Featured articles
Featured articles
Featured articles
What's next
Featured articles
Featured articles
Featured articles
Ready to know more about San Diego?
SubscribeReady to know more about San Diego?
A Guide to the City's Most Captivating Attractions
Screenshot 2023-06-01 at 4.28.25 PM.png
Kansas City is a wonderful city with so much to offer, and it’s easy to get lost in all the sights and sounds of this metropolitan area. From its vibrant art and culture to its world-class museums and landmarks, there is something for everyone in this Midwestern gem. No wonder you can get confused about what to see and what to miss in Fountain City.
Fortunately, you have stumbled upon the right post at the right time. Whether you’re a tourist looking to explore the city’s captivating attractions or a resident looking to get out and enjoy all that Kansas City has to offer, the following guide has it all. So, grab your travel bag and let us explore the attractions of Kansas City!
The National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial is a must-see for anyone interested in WWI history. This 60,000-square-foot facility tells the story of the war from multiple perspectives, from the battlefield to the home front. You’ll explore more than 6,000 artifacts, learn about the contributions of African Americans in WWI, and take part in educational workshops and talks. There are also virtual tours that allow you to experience aspects of the museum like never before.
But that’s only part of what makes this museum so special. The architecture is stunning; you can appreciate it all while wandering through the facility. Interactive displays transport you back in time, and special events and programs commemorate WWI’s centennial year. Don’t forget to check out the Memorial Courtyard and Fountain, a beautiful place to take a break during your visit.
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is a must-see for anyone in the Midwest. With more than two million objects on display, the museum has something for everyone. The museum has something to offer everyone, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary art. Additionally, the museum features rotating special exhibits that feature traveling works.
One of the best ways to experience the museum is by taking one of its free tours. These tours are designed for all levels of visitors and cover various topics, from art history to fashion design. You can also explore the museum by checking out its extensive collection catalog or taking advantage of one of its many interactive exhibitions.
If you’re looking for some family fun, check out one of Nelson-Atkins’ special events like Storytime in the Garden or Family Fun Fridays at 2 p.m. Besides, Nelson-Atkins is home to Bloch Lobby. In this peaceful oasis, you can relax after a busy day exploring the museum’s vast collection. And if you need some inspiration (or want some live music), try out Artist Spotlights, which is a new series featuring live music performances throughout the year. Last but not least, don’t forget about Picture Day. Families can take photos with their favorite paintings at this event right inside the museum.
Screenshot 2023-06-01 at 4.28.29 PM.png
There’s no doubt that Kansas City is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. Not only is it home to some of the world’s most iconic attractions, but it also has a variety of things to offer visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking for family fun, educational opportunities, or just something different, there’s something here for you.
One of the main attractions in Kansas City is the LEGOLAND Discovery Center. This center offers a wide range of fun and exciting attractions that are perfect for young and old alike. From rides like Tower of Terror to interactive exhibits like The LEGO Movie Adventure, there’s something for everyone at the LEGOLAND Discovery Center.
Kansas City also has plenty to offer visitors who want to stay nearby without having to leave the city limits. These include Arrowhead Stadium, where NFL games are played, as well as Kauffman Stadium, where baseball games and other events take place. So, yes, you can definitely go with the flow and try your hand at sports betting in Kansas. Not to forget, the infamous DraftKings Kansas promo code will always give you a strong foothold while you place bets on your dream in the dream city. There are also many restaurants, shopping malls, and nightlife options within easy reach if you’re looking for some downtime after exploring these amazing attractions.
Another great attraction in Kansas City is the Arabia Steamboat Museum. This museum features a diverse range of attractions that will appeal to visitors, young and old alike. There are rides like The Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean, as well as museums like The Magic of Disney Animation and Flight Simulator Experience, with more on the way. Plus, there are always new exhibits being added, so you can always keep exploring.
