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 Special Children's Menu |
2920 Zoo Drive San Diego Zoo San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 685 3200 http://www.sandiegozoo.org |
Once you're done touring the San Diego Zoo, head to Albert's, which is located within the zoo premises. Named after a lowland gorilla who was a beloved resident of the zoo, this place offers a variety of unique dishes. The menu features American, Nuevo Latino as well as French cuisine. The alfresco dining overlooks a waterfall. The restaurant also offers a special children's menu. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rob J |
 Photo: Rob J |
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A local escape |
3845 Fourth Avenue San Diego, CA 92103-3113 United States +1 619 299 6282 http://www.arrivedercirestoran... |
Located in downtown San Diego, this intimate setting allows you to escape the business of daily life and enjoy a brief moment of calm. Photographs cover the walls, appearing to be pictures from a family album. In warm weather, the restaurant owners open an entire wall of doors, allowing the inside and outside dining to become one peaceful entity. Traditional Italian favorites top the menu. The Vegetable Omelet, Veal Cutlet and warm Spinach Salad are customer favorites. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Casual Yet Chic |
2760 Fifth Avenue Between Nutmeg & Olive Streets San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 542 0394 |
This venue offers exposed brick walls, dark wood floors, and moss-green chairs. Their menu features seasonal selections such as Butter Lettuce Salad, Seared Foie Gras, and Wild Salmon. Save room for their Chocolate Decadence or Black Plum Tart desserts. They also have a full bar. The service is great, the ambiance is relaxed, and the food is affordable. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fine Dining with a View |
2550 Fifth Ave San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 239 1377 http://www.bertrandatmisteras.com |
In downtown San Diego, this fine dining establishment is not only well known for premium cuisine, but also for an expansive wine list. In fact, the Wine Spectator offered praise to this spot for hosting "one of the most outstanding wine lists in the world." While many San Diego restaurants allow for casual dress, this particular establishment requests more formal attire. Men should wear long-sleeved dress shirts and all guests are asked not to wear shorts. Popular entrees include Linguini with Clam Sauce and Veal Piccata. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Bite a big one |
1010 University Avenue Uptown Center in Hillcrest San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 574 7878 http://www.bigcitybagels.com/ |
Fresh bagels baked on the premises at this local shop soothe the homesickness of New York expatriates throughout San Diego. Do not worry if a plain bagel is not your thing, this venue has a vast selection of bagel-related treats. Try a Skyscraper Sandwich with piles of thin-sliced black forest ham and turkey breast, enough to tame any size appetite. Meanwhile, adventurous souls may want to try the Orange-Cranberry Jalapeno Bagel. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Everything's in the name |
3975 Fifth Avenue (Suite 100) San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 298 3155 |
Visions of Bombay are all the more vivid at this straight forward Cal-Indian venue in downtown San Diego. Dine among Indian music and paintings, where the culinary gifts are exciting, flavorful and oh-so-spicy. The curry dishes hold their own with the best of them, as does everything else on the menu. For vegetarians, there is a wonderful array of taste-tempting vegetarian offerings. Dinner entrees start at $9. Lunch and dinner buffets are offered. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Give us today our daily bread... |
350, University Avenue San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 683 9322 http://www.breadandcie.com |
A great place to go to if you are in the mood for a coffee break. The service is prompt so you don't waste too much time. Backed up by the fact that their pastries and sandwiches are one of the best around, it keeps the people coming back for more. You can grab a seat inside on the few chairs available or do what most people do...takeaway. The parking outside is usually full of people grabbing a quick bite in their cars. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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New Orleans Fare with California Twist |
2034 Kettner Boulevard #12 San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 239 4210 http://www.budsfoodshoppe.com/ |
This location was opened in 2004 and is decorated with the obligatory gold, green, and purple Mardi Gras colors. They offer a wide selection of Po Boys (sandwiches), Crawfish Etouffee, Jambalaya (Creole or Cajun), and Mardi Gras Pasta (with shrimp, crawfish, and mushrooms in a Creole tomato cream sauce). Don't leave without trying their Creole Pecan Pie (with a layer of cheesecake in it)! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Convenient and delicious |
