People Watching Restaurants

Whether you're looking for a romantic cafe, a place to treat your friends to, or an exquisite birthday cake for a family member, you won't be disappointed in Extraordinary Desserts. This 5th Avenue Bankers Hill bakery was opened by Pastry Chef Karen Krasne in 1988, and has been a local hit ever since. With mouthwatering, hand-crafted, organic and decadent cakes, pastries, danishes, cookies, and ice cream-- plus a full espresso bar to-boot-- Extraordinary Desserts is just the place to feed your sweet tooth. This cozy, quaint little cafe boasts an astonishing 400+ item menu, so every time you visit make … Learn More »

Taste of Thai in Hillcrest offers an extensive selection of authentic Thai cuisine that is light, fresh, and traditional. The menu includes Thai curries, noodle and rice dishes, and house specialties, often offered with a choice of chicken, pork, seafood, tofu, or vegetables. The seafood section of the menu is especially tempting, with dishes like Whole Fish in Curry sauce and Grilled Thai Prawns. While the menu is extensive, every dish is prepared well, proving that the kitchen is skilled in crafting intricate and harmonious presentations of taste and flavor. The simple décor imparts a subtle elegance, which serves as … Learn More »

Corvette Diner celebrates the joyous 1950’s, with a menu of hearty comfort food that satisfies the soul as well as the stomach. The burgers, sandwiches, entrees, and daily specials range from time-honored to wildly inventive, like the unusually delicious “Rory” Burger, a hamburger topped with peanut butter and bacon that actually boasts a money-back guarantee. Its new Liberty Station location enhances the fun-loving atmosphere with a full bar, three distinctive dining rooms, and the massive Gamer's Garage arcade, making it easy for diners young and old to embrace their inner-child. Learn More »

Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza & Grill is a far cry from your average run-of-the-mill pizza joint. This elegant yet comfortable gourmet restaurant introduces a whole new interpretation to the art of pizza-making, offering innovative menu items such as Brie and Truffle Pizza, Garlic Shrimp Pizza, and Organic Arugula and Pear Pizza. Sammy’s of Mission Valley is centrally located in close proximity to the I-15, I-805, and I-8 directly adjacent to the Mission Valley mall, allowing easy access to the perfect combination of shopping and dining. Don’t miss the Happy Hour specials from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. every day, when you … Learn More »

Las Olas, located beach side in the heart of Cardiff, has been serving up fresh, traditional Baja style Mexican food since 1981. While famous for creating “the original” fish taco, Las Olas has much more to offer, including healthy selections of seafood, traditional Mexican favorites, and new tantalizing dishes created by Executive Chef Ricardo Enriquez. With walls adorned with tropical plants and a dining room filled with vivid colors, your experience will mentally transport you to exciting Baja, Mexico. Whether it’s for a casual family gathering or a seaside dinner by sunset on the beachfront patio, Las Olas has something … Learn More »

Is this a movie set or restaurant? While dining at The Beach House in Cardiff, the shore is just inches from you. Dine on abundant seafood, steak or chops. The wine list is extensive, cocktails priced reasonably, and happy hour is every day. Diners of all ages fill this restaurant because the menu offers new twists on classics, contemporary flavors and fresh ingredients. Dine on dishes like Herb Roasted Half Chicken, Lobster Tail & Filet Mignon, Pacific Mahi Mahi, or Baby Back Ribs. They also feature small plates, a children's menu, home made desserts, and a weekend champagne brunch. But … Learn More »

Luc’s Bistro offers guests an authentic taste of down-home Southern cuisine. Try dishes like Crispy Crab Cakes with Avocado Cilantro, which take Southern flare and meld it with a California twist. Ongoing specials pop up daily to switch the mood for returning visitors while allowing newcomers to sample unique creations from Luc’s talented chefs. Cozy and casual, the “bistro-esque” dining room invites guests to dine with friends, family, or their significant other. Who says that a bistro has to serve only French cuisine? Luc’s Bistro shows patrons that a restaurant can create its own flare by taking different styles and … Learn More »

The Boathouse offers a waterfront setting on Harbor Island, overlooking the San Diego bay and marina. The menu offers quality steaks, seafood, and pasta dishes, with entrees such as Stuffed Salmon, Filet Mignon and Lobster duo, and Southwestern Chicken Pasta. Specialty cocktails, a weekday happy hour, and weekly specials are all reasons to keep returning to the Boathouse, as is the friendly service, comfortable atmosphere, and magnificent view. Their elegant yet cozy atmosphere is inviting for anyone, and with a menu and cocktail list as extensive as it is, any eater can feel welcome to dine with ease at the … Learn More »

BJ's Restaurant & Brew House serves a menu of American Classics alongside fresh, handcrafted beers in a casual, lively atmosphere. One of many BJ's locations nation-wide, the restaurant follows in the traditions of the first BJ's, which opened in 1978 as a Chicago Pizzaria in Santa Ana California. Their menu features options for pasta dishes, pizza, burgers, salads, soup, sandwiches, not to mention beer, wine, and cocktails. They even feature a gluten-free menu, curbside takeout, and online ordering options. As for their hand crafted beers, BJ's is known for their unique brews they serve in house, such as BJ's Brewhouse … Learn More »

