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 Airport-edge dining |
8885 Balboa Ave San Diego, CA 93123 United States +1 858 560 6771 http://www.94thaerosquadron.si... |
An inviting French farmhouse re-creation holds this aero plane-themed restaurant, one of a chain built next to small airports. Watch light aircraft land and take off as you dine in a World War I atmosphere accented with authentic military memorabilia. French-inspired and meaty dishes fill most of the menu, with a few lighter choices. Early Flight dinners offer Prime Rib, London Broil, Fish of the Day and other entrees. From the dinner menu, Rack of Lamb is a customer favorite. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A Taste of Jazz |
1337 India Street (between A and Ash Streets) San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 595 0300 http://www.anthologysd.com |
Anthology is a revival of the supper club set in San Diego's Little Italy; upscale dining in an intimate setting while enjoying a live concert every night. The menu is based on seasonal, fresh produce and changes daily, as does the show. Most nights feature great jazz and often a renowned singer or guitarist, with some nights devoted to another musical genre. Every table in the house is reputed to be prime seating. See website for details on purchasing tickets and show times. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Top quality and great value |
3999 Mission Boulevard San Diego, CA 92109 United States +1 858 539 8635 |
This five-star, award-winning restaurant features an atmosphere that is sophisticated and mildly tropical-flavored, part of the Polynesian-themed Catamaran Hotel. The chefs are creative, but never silly. The ingredients are combined because they work, whether it is the Chilled Cantaloupe Soup, served with Mango Garnish, or Colorado Lamb Potstickers with Spicy Sweet Sriracha Sauce. There are many inexpensive options, all prepared with care, including personal gourmet pizzas and a Fresh Ahi Tuna Sandwich with Arugula, Onions and Soy-Wasabi Aioli. Reservations are usually imperative. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Wine and dine |
5610 Paseo Del Norte San Diego, CA 92008 United States +1 760 603 1919 http://www.bellefleur.signonsa... |
Nestled near the Carlsbad Flower Fields, this upscale restaurant is Tuscan in style with Old-World charm. The innovative cuisine is carefully prepared to complement the restaurant's fine wines. For an appetizer, try the Pan-Roasted Tiger Shrimp with Bellefleur Chardonnay, Lemon Butter and Warm Crostini. Then, indulge in the Grilled Salmon entree in grape leaves with yellow Finn Potatoes and Fennel-Mushroom Ragout Runs. The wines are sold only on the premises. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Culinary artistry |
477 Camino Del Rio South San Diego, CA 92108 United States +1 619 298 4666 |
This long-standing restaurant makes your dining experience a theatrical event! It offers a culinary thrill as you watch the flying fingers of your tableside chef deftly chopping and cooking your food before your very eyes. The steaks are flavorful and tender, while the lobster is sweet and succulent. Guests may also enjoy fresh sushi at the contemporary sushi bar. Dinner entrees range from $16-36. Reservations are recommended. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gregg O'Connell  |
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Hard to find, hard to leave |
8111 Mira Mesa Boulevard San Diego, CA 92126 United States +1 858 578 7892 http://www.callahanspub.com/ |
This is a brewpub that has it all, including a great selection of made-on-the-premises beer, combined with tasty food at reasonable prices. So what is it doing in a shopping mall? Ignore the odd location and enjoy yourself. Both diners and drinkers enjoy munching on the Wings of Fire, a bright, spicy appetizer that requires plenty of quenching with any of the microbrews on tap, from Shamrock Gold to Callahan's Red. The restaurant also makes its own sausages; try the Callahan's Spicy Beer Sausage Plate. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Mexico City-style cuisine |
345 South Coast Highway 101 San Diego, CA 92024 United States +1 760 634 2793 http://www.el-callejon.com/ |
Among a plethora of Mexican restaurants in San Diego County, this festive spot specializes in Mexico City-style cuisine. Brightly painted murals cover the walls, both outside and inside, and Mexican music is played throughout the restaurant. From the menu, try one of the Quesadillas, with Rotisserie Rork or Carne Asada. Tacos de Pollo con Guacamole (chicken tacos, with lettuce, Cotija cheese and guacamole) are another popular specialty. And the drinks? The restaurant hosts a full bar with 55 different Tequilas, as well as a variety of Margaritas. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Metal meets menu |
558 Fourth Avenue San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 232 4483 |
