San Diego, though not as popular of a beach vacay destination as Malibu or Cancun, has always been one of my favorite places to travel (and it just so happens to be a popular spot for my fellow Utahns). You can avoid the traffic and crowds of the more popular hotspots while enjoying lower prices, sprawling beaches, and my personal favorite, amazing local restaurants–just steps away from the ocean. If this sounds appealing to you and you’re the type (like me) that’s already looking forward to fall break, here’s a list of restaurants to put on your “must-visit” list.
1. Kono’s Cafe
This super popular Pacific Beach hnagout is a favorite amongst the locals… and the vacationers… and basically everyone in the area. So expect a bit of a wait! However, the $10 or less breakfast menu, featuring breakfast sandwiches, scrambles, and pancakes, is well worth it. Try visiting after 10 am to avoid the crowds.
TripAdvisor
2. Sushi Deli 1
This unassuming sushi hub is a bit further inland, and the place to go for inexpensive, incredible sushi. Seriously, my boyfriend and I split 5 different rolls which each had over 10 pieces, and our bill was only $40. The aptly named San Diego roll is a favorite, and make sure to try the monthly deal, which consists of 4, 4 piece rolls that they’re experimenting with that month.
3. Isabel’s Cantina
Tucked away on a quieter street in Pacific Beach, Isabel’s boasts a Mexican-Asian fusion brunch menu which, somehow, works incredibly well. Not only is their large, airy dining room amazingly well decorated, the food is incredible, and made with local ingredients. Pro tip: try the mimosa flight. You’re welcome.
Zomato
4. Duke’s
Located in La Jolla, Duke’s features creative Hawaiian fine-dining. Their appetizer list is extensive, and features favorites like crab wontons done in their much more refined style. It’s definitely on the pricier side – dinners average around $25 – but it’s a fantastic option if you’re looking for a classy night out. I personally had the seared ahi tuna, and it was absolutely amazing.
5. Baja Beach Cafe
If you’re looking for fishbowl-sized margaritas in a classic shabby beach shack, look no further. This place specializes in giant margaritas, each containing 4 shots of top quality tequila for only $17. And you have a whole page of kinds to choose from! Their food is also great (and massively portioned), so if you’re looking to eat and drink on the cheap, this is the place for you.
Location Matters
6. Mission Mission Beach
Located in Mission Beach (obviously), this breakfast joint is also a local favorite, so expect a wait unless you get there right after opening. They serve classic breakfast staples made with fresh ingredients, and have an impressive coffee selection to boot. The steak hash and eggs is a personal favorite.
These are just a few of the seemingly infinite number of local food hubs that San Diego has to offer. As a place with such an emphasis on quality dining, I’m sure anywhere you choose to eat is going to impress even the most seasoned foodie; however, if you’re feeling overwhelmed with choice, these are great, failsafe places to start.