There’s a lot about San Diego that makes it one of the greatest cities in the United States. From it’s beautiful weather and beaches to the rich cultural diversity, there’s something for everyone here. If you’re trying to avoid getting a sunburn or tired after a long day of museum hopping, do yourself a favor and explore the city’s vibrant gastronomy scene.
Pisco Rotisserie & Cevichería – For the 6th year in a row, the World Travel Awards named Peru the World’s Leading Culinary Destination. For those of us who don’t have any vacation days left for a Peruvian excursion, taking a trip down to Liberty Station to visit the neighborhood’s newest restaurant will help us get our ceviche fix. The menu, designed by executive chef Emmanuel Piqueras, places emphasis on traditional ingredients and preparation with a modern, culturally-infused twist. For a truly authentic experience, try the national favorites ceviche, pollo a la brasa, or arroz con pollo accompanied by a tangy Pisco Sour.
Eddie V’s – One of the things that makes this city so wonderful is that it’s located along the Pacific Coast, making it one of the country’s top seafood destinations. The atmosphere at this Seaport District restaurant is unmatched, with a sophisticated dining experience and frequent live jazz performances, all while enjoying the freshest seafood enhanced by the fresh salty sea air.
Bertrand At Mister A’s – If you’re looking to dine in style with a fantastic view of downtown San Diego, this place is an absolute must. The critically acclaimed rooftop restaurant located at Fifth Avenue & Laurel is one of the best places to get brunch, have a few cocktails with friends, or watch the sunset over the skyline. Try the Traditional Seafood Paella or the Gorgonzola Crusted Prime Beef Fillet paired with their Blood Orange and Blackcurrant Sangria.
The Kettle Room – You’ll find this restaurant nestled inside Ballast Point Brewing Company’s Little Italy location, where they’ve created an intimate and eclectic dining experience that pairs cuisine and expertly crafted beer. This place is reservation only, and features a chef’s whim, prix-fixe menu at $55 per person, ensuring you have a unique and innovative dining and drinking experience.
El Agave – San Diego is just a stone’s throw away from the Mexican border, making it one of the best places in the country for authentic Mexican cuisine. Located in the historic Old Town, this restaurant features the largest collection of Tequila in the United States and features it’s own house brand Tequila Agave Artesanal. Try the Quesadillas del Pueblo or Chalupas de Langosta and try to narrow down your choice of tequila.
iDessert – Still hungry? Located in Little Italy, this new dessert joint allows you to get creative and actually design your own sundae, crepe, or milkshake with house made gelatos, sorbets, and cakes. Submit your design at the iPad station and feel like you’re truly living in the future when an employee hands you your custom dessert, complete with dry ice smoke, a few minutes later. Don’t forget to snap a picture for your Instagram feed like a true millennial.
While these aren’t the only restaurants you can try out in the vast city of San Diego, these are a great place to start if you’re looking for a unique dining experience in the sunny seaside city. Cheers!