Archive for the dining & drinks category
April 2nd, 2008 by jamie a
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Winos unite at the on April 11-12 to enjoy awesome food, delicious wine, and help raise money for the Make-a-Wish Foundation.
Held in Embarcadero Park, spend the day relaxing and making friends in the sun as you taste hundreds of California wines, brews, and gourmet food. There’s even featured entertainment including a live blues band, jazz, and a concert featuring The Grams.
You can certainly feel good about this event, where $10 of each ticket goes straight to the Make-a-Wish Foundation, so be sure and reserve yours today!
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February 15th, 2008 by jamie a
Eclipse’s Rosemary Mint Hot Chocolate Photo uploaded by
The San Diego Beat recently made our mouths water and our hearts ache for some decadent chocolate from Eclipse Chocolat.
Their post, entitled focused on the creations of Eclipse Chocolat in University Heights. They’re currently offering a “winter dessert tasting platter” along with a special Valentine’s dinner this Friday including a 5-course meal of chocolate.
If you’d like to read more about the chocolatier, check out their , which focuses on their newest offerings and special events.
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San Diego?
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February 13th, 2008 by alena s
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Want to make this Valentine’s Day memorable? Our guide to San Diego’s top romantic restaurants will help you plan no matter where you are in the relationship. For additional resources on be sure to check out . To make reservations online try .
- Located in La Jolla, George’s features an extensive wine list, fresh local cuisine that changes daily, and a spectacular view of the water. George’s also offers customers the choice of three unique dining experiences; the recently renovated contemporary restaurant and bar, the more casual rooftop terrace, or the outside bar. have continuously named George’s one of the best places to eat in San Diego.
The Prado- This historic restaurant, found in , offers a fusion of Italian and Latin cuisine. The hand blown glass sculptures and chandelier lighting create a romantic and intimate setting. Be prepared to try some unique yet delicious dishes in this memorable restaurant.
- This elegant restaurant is located at the La Valencia Hotel in La Jolla and offers a unique array of fresh California favorites. Enjoy a bottle of wine from the 1,000 offerings on the wine list while experiencing the panoramic ocean views. Plus, you won’t have to travel far to find romantic . The offers luxury rooms and suites.
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San Diego?
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January 2nd, 2008 by carrie t
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San Diego is a tourist destination and a resort town at the heart of it. However, if you look hard enough, you’ll find that there are plenty of unique and fabulous local spots in the city. Of these, the is one of my favorites.
The Turf Club is a no frills Martini lounge and steak joint located in the eclectic neighborhood of Golden Hill. It feels like an old “swingers” bar from the minute you step inside. Grab a stool at the bar for the best service. (more…)
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December 19th, 2007 by susan j
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Mark your calendars, because January 27-February 1 and June 22-27 are the dates for next year’s . Over 120 restaurants are participating in this annual event, which allows diners to sample three course, prix fixe menus for $30 or $40 at some of San Diego’s premiere restaurants (beverages, tax, and tips are extra).
Here’s a sneak peek at a few of the restaurants that are participating in 2008:
At San Diego’s hip , diners can choose from mouthwatering dishes like shrimp and scallop ceviche, hickory and apple smoked pork ribs, and several sweet-sounding desserts like rain forest sorbet and chocolate pistachio torte. According to , this little gem in Little Italy has great mojitos, too!
in University Heights will offer patrons a sampling of their global cuisine, from crab empanada and kobe steak frites to dim sum donuts. A relatively newcomer to San Diego’s lounge scene, Lei Lounge features patio seating and an exotic selection of cocktails to match the eclectic food.
proves that “casual upscale food” is not an oxymoron. This neighborhood eatery’s restaurant week menu includes fig and red pear salad topped with Gorgonzola cheese, forest mushroom pappardelle, and beef filet medallion sprinkled with a cabernet syrup. Yum!
Check out the complete list of restaurants
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San Diego?
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December 14th, 2007 by jamie a
Night at the Casbah
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Whatever your after-hours style may be, here’s a list of great places to check out the scene in San Diego. There’s everything from live independent bands to karaoke and Belgian beers galore!