3683 Fifth Avenue San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 298 0119 http://www.busalacchis.com/ |
Enjoy fine Italian dining with good service and reasonable prices. The restaurant's interior is tight, but that provides plenty of intimate nooks for dining with your date or pow-wowing with business associates. Several veal selections are available, including Saltimbocca and Spiedini. Meanwhile, the Misto di Pesce al Diavolo is a spicy mix of scallops, shrimp and fresh fish served with Angel Hair Pasta. To accompany these dinners, the restaurant offers a nice wine selection. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Cozy hideaway |
1440 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 260 8023 |
This cafe offers a cozy, intimate hideaway for couples or friends seeking private conversation and comfortable dining. Featuring pastel colors and a small dining area, the restaurant holds a charming feel, as well as a top-notch, contemporary menu. Some of the favorite entrees include Chicken Wellington and the Rack of Lamb. Another top seller is Sweetbread, complete with wine and olive sauce. Reservations are generally required; dressy attire is preferred. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fabulous desserts |
1731 India Street San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 531 1731 http://www.cafezucchero.com/ |
This restaurant's deli front conceals a charming courtyard, which looks like it escaped from a Roman villa. On the menu, Panini sandwiches make a great snack and the selection of gourmet pizzas is enough to share for a light lunch. The Ravioli con Funghi will feed your love for mushrooms, combining cheese with porcinis, garlic and olive oil. The restaurant serves late, making this a perfect retreat after the theater or a concert. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Emily Ho |
 Photo: Emily Ho |
 Photo: Joelle Reeder |
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Artsy eatery |
1027 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 543 0790 |
Sophisticated decor, black and white with splashes of color from local artists' exhibits, cleanses the eye as well as the palate in preparation for the elegant presentation of some of the finest California cuisine around. Popular entrees include Grilled Quail with Maple Sauce and Baked Baquetta Seabass. Menu items change daily, yet clientele come back time and again for this venue's tasty cuisine. An extensive imported and California wine list starts at $20. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Winner of The Silver Fork Award |
540 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 297 8424 / +1 858 490 3930 |
This restaurant caters to those with a penchant for hot & spicy food. For over a quarter of a century, Celadon has managed to earn the respect of customers through constantly serving delicious Thai food. Incidentally, the chef has even cooked for the Siamese royal family. On the menu, you'll find the best and the rarest dishes under the Chef's Specialty items. Go for anything...duck, chicken, or seafood. It's all good. And very affordable. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jack Lyons  |
 Photo: Jack Lyons |
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Mom and Pop shop |
3614 Fifth Avenue San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 299 1000 |
A local deli where mom does the cooking and pop is the pastry chef, this hot spot is wildly popular among San Diego locals. Most customers are regulars who come to sit at one of the few tables or simply to order specialties from the take-out counter. While the hot entree menu consistently changes, some of the frequent highlights include baked turkey, roast beef, quiche and various sandwiches. For dessert, try the Apple Tarte or Almond Pound Cake. This establishment is also a well-known catering provider in San Diego. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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More than tacos |
142 University Avenue Suite E San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 294 8646 http://www.chilangosgrill.com/ |
Showcasing traditional Mexico City specialties, this uplifting little restaurant offers far beyond the usual tacos, burritos and combination plates. The highly informal venue is populated primarily by locals, many of whom are regular customers. While the atmosphere is casual, the decor is still bright and the entire restaurant is clean and tidy. Carne Asada is a customer favorite. Other top sellers include Pico de Gallo Fruit Salad, Chile Relleno Quesadilla and Chicken/Avocado Salad. No bar is available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Old-style, comfortable deli |
535 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 295 2747 |
