Dine
The San Diego dining scene is one of the best in the country. From hearty comfort food to Michelin-starred fine dining, there are restaurants for every palate.
Fall 2023
The Food Hit List: November 2023
Sandwiches. Tacos. S’mores. Good ol’ American breakfasts. When the weather in San Diego takes on its (admittedly minor) winter chill, often all we want is a really delicious, occasionally Michelin-recognized take on the classics. Here are 15 local dishes that hit the spot for us this month. Go get some.
Finding Home at MAKE Café in North Park
October 30, 2023
The immigrant-staffed restaurant & workforce program crafts some of SD's most authentic international dishes
Celebrating 75 years of In-N-Out, Southern California’s favorite homegrown burger chain
October 20, 2023
The head of the family-owned, Baldwin Park-born business has released a new book this week about her grandparents’ secret to fast-food success.
The Hottest Restaurants in San Diego, October 2023
October 3, 2023
More often than not, tipsters, readers, friends, and family of Eater have one question: Where should I eat right now? And while the restaurant industry is still being affected by the pandemic, new restaurants continue to persevere and are managing to open their doors to diners eager to get back to dining out.
Fall 2023
October Happenings
As the sun-kissed beaches begin to mellow out and the weather becomes absolutely delightful, October is the perfect time to explore San Diego's vibrant dining scene. From fresh seafood to international cuisine, this coastal city has something to tantalize every palate.
Check out this wine tasting event hosted by the Hilton Garden Inn and Homewood Suites San Diego Del Mar.
San Diego’s 25 most anticipated new restaurants coming this fall
October 1, 2023
Although spring and summer are traditionally the peak seasons for new restaurant openings in San Diego County, more than two dozen new eateries are scheduled to debut between now and January. Here’s a look at the new culinary options coming to the region this fall.
SD Food News: September 4–8
September 4, 2023
The latest in food and drink happenings around town
Here Are San Diego’s Most Anticipated Restaurant and Bar Openings of Fall 2023
September 1, 2023
As San Diego inches towards fall and the weather cools, there’s still plenty to look forward to on the calendar when it comes to new restaurants and bars. Some long-awaited establishments are primed to finally make their debut, including breakout endeavors by acclaimed chefs, fresh offerings from established culinary teams, and ventures revolving around wine, cider, cocktails, and even karaoke.
September 2023 SPOTLIGHT
Savor the Flavors of Summer at the
NY Garden Deli: Serving Boar’s Head meats
They are now serving breakfast and lunch!
Try their signature sandwich or Build-Your-Own creation from an extensive line of top quality deli meats, cheeses and accompaniments.
Plus, enjoy your choice with local craft beers, a glass of wine, liquor by the bottle or an ice cold beverage.
San Diego's Best Restaurants of 2023
July 29, 2023
This year’s “Top Five” is a chronicle of obsession. When Callie chef and San Diego native Travis Swikard learns local boats have fresh spot prawns, he drives to Scripps Oceanographic Institute, secures optimal seawater, and keeps the prawns swimming in his kitchen until dinner service. On the other side of downtown, fellow hometowner Tara Monsod and her three main chefs at the heavy-draped, softly opulent Animae are Filipina a major local culture represented at the height of San Diego restaurant life.
5 Best Restaurants In San Diego, Ranked
July 23, 2023
Though Los Angeles tends to get most of the foodie hype in SoCal, San Diego is another coastal city that is home to a diverse and delicious culinary scene. It might not have as many celebrity-owned restaurants or Michelin-starred spots, but it is still very worth exploring both for locals and visitors. Since it is so close to the border, expect to find some of the best Mexican food and tacos. The seafood is also supremely fresh, and there are actually tons of oceanfront eateries to choose from.
The Hottest Restaurants in San Diego, July 2023
July 19, 2023
More often than not, tipsters, readers, friends, and family of Eater have one question: Where should I eat right now? And while the restaurant industry is still being affected by the pandemic, new restaurants continue to persevere and are managing to open their doors to diners eager to get back to dining out.
July 2023 SPOTLIGHT
Savor the Flavors of Summer at Bistro 39:
A Culinary Delight at Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Del Mar
As the sun-kissed days of summer envelop Southern California, culinary enthusiasts and food aficionados have a delightful reason to celebrate. Nestled within the elegant confines of the Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Del Mar, Bistro 39 Restaurant is a culinary gem that promises an unforgettable dining experience.
San Diego may be known for sunshine and surf, but it actually has a pretty robust food scene. When you have the nation’s best weather and perfect beaches, why not top that off with world class food?
The 5 best restaurants in San Diego
July 15, 2023
While beach towns are often regarded more for their surf and sun than their savvy dining, the best restaurants in San Diego prove to be an exception—from stylish dining rooms to casual beachside eats, the coastal city bursts with creativity and bonafide kitchen chops.