For the twenty-something hipster…
is San Diego’s best-loved place to catch the best in upcoming bands. While you’re waiting for the music to start, amuse yourself with some classic arcade games or a game of pool while you sip some cheap, yet tasty drinks. In this intimate setting, you’ll be sure to make some new friends on the dance floor and call this a new favorite.
For a low-key, classy evening with friends…
is a cozy wine and tapas bar in a beautiful candlelit atmosphere. The owners and waitstaff can provide you with facts from their ever-expanding knowledge of wine when you try something new from their extensive menu. Order some baked brie or salami to share over conversation in this mellow place.
To show off your moves…
With a DJ, juke box, and live music, is perfect for a night out dancing with friends. A landmark since 1932, this classic dive bar is a favorite on Monday nights where Lady Dottie and the Diamonds belt out the best in soul and old rock covers.
To prove you’re a karaoke star…
With a 1960s stuck-in-a-time-capsule feel, is a good old-fashioned steak house that also has live karaoke with a live band! Belt out your favorites amidst the gold-flecked wallpaper and dark wood paneling surrounding their classic piano bar. From slow-dancing grandparents to youngins enjoying the kitsch, this is a must-see in San Diego.
For beer-loving sports fans,
, dubbed “The Hoppiest Place on Earth,” is a Belgian beer-lovers dream. If you’d like to discover some new brews, they even have selections of 3 oz. tasters to enjoy. Devour some delicious classic pub food while you relax with some friends and catch a soccer game on one of their TVs.
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San Diego?
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November 20th, 2007 by jamie a
The Aero Club is just one of the many San Diego places offering free wi-fi
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Wherever your travels take you, we know you love to stay connected. Here’s our list of San Diego Wi-Fi hotspots to help you out! From hotels to delis and cozy dive bars, you’ll find plenty of places to get your internet fix.
Lucky for you, the offers free wi-fi (unlike many airports) so no more waiting to find service when you arrive!
To begin your trip, here are some hotels that offer free wi-fi so you won’t have to stray very far at all if you need to be connected. There’s the , any of the locations, or .
If you’d like to grab some breakfast, coffee, or lunch, there’s a myriad of choices! There’s , , , and , which serve everything from coconut lattes to quiche and top-notch espresso. also serves breakfast burritos, paninis, signature sandwiches, salads, and soups.
If you like to treat yourself while you work, head on over to the , a fabulous dive bar with free wi-fi, pool and 20 beers on tap. is also a great choice with a cozy atmosphere and delicious comfort food.
For dessert, check out for fresh Korean-style fro-yo with eclectic toppings like pomegranate seeds and coco pebbles!
Planning a trip to
San Diego?
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Go San Diego Card.
November 12th, 2007 by jamie a
Kono’s Cafe
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No matter what cuisine strikes your fancy, this guide to restaurants in San Diego will keep both your stomach and wallet happy!
A stroll away from Pacific Beach lies an American cuisine hotspot with a patio overlooking the ocean. Hang out with the local beach bums while you chow down on “Kono’s potatoes” and piping hot stacks of pancakes. Hailed the quintessential San Diego breakfast, it’s also amazingly cheap.
For a delectable bowl of amazing noodles, check out for Vietnamese cuisine. At $6 a bowl, this place attracts families and twenty-somethings alike, both out to get their fill of beef pho with delicious green onions, Sriracha sauce (made from chile peppers, vinegar, salt, sugar, and garlic), or Hoisin sauce. Get ready for a traditional Vietnamese dining experience with all the authentic flavors you can imagine.
Look no further than for some yummy Mediterranean flavors. From homemade hummus and falafel to beef shawarma and stuffed grape leaves, this place has something for everyone. Enjoy the lovely outdoor seating and top off your meal with some homemade baklava.
Voted one of the best Italian delis in the city, give a try! Known for their huge portions, freshly baked bread, and entirely homemade ingredients, try the sopressata, salami, and sweet Italian sausage on any of their torpedo sandwiches.
A great local bar right by the beach, is known as a perfect hangout spot. With amazing fish tacos, peel & eat shrimp, oysters, steamers, and tostadas, you won’t leave hungry! Bring your friends, grab some drinks and stop in for happy hour from Monday-Friday from 3-6 pm and save with the . After dinner, you can even take a stroll down the beach.
