Urbanist Guide


3 Meals & a Bar

Each month we ask one of our favorite San Diegans the question:

If you only had 24 hours to show a friend the best that urban San Diego has to offer, where would you take them?


Rafter Roberts

  Musician and Producer, Asthmatic Kitty, rafterroberts.wordpress.com/
Live: University Heights (my favorite part of town!) • Work: Kensington • How long: 12 years

Breakfast: Oh man!  It would be hitting up the Sunday Farmer's Market in the Hillcrest DMV parking lot for some tamales. There's this one lady who makes the best tamales I've EVER HAD (sorry mom.) Plus you can pick up some good produce for cooking during the week and some beaaaauuutiful flowers.

Lunch: The original El Zarape on Park Ave, just about anything from there is a delight and their salsa bar is simple but PERFECT. If my imaginary friend was in the mood for margaritas as well, the new El Zarape on Adams Ave has amazing soy ceviche tostadas and a great house margarita. My wife and I love Zarape so much that they did our wedding food... mmmmmm....
 
Dinner: we'd head to The Station in South Park, and chow some spicy black bean burgers and sweet potato fries that my trumpeter J Crane cooked up for us!   We'd have a couple drinks and enjoy the awesome architecture. Plus, it's right next to my favorite spot for dancing in SD.
 
Bar: The Whistlestop has my favorite DJs and dancing in town, cheap good drinks, and a non-stuffy vibe that just feels nice and homey. The Casbah, Soda Bar and The Tin Can have some great live music, great drinks,  and friendly folks there, too. I think that San Diego is really blossoming right now and I'm super happy to be able to be here to enjoy and participate!  The night would have to end up at Starlite, enjoying a perfect cocktail and superb ambiance. 


Rafter Roberts

Greg Koch

  CEO and Co-Founder, Stone Brewing, Stone Brewing World Bistro & Garden, stonebrew.com/
Live: East Village • Work: The Stone Brewing Co. / Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens is in Escondido • How long: 10 years
My personal rule is "no commodity / industrial meat." This means that unless I know that a bar or restaurant chooses ethically-raised meats, I'll choose vegetarian. Besides, it's not like people need even 1/10th of the meat our society eats, so I don't mind. Among the many benefits, this drives me to places with excellent vegetarian choices and non-industrial meat philosophies. Not surprisingly, places that focus that much on their food choices, tend to also serve some of the best dishes you can get in our region.
 
Breakfast: My typical breakfast is my pot of homemade french press coffee. Strong. Very Strong. Ryan Bros. Broadway Blues is my primary choice. However, I'm going to do more for my good-friend-from-out-of-town than pour them strong cups of coffee. Presumably, we were out drinking local craft beer until late the night before, so I'll take them to enjoy the unique and restorative character of downtown San Diego's famous Pokez Restaurant. Chips, salsa and a vegetarian chimichurri. Belly now = bigtime full.
 
Lunch:  Well, it goes without saying that after filling up on hearty punk rock tinged vegetarian mexican fare at Pokez after an out-too-late night before (and since the Urbanist Guide made us actually get up for breakfast instead of just sleeping through it), the next order of business was crashing out for a digestive nap. Now that we're up, we walk from Parkloft up to Broadway, catch the #2 bus to Hamiltons. No food yet, we need a beer. And not just any beer. We need an amazing San Diego brewed beer, and Hammies is gonna provide one of the best selections you can find. Perfect. The afternoon is definitely starting to look up, and we're getting hungry. No, I mean HUNGRY. Time to grab the #2 again and head up 30th to Sea Rocket Bistro for some artfully prepared day-catch, and another great San Diego craft beer. Or maybe The Linkery for their grilled ginger green beans, a "I never knew that part of the cow could taste so good...glad to know it's a grass-fed cow" item, and another great San Diego craft beer. Come to think of it, maybe we're in the mood for the signature Shepard's Pie at Ritual Tavern and, you guessed it, another great San Diego craft beer. Yeah, I know, life's full of rough choices.

Dinner: Off to Neighborhood. Gotta show my buddy my favorite hang spot. Great bartenders (I think I've secretly fallen in love with every single woman that works there), awesome creative food, and...wait for it...an amazing selection of great craft beer. We're just here for a warm-up beer, and an appetizer. Then it's off to Masala on 5th Ave., my favorite Indian Restaurant. Amazing flavors and awesome vegetarian food. Pair that with a draft Stone IPA, and I'm in heaven!

