Pannikin Coffee & Tea (Several locations): We can’t make the drive down to San Diego without a stop at Pannikin! It’s quaint, it’s cozy, their coffee is solid, and their scones are what Bobby likes to call “scone planets”. AKA, they’re really good and really big and worth the trip to SD just for them. (@pannikincoffeeandtea)
Coffee Coffee (Leucadia): Located right next to Surfy Surfy is Coffee Coffee - and it makes us giggle every time. You’ll find lots of surfer groms in this minimal and cool coffee shop, and they know what’s up. The coffee is good. (@coffee_coffee_leucadia)
Philz Coffee (Several locations): Drip coffee is taken to a whole other level at Philz, where every cup is made by hand, right in front of your eyes! Their customized blends are perfectly smooth and tasty, and the baristas will make them exactly to your liking! (@philzcoffee)
Bobby’s pick: Silken Splendor
Alli’s pick: Iced Mojito with half sweetener
Bird Rock Coffee Roasters (La Jolla): This little coffee shop is making big waves - as they were recently featured in Forbes as one of the 12 Best Coffee Roasters in the US! The coffee is perfectly smooth and balanced, and well worth a visit. (@birdrockcoffeeroasters)
Revolution Roasters (Oceanside): Oceanside is really stepping up their food and coffee game - and this place is proof. Here you can grab a (really great cappuccino), an Instagram-worthy slice of avocado toast, and relax in a cool, effortless environment. If you’re in the area, don’t go to Starbucks. Go here. (@revolutionroasters)
Lofty Coffee (Several locations): The hip, layed-back San Diego vibes run deep at Lofty - and we absolutely love it. They take coffee seriously, but in a calm and casual way, and it totally works. (Like the barista will go to great lengths to explane the origin of your roast, then ask you to surf after.) Their breakfast menu is limited but delicious, and no matter which location you go to, there’s always plenty of seating and solid people watching. (@loftycoffeeco)
Bobby’s pick: Whatever pour-over the barista recommends
Alli’s pick: Cappuccino
Coava: Originally from Portland, Coava is one of our favorite spots when we’re in the Pacific Northwest. We were so excited to hear they were coming to San Diego! Their downtown location is spacious, has lovely outdoor seating, and excellent coffee. If you just starting the journey into craft coffee (it’s okay if Starbucks is your thing), start here. (@coavacoffee)
Better Buzz: With locations popping up all over San Diego, Better Buzz seems to be a local favorite. With consistent high-quality coffee and a great atmosphere to relax (or work), Better Buzz really lives up to their name. Their Hillcrest flagship store is the best! (@betterbuzz)
Bobby’s pick: Best Drink Ever (it’s an Americano with a twist)
Alli’s pick: Cafe Latte
Breakfast
Richard Walker’s Pancake House: Home-cooked breakfasts, massive portions, and stellar service. Once you’ve dined at Richard Walker’s you understand why they have such a loyal clientele, and why the wait can sometimes take over 45 minutes! Get there early! (@richardwalkerspancakehouse)
Bobby’s pick: The San Diego French Toast
Alli’s pick: The Banana Pancakes
Cafe 222: If it’s been featured by Bobby Flay as “The Best Thing I ever Ate”, you better believe it’s pretty darn amazing. Cafe 222 has a lot of epic items on the menu, but we suggest coming for the Peanut Butter and Banana French Toast. You’ll definitely agree with Mr. Flay - it’s downright delicious! (@cafe222sd)
Bobby’s pick: The Peanut Butter and Banana French Toast
Alli’s pick: The Peanut Butter and Banana French Toast (just do it.)
