BREAKFAST: When I’m not making my own Aged Cheddar and Sausage Skillets on my terrace, my wife and I like to hit up The Mission for their French Toast, the one breakfast dish I never really mastered. It’s a 5-minute walk from my place. But they do it so well, it’s worth the trip downtown if you don't live there. They do some good Mexican-inspired breakfast dishes as well. We always bring our visitors there. Only downside is they don't take reservations and if you don't get there early you will be waiting for quite some time on the street, which can be brutal if it's hot and you’re tired from the night before. Trust me, I've done it a few times...

 

LUNCH: Cafe Chloe is a very good spot for lunch, especially on the patio in nice weather. You can people watch while you eat some classic, high quality food. I would recommend all of their dishes – and you should get at least one course, as the portions can be small at times. This is understandable though, as the quality of their product is high. Definitely a must!

 

DINNER: You know I am just slightly biased on this one, but I truly speak from my heart when I say this: Grant Grill. In my opinion, downtown San Diego has a lot of restaurants that are close to being a bar or cafe. Others tend to be chain-like or touristy. The Grant Grill is unique. If you like to sit down to an amazing dining experience in a comfortable booth and you want some of the most knowledgeable and friendly service in town, it's a no-brainer. I think there have been misconceptions about it being expensive or that we have a dress code, but our popularity has grown exponentially this year, so assumptions must be changing. I would also say we have the best lounge and cocktail program as well, but then again I am probably even more biased on that one!

BAR: I like Searsucker for its innovation in cocktails. I like Prohibition, Syrah and Noble Experiment for the "underground" feel they have. I am a big believer in understanding the difference between a good bar and a good place to hang out. The places above are both. Most bars have friendly employees who pour you drinks you can easily make at home but you will be paying a lot more for it. I don't really believe in doing that. I think you should expect more knowledge and experience out of the establishments you go to.