego.eater.com/2024/3/26/24112549/mekong-lao-thai-cuisine-restaurant-natural-wine-bar-southeast-asian-food-convoy-district-san-diegoCandice Woo2024-03-25T09:06:22-07:002024-03-25T09:06:22-07:00The Hottest Cocktail Bars in San Diego, March 2024
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<figcaption>A cocktail at Kingfisher. | <a class="ql-link" href="https://www.instagram.com/kellybone?igsh=YTQwZjQ0NmI0OA==" target="_blank">Kelly Bone</a></figcaption>
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<p>The newest drinks in the city can be found at these bars</p> <p id="pBiIIc">As spring arrives, San Diego welcomes a fresh array of cocktails. Bitter grapefruit and rhubarb nestle with abundant botanicals and espresso liqueur, offering unexpected flavor combinations. Bartenders throughout the city elevate cocktail programs by sourcing high-quality spirits, employing culinary techniques, and mindfully utilizing every part of their ingredients, from leaf to rind.</p>
<p id="4voT9I">The Eater Cocktail Heatmap will be updated frequently to highlight new openings or fresh menus that are generating serious buzz around town. </p>
<p id="CIafWO">Know of a cocktail spot with a decent amount of heat that should be added to the list? <a href="http://mailto:sandiego@eater.com/">Send us a note</a>.</p>
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https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/best-cocktail-bars-san-diegoKelly BoneCandice Woo2024-03-22T11:03:03-07:002024-03-22T11:03:03-07:00An Eater’s Guide to San Diego
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<figcaption>Shutterstock</figcaption>
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<p>Unofficial, highly opinionated information about America’s Finest City</p> <div class="c-float-right"><div id="7TEaGi"><div data-anthem-component="aside:12058274"></div></div></div>
<p class="p--has-dropcap p-large-text" id="rgDbkM"><strong>The weather in perpetually sunny</strong> San Diego sometimes overshadows the food, but the spotlight on the local restaurant scene is growing brighter by the day. There is a refreshing diversity of cuisines now available and the city’s chefs are capitalizing on their unparalleled access to a treasure trove of seasonal produce and seafood. Pair that with an industry-leading craft beer and cocktail scene and you’ve got a recipe for a good time. This guide is a primer to all things San Diego dining, from details on the area’s iconic dishes to a breakdown of crucial neighborhoods to know.</p>
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<h2 id="land">Welcome to the Land of Laid-Back Dining</h2>
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<p id="VUuvR0">San Diego’s near-constant temperate climate means year-round outdoor dining, with flip flops and board shorts representing the uniform of choice. Though the city’s general sensibilities lean casual, that doesn’t mean its restaurants don’t cook with serious intention. From kitchens that are steadfastly dedicated to the farm-to-table philosophy to those faithfully translating traditional Asian flavors — <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/best-sushi-restaurants-san-diego">Japanese cuisine</a> is particularly strong here — San Diego is much more than just sandy beaches and sunshine. And many local attractions are highlighted by worthy food: Take in a Padres game to <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/2016/4/1/11339550/san-diego-petco-park-best-food-padres-where-to-eat">sample some of the best ballpark eats in the country</a> or <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/best-valle-de-guadalupe-restaurants-mexico">day trip to Mexico</a> to explore its culinary wonders.</p>
<p id="4Rdfoh">And finally, the food scene at large is taking notice of San Diego: <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/2023/7/18/23799710/michelin-guide-california-new-restaurant-stars-valle-san-diego">the 2023 Michelin Guide California</a> includes the one Michelin-starred Jeune et Jolie, Soichi Sushi, Sushi Tadokoro, and Valle as well as the three Michelin-starred Addison.</p>
<p id="BeccE7">For a quick San Diego snapshot, savor local seafood at <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/7962/the-fishery">the Fishery</a> followed by tacos at <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/42522/salud">Salud</a>, chase it with a pint of beer at <a href="https://blindladyalehouse.com/">Blind Lady Ale House</a> or a margarita at <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/23258/cantina-mayahuel">Cantina Mayahuel</a>, and cap things off with seasonal pie at <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/24707/tribute-pizza">Tribute Pizza</a> and a final nightcap at <a href="https://nobleexperimentsd.com/">Noble Experiment</a>. </p>
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<h2 id="best-maps">Where to Start on Eater San Diego's Top Maps</h2>
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<p id="UMTLb2">Eater has spent lots of time <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/maps">rounding up the best of the best in San Diego</a> to make hunting for food streamlined and easy with special maps in categories that make the most sense to San Diegans. Even still, it’s a lot of information to sift through, so for those who are particularly hungry or short on time, Eater editors have collected the best of the best here, along with listing several food categories that shouldn’t be skipped in San Diego.</p>