The Donut Bar: We’re big donut fans and San Diego’s iconic “Donut Bar” is just about everything we’d want from a modern donut shop. They have an overwhelming amount of flavors, (which usually means we buy a ridiculous amount because “Gotta try ‘em all!” and they even have Stumptown coffee on tap… Because you need something strong to wash down all of those donuts! (@donutbar)
Bobby’s pick: The Maple Bacon
Alli’s pick: The Unicorn Cake
Claire’s On Cedros (Solana Beach): This restaurant, cafe and bakery has it all - and it’s ALL really good. Whether you order something simple, like the Classic Breakfast, or more unique, like the Short Rib Hash, you’ll be blown away by the quality and the consistency. It’s breakfast (and lunch) at its finest. (@clairesoncedros)
Bobby’s pick: Short Rib Hash
Alli’s pick: Green Scramble
Swami’s Cafe (Multiple locations): I (Alli) have been coming to Swami’s for years, and it keeps getting better. If you’re looking for a low-key, healthy, local’s spot with an extensive menu and affordable prices - this is it. If you’re single, there’s lots of surfer boys (and girls) - you’ll thank me later. ;) (@swamiscafeofficial)
Bobby’s pick: ABC Omelette
Alli’s pick: Black Egg Burrito
Pipes Cafe (Encinitas): Speaking of surfers - they flock to Pipes for breakfast too! Their servings are hearty, the food is fresh, and it comes at a price you can’t beat. There’s nothing fancy about it, but it’s good - especially if it’s after a surf sesh. (And they serve breakfast all day!) (Pipes Cafe on Instagram)
Bobby’s pick: #4 Burrito
Alli’s pick: Breakfast Tacos
Beach Break Cafe (Oceanside): One of the best breakfasts in San Diego can be found here. The wait can be long (especially on the weekends), but don’t let that deter you. You can even enjoy a hot cup of coffee while you wait! It’s simple, tasty breakfasts that will leave you craving more. Especially their perfectly crispy hash browns and fluffy french toast… and their drool-worthy coffee cake! (@beachbreakcafe)
Bobby’s pick: Killer Burrito
Alli’s pick: Kelley’s Bagel
Hash House A Go Go (Hillcrest): They like to call it “Twisted Farm Food” - we like to call it “Big Menu, Larger Portions” - but regardless, come hungry. From their famous Hashes, to their Scrambles, to their HH Signature Flapjacks, their dishes are high-quality, delicious, and creative. Make a reservation or go early - it gets packed. (@hashhouseagogo)
Bobby’s pick: HH Original Farm Benedict
Alli’s pick: The Tractor Driver Combo
The Cottage (La Jolla): This iconic La Jolla breakfast cottage is a San Diego must - and the hype (and the lines) prove it. Get there early or check into their waitlist through Yelp to avoid waiting in line - but even if you do, it’s worth it. (@thecottagelajolla)
Bobby’s pick: Eggs La Jolla
Alli’s pick: Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
Queenstown Public House (Little Italy): A New Zealand restaurant in San Diego’s Little Italy. Totally makes sense, right? Ok, not at all - but it works. And it’s hip. And it’s tasty. And we love it. (And their patio is really fun and dog friendly - so bring your pup!) (@queenstownph)
Bobby’s pick: Croissant Sandwich
Alli’s pick: Double BLT With Egg
The Mission (Multiple Locations): You simply can’t go wrong with The Mission. The menu is full of Mexican-inspired breakfast dishes, and that’s something we can get behind. Plus they have a french toast that’s TDF (to die for). They have three San Diego locations, go to all of them. (The Mission on Instagram)
Bobby’s pick: Mission French Toast
Alli’s pick: Mission Rosemary
Lunch/Dinner
C Level: Some of the best views of the San Diego skyline and harbor can be found at this stunning restaurant. They have a Happy Hour from 3:30-5:30 that’s perfect for catching the sunset (and treating yourself to a drink or two)! (@islandprimeclevel)
Hodad’s (Several Locations): Hodad’s has been a San Diego staple since 1973, and we’d go as far as saying that they’re the best burgers in town! The portions are huge, the burgers are juicy, the price is cheap, and the service is great. Chances are you’ll have to wait in line, but the line moves quick. (@hodads1502)
Bobby’s pick: Guido Burger
Alli’s pick: Single Cheeseburger
Stone Brewery (Escondido): While there is a newer Stone Brewery located in Liberty Station, our favorite is still the original location in Escondido. It’s beautiful! You can explore their outdoor beer garden, go on a brewery tour, and enjoy their homemade, high-quality menu. Even if you don’t love beer, you’ll love it here! Start with the bavarian pretzel! (@stonebrewing)
Bobby’s pick: So-Cal Short Rib Grilled Cheese
