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Mardi Gras San Diego

Thursday, January 26th, 2012

French for “Fat Tuesday,” Mardi Gras originally marked the last night of rich, fatty food and drink before the ritual fasting the occurs during Lent, which begins on Ash Wednesday a mere day later. Mardi Gras is also often used synonymously with the Carnival (or Carnevale) season.

While many have forgotten those traditional religious ties, even lengthening the period to include whole days and weeks of celebration, Mardi Gras still remains a festive period for food, fun, drinks, and a bit of debauchery—a time to enjoy life with friends and loved ones. This year, Mardi Gras proper is on February 21. While we can’t all be in New Orleans to celebrate, there are still tons of great events right here in San Diego.

Little Italy Carnevale

Presented by the Little Italy Association, San Diego will play host to the 9th Annual Little Italy Carnevale. The event reflects the Carnevale celebration occurring in the city of Venice in Italy. The Little Italy Association will present tons of fun and entertainment, from gondola rides to free food. Make sure to snag your own Passaporto di Carnevale, which will give the times and locations of the entertainment as well as a list of participating businesses where you can get your passport stamped.

This year the celebration will be held on Saturday, February 18th from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on India Street between Hawthorn and Cedar. Last year saw over 12,000 attendees. Make sure to grab your masks and other traditional Venetian Carnevale regalia—you’re sure to have a fun time.

The Hillcrest Mardi Gras Street Party

Hosted by the Greater San Diego Business Association’s Charitable Foundation and the Hillcrest Business Association, the Hillcrest Mardi Gras Street Party is held every year and is patterned after the annual Mardi Gras celebration held in New Orleans. This year will be the party’s 10th celebration.

Growing steadily over the years, the Hillcrest Mardi Gras Street Party is expected to be huge in its tenth year. The event offers local San Diegans the opportunity to experience Mardi Gras without having to spend tons of money. Featuring food, drinks, live entertainment, costumes, and beads, the Hillcrest Mardi Gras Street Party promises to be a raucous, fun-filled evening. This year, the party will feature a large dance stage, giving you that nightclub feel in the streets of Hillcrest.

Proceeds and donations from the event will go to benefit both the GSDBA Foundation and the Hillcrest Business Association. The GSDBA Charitable Foundation will use proceeds to provide college scholarships to LGBT youth and allies in the San Diego community. The Hillcrest Business Association will use its proceeds to ensure a thriving, vibrant community with an outstanding business presence. In the last ten years, the Hillcrest Mardi Gras Street Party has raised over $160,000 that has gone towards LGBT youth scholarships and neighborhood improvement.

Be there February 21st at University Avenue between First and Fourth from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

San Diego Brazil Carnival Ball 2012

Another yearly event, the San Diego Brazil Carnival Ball will be hosting its 20th celebration this year. The ball is held all Saturday evening, starting at 9:00 p.m. and ending early Sunday morning at 1:30 a.m. The venue for the event is 4th and B.

The annual ball will feature plenty of fun and entertainment, including Carnival bands, parades, capoeira performances, beads, and much more. The star of this event is the Spectacular Samba Show. Rich in color and beauty, the show will feature dancers in glittering costumes adorned with beads, sequins, and feathers accompanied by percussionists playing the authentic rhythms of Rio de Janeiro.

Mardi Gras in the Gaslamp Quarter

A recent tradition, the corporate-sponsored party in the Gaslamp Quarter began in 2005 and has quickly gained popularity. While the line-up still remains to be announced, the party promises to feature multiple stages, a massive masquerade parade, live performances, international DJ talent, and elaborately themed areas, on top of the usual good times, good food, good drinks, and good company.

If you’re in for a fun night, visit the Gaslamp Quarter on February 21st from 6:00 p.m. to midnight. Advance tickets are $20 but you can buy tickets at the entry gate on the day of the event for $25.

Have fun celebrating the joie de vivre!

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Thanksgiving in San Diego: Freshen up the holiday with a weekend getaway!

Tuesday, November 1st, 2011

Every year the entire family gets together for a day filled with food preparation, a big feast, a little football, and a huge nap afterwards. Maybe your Thanksgiving Day varies slightly, but there are plenty of ways to spice up the holiday usually focused solely around delicious turkey legs and gravy. San Diego is lucky enough to have great weather at the end of November—clear, sunny skies with that nostalgic autumn crisp in the air—which creates a lot of great opportunities for changing up how your family celebrates Thanksgiving. Here are a few San Diego-inspired ideas to add a unique twist this year and bring the family closer together with new memories.

Run a Turkey Trot: A popular new way to spend Thanksgiving morning is to head out and go for a run with thousands of other people for a good cause. All of the local turkey trots are charity events raising funds for causes like feeding the poor (such as Father Joe’s 5k Run). Bring the entire family for the short run with your local neighbors and spread the love this Thanksgiving. There will still be plenty of time to head home and cook the turkey; plus, with those extra calories burned, you can help yourself to another slice of pumpkin pie!

Mother Goose Parade: If running isn’t your cup of hot apple cider or you have young kids in tow, the Mother Goose Parade in El Cajon is one of the most popular Thanksgiving Day events in San Diego and is a perfect family festivity. You can spend time with your family enjoying the dozens of beautiful floats, marching bands, celebrities, and even wave hello to Santa Claus when he shows up to kick off the most wonderful time of the year.