Bar: Finally, it's over to Quality Social for a little quality spectating and some more tasty beer. Hell, maybe even some active participation. Just sayin'. No promises ladies...I'm hangin' with my best bud from outta town after all. Gotta get the quality beer time in with my bro. Besides, I've got a full belly and I've had WAY more beer today than average...even for this pro....
 
Greg Koch
Live: Crest, California • Work: My home studio on the mountain and my beach studio on the La Jolla Cove • How long: I've lived in San Diego my whole life.
Breakfast: Janet's Cafe in El Cajon, on Greenfield and Main. A Mom and Pop I have been eating at for over 15 years. So many good options with great service and patio seating.

Lunch: The Bull and Bear in La Jolla,Ca. My Studio (The Cave) lunch spot for Coronas and Blue Cheese Burgers, "The Blue Chip". They  just moved locations from Prospect to Girard. Great service and patio seating

Dinner: Tao, on Adams Ave. "Hot Chef" from Dao Son fame opened a 2nd restaurant with an upgraded amazing menu. I have been eating Eric's food for over 10 years. 

Bar: Lahaina Beach House in Pacific Beach. I rarely frequent bars these days since I got a lot of my partying out as a youngster, but I had to pick Lahaina as one of my favorites. Location Location Location. And following with the theme, another patio seating with one of the best views in the world.  Right on the boardwalk in Pacific Beach looking out over The Pacific Ocean. Can't beat it.
Mike Maxwell

Claire Caraska

  DJ, DJ Claire, yodjclaire.com
Live: Golden Hill • Work: Downtown • How long: 8 years

BREAKFAST: A cozy, friendly neighborhood spot, Mystic Mocha is tiny but its menu is HUGE – tasty egg dishes (scrambles, wraps, chilaquiles), pancakes and some of the most amazing homemade baked goods. I crave their scones – perfectly golden triangles of melt-in-your-mouth, moist goodness – and huge muffins, which come in a variety of inventive flavor combinations (chocolate chip banana coconut is a favorite). I stick with regular coffee (brewed from local Cafe Moto beans) though their drink menu is as extensive as the food (over 25 different mochas!).

LUNCH: Meat may reign supreme here, but vegetarians and vegans can also fall in love with The Kebab Shop. I can’t resist the lamb döner kebab and salmon kebab plate, though the falafel, hummus, and fresh salads (from minted orzo zucchini and Algerian eggplant to tabouli and cucumber dill) also vie for my attention. Don’t forget to grab an “after döner” mint on the way out to combat the oh-so-deliciously strong garlic yogurt sauce.

DINNER: Jayne’s Gastropub serves up delectable dishes, an extensive beer and wine list and modern twists on classic cocktails. It also has one of the best outdoor patios for enjoying long, leisurely meals with friends and loved ones. Despite the restaurant’s urban surroundings, sitting on that patio makes me feel like I’m in a French country garden. The menu gets tweaked to highlight seasonal produce; can’t-fail staple entrees include fish and chips, steak frites, and the burger. For appetizers, don’t miss the white bean crostini and gambas al ajillo.

BAR: Too many to choose from, and it all depends on my mood. When I want classic kitsch and old-school cocktails (with live piano players on select nights), I head to the Red Fox Room or Imperial House. For a laidback afternoon beer, I park it at the Whistle Stop, where happy hour lasts until 8 every day, or Hamilton’s Tavern, the city’s king of beer. And Counterpoint for a good glass of wine in my favorite ‘hood.

Claire Caraska

Brooke Burt

  Promoter and Artist Managment, Indigenous Promotions, indigenouspromotions.com/
Live: North Park • Work: North Park • How long: 5 years

BREAKFAST: Cafe on Park. I'm a big bruncher and this place is one of my favorites. I have yet to try anything there I don't like. The mashed potatoes are amazing! The menu reminds me of Hash House A Go Go, but smaller portions. I just wish you could sit outside.

LUNCH: The Prado at Balboa Park. It's nice to go here before or after a stroll around the park. They have a lovely patio and the lunch menu is easier on the pocket book.

DINNER: Starlite. Love the vibe there. This is a great place to come for cocktails before catching a show at The Casbah. I highly recommend the Starlite Colonel. The food is local, organic and delicious. I always bring out-of-towners from big cities here. They love it!

BAR: Live Wire. I like this bar because there it's easy to fly under the radar. It's perfectly divey, they have a nice beer selection and the bartenders pour a strong drink. Plus, they have one of the best juke boxes in town. An honorable mention goes to Blue Foot for the best place to hang during the day. Ask Mikey to make you a Moscow Mule, but be careful not to drink too many because they will sneak up on you.