Screenshot 2023-06-01 at 4.28.33 PM.png
The Kansas City Zoo is home to some fascinating and rare animal species, which makes for an exciting visit. Located in the heart of the city, the zoo provides a window into local biodiversity. From leopards to zebras, visitors can explore a variety of amazing animals that live in the area. In addition to animal exhibitions, some educational talks and displays provide valuable information about these creatures.
There are also several exciting events and programs that are perfect for all ages. From special workshops on wildlife conservation to family-friendly activities like petting zoos, there’s something for everyone at the Kansas City Zoo. And if you’re looking for an opportunity to learn more about nature in general, don’t miss the zoo’s nature walks or bird-watching tours.
Finally, stop by one of our fun and interactive activities like obstacle courses or giant Jenga towers. These activities will give you a chance to get close to nature while having lots of fun. And if that’s not enough, check out the seasonal specials and programs that offer unique opportunities to spot wild animals in their natural habitats. Visiting the Kansas City Zoo is a great way to learn more about local biodiversity and fascinating animal species.
The Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art is a must-see for art lovers in the St. Louis area. With a searchable database of exhibits, an overview of the museum’s mission, collections, and programming, and information on featured artists and events, this museum has something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of contemporary art or just looking to learn more about it, the Kemper Museum has everything you need.
One of the great features of the Kemper Museum is its expansive collection of contemporary art. You can explore everything from painting to sculpture to video art in this fascinating museum. You can also find pieces by well-known artists like Jeff Koons and Roy Lichtenstein. And don’t forget about the rotating exhibitions. There’s always something new to see at the Kemper Museum.
While visiting the Kemper Museum is definitely an experience you won’t want to miss, be prepared with some tips before you go. For example, know what tickets you need and how much they cost before purchasing. And remember that children under 12 are free with an adult admission ticket (saving the kids some money while they enjoy some great artwork). Ultimately, consider donating to support the museum’s ongoing programming. Your donation will go a long way toward helping to keep the Kemper Museum thriving.
Screenshot 2023-06-01 at 4.28.38 PM.png
Are you a fan of Hallmark? If so, then you won’t want to miss the chance to explore the fascinating history of the iconic American brand at the Hallmark Visitors Center at Crown Center in Kansas City. Since 1910, Hallmark has been a part of our lives, from cards to gifts, and the Visitors Center is the perfect place to learn more about its history.
The Hallmark Visitors Center is located in the Crown Center complex and tells the story of how Joy Hall created an international institution based on caring. The center has displays about the history of the company, including interactive stations and a movie. Also, Kaleidoscope, a place for kids to be creative, is open to kids of all ages and has tools and help from experts to help kids use their imaginations. Sessions last 50 minutes and are free of charge. This allows children to explore their creativity while learning about the greeting card industry in one place.
Screenshot 2023-06-01 at 4.28.42 PM.png
Have you ever wanted to explore the world of antique toys and miniature masterpieces? If so, then the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures is the perfect place for you. With over 72,000 items in its collection, the museum is home to some of the most unique and interesting antiques, toys, miniatures, and collectibles from around the world. Founded in 1982 by Mary Harris Francis and Barbara Marshall’s private collections, this fascinating museum resides on the campus of the University of Missouri–Kansas City.
The 33,000 square feet of the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures can be explored in different ways by people who go there. Some people like to look at its old toys, which include figures, dolls, and games like Telematic Radio Orphan Annie Pin (1938), as well as lead soldiers (with molds) and agate marbles. Special events like marble tournaments, Saturday morning cartoons, and cereal bowls give adults a chance to relive their childhood memories. Whether you’re a toy collector or not, there’s no doubt that you’ll enjoy exploring this fascinating museum.
Screenshot 2023-06-01 at 4.28.47 PM.png
Westport is a famous and popular place to visit in Kansas City. It got its name from the fact that it was the westernmost settlement before pioneers started moving west. The neighborhood is known for its trendy restaurants, boutiques, antique stores, and galleries. It’s also home to many of the city’s newest theaters and concerts. Beyond the standard attractions found in any other part of Kansas City, Westport offers a unique experience that is not to be missed.