New Turkey Recipe: Have you baked your turkey in the oven for several hours every single year since you can remember? While that’s always delicious, there are a few new trends gaining popularity in San Diego that will completely change your opinion of a Thanksgiving turkey.

  • San Diego is the perfect place to try your first barbecued turkey. Spend the day cooking outdoors and taste one of the most delicious turkeys you’ll ever try.
  • Some people will even deep fry their turkey which makes it crispy on the outside and really juicy on the inside, often an impossible task when baking it all day.
  • You can intertwine the local Mexican culture by taking the traditional turkey and combining it with the famous Mexican mole sauce that will give it a slightly sweet and rich, spicy flavor when all is said and done.

Creative Ideas to Give Thanks: It is never too late to start a family tradition. Thanksgiving is centered on giving thanks for what you have, no matter how small or big. Sometimes we all get wrapped up in our own lives throughout the year and forget to acknowledge what we are thankful for. Get some crafty, festive paper from an art supply store, and cut autumn leaf-shaped pieces for each person at the table. You can decorate them however you wish (glitter, rhinestones, colorful ribbon). Include the leaf and a pen with each person’s table setting. Everyone can take a moment to write down what they’re thankful for, and then you can go around the table and give everyone a turn to speak. This is especially fun for kids to help out with, and brings Thanksgiving back to the basics for a few minutes—spending some time listening to one another and feeling grateful for life’s blessings.

Family Football Game: Instead of sitting around the TV and watching the Cowboys and Lions play yet another Thanksgiving Day game, your family can burn a few calories and get a little competitive with your own football game. Head down to your local high school or park and you will find several families and friends enjoying a morning game. After a good game of family football you will have earned the right to stuff your face with stuffing and mashed potatoes later that day.

Dine Out or Take Out: While it seems somewhat non-traditional to dine out or order take out for the big family meal, the stress it will take off of people’s shoulders (or should we say, Mom’s shoulders) will free up a lot of time to enjoy each other’s company. The entire day can be spent playing football, running a turkey trot, going on a family bike ride or run down to the beach, and spending quality time together. This is an especially good idea for those holiday vacationers enjoying a San Diego beach rental—why spend the day in the kitchen during your time off?  Just make sure to do your research in advance to find the restaurant that will best suit your taste buds.

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Best Music Venues in San Diego

Thursday, June 30th, 2011

As a burgeoning city with deep roots, San Diego is a very popular place to live and visit featuring a wide expanse of diverse backgrounds. It is no wonder that it plays host to so many bands from all over the world, attracting talent from all genres.

The fair city of San Diego is home to dozens of music venues. Some are famous and have quite a long history, while others are new and reflect changing trends. Regardless, many of these music venues provide a quality experience for all concert goers.

Here are some of the best music venues in San Diego.

Epicentre

By day, the Epicentre is a youth center that provides services to teenagers from all walks of life. Epicentre offers a computer lab, pool tables, ping pong tables, and a large dance floor as well as classes in music production, song writing, and other subjects.

The Epicentre, located oddly in suburban Mira Mesa, becomes a great music venue for by night featuring local San Diego bands and underground artists from all over the country. Boasting a maximum capacity of 525 and some of the best audio equipment, the Epicentre may be one of the best places to see that indie act you’ve always been a fan of.

Lestat’s West

Lestat’s West originally started as a musical side for Lestat’s Coffee House but has grown as its own entity, hosting all sorts of music acts, from national touring artists to talented locals.

Located in Normal Heights, the venue is known for its intimate, artist-friendly atmosphere and the best sound production that most any live venue has to offer. You can owe the great sound to the Lestat’s West experienced sound engineer, adding support to the venue’s motto: “Where the Artist, the Music, and the Sound Matter.”

The House of Blues

Although it is one of the newer clubs in the downtown San Diego area, the House of Blues attracts hundreds of national touring artists.

The House of Blues in San Diego opened in 2005 and has since become the premier venue for live music, hosting of the best musical acts in the world as well as its own unique productions and events. The venue also includes a full bar and a restaurant, giving you dinner and a show all under one roof.

SOMA

SOMA can be found in downtown San Diego, right next to the sports arena. Its name derives from its own location “South of Market”. Though it was originally known as a dance club when it was established in 1986, SOMA quickly transitioned to a live music venue.

SOMA’s claims to be one of the best all ages venues in the Southern California area and has a strict alcohol-free policy, creating a safe live music environment.

The former dance club has hosted a wide variety of musical acts, from young local bands looking for a break to national touring acts.

The Casbah

Located near downtown San Diego, this nightclub and music venue has hosted some of the most famous bands and artists in the world.

The Casbah first opened in 1989 and hosted some great bands of old, including Nirvana and The Smashing Pumpkins. Unfortunately, the nightclub’s first location could only hold 75 people at any one time.

In 1994, the Casbah moved just down the road to a larger location with a capacity of over 200 individuals. This second location features an enclosed smoking patio, a full bar, and a back room with pool tables, pinball machines, and a Galaga arcade machine.