 

Brooke Burt

Matt Molarius

  Co-Owner and Musician, Obscure Magpie Music, Transfer, store2.bandfarm.com/transfer/
Live: Golden Hill • Work: Golden Hill • How long: 4 years
Breakfast: Even though we're talking about the San Diego vibe, I always feel transported a bit when I go to Café Chloe in East Village. French Bistro style spot with super great food, friendly service and a nice atmosphere. On a nice day outdoor seating is a good idea.  

Lunch: Station Tavern in South Park has a great afternoon atmosphere as well.  Good beer selection and a damn fine burger - Not to mention, they serve tots for the Napoleon Dynamite in that lies within.  This spot is perfect for the frustrated parent, as they have a fenced playground next to the outdoor seating area. Mom and Dad can grab a beer with lunch while the kids run crazy in the corral.

Dinner: Hard to pick, but my top choice has to be Cucina Urbana... or Avenue 5... or Starlite... DAMN!  Well, we can just go with the first but I love them all.  Cucina Urbana has a killer menu and a nice selection of wines that you can get up and actually shop for. The interior design of the place is art at it's best and the service is great.  

Bar: I would top the night off with a show at The Casbah.The rock and roll vibe is quite present and the history is legendary. It's just the right spot to get caught off guard by an amazing band you may not have known. All about the live music here but has the old school Atari Lounge in back for the nostalgic. Quality live music is the name of the game and you can bet that's what you'll get.

 
Matt Molarius

MayStar

  Indie fashion show producer & electro club night promoter Musician/Songwriter from the duo - MAYSTAR, MayStar Parties and MayStar Designs, maystarparties.com
Live: Golden Hill • Work: Hillcrest and North Park • How long: 7 years

BREAKFAST:  If it's payday, I recommend the Westgate Hotel's Champagne Sunday Brunch for $42. Walking into the Westgate Hotel makes you feel like you've stepped into the Versailles Palace, or at least Sofia Coppola's Marie Antoinette movie. The brunch is a huge buffet that doesn't taste even slightly related to buffet food. They serve you unlimited champagne, fresh squeezed orange juice, and coffee. For food, my favorites are the caprese salad, haricots vert, fruit and berries, made to order crepes, and the antipasti board. Others might be attracted to the made-to-order omelet or sushi bar. They also have an incredibly huge array of fancy seafood items and shooters. Their display also includes an ice sculpture and a big chocolate fountain with marshmallow, strawberry, and pineapple kebabs for dipping. For those on more of a budget, Sunday brunch at Lei Lounge is equally as good with inventive $3 champagne cocktails & bloody marys. The atmosphere of Lei Lounge will make you feel like you are on vacation in Palm Springs mixed with Hawaii. The Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps are the best thing you'll ever taste, even if you want nothing to do with "Thai food." The breakfast quesadillas are great as well. They also have an amazing dinner menu if you end up getting so drunk that you decide to stay there past 4pm when brunch ends.

 

LUNCH:  Krakatoa has the best sandwiches in all of San Diego– not to mention one of the prettiest hidden tropical tree-shaded patios.  Two of their best sandwiches also happen to be vegetarian: The 3 Fingered Jack with pepper jack cheese, avocado, red onion, tomatoes, and so on, and The La Palma with roasted red pepper spread, red pepper slices, and other fresh vegetables. The potato salad that comes with the sandwiches is to die for. I normally despise potato salad and yet theirs is one of my all-time favorite foods. For meat-eaters, I recommend The Ubehebe sandwich with turkey, cranberries, and cream cheese.

 

DINNER: Cafe Chloe is the perfect little dinner spot reminiscent of an upscale sidewalk cafe in Paris. At night, the candles and warm low-lighting really make the place. The most important thing to order is a glass of their Lavender Lemonade, if not a Lavender Lemonade Mismosa as well.  Their Steak with Pommes Frites is amazing, as are their cheese plates. Or you can go to Turf Club, which has amazing steaks that you cook yourself for less than $8.

 

BAR: Before you go out anywhere, it's always best to head to happy hour at Ruby Room which has really strong $2 or $3 drinks from 6pm-9pm. After that, Voyeur on the right Thursday night throws one of San Diego's best electro dance parties. Tin Can Ale House is a great little dive bar with bands if you are not the dancing type. Whistle Stop is good most any night of the week, and Starlite is a good bar to hide out at. Beauty Bar can also be a really fun place to dance at when Gabe Vega is DJing. 

