"Must Try" Restaurants San Diego

Neighborhood is a downtown beer and burger bar that has an eclectic North Park-esque personality. There are only two things that make this establishment “Downtown:" location, and the fact that they don’t serve ketchup. It’s called Neighborhood for a reason… It feels like all of the East Village hipster hang there! Note:you MUST experience a beer tasting (best selection of beers) and a plate of their unbelievable sweet potato fries. If you go with friends or on a date- plan an after meal surprise! That keg stack next to the bathrooms... let's just say it's a doorway to a best kept whiskey secret in town.

It's always Summer in San Diego at Tower 23! A chic hotel located on the waterfront in Pacific Beach, Tower 23 feels more like a downtown hot spot than a place for visitors to rest their head. Their restaurant, JRDN, is one of the few places to socialize near the sand. With fresh california cuisine and an even fresher view, JRDN is a great pick for fun with friends on the weekend!

Anyone who flies into our fine city knows that Mr. A's is the shining beacon on top of Banker's Hill, but did you know that if you reach the summit you'll find a new star? Barrio Star, an Isabel Cruz creation (she also has Cantina in PB and The Coffee Cup in La Jolla), is a mix of The Mission (Formerly of Isabel Cruz), Mexican Food and a neighborhood bar. Its small space is cozied by chandeliers and comfy booths, but it maintains a stylish sophistication for a south of the border bistro. This place is great for a romantic date or a get together with friends (ask for the large table)!

If L'Auberge is the diamond of Del Mar... then its restaurant, Kitchen 1540, is pure gold! It has a relaxed resort feel with all of the fabulosity of a five star restaurant. There are several dining options- the main dining area with vaulted ceilings and an open kitchen, the outdoor patio with cabanas and the ocean view terrace. You can have a completely different experience each time you dine here. They pride themselves on their farm-to-plate freshness which is complimented by their comfortable yet contemporary decor.

Blend one part country cooking and one part character... combine organic local ingredients and top notch service... sprinkle in a sophisticated social scene... and VOILA! You've got Whisknladle and all its flavor! While we are lucky enough to call this place a neighborhood bistro, Whisknladle is on the national radar. Check out the long list of awards they've won when you walk through the front door.

Find comfort food for the soul at Urban Solace! This Louisianna-like bistro with French Quarter-esque fabulosity is a great place to escape the grind and enjoy the sweet life. Their creative takes on menu items such as Mac n' Cheese and dumplings will have you impressed... and satisfied. Don't forget to try their Bluegrass Brunch on Sunday!

Walking into Cucina Urbana is like walking into a sprightly Tuscan town! This Italian-fusion restaurant has a country chic landscape, an affordable wine library, and a bustling bar... a great place for entertaining. If you go with a group make sure to ask for the large table in the back. Also, this restaurant is within walking distance to Balboa Park. 

The Red Door is a very romantic restaurant tucked away in Mission Hills... which happens to be the perfect location. It has the urban edge of its South Mission Hills' neighbors with all of the class and sophistication of those North Mission Hills' Mansions. Their food is described as "American Comfort Classics." This is a great place for making a good first impression! 

Anthology is one of a kind for San Diego! It's a sophisticated entertainment venue with a classy bar scene and classic cuisine- think jazz club but with an array of acts... comedy, music, special events, and even big name acts. This is the perfect destination for a special occasion. Make sure to read the John Lennon “Imagine” lyrics as you walk out the door… it will remind you of what is important in life.

When you go to Starlite you feel as if you’ve gone back in time to a sexy, retro lounge where intellectual conversation fills the room as hipsters sip on trendy cocktails.  The doorway itself is a virtual porthole back to the 70’s.  I would recommend sitting at the sunken bar downstairs and ordering their signature “Starlite Mule” cocktail in a copper mug… or heading upstairs to their patio under the stars!

Farm House Cafe is an adorable restaurant with "rustic country French cuisine." The atmosphers is cozy and the food is comfy... but don't let the "farm" or "cafe" part fool you- This restaurant is elegant and a great date place for those looking for an intimate setting.

The romance of the pretty parisian bistro, Café Chloe, demands a love story. A suggestion for those who are married- arrive at Café Chloe at separate times. Then sit on opposite sides of their white marble wine bar. After several brief moments of eye contact, the guy should approach the girl with a predetermined conversation starter. Pretend like you don't know each other- and reaquaint yourselves over a fabulous French dinner... It's a food affair without the consequences!!

Red Pearl Kitchen is Asian-fusion with the ambiance of a sexy red hot nightclub... without the loud music, large crowds, and annoying cover charge. It truly is an excellent way to go out downtown without "going out." This is a great place for an intimate romantic date night or for a dinner party with a large group of friends!

Alexander's is an enchanting Bistro bathed in Candlelight... It's the ABC's of romance! Situated on the popular "Restaurant Row," Alexander's stands out amongst its neighbors as a great Italian eatery- but somehow it has managed to keep its appeal as one of San Diego's best kept secrets. This is the perfect date place- everyone looks better behind the seductive haze of candlelight!

The best place to eat with a view is George's at the Cove. With a 180 degree view of the blue, this modern eatery offers a great way to flaunt our fabulous vistas to visitors in town... or to just enjoy an afternoon outdoors with your best friend. The fresh California cuisine is a nice compliment to the fresh ocean breeze! Enjoy their terrace bar if you are looking to just grab a drink.