Planning a trip to
San Diego?
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November 6th, 2007 by jamie a
dining in Old Town
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Being from the East Coast, I’m sure my experiences with Mexican cuisine pale in comparison to those of the West Coasters. While you’re in San Diego, do yourself a favor and try some authentic Mexican fare. Once you’re home, who knows when you’ll be able to have a handmade tortilla or carne asada fajitas again!
At Cafe Coyote & Cantina in Old Town, you can sit on the patio and watch tortillas being made right before your eyes. A colorful restaurant brimming with vibrant personality, this spot’s got everything from breakfast margaritas to tamales made on site!
Since 1933, Las Quatro Milpas (”The Four Cornfields”) has been delighting guests with homestyle Mexican food at low, low prices. This hole-in-the-wall is known for its Chorizo con Huevos for breakfast and the rolled tacos and carnitas burritos are said to be heavenly. This spot attracts a line down the block, so it’s best to go early so you don’t have to wait in line very long.
Voted both “Best Mexican” and “Best Margarita” in 2007, El Agave serves the finest in Mexican Nouvelle cuisine. This impressive spot also has specialties such as mole, a European and Asian influenced curry, and over 1700 different kinds of tequila. If you’re in the mood for the best margarita of your life, head on over here! The wait staff is also familiar with giving suggestions for your drinks if you’re up for trying something new.
For 24-hour cravings, hit up Roberto’s Taco Shop, an authentic hole-in-the-wall taco stand. The locals recommend ordering your burrito “wet.” It costs a bit more, but comes out ready for your fork covered in delicious cheese and enchilada sauce. There’s a drive-thru for those on the go, or you can eat your carne adsada fries loaded with guacamole right there on the side of the road.
At El Zarape, you’d be crazy not to order their scallop, lobster, or fish tacos and burritos. With meat, health-concious, and vegetarian options, any palate will be pleased. There’s also a salsa bar to test your spice-level tolerance, so of course you have to try them all.
Planning a trip to
San Diego?
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November 5th, 2007 by amy c
Hotel Del Coronado
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The small island town of Coronado, connected to the mainland by the iconic Coronado Bridge, is a great vacation spot, offering restaurants, award winning beaches, shopping, and sightseeing. A resort community with a taste of Mexico, Coronado is a tourist favorite and the ultimate nearby getaway for locals.
Hop on the Coronado Ferry in Downtown San Diego for a quick, scenic ride to the charming island.
Coronado is the perfect cycling city. It’s flat paved roads and multitudes of bike riders make every destination easily accessible by bicycle. Pick up your own set of wheels at PeDel’s Bike Rentals, located at the historic where celebrities, presidents, and dignitaries have stayed and where Some Like it Hot was filmed.
Our own Shannon B. recommends grabbing gelato from one of the hotel’s many restaurants and bars and enjoying the treat on the award-winning beach. The Travel Channel recently rated the Del’s beach the second best in the country, known for picturesque sunsets, gentle waves, and a long stretch of white sand.
Even if you can’t afford to stay in the ritzy hotel, you can still enjoy the architectural beauty of the building and the history with the Hotel Del Coronado Walking Tour.
Just two blocks from the “Del” is another city landmark that will bring you back to an era of glamor. Tent City, a makeshift resort opened in 1900, quickly becoming a popular and fashionable destination for summer vacationers. Attracting authors, actors, presidents, and those looking for a slightly more rustic beach-side vacation. Today, the celebrates this era of Coronado history with casual, sophisticated dining, specializing in fresh California-eclectic cuisine.
A leisurely stroll through Coronado will give you a chance to soak up the beauty and history of the quaint island. The will take you on a 90-minute tour of Coronado’s most famous buildings, offering insight into why this unique place has been a famous playground to celebrities.
Offering a daily happy hour from 2-6, the is another perfect place to stop in for one or two or three of famous hand-crafted beers. You can also enjoy a full meal, including pizzas and calzones made in wood fire ovens. Casual, family dining and the daily sports coverage makes this restaurant a Coronado favorite.
Planning a trip to
San Diego?
Read about attractions, tours, discounts, and more with the
Go San Diego Card.