MayStar

Elizabeth Studebaker

  Director of North Park Main Street, representing over 500 small, local businesses surrounding the University Avenue & 30th Street corridor, northparkmainstreet.com
Live: North Park • Work: North Park • How long: 10 years

BREAKFAST: While not a big breakfast eater, I love a good cup of coffee. Best in town is Caffe Calabria on 30th Street; I buy the French Roast in bulk. When dining out for real breakfast its at The Mission. They are consistent, affordable, and so yummy. Love the tamales.

LUNCH: The pozole rojo at El Comal has the most beautiful flavor and warmth– it's tough to describe. El Comal is a Mexican comfort food spot, family-owned and operated. Urban Solace, right around the corner, makes a mean Burger served with Sweet Potato Fries. Also, the Arugula, Endive n' Radicchio Salad is an amazing start to any meal. Urban Solace has a dedicated and welcoming crew who make every visit special.  

DINNER: Where farm-to-table meets urban living, The Linkery has given us hope that San Diego can be a sophisticated, enviro conscious city. The great food, simple design and open air corner spot on 30th Street make it a draw for many. My favorite combo is whatever seasonal salad is on the menu with a daily spicy link. Beers are always delish. Jayne's Gastropub is a great date destination, the atmosphere is beyond charming. The Fish & Chips and Braised Beef Short Ribs are my top recommendations, but the menu is packed with superb culinary decisions. Everything is fabulous! 

BAR: Toronado for great beer & Bar Pink for great music. Depends on whose playing and what kind of mood we're in. 

 

 

Elizabeth Studebaker

Jackson Nathan Milgaten

  Co-Owner/Operator - Single Screen Records ; Musician/Songwriter - The Vision of a Dying World, The Paddle Boat, Cuckoo Chaos, singlescreenrecords.com
Live: South Park • Work: Golden Hill & Kensington • How long: 5 years
BREAKFAST:  Cafe on Park is definitely one of the best brunch spots I have ever been to.  It's pretty traditional breakfast and lunch stuff but they do everything so well.  The crab cake benedict is unreal!  I would highly recommend it.  I also need to express some love for the "Bluegrass Brunch" at Urban Solace every Sunday.  They offer much less variety but they totally  own every item on their menu and add a little more flair to their dishers.  Get a Bloody Mary at either one and you will thank yourself (both places have full bars so it's not that Soju stuff)!
 
LUNCH:  Jyoti-Bihanga offers excellent vegetarian and vegan cuisine at affordable prices.  They do all kinds of mock sandwiches from BLT's to Ruebens to their famous Neatloaf as well as a ton of fantastic soups, salads, wraps and full entrées.  The atmosphere is serene and calming and all of the staff belong to some sort of new-agish peace/love cult/commune.  How could you go wrong?
 
DINNER:  It wouldn't really be a good culinary representation of San Diego without some Mexican food and La Fachada is possibly the best I've had.  It's basically a taco stand with a huge tent attached to it in the middle of Logan Heights.  They have a kettle of hot beans out and peppers and onions on a grill that are complimentary with your meal.  FYI inside the restaurant behind it there's a Mortal Kombat 3 machine.  The perfect end to a perfect day! 
 
BAR:  Despite the fact that I have worked there for the last 3 years, the Turf Club is still my favorite bar in the city.  It's blend of old school charm and modern dive attitude is irresistible to me.  I have always felt extremely comfortable in there ever since my first visit several years ago as a patron.  The cook-it-yourself kitsch  has made the place a landmark, but the bar is really what holds it together for me.  The bartenders are some of the best in town and they pour em' as stiff as anyone in their right mind should want a drink.
Jackson Nathan Milgaten

Troy Johnson

  Senior Editor (Culinary, Art & Culture), RIVIERA Magazine, twitter.com/troymjohnson
Live: Golden Hill • Work: East Village • How long: 31 years

BREAKFAST:  Walk by the line of grumbling people who smell like last night’s booze at the Hash House. Then walk right into the Tractor Room where it’s essentially the same food without the wait. Order a Highlander (a bloody mary made with Scotch… sounds disgusting, tastes like Jesus) and Andy’s House Sage Fried Chicken Benedict. It’s a massive mountain of cheese and fried clucker—served with a defibrillator and two pills of Lipitor. Share this with your entire table. No reason to order anything else unless you’re eating with Michael Phelps and Kobayashi.
 
