San Diego Restaurant Tips by lmkluque Top 5 Page for this destination

Restaurant Week in San Diego: Over 100 Restaurants to Choose From! Information / Sources Review

Twice a year, throughout the county of San Diego "Restaurant Week" is an event that gives restaurants the opportunity of offering an example of their cuisine at a reduced price. This is especially nice for those on a budget.

Check the website listed below to see if the dates coincide with your visit to San Diego.

To be Continued....

Favorite Dish: Fixed priced meals for each restaurant will be set for lunch (newly offered this year) and dinner.

Lunch: Two-course $10, $15, $20
Dinner:Three-course $20, $30, $40

Address: Throughout the County of San Diego

Comparison: less expensive than average

Price: US$31-40

Rating: 5

Theme: Eclectic/International

Website: http://www.sandiegorestaurantweek.com/

Mad House Comedy Club & Restaurant: In the Gaslamp Quarter

Update:

The Napa Valley Grille Closed

I haven't been here for a while and guess I thought the Napa Valley Grille would withstand the economic decent. Seems I was wrong. The Napa Valley Grille has closed and in it's place is now the Mad House Comedy Club & Restaurant.

I haven't been to this one yet but will tell you what I know so far and will give my opinion once I've stopped here.

They are open seven nights a week and offer two shows, at 8:00 pm and 10:30 pm so they open for seating at 7:00 pm/10:00 pm. There normally isn't a cover charge nor a 2-drink minimum, which is unusual for such a club. You do have to have tickets for a show and can get them on-line from their website or by calling their number. It seems that a ticket can cost anywhere between $0.00 to $20.00 depending on the talent/night of the week. Since you have to be 21 years to enter, I think I'll add this also as a Nightlife Tip.

However, though their menu isn't what I'd call fine dining, it does seem appropriate for the venue with enough variety to offer something to everyone in your party.

Smoking is allowed on their patio, but I don't know if you can still see the show while out there.

Favorite Dish: I think I'd order the BBQ Pulled Pork pizza with an Individual Side Salad or maybe the Fancy French Onion Soup. The last I heard they don't have their Liquor license yet so I'd stick with a glass of white wine.

Update:

The liquor license has been issued and the club seems to be doing well. There are lots of budding comedians showing up to entertain. In fact, one of my oldest son's friends is featured once in a while.

Address: 502 Horton Plaza Atop Horton Plaza

Comparison: about average

Directions: Located at the top level of Horton Plaza

Phone: (619) 702-6666

Price: US$21-30

Rating: 4

Theme: Eclectic/International

Website: http://madhousecomedyclub.com/

The Panda Inn: A Great Chinese Restaurant!! Panda Inn Review

IMHO this is the best Chinese restaurant in San Diego County. The decor is lovely, there is a spectacular view of downtown and the bay, the prices are moderate, the food is fresh, aromatic, flavorful and delicious. They have a full service bar, the service is prompt and friendly. Most of all the food is excellent!

This is listed as Mandarin but they offer Szechwan style and a few other dishes such as Thai, Singaporian and Mongolian inspired flavors.

I want to mention that The Panda Inn seems to be connected to the Panda Express chain found around the city. The food at The Panda Inn is so much better than that I've had at any Panda Express, so don't go by that experience if you've tried Panda Express and thought it lacking in some way.

The Panda Inn will not disappoint!

Favorite Dish: At Panda Inn, you will most likely find a few of your favorite items, they offer most of those found traditionally in Chinese restaurants, but they have lots of lesser known dishes and trying any of them is a treat.

One of my favorite dishes is Kong Pao Chicken. I've had this and others and the flavors of each item is very good.

Their weekend buffet is really nice with a wide variety of choices and the price is quite reasonable.

Address: 596 Horton Plaza, San Diego, 92101

Comparison: about average

Directions: Located right next to the Napa Valley Grille in Horton Plaza, Rather, next to where Napa Valley Grille once was.

