If you’re into sandy beaches, warm weather, and world-class art, Southern California is the dream. And when you add in value for dollar, and top food, you have yourself a destination for a weekend or even a week. Because in San Diego, museums and gardens dominate the scene, with equal impact to golf courses and beaches. We would even say that it’s the element of diversity of activities and depth of world class facilities in San Diego that will keep you coming back. Think of it like peeling off another layer of what San Diego has to offer. So whether you have a young family or are a couple, this is your insider guide to San Diego restaurants and hotels.
A Note about the Recommendations
As with all our city guides, we take recommendations from the discerning traveler. At Galavante, this group is known as our network of Tastemakers. We have people in every corner of the world who are passionate about food and places to stay. Thanks to our network of Tastemakers, this is the insider guide to San Diego restaurants and hotels from one especially exceptional Tastemaker. Tina is a local, and knows her food and drink, not only here, but also across the globe a travel junkie. Therefore anything on this list of her guide to San Diego restaurants and hotels is going to be a home run.
San Diego Restaurants
Addison, for fine dining
Animae, for its scene
Bobboi, for its outstanding gelato
Buona Forchetta, for its coal, oven style pizza
Cowboy Star, for the best ribeye in San Diego
Callie, for the dips and chicken
Claire’s on Cedros, for brunch
Fish 101, for the Baja fish and Baja shrimp tacos
Hidden Fish, for high-quality fish
Himitsu, for a sushi lunch in La Jolla
Huntress, for a delicious meal
Kingfisher, for the spiny lobster tail
Matsu, for the A5 wagyu
Monzu, for a fresh pasta dish
Pete’s Seafood and Sandwich, for the best lobster roll in San Diego
Soichi, for its Michelin rating
VG Donuts, for the best donuts in San Diego
Waverly, for the perfect spot to share on Instagram
Wormwood, for the award-worthy sea urchin caviar
Wolf in the Woods, for the harissa octopus
San Diego Hotels
Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa
Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas
So, after reading up on the best San Diego restaurants and hotels, check out the rest of our city guides, including Charleston and Dallas.
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