LUNCH:  A tour of real Mexican food on University Ave. First, order the Gobernator taco (grilled shrimp, veggies, corn tortilla, cheese) at the Marisco’s German taco truck on the corner of 32nd and University. Comes with a complimentary spicy tomato soup with cilantro and a shrimp head whose tentacles stick out of the Styrofoam cup like the little sucker died trying to escape. Then, three blocks down, Super Cocina—where a line of Mexican mamas cook some of the best moles, enchiladas, etc. Place looks scary—like eating there may do harm to internal organs. But it’s where S.D.’s top chefs eat in their off time. They get their seafood fresh from World Famous Seafood (super fresh), and they serve goat and other wild and crazy anti-gringo meats. The recipes change every day—regulars can call ahead and ask the mamas to make a favorite for the next day. The owner will give you a taste of everything before you buy.
 
DINNER:  Quality Social. I know the flack it’s getting. “They’re trying to be an ‘upscale dive’—that’s so contrived and bullshit!” But, really, it’s just a casual bar, the owners are good dudes, and the chef is pretty goddamn good. He’s won a James Beard Award and turned down Top Chef to open this restaurant. It’s bar food, done gourmet. Instead of chicken wings, he does duck wings in harissa sauce. He also is house-making hot dogs—one topped with cheese and short rib chili, the other the famous Chicago dog (chef is from Chicago, where he was labeled “the sausage king of Chicago”). And the house-made charcuterie (cured meats)—the soppressata and Spanish chorizo are killer.
 
BAR:  A mini-tour. First I’d go high-class at Grant Grill. The guy is making arguably the best cocktails in town right now with small-batch spirits (Old Tom Gin, Devils’ Door White Whiskey, etc.) and crazy farmer’s market mixes. Example: The Dragon’s Eye: Rock Sake, house-made dragon eye fruit puree, coconut water, fresh lime). Then I’d go for an Old-Fashioned at Noble Experiment (make reservations way ahead of time). Keep in mind that Noble is not a place for bottle service, Jaeger bombs or calling waitresses “sweetie.” Then I’d finish at Starlite for a Moscow Mule in the brass goblet that you’ll be tempted to steal but you won’t because you’re not a jerk. After that I take my liver out and soak it overnight in a glass of acai juice.

Troy Johnson

Jenny Kondrasky

  Co-founder, Commune Wednesdays, jointhecommune.com
Live: North Park • Work: Mission Hills • How long: 3.5 years

BREAKFAST: I am not a huge breakfast person, but sometimes after a night out or a hungry weekend morning, a Ray’s breakfast burrito sure hits the spot.

LUNCH: Grant’s Marketplace in South Park or Mona Lisa in Little Italy. Both have amazing sandwiches. My favorites are the turkey on rosemary olive oil bread from Grant’s or the Proscuitto from Mona Lisa’s.

DINNER: Station Tavern in South Park. I am definitely a fat kid at heart, so anytime I can enjoy a good burger and fries I am there. The full bar, outside area, and the fact that it is in walking distance of my house are also major pluses.

BAR: Bluefoot and Bar Pink in North Park, Whistlestop in South Park and the Casbah for live music. Since the foot is the closest to my house though I would definitely have to say that’s my most frequented. Week nights and weekend days have the best local crowd. Everyone should try a “Mule” or a “Grandma Dolores” (just kidding Mikey) it’s really a  “St. Doras.”

Jenny Kondrasky
Live: We live in a spaceship party bus hovering 100 feet over San Diego. • Work: Cats from space don't work. • How long: 7,329.25 zrcats

BREAKFAST: Tobey's 19th hole because we love to romp in the green fields after a plentiful breakfast.

LUNCH: Luigi's.   The best in the galaxy for a slice of green olive pizza and perhaps a Duchesse de Bourgogne.

DINNER: Small Bar. Us cats dig their fish and chips and plentiful beers.

BAR: Tin Can Ale House. A great hangout, bumpin' music, and shows that are out of this world, dig?

Stay urban!

Zoltron Monsieur and Kittytron Churro

Lion Cut
Live: North Park • Work: La Mesa (Guitar Center) and DJ all over SD • How long: 8 years
BREAKFAST: Ranchos:  Soy Chorizo w/ Black Beans and whole wheat tortillas w/ fresh salsa.  I'm addicted, I get it every time. 
 
LUNCH:  I like family run businesses so for lunch I go to Fatboy's Deli on University.  It's close to my house so I can bike or skate.  Great people work there and the conversations are always fun.  They help me stay away from fried foods.  The veggie sandwich really does it for me, I'm trying to watch my figure if you know what I mean.  Fatboy's really warms up the community.
 
DINNER:  I'm a big pizza fan so I go to Sicilian Thing Pizza because it's fresh (you watch them make it) and they offer veggie slices.  Super friendly place, the employees call you by your first name and treat you like a King or Queen.  Great place to see North Park's community interaction.
The best part about living in North Park is you get to see the diversity of businesses and the people.  The freaks come out at night!
 