This restaurant offers a slick modernist atmosphere and a trendy Generation X/Y crowd to match. Depending on the diner's mood, this open, metallic, black, white and gray restaurant lit with flame-colored lighting can seem limitless and expansive, or cold and industrial. "Modern American" cuisine is the approach here, which in these times means a richly varied menu where Gourmet Wontons elbow jerk Scallops and Japanese Eggplant shakes hands with Portabella Mushrooms. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Christian Crowe |
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Filmic feasting |
412 K Street San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 595 1929 |
This cafe, tucked into a city block, offers plenty of atmosphere and a welcoming attitude summed up in its motto, "Why would you ever want to leave?" The bright, clean environment serves as a shrine to great coffee and light snacks. Coffee comes first here, served in big, freshly poured cups to please. In addition to coffee, the venue offers a selection of tasty sandwiches freshly made to order. Barbecue items are also on hand. There is a huge 70-inch television to watch and internet access is available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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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A fiesta for all senses |
3003 Carlsbad Boulevard San Diego, CA 92008 United States +1 760 729 0903 |
With colorful decor, talented mariachis and traditional Mexican specialties, this place is a fiesta for all the senses. Pueblo-style architecture welcomes you to a Southwestern ambience. The indoors is covered with decorative tile, Southwestern paintings and pottery, while the outside patio offers umbrella-topped tables among cactus plants. As the mariachi group approaches your table, request a song from any region of Mexico. As for the cuisine, try the Carne Asada (served with guacamole, salsa frescale and tortillas). Top off your meal with a famous margarita. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Fresh fish |
640 Via de la Valle San Diego, CA 92075 United States +1 858 755 2277 http://www.thefishmarket.com |
Featuring a cocktail bar, oyster bar, dining room and fish market, this spot is always crowded with San Diego locals. The fish is unbelievably fresh and all sauces, soups and sides are made on site daily. The menu changes daily, as entree choices are dependent upon fishing success. Generally, Smoked Fish tops the menu, with popular options including Pacific Swordfish and Pacific King Salmon. For those who prefer shellfish, consider Oysters Rockefeller or Clams Con Pesto. Lobster tails are a specialty for USD 38; many other dishes run USD12-18. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: SumAsian |
 Photo: Donald & Kathryn Jacobs |
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Dip to Your Heart's Content |
909, Prospect Street San Diego, CA 92037 United States +1 858 551 4509 http://foreverfonduerestaurant... |
This restaurant revives the art of fondue. The four-course menu will tickle your taste buds starting out with a fine selection of savory cheeses. Before your feast, cleanse your palate with a Pear Salad with Gorgonzola Cheese, Walnuts, and the well-loved Raspberry Vinaigrette. Catering to Carnivores and Veggies alike, entrees range from the Vegetable Platter, Chicken Breast, Filet Mignon, Shrimp and Salmon. Much like the classic, comfortable ambiance created by the warm burgundy and crème colored décor, the delicious chocolate desserts take you to a place like no other. Dip juicy strawberries in fondue choices like dark chocolate, or chocolate with macadamia nuts, amaretto or Butterfinger slices. An inviting selection of wine is also available to complement every flavor. Even if the sea breeze has brought a chill to the air, the food choices at your table will bring warmth to your belly. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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 |
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For the surfer |
5010 Newport Avenue San Diego, CA 92107 United States +1 619 224 4623 |
The word "Hodad" is a slang term used to describe a surfer "wanna-be." A hodad may own a surfboard and may even haul that board to the beach, yet never actually surfs. This joint has character, surfing character, with surfing memorabilia covering the walls and a jukebox playing appropriate tunes. Guests experience a surf dream world at this Ocean Beach establishment. For an extra treat, try sitting in the booth constructed from the front of a VW bus. Now THIS is Southern California! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Fred |
 Photo: chubbywabi |
 Photo: Hot Acacia |
 Photo: Suzi Duke |
 Photo: amerome |
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Movie madness & munchies |
1320 Fifth Avenue San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 232 2102 |
Cinema fans will love this movie-themed venue. Movie posters plaster the walls, while wooden captain's chairs surround the plain tables that might have come from your aunt's dining room. The Grille is a little short on grilled items, but does supply a selection of sandwiches and light eats. If you have ever wanted to get Humphrey Bogart between two pieces of sliced bagel, the Bogart Bagel will fulfil that fantasy and top it with cheese. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Burgers and fine spirits |