This delicatessen in the heart of Hillcrest stays open late for those who like late-night dining. It is located on a busy corner, and the windows all around offer plenty of people-watching opportunities. All pastries, including cakes and cheesecake, are baked fresh on the premises. Corned Beef on Rye and Chopped Liver, served with kosher dills, are favorites here. Servings are large and prices are moderate. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dale Welcome |
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Back to the 50s |
3946 Fifth Ave San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 542 1476 http://www.cohnrestaurants.com |
This bright, noisy, cheerful restaurant is not the place for a relaxing meal, but it is great fun. A popular venue for birthday parties, graduation celebrations and other family nights out, the restaurant also offers a full bar for the adults. You can get even enjoy chewable alcohol in the form of Jello shooters. The menu consists of hamburgers and retro home-style cooking, with a few contemporary choices. If Mom's meatloaf makes your mouth water, you can find a re-creation of it here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Starla Doss |
 Photo: Stevestr |
 Photo: Christoph Marquardt |
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Heart of Hillcrest |
425 Robinson Ave San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 295 2510 http://www.crestcafe.net |
This established neighborhood restaurant is within easy walking distance to Hillcrest shops and theaters. The comfortable, diner-cafe atmosphere caters to local professionals and Hillcrest residents. The cafe stakes its reputation on its traditional hamburgers, the "Famous Crest Burgers," which can be made with your choice of veggie patty, ground turkey or lean ground beef. All burgers include a side order—choose from fries, chips, cottage cheese or green salad. Entrees are all reasonably priced and include the Herb Crusted Chicken or the Artichoke Pasta. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Tempting taquitos |
3695 India St San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 299 0333 http://www.elindio.net |
The fact that this family-owned restaurant has been serving up good, authentic Mexican food since 1940, speaks volumes. Eating here says it all. Start the day with a breakfast burrito. A plate of chicken or beef taquitos or anything else on the menu for that matter is delicious. The prices are unbelievably low with many items USD8 or less. A festive indoor atmosphere is available, but most guests prefer to dine on one of the two outdoor patios. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Sweet dreams |
2929 Fifth Avenue San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 294 2132 |
Top off an evening on the town with the lightest, most memorable sweets. The delicacies change everyday but you have not lived until you have had the Creme Brule. Of course, you can always opt for the legendary brownies or whatever the fresh-baked cake specials happen to be. All in all, if you end your evening here, you are guaranteed sweet dreams. Prices range from $3-8 per dessert. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: mathmandan on Flickr |
 Photo: Allison Tran |
 Photo: Allison Tran |
 Photo: Christina Gardner |
 Photo: Christie Lutsiak |
 Photo: amabelley |
 Photo: amabelley |
 Photo: Rae A. Nester |
 Photo: Gilbert Basilio |
 Photo: Christie Lutsiak |
 Photo: Lazie Wasabi |
 Photo: chirpingbee |
 Photo: Emily |
 Photo: Karen Hsu |
 Photo: Shawn Cheng |
 Photo: atchang_2001 |
 Photo: Paul Tran |
 Photo: Kent L |
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Always a new menu |
515 Hawthorn Street San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 544 0940 |
San Diego locals recommend the top-notch Pacific Rim fare offered at this downtown restaurant. With a new dinner menu printed each day, this venue always has innovative cuisine for the faithful patron. Typical selections include catfish, salmon and sea bass. A full-service bar is available as well as an extensive wine selection. The restaurant is hidden away from the frequently traveled spots in the downtown district. Diners will find this restaurant tucked away amidst an environment of small offices. The ambience is lacking, but the cuisine is sensational. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Pizza and Italian grocery items |
1747 India Street San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 232 5094 |
This is one of the most beloved Italian restaurants in San Diego. Its pizza has been highly acclaimed since first being served more than 50 years ago. The front of the restaurant is an Italian shop selling dried pasta, wines, candy, canned goods and olives, and a deli selling Italian sausages and cheese. After passing through this aromatic area, one is led to the restaurant itself. The chefs here dish up all the classics including lasagne, spaghetti and meatballs, ravioli and more. Imported and domestic wine and beer is available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tasmin Brown |
 Photo: Norey Lee P. Navarro |
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Magical dining |
902 Washington Street San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 260 0400 |
