Eat and drink your way through a town with multiple food scenes, from Italian to Mexican, and everything in between. If you’re a local or just exploring, this beach town offers authentic and trendy culinary experiences. Whether you end up in Downtown or in Little Italy, this list gives you access to tons of restaurants walking distance from the beach.
Gaslamp Quarter (Downtown)
La Puerta: Here for the atmosphere, impressive playlist and wet carne asada burritos. It’s pretty simple, compadres, La Puerta is a prime spot for some basic yet deliciosa mexicana flavors. Did I mention the decor is off the wall? No, really, the walls are covered in famous mug shots featuring faces like Eminem, Justin Bieber, Marilyn Manson and Snoop Dogg to name a few. Pro-tip: make your visit between the hours of 3-7 PM for ½ off all drinks. #happyhour
Tin Roof: Bar hopping in Downtown San Diego led me to this live music joint. If loosening up at a bar or jamming out to live bands interests you, add this unique spot. I can’t comment on the food because I didn’t try it, but the venue is large and can fill up pretty quickly. Before 10 PM there isn’t a cover charge, after expect to pay $5 to $10.
Little Italy
Landini’s Pizzeria: A whole-in-the-wall in the heart of Little Italy. If you’re on the go and need a quick bite, this pizzeria makes it easy. Order a few freshly made slices and carry on. If you have some time to kill, order a pie and enjoy yourself in the back terrace.
Civico 1845: This authentic restaurant brings you nothing but heavy Italian accents with a side of tasty, fresh and natural flavors. Founded by two Italian brothers, Civico 1845 was voted as one of the top 50 vegan restaurants in the U.S. Grab a seat while you enjoy their complimentary bread and pesto, and take a look at the menu. The two dishes I tried were both impressive. First, the Casareccia Alla Calabrese which consists of ricotta infused pasta mixed with homemade fennel sausage, wild mushrooms, n’duja (spicy spreadable pork), bell peppers tossed in a parmigiano sauce. The second must try dish is the Risotto Ai Funghi AKA cannaroli rice, wild mushrooms and parmigiano reggiano (feel free to add scallops, you won’t regret it).
Bencotto Italian Kitchen: Greeted with bread, olive oil and vinegar, you’re here especially for the MYOP, better known as Make Your Own Pasta. Oh the pasta-bilities! Go wild with the list of different pastas and sauces. I chose two — the tagliatelle + cheese sauce, and pappardelle + pesto. Mwah! Be sure to make reservations, but if they’re booked, check out their sister restaurant next door, Monello.
Kettner Exchange: Looking for a rooftop lounge with views of the bay in the Little Italy neighborhood? Pop into Kettner Exchange and seat yourself for the ultimate brunch vibe. You can’t go wrong with a DJ spinning live music, tasty eats and hand crafted cocktails. If you enjoy this location, which I don’t see why you wouldn’t, wait until you try Firehouse in Pacific Beach, same owners!
Salt & Straw: This is on my list, because I am bias and love this place. Brace yourself, because you can sample every deliciously interesting flavor at this little ice-cream shop. Their eccentric flavors range from honey lavender to roasted coconut strawberry. The line to get in might be a bit lengthy, but it’s worth your while.
Coronado Island
Peohe’s: Right across the San Diego bay, a bridge connects the cozy city of Coronado with San Diego. Enjoy an afternoon on this waterfront restaurant with fresh and savory flavors, like their crab stack or fried coconut jumbo shrimp. I recommend traveling here with your own vehicle. Ubering here might be easy, but coming back is the tricky part, since this suburb can be quiet and a little secluded.
Pacific Beach ‘“PB”
Firehouse: Another rooftop gem presented by the same owners as Kettner Exchange mentioned above. With Instagram friendly backdrops, occasional live music, and tasty bites. Firehouse’s trendy ambiance checks off all the boxes for a good time.
La Jolla
Cody’s La Jolla: Here for their awesome french toast and amazing chilaquiles. To be honest, I would have licked both my plates if that was socially acceptable. This cute brunch spot does not disappoint with some views of the shore as well as a fireplace to keep you toasty. Conveniently, Cody’s location is walking distance from local shops and the beach in Downtown La Jolla.
This list is ideal if you’re spending a few days in the second largest city of California. I hope that you too will experience these destinations on your next trip to San Diego, California. If you have any additional stops and recommendations, share them with us. Until then, bon voyage!
Check out the behind the scenes of all my adventures and meals on both my Instagram and highlights: @shabbysmalls & @shotbysmalls.
Currently listening to: Bob Marley & The Wailers – Legend (Deluxe)