<p id="eIqudG"><a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/best-new-san-diego-restaurants-heatmap"><strong>Hot Restaurants</strong></a>: The San Diego heatmap is designed to help make finding a new restaurant a little simpler. Updated monthly, the buzzy list includes Quixote, an Oaxacan hotspot, and <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/5453/marisi-italiano">Marisi</a>, a style hub for pasta and hearth cooking in La Jolla. </p>
<p id="m23Saq"><a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/best-san-diego-restaurants-38"><strong>Essential Restaurants</strong></a>: This guide is composed of 38 essential restaurants that help define San Diego and its cuisine. Updated quarterly, it includes SoCal-Mediterranean standout <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/9799/callie-restaurant">Callie</a>, seafood showcase <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/61968/mabels-gone-fishing">Mabel’s Gone Fishing</a>, and <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/84451/kingfisher">Kingfisher</a>, Eater’s 2022 Restaurant of the Year. </p>
<p id="STsO0m"><a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/best-san-diego-cocktail-bars-heatmap"><strong>Hot Bars</strong></a>: San Diego’s cocktail scene is progressive and diverse, ranging from hidden speakeasies to tropical tiki bar haunts. Updated monthly, the cocktail heatmap includes the multiple bars within North Park’s renovated <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/98209/lafayette-hotel-club">Lafayette Hotel & Club</a>, If you’re looking for a dive bar, <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/best-dive-bars-san-diego">we’ve got you covered too</a>. </p>
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<img alt="An opulent bar inside a hotel." data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/AsFa4T8_VGEwqF0A-MSuMA6Ftu4=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24976926/LobbyBar_LaFayette_KimberlyMotos_6of9_.jpg">
<cite>Kimberly Motos</cite>
<figcaption>The lobby bar at the Lafayette. </figcaption>
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<p id="xq8E1X"><a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/best-taco-shops-san-diego"><strong>Tacos</strong></a>:<strong> </strong>Tacos are king in San Diego, with every local pledging allegiance to their favorite shop and style. The South Bay’s <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/23255/tj-oyster-bar">TJ Oyster Bar</a> is a great spot for sampling Baja-style fish tacos, while <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/7957/aqui-es-texcoco">Aqui es Texcoco</a> specializes in lamb barbacoa.</p>
<p id="aUJVYr"><a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/san-diego-best-top-burger-restaurant"><strong>Burgers</strong></a>: It’s nearly a requirement in San Diego that every dining establishment, from casual pubs to upscale restaurants, must have a burger. Luckily, many of them are worth ordering. Locals swear by the burgers at <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/31807/rocky-s-crown-pub">Rocky’s</a> and <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/13220/hodad-s">Hodad’s</a>.</p>
<p id="daVZLJ"><a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/new-coffee-shops-san-diego-essential"><strong>Coffee</strong></a>: San Diego is all about beverage excellence, be that beer, cocktails, or coffee, with new roasters and third-wave cafes opening regularly. <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/31856/james-coffee-co-2">James Coffee Co</a>. and <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/27320/lofty-coffee-co-little-italy">Lofty Coffee</a> are just two area roasteries that operate their own cafe locations.</p>
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<img alt="A woman gets ready to dig into a plate of Filipino kare kare." data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/wwScsqvxkD0zrboVNVU1K0WKG_g=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/23298834/Animae_HotDish_EaterSD_KimberlyMotos__47_of_53__websize.jpg">
<cite>Kimberly Motos</cite>
<figcaption>Kare kare at Animae.</figcaption>
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<p id="vf8xme"><a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/best-filipino-food-san-diego-restaurants"><strong>Filipino food:</strong></a> Home to the second largest Filipino-American population in the nation, San Diego County offers casual cafeterias as well as traditional Filipino restaurants but more progressive takes on classic dishes can be found at <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/62394/animae-san-diego">Animae</a>, <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/85311/white-rice-bodega">White Rice</a>, and National City food hall <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/2021/10/18/22732672/market-on-8th-new-food-hall-asian-restaurants-opening-national-city-san-diego">Market on 8th.</a></p>
<p id="YDBUf7"><a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/best-japanese-ramen-noodle-restaurant-san-diego"><strong>Ramen</strong></a>:<strong> </strong>Japanese food is one of San Diego’s strong suits and the city’s ramen options are particularly notable. Though all styles are represented, classic tonkotsu reigns supreme; several shops even make their own noodles. Located within Mitsuwa Marketplace, <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/39605/santouka-ramen-mitsuwa-market">Santouka</a> is a local favorite while Ramen Nagi at <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/2023/8/3/23818764/ramen-nagi-japanese-restaurant-tokyo-new-opening-westfield-utc-san-diego">Westfield UTC,</a> is also attracting consistent crowds.</p>