Phone: (619) 233-7800

Price: US$11-20

Rating: 5

Theme: Chinese/Dim Sum

Website: http://www.pandainn.com/

Croce's: Jazz Lovers and Fans of Jim Croce! Croce's Restaurant & Bar Review

Croce's was opened in the earliest days of the Gaslamp Quarter's renovation, by Ingrid Croce, widow of Jim Croce. Some of you may be too young to remember Jim Croce, he died in 1973. You may have heard one of his loveliest song, "Thyme in a Bottle?" Have you heard that?

There have been a few expansions located at various spots near the three story brick, "Cole Building," built in 1889-1890, which houses the original Croce's.

The restaurant is a bit pricey but the food is good. What makes this a must is the Jazz bar nextdoor--also Croce's--and from your seat in the dining room the strains of great jazz drifts through, adding to the mood.

Ingrid Croce is a very community minded woman and a hand's-on owner/operator. Not only is she quite interested in pleasing her customers, the history of "Croce's" is basically a love story dedicated to her husband who died so long ago. Their son, Adrian James Croce, song writer/singer Musician has been playing a bigger part here too, as a musician. I think you'll be pretty satisfied with the food and service, not to mention the music.

Update:

Croce's has not renewed the lease and will soon be moving to a new location. When that happens, I will give the new address in another update.

Favorite Dish: The portions are small by USA standards and the prices are high, but the food is good.

Giving a specific suggestion would not be useful as the menu is changed frequently by the chef. However the flavors are always good. I would suggest any of the seafood dishes. Delicate and delicious.

Address: 802 Fifth Avenue

Comparison: more expensive than average

Directions: Gaslamp Quarter

Phone: (619) 232-4338

Price: US$21-30

Rating: 4

Theme: Eclectic/International

Website: http://www.croces.com/

The Cheese Cake Factory: More Than Cheese Cake The Cheesecake Factory Review

A full service restaurant in Fashion Valley Mall, for all Shoppers, who want a great place to take a break and give your feet a rest.

There is also a food court in this mall offering, as I remember, Mexican, Chinese, Greek and surely American as well as other fast foods, but I like the Cheese Cake Factory much more. The Blue Line Trolley has a stop here too!

Though this is a good sized restaurant, sometimes there is a bit of a wait to be seated. This place is not only convenient for shoppers it also is pretty popular with the locals. Usually the wait isn't too long and the experience is worth it.

Favorite Dish: The menu is extensive and to be as brief as possible I'll list a few items I particularly like.
The Avacado Eggroll was a pleasant surprise for me. Normally, I don't care for "mixed" cultural cuisine, but this time my niece insisted I try. It was really good!
I also liked the Fresh Grilled Salmon, Herb Crusted Filet of Salmon, Cobb Salad
Fabulous Chocolate Mousse Cake and the Godiva Chocolate Cheesecake.

However, you'll not be limited to my prefrence, there are a couple of hundred--it seems--choices on this menu.

Address: 7067 Friars Road

Comparison: about average

Directions: Fashion Valley Mall. Just off the "Blue" Trolley Line.

Phone: (619) 683-2800

Price: US$11-20

Rating: 4

Theme: American

Website: http://www.thecheesecakefactory.com/

Rubios Baja Grill: Favorite of Fresh Fish Taco Lovers and Others Rubio's Baja Grill Review

Rubios is a chain restaurant, is very popular. Here you'll see a sign offering lobster tacos on sale, for $1.99! If your budget prohibits a lavish meal at some of the nicest restaurants in town, there are plenty of healthy "fast food" places to choose from such as Rubios. However, as prices continuely rise, expect to pay quite a bit more than this fantastic "sale" price for a lobster taco. The last time I had a fish taco here, the taco plate was $7.95 (2012)

While trying to find out the exact address of this location, the closest I could find was at the Hall Of Justice. This might mean that the Hillcrest location has closed. Until I check it out I will include the downtown address for you and will ammend this page when I get the facts.