The Belly Up Tavern

The Belly Up Tavern, which can be found in Solana Beach, is internationally acclaimed and historically known for bringing some of the greatest live music to the San Diego area. Belly Up Tavern has been voted “San Diego’s Best Live Music Venue” on multiple occasions by local publications and even named as one of the best clubs on the West coast by Rolling Stone Magazine.

The Belly Up features an amazing sound system in a large, open space, perfect for raucous crowds. Two full bars and an attached restaurant offer a complete night out for those who prefer a soundtrack with their dining.  Coupled with some of the best line-ups that the music world has to offer, the Belly Up Tavern promises one of the best live music experiences in the city.

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Cocktails! Top 6 Pacific Beach Happy Hours

Wednesday, May 4th, 2011

If you have never visited Pacific Beach then you might not understand how the culture and vibe is completely different than anywhere else in San Diego County. No matter where you’re standing, a quality bar serving cheap drinks and delicious food or appetizers is only a stone’s throw away. The beaches are beautiful and packed with gorgeous people too. With 70% of the days filled with that wonderful San Diego sunshine we have all come to love, the slightly crowded but tight nit community of Pacific Beach is always out and about enjoying the fresh air.

The mornings are refreshing, and locals take advantage of it. You can go on long bike rides on the beach or through the nearby hills, take on some nature hikes, rollerblade down the boardwalk or go for a jog on the beach. But once that sun is high up in the sky and starting its way back down, the entire city really comes to life.

With sunset on the horizon, all of the freshly tanned bodies begin looking for a good place to eat and drink. Pacific Beach is a young community and generally speaking, the people that live there are always looking for a cheap eat and beverage. The bars took notice to their clientele’s demands and now not only does Pacific Beach have the most bars per capita in San Diego, they also have the top ranked happy hours in the county. From half off of everything on the menu to $1.50 pints and tacos, there is always a happy hour available no matter what time of day it is or what you are looking for. There are several great websites trying to keep track of every single happy hour, but this short list of the top 6 will be a good place for you to start your culinary and beverage adventures in Pacific Beach.

1.  Cass Street Bar & Grill – Hands down the most legendary bar in Pacific Beach is Cass Street, and they deserve that title for a good reason – awesome happy hour. There is no other place in San Diego where you can get pitchers of microbrew for $7.50. To top it off, they compliment their laid back atmosphere with a shuffle board, pool tables, and great food (for cheap).

Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 3-6 p.m., Tuesday 3 p.m.-Close, Sunday 9 p.m.-Close $2.25 Domestic & $2.75 Microbrew Drafts, $3 House Wine, $7.50 Microbrew Pitchers / Sat-Sun 9 a.m.-1 p.m., $4 Bloody Marys, $4.25 Pints, $15 Pitchers of Mimosas.

2. The Tap Room – If you are a beer geek like the rest of us, the Tap Room is your place to sip some suds and revel in happy hour prices. With forty-four unique beers on draft to choose from, you might have to come back a few times before you can try them all. They may not have the absolute lowest prices in town, but no one can beat their selection.

Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 3-7 p.m., $1 Off Pints, $4 Off Pitchers, $3.50 Cocktails, $3.50 House Wine, $2 Off Appetizers.

3. Bar West – The first bar/night club on the list that offers a happy hour late into the night, every night (that they’re open). Great vibes and fun dancing bring out a good crowd here almost every night.

Happy Hour: Thurs-Sat 6-11 p.m., ½ Off all Drinks, $5 Sliders, Daily Bottle Service Specials.

4. Moondoggies Pacific Beach – This place is the epitome of Pacific Beach vibe and culture. A large outdoor patio lets you soak up the sun while you are sipping on their dirt cheap drinks and the multitude of flat screens inside keep all the sports fanatics happy.

Happy Hour: Mon-Thurs 3-7 p.m., Friday 3-10 p.m., $2 Wells, Wines, and Domestic Drafts, $3 Imports/Microbrew Drafts, $7 Pitchers, $10 Microbrew Pitchers, $2-$6 Munchie Menu (Plus Taco Tuesday and Wing Wednesday).

5. Pacific Beach Ale House – Another stop for the beer geek is the PB Ale House where they brew their own beer. A great location, large venue with plenty of seating, and all the beer you could want.

Happy Hour: Mon-Fri 3-6 p.m., Thursday 10 p.m.-Close, $3 House Beers, Wines, and Wells, ½ Off Appetizers.

6.  Sinbad Café & Hookah Bar – A different option on the list if sports bars aren’t your thing and you are looking to really relax, head over to Sinbad Café. Smoke a hookah and sip on the cheapest drinks in town.

Happy Hour: Monday & Wednesday All Day, all Week 4-8 p.m., $1.50 Domestic Drafts, $2.50 Import Drafts, $2 Shots & Cocktails, $4.50 Appetizers, $1.25 Tacos.

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Off the Beaten Path in San Diego

Friday, April 29th, 2011

Off the Beaten Path in San Diego

The greater San Diego area has a population of over 1.3 million residents and receives more than 30 million visitors annually. People love to visit San Diego and then never want to leave. Luckily, there are an endless number of things to do in San Diego, especially if you know where to look. While the famous attractions like Sea World, San Diego Zoo, Wild Animal Park, Legoland, and the gorgeous beaches are all well known and have a lot to offer, they are all typical destinations for visitors. If you want to get away from the crowds and see what really makes San Diego a unique city, head off the beaten path.

