An ever evolving list of some of our favorite spots in San Diego.
Golden Hill / South Park:
Dark Horse Coffee (811 25th St) Some of the best coffee in San Diego - they have four locations but this one is our favorite, and closest to the studio. Their outdoor patio is great for kids, and warm days.
The Rose Wine Bar (2219 30th St) Lovely natural wines by the glass or bottle. Stop by this spot on the weekend and brunch with the locals.
The Book Catapult (3010 Juniper St) Well curated independent bookstore in the heart of the charming South Park neighborhood.
Mutual Friend (3004 Juniper St)
East Village:
Lola 55 (1290 F St) Beautiful setting with a really creative menu, Lola is at the top of our list for tacos in town. Affordable and friendly.
Petco Park (100 Park Blvd) If you're here during baseball season, we'd highly recommend trying to see a game at Petco Park. Sit in the "Park at the Park" (a big green space past the outfield) and enjoy a pint.
Central Library (330 Park Blvd) Grand, modern space, designed by local architect Rob Quigley. Take the elevator up to the top floor to see the rooftop terrace and reading room.
Little Italy:
Bottlecraft (2252 India St) One of the best bottle shops in town, with an impressive tap list. There are a few locations around town (this is our favorite)
Mikkeller Tap Room (2021 India St) This Danish brewer has made a home in San Diego, and this cozy tap room is at the top of our date night list.
Vino Carta (2161 India St) Quiet, beautifully minimal space for wine by the glass or bottle.
Home Ec Store (2355 India Street) One of the best new shops in San Diego, with the best owner.
Waterfront Park (1600 Pacific Hwy) A lovely place to walk, picnic, or people watch.
Little Italy Mercato (Date St) The best farmer's market in San Diego - awesome vendors, festive atmosphere.
Bankers Hill / Balboa Park:
Mingei International Museum (1439 El Prado)
Prager Brothers (1252 University Ave)
Zoo (2920 Zoo Dr) The zoo is a San Diego must. It's a truly wonderful place to spend the day. Don't miss the suspended gondola ride for beautiful views of the park and skyline.
Seven Bridge Walk One of our favorite walks, this urban hike will take you through Balboa Park and some of San Diego's most charming neighborhoods.
Heartwork Coffee (3993 Goldfinch St) A cozy spot for coffee in Mission Hills. Grab a coffee and walk around the historic neighborhood north of Washington Street.
North Park:
Shop Good (3030 North Park Way) One of the best resources for clean beauty and wellness products in the city. Friendly, knowledgable staff.
Tribute Pizza (3077 North Park Way) Housed in the old North Park post office building. The BEST pizza, and we love their seasonal salads. Don't miss the house made sea salt focaccia with balsamic and olive oil.
Fall Brewing (4542 30th St) San Diego boasts a lot of craft beer, but this is some of the best. Visit their brewery on 30th Street for a truly local experience.
University / Normal Heights:
Hawthorn (3019 Adams Ave) Friendly neighborhood coffee shop with a delicious toast menu. We're big fans of their creative seasonal espresso drinks.
Clos Wine Shop (4521 Park Blvd)
Tajima (3015 Adams Ave) We love ramen, and Tajima is our favorite place to get our fix. Don't miss the spicy sesame ramen.
Point Loma/Ocean Beach:
Sunset Cliffs A really beautiful walk along the cliffs in Point Loma
Cabrillo National Monument Scenic views of the city, native plants, tidepools and some lovely hiking.
Little Lion (1424 Sunset Cliffs Blvd) Tiny, eclectic cafe a block from the beach. Go for brunch and then walk along the cliffs.
Paru Tea Bar (3034 Cañon St) The sweetest local tea shop, full of beautiful teas and tea related gifts. We love the philosophy behind this shop and the lovely owners.
Liberty Station The historic naval training center has been reimagined as a food, art, and culture destination. Catch a movie at The Lot.
North:
Viewpoint Brewing (2201 San Dieguito Dr) Family-owned brewery with an impressive menu in one of the most scenic locations in San Diego.
Torrey Pines State Beach Beautiful beach and cliffs with a network of hiking trails. Bonus: coffee van Plus Six One, which is often parked on Coast Highway.
Campfire (2725 State St) One of our very favorite places for dinner. Amazing, chef-driven menu and the cocktails are some of the best in San Diego. A true dining experience.
Wayfarer Bread (5525 La Jolla Blvd) The loveliest bakery in charming Bird Rock. Try their breakfast sandwich and cinnamon roll.
Steady State Roasting 2562 State St
Ironsmith Coffee