1.
Turf Supper Club – Who doesn’t love a good grill-your-own supper club. I love sitting at the bar: dim lights, black and white movies, a great jukebox, and serious cocktails. The first time I went I ordered a Chernobyl cocktail and when I ordered a second one with a little less vodka, the bartender said, “Every ingredient in that drink is booze. If you want less vodka, I’m putting in more of something else.” Then I called a cab.
2.
Luigi’s Pizzeria – Being a Jersey girl, I made a great effort to find a decent thin crust pizza when I moved to San Diego. (I’m serious, my husband and I tried probably 30-40 pizzerias). Luigi’s is tops. Thin crust, tangy sauce, and they usually have a white pizza with spinach that I happily drive across town for.
3.
The Influx Café – Famous for its sandwiches and its baked goods (the cupcakes! the cupcakes!), the Influx is a haven for the cool kids in the neighborhood to take their Macbooks out for the afternoon and grab a coffee. I personally love the tuna melt bagel and any of the cupcakes with cream cheese frosting. My friend and frequent lunch date here says the tofu sandwich is the best in the world.
4.
Counterpoint – This little tavern has a very individual/eclectic design and a pretty simple, but great menu (including fried bologna). They have a wine or beer for everyone and I am told that their mini cupcakes paired with a bottle of red is the perfect way to end a Friday afternoon.