1.       Temecula Wine Tasting: San Diego is not yet world famous for their wines, but they are the fastest growing wine region in the U.S. Gather some friends and make it a day trip out to the Temecula wineries where you can pick one favorite and spend all day there or hop from place to place. Bring a designated driver or hire one of the tour busses in the area. You’re bound to find a new favorite wine.

2.       Unique Hikes: San Diego isn’t just an urban city; there are plenty of natural preserves, rivers, parks, and even mountains nearby. Blue sky ecological preserve, Cedar Falls, Iron Mountain, and Palomar Mountain state park are just a few of the local’s favorite hiking spots.

3.       Old Town: Although it is a well known town that gets a lot of tourists, it still shows a lot of San Diego’s history and beats all the other areas for best Mexican food restaurants. Visit El Agave for the largest selection of tequila in all of San Diego (and probably California). For some good shopping, check out the Bazaar Del Mundo.

4.       Julian Apple Pie: If you have a car or are renting one, it will be worth your time to make the trip into the mountains to the small town of Julian. They are world famous for their apple pies. When you visit, stop by Mom’s for a taste of the freshest and best apple pies around. There are plenty of unique stores and restaurants to keep you busy all day.

5.       San Diego Gliderport: Some people like a little adventure and this is the best place to get it in San Diego. The Gliderport in Torrey Pines is a great place to experience Hang Gliding or Paragliding; especially since you are flying high above the beaches and Pacific Ocean. The views are amazing and you will get that adrenaline rush you are craving. You don’t have to try the sports, watching from the sidelines is a lot of fun too. http://flytorrey.com/cms/

6.       The Topiary Gardens: If you enjoyed the Edward Scissor Hands movie, you will love Harper’s Topiary Gardens. Edna Harper turned her lush backyard into an outdoor museum of sculptures. She has carved more than 50 creatures out of the gardens including a dinosaur, elephants, surfer, and even Buddha. The most surprising thing about the gardens is that they are located downtown near the airport. http://sandiego.about.com/od/thingstodo/a/topiary_garden.htm

7.       Cinema Under the Stars: Located in the back of Doug Yeagley’s Tops hair salon in Mission Hills, the Cinema Under the Stars is a perfect way to spend an evening during the warmer months in San Diego. If you are looking for a good addition to a romantic date night, this is a must stop. This isn’t like your typical drive-in theater; it is a classy venue with comfortable seats, service, and classic films like Casablanca. http://www.topspresents.com/

8.       ARCO Olympic Training Center: Not many tourists have heard about the Olympic training center in San Diego and it is a little out of the way, but the 20-30 minute drive is worth the unique experience. Located down south in Chula Vista, the center is for prospective Olympic athletes of almost every sport; even bobsledding. There is housing on site for the athletes but the center is also a good resource for local athletes looking to make it to the next level. There is a good visitor center and a lot of ways you can enjoy watching the training. http://www.teamusa.org/about-usoc/u-s-olympic-training-center-chula-vista

9.       Unique bars: If there is one industry that is booming in San Diego, it is craft beer. Instead of trying to stop in all 45 different breweries around the county, just visit the best and most unique beer bars in town. The Blind Lady Ale House and Toronado are two local favorites; though busy, they are absolutely worth the wait. They offer some of the world’s best beers on draft, so plan on spending the entire evening tasting a few brews.

10.   Kate Sessions Park: Last but not least is San Diego’s favorite park. Kate Sessions sits atop a hill that overlooks Mission Bay and downtown San Diego. You can see for miles on a clear day. The park always has active groups playing sports, friends and families having barbecues, and kids’ birthday parties. The sunsets are especially amazing from Kate Sessions.

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Best Places to Grab a Burger in San Diego

Wednesday, April 13th, 2011

San Diego has enough 5-star fine dining restaurants along its beautiful coast line for an unlimited number of date nights, but those are not the places the locals rave about when it comes to local cuisine. If you ask a local about their go to dining spots, they will almost always tell you about their favorite burger or burrito joint. Every city has their famous one or two burger spots that everyone argues about, but San Diego is home to at least twelve amazing burger restaurants. From the hills in the east to the lively Pacific Beach, San Diegans know how to cook up a quality beef patty.