<p id="Iqc4rh"><a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/outdoor-dining-restaurant-patios-eateries-san-diego"><strong>Outdoor Dining</strong></a><strong>: </strong>The enviable weather means that patio dining is a year-round pastime and there’s no shortage of rooftop bars, beer gardens, or charming sidewalk cafes. Dine on farm-to-table cuisine overlooking the Torrey Pines Golf Course on the deck at <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/7958/ar-valentien">A.R. Valentien</a> or take in views of the city skyline and descending planes from the rooftop at <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/13102/bertrand-at-mister-a-s">Mister A’s</a>. </p>
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<div class="c-float-left"><div id="oTwtqy"><h2 id="hoods">San Diego Food Neighborhoods to Know</h2></div></div>
<p id="wb3alL">San Diego has a range of key neighborhoods offering various dining styles and cuisines, from buzzy restaurants to cozy gems to low-key mom-and-pop shops. Get to know each locale’s culinary personality by spending a day or evening dining your way through its restaurants; this list highlights a few of the standout spots in each area.</p>
<h3 id="Bjjiwy">Little Italy</h3>
<p id="rsW3jy">With roots in San Diego’s original Italian community, this waterfront neighborhood has become the <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-bars-food-little-italy-san-diego">epicenter of buzzy restaurants</a> in recent years. Its walkable streets offer everything from casual cafes to celebrity chef showcases. </p>
<p id="urdiSP">Get a taste of the old country at <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/30500/mona-lisa-italian-foods">Mona Lisa Italian Foods</a> or <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/79572/assentis-pasta">Assenti’s Pasta</a>, both of which have been fixtures in the area for decades, supplying handmade pasta, fresh sausages, and stacked sandwiches. </p>
<p id="T27qTQ">Though it still holds a fair number of Italian restaurants, the area has become the home to some of San Diego’s highest-profile restaurants including <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/28425/herb-wood">Herb & Wood</a>, <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/9274/juniper-and-ivy">Juniper and Ivy</a>, <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/9822/kettner-exchange">Kettner Exchange</a>, and <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/27844/born-and-raised">Born and Raised</a>.</p>
<h3 id="YVtWr7">Kearny Mesa</h3>
<div> <figure class="e-image">
<img alt="The bar at Realm of the 52 Remedies has gold accents and hanging racks with bottles of liquor." data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/CH9lXAWxRhvNXLqHbbM_Oz3XAws=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/22726611/DSCF5768.0.jpg">
<cite>Haley Hill Photography</cite>
<figcaption>The bar at Realm of the 52 Remedies</figcaption>
</figure>
</div>
<p id="bq9f3G">Anchored by Convoy Street, this compelling <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/neighborhood/1541/kearny-mesa">neighborhood</a> is the de facto hub for Asian food in San Diego. A diverse crowd frequents its unpretentious restaurants featuring<a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-convoy-street-kearny-mesa"> a wide array of regional cuisines</a>, as well as <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/best-boba-bubble-tea-san-diego">boba tea</a> and <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/best-asian-desserts-cafes-shops-san-diego">dessert shops</a>. </p>
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<p id="qPDzSC"><a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/40299/yakitori-taisho">Yakitori Taisho</a> has become a treasured favorite of local chefs and fans of skewered meat. Artfully grilled at this jewel box-sized restaurant, the menu offers more than just basic skewer options, including every part of the chicken. Its restaurant relation, <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/58289/yakitori-hino">Yakitori Hino</a>, is also a popular industry hangout for expert skewers.</p>
<p id="nCozGT">Down the street, <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/27632/menya-ultra-ramen">Menya Ultra Ramen</a> is the gold standard, known for its bowls of well-balanced broth and springy noodles. <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/2017/12/11/16761732/menya-ultra-ramen-japanese-restaurant-mira-mesa">Eater San Diego’s 2017 Restaurant of the Year</a>, Menya is still drawing crowds to Kearny Mesa, where its Japanese ramen master oversees the daily production of small batches of noodles.</p>
<p id="d2E5yG">Finish off an evening in the neighborhood at <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/46013/realm-of-the-52-remedies">Realm of the 52 Remedies</a>, a hidden-entrance speakeasy that could double as a sexy set from <em>Crazy Rich Asians</em> with its glittering bar and lotus-shaped booths. Aside from a cinematic experience, the cocktail lounge features drinks made with Japanese whisky and Chinese bai jiu and a bar food menu that’s worth making a meal from.</p>
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</figure>
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<h3 id="nrhsID">Barrio Logan</h3>
<p id="poLkHj">Art and food are the main attractions of this <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/barrio-logan-best-restaurants-to-eat-and-drink">vibrant neighborhood</a> close to downtown. Tour the fascinating murals of Chicano Park and browse the area’s boutiques and galleries while checking out one of its well-established Mexican restaurants.</p>
