Located on the brink of the San Diego shore, The Marine Room serves contemporary surf'n'turf cuisine in its stately dining hall, with enchanting views of the ocean to keep company. Along with its divinely crafted cuisine, this 1941 culinary stalwart boasts of a well-heeled clientele that includes several celebs and world figures. Award-winning Executive Chef Bernard Guillas along with his stellar team leads the kitchen, whipping up specialties such as the Skuna Bay Salmon, Angus Beef Filet Mignon and Cervena Elk Loin. The elegant confines of this establishment also include an elevated seating area that lets its guests enjoy the azure waves gently crashing against the window.
Sister restaurant to Humphrey's by the Bay in San Diego, the Grill offers fine food perched on top of the Sheraton La Jolla Hotel. Light, open Asian-flavored decor provides a cheerful background for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The signature Prixe Fixe meal offers dramatic dining for two, beginning with a bottle of Chardonnay or Merlot, proceeding with a soup or salad course, a selection from eight entrees and a shared dessert. Entree choices include Halibut Macadamia, Prime Rib, Filet Mignon or the "Taste of San Diego" shrimp.
The Shores Steak & Seafood restaurant combines classic steakhouse favorites and innovative coastal cuisine with spectacular oceanfront views. Their focus is on exceptional quality and fresh local ingredients. The restaurant's surf-side views and inviting atmosphere make for a dining experience you won't soon forget. The restaurant is located at the Sea Lodge Hotel on La Jolla Shores. Call or visit their website for menus and reservations.
The atmosphere at this popular restaurant and bar is best characterized as colorful. The bright yellow sign, along with a front door featuring yellow, blue and green prints, welcome guests into the restaurant. Once inside, guests will notice colorful tabletops as well as mural-covered walls. The small, busy restaurant offers juke box music and a big bar. Carne asada- grilled steak, tops the menu, including combination of tacos, tortas and burritos. The place also offers marinated steak with a cheese enchilada and guacamole. Jose's Court Room is the place for great craft cocktails and delectable eats done the authentic Mexican way.
This multiple award-winning restaurant is a true San Diego treasure. Located inside of the historic US Grant Hotel, Grant Grill exudes class and elegance. From it's waffle brunch buffets to its lavish dinner presentations, diners head here when they want something extraordinary. The opulent ambiance elevates the experience, lending an added sense of luxury to the already world-class cuisine. The adjoining lounge is perfect for those who want to sip a cocktail among San Diego's elite. Attire is dressy, so don your favorite suit or dress and take in your glamorous surroundings.
The crowd at Sushi Ota speak volumes about the quality of the fish and other Asian delicacies served here. Look for the Omakase Chef's Dinner Special, which changes daily but always provides good quality, quantity and value. In addition to the raw fish selections, you can also find sukiyaki, yakitori and other cooked entrees from the land of the rising sun. The service is pleasant and patient if you are a first-time sushi diner, always ready to make suggestions to assure a pleasant meal.
Bobboi Natural Gelato is well-known for using organic ingredients that offer a fresh and seasonal surprise. Uniquely flavored gelatos are made everyday at their premises using organic Californian milk, organic sugar and organically grown seasonal fruits to ensure freshness.
A simple restaurant, Nhu Y specializes in Vietnamese cuisine. There is seating available, but it is limited as the restaurant encourages take away and delivery. The menu is extensive and the dishes are delicious. You can start with egg rolls or shrimp and pork salad. In soups, try the hot and sour catfish soup. A good variety of rice and noodles dishes occupy the menu. Try the steamed rice vermicelli with BBQ pork, or the vegetarian chow mein served either soft or crispy. You can end your meal with hot or cold coffee, or a lemonade, juice, or fruit shake.
Your tour of San Diego is not quite complete without a visit to Mariposa Ice Cream, an award-winning ice cream shop with over 15 years of experience in churning out homemade creamy delights for eclectic patrons. Mariposa is a relatively small shop with limited seats but it's big on flavors. There are more than 15 regular flavors in addition to rotating favorites like Coconut Almond Fudge, Watermelon Sorbet, Pumpkin and the Black Cherry. Best enjoyed with a waffle cone, their double scoop feature comes most recommended for those with a sweet tooth. At USD5, this is a treat for your palate and your wallet.
Dining at Addison, named after its architect, provides the experience of a lifetime in taste and ambiance. Tastefully done bites wear tiny herbs and flowers or are perched atop dabs of sauces. The seasonal menu is complemented by an extensive selection of wines from around the world. Located at The Grand Del Mar resort destination, this is the only 3 Michelin-star restaurant in Southern California. It does not disappoint! The attentive service staff work like clockwork. You can meet up with the chef and observe the staff at work. Every dish is incredible. If you are seeking out a life-changing dining experience, go to Addison! The night starts with four champagnes from which to choose. The tableside Louie XIII is the icing on the cake. You could go in for a progression of cocktails instead of wine pairing if that’s your thing. The mixologist makes amazing signature drinks for you to enjoy throughout the meal. The food is delicious, and the food train is seemingly endless.
On the corner of State St. and West Cedar St. behind a tree, sits a small patio of tables and chairs. A flat screen television, which displays a video that describes various points of interest throughout Italy, takes guests to a world away from the San Diego traffic. Pappalecco offers a selection of thirty-six flavors of gelato, which guests can order in cups, as well as sugar or waffle cones. Pappalecco gets a little creative with their gelato: they serve "Coppe Gelato"—cups of gelato that consist of various flavors that will give guests an unforgettable taste of Italy. For those who prefer a cup of coffee, Pappalecco offers various gourmet coffees; and of course, for those who want to splurge, Pappalecco serves a wide selection of Panini, Bruschetta, and salads. - Erick Pettersen