Take a walk down memory lane at the Harris House Museum, which tells the story of Westport from over 150 years ago. During the Civil War, this area played an important role as it was the site of the battle of Westport, which ended it. Today, Westport is a thriving neighborhood with plenty to offer visitors year-round, from festivals and concerts in the summer to amazing holiday decorations in the winter. You can also check out the newly remodeled Country Club Plaza, which has designer stores and interesting restaurants, or go to Loose Park, which is just south of Westport, and walk through the beautiful gardens there.
There are many things to see and do in Kansas City, and this guide can help you discover them all. Whether you’re looking for unique attractions such as LEGOLAND or historic architecture such as the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, this guide has everything you need to know. So, pack your bags and set out on your historic journey in an organized way now!
1. Is Kansas City, MO, worth visiting?
Yes! Kansas City, MO, is a great place to visit. There are lots of things to do and see in the city, from its vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene to its many cultural attractions and historical sites.
2. What is the number 1 attraction in Kansas?
The number one attraction in Kansas is The National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial. It is the only accredited museum in Kansas dedicated to this era of history. The museum contains collections of artifacts and media related to the First World War, telling the stories of all those who lived through and fought in the conflict.
3. What are the best outdoor activities in Kansas City?
Some of the best outdoor activities in Kansas City include riverboat and architecture tours, golfing, visiting the many parks and trails, and exploring local nature reserves and historical sites. Kansas City is also home to numerous outdoor music festivals, including Jazz in the Woods, Crossroads Music Festival, and Boulevardia.
4. What time zone is Kansas in?
Kansas is in the Central Time Zone, which is 6 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). In the Summer months, the Central Time Zone is set to Daylight Savings Time (DST), moving an additional hour behind UTC and making it 5 hours behind UTC.
5. Does Kansas have pro-sports teams?
Yes, Kansas has several professional sports teams. The state is home to Major League Soccer team Sporting Kansas City and the National Basketball Association team Kansas City Kings. The Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League also play nearby in Missouri.
Author’s Bio: Erik is a content writer by profession and a singer by passion. Started out as a teacher at a preschool after completing his Master’s in English. An admitted sports fanatic, he grazes her addiction to soccer by watching matches on weekends. He is passionate about writing and loves to help people learn new things.
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.”
Scripps study shows that some patients may be able to taper their dose and maintain results
While glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agents have been used to treat Type 2 diabetes for more than 20 years, their recent emergence as weight-loss wonder drugs marked a new frontier in medicine. But their effectiveness has left some patients wondering what to do once they’ve reached their goal. Stopping the medication could mean regaining some, if not all, of the weight. A Scripps Clinic internal medicine physician recently conducted a small study of whether GLP-1 patients who had reached their goal weight could maintain that weight by taking their regularly prescribed injection every other week instead of weekly. Spoiler alert: 30 of 34 patients did. Read more about the study here and what that may mean as pharmaceutical companies roll out oral GLP-1s.
For more nutrition, wellness, and healthy living tips, sign up for the San Diego Health newsletter here.
San Diego Magazine's 2026 Guide to Balboa Park.
Balboa Park is San Diego’s cultural heart.
The iconic 1,200-acre preserve’s history dates back more than 150 years, evolving from a scrub-filled plot atop a mesa overlooking what’s now Downtown to an urban oasis—the largest of its kind in the country—filled with an array of museums, attractions, gardens, trails, restaurants, and more. Balboa Park is an epic playground where San Diegans and visitors alike can experience the great outdoors just as easily as they can enjoy a world-class performance or explore groundbreaking discoveries.
Tucked away in the Spanish Colonial Revival-style architecture are 18 diverse museums that allow visitors to spend the day learning about, well, anything. A great place to start is the San Diego History Center. Located in the Casa del Balboa building, the museum tells the story of the city’s past, present, and future through photographs and art, clothing and textiles, and interviews with people who witnessed history-making events firsthand. The San Diego Natural History Museum takes visitors even farther back with interactive exhibitions that show what the region was like up to 75 million years ago.
