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 Italianate Eats |
3926, 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104 United States +1 619 297 7799 http://www.apertivo.com |
Purists may sniff that Italy does not have "tapas!" But the rest of us will enjoy this low-on-décor, low-priced food and wine hotspot in North Park. Very drinkable imported Italian wines start at $3 a glass, and specials may drive that price down still more. But the real joy is the fresh, flavorful food – ranging from a single meatball for a buck to a lamb shank braised in red wine for $7. Paired with a $4 pasta side dish, it's a meal you could pay more for elsewhere, but enjoy less. Add in warm, efficient service and you'll definitely develop an appetite here. -Kathleen Wilder Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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 |
 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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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 |
 Relaxed reading |
4496 Park Boulevard San Diego, CA 92116 United States +1 619 260 1917 |
This shop offers a charming setting in which to choose a book, sip a cup of coffee or tea, then sit down and relax. Close to Balboa Park, the light and airy cafe/bookstore brings people back time and again because of its friendly staff and great book selection. Gift items also include aromatherapy goods, pewter works, wind chimes, cards and plants. There is a computer on premises and open-mike poetry readings from 8p-10p every Wednesday. 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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Classic 50s coffee shop |
1451 Washington Street San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 296 8268 |
Theme restaurants spend millions trying to re-create what this unashamed coffee shop really is: a holdover from the 1950s, relatively unscathed by remodeling. This restaurant's charm is in its simplicity. It is plain, fun and comfortable, with "genuine naughahyde" booths lining the windows, a counter in the rear and cooks on parade behind the pass-through window. Cheap and good, the breakfast special includes pancakes or a waffle, plus two eggs, bacon and sausage. Dinner specials vary, but can include dishes like the tasty Barbecue Boneless Chicken Breast. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: koopa |
 Photo: koopa |
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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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Featuring the classics |
3831 Park Boulevard San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 293 7275 |
From the Laurel and Hardy films shown on the movie screen to the entree specialties made from scratch, this cafe features the classics. Wooden tables are topped with paper placemats. Daily newspapers and magazines are available for you to peruse while dining. During dinner, black and white classic films are shown on a movie screen. Traditional home-cooked favorites are the menu highlights. Try Meatloaf, served with mashed potatoes, Roasted Turkey or Pork Chops. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: June Clarke |
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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 |
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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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Food and Spirits |
Town and Country Resort & Convention Center 500 Hotel Circle North San Diego, CA 92108 United States +1 619 291 7131 http://www.towncountry.com |
People visit Charlie's for fun, food and spirits. You can play pool, or simply tune into one of the seven TV monitors and catch the latest game. Charlie's serves nachos, tacos, burritos, burgers, salads and pizza. If all this fails in raising your spirits, there are video games too. 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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By the light of the Lune |
2906 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92104 United States +1 619 688 9845 http://www.clairedelune.com |
This big coffee "lounge", housed in an appealing 1929 building, has helped revitalize its North Park block with coffee, light food and entertainment. Its late and extremely early hours appeal to shift workers, students and the creative fringe of all descriptions. The atmosphere is like a neighborhood full of living rooms combined into one huge space, with comfy couches and upholstered chairs, wood tables of varying heights and patterned carpets covering the bare floor. Coffees, teas and desserts are the most popular items, along with sandwiches and soups. 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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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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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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Possibly the planet's best |
4130 Park Boulevard San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 295 2244 |
This is truly a seafood lover's paradise. The room is bright and attractive. Offering lunch, dinner and a special Sunday Brunch, the cuisine is absolutely fabulous. Shrimp and Sweet Corn Hushpuppies are just one of the spectacular appetizers. Created with Southern, Cajun and Southwestern influences, you cannot go wrong with the Crab Cakes, served with black bean and smoked corn salsa, the Fried Oyster Salad or the Classic Seafood Gumbo. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Has Beyonce's Seal of Approval |
3001 University Ave San Diego, CA 92104 United States +1 619 793 4758 http://www.heavensentdesserts.... |
If you are looking for a delicious overload of sugar and sweets, look no further. This restaurant specializes in rich, sweet and irresistibly tasty desserts such as cakes, cookies, tarts, dumplings, and pies. Vegan options such as the "Sinless Chocolate Seduction Cake", served with strawberries and a chocolate soy ganache, allow everyone to enjoy. Aside from desserts, a wide array of teas, smoothies, Italian sodas and specialty drinks are available. Heaven Sent was Beyonce's chosen caterer when she hosted a VIP event in San Diego. - Molly Watts Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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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Ideal for a date |