<p id="0mfzws"><a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/42522/salud">Salud Tacos</a> regularly draws crowds for its lineup of tacos served in a colorful space inspired by lowrider car culture while the James Beard-nominated, Latinx-owned-and-operated <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/12970/border-x-brewing-tasting-room">Border X Brewing</a> offers a taste of San Diego’s talents with craft beer inspired by traditional Mexican drinks like horchata and jamaica. Feeding the community since 1933, <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/17577/las-cuatro-milpas">Las Cuatro Milpas</a> is revered for its homemade tortillas and comforting bowls of rice and beans. And Hayes Burger is already among the city’s <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/san-diego-best-top-burger-restaurant">essential burger joints</a>.</p>
<h3 id="NQJ1I3">La Jolla</h3>
<div> <figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Sugar coated buns shown on a tray from above at Wayfarer Bread &amp; Pastry" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/QN1tiHJZmqciAShKTlLk40ijJCI=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/22726628/DSCF4685.jpeg">
<cite>Haley Hill Photography</cite>
<figcaption>Wayfarer Bread & Pastry</figcaption>
</figure>
</div>
<p id="KyDOLW">Often referred to as the “Jewel by the Sea,” the coastal community of La Jolla is known for its picturesque beaches and stately homes. Its main thoroughfare, Prospect Street, alternates with boutiques and ocean-view <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-la-jolla">restaurants ranging from casual to high-end</a>.</p>
<p id="9pGM71">Visit <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/2519/georges-at-the-cove">George’s at the Cove,</a> a multi-level dining complex, which includes a rooftop terrace cafe and a cocktail bar lounge, or head to La Jolla Shores for <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/2022/5/31/23148517/sandpiper-restaurant-bar-galaxy-tacos-oysters-wood-grilled-meats-new-opening-la-jolla-shores">Sandpiper’s</a> fresh oysters and wood-grilled meats. </p>
<p id="vReRZ6">It would be a shame to visit La Jolla without eating some seafood. <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/60/el-pescador-fish-market">El Pescador</a> is exceedingly popular with locals for its market, where cases are stocked with fresh catches from the waters of Baja and San Diego, and customers can find a straightforward menu of salads, sandwiches, and grilled fish plates.</p>
<p id="sTXWsD">Technically located in the adjacent neighborhood of Bird Rock, <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/45078/wayfarer-bread-pastry">Wayfarer Bread & Pastry</a> is a destination bakery and cafe that frequently sells out of its exemplary baked goods, from croissants and English muffins to loaves made with heirloom grains.</p>
<h3 id="WenN2I">North County</h3>
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<cite><a class="ql-link" href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516589&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.shutterstock.com%2Fimage-photo%2Fencinitas-sign-353915708&referrer=eater.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fsandiego.eater.com%2F15955860%2Fsan-diego-dining-guide" target="_blank" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener">Shutterstock</a></cite>
<figcaption>Encinitas sign</figcaption>
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<p id="PFNlBp">North County comprises a number of communities situated north of San Diego proper, including <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/where-to-eat-in-carlsbad">Carlsbad</a> and <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-eateries-food-vista">Vista</a>. Known for world-famous surf spots and pricey homes, this area may be in the suburbs, but that doesn’t mean it’s short on good food.</p>
<p id="SNmuRH"><a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/7964/market-restaurant-bar">Market Restaurant + Bar</a> is an upscale, farm-to-table temple presided over by chef Carl Schroeder — a Culinary Institute of America and Michael Mina alum — while chef Davin Waite is renowned for his unconventional but reverential take on sushi at Oceanside’s <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/35253/wrench-and-rodent-seabasstropub">Wrench and Rodent</a>. And in Carlsbad, chef Eric Bost leads the Michelin-starred, French-inflected <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/47316/jeune-et-jolie">Jeune et Jolie</a> as well as the more casual <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/25865/campfire">Campfire</a>. And don’t miss Atelier Manna, a <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/2023/4/17/23686532/manna-atelier-restaurant-cafe-pop-up-brunch-dinner-coffee-new-opening-leucadia-encinitas">dreamy daytime cafe</a> in Leucadia that was Eater’s 2023 Neighborhood Restaurant of the Year. </p>
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<h2 id="res">Reservations to Make in Advance</h2>
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<p id="JfAjjP">Even on peak nights, you’ll usually be able to find somewhere to eat at the last minute since dining out in San Diego is a generally relaxed endeavor, but there are still some places where you’ll want to book as far in advance as possible. With space at a premium, sushi bars tend to fill up quickly, so at top spots like <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/15750/soichi-sushi">Soichi Sushi</a> and <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/40368/sushi-tadokoro">Sushi Tadokoro</a>, where sitting in front of a sushi master is the only way to go, make sure to reserve yourself a seat ahead of time. Reservations are also a must at high-profile chef showcases like <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/9799/callie-restaurant">Callie </a>and <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/venue/83759/kingfisher-restaurant-bar">Kingfisher,</a> but both restaurants accept walk-ins at the bar. </p>