Blast off on a simulated trip to space at the San Diego Air & Space Museum, then check out artifacts from aviation legends, including the Wright brothers, Amelia Earhart, and Buzz Aldrin. Discover new perspectives revolutionizing the science world, learn about an often overlooked but overutilized utility, and exercise your creativity at the Fleet Science Center.
Calling all theater-lovers, Balboa Park has something for you, too. The San Diego Junior Theatre will present their musical take on beloved children’s book A Bad Case of the Stripes from June 26 through July 12. And laugh, cry, and marvel in awe as the pros of The Old Globe perform Kim’s Convenience, the award-winning comedy that inspired the popular series, from May 15 to June 14.
There’s nowhere else in Balboa Park quite like WorldBeat Cultural Center. The institution celebrates African diaspora and indigenous cultures around the world using art, music, dance, and education. The building, a renovated water tower covered in colorful murals, houses a performing arts center, museum, gift shop, cafe, and outdoor classroom.
If you’d like a side of nature with your culture, Balboa Park has you covered there, too. Stroll through the gardens of the Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum, a monument to the relationship between San Diego and its sister city, Yokohama, Japan. Inspired by traditional Japanese design dating back centuries, the 10-acre respite features a living exhibition that showcases plants native to both cities.
If there seems like a lot going on in Balboa Park, it’s because there is. Let the Balboa Park Cultural Partnership be your guide. The organization is the umbrella for 24 of the park’s institutions and offers an Explorer Pass that allows visitors to access multiple museums for one affordable price. The hardest part is picking where to start.
Save on admission to San Diego’s top museums with the Balboa Park Explorer Pass. Explore 16 museums of art, science, history and culture across Balboa Park — all with one affordable pass. Choose the option that fits your pace: the Limited Pass (one day for up to four museums), the Parkwide Pass (seven consecutive days of access to all 16 museums) or the Annual Pass (365 days of unlimited exploring).
Looking for an experience-driven gift? Let the museum lover in your life enjoy their favorite museums all year with a Balboa Park Explorer Annual Pass gift voucher.
BuyMyExplorer.com | Phone: 619-232-7502, Press 2 for Explorer
Bigger experiments, brighter ideas, and boundless curiosity await at the newly reimagined Fleet Science Center. This summer, the Fleet debuts Element 8 Cafe, an expanded theater queuing and concessions space, two new gallery spaces, and, for the first time, a free entrance gallery exploring science in and around San Diego. The transformation marks a new chapter for the Fleet, keeping it a vital, innovative, and accessible science hub for the region. Visitors are invited to explore the experience this summer and connect with the power of science like never before.
Address: 1875 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: FleetScience.org
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
Phone: 619-238-1233
An accredited cultural gem, the Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum brings traditional Japanese garden design to life with koi ponds, curving walkways and layers of greenery. Guests explore bonsai trees, streams and peaceful nooks while taking part in exhibits, educational programs and festivals that illuminate Japanese culture. Situated in the heart of Balboa Park, the garden doubles as a meditative retreat and a dynamic gathering place, welcoming visitors to slow their pace and connect more deeply.
Address: 2215 Pan American Road E, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: Niwa.org
Hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily; last admission at 6 p.m.
Phone: 619-232-2721
A San Diego summer favorite, The Old Globe invites audiences to experience a beloved local tradition in its outdoor Lowell Davies Festival Theatre.
This summer, the 2026 Shakespeare Festival presents two thrilling tales of power, passion and romance. Measure for Measure, running June 14 through July 12, 2026, is a riveting story of justice and hypocrisy that asks who holds power, who is punished and what it truly means to be virtuous. Much Ado About Nothing, playing Aug. 2–30, 2026, is a classic rom-com packed with schemes, sparks and laughter as opposites attract. Audiences can enjoy both shows for $44.