Immerse yourself in the beautiful historic architecture of Point Loma and savor the fresh tastes of Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza & Grill inside Liberty Station. From hand-crafted pizza to farm fresh salads and extraordinary tapas selections, Sammy’s has everything you need to experience a satisfying meal in a comfortable, casual environment suitable for occasions of all kinds. Many come just for Happy Hour, when all tapas are half price between 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. every day. Others bring the family and order from tantalizing pizza choices like the Margherita with tomatoes, garlic and fresh basil, Prosciutto with artichoke, scallion, garlic … Learn More »

If you’re looking for a great night in San Diego, look no further than PB Bar & Grill. This venue reflects Pacific Beach’s laid back attitude and hosts a happy hour nightly. It is known as a favorite hangout among San Diego locals and mainly plays host to the college age crowd. PB Bar & Grill has a great selection of beer and cocktails to choose from in addition to their full bar. Their menu consists of typical bar fare and quick bites. It is part indoor restaurant, outdoor patio, and dance floor all of which combined with music results … Learn More »

Seaside P&G is about serving up fresh and exquisite flavors of traditional and modern Vietnamese dishes with a wide selection of craft beers and fine wines. Our vision is to infuse authentic recipes with modern cooking technique using fresh local and organic ingredients to create a dazzling balance of flavorful meals. Influenced by China, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and France, our cuisine is a fusion of the best flavors and ingredients from Southeast Asia and France. We invite you to come, relax with friends and colleagues over cold drinks, delicious hearty food, and comforting atmosphere. Our happy hour menu offers a … Learn More »

Buca di Beppo is neighborhood restaurant where guests feast on family platters of real Italian specialties in a boisterous, celebratory environment that recalls the Italian-American supper clubs of the 1940s and '50s. It's the marriage of Italy's oldest cuisines and the bounty of America, rich in tradition yet alive with innovation. Learn More »

Picture a romantic retreat in the French countryside where days conclude with glowing fireplaces and elegant meals, and you will have the essence of Mille Fleurs. The restaurant, which is located on a small estate off a windy road in Rancho Santa Fe, offers a warm and charming atmosphere that plays host to stunning haute cuisine. Chef Martin Wosele’s menu, which changes daily, delicately melds European culinary traditions with local California ingredients. The result is sensational and exquisite fine dining which, as evidenced by numerous awards and national recognition, makes Mille Fleurs one of the most significant dining establishments in … Learn More »

Kearny Mesa is keeping a big secret. In the corner of a tiny strip mall, slightly off the beaten track, hides a venue serving some of the most delicious Korean barbeque in the neighborhood. Although the outside façade is quite unassuming, Mapo greets guests with warm familiarity and the mouthwatering aromas of roasted meat. With an extensive menu featuring everything from seafood dishes to spicy noodle bowls, guests are even offered the unique option of grilling their entrees tableside. Showcasing a generous All-You-Can-Eat-Special, they are perfect for larger family gatherings or the solo diner seeking a quick lunch. Ordering a … Learn More »

LA BONNE TABLE is a cozy and intimate restaurant in the heart of the bustling neighborhood of Hillcrest. We serve country french food in a bistro fashion. Our menu consists of classic french dishes, a modest but excellent selection that will change with the seasons. We offer a romantic atmosphere and elegant setting, full bar and french beer on tap. Reservations are recommended as seating is very limited in this exclusive restaurant. ​Bon Appetit! Learn More »

Where Guinness flows, good times follow; and Dublin Square serves up both in abundance. Built in Ireland and transplanted to the Gaslamp Quarter of downtown San Diego, this authentic Irish pub satisfies appetites and souls with the warm and welcoming spread of Irish culture and fare. If food and drink is what you’re pining for, look to Dublin Square’s menu any time of day. Come for their daily breakfast and enjoy dishes like the Corned Beef Hash and Eggs or the All Day Irish Breakfast that includes black and white pudding. For lunch, dinner, and everything in between, many crave … Learn More »

A contemporary, uber-cool interior and décor mirror a chic California-coastal inspired kitchen in Point Loma at the Restaurant at The Pearl. Chef Todd Bencivenni combines his passion for local ingredients with an diverse culinary background to create flavorful, memorable dishes. Eclectic dishes come from a variety of regions across the U.S including a magnificent Mac & Cheese appetizer made with Spring Hill Cheddar and a Grilled Pork Chop with potatoes, apple chutney and fresh farmers market veggies for a solid main course. Whether you’re dining inside or by the pool, in a cabana or beach chair, weekly movies from The … Learn More »

Tio Leo’s has provided San Diego with quality Mexican food since 1979. The family owned and run restaurant started with one location and expanded to four, by consistently sticking with their motto of “Great Food, Great Service, and Generous Portions.” Tio Leo’s menu offers a wide range of traditional Mexican dishes, as well as some unique specialties. The health-conscious will love Tio Leo’s “Healthy Choice” selections, such as Grilled Eggplant Tacos and Pollo Asado Rice Bowl; the ravenous will appreciate Tio Leo’s Ole’, a platter with a taco, chile relleno, tostada, enchilada, carne asada, beans, rice, sour cream and guacamole. … Learn More »

Downtown and thirsty for something a little stronger than water? Look no further than Taste & Thirst, a late night hub of wallet-friendly eats and drinks including a hearty array of appetizers, burgers, soups, sandwiches and salads. Enjoy the Truffle Fries made with truffle oil, tossed in parmesan cheese, chopped garlic, and parsley flakes, or the Marinated Sirloin Tips made with a half pound of their charbroiled signature sirloin tips served over rice pilaf and mixed veggies. With 14 High Definition television screens for your sports-viewing pleasure, spend game night at Taste & Thirst where there is plenty to entertain … Learn More »