Alli’s pick: Stone’s Impossible Burger
Pizza Port (Several Locations): It’s a good thing we don’t live close to a Pizza Port, or our pants would never fit. Their pizza is fresh and fluffy and comes in a variety of styles - and we love how laid back and casual it is. Come with friends, order a bunch of pizzas and some pitchers of beer, and you’ve got the makings of a killer night! (@pizzaportbrewingco)
Point Loma Seafoods (Point Loma): This is Alli’s parents favorite restaurant in San Diego, and they went almost weekly when they lived nearby. It’s some of the best, freshest, most consistent and affordable seafood around. (@pointlomaseafoods)
Bobby’s pick: Calamari Sandwich
Alli’s pick: Fish and Chip
Juniper & Ivy (Little Italy): This spot has won countless awards, and it’s truly worth all the hype. It’s founded by Top Chef’s Richard Blais, and (in our opinion) it’s the best place to go in San Diego for a special occasion. It’s molecular gastronomy, and every serving is whimsical and unusual. (The menu changes often, so our picks might not be current) (@juniperandivy)
Bobby’s pick: Beef Tenderloin
Alli’s pick: White Seabass
Underbelly (Little Italy): Asian-fusion in the heart of Little Italy. Kinda weird right? Regardless - it’s incredible. And if you’re a fan of ramen, you’ll be a fan of this place. It’s casual, order-at-the-counter, and a perfect lunch spot! (@underbellylittleitaly)
Bobby’s pick: Underbelly Ramen
Alli’s pick: Seedy Side Ramen
Mona Lisa (Little Italy): Our favorite Italian deli in Little Italy - everything is fresh, high quality, and you can’t beat the price! We recommend getting your sandwiches to go and taking them down to the bay or to the beach. (@monalisalittleitalysd)
Bobby’s pick: Deluxe Sub
Alli’s pick: Caprese
Civico 1845 (Little Italy): If you find yourself in Little Italy, stop at Civico 1845 for fresh, tasty, and authentic Italian cuisine. The space is light and bright, with a rustic dining room and a lively atmosphere. The fresh, handmade pasta took us back to Tuscany, and the Tiramisu is SO good! We are suckers for good Italian food, and Civico 1845 is a place we wish we lived closer too! (@civico1845)
Bobby’s pick: Pappardelle Brasato
Alli’s pick: Gnocchi Zucca E Gamberi (AND Tiramisu)
Mozy (Leucadia): Acai bowls, burritos, smoothies, and more - Mozy’s is our favorite summertime spot. It’s affordable ($7.50 for most burritos), fresh, and healthy. They have tons of vegan/vegetarian options too! (@mozycafe)
Bobby’s pick: Taco Plate
Alli’s pick: Caribbean Burrito
Herringbone (La Jolla): You can’t beat the ambiance in Herringbone - there’s olive trees growing inside, twinkle lights, brick covered walls… it’s beautiful. They serve oysters, seafood, flatbreads, and more, and they have a great Happy Hour that’s seven days a week! (@herringboneeats)
Bobby’s pick: Seared Albacore Tuna
Alli’s pick: Wild Barramundi Sea Bass
George’s At The Cove (La Jolla): There’s a reason why George’s At The Cove has been voted San Diego’s best restaurant - they have a picture perfect terrace, high quality cuisine, and an incredible ocean view. If you’ve never been to George’s, move it to the top on your list! (They also have a great happy hour!) (@georgesatthecove)
Bobby’s pick: Grilled Faroe Islands Salmon
Alli’s pick: George’s Famous Soup
Catania (La Jolla): Some of the best wood fired pizzas, fresh pastas, and people watching can be found at Catania. There’s nothing we love more than grabbing a seat on their outdoor patio on a warm day… paired with a hearty serving of their Handmade Tagliatelle alla Portofino, and it’s basically heaven on earth. (@cataniasd)
Bobby’s pick: Tagliatelle Alla Portofino
Alli’s pick: Butternut Squash Dumplings
El Pescador Fish Market (La Jolla): Seafood lovers, we’ve found your new favorite San Diego eatery. It’s gorgeous, it’s fresh, and it’s fast - and you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. But if we were to recommend anything, we are BIG fans of their fish tacos! (@elpescadorfishmarket)
WhipHand (East Village): This cool new bar and eatery is casual, with a fine dining twist - and we love it! They have self-serve beer on tap (you get charged by the ounce), a small yet delicious menu, and fun, open ambiance. (@whiphandsd)
Bobby’s pick: Short Rib Pie A La Biscuit
Alli’s pick: Vegan DBL Cheeseburger Wrap
Salud (Barrio Logan): This super hip and popular taco shop is always a blast to visit - even if just for the colorful ambiance alone! But what continues to draw us in is their Taco Tuesday - 3 tacos for $6 - yes please!! (@saludtacos)