Address: 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: TheOldGlobe.org
Hours: Box office open Tuesday–Sunday, 1 p.m. to final curtain
Phone: Box office, 619-234-5623
Aviation and space exploration come to life at the San Diego Air & Space Museum. See an airworthy replica of the Spirit of St. Louis, a Gee Bee racer and historic aircraft from World War I, World War II and the Korean and Vietnam eras. Get up close to the Apollo 9 command module — one of only 11 of its kind in the world — along with Mercury and Gemini capsules, Mission Control and space shuttle simulators, and a selfie spot beside a lunar lander on the moon. Running through 2026, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! brings oddities from around the world to Balboa Park.
Address: 2001 Pan American Plaza, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: SanDiegoAirAndSpace.org
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Phone: 619-234-8291
History belongs to everyone. At the San Diego History Center, two experiences bring that history to life this summer: America at 250 and the Center for Women’s History. America at 250 traces San Diego’s place in 250 years of U.S. history, while summer programs invite children to learn and explore. The Center for Women’s History amplifies the voices of women whose leadership and creativity have shaped our region.
By understanding our past, we build a more vibrant and inclusive community together. These vital educational experiences are only possible through generous community support. Discover your roots, spark meaningful dialogue, and help keep San Diego’s stories alive for future generations.
Address: 1649 El Prado, Suite 3, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: SanDiegoHistory.org
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday–Sunday
Phone: 619-232-6203
Junior Theatre is San Diego’s longest-running youth theatre program, empowering students ages 4 to 18 to explore storytelling, performance, and collaboration in a supportive environment. Through classes, camps, and productions, young artists build confidence, creativity, and lifelong skills onstage and off. Each season features a wide range of opportunities, from introductory experiences to advanced training in acting and musical theatre.
Looking for a summer adventure? Junior Theatre’s Summer Camps deliver dynamic programs for grades K–12, including musical theater intensives, acting academies and immersive JT Studio experiences. It’s a place where imagination truly takes center stage.
Address: 1650 El Prado, Suite 208, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: JuniorTheatre.com
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Phone: 619-239-1311
This summer, The Nat is talking trash—literally. Their newest exhibition, Washed Ashore: Art to Save the Sea, features larger‑than‑life marine sculptures made of ocean debris collected from beaches. It invites visitors to explore the impact of plastic pollution and discover ways to take action.
But the experience doesn’t stop at the gallery doors. Friday nights, the exhibition transforms into an ocean-themed “dive bar” during Nat at Night. Select Sundays bring something brand new: a rooftop brunch with sweeping Balboa Park views. Add two new giant-screen films and five floors of nature to explore, and The Nat is shaping up to be one of the season’s must-visit destinations.
Address: 1788 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: SDNat.org
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays in summer
Phone: 619-232-3821
The WorldBeat Cultural Center is a nonprofit multidisciplinary cultural organization dedicated to promoting, presenting and preserving Indigenous cultures worldwide through music, art, dance, education, sustainability and community programs. WorldBeat elevates multicultural artists, expands opportunities for cultural enrichment and fosters deeper understanding across traditions. WorldBeat offers a holistic cultural experience that inspires pride, unity, connection and belonging for all ages.
Address: 2100 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 92101
Website: WorldBeatCenter.org
Hours: Classes: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, 6–9 p.m. Exhibits and café: Friday–Sunday, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
Phone: 619-230-1190
Step into a world of the weird and wonderful at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! at the San Diego Air & Space Museum in Balboa Park. Explore hundreds of bizarre artifacts, interactive displays and unbelievable stories that celebrate the curious and the extraordinary.
San Diego Air & Space Museum | 2001 Pan American Plaza, San Diego, CA 92101
Presented in partnership with the San Diego Museum of African American Fine Arts, San Diego’s Lost Neighborhoods uses augmented reality, oral histories, and archival materials to explore communities and residents displaced by redlining, freeway construction, and other discriminatory policies.
