Sandwiched between Old Town and Hillcrest is one of my favorite neighborhoods in San Diego, Mission Hills. On a clear day, the homes built into the hills have views of downtown and the waterfront. They’ve also got a cluster of low key, high quality restaurants in a ring around the bottom of the hill worth checking out.
If you find yourself hungry and you’re near Washington and India, try any one of these:
Saffron - I had jury duty last summer and the whole time I sat in the big room waiting to get called, I was eavesdropping on two former residents of the UK. They were talking about how much they loved Saffron (and Shakespeare’s, obviously). They called it “chicken take away” but I call it excellent Thai food that won’t break the bank. If you bring in your own dish or reusable take out container, they’ll take 10% off your bill.
Lucha Libre - I profiled Lucha Libre once before in Urban Dish because this colorful taco shop is one of my favorites. If you want to confuse the chef, don’t order the Surfin’ Burrito, which was featured recently on Man vs. Food. I like the Queso Tacos and the wrestling masks.
Starlite - Starlite won the award for Best Restaurant/ Bar at URBANIST Guide’s 2010 release party. And even though I usually drive past it three times before I find it, I give it two very enthusiastic thumbs up. I enjoyed a couple of tasty Kir Royals here for my birthday last year and I’ve been a fan of their drink menu and commitment to Slow Food ever since.
Gelato Vero - Ask around about Gelato Vero and 50% of respondents will rave about the espresso while 50% will tell you their gelato is the best in town. I haven’t actually done a formal survey so don’t quote me, but I’m pretty sure I’m right. Sweet tooth or coffee tooth (is that a thing?) Gelato Vero is a must try.