BAR:  U31 is my favorite because I've DJ'ed there since back when it was Buster Daly's.  I shot my second video (DeepRooted "crazy") there which by the way has been in constant rotation on MTYU for the last 3 months (shameless plug).  U31 has a kitchen with killer fish and chips and 20 flat screens.  I'm DJing there every Thursday night www.GenerationsParty.com  My second favorite would be Bar Pink, the people are great, drinks strong and the hipsters love them some DJArtistic.  I'm DJ'ing there on the first Friday of every month.
 
I love North Park!
DJ Artistic
Live: South Park • Work: North Park • How long: 8 years
BREAKFAST:  The Mission- Zen Breakfast.  So rad.
 
LUNCH:  Mama's Bakery Lebanese Deli- Get the Manakeesh Ultimate and add falafel.  Such a great find.
 
DINNER: Kensington Cafe.  Rad place to go have a beer and hang out.  They have an awesome breakfast and lunch as well, but their tapas totally kill it.... really cheap.  They also have s'mores that you make at the table.
 
BAR:  The last time I had an out of the ordinary experience at a bar was at the Whisknladle in La Jolla.  Some friends and I started chatting with the bartender about all the unique vodka infusions.  He ended up bringing out all his top secret experiments from the back.  "Alcohol Art" would be the best way to describe it I guess.
Kelsey Brookes

Michael Soriano

  Owner, Onairos Design, onairosdesign.com/
Live: North Park • Work: North Park • How long: 24 years
BREAKFAST:  The Big Kitchen.  Tree Huggin' and peace lovin', this quaint little throwback to the 60's seems better suited in the Haight (Ashbury), then in South Park.  The owner and self proclaimed "Judy, the beauty on duty", serves up side splitting comic relief with yummy plates of biscuits and gravy that are the perfect comfort food for either a cold rainy day or a Sunday morning hangover.  Throw it over the top by adding two over easy eggs, grilled onions and several strips of bacon (piled high on one plate, of course) and you're promptly headed back home for an afternoon nap.
 
LUNCH:  The outside patio of C Level.  Two words:  Lobster Nirvana.  The Lobster BLT served with the oh so creamy and "definitely not on my diet" Lobster Bisque is the perfect pairing that is only slightly out shadowed by the amazing bay front view looking back to the city.  It's the perfect place to bring mom or guests from outta town.
 
DINNER:  Little Sheep Mongolian Hot Pot in Clairemont Mesa.  Similar to traditional Japanese "Shabu Shabu", this SPICY SOUP is made up of over 32 Chinese medical restorative herbs and reportedly 3 different bone marrows (which animals, I cannot say).  Diners then choose from an array of meats and veggies (baby bok choy and oyster mushrooms are my fave) and throw them all in the pot to cook right at your table.  It's a great place to go with a large group and the huge caldron of bubbling, boiling broth also adds an element of danger that certainly adds even more spice to the evening!
 
BAR:  If I wanna get my ASS KICKED, I head over to Starlite for their famous (and potentially brain damaging) Mules.  Otherwise, Sunday's Beer Bust @ The Hole (OK, get your mind outta da gutter) in Point Loma gets a little crazy.  Packed elbow to elbow at this infamous dive, you'll find big manly "BEARS" (and an occasional, daring "real" lady)  all downing copious amounts of $6.00 pitchers of beer while rocking out to a DJ spinning everything from classic Bowie to Boston and Black Sabbath to Blondie.  Finish off the evening on the patio with one of their made to order greasy double, double decker "macho" avocado burgers and you're in HOG heaven!
Michael Soriano

Jennifer Luce

  Owner / Architect, Luce Et Studio, lucestudio.com
Live: La Jolla • Work: Rose Canyon • How long: 7 years

BREAKFAST: If I actually carve out time for breakfast, I want it to be an experience; a moment to set the tone for the day and leave with a shared energy…I have 2 choices; depending on the mood. Of course, everyone’s sentimental favorite; Café Chloe for the poached eggs with mushrooms and sage beurre blanc; reminds me of my hometown of Montreal.  And then, Extraordinary Desserts (I know; you think that’s because we designed it) but, Karen’s Sunday European Breakfast is Paris at its best; a place to linger and savor and enjoy friends.

LUNCH: I love stopping at Pappalecco in Little Italy for a Panini, café and a small indulgence of gelato to send me on my way. The place feels like Milano; always full of chic patrons at the sidewalk tables. You stay for a delicious taste and as the Milanese do; you’re off in a flash to your next meeting. The friendly sophistication expressed by owners Lorenzo and Francesco reminds me of the simplicity that makes a good meal perfect in Italy.