  1. In-N-Out Burger (multiple locations): Although San Diego can’t solely claim the infamous fast food burger joint, we definitely have In-N-Out running in our blood. Even vegetarians will cheat when it comes to ordering a “Double-Double Animal Style.” Fresh vegetables, beef, fries, all delivered at a low price and fast speed. This is the only fast food burger joint to make the list, and it easily holds a place in the hearts of more San Diegans than any other burger place.
  2. Hodad’s (Ocean Beach): “No shirt, no shoes, no problem” is the motto at this laid back beach venue. Hodad’s sticks to the burger basics and gets it right every single time. Ranked on CNN’s list as one of the top five burger joints in the country, this is definitely a place worth visiting. They have great prices, large patties, delicious bacon, and fresh ingredients. Just be careful not to go there when you are too hungry, you are likely to wait in a long line to taste one of their juicy burgers.
  3. Rocky’s Crown Pub (Pacific Beach): Easily the burger place with the most diehard and committed fans is Rocky’s in P.B. The burgers are basic and the lines are long, but Rocky’s burgers are so tasty and cheap everyone keeps coming back for more. Rocky’s and Hodad’s have a bit of a rivalry, so don’t bring up their competitor’s name when you’re inside or you risk starting a civil war in San Diego. This laid-back, cash-only joint has even fewer items on their menu than the minimalist king In-N-Out Burger. Show up early to skip the lines and enjoy a pint while you are there.
  4. Burger Lounge (multiple locations): The new chain trying to give In-N-Out a run for their money is the Burger Lounge restaurants. This chain doesn’t have a drive-thru, but the service is good and fast so you can still somewhat call it fast food. Their claim to fame is that they have “premium burgers” using only grass-fed beef and environmentally friendly principles. The prices are higher than the competition, but once you bite into the juicy burger and onion rings you will realize it was well worth it.
  5. Bare Back Grill (Pacific Beach and Gaslamp): 100% organic beef ground daily and locally grown veggies is the big selling point at Bare Back and it seems to be working quite well. There burger has won numerous “best burger in San Diego” awards over the years and they are still pumping out deliciously giant burgers. They have more options than the first four on the list and are a little classier too. Prices are getting up to $10 per burger but you are guaranteed to walk away full. Skip the fries if you are picky, they aren’t what the restaurant is known for.
  6. Phil’s BBQ (Point Loma and San Marcos): This delicious barbecue joint is more known for their ribs but they throw together a char-grilled BBQ burger that locals are whispering great things about. Like the other top places though, expect to be tempted by the delicious barbeque smells while suffering in a long line.
  7. The Linkery (North Park): This place is a national award winning gastro pub that serves high quality craft beers alongside their farm fresh food, creating a perfect combo for us San Diegans. Their farm-to-table strategy means that they create the menu according to what is currently available and in season at local farms. The burgers are especially flavorful with organic grass fed beef sourced from the Tallgrass Beef Farmers cooperative.
  8. Tioli’s Crazee Burger (North Park): Hands down, Crazee Burger is the home of San Diego’s craziest burgers around. They do not serve anything you will find at the other eleven burger joints on this list. Try your hand at an alligator, kangaroo, or lamb burger, just to name a few. If you are up for a little culinary adventure, this is the place to go.
  9. Cheers (Ramona): A local dive bar with live music and… world famous cheeseburgers. The bar is at least a 30 minute drive for most San Diegans but it still draws a crowd for their oversized and extremely tasty burgers. Nothing extraordinarily fancy there, just burgers done the right way.
  10. Nessy Burgers (Fallbrook): Since 1989, Nessy’s has been making high quality burgers just off the 15 and highway 76. A little out of the way if you live downtown, but the perfect pit stop for road trips. The locally sourced beef and ingredients could easily compete with the rest of San Diego’s best if it was not so far out of the way.
  11. The Waterfront Bar and Grill (Little Italy): If you are planning to head downtown, this should be your starting point for the night. Load up on great beer, free popcorn, and delicious burgers. This San Diego staple has been around since just after prohibition ended and the likes of Wyatt Earp are said to have frequented here during its early days. A lot has changed since then, but their half pound burgers are just as good as ever.
  12. The Encinitas Ale House (Encinitas): Although this place changed itself into a beer connoisseur’s hang out, they still have their famous Kobe beef burgers to pair with that Belgium brew. Located all the way up in the laid back beach town of Encinitas, this place serves what they call “locally world famous burgers & ales.” Come in on a Tuesday for a deal that can’t be beat, two burgers for the price of one.

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Best Mexican Food Restaurants in San Diego

Tuesday, March 29th, 2011

San Diego has a lot of different restaurants to choose from, but it’s a great idea to sample a lot of Mexican cuisine while visiting the area because you can get a taste of some real, authentic Mexican food unlike any you’ve ever encountered. San Diego’s close proximity to Mexico has a lot of influence, of course, so the area has some of the best seafood tacos and Tijuana-style Mexican food that America has to offer.

These recommendations are based on authentic Mexican food rather than American or Tex-Mex style Mexican food. And most are cheap or inexpensive, although there is some gourmet Mexican thrown into the mix.

Super Cocina – 3627 University Avenue, San Diego

Super Cocina offers some of the best home-style Mexican food available, prepared by Mexicans who bring their own family recipes into the rotation of over 100 dishes that change daily. You may not be able to return the next day (or week) to eat the same dish twice, but this means their food is always fresh and you’ll be forced to try other equally wonderful dishes. Located east of North Park, past the 805 Freeway, this is one Mexican Food Restaurant you can’t pass up.

Super Cocina is a buffet-style restaurant, so this is the place to try a lot of samples, as well as get some good recommendations, before loading up your plate. You’ll find plenty of meat on the bone cooked in rich and flavorful sauces and spices, in addition to rice and bean-based side dishes, rather than the tacos and burritos you might be expecting.

Tacos El Paisa – 3096 National Avenue; 840 South 47th Street; 2494 Imperial Avenue, San Diego

Since Tacos El Paisa may have the best mini street tacos San Diego has to offer, plan to order three or four. The juicy carnitas tacos melt in your mouth, and the carne asada and adobada also come highly recommended. You order from a street cart, bring your order over to a truck where the food is prepared inside, and they bring it to you at your outdoor seating location. The top-notch salsa and condiment bar is also served to you right at your table, so you can add as much or as little as you like as you go along, with a chance to customize everything to your liking.