This downtown hot spot is a magical place, literally. Magicians provide exciting entertainment Thursday through Sunday evenings, while you enjoy the cheery casual setting of the inside dining room or relax al fresco on the patio. Prime rib, fish, pasta dishes and nightly specials have been satisfying hungry diners since 1986. The popular venue serves breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as an entertaining time. A full bar is also available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Mission Hills taste treat |
3753 India Street San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 295 9269 http://www.gelatovero.net/ |
Located in what some refer to as Mission Hills and others as Midtown, this well-established coffeehouse offers limited indoor seating, sidewalk seating or upstairs view seating. The bistro-like setting is almost always crowded inside. Many locals slip in here not only for the coffee and tea, but are also known to indulge in exotic flavors of creamy gelato. Coffees range from house to specialty blends. Delectable desserts are also available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Colleen Roser |
 Photo: Colleen Roser |
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An Adventure in Comfort Food |
3628 Fifth Avenue San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 298 4646 http://www.hashhouseagogo.com |
Hash House A Go Go has earned devoted fans with huge portions of artfully arranged "twisted farm food". The chef has fun with dishes drawing on fresh produce and livestock and customers have fun eating until the cows come home. Flapjacks might include frosted flakes, the burgers are stuffed, and don't be surprised by the waffles and caramel with a Sage fried chicken at dinner. Breakfast is a favorite, but every meal offers creative plates for hungry folks. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Satisfies hearty appetites |
2271 First Avenue San Diego, CA 92110 United States +1 619 239 8176 http://www.hobnobhill.com/ |
Famous for its no-nonsense, generous portions of traditional American homecooked food, this venue draws huge crowds daily. Locals are fiercely devoted to the diner. Meanwhile, visitors are pleased with their first tastes of the delicious homemade favorites offered here. The kitchen serves up down-to-earth food such as tasty Corn Beef Hash, Turkey Croquettes and more. Traditional breakfast entrees are particularly popular, with eggs, potatoes, waffles and pancakes offered in gigantic servings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Allan Ferguson |
 Photo: Matt Biddulph |
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Great for night people |
3871 Fourth Avenue San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 291 9449 |
Got a craving for Chicken Chow Mein in the wee small hours of the morning? Or maybe you just have to taste an order of Pork Fried Rice? Whatever the reason, this place fits the bill with good, down-to-earth, tasty, unpretentious fare at fair prices. Recently remodeled, regulars think they took out some of the charm, but the food remains delicious. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Sushi That Really Rocks |
1288 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 220 0009 |
This new facility is a larger, slightly more upscale, version of the original Ichiban, with airy Asian décor, comfortable seating, and full sushi bar. It also features beer and wine to accompany their excellent sushi. This hot spot is always rocking-full of happy sushi lovers; consequently, service can seem a little rushed, but the food and atmosphere are always relaxed and happy. It's never too loud, too packed, or too trendy to be enjoyable. Happy Hour specials include a four-piece California roll, 3 pieces of chicken gyoza, plus your choice of beer or sake for just $5.95. Easy parking, frequent diner cards, too. -Detraci Regula Review © 2007, Wcities |
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No politics, just delicious |
3172 Fifth Avenue San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 295 2070 |
This eclectic restaurant claims to have a "dish for everyone." Hungry guests choose from dishes with origins from Mexico, India, the Pacific Rim, Italy or the United States. For breakfast, try an Indian dish called Utthupam, a crepe filled with lentils and rice. For lunch, try any of the delicious salads or pastas. At dinnertime, the Boeuf Amsterdam is a six-ounce filet mignon topped with a sauce of bleu cheese, white wine and onions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jeff Cohen |
 Photo: desi rascal |
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Pacific Rim meets lone ranger |
3958 Fifth Ave San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 220 6802 http://www.cohnrestaurants.com |