500 Hotel Circle North Mission Valley San Diego, CA 92108 United States +1 619 291 7131 http://www.towncountry.com |
Located in the trendy Town & Country Resort & Convention Center, the restaurant is well worth a visit. It is a classic American steakhouse serving mouth-watering steaks and even better prime ribs. There is a good selection of chicken and seafood as well. Relax at the bar with some cocktails and enjoy the live musical performances. Don't forget to top your meal off with one of their incredible deserts. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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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Excellent Middle Eastern baked goods |
4237 Alabama Street (One block south of El Cajon Blvd) San Diego, CA 92104 United States +1 619 688 0717 |
This little place continues to flourish year after year because of its great reputation by word of mouth. You will find kafta, falafel, zaatar, shawarma and various chicken dishes cooked to your highest standards here. Many people pick up one of these sandwiches on a weekly, if not daily basis. Though you will need to order your favorite items at the counter, there is a delightful little outdoor patio where you can enjoy your meal. No alcohol is served. Catering services are offered. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Susan Williams |
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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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Breakfast and lunch specialties |
2801 University Avenue (At 28th Street) San Diego, CA 92104 United States +1 619 220 8992 |
Located about two miles northeast of Balboa Park, this wonderful early-day restaurant draws crowds from all over San Diego. Simple wooden tables and chairs are scattered about, giving this place a very informal atmosphere. Regular visitors love the blackberry-banana pancakes and the strawberry-granola pancakes. There is also a so-called Zen Breakfast composed of egg whites, tofu, zucchini and brown rice. For lunch, consider ordering Papa's Loco - an appetizer that can almost serve as a meal. Warm potatoes are covered with beans and cheese, providing a nice alternative to ordinary nachos. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Daniel D'Auria |
 Photo: mgdistrict |
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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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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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Trendy spot |
4096 30th Avenue San Diego, CA 92104 United States +1 619 521 0533 |
Formerly known as Euphoria, this coffeehouse caters to Generation Xers and has become the place to be seen in that set. Trendy, with a diverse clientele, the coffeehouse has for many become an alternative to the bar scene. Recently moved to a new location, the venue hosts a modern, upscale contemporary decor. On the menu, house coffee runs $2.50, while specialty coffees are $2.95 and up. Pastries and desserts start at $3.50. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Susan Williams |
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Modern-style cuisine |
4574 Park Boulevard San Diego, CA 92116 United States +1 619 295 7275 http://www.parkhouseeatery.sig... |
This restaurant is so familiar to many local diners that they use a nickname for one of the dining rooms - it is known as 'The Hearth Room'. The building that houses this restaurant was formerly a thrift shop, but has been renovated into a lively local cafe. Available seating areas include an outdoor garden patio (with a large clock, green umbrellas and tall trees), the front dining room, as well as the Hearth Room, hosting a wood-burning fireplace. The menu is vast and rather unusual. Try the Pan-Fried Pork Dumplings or Pan-Roasted Mussels. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jason Schultz |
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Sweet, Not Sour |
2877, University Avenue San Diego, CA 92104 United States +1 619 295 2610 |
Despite its North China name, this unashamedly Cantonese chop suey house still provides cheap family meals served on little silver-footed plates. Open since the 1930s, the interior is plainer than the ornate red-and-green chinoiserie outside would indicate. But this is Cantonese comfort food at its finest. Try the Almond Duck but ask for the more subtle "traditional" sauce instead of the standard sweet and sour. The waitress will smile and give you special treatment for the rest of the night. The selection of appetizers is a little sparse but you won't regret ordering the Chinese barbecued pork. -Kathleen Wilder Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Step back in time |
2223 El Cajon Boulevard San Diego, CA 92104 United States +1 619 297 1313 |
At a time when more and more people are becoming vegetarians, places like this venue are few and far between. This restaurant serves a menu full of red meat, including hamburgers and steak dinners. Composed of two rooms, neither having windows, yet rich in burgundy vinyl booths, this spot is the perfect place to enjoy a cocktail and relax. The best seat in the house is right by the piano, where live entertainers perform on some nights. Review © 2007, 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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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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Will blow your taste buds away |
540 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92103 United States +1 619 297 8424 |
This cheerful, quirky Thai restaurant is located in the heart of Hillcrest. The typhoon theme, with blown-away objects glued to the walls, may not please everyone as a restaurant interior, but it is different. Mirrored walls and the street-side windows enhance the perceived size of what is a small restaurant space. Noodle dishes are available with your choice of meat (or vegetarian textured tofu). Review © 2007, Wcities |