Las Cuatro Milpas – 1875 Logan Avenue, San Diego

Don’t let the long lines, peeling paint, or limited menu options dissuade you. Las Cuatro Milpas has been serving authentic, old school Mexican food for over 75 years, and you can’t find this style of food at any other hole in the wall Mexican joint. While the atmosphere has room for improvement, the long lines full of San Diego locals are an indication of how much the food is worth the wait, and the six or seven items on the menu make it easier to order. The traditional tacos are simple and the rolled tacos are authentic. Every order is served with warm tortillas, which go wonderfully with the chorizo rice and beans as a side dish.

El Cuervo Taco Shop – 110 West Washington Street, San Diego

For the best hole in the wall San Diego neighborhood Mexican joint, visit El Cuervo Taco Shop. While dozens of San Diego taco shops have more or less the same menu, the food here has a thoughtful preparation through which you can taste a difference, placing it above your average hole in the wall. For basic Mexican food that the locals prefer, a tasty salsa bar, low prices, and reliable service, El Cuervo is your best bet.

Cockteleria La Playita – 5185 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, San Diego

In the tiny Cockteleria La Playita, you can sit at the small counter sipping on a seafood cocktail as you watch a single person prepare your food on a four-burner stove. The small menu offers seafood items only, but everything is extremely fresh, flavorful, and simple. The fish tacos are not your usual fish taco, served with breaded fish instead of battered and lettuce instead of cabbage. The ceviche is some of the best in San Diego, and the ceviche tostada comes highly recommended.

Ranas Mexico City Cuisine – 9683 Campo Road, Spring Valley

Although not in the heart of San Diego, the food at Ranas Mexico City Cuisine is worth the drive and is considered the best East County Mexican food available. Although it is located in a strip mall, the food is authentic Mexico City style cuisine, as the restaurant’s name suggests, and they have an extensive menu coupled with great service. This is a great choice if you want to get away from the “hole in the wall” style Mexican joints you’ll find all over San Diego and have a casual sit-down dinner. The cochinita pibil, alambres, and al pastor tacos are all great recommendations, or simply try one of the main entrée choices.

Candelas Restaurant – 416 3rd Avenue, San Diego

For gourmet Mexican food, fine dining, and unique authentic dishes, Candelas Restaurant is the top choice in San Diego. Fine dining and Mexican food don’t always go hand in hand, so Candelas is not to be missed if that’s the combination you’re looking for. Candelas is in a great location just a few blocks away from the Gaslamp Quarter. You can enjoy appetizers, soups, salads, entrees, desserts, and cocktails, and the portion sizes are larger than what you would expect from the gourmet portion sizes found in many American restaurants, making Candelas a distinctly central-Mexico experience.

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Guide to San Diego Microbreweries

Tuesday, March 15th, 2011

San Diego is known for beautiful beaches, temperate weather, a relaxing atmosphere, and tourists. One aspect of San Diego leisure life that locals enjoy, but few visitors have the chance to experience, is the extensive array of local microbreweries. As quintessentially San Diegan as surfers, trends in brewing have placed San Diego on the international beer map. Below is a guide to the top breweries, brands, and brewing companies throughout San Diego.

Local Favorites:

Stone Brewing Company: 1999 Citracado Parkway Escondido, CA 92029 (760) 471-4999

Known for brews with “big character,” Stone beers are widely loved by locals and beer connoisseurs across the country. Traditionally untraditional, the different Saisons, IPAs, ales, and more have just one thing in common: hops. The location is out of the way for most visitors, but it is worth the drive. They have not only delicious beer, but also excellent food, and an increasingly popular tour of the brewery. Bold names like “Arrogant Bastard” are a perfect fit for their bold flavors. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, Stone is sure to impress.

Ballast Point: 10051 Old Grove Rd. San Diego, CA 92131(858) 695-2739 (Main Brewery)

5401 Linda Vista Road San Diego, CA 92110 (619) 298-2337 (Home Brew Mart & Tasting Room)

An excellent contrast to Stone’s bold style, the second most popular local brew in the County is Ballast Point Brewery. More about the subtle nuances of flavor and less about the big power, most Ballast Point beers are agreeable to every palate. Each beer is named after a fish – Wahoo Wheat, Yellowtail Pale Ale, Big Eye IPA, etc.  This brewery began as a Home Brew Mart in Linda Vista, and quickly grew too big for its britches. You can now find the same old store and tasting room in Linda Vista, but the majority of the brewing happens in the Scripps Ranch area. Be sure to check out their interesting, but laid-back tour, and taste to your heart’s desire!

Lost Abbey: 155 Mata Way #104, San Marcos, CA 92069 (800) 918-6816

Inspired by the Abbey-style brews of monastic tradition, Lost Abbey was developed by local Pizza Port Brewers in 2006. Toeing the line between good and evil, these Lost brews play with religious influences in the naming of their beers – Devotion, Gift of the Magi, Serpent’s Stout, Judgment Day, etc. Regardless, the quality is consistent, and their unique take on Abbey-style beers has granted them more than one national award.  If you’re into Belgian-style brews, make Lost Abbey a destination during your time in San Diego.