7637 Balboa Avenue San Diego, CA 92111 United States +1 858 569 8866 http://www.islandsrestaurant.com/ |
This popular dining venue is loud, bright and cheerful. Everything is tropical, from the ceramic birds and fish to the greenery, tiki torches and surfboard tables. The atmosphere is casual, and kids are very welcome. On the menu, this spot is famous for huge burgers, with several different toppings. Try a giant basket of fries or onion rings for a great complement. The bar is full service with dozens of specialty tropical concoctions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Happy Crabbing |
7610 Hazard Center Dr San Diego, CA 92108 United States +1 619 260 1111 http://www.joescrabshack.com |
This lively restaurant is not for those seeking out a quiet seafood meal, but if you are ready to party, this place is it. Periodically, sirens go off, the dance lights spin, music comes up and a carefully-rehearsed but apparently impromptu conga line of waiters and waitresses snakes through the dining area. Messy seafood is the main course here: crab claws, peel and eat shrimp, and other delights from the sea. It is popular with the college-age date crowd and young families. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Enlightened Vegetarian Cuisine |
3351, Adams Avenue San Diego, CA 92116 United States +1 619 282 4116 http://www.jyotibihanga.com/ |
This small corner restaurant in the heart of Normal Heights is anything but normal – it's extraordinary. A mainstay for locals for years, under its airy high blue-painted ceiling it offers delicious vegetarian and vegan cuisine prepared and served by followers of Sri Chinmoy, a prolific spiritual poet and teacher who runs marathons in his spare time. The chili, when available, is fantastic and is a great choice for any non-vegetarian in the group – they won't miss the meat. A Saturday buffet is offered several times a month – call for this month's schedule. -de Traci Regula Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Cuisine for surfing fanatics |
228 North Coast Highway San Diego, CA 92054 United States +1 760 721 6776 |
Dedicated surfers have a dining home here. Enjoy typical American cuisine, while basking in this restaurant's surfing theme. One wall is entirely covered in a bright, beach scene mural. The Longboarder AM is the top breakfast specialty. This meal includes pancakes or French toast, bacon or sausage, two eggs and fruit. Later in the day, consider the Longboarder PM (a sandwich with turkey, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, sprouts, avocado and pepper cheese). Served with your choice of sides, this entree is sufficient for two people. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Dipping Heaven |
8980 University Center Lane San Diego, CA 92122 United States +1 858 638 1700 http://www.meltingpot.com |
This is one of over 100 Melting Pot restaurants; the chain was founded in 1975. It is a four course experience including a cheese fondue, salad, entree, and chocolate fondue. Cheese fondue offers breads, apples, and vegetables for dipping and there are a variety of cheeses: swiss, cheddar, and spinach artichoke are only a few of their options. They have vegetarian, seafood, poultry, and beef entrees that come individually or in portions for two. The dessert menu includes strawberries, bananas, cheesecake, tasty marshmallows, pound cake and brownies to dip in a variety of decadent chocolate melts. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Eat Your Cake Too |
7556 Fay Avenue Suite D San Diego, CA 92037 United States +1 858 456 5098 http://www.dessertier.com |
Michele Coulon, the chef of this dessertier, loved baking desserts from a young age as she grew up in a family with generations of chefs. She aims to create desserts that are beautiful and elegant, but that above all you can't wait to bite into. The Dessertier uses local, organic products and Belgian chocolate to create their wedding cakes, desserts by the dozen, and a petit menu of savory luncheon plates. Lunch is served from 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. every day except Sunday. 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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Strike gold |
1020 West San Marcos Boulevard San Diego, CA 92069 United States +1 760 761 4900 |
The ever-popular Restaurant Row of San Marcos hosts this steakhouse, where guests enjoy a mining theme and huge portions of choice-cut meat. Rustic mining ambience characterizes this thematic restaurant. Dine among wagon wheels, mining lanterns and fresh flowers. Gaslight patio dining is available, located next to a large waterwheel and a giant tin can, plastered with the logo, "Old California!" For your meal, consider Rib Eye Steak, Center Cut Pork Chops or Bourbon Apple Chicken. Try the Boysenberry Cobbler for dessert. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Dine in Oriental style |