Update:

Yes, the Hillcrest store and even the downtown location has closed. However, the nearest to downtown locations still open are.

Rubio's POINT LOMA
3555 Rosecrans Street
San Diego, CA 92110
(619) 223-2631
Rubio's SAN DIEGO - Fashion Valley Mall
7007 Friars Road
San Diego, CA 92108
(619) 718-9975
Rubio's MISSION VALLEY
2075 Camino De La Reina
San Diego, CA 92108
( 619) 299-6502
Rubio's MISSION BAY
4504 E. Mission Bay Drive
San Diego, CA 92109
(858) 272-2801

There are no Rubio's nearer to the downtown area any more, but several are near popular tourists spots so check their website before you venture out. It's an inexpensive place for a quick meal.

Favorite Dish: Fish Tacos are the speciality here and they taste very good. There is a pretty good selection of other items to choose from, including beef and chicken.

If interested in stopping at Rubio's I suggest taking a look at their website to see what coupons they offer, this can cut down the price you'll pay too.

The photos are of the old Hilcrest and Chula Vista locations, but will give you and idea of what type of place this is. Sort of Mexican, " on the beach" feel.

Address: 2075 Camino De La Reina, 92108

Comparison: less expensive than average

Directions: Near Mission Valley Mall and many other locations throughout San Diego

Phone: (619) 299-6502

Price: less than US$10

Rating: 3

Theme: Mexican

Website: http://www.rubios.com/

Casa De Pico: Viva Mexico and it's Food! Casa de Pico Review

Though Casa de Pico has moved to the Grossmont Center, it hasn't lost it's festive atmosphere in the transition.

Here you'll find an extended menu, good food, good service, lively crowd and a colorful, festive atmosphere.

The brightly colored umbrellas covering tables in the patio may give you the idea that this is a "touist" favorite and it is, however this is a favorite of the locals as well. Usually there is a bit of a wait, so arrive early. While waiting, it is possible to order fresh handmade tortillas form the tortilla lady, who will pat out and cook tortillas as you watch, remember to give her a tip for the effort.

Update:

As of 18 May 2005 Casa De Pico will no longer be found in Old Town! However, two new locations are planned. Summer 2005 it will open up in the Grossmont Shopping Center along Grossmont Drive and in the summer of 2006 Casa De Pico will open in the New location of Bazaar Del Mondo which will be at the Old Police Station near Seaport Village!

Update:

It seems that Casa de Pico has only one location after all. It is in the city of La Mesa. This is not near downtown SD but some miles east of the city.

Fortunately it is not hard to get to from downtown. Take the SD Trolley, Orange Line or Green Line to the Grossmont Center stop and just up the stairs and a half block or so will be Grossmont Center and Casa de Pico.

They are open for lunch and dinner, Happy Hour is between 3 pm and 7 pm, during dinners there are roving Mariachis/Troubadours to entertain and generally if the wait for a table seems too long, you can usually get a table in the Cantina quicker, so keep that in mind.

Favorite Dish: The biggest Margaritas in town! Tacos al Pastor, Chicken Fajitas, Carne Asada, and Carnitas are my favorites, but everything else is just as good.

Address: 5500 Grossmont Center Drive

Comparison: less expensive than average

Directions: Grossmont Center

Phone: (619) 296-3267

Price: US$11-20

Rating: 5

Theme: Mexican

Website: http://www.casadepico.com/

San Diego Pier Cafe: My Favorite Place San Diego Pier Café Review

This restaurant was one of my favorites and a treat to all my visitors when I was able to go out to eat often.

The pier sits on stilts in the Bay of San Diego and from almost every table there is a view of some part of the Bay. It is located in Seaport Village, a popular tourist spot in the downtown area of San Diego. However, it is not only tourists that come here for a meal. My preference is sitting outside. The decor is nautical with simple blues and grays. The food is good, the service is good and the view accompanied by the fresh ocean breeze is wonderful.

Favorite Dish: Grilled Seafood Grill, New England Clam Chowder, Oysters on the half shell, Stuffed Mushrooms and a nice California Wine were my favorite items from the menu.