Lightning Brewery:  13200 Kirkham Way, Poway, CA 92064 (858) 513 – 8070

Just like most great breweries, Lightning was founded by a home brewer. While brewing by night, his day job was in biochemistry, and Lightning Brewery uses science—biological and chemical processes—to brew great beer. They offer a variety of brews, often in the German style, and frequently win awards for each. Their most recent achievements were at the California State Fair in Sacramento. The team took seven beers to the event, and brought seven medals home.

Green Flash: 1430 Vantage Ct, Suite 104 Vista, CA 92081 (858) 622-0085

Named for the unexplainable “green flash” that occurs during sunset on the seashore, this quintessentially San Diegan brewery creates delicious West Coast Ales, as well as Belgian-inspired specialties. Their refusal to stay inside the box has led to a number of hybrid styles including their West Coast IPA and Le Freak Belgian IPA. Instead of forcing traditional styles and flavors, they prefer to let the hybrids create new categories in brewing.

Alesmith: 9368 Cabot Drive San Diego, CA 92126 858-549-9888

Inspired by the traditional styles of British and Belgian Beers, Alesmith is an artisan microbrewery specializing in – you guessed it – ales. In business since 1995, this team of brewers lives and breathes beer. The founder, Peter Zien, is San Diego’s only Grand Master Level One Beer Judge, which is one of the Beer Judge Certification Program’s highest ratings.

Pizza Port: 571 Carlsbad Village Carlsbad, CA 92008 (760) 720-7007 (Main Brewery)

Albeit an uncommon name for a brewery, Pizza Port offers gourmet pizzas alongside their deliciously handcrafted beers. While each of the 4 locations offers beers from across the country, they also serve about 10-15 of their creations on any given day. A few crowd favorites throughout Southern California include Downtown Brown, and Carlsbad Cream Ale. If you’re looking for a place to eat excellent pizza and enjoy some delicious brews without all the hullabaloo of most other breweries, Pizza Port is the place to go.

Honorable Mentions:

  • Firehouse Brewing
  • Coronado Brewing
  • Karl Strauss Brewery
  • Gordon Biersch
  • Rock Bottom Brewery
  • Mother Earth Brew Company

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    Best Places to Get a Sandwich in Mission Beach

    Thursday, March 3rd, 2011

    San Diego is home to the world’s best sunsets, beaches, and sandwiches. Every true San Diegan has their favorite sub sandwich spot and will argue for hours about how much better their restaurant is than yours. If you are looking to test out some of San Diego’s finest subs, the Mission Beach area is your best bet. With one of the highest concentrations of sandwich shops in the city and the most diehard sandwich fans, it will be hard not to eat one of the best sandwiches you will ever have. Every local will give you a different answer to the question “where is the best sandwich place?” but you can decide for yourself by testing out one of these top restaurants. Please, whatever you do, stay away from the Subways and Quiznos of the world; they give quality sandwiches a bad name.

    1. Rubicon – Their website offers up the definition of Rubicon as “the point of no return,” meaning that once you eat a Rubicon sandwich you will never be able to eat at another sandwich place. Thousands of locals with full bellies will happily agree with that definition. Rubicon is a top notch deli with a social atmosphere that keeps customers coming back time and again. Treat yourself to their famous spicy tuna sandwich to truly understand why this place number one on the list. http://www.therubicondeli.com/
    2. Café Mono – All the locals agree that Café Mono is the Panini king of Mission Beach and Pacific Beach. Their French and Italian roots show in the quality and quantity of food served at a price that makes you feel like you are stealing from them. You can also treat yourself to some gelato for dessert or one of their famous cappuccinos. Café Mono may be smack-dab in the center of tourist town, but the locals all show up for their delicious Paninis. Even the standard Turkey Panini is to die for. http://www.cafemonosd.com/
    3. Sneak Joint SD – The best beach bar in San Diego is also home to some of San Diego’s most delicious cuisine. With sandwiches like the “Ultimate Turkey” or burgers such as the “Spicy Chili Guacamole” that are designed to knock you off your seat, it is hard to beat this local favorite. With daily specials, great beer, and arguably some of the best sandwiches in all of San Diego, you can’t miss this place on your tour of sandwich restaurants. Remember to try their famous sweet potato fries, you will not be disappointed. http://www.sneakjointsd.com/
    4. Olde City Grill – Just up the street from Mission Beach is the true Philly cheese steak style sandwich joint Olde City Grill. Run by Philadelphians, this favorite locale uses fresh quality ingredients such as Kobe beef and gives us San Diegans a taste of what Philly is really like. The menu is slightly geared to our Mission Beach taste buds, but that only adds to the restaurant’s greatness. If you don’t know what to try here, just stick to the classic cheese steak. If you are up for a challenge and possibly a heart attack, order “The Triple Bypass” and say your prayers. http://www.oldecitygrill.com/
    5. Which Wich? – Rounding out the top five is the new trendy sub sandwich spot Which Wich? In the Pacific Beach area. Aside from delicious sandwiches and uber-fresh ingredients, they are famous for their innovative ordering process. Walk in, grab a sandwich bag, fill out what you want, and out comes your custom sandwich in your custom bag that you then get to doodle on while eating and add to their community wall. The fun twist on ordering creates a social atmosphere that perfectly complements the enormous sub you are munching on. This small chain blows Subway out of the water. http://www.whichwich.com/