This award-winning restaurant, which combines Pacific Rim cuisine with Southwestern flavors, serves an upscale clientele in a contemporary atmosphere. A statue of a Japanese Samurai sculpted from natural stone and marble is the focal point of this venue's plum-colored, terra cotta decor. The menu is equally artistic, offering distinctive dishes that please the most discerning palates. Dinner entrees include Fennel Blackened Crab and Fish Cake or a Red Chile Shredded Pork Quesadilla. There are ten microbrews on tap and 50 wines available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Traditions of Afghanistan |
523 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92104 United States +1 619 294 7579 |
This popular establishment, hosting a menu and atmosphere that showcase the traditions of Afghanistan, is located in the heart of Hillcrest. The renovated restaurant is alive with bright fabrics encompassing the room. Traditional Afghani cuisine dominates the menu. Culinary choices include Aushak (scallion-filled dumplings), Zomorrod Chalow (lamb stew) and Aush (soup with vegetables and noodles). Eggplant is a popular item among appetizers and main dishes. Try the Bauraunee-Baunjaun, which is sauteed eggplant served with yogurt. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Pizza in Hillcrest |
3789 Fourth Avenue San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 542 0293 http://www.arrivedercirestoran... |
La Pizzeria Arrivederci provides a creative approach to pizza in the heart of Hillcrest. One of a chain of local restaurants owned by Antonino Mastellone, La Pizzeria Arrivederci serves pizzas named for local landmarks. Customers can sample the Hillcrest, topped with mascarpone cheese, basil, and mozzarella, while they sit on the patio. La Pizzeria's specialty pizza, the University Avenue, consists of walnuts, arugula, mascarpone cheese, and mozzarella. Vegetarians can enjoy the Vegetariana, topped with zucchini, roast bell peppers, eggplant and asparagus. La Pizzeria prepares pizzas for pick up at the restaurant. -Jane Watts Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Well-earned laurels |
505 Laurel St San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 239 2222 http://www.laurelrestaurant.com/ |
Starting out a few years ago as the latest "in" spot for dinner, this restaurant has matured into a permanent San Diego favorite. Located just off of Balboa Park, it is a popular theater dinner choice, with a lively after-five upper-echelon business crowd in the bar. The food note struck is southern French, and the Provencal dishes still dominate much of the menu. The menu changes twice per week. Chicken in Crock and Venison with a dried cherry crust and onion confit are just to name a few items. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Your gourmet French connection |
2202 Fourth Avenue San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 234 5540 |
If you are looking for a spot that is cozy, where you can hold a conversation without being drowned out by loud music or loud talking at the next table, this French bistro is the perfect place. The menu offers all the French classics with excellence both in preparation and presentation. Try the Jerulean Chicken, bathed in a creamy sauce with artichokes and fresh mushrooms. An extensive wine list is also available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Delicious Moo Shu |
2604 Fifth Avenue San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 232 1101 |
Located in downtown San Diego, this popular dining venue and its atmosphere put you right smack in the middle of China. The service is excellent and the food is authentic. You could easily feast on the wonderful Moo Shu Pork and nothing else. The pancakes are light and the pork is deliciously seasoned and well cooked. The menu also offers other traditional favorites that are equally satisfying. Entrees start at $8.25. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Martini Date |
3940 Fourth Avenue 2nd Floor San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 400 4500 http://www.martinisabovefourth... |
More than martinis, this bar is known for its food menu. Sunday brunch includes such dishes as Calamari and Artichoke Hearts, 3X Omelet and Philly Cheese Steak. Other expertly prepared entrees are Honey Mustard Chicken, Sake Wine Marinated Pork Chop and Cajun Mushroom Beef Rib Chop. The dessert menu is small but equally worthwhile. Otherwise, just select a drink and enjoy it on the patio, which offers views of Fourth Avenue. Every evening, tunes are played on the grand piano in the dining room. Also, try and catch the entertainment that features cabaret and live music by local artists as well as comedy shows (twice a month). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Great deal on food |
808 West Washington Street San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 296 8010 |
Situated in a fun shopping district, this venue serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The airy, pastel, open main room with fresh flower accents invites conversation and conviviality. The narrow second room fosters more intimacy and is perfect for couples seeking a bit of solitude. Popular entrees include everything from Classic Meatloaf to Filet Mignon. Complete your evening with a freshly baked dessert. The restaurant's classic signature dessert, Lemon Crepe, is brilliant. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Food that is never boring |