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<h2 id="news">Follow the News</h2>
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<li id="nzihcq">Eater San Diego is updated weekdays with breaking news stories (restaurant openings, closings, etc.), maps, features, and more. Here are a few ways to stay in the loop:</li>
<li id="dRC6bV">Keep an eye on the <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/">Eater San Diego homepage</a>. New stories will always appear near the top and flow down toward the bottom of the page as they get older, while important recent stories will stay pinned right at the top. Also, check out Eater LA and Eater SF and our big sister, <a href="http://www.eater.com/">Eater.com</a>, for national and international food news. </li>
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<p id="0kKfl0">Have questions not answered here? Want to send in a tip or a complaint or just say hello? Here are some ways to get in touch with the Eater San Diego staff:</p>
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https://sandiego.eater.com/15955860/san-diego-dining-guideCandice Woo2024-03-21T14:00:38-07:002024-03-21T14:00:38-07:00What to Eat at San Diego's Petco Park, Home of the Padres
<figure>
<img alt="A view inside Petco Park." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/BZmQzpMZk1UraNQSi2TTGgzadXg=/459x0:7798x5504/1310x983/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/59123227/20230822_MT_MIA_1217.38.jpg" />
<figcaption>A view inside Petco Park. | Matt Thomas/San Diego Padres</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The existing food lineup adds Roman-style pizza, gyros, gelato, and more </p> <p class="p-large-text" id="LfZkGD">It’s time to party, Friar Faithful; baseball is back in San Diego. Our Padres are set to start their first homestand of the 2024 season on Thursday, March 28 at 1:10 p.m. when they’ll be hosting the San Francisco Giants. </p>
<p id="CHRj8V">Rightfully named the <a href="https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/best-mlb-stadiums-ranked-2024-edition-baseball-ballparks">best MLB stadium in the nation</a>, Petco Park has earned its high ranking due to its unparalleled location and amenities (including the newly renovated Gallagher Square and the Tony Gwynn Terrace viewing deck and picnic space) but also thanks to an impressive lineup of <a href="https://www.mlb.com/padres/ballpark/food">food and drink offerings</a> that include Seaside Market’s iconic tri-tip nachos, Grand Ole BBQ’s indulgent El Borracho fries, Hodad’s famous burgers, and the finest San Diego-made beer. With other notable homegrown names like Barrio Dog, Blue Water Grill, Board & Brew, Cutwater Spirits, Pizza Port, and Puesto, the ballpark’s concessionaires and sit-down restaurants are a winning reflection of the local culinary scene.</p>
<p id="1b34zG">Fans can expect to see many of their food favorites again this year, but the 2024 season also brings some exciting new dishes and a few rebranded spaces. </p>
<p id="7EsPUS">Check out what’s new on the roster: </p>
<p id="EYtfSi">North Park’s <a href="https://gelatiandpeccati.com/">Gelati & Peccati</a> is a fresh addition to the ballpark, returning the Buona Forchetta family of restaurants <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/2018/2/22/17040324/buona-forchetta-italian-pizza-petco-park-san-diego">back to its prime spot</a> in the Mercado at Petco Park, located on the Main Concourse behind Home Plate. Gelati & Pecatti will serve several variations of rectangular, Roman-style pizza including Margherita, meat lovers, and vegetarian. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="A slice of pizza with meat." data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/AMR366wzpMQWi6U_u4kIvy1F7F8=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25347068/Gelati_Meat_Lovers.jpg">
<cite>San Diego Padres</cite>
<figcaption>Gelati & Peccati’s Meat Lovers pizza.</figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="XTfdh0">The gelato-makers behind the irreverently named <a href="https://adcgelato.com/">An’s Dry Cleaning</a> on Adams Avenue and An’s Hatmakers in Del Mar Plaza are bringing An’s Athletic Field Services to Petco Park. Situated towards the back section of the Mercado and designed to look like the grounds crew’s garage, the shop will scoop up best-selling flavors as well as exclusive East Village creations like “Clay”, a Nutella gelato with homemade brownie pieces, and “Chalk” a vegan sorbet made with fresh lemon juice and California almonds. </p>
<p id="TIWm3r">Another new Mercado tenant is a second stadium outpost for San Diego’s Finest Hot Chicken, home of the popular Hot Hen spicy chicken sandwich. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Two Nashville-style hot chicken sandwiches." data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/5dAwL5R1og6lWoeMcjFT4Slo8v8=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/23366468/The_Hot_Hen___Spicy_Chicken_Sandwich__002_.jpg">
<cite><em>Delaware North</em></cite>
<figcaption>The Hot Hen</figcaption>
</figure>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="jzqmR0">