    Honorable Mentions

    1. Poor Boy Sandwich –Poor Boy has been a local favorite of San Diego since 1988. Poor Boy has since evolved into a fresh California style restaurant with their beach and surfer chic atmosphere. http://www.yelp.com/biz/poor-boy-subs-i-san-diego
    2. Baked – The best bakery in the area also knows how to throw together a delicious Panini. The newer bakery is winning over the locals with their mouth-watering breads, sweets, and sandwiches. http://www.bakedhot.com/
    3. The Mission – They may be better known for their breakfast but they still know how to create a solid sub after you have had enough pancakes. http://www.themission1.signonsandiego.com/
    4. Voltero’s Deli – Voltero’s is a cheap eatery with great service, a perfect location and amazing cheese steaks and sandwiches.

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    San Diego’s Best Romantic Restaurants

    Friday, February 18th, 2011

    While the majority of tourists spend too much money on restaurants downtown, we’ve hand-selected six restaurants throughout San Diego that are worth every penny for a romantic night out. Whether you’re looking for the perfect spot to woo on your first date, an elegant Valentine’s Day dinner, or a comfortable night out with the one you love, any one of these restaurants is sure to deliver. (Image by Bengt Nyman)

    The Marine Room ($$$$) – La Jolla

    Located surfside at La Jolla Shores, The Marine Room boasts 70 years of exquisite cuisine and “elegant dining on the surf.” With monthly Taste of the Season menus at $50 a person, fine dining service, and delicious libations by their in-house Mixologist, this restaurant is an easy favorite. Be sure to make a reservation in advance so you can enjoy your meal with front row seats to the crashing surf. The Marine Room offers lovers an upscale environment to enjoy delicious dishes and each other’s company.

    Firefly Grill & Wine Bar ($$$) – Encinitas

    Warm decor, strong drinks, local wine, and exquisite cuisine make Firefly Grill & Wine Bar a no-brainer for this list, even if it is up in North County. Tucked off El Camino Real in Encinitas, this neighborhood gem is a combination of excellent service, clever dishes, and carefully selected wines, under the guidance of owner Jim Barasso, and Chef Paul Rinaudo. To catch a casual happy hour before the main event, consider starting in the bar for half-priced small plates, wines, and martinis any time between 4:30-6:30, 7 days a week. If you want to wine and dine your date to your fullest potential, choose from a variety of entrees from $17-$29 a plate, or moderately priced bottles from $28 – $145.  If you’d rather not make many decisions, Firefly Grill and Wine Bar offers a weekly three-course PrixFixe menu from Monday to Thursday at $30 a person, and a weekend four-course Tasting Menu from Friday through Sunday around $45 a person.

    Harney Sushi ($$) – Old Town

    For a fun first date or a lively evening out, couples rarely think of heading to Old Town. Harney Sushi is a small space, dimly-lit, with a casual atmosphere and an upbeat vibe. A premier sushi bar and restaurant, the unique pairings by Harney’s team of chefs are always sure to surprise and please your palate. With an ever-changing specialties menu, the fish is always fresh and the flavors are always vibrant.

    Cucina Urbana ($$) – Banker’s Hill

    Affordable lunch, Happy Hour deals, upscale dining, and late night munching: Cucina Urbana has it all. A warm and rustic Italian kitchen and wine shop with a farmhouse-feel, this Banker’s Hill restaurant is sure to please the harshest critics. Couples can experience the fun vibe of dining out, stripped of the pretention and high price tag. Offering specialty pizzas, in-house infused vodkas, and a wide array of California-inspired twists on traditional entrees, all for under $20 each, it’s no wonder this place is always so packed. You and your date can take a seat at the bar and chat it up with the knowledgeable bartenders, or find an isolated table away from all the excitement. Owner Tracy Borkum and Chef Joe Magnanelli combine the freshest local produce and a commitment to sustainability to create a delicious menu that is (almost!) guilt free.

    Bleu Boheme ($$$) – Kensington

    For an epic culinary experience that takes you back to the old-world bohemian and artistic style of France, Bleu Boheme is the place for you. Couples can enjoy affordable French Cuisine in a beautifully decorated space with a warm and welcoming ambiance. Choose from a variety of French reds and whites, as well as Belgian beer favorites such as Chimay and Duchesse de Bourgogne. Offering an incredibly affordable “Bohemian” three-course tasting menu at $22 during Happy Hour, your night out with your loved one doesn’t have to break the bank. The neighborhood restaurant also serves a wide array of French-influenced favorites such as cheese and meat boards, escargots, and a variety of dishes focusing on local Carlsbad black mussels.

    Anthology ($$$) – Little Italy

    Just a stone’s throw away from the Historic Gaslamp Quarter, Little Italy provides us with Anthology, an urban-themed musical lounge, bar, and restaurant tucked away from the hustle and bustle of downtown. Signature cocktails’ names are inspired by musical greats (Day Tripper, Purple Rain, etc.) and their dinner menu includes local favorites such as Ahi Sliders, and Carlsbad Blond Oysters. For classic San Diego-style dinner and music, Anthology provides the best of both worlds in one location.

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