3671 Fifth Avenue San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 299 6499 |
A staffer describes the choices at this venue as "food that knows no ethnic boundaries." That said, if your taste tends to embrace the eclectic, then this will be your home away from home. Try the wonderful Jerk Seasoned Duck, an entree with the breast grilled and the leg roasted. It is served with papaya mango chutney and a plantain cake. Now that is enough to satisfy the most eclectic taste. There is an extensive wine list as well. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Food to smile about |
2061 India Street San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 234 4893 |
If you are an East Coast refugee salivating for a Union Square pizza or maybe some Little Italy meatballs and spaghetti, take heart. This authentic Italian deli and restaurant will satisfy your cravings. Family owned and operated, the venue specializes in homemade submarines, pasta and pizza. This place just may become your home away from home. Better yet, if you are a newcomer to Italian cuisine this is a tasty introduction to a genuine Italian deli. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Great-tasting classics |
1421 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 297 0722 |
There comes a time when you just want good, straightforward, down-to-earth American cooking. This place fills every carnivorous need with grilled-to-perfection ease. Whether it is a burger, finger-licking barbecued ribs or a gigantic steak, it is all well cooked and tasty. Steak lovers can opt for the 20-ounce rib-eye, which is ample for two people unless you have a gigantic appetite. Happy Hour, held on weekdays, offers well drinks for $2.50. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Whodunit? |
505 Kalmia Street Imperial House Restaurant San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 544 1600 http://www.mysterycafe.net |
The Mystery Cafe has been stumping guests for years with its presentation of innovative murder-mystery shows. After dinner is served by the staff of The Imperial House Restaurant, mingle with the players and try to find out who the culprit is in this wonderful mystery theater. Where else can you actively participate in your evening out, making it even more fun? Admission: $42.50-46.50 per person; four-course dinner and show. Reservations are required. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: SDub |
 Photo: SDub |
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Cal-Asian cuisine |
501 University Avenue (Fifth Street and University) San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 297 7888 |
Asian fusion cuisine plus sharp sushi make this restaurant popular among locals. The bright big-windowed corner location is far from intimate, but it is a great spot for some serious people watching. Almost all Asian cuisines are represented somehow in the entree items. Grilled Black Pepper-Crusted New York Steak is a highly-evolved cousin of a stir-fried Chinese pepper steak. Or try Jumbo Prawns relaxing over Thai-style noodles. The fusion is never confusion and it always results in a tasty new take on old favorites. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bes Z |
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Sophisticated Mexican Cuisine |
141 University Avenue, Suite 5 San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 692 4200 http://www.ortegasbistro.com |
A new twist on an old Baja classic, Ortega's A Mexican Bistro infuses its Puerto Nuevo dishes with California-style cooking. The bar, La Cantina, evokes high style Mexico City with plush couches while the dining area maintains an outdoor patio feel. Locals and tourists alike will love the handmade guacamole, made right at your table, complete with burnt lime and freshly chopped onions. Customers can sip Mentas while dining on Ortega's famous lobster dishes, or sample wines and the Huitlacoche and Portabello Taco Trio. Desserts include Coconut Flan with Grilled Pineapple and White Chocolate and Raspberry Cheesecake.-Jane Watts Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Promenade to the Prado |
1549 El Prado (In the House of Hospitality) San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 557 9441 http://www.pradobalboa.com/ |
Graciously housed in the House of Hospitality, this venue has hosted myriad weddings, parties and intimate dinners. After a long period of vacancy, almost any establishment would have been embraced by the hungry Balboa Park visitors and locals, but to receive this thoughtful, tasty gem of a bistro is a special delight. The Chicken Milanese is richly flavored with garlic and sage, served with rosemary-infused potatoes with arugula in a tomato concasse. If you want plainer food, try the Prado Cheeseburger. The luscious dessert tray varies daily. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: QueenCindy |
 Photo: Perry Sun |
 Photo: QueenCindy |
 Photo: Danielle Akkerman |
