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Court summer breezes and sweet views with a drink in hand
We did it. We made it to locals’ summer. After a seemingly long, lukewarm summer, the sun has made like Blink-182 and returned to rocking. Now that the weather is heating up, it’s time visit your favorite rooftop bar and grab a cold one to celebrate. To help plan happy-hour hangs and kick off fall romances, we rounded up 20 of our favorite rooftop bars in San Diego to check out. Here are some of the top sun-kissed patios in the city.

Walking into Seneca Trattoria is like strolling onto a luxurious cruise ship from another era. Located on the 19th floor of the InterContinental Hotel, Seneca peers down at the San Diego waterfront and offers booth seating along the perimeter. The restaurant whips up Italian eats like Wagyu bolognese pasta and wood-fired pizzas that pair well with their Mediterranean-inspired cocktails. Be sure to make a reservation and dress to impress—may we suggest Italian linen?
Address: 901 Bayfront Ct Level 19, Downtown
Hours: Sunday–Thursday, 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Friday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–11 p.m.
Reservations: OpenTable

Dine poolside and sky-high at the Rooftop at the Mission Pacific hotel. This 21-plus lounge is a great spot to mix and mingle, order refreshing cocktails, and enjoy live music from their resident DJs. Drinks at the Mission Pacific can lean toward the pricey side, but the beachfront views, classy atmosphere, and great service make it worth a little extra coin.
Address: 201 N Myers St, Oceanside
Hours: Monday–Thursday, noon–10 p.m.; Friday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–midnight; Sunday, 11 a.m.–10 p.m.
Happy Hour: Weekdays, 2–5 p.m.

Nestled in Little Italy, Coco Maya’s lush rooftop is the spot for fun island flair, killer brunch (hello, lobster caviar benedict and spicy mango ceviche), and Instagram-worthy cocktails. By day, soak up the sun with fresh flavors and colorful mimosas; by night, dive into smoky Josper-oven dishes and mezcal drinks in a lively, inviting setting.
Address: 1660 India St, Little Italy
Hours: Monday–Wednesday, 10:30 a.m.–10 p.m.; Thursday, 10:30 a.m.–11 p.m.; Friday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–midnight; Sunday, 9 a.m.–9 p.m.
Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 3–6 p.m.
Reservations: Coco Maya

High above Mission Hills, Communion crowns The Sasan with an impressive view of the whole San Diego skyline and a hyper-seasonal menu. The chic rooftop spot serves plates like squid ink risotto, lamb lollipops, and kaluga caviar, paired with cocktails crafted to play up those rich flavors. Communion was also voted critic’s pick in our annual Best Restaurants issue this year, so you know it’s going to be a good time.
Address: 901 W Washington St, Mission Hills
Hours: Monday–Wednesday, 4–8:30 p.m.; Thursday–Saturday, 4–9 p.m.; Sunday brunch, 10:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
Happy Hour: Daily, 4–6 p.m.
Reservations: Tock

Lumi, a restaurant atop the Huntress on Fifth Avenue in downtown, takes you on a culinary journey. Created by Michelin-starred celebrity chef Akira Back, Lumi turns globally sourced ingredients into colorful works of art. The rooftop eatery features booth seating for larger groups, a cocktail bar overlooking the Gaslamp strip, live DJs, and creative Japanese-Peruvian fusion plates. Crowd favorites include the tuna-topped Akira Back Pizza and the Kanpachi Ceviche.
Address: 366 Fifth Ave, Gaslamp Quarter
Hours: Sunday–Wednesday, 5:30–11 p.m.; Thursday, 5:30 p.m.–midnight; Friday, 5:30 p.m.–1:30 a.m.; Saturday, 6 p.m.–1:30 a.m.
Happy Hour: Sunday–Thursday, 5:30–6:30 p.m.
Reservations: OpenTable

One thing that didn’t change with Mister A’s 2022 renovation? The local institution’s 180-degree view of the San Diego skyline, Balboa Park, and the bayfront. The San Diego Magazine Best Restaurant winner sits on the 12th floor of the Manchester Financial building in Banker’s Hill. Impress your summer sweetheart with a fancy meal (potato-crusted sea bass and butter-poached lobster!) and complex cocktails, or make it a daytime date at the restaurant’s Jazz Brunch from every weekend.
Address: 2550 Fifth Ave 12th floor, Bankers Hill
Bar Hours: Sunday–Thursday, 3:30–10 p.m.; Friday–Saturday, 3:30–11 p.m.
Reservations: OpenTable

The Holding Company in Ocean Beach features three floors packed with dining space, bars, and a live music venue. Blocks from the beach, the restaurant is a perfect spot to catch a concert, or simply inhale chicken wings and a Screwball shot after an afternoon wandering Newport Avenue.
Address: 5046 Newport Ave, Ocean Beach
Hours: Wednesday–Friday, 4 p.m.–2 a.m.; Saturday–Sunday, noon–2 a.m.; Monday–Tuesday, closed
Happy Hour: Wednesday–Friday, 4–6 p.m.; half off select drafts, half off most spirits, and 30% off entire food menu
Private Events: The Holding Company

With more than 10,000 square feet of space, Kairoa in University Heights is a great rooftop bar for large groups. The New Zealand–inspired spot also features an in-house brewery and a private event area. Post up with a pilsner and a rack of lamb and, since Kairoa’s dog-friendly, order your furry pal some chicken and veggies from the pup menu.
Address: 4601 Park Blvd, University Heights
Hours: Monday–Tuesday, closed; Wednesday–Thursday, 4–11 p.m.; Friday, 4–11 p.m.; Saturday, noon–11 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
Reservations: OpenTable

Perched a whopping 40 stories high atop the Manchester Grand Hyatt, this sleek lounge provides a relaxed getaway from the bustling streets below. With a panoramic view of the ocean and city skyline, Top of the Hyatt is the perfect spot to unwind with its menu of unique cocktails inspired by San Diego’s neighborhoods.
Address: 1 Market Pl, Downtown
Hours: Daily, 3 p.m.–12 a.m.
Private Events: Top of the Hyatt

This North Park rooftop gem from Michelin-starred chef Drew Deckman is a fresh take on local, sustainable dining. With cozy lounge areas and sunset views, it’s a great place to unwind with creative cocktails, Baja wines, and a rotating menu of seasonal small plates. For a wallet-friendly dining experience, don’t miss the happy hour special featuring $12 dozen oysters and $10 cocktail specials.
Address: 3131 University Ave., North Park
Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 5–9 p.m.; Sunday, 4–7:30 p.m.
Happy Hour: Tuesday–Saturday, 5–6:30 p.m.
Reservations: OpenTable

Looking for one of the best views in La Jolla and one of the top Italian restaurants (named critic’s choice in our 2023 Best Restaurants issue) in San Diego? Hit both goals at Catania, which sits on Girard Avenue scant blocks away from the La Jolla Cove. A Whisknladle spot, the restaurant boasts stellar views of the ocean and dishes like duck sugo orecchiette and an assortment of Italian beers, wines, and cocktails. Be sure to get a reservation around sunset to get the most out of your rooftop Italian feast.
Address: 7863 Girard Ave 301 F3, La Jolla
Hours: Monday–Thursday, 4–8:30 p.m.; Friday, 4–9 p.m.; Saturday, 11:30 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sunday, 11:30 a.m.–8:30 p.m.
Reservations: OpenTable

Located above the Brick Hotel in Oceanside, Cococabana is a Caribbean-style rooftop bar known for its fruit-forward cocktails. Sip on tropical concoctions like the guava-grapefruit Havana Good Time, served in a copper flamingo statue, while taking in the ocean views and the lively atmosphere of Oceanside’s main street. To make the most of your visit without breaking the bank, drop by during the weekend for bottomless mimosas from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Only at the Coca… Cococabana.
Address: 408 Pier View Way Suite 401, Oceanside
Hours: Monday–Thursday, 3–10 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m.–midnight; Sunday, 10 a.m.–9 p.m.
Happy Hour: Friday, 1–4 p.m.; weekdays, 3–6 p.m., 25% off drinks for Oceanside locals
Reservations: OpenTable

Garibaldi is one of San Diego’s best-kept rooftop secrets. The Southern Italian restaurant and bar, located blocks away from the marina, features gorgeous views of the San Diego Bay. Order a spread of seafood and seasonal cocktails (we like their spiced agave Quattro Rosso) and make peace with being a little late to work tomorrow.
Address: 901 Bayfront Ct Suite 1, Downtown
Hours: Monday–Wednesday, closed; Thursday–Friday, 4:30–10 p.m.; Sunday, 4–9 p.m.
Happy Hour: Daily, 4:30 p.m.–sunset
Reservations: Resy

Leave of Absence is a rare San Diego rooftop bar with a swimming pool and the perfect chill vibes—tropical drinks, wood-fire pizzas, and poolside service. Located above Alma, just a short walk from Little Italy, it’s the ideal spot to call out of work sick and sip cocktails all day by the pool.
Address: 1047 Fifth Ave, Gaslamp Quarter
Hours: Friday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–8 p.m. (food available until 7 p.m.); Sunday, 11 a.m.–6 p.m. (food available until 5 p.m.); Monday–Thursday, closed

George’s at the Cove, a four-decade-old cliffside restaurant, features two levels of oceanfront seating in the La Jolla Cove, plus a menu full of surf and turf and salads and an almost dizzyingly long wine list. Parking can be tough around the cove, so either valet on Prospect Street or search for spots deeper into the village.
Address: 1250 Prospect St, La Jolla
Hours: Daily, 11 a.m.–10 p.m.
Reservations: Tock

Perched on the boardwalk of Mission Beach, Cannonball is a lively sushi bar just a stone’s throw from the beach. The vibrant spot offers sushi and Japanese-inspired dishes like the tuna-and-tempura Red Dragon and the seafood-filled Cannonball Burrito (which, spoiler, is really a massive sushi roll). Pair any of these dishes with one of their sakes, Japanese whiskeys, or craft cocktails. And every Tuesday and Thursday, they tap San Diego musicians to perform an acoustic concert from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Address: 3105 Ocean Front Walk, Mission Beach
Hours: Monday–Thursday, noon–8 p.m.; Friday, noon–9 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.–8 p.m.
Happy Hour: Weekdays, 2–5 p.m.
Reservations: OpenTable

This laid back lounge is proof that any hour can be happy when you’re on island time. Play giant Jenga, jump in the pool, or relax in a cabana while sipping tropical cocktails and munching on roasted poblano and mushroom tacos. With 7,500 square feet where you can roam and soak up the sunshine, this oasis is one of the biggest rooftop spaces in San Diego. Cheers to never watching the clock here.
Address: 616 J Street, Gaslamp Quarter
Hours: Sunday–Thursday, 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Friday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–10 p.m.
Happy Hour: Tuesday–Sunday, 3–6 p.m.
Reservations: OpenTable

If you like your San Diego skyline views paired with mouthwatering Wagyu steak and expertly prepared espresso martinis, Born & Raised’s glitzy rooftop is your spot. The CH Projects restaurant mixes old-school charm with a little bit of edge—servers in tuxedos and Converse, cocktails dramatically prepared right at your table, and an ambient environment that’s perfect for lingering.
Address: 1909 India St, Little Italy
Hours: Monday–Thursday, 3 p.m.–midnight; Friday, 3 p.m.–1 a.m.; Saturday, 4 p.m.–1 a.m.; Sunday, 4 p.m.–12 a.m.
Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 3–4:30 p.m.
Reservations: OpenTable

Sea & Sky has certainly earned its name with its breathtaking views of the Pacific from the top of Hotel La Jolla. The food is fresh and local, showcasing the best of coastal California seafood, while the drinks highlight regional wines and creative cocktails from around the world. Come for daily happy hour, Sunday jazz brunch, or a sunset that makes your drink taste even better.
Address: 7955 La Jolla Shores Dr, La Jolla
Hours: Monday–Thursday, 6:30 a.m.–9 p.m.; Friday, 6:30 a.m.–10 p.m.; Saturday, 7 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sunday, 7 a.m.–9 p.m.
Happy Hour: Daily, 3–5 p.m.
Reservations: OpenTable

Only a couple blocks from the beach, Pueblo captures the spirit of Baja with fresh coastal Mexican flavors and a laid-back PB vibe. The margaritas are strong, the pints are ice-cold, and the bar pours wine and brews from both sides of the border. With its breezy, open-air setting, it’s the perfect spot to drift from beach day to happy hour seamlessly.
Address: 877 Hornblend St, Pacific Beach
Hours: Sunday–Thursday, 11:30 a.m.–9 p.m.; Friday–Saturday, 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m.
Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 3–5 p.m.
Reservations: Yelp
Cole Novak is an award-winning writer with a passion for highlighting local figures, small businesses, and nonprofits. Born and raised in San Diego, Cole is passionate about photography, surfing, art, the local food scene, and the great outdoors.
Phoenix is a senior at San Diego State University where she studies journalism and photography. You can find her reading at the beach, taking photos at a concert, or cultivating her 200th Spotify playlist.
Meeting new friends is a scary and sweaty venture—that’s where the city's social event planners come in
Walking into a room full of strangers isn’t high on the fun index for most. It’s inherently awkward: Everyone’s standing in closed-loop clusters, deep in conversation, and, depending on your social aptitude, the feeling is somewhere between light apprehension and burning alive from the inside out. The pull to retreat or reflexively look busy on your phone is stronger than the drink you now deeply crave. Having friends is nice, but making friends can be brutal.
There’s plenty of commentary on the loneliness epidemic. Last year, the American Psychiatric Association reported that one in three adults feel lonely at least once a week; those aged 18 to 34 are more likely to feel isolated and even more likely to turn to social media as a result. Dr. Vivek Murthy’s “My Parting Prescription for America” cautioned that “being socially disconnected increases our risk of heart disease, dementia, depression, anxiety, and premature death.” So it’s not just an emotional need; it’s nearly nutritional—chit-chat and the occasional wine-fueled, emotional deep-dive are just as important as Pilates and a reasonable amount of kale.
Finding social connections in any city is hard, but San Diego has very specific challenges. This is largely a transient population that acts as a temporary hotspot for many and a permanent home for few. Pick your reason: high rent, surreal gas prices, housing shortage, meh job opportunities (ranked 71st in the country in 2025), or the fact that active military is a sizable chunk of us (110,000-ish)—stationed here for a stretch, then gone. This constant flow of departees sucks out the potential for deeply established families and friend groups, leaving a good share of nomads, searchers, and plenty of people feeling socially awkward.
“There’s an underlying loneliness in all of us,” says Ramel Wallace, the host of monthly meetup CreativeMornings. “There are not a lot of San Diegans who are born and raised here, so [even those] San Diegans end up being just as lonely as the person who just got here.”

Every month, in local libraries, breweries, and small businesses, there are ambitious social architects who have made a career out of undoing social sads. Extroverted champions of the awkward and searching, they’ve struck gold on in-person connection.
The first moments in a social situation are crucial. Sets the tone and cools the nerves.
At Pitch-A-Friend, singles recruit their close friends to present a slideshow of their dating green flags. The entry points for connection at Pitch-A-Friend are simple, old tech: stickers. Each colored sticker indicates if the wearer is single or taken, queer or straight, or practicing ethical non-monogamy (in a partnership but open to others under a mutual understanding).
At the helm of each showcase is Arielle Fuller, aka Chief Wingwoman, who is making dating hopeful again. As Fuller explains, this takes some of the fear of rejection out of a first interaction. “Putting a sticker on immediately means, ‘I wanted to leave my house and talk to someone, and I am a safe space to come and speak to me,’” she says.
Of course, not all of San Diego’s events designed to make connections are romantic. On the last Friday of every month, hundreds gather at San Diego Central Library for the local chapter of CreativeMornings—an org formed to unite creatives in various cities across the world (designers, artists, writers, producers, performers, architects, etc.).

These aren’t your standard business card swaps, though. Coming from a hip-hop background, host Wallace uses call-and-response to break the fourth wall. “This is not my stage at all, this is our stage,” he says.
In your standard lecture-based meetup, the crowd silently faces the host and acknowledges nobody except those they came with. At CreativeMornings, everyone is encouraged to look around, pay attention to the strangers in the audience—not just the host. Wallace will pull volunteers to read the CM manifesto aloud, and he passes the mic to creatives, who make 30-second pitches to the community about projects they’re working on—and there’s always an invitation to connect and collaborate with the presenters whose ideas struck a chord.
The U.S. Chamber of Connection (yes it exists) says people experience life transitions nearly every year, and in these stretches are more open to forming new habits, relationships, and communities. In a revolving-door city like ours, the transition often comes when someone moves away. In 2023, the Census Bureau reported San Diego had the ninth-highest rates of domestic out-migration in the US.
This poses an issue for friendships that IRL SD addresses in monthly friend-making events called 619 Night.
“San Diego isn’t a place a lot of people stay forever,” says Alex Hunter, the creator of IRL SD. “They leave, and people [who stay] lose that community, so they’re hungry for community again.”
Their website describes the vibe as “backyard party meets college fair meets networking event meets happy hour.” Each follows a theme—wellness, sports, refresh and reset, etc.—with related community groups joining as well.
“The people I encounter are trying to get a fresh start in some capacity, so they’re more open, receptive, and ready to meet new friends,” Hunter says. “They need the circle.”

Another way adults can break out of this disconnection is to revert in unison, says artist Elisa Summiel-Bey. The 2015-ish adult coloring book moment in the US was based on some real science, with multiple studies finding coloring has a noticeable meditative and stress-release effect by taking the brain away from anxieties and mental inventories, and focusing it on a simple, easy art. Summiel-Bey’s company Illustrated Melanin throws “Color & Chill” events, turning that trend into a group exercise, along with live DJ sets, wellness experts doing sound baths, and food and drink from BIPOC-owned local businesses. “I tend to think of coloring as your way to tap back into your childlike play,” she says. “As adults, I think we’re almost scared to let loose and have that unabashed joy.”
All of these social meetups attract crowds of likeminded connection-seekers, but high attendance is not the only thing that matters. Metrics nuts can track RSVPs, but spreadsheets can’t capture intangible wins: friendships made, innovative ideas sparked, collaborations kicked off. At CreativeMornings, Wallace redefines ROI as Return On Imagination. Resounding success means thoughtful inquiries over coffee, curiosity about the monthly meeting themes, and requests to take the microphone.
A simple, observable ROI is an increased number of window shoppers to the experience—on the periphery, watching from afar, looking for the right way in. Hunter from IRL SD sees the anxiety in her DMs. “The scariest part for you right now is not meeting new friends: It’s the unknown,” she says. “It’s the gap between ‘I’m here’ and ‘That’s where I need to be.’ If I can help you understand, or get a little bit of a shape around that unknown, it’s much more approachable.”

Being able to bridge that gap, however, depends on your ability to step out of your own mind. “It’s not a connection crisis; it’s a courage and confidence crisis,” says Fuller. The first hello could be as easy as, “Hey, cool shirt.” These are the types of things she includes in her confidence lab reels on Instagram and weekly newsletters.
Ever left a social event and shot straight into a spiral? Was I being weird? Why did I tell that story? I hope that person moves to another state very soon.
The experts say that post-event self-interrogation is a standard-issue part of being alive.
“I love awkward people, and I love being awkward myself,” says Wallace. “It’s humbling to experience: ‘I’m not alone. Finally someone is not put together.’ So give yourself that grace.”
Jeannine Boisse (she/her) is a freelance writer and professional creative with a background in Radio & Television. Based in sunny San Diego, Jeannine spends her time exploring the city's vibrant brewery scene, cooking up new recipes in the kitchen, and connecting with new people.
After eight years and numerous awards, the cafe and roastery expands its operations in North County
San Diego’s coffee industry has yet to hit its ceiling. There are at least 850 coffee shops across the county (possibly over 1,000 at this point) and more specialty cafes and roasters seem to join the roster every other week.
Some newcomers, like Chance’s Coffee, focus on specialties like Vietnamese coffee; other stalwarts, like Bird Rock Coffee Roasters, have helped put the local coffee scene on the map with internationally acclaimed beans and baristas for 20 years. You can get a classic pour-over or an ultra, whipped cream–topped strawberry lavender basil blueberry matcha latte sprinkled with unicorn glitter—whatever your coffee style, San Diego’s got it… somewhere.
Steady State Roasting falls more in the former category, focusing on traceable, sustainable sourcing and no-nonsense roasting (no unicorn glitter here, sorry!). Founder and lead roaster Elliot Reinecke first started Steady State in a garage behind his house, roasting small batches until expanding slightly to a shared and not-quite-permitted space before landing in a lucky spot on State Street in Carlsbad.
Now, eight years later, Steady State is scaling up once more, opening its second cafe in San Marcos next to their roastery. The new location offers the same food and drink menu as the original Carlsbad location, and Reinecke says he plans to add an onsite bakery to bake items like English muffins and country loaves to supplement Prager Brothers’ more specialized pastries.
He doesn’t plan on opening more cafes, though. Rather, Reinecke plans to expand roasting operations and strategic sourcing. Currently, he sources beans from Colombia, Panama, across Africa, and as of this year, Costa Rica. “We’ve had Costa Rican coffee before, but we went to origin a few months ago and bought six different lots from there, all from really good high-end local farmers,” he explains.
The rising cost of sourcing does present some challenges, as does changes within coffee culture itself. Coffee has moved from a mass-market beverage to a highly personalized artisanal experience, but the current feeling is moving back towards focusing on quality over flashiness, says Reinecke.
If Reinecke’s prediction is right, coffee is headed on a similar trajectory to craft beer. Ten years ago, no one knew what Citra hops were. Now, even casual beer fans are versed in hop varieties, and that attention to detail is spilling over to coffee as well. How many of San Diego’s 1,000 coffee shops will remain once the unicorn glitter’s luster fades? My bet is on anyone remaining steadfast to sourcing, sustainability, and simplicity.
Steady State San Marcos is now open at 1320 Grand Avenue, Suite #9, San Marcos. Initial operating hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
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Beth Demmon is an award-winning writer and podcaster whose work regularly appears in national outlets and San Diego Magazine. Her first book, The Beer Lover's Guide to Cider, is now available. Find out more on bethdemmon.com.
Dine at The Freedom Table, see Bob Dylan in concert, and explore local and national history through America 250
As summertime inches closer to the shores of San Diego, there are plenty of reasons to be ecstatic. For one thing, there’s the impending arrival of the summer solstice (Sunday), and three days before that, Del Mar’s own Summer Solstice will return for its yearly golden hour. There are also plenty of local Juneteenth events, such as Kinfolk Fest, the Cooper Family Foundation’s Juneteenth Celebration, and The Freedom Table, a new, food-centered event from the originators of Juneteenth San Marcos. We’re also less than three weeks away from America’s 250th anniversary, and the celebrations range from the San Diego History Center’s America 250: San Diego 1776-2026 to NASCAR’s weekend of racing at Naval Base Coronado.
Food & Drink | Concerts & Festivals | Theater & Art Exhibits | More Fun Things to Do

Cbar has planned a week’s worth of festivities to mark its first birthday, and everyone can get in on the fun. The 1-Year Anniversary Week celebrations continue with a special edition of the Sips & Shells craft series ($50) on Tuesday from 6-8:30 p.m., half-off pastries with any purchase of a barista drink (plus an anniversary summer wine flight) on Wednesday and a five-course winemaker dinner on Thursday from 6-9 p.m. ($130). Finally, the birthday bash will conclude with live music on Friday (Will Fedak) and Saturday (Cappo Kelley) from 6-9 p.m.
2917 State Street, Carlsbad
Little Italy’s annual food crawl has so many options that it warrants splitting into two evenings, each boasting a diverse lineup of 20 neighborhood vendors. During the Taste of Little Italy, taking place Tuesday and Wednesday from 4-8 p.m., attendees can make their way from the Piazza della Famiglia to nearby dining destinations for bites like esquites, sausage rolls, hot chicken tenders, and forkfuls of handmade pasta. Each night will also include live music and stops for drinks, desserts, and vegetarian items. Tickets are $71 per day.
Little Italy
As spring makes its golden transition into summer, welcome the new season with open arms and a big appetite during Del Mar Village’s marquee tasting event this Thursday from 5-8 p.m. With the Summer Solstice celebrating its 20th anniversary, this year’s iteration will include dozens of food and drink offerings from Del Mar Village vendors, soulful tunes from Christian Jules Taylor, live art by Sarah O’Connor, and wave-crashing views at Powerhouse Park. General admission (21+) is $157 and comes with unlimited tastings as well as a commemorative tasting glass, while VIP tickets are sold out; proceeds support the Del Mar Village Association.
1658 Coast Boulevard, Del Mar
After hosting the first-ever Juneteenth San Marcos festival in 2025, Lionel and Natalie Saulsberry have upped the ante with The Freedom Table, an elevated observance of community, culture, and the culinary arts. This Friday from 4-9 p.m. at TERI Campus of Life, guests can enjoy storytelling, art installations, live music, curated cocktails, and a chef-led dining experience, all in recognition of Juneteenth’s lasting importance. Ticket options include general admission ($261), plus two charitable ticket options: supporter ($313) and impact ($417), with a portion of sales going towards the youth nonprofit Achievement in Motion.
555 Deer Springs Road, San Marcos
In honor of NASCAR’s Coronado debut and Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby, ARLO is throwing a Father’s Day brunch for the dads who want to go fast. This Sunday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., patrons can order from ARLO’s regular brunch menu, as well as a trio of holiday specials: the Dad’s Day Steak and Fries ($64), the Fit For a King Muffuletta Sandwich ($29), and the Big Daddy Brookie ($14). This shake and bake-approved meal will also include a DJ, cigar rollings, whiskey tastings and a Ricky Bobby costume contest. Reservations can be made online.
500 Hotel Circle North, Mission Valley
Ryan Hardison is a freelance arts and entertainment writer and recent graduate of San Diego State. When he's not staring at his laptop, he's likely eating an adobada burrito or getting sunburnt at the beach.
Stake Chophouse & Bar brings contemporary classics and old-school service to the heart of Coronado
Stake Chophouse & Bar isn’t your average steakhouse. Blue Bridge Hospitality’s Coronado outpost is a modern interpretation of a big-city steakhouse nestled in the heart of the small coastal community. The team at Stake has reimagined the whole steakhouse experience. By prioritizing a seasonal farm-to-table sourcing philosophy, a personalized guest experience, and unique service touches, like a formal steak presentation and a bespoke knife selection process, Stake distinguishes itself in a sea of steakhouses.
Exceptional steaks, including Wagyu from Japan, Australia, and the U.S., and fresh seafood flown in daily form the core of Stake’s culinary identity. The menu features a five-course omakase-style steak experience highlighting house favorites, plus an array of cuts, and classic steakhouse staples—think a wedge salad, baked potato, or pasta carbonara—refined for a contemporary palate without losing their traditional appeal. Stake focuses on seasonal sourcing from the region’s best family farms and specialty purveyors, and incorporates intentionally unexpected touches to create something truly unique.
“I challenge our chefs and myself to take it a step further in sourcing,” says Chef Ronnie Schwandt. “It’s important to us to highlight different farms, unique one-off farms—whether it’s cattle, strawberries, a local fisherman or from anywhere in the United States, we’re always trying to find that niche.”
Beyond the menu, Stake emphasizes outstanding service, says Vinny Spatafore, Director of Hospitality Operations. Staff maintains detailed notes, allowing them to remember guests by name, recall previous orders such as a favorite martini (also memorable for the customer since it’s served in an extra tall, distinctly-shaped glass), and celebrate special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries.
“When you have those points of topic that you remember about a guest, they appreciate that,” he says. “Our servers are really good with that—we have a couple servers who have been here since the beginning and they’ll remember somebody from years ago, their name, their kids’ names, where they live. I’m really thankful to have a great front of house staff.”
Award-winning wines, rare whiskeys, special events, and a complementary black car service that provides transportation for guests throughout Coronado add to Stake’s appeal.
Schwandt stresses that Stake offers more than a meal; they aim to give patrons something unforgettable.
“It starts when you walk up the stairs and are greeted by the hostess—that sets the tone for the night. Then you’re greeted by a server, who may know you by name, and can guide you through the menu and curate as they get to know you,” says Schwandt. “Most people leave kind of blown away; they leave feeling like they just had an experience. That’s the goal, right? Whether you’re serving smash burgers or high-end steak, you want somebody to leave thinking, Wow, that was awesome.”
The team behind Harumama and Blue Ocean will open Little Kiki Katsu & More on June 15, serving premium cutlets, Japanese sandos, and curated sake pairings
Every culture has its own comfort foods—cozy dishes that nurture the soul as much as the body. In the US, dipping a grilled cheese sandwich in a bowl of tomato soup can feel as satiating as pulling a warm sweater out of the dryer. In China, a steaming bowl of congee is basically a miracle remedy for anything you can imagine. I’m pretty sure Italian carbonara could achieve world peace. And in Japan, katsu remains one of the most universally satisfying inventions of the past century.
Katsu was originally invented as a riff on côtelette de veau, the classic French veal cutlet coated with breadcrumbs and pan-fried in butter. In 1899, a Western-style restaurant called Rengatei in Tokyo decided to put their own spin on the dish by pounding the cutlets until thin, then coating them with softer panko and deep-frying versus pan frying (like tempura) for a crispier, lighter, crunchier bite. Today, pork—called tonkatsu in Japanese—tends to be the most common base for katsu.
The dish has yet to achieve the same mainstream status as say, chicken nuggets, in the US. But Little Kiki Katsu & More hopes to change that, when the katsu-focused restaurant opens in Carlsbad on June 15.
Created by the team behind Harumama and Blue Ocean, Little Kiki will focus on premium katsu dishes paired with sake and around a dozen small bites like miso soup, karaage, edamame, and Japanese pickles. Executive chef James Pyo, who co-owns all three restaurants with his wife Jenny, created a menu that features proteins like Berkshire Kurobuta pork, Jidori chicken, salmon, scallops, and dry-aged Pacific cod for the katsu and grilled stone selections. (Note: the grilled stone options will be offered for dinner only.)

The lunch menu includes Japanese-style sandos like a tonkatsu sandwich with pork, housemade bread, and tonkatsu sauce (available regular or spicy). Dessert options are simple to start—yuzu cheesecake, matcha crème brûlée, and mango/yuzu mochi ice cream. The Pyos curated a selection of premium sakes as well, specifically for pairing purposes, as well as offering some beer and cocktails.
Little Kiki, which is named for Jenny’s cat, seats 25-30 guests inside with room for only a few more on the small outdoor patio as well. Designer and assistant Yoojin Jang says the vibe is meant to be warm and welcoming but modern, using colors like olive green, cream, and pops of orange against Japanese-style wood slats.
Initially, Little Kiki will only be open for dinner service, but aims to introduce lunch hours for the grand opening on July 1. Due to the limited seating, Jang encourages guests to make reservations, and while the restaurant will offer takeout, it will not be available on food delivery apps like Uber Eats or DoorDash to motivate guests to come experience it for themselves.
“Come in curious and leave satisfied,” says Jang. And keep your eyes open for subtle cat motifs—she promises they are hidden all over the place. Whimsy, it seems, is also on the menu.
Little KiKi Katsu & More soft opens on June 15, 2026 at 2958 Madison Street, Suite 101 in Carlsbad. Hours are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. for lunch and 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. for dinner; Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. for lunch and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. for dinner; closed Tuesday.

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Beth Demmon is an award-winning writer and podcaster whose work regularly appears in national outlets and San Diego Magazine. Her first book, The Beer Lover's Guide to Cider, is now available. Find out more on bethdemmon.com.
Discover eateries, outings, and shops within this inland North County community
Just south of Lake Hodges near 4S Ranch and Poway, Rancho Bernardo is a suburban community that blends residential neighborhoods with industrial pockets, elevated by a decidedly diverse food scene.
Over 60 years ago, this North County neighborhood was once part of a family ranch. Since that time, big tech companies have taken up residence here, including Amazon, Sony Electronics, Oura Ring, HP, Teradata, and ASML. Rancho Bernardo Inn serves as a community hub, with locals frequently meeting at the hotel’s restaurants, golf course, and spa.
Whether it’s work or a round of golf that brings you to Rancho Bernardo, we’ve taken care of the agenda planning with our guide to the area’s best restaurants, activities, and shops.

Sample ingredients plucked straight from Rancho Bernardo Inn’s onsite garden and served at their signature restaurant Avant. One of the neighborhood’s most upscale dining options, they serve a French-inspired menu with nods to California, including many seafood options. Don’t miss their more casual sister restaurant Veranda for al fresco dining.
17550 Bernardo Oaks Drive
Wood-fired pizzas and handmade pastas are standouts at The Kitchen, Bernardo Winery’s counter-service restaurant specializing in Sicilian flavors. Charcuterie boards and bruschetta make for great starters or snacks while wine tasting.
13330 Paseo Del Verano Norte
Fast-casual and family-owned eatery Bushfire Kitchen recently opened a location in Rancho Bernardo, serving sandwiches, bowls, salads, burgers, protein plates, and housemade empanadas. Bushfire prepares comfort food with healthy ingredients, and offers plenty of vegetarian and vegan options.
11962 Bernardo Plaza Drive, Suite 110
Some might call The Cork & Craft an overachiever. This gastropub has an in-house craft brewery and winery: Abnormal Beer and Wine. The more, the merrier. Their sushi menu is definitely worth exploring, but don’t miss other specialties like garlic noodles, chicken wings, and pork belly.
16990 Via Tazon

You don’t have to leave Rancho Bernardo to get a white tablecloth steakhouse experience. Carvers Steaks & Chops has prime rib (their best seller), filet, ribeye, porterhouse, New York strip, and other cuts, served alongside crab-stuffed mushrooms, wedge salad, French onion soup, potato skins, and other steakhouse specialties.
1940 Bernardo Plaza Drive
This no-frills Burmese restaurant is known for its traditional tea leaf salad that’s topped with sesame and sunflower seeds, garlic chips, peanuts, tomatoes, jalapeños, fried yellow beans, and fermented green tea leaf dressing. Tucked into a nondescript strip mall, Burma Place is a great takeout option when you want to eat garlic noodles, fried rice, chicken curry, and samosas from the comfort of your couch.
16719 Bernardo Center Drive, Suite A
Find authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Phở Ca Dao, including favorites like phở noodle soup, vermicelli noodles, broken rice dishes, and spring rolls. One of eight locations throughout San Diego, this family-owned chain uses robot servers for food delivery.
11808 Rancho Bernardo Road, Suite 100
It’s all about the sauce at fast-casual Mediterranean restaurant The Kebab Shop. Smothering your chicken shawarma, gyro, or falafels in garlic yogurt, cilantro jalapeno, fire chili, and dill yogurt sauce is practically a rite of passage. The hardest part is deciding whether to order a wrap, bowl, or salad.
11980 Bernardo Plaza Drive
Get a taste of South Asian flavors at Casa Lahori, a Pakistani restaurant noted for its grilled meat kabobs. Other best-selling dishes include beef nihari, chicken biryani, and shahi paneer— best enjoyed with naan bread.
11975 Bernardo Plaza Drive
Grill your own meat on the tabletop at Kangnam Korean BBQ, an interactive, all-you-can-eat experience that’s well-suited for large groups. Marinated beef bulgogi, grilled galbi short ribs, and spicy pork are served alongside traditional banchan dishes like kimchi, japchae glass noodles, and flavorful stews. Weekday lunch specials provide a nice discount on these filling meals.
11828 Rancho Bernardo Road, Suite 117–119

Dig in to your favorite curries and kebabs at Curry & More Indian Bistro. Most entrees are served with a choice of two side dishes, including basmati rice, potatoes with cumin, daal, naan, or mixed greens. Help offset the spice with one of their sweet mango or strawberry lassi drinks.
11808 Rancho Bernardo Road, Suite 123
Kai Oliver-Kurtin is a San Diego-based writer who covers travel, dining, events, and culture. Her writing has been published in USA Today, Condé Nast Traveler, Fodor's Travel, Marie Claire, and HuffPost, among others.
The 53rd Annual National Philanthropy Day Takes Place on November 21. Join us from 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. at the new Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center!
Once yearly, AFP San Diego joins with others worldwide to celebrate National Philanthropy Day (NPD), a special day set aside to recognize the great contributions of donors and nonprofits that enrich of our community and the world. San Diego’s NPD is one of the largest and most successful in the U.S., attracting nearly 900 participants, including philanthropists, nonprofit leaders, CEOs, board members, development professionals, and business, community, and civic leaders.
Sponsorship proceeds from National Philanthropy Day are reinvested in education, training, scholarships, career development, and the advancement of fundraising professionals throughout San Diego. These resources and training provide fundraising professionals with the tools necessary to support our region’s diverse array of nonprofit organizations, which rely on charitable giving for close to half of their annual revenues.
The National Philanthropy Day Honorees are selected by the NPD Honorary Committee, a group of highly respected, diverse nonprofit and business leaders. Our 2025 Honorees include:
National Philanthropy Day San Diego provides an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of giving and to celebrate the selfless contributions of individuals and organizations across the region. We look forward to celebrating with you!
Sponsorship opportunities and individual tickets are available. Please visit www.afpsd.org for more information.