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.
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.
As the name Dumpling Inn suggests, dumplings are the specialty at this small Chinese eatery nestled in the lair of Asian restaurants that is Convoy Street. Choose from a variety of pork, seafood or vegetarian dumplings, all homemade. The menu also offers noodles, rice, and a small selection of stir-fry dishes. If you need to cater for a party, the restaurant also sells uncooked dumplings by the dozen though advanced order is required.
In Downtown San Diego, this fine dining establishment is not only well known for premium cuisine, but also for an expansive wine list. In fact, it has been praised for hosting "one of the most outstanding wine lists in the world." While many San Diego restaurants allow for casual dress, this particular establishment requests more formal attire. Men should wear long-sleeved dress shirts and all guests are asked not to wear shorts. Popular entrees include linguini with clam sauce and veal piccata. Enjoy cocktails from the outdoor patio as the sun sets and gives way to the city lights below. Whether you're dining or drinking, Bertrand at Mister A's is a magical venue for a memorable evening.
You may not see this restaurant's name plastered on many La Jolla tour guides, but this cozy spot is a favorite among long-time La Jolla residents. In fact, the restaurant is one of those well-kept secrets that locals have known about for years, but tour guides have yet to discover. This adorable restaurant hosts outdoor patio dining, as well as indoor seating by the fireplace. Try the Filet Mignon, served with Prosciutto potatoes and leek fondue. Northern Halibut is another customer favorite, complete with potato croquettes and herb salad. Wine is available by the glass or bottle.
Mustangs and Burros at Estancia La Jolla is a beautiful restaurant designed in the Territorial Ranch way. The restaurant has a warm and inviting dining room with low lighting, casual seating, a large brick fireplace and a wonderful patio similar to a Spanish hacienda for a wonderful romantic night dinner with a fireplace. The menu is packed with enticing small bites infused by the Southwest and the seasons. The full bar has some amazing house crafted cocktails and creative margaritas with great happy hour offers during the weekends. All the ingredients are fresh, local and seasonal, and are used in the menu in the most creative way. If you are craving for beautiful flavors and awesome dining experience, then M & B is the place to be in.
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.
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
You'll find hungry locals queuing up outside this small eatery almost any time of the day. Established in 1933 and still going strong, Las Cuatro Milpas is one of the city's hidden gems for foodies. The secret is quite simple, a small choice of Mexican favorites made to perfection and offered at prices that won't break the bank. The menu offers a choice of familiar favorites from tacos and burritos to tamales and chorizo. There's no table service; grab your food from the ever-busy counter and hope to find a seat in the dining area. Take out is available as well. Call ahead for more.
Opened in 2006, Bird Rock Coffee Roasters is the brainchild of Chuck Patton. This acclaimed coffeehouse roasts only the finest of green beans from sustainable farms from all over the globe. This direct trade cafe is where you can enjoy a great cuppa of pure delight. Take a sip of a decaf, Viennese, mocha and latte. You can also buy coffee paraphernalia from the cafe.