 Photo: Karen |
 Photo: Lorena & David; Fernández-Fernández & Gómez-Rosado |
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Region of Fresh Food! |
3671 5th Avenue San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 299 6499 http://www.regionrestaurant.com/ |
Moderate prices, fresh ingredients and a friendly and relaxed ambience keep Region rather packed. The menu includes everything from clams and sausages, to leeks, chives and salami. In addition, there's a whole range of desserts and cheese to choose from. If you can't make up you're mind, opt for the three-course set meal instead. Owner and chef, Michael Stebner along with Allyson Colwell organises cooking classes every Saturday. Other events include Craft Daytime Event, Holiday Feast, Indulging Region Specialties and more. You could host your parties here too. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Always in good taste |
880 East Harbor Island Drive San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 291 5030 |
When you are looking for a satisfying meal with attractive ambience thrown in for good measure, this venue never lets you down. Overlooking the harbor, it offers a great view complete with patio seating. The menu features consistently good prime rib, juicy steaks and a fine assortment of pasta and seafood dishes. When experimenting is not on the agenda and you want to enjoy an evening of fine dining, this is an excellent choice. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Classic Italian Food in Hillcrest |
3845 Fourth Avenue San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 299 6282 http://www.ristorante-arrivede... |
Ristorante Arrivederci provides classic Italian cuisine in the heart of Hillcrest. One of a chain of local restaurants owned by Antonino Mastellone, Arrivederci appeals locals and tourists with their Calamari and Zucchini Fritti, and daily specials. Arrivederci offers a wide variety of dishes ranging from spicy Penne Arrabbiate served with chicken to Salmone in Umido Norwegian salmon sautéed in white wine served with fresh vegetables. Their specialty desserts include Strawberry Napoleon and rum-soaked Tiramisu. A charming atmosphere and friendly staff keep customers coming back. -Jane Watts Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Sate to satisfy |
3731 India Street San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 574 0177 |
Recipes from the Thailand childhood memories of owner Su Mei Yu fill the air with fragrant scents of grilled chicken. Unpretentious and nicely decorated with artwork by Thai local artists, this casual restaurant offers noodles and sate light lunch or dinner. Asian beers are only $3.50, while house wines start at $7 a bottle. For your entree, try the Chicken Combination Plate, served with Satay, Jasmine Rice and Cucumber Salad. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Tasty grab-a-bite |
3515 Fifth Avenue San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 299 6080 |
Before spending the evening at the Old Globe or other downtown attractions, you want to grab a quick bite. An Italian place with good food and fast service sounds appealing. This long-standing San Diego favorite offers all of the above, and as a bonus, serves homemade dishes made with only the freshest ingredients in town. The prices are inexpensive, ranging from USD7-15. After a quick and satisfying meal here, you are ready to enjoy a night on the town! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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An ode to ale |
3701 India Street San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 299 0230 http://www.shakespearepub.com/ |
Homesick for Bangers & Mash? This pub is for Brits, Anglophiles and everyone in between. With its extensive choice of British favorite fare and vast imported beer menu, visitors from across the sea will feel right at home here. Dinners start at $9.95, lunches at $3.50. Daily specials are offered, as well as a traditional Sunday lunch (roast beef and Yorkshire pudding). A full-service bar includes beer and wine. Dart leagues meet weekly. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: baianablanca |
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Classy San Diego Lounge |
3175, India St (between Redwood St & Sassafras St) San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 358 9766 http://www.starlitesandiego.com |
From the same people who brought the Casbah and the Turf Club into existence comes San Diego's newest attempt at the modern upscale bar, the Starlght Lounge. Since first opening its doors in June of 2006 the lounge has defined quality as its primary goal. This is reflected in its extensive wine and beer selection as well as its list of specialty cocktails made from 100% fruit juice. The lounge also serves dishes such as Pan Roasted Jidori Chicken and seared scallops that aim at destroying your preconceived notions of bar food. Whether you're looking to dine in class, or have a beer with friends the Starlight Lounge will surely meet your needs, and in style at that! Review © 2007, Wcities |