<p id="JV6bv4">Joining Craft Row on the Main Concourse as part of Petco Park’s Craft Beers of San Diego program are Vista-based <a href="https://westbrew.com/">WestBrew</a> and <a href="https://novakombucha.com/">Nova Easy Kombucha</a> by Novo Brazil Brewing Co., which will be releasing a City Connect-themed Sunset Slam Mango Lime hard kombucha collaboration with the Padres. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/2Hfq0KTH95nPYcz1hGeSjXMHfnI=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25347848/NOVA_Sunset_Slam.jpg">
<cite>Nova Easy Kombucha</cite>
<figcaption>Sunset Slam hard kombucha.</figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="TzByoC">Also on the beverage front, look for a new frozen drink called the “Frozen Friar” that will be available with or without alcohol in flavors like Mangonada, Island Punch, and Strawberry Lemonade. </p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="Jg6eZ9">
<p id="EKyTcm">With existing restaurants in Coronado and La Jolla, <a href="https://spiroscuisine.com/">Spiro’s Mediterranean Cuisine</a> is landing in Section 124 on the third base side. Among its ballpark menu items are a classic gyro and a horiatiki bowl inspired by a Greek salad. </p>
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<img alt="A Greek salad bowl." data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/2K9JMFRnwgSV5sn2wDkLnTpRozg=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25347070/Spiros_Horiatiki_Bowl.jpg">
<cite>San Diego Padres</cite>
<figcaption>Spiro’s horiatiki bowl.</figcaption>
</figure>
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https://sandiego.eater.com/2016/4/1/11339550/san-diego-petco-park-best-food-padres-where-to-eatCandice Woo2024-03-21T09:22:41-07:002024-03-21T09:22:41-07:00Here Are San Diego’s Most Anticipated Restaurant Openings of Spring 2024
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<img alt="A plate of mussels." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/KzcYgBSWnsCzUd17OkJI-Y3XtAs=/73x0:1241x876/1310x983/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73223419/S_S_dinner_mussels.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Mussels at Sea & Sky. | Bhadri Kubendran</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Where you can look forward to eating and drinking</p> <p id="Mma7hP">2024 is already shaping up to be a potential banner year for San Diego restaurants and bars, with the first quarter bringing several exciting high-profile openings. As the weather slowly warms, there’s still plenty to look forward to over the next few months of the spring season. Some long-awaited establishments are primed to finally make their debut, including breakout endeavors by acclaimed chefs and fresh offerings from established culinary teams.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="ftdKzE">
<h3 id="X310CM"><strong>Sea & Sky</strong></h3>
<h3 id="czLUIe"><strong>Opening: April </strong></h3>
<p id="nZxEIN">James Beard Award-nominated Anthony Wells, the longtime executive chef of Juniper & Ivy, is heading up <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/2023/12/6/23990792/juniper-ivy-chef-anthony-wells-sea-and-sky-restaurant-new-opening-hotel-la-jolla">this 11th-floor restaurant</a> in the freshly renovated <a href="https://www.hotellajolla.com/">Hotel La Jolla</a>. Perched overlooking La Jolla Shores with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the coast, the 74-seat restaurant and bar features a show kitchen where Wells and team will cook up breakfast, lunch, and dinner plus weekend brunch. Known for his regional and seasonal approach to fine dining, the chef is planning a dinner menu that will include chorizo breadcrumb-topped mussels in a broth of garlic and cilantro butter, white sea bassed<em> </em>served with charred spring onions and green romesco sauce, and île flottante with Cara Cara anglaise, fresh citrus, and crispy sorrel meringue. <em>7955 La Jolla Shores Drive.</em></p>
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<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/hhB6bX8Sk7q7nkSGd-6lwzqS3ik=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25347832/Sea_and_sky_bar_dining_2__002_.jpeg">
<cite>Hotel La Jolla</cite>
<figcaption>Rendering of Sea & Sky.</figcaption>
</figure>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="U1WYzV">
<h3 id="4rFMmJ"><strong>Le Coq</strong></h3>
<h3 id="jUIaWA"><strong>Opening: Late Spring</strong></h3>
<p id="mu3UYW">The <a href="https://puffermalarkeycollective.com/">Puffer Malarkey Collective</a> (Animae, Herb & Wood) is returning to La Jolla to open a modern French steakhouse at the former site of Herringbone. Leading the charge will be Animae executive chef Tara Monsod, <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/2024/1/24/24049087/animae-chef-tara-monsod-james-beard-award-semifinalist-best-chef-california-san-diego">a semi-finalist for Best Chef California</a> in this year’s James Beach Foundation Awards. Admired for her role in revamping the Marina District restaurant, where she applies her culinary experience to dishes that honor her Filipino heritage, Monsod spent time dining and staging through French cities like Paris and Lyon in research for her menu at <a href="https://www.lecoq.com/">Le Coq</a>. Designed by Christopher Puffer in collaboration with Megan Power of Workind Studio (Marisi, 31ThirtyOne), the space will be a stage for the chef’s reinvention of classic French cuisine. <em>7837 Herschel Avenue. </em></p>
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<h3 id="Q7sEV8"><strong>31ThirtyOne</strong></h3>
<h3 id="7C9uCN"><strong>Opening: Late Spring</strong></h3>