DINNER: Tracy Borkum has given us a gem in Cucina Urbana. Close to the ‘park’, it removes us from grit of the city but is, oh, so urbane. The food transcends “Italian” to become something that she and chef Joe Magnanelli should bottle…..the retail wine concept makes so much sense..I leave each visit with a case of my new favorite vino at a great price. Ben Kephart knows his ‘cave’ and knows how to help you buy wine!

Jennifer Luce

Edwin Negado

  Blends Manager, blogger, edwinhimself.com
Live: Barrio Logan • Work: East Village • How long: 5 years
BREAKFASTInflux Cafe is definitely my favorite morning hideaway. I keep it pretty simple for breakfast; a Cranberry Muffin and an Earl Grey tea pretty much keeps me satisfied until lunch. Their Croissant Melts are good for those Saturday mornings after a long Friday night. Free WiFi and good music to go with your breakfast is always a plus too!

LUNCH
Pokez in the East Village has some of the best Mexican food in town. Their vegetarian/vegan friendly menu gets pretty deep; so your options of finding something you like are pretty good. I highly recommend their ‘Tofu, Potato and Mushroom’ Burrito. Their free chips and salsa starters are also a real treat.

DINNERPizzeria Luigi in Golden Hill is by far the best place to get pizza in San Diego. Their slices are almost too good that people sometimes forget that they offer some great pasta dishes as well. If their slices don’t fill you up, their Puttanesca plate definitely will.

BAR
: The kind folks from Skull Kontrol put on some really cool shindigs at the Whistle Stop Bar in South Park. If you're in Downtown, you should definitely check out El Dorado and Bar 923.
Edwin Negado

Ron Miriello

  Owner, Miriello Grafico, miriellografico.com
Live: Coronado • Work: Barrio Logan • How long: 20 years

BREAKFAST: Since we moved our studios to Barrio Logan a few years ago, I’ve been scoping out the hidden gems over here. And there are many. Latte Mi Corazon makes latin-style coffee drinks and pasteries. They roast their own beans. They turned a nothing little house into a place of love and warmth. Gotta support that effort.  129 25th St.San Diego, CA 92102

LUNCH:  Darband Fifth Avenue Grill. Love this place for lunch. Kinda like a guys-club. Mideastern soccer on the TV, taxi drivers hangin out and great skewers. The food of Bandar at the prices of The Kebab Shop.
  
DINNER:  Cucina Urbana- Tracy Borkum has it dialed in. The pasta isn’t there yet. But the pizza is close to Italy and the wine presentation and vibe are right on.

BAR: I’ve rediscovered Mister A’s. The view from that place at dusk is pure San Diego. And it’s not the obvious choice. Ask them to make you a Negroni Cocktail, with gin, sweet vermouth and Campari bitters. They do it right.


Ron Miriello

Saul Q

  Dj/Promoter, facebook.com/saulq1
Live: Northpark • Work: All over • How long: 7 years
BREAKFAST: Cafe on Park. I usually get one of their scrambles with crispy 
potatoes. I'll convince my breakfast partner to get the French Toast so we
can switch plates half way through. You are going to want a giant jar of
iced coffee to wash it all down. And don't forget about the complimentary
Bazooka Bubble gum when you leave!


LUNCH: Las Cuatro Milpas or the Mariscos Truck on Imperial.
Since I used to work in Barrio Logan, I like to keep it "Hood."
DINNER: El Camino in South Park.
Great decor, tangy salads, Rajas Tacos and a big cup of Street Corn paired
with a traditional Michelada in a boot mug to kick off the night.
BAR: You can catch me djing at any of these bars over the weekend: u31,
Whistlestop, and El Dorado. Always good music, dancing and of
course...drinks!
Saul Q

Lou Mora

  Photographer, loumora.com
Live: South Park • Work: Everywhere • How long: 8 years
BREAKFAST: Any of the Mission's are great (North Park, East Village etc.).  Parkhouse Eatery is good too (chorizo and eggs) in University Heights. 
 
LUNCH: Check out Blue Water on India. Get yourself a healthy blackened swordfish sandwich and some not so healthy (but delicious) waffle fries. If you're downtown check out Tin Fish. Make sure to get the chips. They are the best in town.

DINNER: I'm loving Blind Lady Ale House in Normal Heights. It's casual, has great food, and amazing beer. I also love Starlite on India St. Great atmosphere... Check it out on Tuesday when they create a 3 course dinner for $20.00 - Such a great deal. If you need something sweet afterwards, go check out the Daily Scoop in South Park. They have great ice cream and the most amazing Red Velvet cupcakes.