Juanitas Taco Shop (Encinitas): Alli’s been coming to Jaunitas since she was a little girl, and always for one thing: the chicken burrito. This taco shop is no-frills, cheap, quick, and as authentic as you can get. (Juanitas Taco Shop on Instagram)
The Crack Shack: Top Chef’s Richard Blais is the mastermind behind this fried chicken joint, and it’s everything we could want and more. A tasty and creative menu, full bar, fun environment, and EXTREMELY dog friendly. Come hungry!! (@getcrackshacked)
The Taco Stand (Encinitas): Three words: Carne Asada Fries. Oh ya, their tacos are great too - but those fries. We’d drive to Encinitas just for them. This casual Mexican restaurant can get busy quick, but don’t let the long line deter you. It’s well worth the wait. (@letstaco_)
Campfire (Carlsbad): Quite possibly the most Instagrammable restaurant in San Diego, Campfire will have you feeling as though you’re on a camping trip with friends - complete with teepees, camping canisters, s’mores and more! We recommend splurging on the “Camp Feast” for $65/person. With over 8 courses, it’s definitely worth the price. (@campfirerestaurant)
Sally’s San Diego: Confession #1: Our dog’s name is Sally, so we’re biased on this place. Confession #2: It’s one of the best-kept secrets in downtown San Diego, and we’d like to keep it that way - so don’t tell too many people, k? If you’re looking for a great lunch spot with mouth-watering food and a killer view, Sally’s is your ticket. They have something for everyone - sushi? They’ve got it. Fish and chips? The best we’ve ever had! And it’s right on the water in Seaport Village. (Oh, and don’t even get us started on the pet menu!!) (@sallysfishhouse)
Bobby’s pick: Pacific Snapper
Alli’s pick: Fish & Chips
Sally’s pick: Surf + T-arf or the Frozen Pawpsicles (seriously)
Puesto: Because when are tacos and margaritas EVER a bad idea?! Puesto is one of our San Diego go-to’s, and it has yet to disappoint. Fun and hip decor, friendly staff, and a fun and interactive take on traditional Mexican food. Hint- the menu is mostly unique tacos. We’re here for it. (@eatpuesto)
Our picks: Mix & Match tacos - they’re all delish!
Grand Ole BBQ (North Park): Twenty minutes north of downtown will take you to quirky North Park area, which is full of amazing restaurants like Grand Ole BBQ. Claiming to be “the biggest smokehouse west of Texas”, this BBQ joint has brought Central Texas BBQ to Southern California. Everything here is good - from the BBQ (duh), to the steaks, and the burgers. Come hungry! (@grandolebbqyasado)
Buona Forchetta: Another SD gem for Italian food, Buona Forchetta is one of our favorites for pizza! They have a dreamy outdoor seating area, an authentic wood-fired oven that was handmade in Naples (that they’ve named Sophia), and gluten-free crust options if you’d like. Enjoy! (@buonaforchettasouthpark)
Bobby’s pick: Jove Pizza - burrata, bresaola, arugula, and shaved parmesan
Alli’s pick: Margherita Pizza (simple, and amazing)
Noble Experiment: There’s just something really fun and hipster about speakeasy’s, and this one’s one of our favorites. Entering through the “hidden” door will never NOT be a thrill! (@nobleexperiment)
Alli’s pick: Dealer’s Choice (you name the spirit, and the bartender creates!)
Bobby’s pick: Feather Weight Old Fashioned
Union Kitchen & Tap (Encinitas): We love this trendy Encinitas bar for its laid-back vibes, craft cocktails, and edgy gastropub style. The food is great too (try the flatbread!), and they have ample seating - perfect for groups, and barhopping! (@unionkitchentap)
The Charles Kenneth (Carlsbad): Bet you didn’t know that Carlsbad has a speakeasy! Well, now you do. And you should go. Call ahead (find the number here) and you’ll be given a password for the evening. We won’t say more than that - but get ready for an experience you won’t forget! (@thecaptaincharleskenneth)
Raised By Wolves (La Jolla): Maybe it’s a little weird that this speakeasy is hidden in the inside of a mall, or maybe it’s pure genius. Either way, we love this spot. (@raisedbywolvesspirits)
Viewpoint Brewing (Del Mar): This craft brewery and restaurant is just what we’ve been waiting to see in Del Mar - and it couldn’t be cooler! You have prime views of the San Dieguito Lagoon and the iconic Del Mar Racetrack. Plus, their beer is really good. And they have skeeball. We’ll go anywhere if there’s skeeball! (@viewpointbrewingco)
Vin de Syrah (Gaslamp): Located underground (below The Melting Pot, if you get confused), is an Alice in Wonderland themed wine/cocktail bar that’s always a favorite of ours.Depending on the night you go (weekends or week day), it can be jamming with a dj or super mellow and lounge-like. Either way, it’s a blast - and super magical! (@vindesyrah)
