San Diego favorites from a local!
As a San Diego native of 30 years, I have sooo many recommendations! I couldn't list everything so here are just a few places I highly reocmmend. Leave a comment if you need any other reocmmendations!
Map
Restaurants
Almost all of these are exclusively local to San Diego. Make sure to scroll through as there are so many different types of food!
Cutest little rooftop restaurant with even better food and drinks!
Featured on triple D, this burger spot is continuosly voted as one of San Diego's best burger!
Another restaurant featured on triple D. Highly recommend their wings! Limited parking and this place does get super packed!
One of my favorite italian spots! The owner Cesarina is from Italy and this restaurant has been a go-to for me! This place can get crowded and there is only street parking.
Known for their salt & pepper wings, locals cannot get enough of this place! From the fried rice to the egg drop soup, everything is done to perfection!
To all my cannabis enthusiats, this one is for you!
If you know, you know! Hands down one of the BEST and most authentic Mexican food restaurants. Fresh menudo blanco on Saturdays that always sells out. Cash only and there are super long lines most days. Street parking only
Bomb pizza and even better beer! This place doubles as a brewery.
Local steakhoue with great food, drinks and vibes.
Locals love this spot for their burgers! They're hands down one of the best!
Bomb Italian food!! Highly recommend if you're in Little Italy!
The best sandwiches and their secret sauce is the BOMB!!!
Another sandwich shop that serves bomb subs!
This local restaurant is the best for Dim Sum!
Their housemade sauces are super tasty and this is also a good spot to let your little ones get their energy out!
Fresh pasta, housemade sauce, great wine and even better apps. They also have their signuatrue cheese wheel pastas. This place is seriously the best and they have a sister restaurant right next door!
Locals love this place so much they saved the business on its last day from closing! The Rib tips are delicious, highly recommend!
Locals love this place! Their tacos are some of the best in the city. I recommend the adobada and the asada tacos!
Modern mexican food, they have the best drinks as well!
Beautiful harbor views plus yummy food and beer for every taste - this spot if family friendly AND delicious.
Brunch & Breakfast Spots
Breakfast republic has quickly turned into one of my favorite spots for a quick breakfast!
You just can't beat this view! Fresh food and sunlight is the best combo for the perfect brunch
Locals love this spot because it's right on the beach! There can be long lines on weekends and there is only street parking so plan accordingly!
Love this breakfast spot! There's a few locations so make sure to check this spot out!
This mom & pop breakfast spot is THE BEST! I grew up coming here. You can't beat the prices and they have good portions! Food is delicious and customer service is always on point!
Super cute spot and their baked french toast is the best! Be aware there are sometimes SUPER long wait times as this place is pretty popular.
Lobster sliders, fresh squeezed juice for your mimosa and a great atmosphere makes this place the perfect brunch spot!
Outdoor Activities
Places to see, hiking trails, historic landmarks, farmers markets and everything else in between!
“The Birthplace of California” or Old Town is a great place to visit. Over 40 shops and tons of restaurants. Almost all museums are free and there are so many historic landmarks to see! Free and paid parking
Seaport Village is a great spot to visit. Tons of restaurants, shops and things to do! Ocean views and you can even see the Coronado bridge from parts of Seaport Village! Paid parking.
1,200 acre park located right next to the San Diego Zoo. 18 museums, shops, restaurants, tours and a theater. You'll never be bored here!
Perfect Sunday activity! Tons of diverse, great food and many vendors to shop from!
Beautiful beach hike! Free and paid parking. Located in Northern San Diego. Easy to moderate trails with steep inclines. This park gets pretty packed depending on the day. Be sure to check for closures before you go!
Historic landsite for Native San Diegans. Sooo many trails and free parking! Easy to challenging trails. Strollers are ok on some trails
Potato chip rock is a famous and pretty challenging hike! The view is definitely worth it!
A San Diego historic landmark. A beautiful view with a nice walk and so much history to learn about! Perfect for families as well.
One of the best swap meets in San Diego and they're pet friendly! Bring your whole family for a day out
I recommend visiting their site since they always have events going on. From soccer games to food truck events, there's something for everyone!
I recommend visiting their site since they always have events. From baseball games to concerts, you'll always have something to do here!
Located in south San Diego, the Living Coast Discovery Center has so much to see, learn and discover!
Breweries & Bars
The vibes here are the best! This brewery is located in North County San Diego - Escondido!
This distillery serves the best (strong) drinks and some pretty good food. The menu isn't huge but it's pretty good! Free parking
Ballast Point has a few locations and they also have food!
This brewery does not have food, but allows you to bring your own. They have a lot of ciders to choose from and they are delicious. Family friendly and free parking!
Perfect place if you're looking for cheap food and drinks. You'll meet people from everywhere at this bar and you'll also have the best time!
This bar is definitely for those who like to party! I used to come here in my early 20's and have a great time. Drinks are on the cheaper side and this place gets super packed!
Love this place if you're looking for a fun taco tuesday or a night out!
This brewery has a few locations around San Diego so be sure to find the one that works the best for you!
Coffee Shops, Bakeries and Juice Bars
One of my favorite smoothie/health spots!
Small batch coffee local to SD with various locations. So many treats, coffees and teas to choose from!
Delicious coffee, I love this spot when I'm in the La Jolla area!
Cutest coffee spot in North Park! Highly recommend if you're in the area!