<p id="hNilVQ">The long-hoped-for first San Diego restaurant from celebrated chef Drew Deckman of Valle de Guadalupe’s Deckman’s en el Mogor is finally on the horizon. Though it will share a commitment to sustainable practices and center around live fire cooking like his Valle home, the veteran chef is recalibrating his North Park kitchen to be fueled by its own culinary garden in Ramona and San Diego area-based fishermen and ranchers. The 4,200-square-foot, three-level space will include a rooftop cocktail and wine bar as well as an oyster bar and 10-seat chef’s counter on the ground floor where Deckman will offer a tasting menu. <em>3131 University Avenue.</em></p>
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<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/eLNhuwXRwsX820hfsh-cH8wR1GQ=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25347842/3131_rooftop_credit_31ThirtyOne__1_.jpg">
<cite>31ThirtyOne</cite>
<figcaption>Rendering of the rooftop.</figcaption>
</figure>
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<h3 id="sVr1OI"><strong>Wildflour</strong></h3>
<h3 id="8HvvEO"><strong>Opening: Late Spring </strong></h3>
<p id="I40RNm">San Diegans know Phillip Esteban (CH Projects, Tender Greens) through his popular fast-casual locations of White Rice, community activism, and frequent collaborations around town, but the Eater Award-winning chef and his hospitality group Open Gym will soon have 4,000 square feet in Liberty Station to show more of their culinary prowess through <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/2023/4/19/23689561/chef-phillip-esteban-wildflour-delicatessen-restaurant-bar-seafood-bakery-market-liberty-station">this all-day restaurant</a> coming to the complex’s Art District. In addition to offering a robust takeout experience with grab and go items and coffee from Barrio Logan’s Provecho! Coffee, the modern, SoCal take on a delicatessen will encompass a bakery and deli with a menu of sandwiches, cured meats, and plates of local produce and seafood as well as a full cocktail bar and natural wine program. <em>2690 Historic Decatur Road.</em></p>
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<cite>Open Gym</cite>
<figcaption>Rendering of the bar at Wildflour.</figcaption>
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<h3 id="ZTAr0B"><strong>Bopomofo Cafe</strong></h3>
<h3 id="KGTARX"><strong>Opening: May </strong></h3>
<p id="AQ0MZd">A certified hit in the Los Angeles area where it's known as an <a href="https://la.eater.com/maps/best-boba-tea-shops-drinks-san-gabriel-valley-los-angeles">essential boba spot</a> is <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/2023/11/27/23977945/bopomofo-cafe-boba-tea-asian-food-restaurant-new-opening-los-angeles-san-diego">expanding to San Diego</a>, starting in the Convoy District. <a href="https://www.bopomofocafe.com/">Bopomofo Cafe</a> founders Eric Wang and Phillip Wang have created a buzzy menu that includes creative drinks like fresh corn milk with housemade strawberry sorbet and a cold-pressed carrot juice-infused matcha latte and playful bites that fuse Chinese, Taiwanese, and Western favorites, including honey walnut shrimp burgers, Hainan chicken tacos, and tater tots topped with mapo tofu. The founders tell Eater that the local stores will also offer some unique dishes created just for San Diego. <em>7951 Othello Avenue.</em></p>
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<h3 id="VZ7WzS"><strong>Cellar Hand</strong></h3>
<h3 id="4KIpB2"><strong>Opening: Late Spring </strong></h3>
<p id="AuBGT1">Further establishing its presence in San Diego beyond its Little Italy location, Central Coast winery <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516589&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fpaliwineco.com%2F&referrer=eater.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fsandiego.eater.com%2F2024%2F3%2F21%2F24107619%2Fbest-new-restaurant-spring-san-diego-2024-anticipated-openings" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Pali Wine Co.</a> is bringing its first-even full-service restaurant to Hillcrest. The family-owned company enlisted local firm Tecscape Design in setting the scene for the space, which has a large outdoor patio and will pour the breadth of Pali’s bottles along with a carefully chosen selection of wine from other producers. Its farm-to-table menu will be Mediterranean but informed by California ingredients and Cellar Hand’s proximity to the Hillcrest farmers’ market. <em>1440 University Avenue.</em></p>
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<cite>Pali Wine Co.</cite>
<figcaption>Rendering of Cellar Hand’s patio. </figcaption>
</figure>
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<h3 id="BrnP0i"><strong>Michi Michi</strong></h3>
<h3 id="vd9Lok"><strong>Opening: May </strong></h3>
<p id="bBNj1F">A community-minded spin on a traditional bakery, <a href="https://www.michimichibakery.com/">Michi Michi</a> will use its Bankers Hill storefront as a launching platform for budding bakers, offering counter and kitchen space to guest chefs and up-and-comers. The brainchild of Split Bakehouse founder Vanessa Corrales, the bakery will offer a rotating lineup of everything from fresh bread to vegan baked goods and will overseen by experienced pastry chef Arely Chavez, an alum of Born & Raised and the Fishery, who will herself be creating pastries, specialty desserts, and whole cakes spotlighting produce from area growers like Chino Farm and JR Organics. <em>2800 Fifth Avenue.</em></p>
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https://sandiego.eater.com/2024/3/21/24107619/best-new-restaurant-spring-san-diego-2024-anticipated-openingsCandice Woo2024-03-20T11:35:52-07:002024-03-20T11:35:52-07:00Short Rib-Filled Bowls of Vietnamese Pho Splash Down in University City
