San Diego - Eating
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Street food in San Diego is synonymous with fish tacos, and most locals wouldn’t enjoy a Padres game without one. But don’t stop just there. The city offers too many exciting dining options to pass up. Little Italy is an obvious for contemporary Italian cuisine, while the Gaslamp Quarter continues to attract cutting-edge chefs who are eager to make a culinary statement. To truly experience the local cuisine, also make sure to visit the wine-growing district, which has been called San Diego’s “best-kept secret.” The vineyards are located in the North County, just 45 minutes from downtown.
George’s California Modern
It is difficult to find a local restaurant that has received more raving reviews than this award-winning establishment, formerly known as George’s at the Cove. This place is serious about Californian food and well worth a visit.
A.R. Valentien
A.R Valentien is known as one of the best restaurants in San Diego. Located at the Lodge at Torrey Pines Golf Course, it has breathtaking views of the 18th green. The contemporary Californian menu draws inspiration from local fresh-today ingredients and changes daily.
Antica Trattoria
Food critics have called Antica Trattoria “the best Italian” in San Diego and with reviews that describe the dishes as “sensuous to the point of sin,” it is hard to stay away. The Sicilian-born chef is known to use the best Italian ingredients such as San Daniele prosciutto and imported fontina cheese.
Nobu
Even though Nobu has become a chain restaurant, it is the coolest one in San Diego and an excellent choice for exquisite sushi, sashimi, and Asian fusion dishes. Located at the entrance to the Gaslamp Quarter.
The Oceanaire Seafood Room
For the best oyster selection in town, check out Oceanaire. The impressive menu includes oysters from Malpeque (Prince Edward Island), Coromandel (New Zealand) and Bluepoint (New York).
Taka
For simple yet creative East-meets-West dishes, Taka is a great choice and a favorite with Japanese visitors. They do not serve lunch.
Las Cuatro Milpas
After more than 75 years in business, locals still line up outside this legendary Mexican restaurant, which is known to have the best tamales in San Diego. The menu is inexpensive and includes items like burritos for $3.75 or a dozen tamales for $15.
