BREAKFAST: I rarely eat breakfast out because I make such a mean bowl of cereal! When I do go out with guests, it's to eat French toast, chicken apple sausage, rosemary toast and potatoes at The Mission in North Park.

 

LUNCH: A perfect lunch combo would be a few $1 fish tacos from the Mariscos Germán truck on University and a fruit salad from a few blocks away at Frutilandia. For just a few bucks, you can get a pile of freshly chopped fruit topped with honey, raisins, coconut, granola and cottage cheese. It's eyes-roll-to-the-back-of-your-head good. While there, get one of their crunchy ceviche tostadas too. Another top option is the beef Manakeesh Ultimate Supreme from Mama's Bakery in North Park; it's Lebanese flatbread with beef, thyme, olive oil, sesame seeds, tomato, olives, mint and lebni. I guarantee it'll be the best thing you ate all day.

 

DINNER: El Zarape in University Heights is inexpensive, fast and delicious. I've filled up many an out of town guest here, as well as many frequent burrito-eater cards! Across the street is the unpretentious Savory Deli & Market, which serves simple and tasty dishes from Spain, France and Italy, all made with care. With great bread, pasta and quality meats on their sandwiches, you can't go wrong. I love their tomato, basil gnocchi and pasta with pancetta. And hey, if you want something a little more upscale, go down a block to Parkhouse Eatery.

 

BAR: My first time at Prohibition, it was like the planets aligned for the most enjoyable bar experience ever. Delicious, creative and strong drinks were worth every penny. The live band, the décor, the crowd – everything was just the way it should have been. I'm also a sucker for the playlist and the Alice in Wonderland vibe at downtown's Vin de Syrah. And who doesn't love to watch people fumbling around for a hidden door on closed circuit TV?