BAR: The Whistle Stop in South Park and Bluefoot in North Park. Get a Makers and Ginger and sit back and enjoy...

Lou Mora

Greg Strangman

  Owner LWP group: the Pearl, Community, etc., lwpgroup.com
Live: Ocean Beach • Work: Gaslamp • How long: 16 years
BREAKFAST: Hash House or Tractor Room. Is there any other comparable?  Hillcrest. 
 
LUNCH: Neighborhood in the East Village or Influx in Golden Hill. Tough call. Probably Neighborhood and a afternoon coffee at Influx.           

DINNER: Café Chloe, always solid food and great East Village atmosphere and service. Perfect bistro experience.

BAR: Early drinks by the pool at the Pearl Hotel, then Starlite for a middle night drink, finish at El Dorado with DJ Ratty on the decks. Need a driver of course. Safety First.
Greg Strangman

Jules Wilson

  Owner, Design Director, Jules Wilson Interior Design, juleswilson-id.com
Live: La Jolla • Work: East Village • How long: 12 years

BREAKFAST:  The Tractor Room, for a dark - left over from last night vibe, this place is the spot.  Not necessarily a low cal option, but for a nice hardy start to your weekend morn, it's a great place to meet up with friends, have a Bloody Mary, and exchange stories from last night's events.  The butter biscuits are a must!!   

LUNCH:  I’d have to say Café Chloe, or as my studio jokes “the cafeteria”.   Café Chloe is a block away from work and a true blessing to the East Village.  It’s a quaint and delightful French bistro with consistently tasty daily specials, cheese plates that make me gaiety, and a generally friendly staff.  On special occasions I go for their dangerously delicious mac and cheese, might be the best in town. 
 
DINNER: Cucina Urbana The atmosphere can be a little loud for conversation, but it has a good upbeat energy.  Their Italian cuisine feels part creative and part authentic, but either way it works, I love their seasonal fig pizza.  Wine selection here is a unique experience, you actually pick the bottle yourself right from their display shelves.  For those of us who select by the label (oh of course I would never do that), this is a perfect setup. 

BAR: That’s a tough one right now, don’t have a favorite spot.  I like the urban underground garden vibe at Syrah, there’s always something nice about finding a hidden door at the bottom of a staircase.  I also like the haunted mansion with real time cameras theme at Voyeur

Jules Wilson
Live: Golden Hill • Work: Barrio Logan • How long: 11 years

BREAKFAST:  Head to Influx Cafe for their amazing scones, muffins and minimal decor... perfect for just waking up

LUNCH:  If you're in the mood for some serious authentic mexican head to Las Cuatro Milpas in Barrio Logan... Little bit of a line but worth every second 

DINNER:  The Turf Club in Golden Hill is always a rock solid staple... How can you go wrong with vintage track decor, piano bar and a smoking hot grill

BAR:  The Casbah in Little Italy... Always a rockin show. Bring your earplugs and turn it up to eleven

 

Matt Devine
Live: Bankers Hill • Work: Barrio Logan • How long: 3.5 years
while the incredible "San Diego House Parties" series is no longer...Heather is still very much a part of the SD music scene.

BREAKFAST: Pokez because I like my tofu mushroom potato tacos with a side of server attitude. The staff may not be the friendliest but their array of food has some gems and doesn't break the bank.

LUNCH: Few things in life are better than finding the perfect sandwich. And when you find one, you have to do it justice by providing the best setting to experience it in. The Roasted Turkey Sandwich at Mona Lisa Deli was the reason I sought out and found a little slice of Balboa Park heaven to eat it in. The super fresh delicious rolls holding some of the finest deli turkey, provolone and oil and vinegar deserves a picnic in Balboa on a sunny day with a hidden bottle of wine in your basket (and a bunch of napkins).   
 
DINNER: Wine specials and great paninis? Sign me up! Enoteca Style is a perfect place for wine and beer enthusiasts who love delicious salads, pannins, bruschetta and desserts for all tastes.        
 
BAR: If I have a friend coming in to San Diego and I want to give them a clear idea of San Diego's uber friendly, compulsive hugging, "No Bad Day Bro" party vibe I roll out to Universal . No only do they serve big strong drinks but there is a massive amount of space (outdoor patio with fire pit included) comfortably filled with the greatest people in our city; gay, straight, men and women. Ok my hangover from partying there last night is just now wearing off but if you want great DJ's to spin the soundtrack to one of the best dance parties of your life, go to Universal!
Heather Adams
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