Top Rated Restaurants & Cafes in San Diego

Run by a married couple, The Coffee Drop feels like a warm hug on a summer day. Dedicated to the neighborhood, this quaint coffee shop has all your cravings covered, and you definitely need to try its classic OBSL (Orange Brown Sugar Latte). The interiors exude a fresh feel with pops of bright colors, making the ambiance lively. You can also choose to sit on the outdoor patio and soak in the fresh air as you sip on your delicious brews. Come by with your loved ones and take a break from your routine.

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