Update:

They've changed things a bit and no longer offer the Seafood Grill at lunch time, only at dinner and Oysters on the half shell are gone completley now. Also, there seems to be a turn towards more Mexican flavors in some of the dishes.

I will tell you that besides the view and ambience, it was the Stuffed Mushrooms and New England Clam Chowder I came here for.

There are plenty of other dishes to choose from, including beef, chicken, vegetarian and a kid's menu, so I'm sure you'll find something that will please you too.

Address: 885 West Harbor Drive

Comparison: about average

Directions: In Seaport Village (at Kettner Blvd.)

Phone: (619) 239-3968

Price: US$11-20

Rating: 5

Theme: Seafood

Website: http://www.piercafe.com/

The Prado: A Place To Relax The Prado Review

Table and chairs are placed here just outside the entrance and though I'm sure they are meant for use by the bar patrons, we were permitted to sit here while drinking a coffee purchased at a kiosk just around the corner, which is pretty generous of them. Of course, hadf the restaurant been busy, our sitting there would, understandably, not have been allowed.

Parking is free, but finding a space near is difficult. Some days there are pedicabs roaming the lots and for a price will wheel you to the restaurant. After 5:00 p.m. valet service is offered.

The 'courtyard' area, is located behind the restaurant and is a lovely place to eat on a bright summer's day.

The dining room closes lunch off at 3:00 p.m. and opens for dinner at 5:00 p.m. However, these hours are extended in the Lounge.

Favorite Dish: The cuisine of The Prado is said to be "Latin-Italian fusion." I'd say it's more "Eclectic/International"

The price range is on the high side, but for those of you on a budget, I'd suggest Happy Hour here. The drinks are less expensive than during meal times and the appetizers can be shared and serve as a light meal. Plus, it's generally a quieter time of day for the restaurant so can be a peaceful repose.

If you happen to be here during meal times and would like to at least see this restaurant, but can't afford a meal, I'd suggest stopping in for a drink. The lounge combines a tapas menu with a wide variety of margaritas and other beverages at their full service bar. More expensive than Happy Hour, but not as price-y as a full meal.

Address: 1549 El Prado

Comparison: about average

Directions: Balboa Park on the Prado in the Courtyard of the House of Hospitality

Phone: (619) 557-9441

Price: US$21-30

Rating: 4

Theme: Eclectic/International

Website: http://www.pradobalboa.com

Benihana!!: One of the Best at Hotel Circle!

When Hotel Circle was created as a central location for tourists to stay, Benihana moved in. It was a new concept for us and soon became a place to choose for our special celebrations. Hotel Circle has lost some of it's draw, but Benihana is still as wonderful a place as it was back then.

Anyone staying in Hotel Circle should know about Benihana and have at least one meal there. Each "table" which seats up to eight people, has it's own grill. All the the chopping and dicing of meats and vegetables for the meal and the cooking of most food is done, right in front of you, at your table by clever, talented and sometimes very funny cooks. Clapping and tipping are accepted when you especially enjoy the show he puts on.

Of course, if you don't travel with a large party and are anti-social you may not like the set-up, because all seats at a table are filled--within a reasonable amount of time--before the cooking begins. That's right, you may be sharing a table with complete strangers! Though it might sound weird, the truth is that you'll most likely have fun. I have had great fun every time I've been there.

Favorite Dish: My favorite dish depends on my mood. However, I always order hot Sake to drink and a spicy Tijuana Roll appetizer. Usually I have Teriyaki chicken or one of the shrimp dishes.

Photo Courtesy of a kind and generous Yubert!

Address: 5477 Camino Del Rio South

Comparison: about average

Directions: 5On the south side of I-8 at Hotel Circle.

Other Contact: http://www.benihana.com/location

Phone: (619) 298-4666

Price: US$21-30

Rating: 5

Theme: Japanese/Sushi

Website: http://www.benihana.com