8862 Navajo Road San Diego, CA 92119 United States +1 619 465 8190 |
Catch a glimpse of the Orient at this popular Chinese restaurant. Incredible Chinese artifacts cover the restaurant, including statues, plates and large paintings. Do not be surprised when the staff parades through the restaurant, covered by the ceremonial and colorful dragon costume. If your choice is ordering directly from the menu, consider Honey Walnut Shrimp or King Crab Legs (served with bean sauce). Try a glass of Japanese Plum Wine with your meal. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Stamp of Approval |
950 Hotel Circle North San Diego, CA 92108 United States +1 619 298 0511 http://www.handlery.com |
Located at the Handlery Hotel, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience. It's innovative and interesting theme is its biggest attraction. Every nook and corner of this place is taken up by postcards of the city. As a souvenir, each guest gets to take one home. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Old Town Hot Spot |
3890 Twiggs St San Diego, CA 92110 United States +1 619 260 0305 |
A genuine Spanish-era adobe ranchero house is home to this popular restaurant in Old Town, where San Diego began. Inside the restaurant, soft adobe-colored walls are picked out with bright murals in a patio atmosphere complete with a waterfall. Lobster tops the menu, prepared Puerto Nuevo style with a sprinkle of spices. Try Lobster Melts or Lobster Tacos. Happy Hour in the Cantina runs 3pm-7pm Monday-Friday and offers discounted appetizers and drink specials. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jeffrey Hartman |
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North County super spot |
1020 West San Marcos Blvd (Suite 110) San Diego, CA 92069 United States +1 760 744 7550 |
Lobster is a San Diego-Baja tradition, and you can get plenty of it at this jumping cantina-restaurant. The coastal Mexican decor invites happy, slightly boisterous dining and drinking. The favorite dishes are served in buckets, which often hold enough for two people. The food is messy, tasty and fun, especially when accompanied by a few icy margaritas from the full bar. The menu offers a lot of lobster—Lobster Melts, Lobster Tacos or Lobster alone. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Flashback to flower power |
517 South Coast Highway 101 San Diego, CA 92024 United States +1 760 436 5001 |
Part of the Encinitas community since the flower power days of the 1960s and 70s, this restaurant holds a long tradition of a relaxing atmosphere and healthy cuisine. While the retro decor is no longer prominent, the vegetarian menu remains. One tofu platter combines fresh vegetables, tofu and peanuts with a garlic sauce. The Baked Mushroom and Cheese Casserole combines fresh mushrooms and pita bread with mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Top off your visit with one of the famous desserts made without dairy products. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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1950s mania |
1 Oceanside Pier San Diego, CA 92052 United States +1 760 433 7829 |
This little diner on Oceanside Pier combines the essence of the 1950s with an atmosphere of pure "Southern California." Patrons walk down a wooden bridge to get to this diner, a singular building located at the end of the pier. In the tradition of a 1950s diner, burgers and fries top the menu. Try the Ruby Dooby Double Cheeseburger. Remember to try the fountain treats! Oreo shakes, root beer floats and vanilla cokes are just a few of the options. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Football player's fare |
1640 Camino del Rio Norte San Diego, CA 92108 United States +1 619 291 7328 http://www.seau.com |
If you like life on a large-scale, this is the restaurant for you. This sports-theme restaurant owned by NFL linebacker, Junior Seau, has become a premiere gathering spot and watering hole since opening in 1996. Open and airy, the 14,500-square-foot restaurant with three levels provides plenty of elbowroom. Especially lively while the Chargers are playing (57 televisions project the highlights) the focal point is an 11-foot by 14-foot television projection screen. To accompany the full-service bar, the menu includes sushi selections, salads, sandwiches, burgers, pizza and fresh grilled fish. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Spanish Passion |
555 Fourth Ave San Diego, CA 92101 United States +1 619 233 5979 http://www.cafesevilla.com/ |
This intensely romantic restaurant offers outstanding Tapas—small, savory dishes served as appetizers or as an entire meal. The salmon, pine nut and cranberry empanada is particularly good, and the rich melted mancheco cheese in the Queso Fundido smears over the crusty bread in a very satisfying way. Enjoy the Tapas in the music-filled bar or dine on a full Spanish meal in the adjacent dining room. The downstairs nightclub is a big draw and also offers dance lessons some nights. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |