Here’s where to eat, explore and shop next time you’re wandering this hidden gem.

Escondido Restaurants and Bars

Cordiano Winery

Get the best views in town from this hilltop winery in Highland Valley. The family-owned and operated Cordiano Winery offers a wide selection of estate wines—the Tempranillo and Trinity Red Blend are some popular ones—but the oven-fired pizza is the star of the show. The owners, Gerardo and Rosa Cordiano, emigrated from Italy in the 1970s and bring decades of experience working in New York-style pizzerias to this passion project. The outdoor patio faces west, so it’s the perfect spot to watch the sun set. 

15732 Highland Valley Road

EscoGelato

This downtown Esco staple has practically had a line out the door since it opened in 2012. EscoGelato celebrates the agricultural heritage of the area by sourcing gelato ingredients from local farmers. You’ll find 14-18 gelato and sorbet flavors that change daily in flavors ranging from the classic (Stracciatella, pistachio) to the creative (apricot goat cheese or strawberry balsamic sorbet). Pair your gelato with an espresso drink made with Zumbar’s locally roasted beans.

122 South Kalmia

Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens

An Escondido guide would be remiss to exclude Stone Brewery, the iconic craft brewing giant that started in the neighboring community of San Marcos in 1996. In 2006, it moved its headquarters to Escondido, where it established a unique restaurant experience featuring lush gardens, koi ponds and, of course, an extensive tap list. You can wander the grounds, glass in hand, while you wait for your meal, or take a brewery tour. While this restaurant might be a bit commercialized (see: large on-site gift shop), it’s still a must-see when in town.

1999 Citracado Parkway

O’Sullivan’s Irish Pub and Restaurant

A mainstay on Escondido’s Grand Avenue, O’Sullivan’s is a prime spot for people-watching from the dog-friendly patio on Cruisin’ Grand nights. It offers traditional Irish fare, like shepherd’s pie and corned beef with cabbage, as well as some Irish-inspired fusions—try the Irish nachos, thin-sliced potato chips topped with traditional nacho fixings. Sip on your Guinness while you listen to live music on weekend nights.

118 East Grand Avenue

Craft & Taco Lounge

A laid-back little spot just west of downtown Escondido, Craft & Taco serves up flavor-packed gourmet tacos alongside local craft brews. Try the Escondido coco loco taco (with coconut shrimp, bay scallops, micro greens and sweet and sour sauce) or vegan buffalo zucchini taco, both served on homemade tortillas.

511 West Valley Parkway

Four Tunas Fish & Bar

The family-owned Four Tunas offers fresh seafood in multiple Mexican-style preparations. Try the shrimp and fish aguachiles (similar to ceviche), the charbroiled octopus taco, or the ahi tuna tostada. Pair it with a fruity michelada or a flavored margarita with house-made syrup.

601 North Broadway, Suite D

A Delight of France Bakery & Bistro

You pretty much can’t go wrong when having breakfast or brunch at A Delight of France. This Grand Avenue staple offers crepes, brioche French toast, eggs benedict and croissant bechamel, which are all top-notch. Or you can take your breakfast to go by selecting a pastry, like a fruit tart or chocolate croissant, from the display case.

126 West Grand Avenue

Burger Bench

When this family-owned burger joint opened on Grand Avenue in 2015, it filled a much-needed void in the neighborhood for good burgers at a family-friendly restaurant. Burger Bench serves specialties such as the spicy Chorizo Diablo and handmade black bean burger alongside crispy tots or truffle Parmesan fries. For drinks, you can select from 20 taps of local craft brews or a hand-mixed milkshake. Burger Bench is set to open their second North County location in downtown Vista in 2025.

237 East Grand Avenue

Sunny Side Kitchen

A few blocks from Grand Avenue you’ll find the tiny mom-and-pop panini shop Sunny Side Kitchen. The owners pride themselves in doing everything the right way—sourcing the best local ingredients (including artisan sourdough from Bread & Cie), making every sandwich to order, and making every lemonade from scratch. Try their famous breakfast panini or crustless quiche, followed by a homemade bite-sized cookie.

155 South Orange Street

TJ Tacos

While the ambiance gives greasy fast food joint, don’t let that stop you from swinging by TJ Tacos. This is perhaps as close as you’ll get to authentic Tijuana street tacos without crossing the border. Popular picks are the adobada (marinated pork) taco, lengua (beef tongue) taco, and asada taco.

802 East Valley Parkway

Lourdes Mexican Food

On any cold and rainy day in Escondido, the phones ring nonstop for orders of the famous Lourdes chicken soup, made with hearty chunks of chicken, rice, cilantro, onions and avocado and served with to-die-for tortillas. You can order from the counter then enjoy your soup at a booth, but most patrons take their meal to go.

650 South Escondido Blvd.

Forgotten Barrel Winery

You’ll find this historic winery—whose site dates back to the 1880s—tucked in a residential neighborhood. Forgotten Barrel restored the former Prohibition Era–founded Ferrara Winery and uses the priceless old growth Sequoia redwood barrels that were left (i.e., forgotten) on the property when Ferrara closed. Not only are the grounds a stunning backdrop for a date night, but the fruit-forward handcrafted wines are surprisingly good, thanks to the skills of the winery’s Napa-trained master winemaker.

1120 West 15^th Avenue

Rock n’ Jenny’s Italian Subs

Tucked in a strip mall right off the freeway, Rock n’ Jenny’s Italian Subs is named for the father-daughter duo who’ve run it since 1989. They serve up authentic East Coast–style Italian sandwiches that are hard to find on this coast—customer favorites include the hot pastrami grinder, the meatball sub, and Italian cold cuts.

1044 West Valley Parkway

Things to Do in Escondido

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

The biggest draw for visitors to Escondido is the counterpart to the San Diego Zoo. The 1,800-acre San Diego Zoo Safari Park in the San Pasqual Valley is home to more than 3,000 animals and 300 species, including the only two platypuses living outside of Australia. 

15500 San Pasqual Valley Road

Cruisin’ Grand

Every Friday night from April to September, Grand Avenue is packed with locals for the free community favorite Cruisin’ Grand. Pre-1974 hot rods line the streets on display (usually with their owners sitting in camping chairs on the sidewalk) as musicians and DJs entertain the crowds. It’s a worthwhile weekly event for car enthusiasts and people watchers.

Grand Avenue

EcoVivarium

You can’t tell from the old office building exterior, but the little EcoVivarium nonprofit museum has one of the largest reptile and amphibian sanctuaries in the country, giving you and the kids a hands-on experience with rescued big lizards, snakes, tortoises and other cold-blooded critters.

641 East Pennsylvania Avenue

Children’s Discovery Museum

Across the street from Grape Day Park and the California Center for the Arts, the Children’s Discovery Museum offers an interactive, hands-on learning experience both indoors and outdoors for toddler and preschool-aged kids.

320 North Broadway

Hiking Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve

If you want to enjoy the great outdoors, take on a hike on the 11 miles of trails in the 784-acre Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve. The views from the Lake Hodges Overlook and the Way Up Trail are well worth it but are a bit challenging. 

8833 Harmony Grove Road

 Queen Califia’s Magical Circle

Niki de Saint Phalle’s mosaic sculpture garden is composed of nine colorful large-scale sculptures, a circular snake wall and a maze entryway. The garden was inspired by California’s mythic, historic and cultural roots. It’s located within Kit Carson Park and is only open very limited hours, so check the schedule before you make the trek.

3333 Bear Valley Parkway

Kit Carson Park

The largest park in Escondido, Kit Carson is a community hub for family barbecues, exercise (tennis courts, softball fields, hiking trails, skate park, etc.) and dog walking. It also houses the only disc golf course in North County.

3333 Bear Valley Parkway

California Center for the Arts, Escondido

From Broadway musicals to classical ballets, the California Center for the Arts features a full lineup of world-class entertainment in its concert hall and 400-seat theater. Located on a 12-acre campus, the Center for the Arts is a community hub for a number of free events through the year, like on Independence Day and Dia De Los Muertos.

340 North Escondido Blvd.

CuppaPug

The England-based café concept just opened its first location in the U.S., which happens to be in Escondido. For a fee, you can visit and play with CuppaPug’s resident grumble (the word for a group of pugs). While there, indulge in a menu of pug-themed drinks and snacks.

607 West 9^th Avenue

Deer Park Winery & Auto Museum

As the name implies, the Deer Park Winery & Auto Museum gives you a chance to both enjoy a glass of award-winning local estate wines and explore a massive collection of autos, from 19^th-century carriages to one of the largest American convertible collections in the world.

29013 Champagne Blvd.

Escondido Shops & Boutiques

Daydream Here Boutique

An Asian, WOC-owned boutique in the heart of downtown, Daydream Here is a one-stop shop selling clothing, accessories and gifts from multiple vendors.

227 East Grand Avenue

Urban Barn

At the east end of Grand Avenue, you’ll find the seemingly endless labyrinth that is Urban Barn. It’s a unique retail experience that offers a mix of vintage treasures, antiques, home décor, clothing and locally made goods from multiple vendors.

404 East Grand Avenue

The Hidden

Founded by a floral and event designer as a tribute to her mom, the small business The Hidden offers a one-stop shop for gifts, plants and florals in northern Escondido.  

1872 West El Norte Parkway

Escondido Antique Mall

Browse the vintage, antique and collectible goods from a wide variety of vendors in the 10,000-square-foot Escondido Antique Mall on Grand Avenue.

135 West Grand Avenue

The post San Diego Neighborhood Guide: Escondido appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

Dinner with a View

There’s no shortage of oceanfront dining in San Diego, but a Valentine’s meal deserves an extra-special setting. For a classic La Jolla sunset, head to George’s at the Cove. Prefer a hip rooftop vibe with Italian fare and Aperol spritzes? Garibaldi is your spot. And for a unique experience, book a table at Tom Ham’s Lighthouse for waterfront dining with a touch of novelty.

Balboa Park

Balboa Park is chock-full of date possibilities, thanks to its wide variety of museums, gardens, and dining options. Learn something new together at the Nat, take a romantic stroll through the Japanese Friendship Garden, or simply lay out a picnic on one of the park’s relaxing grassy knolls.

May 13, 2024

San Diego Date Nights for Every Type of CoupleRELATED ARTICLE

South Bay Drive-In

All those teens in the 1950s can’t have been wrong: There’s something quite intimate about a drive-in movie theater. South Bay Drive-In shows up to six flicks on three screens, seven days a week. Cuddling up in the comfort of your own car while watching a story unfold is a classic date activity that has stood the test of time.  

Belmont Park

Up the adrenaline next date night with a trip to Belmont Park. The iconic Mission Beach amusement park is packed with heart-pounding thrill rides (which science says can turn up the heat in your relationship), plus fair games where you can charm your cutie by winning them a prize.

Get Artsy Together

This Valentine’s Day, channel your inner Patrick Swayze and create something meaningful (and messy) with your partner. Instead of the predictable paint-and-sip classes, opt for a hands-on pottery class at Pinch Pottery Studio downtown. This special Valentine’s Day class is $150 and will leave you each with a handmade piece to cherish as a keepsake.

Wine & Dine

Nothing says romance like a good wine and charcuterie pairing. The Rose in South Park is an adorable spot for sipping cabernet while nibbling on meats, cheeses, and breads from Secret Sister Bakery. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of South Park for a perfect end to the evening. Want more wine bar inspiration? We’ve got you covered here.

September 4, 2024

10 Stunning Places to Propose in San Diego RELATED ARTICLE

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Are you and your honey outdoorsy? Then Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve may be right up your alley. The expansive reserve offers breathtaking environs, multiple trails to explore, and access to Torrey Pines State Beach.

Farmers Market

You can find an abundance of farmers markets across the city almost any day of the week. They’re a great place to wander hand-and-hand, scoping local produce and buying ingredients to make a fun, fresh lunch together after. 

Liberty Station

Whether it’s a first date or your weekly couples night, the romantic outing options at Liberty Station are endless. You can enjoy a luxury cinema experience at The Lot or have a friendly mini golf competition at Tapper Mini Golf. Round out the evening with dinner at Liberty Public Market.

Indulge in a Spa Day

Treat yourselves this Valentine’s Day with a couples massage at one of San Diego’s most luxurious spas. The Spa at Fairmont Grand Del Mar offers a decadent Restorative Couples Massage for $930, complete with a mineral-rich bath, moisture wrap, and foot massage. Your skin—and your special someone—will thank you.

Take the Leap

Besides marriage, paragliding might just be the ultimate declaration of love. Soar side-by-side from the Torrey Pines Gliderport, where professional instructors will guide you on a tandem flight over La Jolla’s stunning coastline. It’s the perfect mix of adrenaline and awe for you and your adrenaline-seeking partner. Flights start at $200—commitment optional.

Coin Haus

If your date night takes you to East County, pop by Coin Haus in La Mesa. The arcade bar features self-serve taps and retro games, making it perfect for a cool and nostalgic outing. You can also team up with your main squeeze or double-date with friends at Coin Haus’ weekly trivia night.

Rooftop Cinema Club

A trip to the movies is a quintessential date night activity. Take it to the next level with Rooftop Cinema Club, an open-air experience at the Manchester Grand Hyatt featuring new flicks and older classics. The city views, theater snacks, and personal headphones offer a more immersive viewing opportunity.

Have a Bougie Picnic

Elevate your picnic game with a touch of luxury. If your charcuterie skills are a little lackluster, let the pros at San Diego Picnics handle it. They’ll craft an Insta-worthy glamp for you and your boo in picturesque spots like Sunset Cliffs, Mission Bay, or Kate Sessions Park. Ready to take things to the next level? Opt for their proposal package and pop the question.

Kayaking in La Jolla 

If you really want to bond with your boo, try something adventurous that requires a little teamwork. Kayaking around the waters of La Jolla really fits that bill—plus, you’re likely to catch amazing views of sea lions and tiger sharks.

Sip and Stroll at a Winery

Skip the grocery store wine and taste varietals fresh from the vine. Bernardo Winery’s Valentine’s Day festivities, running February 12–16, feature live music, themed cuisine, and specialty drinks. Reserve a tasting or tour the 136-year-old vineyard for a date steeped in history—and wine.

Punch Bowl Social 

Gaslamp Quarter hotspot Punch Bowl Social is a great place to bring a date, as endless opportunities for fun are right at your fingertips. Cap off ten frames of bowling at Punch Bowl with a menu full of late-night bites, comfort food, and cocktails.

San Diego Zoo

At the San Diego Zoo, you and your date can spend hours peering at elephants, orangutans, and other fascinating creatures. For a new fling, it offers plenty of time to chat and get to know each other. For those in an established relationship, it’s a great place to spend quality time together and have some wholesome fun. 

The Pearl Hotel 

Let me grab my swimsuit probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you think “movie night”—unless, of course, you’re headed to The Pearl Hotel. The Point Loma lodging’s Wednesday Dive-In movie nights in the pool often include cult classics, as well as the opportunity to dine at the onsite restaurant.

Eco Boat Rentals

Tired of meeting for drinks? Try something new: Eco Boat Rentals in Point Loma offers great day and evening boating opportunities. I personally enjoyed taking their pedal boat for a ride during the afternoon, laughing along with my husband as we tried to keep our pedaling in sync. You can also check out their nighttime “glow ride” option to take in the lights of San Diego’s skyline from the water.

The post 20 Fun Valentine’s Day Ideas in San Diego appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

Food & Drink | Concerts & Festivals | Theater & Art Exhibits | More Fun Things to Do

Food & Drink Events in San Diego This Weekend

The Whiskey House 10th Anniversary Party

January 15

The Whiskey House is summoning the era of flappers and zoot suits for its Roaring Twenties-themed anniversary party. The event includes a free food buffet for all attendees from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. with sliders, wings, chorizo mac and cheese, and dessert. Attendees can also enjoy live, era-appropriate music, anniversary drink specials, a happy hour food and beverage menu, and limited edition anniversary shirts for purchase. 

420 Third Avenue, Gaslamp

January 14, 2025

Celebrity Chef Claudette Zepeda Opening New Lounge in LeucadiaRELATED ARTICLE

ARTIFACT at Night 

January 16

During the first ARTIFACT at Night of 2025, chefs Tim Kolanko, Wesley Johnson and Tony Coito are leading a culinary excursion to North Africa with a meal born out of the cuisine of Morocco. Dinner guests at the Mingei International Museum will be treated to a four-course meal full of Moroccan-inspired delicacies, such as the meat pie bastilla. Dinner is priced at $89 per person, including the $40 reservation deposit made when booking, with seatings from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. 

1439 El Prado, Balboa Park

Burgeon’s Eighth Anniversary Invitational

January 18

Enjoy two-ounce tasters of limited-edition brews and an afternoon full of activities at Burgeon’s Eighth Anniversary Invitational, taking place this Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. The anniversary party will feature a guest lineup of 45 breweries from San Diego to Salinas, with an exclusive chance to try rare Burgeon Beer releases. Attendees can also enjoy games, live music and food from Thumbs Up Bacon & BBQ, Emberlicious Wood Fired Pizza, Mr. Ceviche. Tickets are $75 per person, with a portion of proceeds going toward SeaTrees’ Ocean+Positive Solution. 

6350 Yarrow Drive, Carlsbad

Chef Nino Fjordside/Agnes Karrasch Collab Dinner at Matsu

January 20 & 21

San Diego foodies can revel in a unique dining experience to close out the holiday weekend, as Matsu teams up with chefs Nino Fjordside and Agnes Karrasch, formerly of the two-Michelin star KOKS restaurant in the Faroe Islands. Patrons will be treated to a six-course dinner inspired by Nordic cuisine and featuring local produce. Dinner is priced at $375 per person—with a $95 add-on option for wine pairings—and reservations can be made between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. on OpenTable.  

626 South Tremont Street, Oceanside

Concerts & Festivals in San Diego This Weekend

The 12th Annual Borrego Springs Film Festival

January 15-19

Independent cinema shines on screen at the Borrego Springs Film Festival, with this year’s lineup showcasing 93 films, along with a series of galas, after parties, and award ceremonies. Festival attendees can buy the full festival pass ($175) or individual block passes to specific screenings ($10 each). Those without a ticket can enjoy Wednesday’s lineup of free screenings at Borrego Springs Library, along with filmmaker and community panels that are open to the public. 

590 Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs 

January 13, 2025

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Holo Holo Music Festival 

January 18

Headlined by the sweet sounds of Common Kings, the Holo Holo Music Festival is back in San Diego, with its first event at the new Frontwave Arena, this Saturday starting at 4 p.m. The festival’s lineup is rounded out by Josh Tatofi, 8R08, K’Nova and Spawnbreezie performing reggae-tinged tunes, plus a cultural dance performance from Taupou Samoa. Tickets start at $78 for the Holo Holo Music Festival. 

3475 Hero Drive, Oceanside

Martin Luther King Jr. Parade, Festival and 5K Run 

January 19

Zeta Sigma Lambda’s San Diego chapter is celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. Day with a Sunday full of free events on the shoreline. This includes a community 5K run starting at 9 a.m. on the corner of Harbor Drive and Ash Street, as well as a parade with floats, bands, local organizations proceeding down Harbor Drive. Throughout the day at Waterfront Park (from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.) the free Harmony Health Festival will commemorate Dr. King’s legacy with vendors and exhibitors hosting wellness-themed activities, workshops and screenings. 

Harbor Drive, Embarcadero 

Theater & Art Exhibits in San Diego This Weekend

Anne of Green Gables at Patio Playhouse

Through January 19

Patio Playhouse’s loyal stage adaptation of Anne of Green Gables finishes its run at the community theater with six shows Thursday through Sunday. The adventures of orphan child Anne Shirley, originating from the book series by L.M. Montgomery and adapted by Joseph Robinette, is a sincere and imaginative coming-of-age story, with a lovable lead character. Tickets are $14 and can be purchased online.

201 East Grand Avenue, Escondido

January 2, 2025

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Back to the Future: The Musical at Civic Theatre

January 14-19

Doc Brown’s time-traveling DeLorean zooms to the Civic Theatre stage this weekend for eight performances of Back to the Future: The Musical. As with the 1985 film, Marty McFly is transported 30 years into the past and must ensure he not only preserves the past, but doesn’t screw up the future. Featuring all the calling cards of the classic film as well as several original songs, this musical breathes new life into the sci-fi franchise. Tickets range from $51 to $200 for this production. 

1100 Third Avenue, Gaslamp

12 Angry Men at Innovation Family Community Theatre

January 17-19

The Innovation Family Community is putting on a production of the illustrious courtroom play 12 Angry Men for Series II of their “Night of Drama.” When 12 men deliberate over whether an inner-city teen should receive the death penalty in a seemingly open-and-shut murder case, personal biases are challenged, heated debates ensue and the justice system is put to the test. Tickets are $15 for adults and $7 for children for 12 Angry Men; the play will have four performances this weekend. 

5454 Ruffin Road, Kearny Mesa

Julian Tan: End Trances at Athenaeum Music & Arts Library

January 18 – April 19 

Julian Tan’s new solo exhibition at the Athenaeum’s Joseph Clayes III & Carolyn Yorston-Wellcome Rotunda Galleries invites all to look toward the sky and make their own conclusions. The oil paintings of End Trances depict a massive white light beaming down upon people below, allowing each observer to contemplate what such an otherworldly occurrence would mean. The exhibition will have a free opening reception this Friday from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and a gallery walk-through this Saturday at 11 a.m. (open to the public). The gallery is open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

1008 Wall Street, La Jolla 

Ethan Chan & David Peña: Heavy as Ghosts at ICA North

January 18 – July 27 

Through Heavy as Ghosts, ICA San Diego’s 2024 artists in residence Ethan Chan and David Peña present a two-headed examination of healing, with personal revelations on loneliness and grief. At ICA North’s free C You Saturday! event this weekend, there will be a durational performance piece by Chan, a panel discussion on grief and healing featuring Peña and special guests, and an all-ages collage making workshop inspired by the exhibition. 

1550 South El Camino Real, Encinitas

More Fun Things To Do in San Diego This Weekend

WWE Friday Night SmackDown

January 17

See WWE stars brawl live at Pechanga Arena during Friday Night SmackDown, where dramatic storylines and theatrical athletics are a recipe for performance art in the ring. The card for SmackDown in San Diego includes a tag team clash between Motor City Machine Guns and Los Garza, the return of Solo Sikoa following his loss on Monday Night Raw, and the Women’s Championship between Bayley and reigning title holder Tiffany Stratton. Tickets start at $53 for Friday Night SmackDown. 

3500 Sports Arena Boulevard, Midway 

January 13, 2025

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Ralph Barbosa at Balboa Theatre

January 17 & 18

Listening to Ralph Barbosa tell jokes is a calming experience, with his deadpan delivery leaving audiences hanging onto every word of his stoner-esque musings. Over four stand-up shows at the Balboa Theatre this Friday and Saturday (performing at 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. each night), Barbosa will be recording his next stand-up special. Tickets start at $61 for each performance. 

868 Fourth Avenue, Downtown

San Diego State Aztecs vs. UNLV Runnin’ Rebels Men’s Basketball at Viejas Arena

January 18

After a heartbreaking loss to Utah State to close out 2024 and a beatdown at the hands of New Mexico this past weekend, the Aztecs are looking to regain their footing in the Mountain West standings. Saturday’s game against UNLV will be a middle-of-the-pack matchup against a familiar conference foe. Also, all fans in attendance will receive their very own stern-faced, arms akimbo Coach Dutcher bobblehead. Tickets are starting at $45 and can be purchased here. 

5500 Canyon Crest Drive, Rolando

SeaWorld Inside Look 

January 18-20

Receive an in-depth zoology lesson from the SeaWorld Rescue Team’s animal care experts during SeaWorld Inside Look. This marine education series will include talks from otter, penguin and orca trainers, plus a special look inside SeaWorld Rescue Center. A new feature of Inside Look this year is a preview of Jewels of the Sea: The Jellyfish Experience, set to open this Spring. Admission to SeaWorld Inside Look is included in the park admission; available activities may differ each day. 

500 SeaWorld Drive, Mission Bay

The post 16 Things to Do in San Diego This Weekend: January 16-20 appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

Carl became a train-stop bucket list for health-retreatists, including Hollywood (’50s actor Leo Carillo, star of hit TV show The Cisco Kid, was its most famous part-time resident—his naturalist estate is now a Carlsbad park). To balance the city’s food chi, chicken mania struck here next, when the iconic Victorian house owned by “Father of Carlsbad” Gerhard Schutte was transformed into Twin Inns, an all-you-can-eat clucker spot, in 1919. Early foodies traveled from far-flung places to heal themselves with Carl’s meaty arts.

May 17, 2023

A Brief History of North CountyRELATED ARTICLE

Carl was in no rush to become a boom town; the 5 freeway wasn’t even built until 1953. The airport arrived six years later (mention it if you wanna agitate a local), bringing the private-jet set and a healthy snowbird connection, thanks to Taos and Mammoth direct flights during winter.

A few key things helped spur a more modern culinary scene: San Diego city became impacted, driving people north, south, and east (coasts get populated first); Legoland opened in 1999, bringing engineery tourists galore; Carl became the center of the golf universe (Callaway, Titleist, you name it, they’re all here); Viasat built a 1.1-million-square-foot campus with 1,700-ish employees; and a Consortium Holdings leader spun off to open Campfire, followed by the eventual Michelin-starred spot Jeune et Jolie.

December 24, 2024

The Top 20: Best New San Diego Restaurants of 2024RELATED ARTICLE

A food scene, after all, depends on a constant flow of people and talent. The city that was once sleepy, fit, and idyllic is now energized, food-aware, and… still idyllic. Here are a handful of dishes you gotta try in Carl.

GONZO!

GONZO! Red

Gonzo! has been slinging Japanese comfort food and hosting concerts since 2020. The spicy miso broth of the red ramen boasts mouth-tingling Sichuan pepper and an optional hit of Carolina Reaper.

Pitfire Pizza

Honey Bear

San Diego is finally a legitimate pizza town, and, in 2023, Carl got some James Beard–nominated star power with Pitfire (the OG is in North Hollywood). The perfectly charred Honey Bear gets three cheeses (ricotta, moz, provolone), a drizzle of honey, hunks of sausage, Calabrian chile, and a sprinkle of bee pollen.

Stella Jean’s Ice Cream

Strawberry Oat Crumble

When we’re not seduced by the flavor of the month, this is the always-there flavor we can’t quit: a base of sweetened oat milk blended with strawberries and woven with crumbly oats. It’s creamy, dreamy summer year-round.

Rainbow Cauliflower Taco

Lola 55

Lola 55 is a San Diego taco success story (hi, James Beard Bib Gourmand) created by Tijuana native Frank Vizcarra, a real brain who helped McDonald’s expand globally before striking out on his own with an ode to his mom’s food. This vegetarian delight comes stuffed with charred rainbow cauliflower and eggplant, avocado mousse, shaved almonds, cilantro, salsa, and raisins. Oddly delicious.

Nick’s On State

Warm Butter Cake

Nick’s is a comfort-food chain stalwart that does classics well. The signature dessert is warm butter and sugar melted together beneath a scoop of vanilla ice cream and berries. Share elsewhere—this is a solo desire.

Campfire

Pork

At Jeune et Jolie’s sister restaurant Campfire, smoke isn’t an accent—it’s a core attribute. Get the slab of smoked pork dressed with beans, luscious plums, and large-grain mustard. Kids are welcome (the DIY s’mores are a mandate; plus, there’s a massive teepee out back).

Steady State Roasting

Rosemary Latte

Appreciate the occasional zhuzh’ed-coffee? Steady State’s rosemary latte is the call. It’s
not often you see a culinary-herb espresso. Rosemary is a brute, but the baristas here use an appropriately delicate hand.

Ember & Rye

Hanger Steak

After a long kitchen-fire closure, Park Hyatt Aviara’s signature restaurant is remodeled and back with a hell of a chef duo: James Beard–nominated Jon Bautista (formerly of Kingfisher and The Fishery) and Top Chef and Next Level Chef star Richard Blais. Any steak will do, but an eight-ounce slab of prime hanger from Brandt Beef is otherworldly (and only $44). Order the BBQ glazed carrots with nasturtium flower honey and smoked butter.

Himalayan Sherpa Cuisine

Lamb Tikka Masala

I’m no doctor, but I’m pretty sure a plate of this richly spiced, tender lamb tikka masala will cure whatever ails you. Call in enough naan to mop up every last bit… stat.

Shorehouse Kitchen

Mango Pancakes

The fluffy mango-guava-compote-smothered pancakes here are a plate of sunshine. Sit outside; breathe in the sea breeze. This place is like a tropical vacation in the heart of Carlsbad Village.

The post 10 Must-Try Meals from Carlsbad Restaurants appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

Monster Jam

January 4-5, 11-12 | Snapdragon Stadium

After the new year, a few things go like clockwork. The holiday decorations are put away, the rest of the country gets jealous of our weather, and Grave Digger comes to town. Monster Jam may seem like a minor event, but it sells millions of tickets each year and in San Diego it fills two weekends of events and competitions at Snapdragon Stadium. Tickets start at $44, and festivities kickoff early with a Pit Party, where fans can see the massive trucks up close and meet the drivers and crews. 

December 19, 2024

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Tomorrow Golf League presented by SoFi

Tuesday, January 7 | 6:00 p.m. | SoFi Center, Palm Beach Gardens, FL

Where to Watch: ESPN

Two notable San Diegans are connected to TGL, the interactive, 3-on-3 golf league founded by some of golf’s biggest names, which starts play this month. Agustín Pizá’s San Diego-based design studio created eight of the holes for the new league, which plays on a massive indoor simulator in Florida. And world No. 2 golfer and Scripps High alum Xander Schauffele leads the New York Golf Club, one of six teams competing in the made-for-TV competition.

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“I think it’ll be a lot of fun. Hopefully, people enjoy the entertainment that comes out of it,” Schauffele told San Diego Magazine. Schauffele and his teammates kickoff TGL on January 7 at 6:00 p.m. on ESPN.

San Diego FC First Training Session

Monday, January 13 | San Diego

San Diego FC’s first training session won’t be televised and it isn’t open to the public, but it’s an occasion worth celebrating. After nearly two years of press releases, roster moves, and fan events, San Diego’s newest major sports team is at long last hitting the pitch. It’s the first step toward finalizing its inaugural roster and preparing for its Major League Soccer debut on February 23, in Los Angeles against the LA Galaxy. 

2025 Farmers Insurance Open

January 22-25 | Torrey Pines Golf Course

Where to Watch: CBS

The field isn’t finalized for the annual Farmers Insurance Open, but last year’s champion and world No. 30 Matthieu Pavon will tee off at Torrey Pines Golf Course to defend his crown. Several top golfers will join Pavon, including Jason Day, Hideki Matsuyama, and Justin Rose. So far, the field includes ten players in the top-50 of the Official World Golf Ranking, six major championship winners, and five past winners of the Farmers. But San Diego’s Xander Schauffele will no doubt be the fan favorite if he joins the field. Schauffele has won two majors, an Olympic gold medal, and a Ryder Cup, but one thing missing from his résumé is a victory in his hometown. If he joins the field at this year’s Farmers, then Schauffele will try to become the seventh San Diegan—following Phil Mickelson, Scott Simpson, Craig Stadler, Greg Twiggs, Billy Casper, and Gene Littler—to hoist the trophy.

SDSU Women’s Basketball vs. UNLV

Saturday, January 25 | 1:00 p.m. | Viejas Arena

Where to Watch: Mountain West Network

At 12-2 on the 2024-25 season, the San Diego State women’s basketball team has more wins and fewer losses than the celebrated men’s team, and recently opened their Mountain West Conference schedule with a resounding win over Boise State. Adryana Quezada led the team with 19 points on 9-for-12 shooting, a performance that resulted in the senior forward winning the Mountain West Player of the Week. Quazada’s Aztecs wrap up January with a game against another conference foe in UNLV, and great basketball isn’t the only thing they’re offering. The first 1,000 fans get a free replica jersey. 

The post 5 San Diego Sports Events to Watch: January 2025 appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

It was a tough year for restaurants, yet the silver linings were plenty. After another year of eating through the city, these were the silveriest of linings—the new restaurants that you gotta check out.

31ThirtyOne

Drew Deckman is a chef who worked his way up through the Michelin-star ranks in Europe before dropping out of that scene to work on fishing boats in the Southern Hemisphere. He became a better, sustainability-obsessed restaurateur because of that experience, and he recently earned more Michelin stars. It’s a full circle, which finally brought him to San Diego with this North Park spot. He’s about as good as they come.

Yakitori Tsuta

If you were making a pantheon of San Diego’s yakitoris (Japanese grill joints), Yakitori Hino and Yakyudori would be on that list. So it was big news when a longtime chef who cooked at both, Tatsuro Tsuchiya, opened Yakitori Tsuta this year in the Nijiya Market on Convoy Street. He’s doing an 18- to 20-course yakitori omakase that focuses primarily on every part and every rendition of chicken, fired over those famed binchotan coals (high-grade Japanese charcoal that burns hotter and cleaner). The dinners finish with a bowl of ramen.

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Roma Norte

Arguably the top cocktail-bar opening of 2024. The brothers and cousins who run Puesto have imported some serious talent into San Diego’s food scene, and two of them get their own cocktail show with this Mexico City–inspired cocktail joint in The Headquarters near Seaport Village. Beau DuBois was the beverage director of three-Michelin-starred The Restaurant at Meadowood, and his partner in crime Derek Cram made drinks at PDT and Momofuku. From a fig leaf old fashioned to mezcal habañero margaritas and a rum and housemade Coke (with a killer chicken sandwich), this is an evolution in city drinks. 

Happy Medium

If you had a great cocktail in a cool place over the last couple of decades, good chance these two excessively likable dudes created it. Happy Medium is the partnership between Eric Johnson and Christian Siglin, two of the principal architects of San Diego’s craft cocktail scene. They met at Noble Experiment way back when, then went on to lead spots such as Craft & Commerce, Sycamore Den, Camino Rivera, and Fernside. A laid-back, kid- and dog-friendly joint with excellent drinks (including booze slushees and on-tap negronis), plus chef-built riffs on fish n’ chips, sloppy joes, corn dogs, beef dips, and the like.

Knead Bakery

Adrian Mendoza went from Spago to Herb & Wood to Wayfarer to Urban Kitchen Group, earning a name as one of the top pastry chefs in San Diego in the process. Deserving a place of his own, he gets it with Knead. On the bottom of the new Symphony Towers, it’s part of the University Club’s impressive culinary revival (Knead is open to the public). Everything hits, but the croissants are the big pastry bang at the center of his talent universe (try the one with egg). 

Leila

We’re running out of superlatives with CH Projects (the architects of always-packed spots like Born & Raised and the Lafayette Hotel). The restauranteurs took an ordinary storefront in North Park and created a Lucas Films–caliber otherworld that evokes a pan-Middle Eastern night bazaar. It’s a group project, but it’s also personal for CH founder Arsalun Tafazoli. With breads (khobz, naan, barbari) and kabobs (koobideh, shishlik, joojeh) and sauces and sprinkles and dips (toum, amba, dukkah, zhoug), it’s a long-overdue main-staging for Middle Eastern food in San Diego. With 7,000 reservations before Leila even opened, the hype is real. 

Ponyboy

Well, this is a clown car of talent. The dining space at San Diego’s cool, midcentury-modern motel in Point Loma has always been poolside-petite. And the Ponyboy roster is unfairly stacked, with chefs and drinksmen and sommeliers from Addison, Lion’s Share, Wormwood, and CH Projects. It’s food from the Russia-might-nuke-us era, from TV dinners to deviled eggs to ambrosia and one of the best chicken Kievs the city’s seen since Reagan’s immaculate hair was on every TV.

Wildland

Restaurateur John Resnick and chef Eric Bost are the Daft Punk of North County’s coastal restaurant scene. They pretty much own State Street in Carlsbad now. The only problem with their twin winners Campfire and the Michelin-starred Jeune et Jolie is that they’re dinner-only. So they partnered on this all-day bakery/cafe/bar/restaurant across the street, with wine director Savannah Riedler (Juniper & Ivy in SD, Saison in SF), baker James Belisle (Per Se), and chef de cuisine Kaitlyn Jean Smith (M.B. Post and Bost’s pandemic-crushed beloved restaurant, Auburn).

November 26, 2024

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Haven Farm + Table

They built a commune in Encinitas around a farm and put a pretty stunning restaurant in the middle of it. Fox Point Farms is a new housing idea (or is it old, ancient?) in Encinitas where the restaurant has its own sustainable and regenerative farmer—plus one of my favorite humans in the food scene, chef Alex Carballo, paired with young-gun chef Kelston Moore. 

Le Coq

Tara Monsod is a force of good in the city’s food culture and a massive talent. Fresh off becoming the first San Diego chef to be named a finalist in the James Beard Awards, she helms the last restaurant for Puffer Malarkey (Herb & Wood, Herb & Sea, Animae)—a French steakhouse with an absolutely killer tuna crudo and a creamed spinach with an onion soubise. If you’ve followed the city’s food scene for any amount of time, you gotta see the final show from one of its top duos.

Sushi Maru

If you lived near downtown say, 20 years ago, you had exactly one good option for sushi—Taka. Behind the sushi case was chef Tsuyoshi “Maru” Maruyama. After going home to Japan for a brief time to care for family, he returned this year to build a 20-seat, omakase-only concept on Cortez Hill. Twenty courses, two hours. A lovely little place from a beloved local.

Communion

People who are gray and ashen in their hearts have said the building is too pink. As if a pop of color is satanic. Personally, I love Mission Hills’ new Golden-Girls-on-Pepto blush pink residential tower, The Sasan. And on the rooftop is a view restaurant led by some of the bigger talents in the city—chefs Mike Moritz (Mister A’s) and Jon Hawkins (George’s at the Cove), pastry chef Aly Lyng (George’s at the Cove), and bar specialists Eliza Woodman (Camino Rivera) and Marina Ferreira (Botanica). Best for me is the family behind it: Jacquee Renna Downing and her husband created the SD classic Pacifica Del Mar.

Cellar Hand

There’s a lot to like about this project. Chef Logan Kendall is a real talent and one of the biggest local-ingredient nerds I’ve met in a long while, known to appear tableside to make you taste some rare herb he found growing behind a barn in Ramona. It’s owned by Pali Wine Co, a father-son, family operation that started making low-intervention wines on the central coast (in Lompoc). Get the Thompson Heritage Ranch chicken liver pâté with orange wine jello cubes.

Sea & Sky

This is still lowkey one of the best views in San Diego, just like when it was Elario’s and jazz musicians were playing in the corner. Now it got a makeover from Hirsch Bedner Associates, who handled the holy-expletive Sphere in Dubai.

Amalfi Llama

Where once, eons ago, there was only the mighty Orange Julius and soccer-practice pizza, UTC’s transformation into a food Disney World is nearly complete. Its business model seems to be recruiting the most raved-about concepts from across the country (the first Shake Shack in San Diego landed here, plus Din Tai Fung, Javier’s, and Marugame Udon) to go with some beloved locals (CH Projects’ Raised by Wolves, Menya Ultra Ramen). Amalfi Llama is a breakout hit from Miami chef Jeffrey Mondaca (it’s helmed locally by Jaime Sebastian Chavez Monte-Alegre, formerly of Coasterra). It’s live-fire cooking that straddles Mediterranean and Patagonian food, with everything from woodfired pizzas and pastas to steaks and branzino.

Bivouac Adventure Lodge

If there’s a group making progress in San Diego, Lara Worm is probably a board member. This year, the queen of local craft cider debuted the elaborate Adventure Lodge, which is like a warm, welcoming yurt for North Park culture that quadruples as a cider tasting room, café, event space, and zen third place for the remote-work generation.

Finca

Every neighborhood needs a wine bar with good food, and now this is North Park’s. It comes courtesy three vets of top San Diego restaurants: front-of-house pro Dan Valerino and chef Joe Bower from Juniper & Ivy, plus partner Ricardo Dondisch, who ran probably the best service in the city at The Hake (RIP). Obsessive, approachable wines from Spain and small California growers, plus a killer yellowtail crudo and patatas bravas.

Desserts by Clement

The excellent Le Parfait Paris has served as a talent incubator for the bread arts in San Diego. Much like Sushi Ota spun off Hane and Himitsu and other top sushi spots for the betterment of the city, this year one of Le Parfait’s pastry chefs launched his own shop in PB. Clément Le Déoré, a lifelong baker, came direct from France, was a finalist on Food Network’s Spring Baking Championship, and launched his own commercial bakery that supplied The Hotel Del Coronado and The Westgate Hotel. He finally got a storefront with partner Romain Bonnet of Selling Sunset. They’re serving savory croissants (prosciutto, fig, brie, arugula), tarts, petit gateaux, and other delights. You gotta try the croissant rolls dipped in various pleasures (nutella, pistachio).

Merenda

What happens when a PhD in food anthropology and a guy who was raised in Oceanside hook up with one of the city’s top wine minds (Heidi Greenwood of Herb & Wood and Cucina Urbana), a consulting chef from Rustic Canyon (Travis Hayden), and the design team that built Jeune et Jolie and Broken Spanish (Bells + Whistles)? This place does. The food anthropology background means local farmers and ingredients are core identities for the wine shop and third place’s small menu (it has just a couple induction burners) that includes scallop ‘nduja, lamb tartare, pork and apples, grilled duck, and mushroom ravioli.

Tanner’s Prime Burgers

A three-Michelin-starred chef does a smash burger in San Diego and it’s every bit as good as you’d imagine. Tanner’s is the collaboration between SoCal’s ethical, good ranch operation, Brandt Beef, and Brandon Rogers, who was chef de cuisine at three-Michelin-starred Benu in San Francisco. Tanner’s also does beef tallow fries and tallow ice cream sandwiches. Oh, dear carnivore lords.

The post The Top 20: Best New San Diego Restaurants of 2024 appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

New Year’s Eve Events | Restaurants Open on New Year’s Eve

NYE Events in San Diego

Altitude NYE Party

Spend your evening on top of the world—or at least on top of San Diego—at the Altitude Sky Lounge at the Gaslamp Marriott. Overlook the festivities on Fifth Avenue as you sip a celebratory gin and tonic to the beats of a live DJ at this chic rooftop bar. Each guest receives a complimentary drink upon entry, a Champagne toast at midnight, and festive party favors. Opt for a VIP package to enjoy a bottle of Moët & Chandon and reserved seating for up to six guests. 

Address: 660 K Street, Gaslamp Quarter
Time: 7:30 p.m.–1:30 a.m.
Price: $97 for general admission | VIP Packages starting at $500

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Prohibition NYE Party

Party like it’s the 1920s at Prohibition Lounge in the Gaslamp Quarter this New Year’s Eve. Bring a friend or date to this speakeasy-style celebration, because each pair will receive a gift bag featuring a bottle of WhistlePig single-barrel whiskey and a VIP entrance token which grants you lifetime VIP access to the bar. Vibe out to the tunes of Karlos Paetz of the B-Side Players and practice your Charleston on the dancefloor. 

Address: 548 Fifth Avenue, Gaslamp Quarter
Time: 8 p.m.–1:30 a.m.
Price: VIP admission for two guests is $162

NYE Party Cruise Gatsby Yacht

Set sail on Gatsby’s yacht for an upscale New Year’s Eve Party Cruise. Tickets for this fancy jaunt get you a glass of Champagne, live music from four DJs, three-and-a-half-hour access to an open bar, and complimentary hors d’oeuvres. Celebrate aboard the Hornblower’s two spacious decks and channel your inner Gatsby or Daisy, old sport. 

Address: 1800 North Harbor Drive, Downtown
Time: 9:30 p.m.–1:30 a.m.
Price: $174 for general admission | VIP Packages starting at $1,069

Hard Rock Hotel NYE

Ring in the new year at the Hard Rock Hotel’s Glitz & Glamp Party on Fifth Avenue. With three floors of dancing, unique themed rooms, and 15 DJ spinning throughout the night, there’s plenty of fun for everyone. VIP packages include private areas, bottle service, and additional experiences. Staying the night? Book a ticket to the event along with a room starting at $640.

Address: 207 Fifth Avenue, Gaslamp Quarter
Time: 9 p.m.–2 a.m.
Price: Tickets start at $76

Proper NYE EDM Festival by CRSSD

Start the year with a bang at CRSSD’s Proper NYE Festival at Petco Park. The streets of downtown will pulse with dance music from headliners Eli Brown, Patrick Topping, and Marsh. Still going strong on January 1? The two-day festival offers another evening packed with EDM music, including performances by Charlotte de Witte, Salute, and Le Youth. 

Address: 100 Park Boulevard, Downtown
Time: 4:00 p.m.–12:30 a.m.
Price: NYE tickets are $200, including service fees

NYE Soirée at Rancho Bernardo Inn

Welcome 2025 with a classy soirée at Rancho Bernardo Inn. The event will feature an abundance of bites, such as charcuterie, seafood, flatbreads, potstickers, and a dessert station with New York cheesecake, tartlets, and more. The festive event also boasts an all-inclusive bar and live music by Daniel & the Outlaws. Book the Stay & Soirée package for $699, which includes two event tickets and overnight accommodation. 

Address: 17550 Bernardo Oaks Drive, Rancho Bernardo
Time: 9 p.m.–1 a.m.
Price: $199 per person

Big Night San Diego at Hilton San Diego Bayfront

This massive party includes food, drinks, and bar service in the Hilton San Diego Bayfront’s new lounge. VIP and all-inclusive packages grant you access to additional dance floors, more DJs sets, and premium buffets with open bars. 

Address: 1 Park Boulevard, Downtown
Time: Doors open at 9 p.m.
Price: Tickets start at $90 | Prices increase closer to NYE

PB NYE Pub Crawl 

Why go to one New Year’s Eve party when you can go to eight? Join the Pacific Beach NYE Pub Crawl to hop between eight bars, including The Beverly Beach Garden, Duck Dive, Cabo Cantina, and Baja Beach Cafe. Pubcrawlers will receive welcome shots, discounted food and drinks, and a midnight Champagne toast to top off the night. 

Address: 4190 Mission Boulevard, Mission Beach
Time: Starts at 8 p.m.
Price: Tickets start at $34

NYE 2025 with Steve Byrne at the American Comedy Co.

Laugh your way into 2025 with comedian Steve Bryne, known for his role in Sullivan & Son, at American Comedy Co. in the Gaslamp Quarter. Choose between two shows: an East Coast countdown at 7 p.m. and a West Coast countdown at 10 p.m. 

Address: 818 Sixth Avenue, Gaslamp Quarter
Time: East Coast Countdown Show: Doors open at 6:15 p.m.; show starts at 7 p.m. | West Coast Countdown Show: Doors open at 9:15 p.m.; show starts at 10 p.m.
Price: $29 for East Coast Countdown Show | $41 for West Coast Countdown Show

Deadmau5 at Nova SD

Catch Grammy Award–winning DJ Deadmau5 at Nova SD in East Village this NYE for an intimate performance. Feeling VIP? Reserve a booth with bottle service for $1,050 or more.

Address: 454 Sixth Avenue, Gaslamp Quarter
Time: Doors open at 10 p.m.
Price: $123, including fees

Restaurants Open on NYE in San Diego

Rockin NYE at The Laundry Pub at Hotel Del Coronado

Rock out this New Year’s Eve at the Hotel Del’s Laundry Pub. The hotel’s new gastropub offers live rock-n-roll music and an open bar. The pub will serve short ribs, smoked chicken, salads, sides, a seafood bar, and more. Participants must be 21 or older to attend. 

Address: 1500 Orange Avenue, Coronado
Hours: 10 p.m.–1 a.m.
Price: $189 per person
Reservations: Hotel Del Coronado

April 26, 2024

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NYE at Quixote

The Lafayette Hotel’s Mexican restaurant and mezcal bar, Quixote, slings a NYE special dining menu featuring steak tartare, tamal Jarocho with pork or jackfruit, and Plato Fuerte smoked brisket. Nothing says “hello, 2025” like shots of mezcal at midnight. 

Address: 2223 El Cajon Boulevard, North Park
Time: 12 p.m.–12 a.m.
Price: $189 per person
Reservations: OpenTable

Rustic Root

Visit this popular rooftop bar in the Gaslamp for a New Year’s Eve dinner this year. On December 31, Rustic Root will serve dinner specials like a koji-aged New York steak, ginger butter Maine lobster tail, and warm bittersweet chocolate cake. Reserve a table for dinner or opt for drinks and a front-row view of Fifth Avenue festivities. 

Address: 535 Fifth Avenue, Gaslamp Quarter
Time: 6–11 p.m.
Price: Dinner reservations require $10 deposit
Reservations: Tock

Kingfisher 

Spend New Year’s in Golden Hill indulging in a Vietnamese-French feast. This year, chef David Sims cooks up marinated saltspring mussels, spiny lobster congee, Wagyu beef ribs, and ice cream macaron sandwiches. Level up your dining experience with wine pairings for an extra $65.

Address: 2469 Broadway, Golden Hill
Time: 5–11 p.m.
Price: $150 per person | Optional wine pairing for an additional $65
Reservations: Tock

Finca 

North Park’s hottest new wine bar and tapas restaurant serves a four-course NYE dinner. Savor the spot’s extensive wine collection by reserving a wine pairing for an additional $40—or toast with one of Finca’s many vermouth drinks to welcome the new year. 

Address: 3066 North Park Way, North Park
Time: 5 p.m.–12:00a.m.
Price: $80 per person | Optional wine pairing for an additional $40
Reservations: Tock

Marine Room

Enjoy the last sunset of 2024 with an oceanside dinner at The Marine Room. Enjoy a four-course menu packed with miso-glazed Tasmanian sea trout, grilled chicory salad, and a triple mousse cake for dessert. Diners can catch live music from 6 to 10 p.m. 

Juniper and Ivy

New Juniper and Ivy executive chef Jonathan Kinsella will cook up a four-course, prix-fixe dinner featuring dishes like tuna crudo, raviolo carbonara, and winter squash risotto. Desserts include your choice of citrus pavlova curd or a chocolate mousse. 

Address: 2228 Kettner Boulevard, Little Italy
Time: 5–11 p.m.
Price: $195 per person
Reservations: OpenTable

Address: 1950 Spindrift Drive, La Jolla
Time: Dinner: 4:30–9 p.m. | Live music: 6–10 p.m.
Price: $195 per person | Optional wine pairing for an additional $95
Reservations: OpenTable

Ponyboy

Partnering with Tunaville, Ponyboy in Point Loma is hosting a festive crab boil event. Tickets to this seafood gathering get you a plate featuring two local rock crabs, potatoes, crackers, dinner rolls, and a glass of Champagne or Martinelli’s cider. Say hi to legendary San Diego fisherman Tommy Gomes, who will be in attendance.

Address: 1410 Rosecrans Street, Point Loma
Time: Crab Boil: 1–5 p.m. | Dinner: 5–10 p.m.
Price: $61 per person
Reservations: Eventbrite

Books & Records

Celebrate the New Year at Bankers Hill’s Books & Records with a “Studio 54” dinner, inspired by the golden era of disco. Enjoy a four-course menu alongside live music performed by the restaurant’s three-piece band. For an additional $50, upgrade to “Disco Sips,” a curated drink pairing with each course. Later in the evening, guests can join the Mirror-Ball-Drop Party, featuring a live DJ, hors d’oeuvres, and a complimentary midnight Champagne toast.

Address: 2202 Fourth Avenue, Bankers Hill
Time: Dinner – 5–10 p.m. | NYE Mirror-Ball-Drop Party 10 p.m.–12 a.m.
Price: Dinner: $75 per person | NYE Party: $46 per person
Reservations: OpenTable

Mister A’s

Pop bottles in style this year atop the 12th-floor deck at Mister A’s in Bankers Hill. This year’s NYE dishes include bison tartare, caviar toast, A5 Wagyu bites, red top pork belly, and Chilean sea bass. Don’t forget to save room for desserts like lemon meringue cheesecake, mud pie, brie brûlée, French silk pie, or coconut panna cotta. 

Address: 2550 Fifth Avenue, 12th floor, Bankers Hill
Time: 3:30–10 p.m. | Five-course, prix-fixe menu from 6:45 p.m. til close
Price: $185 per person or $135 per person for a vegetarian/vegan dinner
Reservations: OpenTable

Brickman’s

Celebrate New Year’s Eve in North County at Brickman’s. This lakeside designation offers a three-course, prix-fixe menu consisting of appetizers like shrimp cocktail and butternut squash bisque; entrées like seabass, chard cauliflower, and short rib; and a special dessert to cap off the night. Guests 21 and over will receive a complimentary glass of Orfila Wine upon arrival.

Address: 1750 San Pablo Drive, San Marcos
Time: 3–9 p.m.
Price: $71 per person
Reservations: OpenTable

The post Where to Celebrate New Years Eve in San Diego, 2024 appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

Thankfully, I’m back to enjoying any and all treats, but I know some of my friends aren’t so lucky. So, with November being Gluten-Free Diet Awareness Month, what better time to share the best gluten-free dessert spots in San Diego? Here are six bakeries worth visiting for mouthwatering gluten-free pastries. 

Gluten-Free Baking Co. 

Truthfully, GF baked goods don’t have the best rep. They’re usually small and not as flavorful as their gluten-filled counterparts. So Gluten-Free Baking Co. owner Roana took things into her own hands, starting her sensitivity-friendly baking journey after her son was diagnosed with multiple food allergies. 

I discovered Gluten-Free Baking Co.’s two locations (North Park and Clairemont) during the pandemic, and after a bite of their vegan chocolate chip cookie, I forgot the snack in my hand was even gluten-free. I have zero willpower when it comes to sweets, so after scarfing down the cookie, I dove into my assorted GF box, sampling donuts, cheesecake, and brioche bread. All delicious, whether you face allergies or not.

Address: 2647 Ariane Dr, Bay Ho
Hours: Daily 8 a.m.–2 p.m.

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Nectarine Grove

Locals with dietary restrictions love Encinitas’ Nectarine Grove for its 100-percent gluten-free and primarily organic offerings. While I could go on about my favorites on the breakfast menu, the real stars of the show here are the gluten-free baked goods. It’s nearly impossible for me to say no to Nectarine’s famous cinnamon rolls—the sweet icing and gooey center make for an unreal end cap to a savory brunch.

When the eatery opened a second location in Del Mar’s Flower Hill a few years ago, it introduced a close second on my favorite pastry list: the gluten-free croissant. Dare I say, they’re better than the ones in Europe. 

Address: 2720 Via De La Valle E110, Del Mar | 948 N Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas
Hours: Del Mar – Daily 8 a.m.–4 p.m. | Encinitas – Sunday–Thursday 8 a.m.–7 p.m

Gluten Freedom Baking Co.

Any eater with a gluten allergy knows what a joke gluten-free bread can be. Generally, you receive a cardboard-like square too small to be classified as a slice. Gluten Freedom Baking Company in Sorrento Valley fights the depressing stereotype with tasty sandwich breads and dinner rolls. Their loaves are two-pound behemoths (that freeze well, in case it’s just you chowing down on them). No more sad gluten-free avocado toast for breakfast. 

Another crowd favorite is the phenomenal chocolate chunk cookie. Gluten Freedom sells dough balls so you can bake them at home—though, unfortunately, mine rarely reach the cookie stage after I accidentally polish off a dozen hunks of delicious dough. 

Address: 8597 Spectrum Ln, Sorrento Valley
Hours: Tuesday–Friday 4:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.; Saturday 4:00 a.m.–3 p.m.; Monday 8 a.m.–12 p.m.; Closed Sundays

Starry Lane Bakery

My constant craving for a treat is at constant war with my desire to save money on eating out, but Starry Lane Bakery in Hillcrest makes it possible for me to enjoy sweets without the crazy price tag (a wild concept for gluten-free products). You can buy a sugar cookie for only $1.25 at Starry Lane. In this economy, that feels free. 

Aside from the incredible price, their holiday cookies taste as good, if not better, than the preservative- and gluten-filled cookies we grew up eating around the holidays. Starry Lane also sells baking mixes so you can re-create your own in the comfort of your kitchen. 

If sugar cookies aren’t your vibe, don’t sleep on the pretzel roll. I’d make a trip to the bakery just to secure one of these flaky, salty buns.

Address: 3925 Fourth Ave, Hillcrest
Hours: Wednesday-Sunday 9 a.m.–6 p.m.; Closed Monday and Tuesday

Phatties Bake Shop

I’m an OG Krispy Kreme stan, so it’s not every day I find a gluten-free donut that can compete. Phatties Bake Shop in Point Loma serves up some of the best in the county. 

These aren’t your average glazed flavor either—think s’mores, maple bacon, and cookie dough.

For more formal occasions, Phatties offers vegan and gluten-free cakes, which, to my surprise, don’t at all taste like they’re lacking standard ingredients like eggs and all-purpose flour. The shop won’t customize your cake, but the incredible flavors and adorable cake toppers make up for it.

Address: 4143 Voltaire St, Ocean Beach
Hours: Daily 7 a.m.–2 p.m.

Paleo Treats 

I still find it shocking when something healthy tastes really, really good, but Paleo Treats makes it happen. Paleo Treats serves gluten- and dairy-free treats (plus vegan and keto options) out of a Normal Heights storefront. I’m a huge chocolate lover, so my go-tos are the brownie bomb and the Bandito, a keto version of a Reese’s peanut butter cup. 

Even better: Paleo Treats delivers via Uber Eats, GrubHub, and DoorDash, so you don’t even have to step outside to satisfy that sugar craving. 

Address: 3275 Adams Ave # A, Normal Heights
Hours: Daily 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

Chani’s Donuts

Chani’s Donuts (pronounced Shaw-nee’s) is a Kearny Mesa gem with sweet treats for everyone. Known for its adorable mini donuts, this bakery specializes in gluten-free, vegan, and allergen-free creations that taste as good as they look. Fan favorites include the churro donut dusted with cinnamon sugar, the apple pie flavor that tastes like a slice of nostalgia, and the indulgent raspberry truffle. With its whimsical, circus-inspired interior, picking up a dozen feels like a celebration all its own.

Address: 5250 Murphy Canyon Rd Suite 118, Kearny Mesa
Hours: Monday-Thursday 7:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.; Friday-Saturday 7:00 a.m–8:00 p.m.; Closed Sunday

The post Where to Get Gluten-Free Pastries in San Diego appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

Christmas Dinner Specials | Christmas Buffets | Restaurants Open on Christmas

Christmas Dinner Specials in San Diego

The Grill at Torrey Pines

Upgrade your holiday game with a three-course dinner that’s as extra as it sounds. The Lodge at Torrey Pines is serving up seasonal bites like parsnip soup, caramelized scallops, and chocolate peppermint mousse from executive chef Kelli Crosson and chef de cuisine Ryan Dzierzawski. Oh, and did we mention the views? Picture yourself digging into your holiday meal with the iconic Torrey Pines Golf Course as your backdrop. 

• Price: $135 for adults | $65 for kids (11 and under) 
• Hours: Dec. 25 | 11:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. 
• Address: 11480 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla
• Reservations: OpenTable

Solare

Who isn’t up for special Italian holiday dishes? Start your Christmas Eve at Solare, with a prix-fixe menu crafted by Randy and the Solare Team. Family-owned and operated, Solare will be sharing traditional cuisine from Italy including fresh pasta made each morning and organic produce, wild fish, and hormone-free meats the entire evening.

• Price: $68 + per person | Holiday kids menu will be available 
• Hours: Dec. 24 | 12:00 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. | Closed on Dec. 25
• Address: 2820 Roosevelt Road, Point Loma
• Reservations: OpenTable

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Provisional Kitchen at the Pendry

Christmas Dinners always come with a twist, so why not make it one with great food and a touch of holiday luxury? At the Pendry San Diego, executive chef Brandon Sloan’s three-course special menu features dishes that are as indulgent as they are memorable. Black truffle french onion soup, glazed duck breast, and bourbon bread pudding—the good kind of holiday twist.

• Price: $105 per adult | $40 per child
• Hours: Dec. 25 | 4:00 p.m.– 9:00 p.m.
• Address: 550 J St, Gaslamp Quarter
• Reservations: OpenTable

October 25, 2024

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Valle 

If a six-course holiday menu perfectly paired with specially selected wines that complement each dish sounds like your kind of celebration, then Valle is the place to be this Christmas. Chef Roberto Alcocer’s decadent flavors complemented with an optional holiday wine pairing will prove that it really is the most wonderful time of the year.

• Price: $200 per person
• Hours: Dec. 24 | 5:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
• Address: 222 North Pacific Street, Oceanside
• Reservations: Tock

Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine

Christmas meets modern coastal cuisine at Gaslamp’s Lionfish. Treat yourself to their Holiday Large Cast Iron featuring a half roasted duck, duck confit stuffing, harvest mashed potatoes, and buttery biscuits all by chef Jojo Ruiz.

• Price: $75 per person
• Hours: Dec. 24 | 5:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m. 
• Address: 435 Fifth Ave, Gaslamp Quarter
• Reservations: OpenTable

Mister A’s 

Celebrate Christmas with stunning skyline views and food to match it. Start with appetizers like beet and arugula salad, French onion soup, or black truffle cacio e pepe. For the main course, enjoy A5 Wagyu bavette, lamb osso buco, or Chilean sea bass. You can even indulge in desserts like vanilla crème brûlée or caramel apple cheesecake. 

• Price: Dec. 24 $115 per person and $45 for children (12 and under) | Dec. 25 $105 per person and $45 for children (12 and under)
• Hours: Dec. 24, 4:30–9 p.m. | Dec. 25, 12–7 p.m
• Address: 2550 Fifth Ave 12th floor, Bankers Hill
• Reservations: OpenTable

Marine Room

The Marine Room brings the Christmas flavors and beauties of the Turks and Caicos lifestyle right to La Jolla. Their holiday curated menu blends seasonal favorites, like chestnut spinach ricotta cannelloni, ferrari island salmon crudo, and roasted whole fresh branzino, paired with the restaurant’s coastal flair.

• Price: $165 per person
• Hours: Dec. 24 and Dec. 25 | 4:30–9:00 p.m.
• Address: 904 Spindrift Drive, La Jolla
• Reservations: OpenTable

Juniper + Ivy

This previously abandoned warehouse turned impressive social dining space invites San Diegans to spend Christmas Eve at theirs! With a four-course prix fixe, crafted by executive chef, Jonathan Kinsella and pastry chef Amanda Santiago, you can have your holiday choosings of Kusshi oysters, pumpkin spiced kabocha squash agnolotti, koa king salmon, and an assortment of mignardise for entire the table.

• Price: $168 per person
• Hours: Dec. 24 | 5 p.m.–9 p.m.
• Address: 2228 Kettner Blvd, Little Italy
• Reservations: OpenTable

Ranch 45 

Don’t worry, take out on Christmas is always an option. A customizable a la carte holiday feast at Ranch 45 offers choices from herb-crusted prime rib, braised short rib, smoked turkey legs, 45-day aged ribeye, and smoked cornish game hen, plus desserts such as pecan pie, pumpkin cheesecake, and apple Crisp. Perfect for Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, this pick-up menu offers the flexibility to create your ideal holiday at-home spread.

• Hours: Pre-orders due by Dec. 17 at 4:00 p.m. for pick-up on Dec. 24 
• Address: 437 S. Highway 101, Solana Beach
• Order Online: Ranch 45

Huntress and Lumi

This year, Huntress will be providing holiday dining just as impressive as its steaks. This year, they’ll be serving their traditional menu along chef specials such as beef Wellington with mushroom duxelle, creamy lobster risotto with a hint of preserved lemon, and caviar deviled eggs.

• Hours: Huntress: Dec. 24 | 5:00 p.m. – 9 p.m and Dec. 25 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
• Address: Huntress: 376 Fifth Ave, Gaslamp Quarter
• Reservations: Huntress OpenTable

Herb & Wood

Herb & Wood combines rustic, wood-fired dishes with Mediterranean flavors, embracing a California feeling of seasonality and sustainability. With just a touch of Southern charm, it feels right at home in Southern California. Chef Adian’s specials like beef tartare, wild boar sausage, creamy mushrooms and whole tiger prawns is the “timeless yet approachable” choice for a Christmas Eve dinner.

• Price: $92 per adult | $37 per child.
• Hours: Dec. 24 | 3:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
• Address: 2210 Kettner Blvd, Little Italy

Roy’s

Marriott Marquis, Roy’s San Diego gives the gift of aloha this season. With picturesque views of San Diego Bay, this restaurant celebrates Christmas with a three-course holiday menu featuring everything from 8 oz. filet mignon to tempura lobster tail. End the holidays blissfully on the bayfront, while indulging in Hawaiian fusion cuisine.

• Hours: Dec. 25 | 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. 
• Address: 333 West Harbor Drive, Downtown
• Reservations: OpenTable

Christmas Dinner Buffets in San Diego

Dockside 1953

Why stress over Christmas dinner when you can escape to lush tropical gardens and miles of sandy beaches? The Bahia Resort provides a dockside three-course Christmas Eve meal at Dockside 1953, and this chef-curated menu is all about options. Think tender beef, bergamot-infused duck, or Mediterranean sea bass—and dessert that melts together with a chocolate and Nutella yule log. And if that wasn’t enough, on Christmas Day the resort has a brunch buffet where seafood lovers can indulge in fresh oysters, while breakfast fans build their ultimate eggs Benedict. 

• Price: Dinner: $79+ per person | Brunch: $150 for adults | $50 for kids (5–12) | Free for kids (4 and under) 
• Hours: Dec. 24 | 5:00–9:00 p.m. & Dec. 25 | 10:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (last seating at 2:30 p.m.)
• Address: 998 W Mission Bay Dr, Mission Beach
• Reservations: Bahia Hotel Resort

ARLO

Award-winning ARLO restaurant will be open for both a plated dinner and a lively reception-style dinner. Chill indoors or head out to the cozy fireplace patio for stunning resort views. Need a little extra space? Semi-private areas and full buyouts are available for a more intimate gathering. ARLO has options to match any holiday vibe with custom or set menu choices with tasty bites like Wagyu tartare, thyme roasted pork chop, salmon wontons, and even Calabrian chili prawns.

• Price: $90 per person | $38 for children (12 & under)
• Hours: Dec. 25, 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
• Address: 500 Hotel Circle North, Mission Valley
• Reservations: OpenTable

Pony Room

Open Christmas Eve, Rancho Valenci’s signature grand holiday-inspired buffet at the Pony Room allows customers to choose between traditional trimmings, seafood station, carving station, and endless delicious culinary creations like Nueske’s Honey Spiral Cut Ham and 4 oz. Petrossian Caviar. Between live music, horse-drawn carriage rides and cookie decorating it’s the ideal setting for celebrating with friends and family. Plus, this year Pony Room is offering this Christmas buffet to-go!

• Price: $235+ per person | Children ages 4-11 $95+ | Free for children 3 and under
• Hours: Dec. 25 | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Address: 5921 Valencia Cir, Rancho Santa Fe
• Reservations: Call (858)759-6246

Hotel Del Coronado

Nothing says “quintessential San Diego winter” quite like ice skating at the Hotel del Coronado’s iconic beachfront rink. Perfect for making holiday memories, The Del also hosts a lush Christmas Eve dinner buffet full of traditional favorites as well as a Christmas day brunch. Grab your fur coat because holidays at The Del are a glamorous tribute to Hollywood’s golden age.

• Price: $205 per adult | Children ages 5 – 12: $100 | Children 4 years and under complimentary with a paying adult 
• Hours: Dec. 24 | 2:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. & Dec. 25 | 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
• Address: 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado
• Reservations: Hotel Del Coronado

Coasterra

Christmas at Coasterra is a classic. This modern Mexican restaurant, surrounded by a mural-painted main dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows, transforms into an expansive Christmas buffet on the solar-heated patio, complete with skyline views of Coronado. While the buffet features holiday classics, Coasterra also serves signature dishes like gluten-free tortilla soup, cheese and rajas tamales, and cauliflower al pastor.

• Price: $94.95 per adult | $24.95 per child (under 6 free) 
• Hours: Dec. 25th, 12:00–7:00 p.m. 
• Address: 880 B Harbor Island Drive, Shelter Island
• Reservations: OpenTable

Fairmont Grand Del Mar

Who isn’t up for a Christmas feast alongside 400 acres of nature’s dreamlike scenery? The Fairmont Grand Del Mar is hosting an extravagant dining event at the Manchester Salon with a lavish buffet featuring culinary delights, traditional holiday favorites, and live entertainment. Did I mention the twinkling palm trees and sparkling 25-foot tree to really set the festive season?

• Price: $195 per adult | $85 per child (ages 3-12)
• Hours: Dec. 25 | 10:30 am to 2:00 p.m.
• Address: 5300 Grand Del Mar Court, Carmel Valley

San Diego Restaurants Open on Christmas

Echale 

Who says traditional Christmas Eve dinner needs a glazed ham and roasted turkey? Experience a neighborhood restaurant and wine bar serving a mix of California, Mediterranean, and Spanish-style cuisine. This North County Mexican restaurant on the Coast highway serving green chili burgers and tuna crudo might be the present you’ve been waiting for. 

• Hours: Dec. 24.| 5:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.
• Address: 947 S Coast Hwy 101 Suite 103D, Encinitas
• Reservations: OpenTable

Eddie V’s

Ready to trade cookies and milk for prime seafood? Open Christmas Eve with two locations, Eddie V’s dinner menu highlights their iconic shellfish tower featuring wild jumbo gulf shrimp, blue point oysters, royal ossetra petrossian caviar and lobster from Maine on ice. Not the biggest seafood lover? Don’t worry, Eddie V classic appetizers, premium hand-cut steaks, and “cocktails with attitude” are available, too!

• Hours: Dec. 24 | 4:00-9:00 p.m.
• Address: 1270 Prospect St, La Jolla and 789 W Harbor Dr Suite 158, Downtown
• Reservations: La Jolla OpenTable and Downtown OpenTable

VUE

Located just inside the Spanish Mission-style property of Omni La Costa Resort & Spa‘s, sits VUE. Open for Christmas Day, the resort’s renowned restaurant specializes in prime rib with au jus and horseradish cream, buttery potato puree and roast fennel with squash. Holiday desserts like a pear almond tart with cranberry coulis and white chocolate dust will also be available, all while enjoying the Omni’s championship golf courses.

• Hours: Vue will be open on Dec. 25 only | 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
• Address: 2100 Costa Del Mar Rd, Carlsbad
• Reservations: OpenTable

Shan Xi Magic Kitchen

Spice lovers, this is for you. Experience knife-cut noodles and bold, vinegary flavors at this restaurant inspired by the Shanxi region in northern China. For a Christmas dinner that’s both unique and satisfying, try customer favorites like hot and sour soup dumplings, spicy twice-cooked pork, cucumber salad, and cumin lamb biang noodles. Shan Xi Magic Kitchen is proof that the holidays don’t have to mean a dry turkey…

• Hours: Dec 25 | 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.
• Address: 4344 Convoy St, Kearny Mesa

Ciccia Osteria

Cherish Christmas day with a taste of authentic Italian cuisine at Michelin-recognized restaurant Ciccia Osteria. Tucked within the neighborhood of Barrio Logan, chefs Francesca Penoncelli and Mario Casineri have created a cozy osteria and serve up holiday specials and classic Italian menu items such as homemade cappelli and spaghetti pomodoro, accompanied perfectly with a house Cab.

• Hours: Dec. 24, 12:00 p.m.–2 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.–9:15 p.m. | Dec. 25 4:30–9:15 p.m.
• Address: 2233 Logan Ave, Barrio Logan
• Reservations: OpenTable

YinTang Spicy Hot Pot

This Taiwanese hot pot in Kearny Mesa is the perfect comfort food for the Christmas season. The menu is ingredient rich with choices of beef, fish, tofu, fish balls, and fresh vegetables. Add some heat to the holiday with your choice of bone broth or a dry, spicy mix. Revel in a Christmas dinner that’s just as interactive as it is delicious.

• Hours: Dec. 25 | 11:30 a.m.–9:30 p.m.
• Address: 4690 Convoy St #111, Kearny Mesa

Ember & Rye

For a holiday dinner that’s all about smoked prime rib with black truffle au jus, journey to Ember & Rye, where chef Richard Blais brings his exclusive Christmas cuisine. Set overlooking the 18th green, this one-of-a-kind steakhouse combines bold flavors with a more laid-back, vintage clubhouse vibe. Enjoy Ember & Rye classic dinner menu, also still available, of mouth watering steaks, fresh seafood, and dishes inspired by local ingredients.

• Hours: Dec. 25 | 5:30–9:00 p.m.
• Address: 7447 Batiquitos Dr, Carlsbad
• Reservations: OpenTable

Benihana

Craving hibachi steak or yakisoba for Christmas? Benihana is open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, but you’ll want to secure a reservation early for a spot around their hibachi grill to watch as a personal chef prepares your very own traditional Japanese dinner. Come ready to witness ingredients tossed in the air (or at you), onion towers on fire, and eggs magically appearing.

• Hours: Dec. 24 11 a.m.–10 p.m. | Dec. 25 11 a.m.–11 p.m.
• Address: 477 Camino del Rio S, Mission Valley
• Reservations: OpenTable

Sea & Sky

Dine on a menu that cooks up the rich flavors of the Pacific Ocean. Sea & Sky intertwines their coastal cuisine with the holiday sharpness of slow roasted prime ride roast. It’s surf and turf at its best—start with grilled octopus, then dive into the Kurobuta pork chop topped with miso-squash purée and walnut crumble.

• Hours: Dec. 24 | 5:00 p.m.- 9:00 p.m.
• Address: 7955 La Jolla Shores Dr, La Jolla
• Reservations: OpenTable

Quixote

If Oaxacan fondue is on your Christmas palette this year, head to Quixote inside the infamous LaFayette Hotel. With rich titled glass windows, dark wood paneling decor and low lit lighting, Quixote makes for an incomparable Christmas dinner. Spoil yourself with chili garlic shrimp tacos, braised lamb belly, fritters, and their one-of-a kind cocktails.

• Hours: Dec. 25 | 12:00 p.m–12:00 a.m.
• Address: 2223 El Cajon Boulevard, North Park
• Reservations: OpenTable

Beginners Diner

Now, if you’re seeking out a more nostalgic festive dinner, The LaFayette Hotel’s Beginners Diner will also be open 24 hours on Christmas day. This restaurant is a replica of a traditional diner from the 1940s, with red neon lighting mirroring the diner-esqu bar stools. In addition to reflective chrome walls, Beginners Diner offers classics like corned beef hash, deviled eggs, and banana bread pudding french toast.

• Hours: Dec. 25 | Open 24 hours
• Address: 2223 El Cajon Boulevard, North Park

Amalfi Cucina Italiana

Head to Amalfi Cucina Italiana and relish in the joy of twenty pizza options and eight pasta shapes, all paired with your choice of sauce and handmade by chef Marcello. Cap your night with a personally crafted old fashion, negroni cocktails, or even an espresso martini. And, with locations in San Marcos, Carmel Valley, and Oceanside, they’re celebrating the Christmas season all throughout the North County with festive lights and authentic Italian flavors.

• Hours: Dec. 25 | Amalfi Cucina Italiana – Carmel Valley: 4:00 p.m.-9 p.m. | Amalfi Cucina Italiana – San Marcos: 4:30 p.m.-10:00 p.m. | Amalfi Cucina Italiana – Oceanside: 12 p.m.-3:00 p.m. and 4:30-9:00 p.m.
• Address: Amalfi Cucina Italiana – Carmel Valley, 5980 Village Way #106, Carmel Valley | Amalfi Cucina Italiana – San Marcos, 1035 La Bonita Dr, San Marcos | Amalfi Cucina Italiana – Oceanside, 221 N Cleveland St, Oceanside
• Reservations: OpenTable Carmvel Valley | OpenTable San Marcos | Open Table Oceanside

Gravity Heights

Even with all the extravagant Christmas meals, sometimes all you really need is some good mac & cheese. At Gravity Heights, you’ll find classic munchies like cheesy pasta, barbecue pulled pork dirty fries, and sweet chili chicken wings. If that doesn’t do it for your taste buds, their wood-fired hot agave pizzas or tikka masala chicken pot pie dinner entrees just might!

• Hours: Dec. 25 | Gravity Heights, Sorrento Valley: 11am – 8:30 p.m. | Gravity Heights, Mission Valley: 11:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m.
• Address: Gravity Heights, Sorrento Valley: 9920 Pacific Heights Blvd, Sorrento Valley | Gravity Heights, Mission valley 525 Camino De La Reina, Mission Valley
• Reservations: OpenTable Sorrento Valley | OpenTable Mission Valley

The post Where to Get Christmas Dinner in San Diego, 2024 appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

No. 24 SDSU Men’s Basketball vs. University of San Diego

Saturday, December 7 | 7:00 p.m. | Viejas Arena

Watch: YurView

After beating No. 21 Creighton and No. 6 Houston in a span of four days, SDSU has crashed the AP‘s Top 25 Men’s College Basketball Poll, landing at No. 24 in the latest rankings. It’s a familiar story for coach Brian Dutcher’s team. After an unremarkable start to the 2022-23 season, SDSU won 25 of their last 28 games to reach the national championship game. Last year, they lost seven games in a 15-game stretch before turning it around to make the Sweet Sixteen.

“When we scheduled this season, I knew I had a good team, but could we be good in November?“ Dutcher said after the recent victory over Houston. “It was a daunting four-game stretch with [Gonzaga], Creighton, Oregon, and Houston. But we played good basketball, and we did what we had to do.” The Aztecs will look to climb the rankings against crosstown rivals USD. 

November 25, 2024

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San Diego Seals vs. Colorado Mammoth

Friday, December 13 | 7:30 p.m. | Pechanga Arena

Breakout the eyeliner and let your top eight on Myspace know that the Seals are back in action and hosting Emo Night at their game on Friday, December 13. But there’s no reason to be sad about San Diego’s National Lacrosse League franchise. In the five seasons since their inception in 2019, the Seals have compiled a 53-31 record and have never missed the NLL playoffs. (The 2020 season was cancelled due to Covid-19.) Led by captain and star forward Wes Berg, the Seals look to build on last season’s successful 13-win campaign that ended in the NLL semifinals. Tickets start at $21 and the angsty singalongs are free.

San Diego Santa Run

Saturday, December 14 | 8:00 a.m. | 912 Garnet Avenue, Pacific Beach

Staged by San Diego Running Company, the San Diego Santa Run sees over 30,000 Santa Clauses descend from the North Pole to race through warm and sunny Pacific Beach. It’s why USA Today has named it the “best fun run” in the country, and it immediately precedes the PB Holiday Parade. There may not be a more festive day in San Diego. Registration for the 5K is $55, and includes a Santa suit and a drink ticket, redeemable at Mavericks Beach Club. Kids and pets don’t have to miss the festivities, either. For $35, they can participate in a one-miler. 

2024 DIRECTV Holiday Bowl

Friday, December 27 | Time: 5:00 p.m. | Snapdragon Stadium

Watch: Fox

The 44th edition of the DIRECTV Holiday Bowl has something for everyone. There’s the Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade, billed as “America’s Largest Balloon Parade,” and the Snapdragon Bowl Bash downtown. For those wanting to relive the glory days, there’s a tailgate party, and for those who want to burn off their holiday feasts there’s a 5K walk/run. And of course, there’s the Holiday Bowl game itself, which is typically one of college football’s best matchups of the year and one of San Diego’s great sports traditions.

“Last year’s game was fantastic with a strong USC performance over the highly ranked Louisville Cardinals,” said Jackie Reed, 2024 president of Sports San Diego. “We can’t wait for this year’s game at our new home at Snapdragon Stadium.” Teams will be announced on December 8, but tickets are available now.

San Diego Clippers vs. Memphis Hustle

Sunday, December 29 | 6:00 p.m. | Frontwave Arena

The NBA G League Clippers made their San Diego debut last month, and at 5-3 on the year they’re giving fans at Oceanside’s new Frontwave Arena an exciting brand of team basketball. None of the Clippers are one of the G League’s top-five scorers, yet the Clips are the third highest-scoring team. Led by guard Jordan Miller’s 20 points-per-game, they’re getting contributions from every position on the floor. There are two home games this month to see them in action, but the December 29 game against the Memphis Hustle stands out as First Responders Night. Tickets start at $18.

The post 5 San Diego Sports Events to Watch: December 2024 appeared first on San Diego Magazine.