False Idol (Little Italy): A speakeasy tiki bar… Need we say more? Hidden behind a steel freezer door within Craft and Commerce, the drinks here are as strong as the aloha vibes, so be forewarned. Make a reservation or come early, as wait times can be long! (@falseidoltiki)
You & Yours (East Village): San Diego’s first destination distillery - and it’s cute (and insta-worthy) to boot! They serve seasonal, handcrafted cocktails that are as pretty as they are tasty, and the staff couldn’t be friendlier. Plus it’s founded by one of the country’s few female distillers - YA LAURA! (Thanks Ryan Rogers, for telling us about this gem of a place!) (@youandyourssd)
The Nolen: The best happy hour in Downtown San Diego. And it’s on a rooftop. Need we say more? Oh, and it’s 4-6pm, 7 days a week. (@thenolenrooftop)
The Manchester Grand Hyatt : Not only has this hotel been a landmark on the San Diego skyline for years, but it’s every bit as magnificent inside as one would imagine! Being such a big hotel, their staff’s attention to detail is really impressive, and the rooms feature jaw-dropping views of the bay. Oh, and they’re REALLY dog friendly. If you have a pup and you’re coming to San Diego, stay here. Your pet will love you for it. (@grandhyattsd)
The US Grant: Another iconic building in San Diego, The US Grant is by far the most charming hotel downtown. From their elegant lobby to the exquisite rooms (one of the most lush, comfy hotel beds we’ve had!), you’ll no doubt feel like royalty while you’re staying there! (Or just really important - which is also cool.) (@theusgrant)
Pendry San Diego (Gaslamp): This luxury boutique hotel is right in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, and it’s beautiful. From the attention to detail, to the attentive staff, to the convenient location, it’s one of the best hotels in San Diego, hands down. (@pendrysandiego)
L’Auberge Del Mar (Del Mar): If you’re looking for a romantic seaside escape, stay here. Located in the heart of Del Mar, and steps from the ocean, L’Auberge is coastal-luxury at its best. You won’t want to leave! (@laubergedelmar)
Surfhouse Boutique (Encinitas): This modern boutique hotel was founded by a couple of local surfers, and it’s amazing what they’ve done with it! Each of the 8 rooms named after local surf breaks, and decorated with art designed by local artists. Our favorite is the Moonlight! (@surfhouseadventures)
La Valencia Hotel (La Jolla): This iconic hotel is a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown La Jolla. It’s old world charm meets modern luxury, as every room is quaint and well kept - and they have one of the best pools in the area! Plus, the hotel is the most perfect shade of pink! (Alli’s favorite detail) ;) (@lavalenciahotel)
Hotel Del Coronado: Speaking of iconic San Diego hotels… We’d be remiss if we didn’t include the Hotel Del! It’s a splurge, but in our opinion it’s worth it for the amenities and the location. You can have an amazing weekend getaway, and never leave the hotel! (@delcoronado)
Bike around Coronado Island: If you don’t have bikes, you can easily rent them. It’s the perfect little island town to get lost in for the day - admire the quaint homes, grab lunch at the Hotel Del, and watch the sunset over the water.
Brewery Hop: The beer scene in San Diego is about as good as it gets - and as new breweries keep popping up, it’s only getting better and better. Some of our favorites to visit are: Ballast Point, Green Flash, Stone, Port & Lost Abbey, Fall Brewing and Rip Current.
Liberty Station (Point Loma): What was once the Naval Training Center, there’s something for everyone at the new (and lively) Liberty Station! From food halls, to shops, restaurants, breweries… Even a Trader Joe’s! (@libertystation)
Little Italy: San Diego’s Little Italy is something special. From the to-die-for Italian food, to the warm and eccentric locals, to the young artists and entrepreneurs that grace the streets - it’s a melting pot of downtown SD! Walk around, eat your weight in pasta, and make friends at a local coffee shop.
Old Town: Historic Old Town San Diego is a hidden gem just south of the city center. It was California’s first settlement, and now is a bustling place to walk around, grab some amazing Mexican food, and do some souvenir shopping!
Totally pet friendly!! From the Grand Hyatt to downtown restaurants with outdoor seating and DOG MENUS - San Diego is about as dog friendly as you can get! Take your pup to Sprinkles for a “pupcake”, there’s “Yappy Hour” at the iconic Hotel Del on Sundays, and let them roam free at the North Beach Dog Run!
