With San Diego finally reopening restaurants for outdoor seating, we’ve been eating our way through town. From checking out new menus, to re-exploring some oldies but goodies; there’s something for everyone. Here is a round up of the San Diego restaurants I’ve been loving lately!
Cozy Date Night: Craft & Commerce
Craft & Commerce‘s Executive Chef Kyle Pierce recently launched a new “comfort-themed” menu with a Southern flair. So of course, bae and I decided this would be perfect for a cozy rainy date night. The new flavors as always pack a punch and are the perfect mix of elevated and comforting.
- Neighborhood: Little Italy
- Address: 675 W. Beech St, San Diego, CA 92101
- Hours: Monday to Friday 4pm – 10pm, Saturday to Sunday 10am – 10pm
Our order: Confit Duck Leg “Tacos” (an absolute must), BBQ Quail Skewers, Fire Roasted Carrots, Grilled Shishito Peppers, Slow braised Beef Short Rib
Pro Tip: When you make your reservation, request the tables that have the fire pits. You’ll be extra warm and it adds a little flair of romance!
Best New Restaurant: El Cruce + 241
At this new San Diego restaurants spot, you’ll find all the flavors of Baja, California – with many ingredients imported from Mexico. Their seafood is super fresh and they offer an impressive selection of Mexican beers on tap plus a curated list of Mexican wines.
- Neighborhood: Chula Vista
- Address: 241 3rd Ave suite C, Chula Vista, CA 91910
- Hours: Monday to Friday 11:30am – 8pm, Saturday to Sunday 10am – 8pm
Our order: Pulpo Asado, weekend special of scallops aguacaliente, ceviche de pescado, Corona del Valle Sauvignon Blanc, Insurgiente Tiniebla
Pro Tip: Brunch is coming soon and the menu will be expanding!
Most Instagrammable: Holy Paleta
If you’ve ever driven down Bonita Road on a weekend, you may have seen a massive line outside of Holy Paleta. We visited their second location which serves up all the Miami vibes! They offer a wide selection of all-natural, handcrafted paletas which make for a perfect afternoon snack on a warm San Diego day.
Note: They’re now serving micheladas and burritos if you’re in need of a lunch or happy hour fix!
- Neighborhood: Little Italy
- Address: 2040 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
- Hours: Monday to Thursday 11:30am – 9pm, Friday to Sunday 11am – 10pm
Our Order: Strawberry Cheesecake Paleta and Limon Paleta
Pro Tip: Save up to 50% here with the Savorite App!
Best Vegan Meal: Cocina Calavera
What started as a healthy take on Latin food with a spin quickly has become a vegan fan favorite. From “skinny” cocktails to vegan cream sauces, even the non-veg heads will love it! PS: there’s also non-vegan items on the menu in case you’re craving some birria tacos or chicken fajitas.
- Neighborhood: Hillcrest
- Address: 3923 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103
- Hours: Tuesday to Friday 3pm – 8pm, Saturday 12pm – 8pm, Sunday 12-6pm, closed on Mondays
Pro Tip: Save up to 50% here with the Savorite App!
Brunch with a Mediterranean Flare: Madison on Park
We discovered this vibrant spot while researching brunch spots in San Diego that would be perfect for a Valentine’s Day date. We were quickly drawn to the Mediterranean-inspired menu and aesthetic decor. Our call? Come for the ‘gram, but stay for the good food.
- Neighborhood: University Heights
- Address: 4622 Park Blvd, San Diego, California 92116
- Hours: Tuesday to Friday 5pm – 10pm, Saturday 9:30am – 2:30pm + 5pm – 10pm, Sunday 9:30am – 2:30pm + 5pm – 9pm, closed on Mondays
Our Order: Carnitas Stack, Strawberry Banana Nutella French Toast
Pro Tip: Brunch is only served on weekends and can get pretty packed. Make a reservation before visiting.
Healthy Food On the Go: Grater Greens
Can we call Grater Greens the Chipotle of healthy lunch bowls? GG is an IT Girl’s dream – plenty of flavorful (yet healthy) options with the backdrop of air plants and white marble countertops. Whether you’re running errands in the area, or looking for a work day lunch option, this is a great option.
- Neighborhood: Mission Valley
- Address: 5608 Mission Center Rd #901, San Diego, CA 92108
- Hours: Monday to Saturday 11am – 7pm, Sunday 11am – 5pm
Our Order: Mediterranean Salad with Tofu, Toasty Tahini Power Bowl
Pro Tip: Don’t miss GG’s agua frescas (made fresh daily)!
Oldie but Goodie: Fig Tree Cafe
Fig Tree Cafe has been a staple in the Pacific Beach neighborhood for the past 10+ years – serving locals in their garden-like cottage restaurant. The recent remodel and their unique french toast sampler definitely deserves a call out!
- Neighborhood: Pacific Beach
- Address: 5119 Cass St, San Diego, CA 92109
- Hours: 7am – 3pm daily
Our Order: French toast sampler with bananas foster, fig jam & ricotta, berry sweet & California breakfast burritos
Pro Tip: Request seating on the “hidden” back patio. You’ll feel like you’re in a secret garden!
Katie Ailin says
Decided I need to visit San Diego ASAP to try these recommendations. Love your work so much!
Giulia says
aww thanks so much! enjoy!