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<img alt="Array of Vietnamese dishes, including pho noodles, egg rolls, shrimp spring rolls, and chili tamarind wings." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/YE9_3EF9Adyfhp-2wxh6FwbY1ts=/0x155:2448x1991/1310x983/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73221361/overlay.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Array of Vietnamese dishes, including pho noodles, egg rolls, shrimp spring rolls, and chili tamarind wings. | Viet Nom Restaurant.</figcaption>
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<p>Viet Nom is the latest restaurant from the team behind Steamy Piggy and Flama Llama.</p> <p id="UkMcF0">A new Vietnamese restaurant has touched down in the University City area at the Renaissance Town Centre shopping plaza. Called <a href="https://www.vietnomsd.com/">Viet Nom</a>, its menu centers around pho dishes and is the sixth establishment overall for SDB Restaurant Group, which also operates Convoy’s Steamy Piggy and Flama Llama.</p>
<p id="UyrZVO">Owner Frankin Chou tells Eater, “We wanted to create a small, modern Vietnamese pho shop with a concentrated menu.” Among the pho options is the Pho Nom bowl, which includes bone-in short ribs, meatballs, and boneless short ribs, and a noodle-less pho broth that features bone-in short ribs and vegetables. A vegetarian version of pho is also in the works. </p>
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<img alt="Interior dining room with wall decoration." data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/hRYP16BhnXPCCKwAKaV1C_K7-DE=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25346247/Interior_Fans.jpg">
<cite>Viet Nom Restaurant</cite>
<figcaption>Interior dining room.</figcaption>
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<img alt="Pho Nom noodle dish with bone-in rib, meatballs, and boneless short ribs, along with shrimp spring rolls, egg rolls, and wings." data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ApRepzNvFSPFu3u2W2sdLIrhsIU=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25346260/bone_pho.jpg">
<cite>Viet Nom Restaurant</cite>
<figcaption>Pho Nom noodle dish with bone-in rib, meatballs, and boneless short ribs, along with side dishes.</figcaption>
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<p id="Oseboy">Chou is also offering dishes from his other establishments, such as the chili tamarind wings that are also available at his fried chicken shop Bok Bok Dok and the Galaxy lemonade (lychee lemonade with butterfly pea tea) from Steamy Piggy, along with side dishes and snacks like crullers (deep-fried dough sticks for dipping in the pho), shrimp spring rolls, fried egg rolls, and red bean sesame balls.</p>
<p id="ZCWkgx">Since debuting Steamy Piggy in 2017, the group has gone on to open Formoosa and Yun Tea House in Kearny Mesa and Bok Bok Dok in Point Loma. Next is a ramen shop called Oi-Shiba that’s landing in Pacific Beach this June.</p>
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<img alt="Chili tamarind wings." data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ZUYrdTQ_ivN8SEiT7tTmmctd3Jo=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25346263/wings.jpg">
<cite>Viet Nom Restaurant</cite>
<figcaption>Chili tamarind wings.</figcaption>
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<img alt="Drink selection, including purple Galaxy lemonade and Yuzu lemonade." data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/NLkY5qfuE_FYcz2EX8H74Pr0SmY=/800x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/25346265/drinks.jpg">
<cite>Viet Nom Restaurant</cite>
<figcaption>Drink selection, including purple Galaxy lemonade and Yuzu lemonade.</figcaption>
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https://sandiego.eater.com/2024/3/20/24106891/viet-nom-restaurant-vietnamese-pho-new-opening-university-city-renaissance-towne-center-san-diegoHelen I. Hwang2024-03-20T09:08:31-07:002024-03-20T09:08:31-07:0020 San Diego Restaurants With Tempting Tasting Menus
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<img alt="Local Fish Tasting Menu at Herb &amp; Sea." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/rtu7jxl_W89K06Uli9dLDK9MHeE=/349x0:5949x4200/1310x983/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72151174/Crudo_Herb_Sea_CreditKimberlyMotos.7.jpg" />
<figcaption>Local Fish Tasting Menu at Herb & Sea. | Kimberly Motos</figcaption>
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<p>Trusting your meal to the expertise of talented chefs can lead to thrilling food adventures</p> <p id="N6PC8M">In recent years, tasting menus have proliferated throughout San Diego’s food scene, either as a way to sample a restaurant’s best dishes or as the main centerpiece of the dining experience. Tasting menus give chefs more ways to exercise their creativity by changing things up with seasonal ingredients or playing with thematic elements while encouraging diners to put their trust in the kitchen.</p>
<p id="ONzKUA">With options for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike, this curated list features restaurants that revolve around a tasting menu format or regularly offer chef-curated menus. See our <a href="https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/best-sushi-restaurants-san-diego">essential sushi map</a> for standout omakase, or multi-course Japanese menus that include sushi and sashimi. </p>
https://sandiego.eater.com/maps/san-diego-restaurants-chefs-tasting-menu-dinners-omakaseHelen I. Hwang