San Diego History Center | 1649 El Prado, Suite 3, San Diego, CA 92101
Spend a summer night at The Old Globe. The Lowell Davies Festival Theatre stages Measure for Measure (June 14–July 12) and Much Ado About Nothing (Aug. 2–30), offering two unforgettable Shakespeare productions for just $44.
The Old Globe | 1363 Old Globe Way,
San Diego, CA 92101
Summer camps at Junior Theatre spark creativity for grades K–12 with hands-on training, musical theatre intensives, acting academies, and JT Studio experiences.
San Diego Junior Theatre | 1650 El Prado, Suite 208, San Diego, CA 92101
A museum visit turns into a Sunday Funday with the addition of rooftop brunch, featuring mimosas, bloody Marys, and brunch bites from Wolfish by Wolf in the Woods (June 14, August 9) and Hash House a Go Go (July 12).
San Diego Natural History Museum (The Nat)
1788 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
Celebrate Juneteenth weekend with guided birding, storytelling, soul food, native planting and an African peace drum circle.
WorldBeat Cultural Center | 2100 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 92101
Nagashi at the Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum by floating a lantern to honor loved ones who have passed. Stroll merchant booths, enjoy cultural performances in the Inamori Pavilion, and sample food vendors plus a beer and sake garden in the lower garden.
Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum | 1649 El Prado, Suite 3, San Diego, CA 92101
Explore arts, science, history, and culture in the Balboa Park Cultural District with one convenient, affordable Pass. The Balboa Park Explorer Pass is your ticket to up to 16 museums and endless fun! Purchase your pass at BuyMyExplorer.com.
Chefs, restaurateurs, sommeliers, and craft mixers - meet our 2026 Tastemakers, the minds behind the magic.
La Gran Terraza, the University of San Diego’s signature restaurant, has been a campus favorite for over 16 years, offering California cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. This summer, its gastropub, O’Toole’s, is open for evening service —perfect for sunset bites and drinks.
At the helm is chef Marbi Becerra, a Culinary Institute of America alum with roots in the US and Mexico. She now leads culinary operations for La Gran Terraza and USD Catering, bringing bold Mediterranean flavors and a fresh perspective.
Seared Scallops: With charred broccolini oyster mushrooms corn puree herb cherry tomatoes and chimichurri
5998 Alcala Park, San Diego, California 92110
619-849-8205 | lagranterraza.com | @eatatusd
Chefs, restaurateurs, sommeliers, and craft mixers - meet our 2026 Tastemakers, the minds behind the magic.
Labora Café offers so much more than premium ceremonial-grade matcha; it’s a lifestyle café where people come to feel more energized, inspired, and connected to their community. Labora partners with retailers and lifestyle brands, from local Pilates instructors to Neiman Marcus, so there’s always something new to learn about or browse when you’re here. As for the drinks, whether you’re thinking matcha or Vietnamese coffee with a specialty house-made foam on top, expect a natural pick-me-up, without extra sugars or syrups.
Pistachio 54: Pistachio foam layered with a slow drip Viet coffee or Matcha
8055 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, Suite 101, San Diego, California 92111
858-471-6970 | laboracafe.com | @laborasd
Chefs, restaurateurs, sommeliers, and craft mixers - meet our 2026 Tastemakers, the minds behind the magic.
Happy Medium lives in the sweet spot: not too fancy, not too gritty. Think dive bar soul with cocktail bar standards. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a beer and a shot, a fancy cocktail, plus a killer spirits list. The menu includes all the best bar classics along with elevated plates. Some would call it a “happy medium.” With your favorite B-side tracks always playing in the background, Happy Medium is the ultimate neighborhood hangout spot.
Lava Flowgroni: Pineapple gin layered with strawberry Campari, banana vermouth and coconut, served over crushed party ice.
4002 30th Street, San Diego, California 92104
619-310-5642 | happymediumsd.com
