I can’t believe an entire year has passed by almost as quickly as I eat a meal. I hope you shared some new foodie discoveries as you followed my journey in the San Diego food scene. My hunt for the best restaurants began two full years ago and somehow my list of eateries to check out continues to grow. When we left New York City in 2021 for the West Coast I was concerned that my dining experiences would never live up to the epic culinary scene in the Big Apple. Boy was I wrong. I continue to fall in love with San Diego each day and the excitement that comes with repeatedly stumbling upon fantastic restaurants plays a big role in my love for America’s finest city. I look forward to delving deeper into the plethora of options in our backyard and continuing to inspire you to try new places, jump into new experiences, and make new memories around food. I wish you all a very healthy and happy 2025 filled with many adventures, meals with family and friends, and making some of your own discoveries too!
SOT opened its doors four months ago to bring San Diegans the ancient method of Korean BBQ over a cast iron cauldron. This spot is perfect for those, like me, who love to taste many different dishes; we were beautifully hit with a deluge of tasty sides that came with the premium Wagyu sampler we ordered. You’ll have a blast lingering at your table, nibbling on all the delicious sides accompanying your meal, while your server grills your protein perfectly.
pros: you’ll have a great time, loads of sampling, really solid Korean food
cons: they surprisingly don’t have homemade hot sauce
must order: the wagyu boards and the cold spicy noodles
I don’t think there is any other restaurant in San Diego where I have dined more than Eddie V’s. This is one of my go-to favorites knowing I will always be served a perfectly prepared meal each time. The setting is elegant, the service is refined, and the kitchen always whips delicious steak and seafood dishes. Oh, and their cocktails are heavenly too.
pros: stunning ocean views, expansive outdoor rooftop, impeccable service, ability to consistently executive a positive dining experience
cons: parking nearby is difficult although valet parking is available
must order: smoked old-fashioned, yellowtail sashimi, truffled macaroni and cheese, any steak, and the kung pao calamari
The chic, masculine vibe sets the right ambiance for one of San Diego’s best steak houses. We enjoyed an early 6:00 pm dinner on a Monday evening and by the time we left the restaurant, it was bustling with diners. I especially loved the wagyu board served on a lazy susan making sharing fun and easy. You’re guaranteed great food and a great time here!
pros: great environment, professional staff, well-executed dishes
cons: the bathroom locks are tricky – look for the round button on the hardware and push it to lock
must order: the steak board and oysters
As soon as this Middle Eastern restaurant hit North Park it created a buzz. Very few places in San Diego make it as difficult to snatch a reservation as it is here. The space is visually stunning. The multi-leveled interior boasts authentic Middle Eastern decor, romantic lighting (making it very difficult to photograph), and even a large waterfall. The food is good, but not great yet you’ll have so much fun sharing the salads and grilled dishes in the gorgeous and lively space, ultimately making you feel better about the bill. No detail was left behind in creating a spectacular setting.
pros: breathtaking interior full of authentic middle eastern touches
cons: difficult to get reservations
must order: salmon skewer and tah dig
I love having this gem in my neighborhood and frequent it often for a healthy, yummy breakfast. The restaurant takes pride in serving locally sourced ingredients in a relaxed, coastal setting. For a guilt-free meal that will leave you well-satiated, look no further.
pros: kitchen uses only the freshest ingredients, healthy menu, large patio
must order: breakfast bowl with farro, arugula, oyster mushroom, fresno chili, hummus, crispy garlic chip, goat cheese, and topped with a fried egg
This month I tried two fun experiences that I have yet to try:
A Vegas-based concept lies in the heart of La Jolla Village offering a three-course meal followed by a magic show. The dining room is intimate, limited to thirty guests, and is beautifully decorated seasonally. Attendees can pre-select their seating at a communal table or at a few two-tops that line the walls. If you live in the area, it is something fun to check out once.
pros: dramatic entrance into an impressive dining room, they book well-regarded talent, interactive, fun
cons: the entire experience is 3 hours and could probably be trimmed
Nothing will get you into the holiday spirit more than roaring fireplaces and live piano playing in a room filled with well-dressed patrons dining amidst an ornately festive environment. Kicking off the holiday season at The Grand is definitely a good idea.
pros: elegant setting, flexible with dietary restrictions, staff takes pride in their knowledge of teas,
cons: the holiday high tea menu is $40 more per person than their usual high tea for the same amount of food