San Diego’s Best Summer Dining For The Summer Solstice
July 11, 2023
Summer in San Diego officially starts next Monday, June 21st and as restaurants, bars, and wineries are in the process of officially fully reopening, we are looking forward to some of the city’s best dining throughout the season!
Fourth Of July Specials Around San Diego
July 1, 2023
The 4th of July is a day of patriotism, celebration, and indulgence in delectable food and refreshing drinks. San Diego, known for its vibrant culinary scene, offers an array of food and drink specials to make this Independence Day unforgettable.
Memorial Day Deals & Steals 2023
May 26, 2023
Celebrate the unofficial start of summer with weekend dine-in & to-go specials, freebies, military discounts & National Hamburger Day deals.
San Diego Events May 2023
San Diego Activities and Outdoor Activities
March 14, 2023
Enjoy these fun San Diego events May 2023.
Drink of the Month: The Rum Swizzle at Bistro 39 in Del Mar
March 9, 2023
This refreshing Jamaican drink is available for the entire month of May at a newly renovated restaurant inside the Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Del Mar.
FoodieLand Night Market - San Diego
May 2, 2023
Wondering what to do this weekend? Check out the FoodieLand Night market from May 5-7, 2023
Easter San Diego 2023: Brunch, Restaurants, Things to Do
April 5, 2023
Here’s a look at Easter San Diego 2023 featuring special offerings by restaurants and businesses.
The Hottest Restaurants in San Diego, April 2023
April 6, 2023
Where should I eat right now? And while the restaurant industry is still being affected by the pandemic, new restaurants continue to persevere and are managing to open their doors to diners eager to get back to dining out.
The San Diego Deli Selling Boar’s Head
The finest selection of meat, cheese & beverages by the bottle can be found at NY Garden Deli & Cafe. The hidden deli you never knew you lived around the corner from!
Restaurants prepping for takeout orders with heavy rain
March 25, 2023
The back end of this winter storm is expected to continue to bring heavy rain to San Diego County.
Newly Renovated Hidden Gem in Del Mar
March 9, 2023
A hidden gem inside the Hilton Garden Inn San Diego-Del Mar, Bistro 39 Restaurant and Lounge blends savory California cuisine with a relaxed atmosphere.
Super Bowl Sunday Funday
February 12, 2023
Wondering what to do this Sunday for the game? Check out this special deal in Del Mar at Bistro 39 Restaurant & Bar.
How Is Limited Indoor Dining Going?
October 23, 2020
Sandy chats with us about what it’s been like to reopen the restaurant for indoor dining at a limited capacity. As a restaurateur, dealing with angry customers is always a difficult but necessary part of the job, and she shares that unfortunately it’s not any better under the new pandemic restrictions.
17 Convoy Street Eateries with Patio Dining
October 19, 2020
Dine outdoors in the neighborhood that has San Diego’s best Asian food
Grow it.
October 15, 2020
The challenges of the coronavirus pandemic haven’t stopped for local restaurateurs. This week on the Scene in San Diego podcast, “Top Chef” alum Chef Brian Malarkey shares how he’s running his local restaurants these days – and what’s changed. Eater San Diego shares that story, plus news of new Mexican food, Thai treats, a gourmet market, and scrumptious sandwiches found around town.
13 Bistros & Steakhouses with Outdoor Patio Dining in San Diego
October 13, 2020
Meat lovers, satisfy your carnivorous cravings at any one of these bistros with patio seating options
National Taco Day: Freebies and deals offered nationally
October 8, 2020
National Taco Day is Sunday, Oct. 4 and eateries across America are celebrating with free and discounted offers on the popular Mexican food item.
Annual Aztecs Rock Hunger Food Drive Returns Virtually
September 28, 2020
Due to the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, San Diego State University’s Aztecs Rock Hunger campaign is returning Sept. 28- Oct. 18 in a virtual format to combat food insecurity on campus and across San Diego County.
Indoor rules are changing in San Diego County. Restaurants, gyms, salons and more affected
September 10, 2020
After more than a month getting by as best they could outdoors, businesses and other organizations received a much broader-than-expected set of reopening guidelines from the state Friday, Aug. 28.
Pop on 30th: Nonprofit Serving Immigrants, Refugees Helps Restaurants Offer Outside Dining
September 9, 2020
Several restaurants and a nonprofit that prepares immigrants and refugees for jobs in the kitchen are now working together to make it through the pandemic
Staying Positive During the Pandemic: Local Restaurant Shares Story
September 2, 0202
Restaurant owners have been constantly switching things up to meet safety guidelines during COVID-19, and all those changes can get a little overwhelming. A popular family owned restaurant in the East County shared it’s story with NBC 7 on how they’re all staying positive through the pandemic.
Labor Day Weekend Wine Tastings in Del Mar
August 26, 2020
The Hilton Garden Inn and Homewood Suites San Diego Del Mar are hosting two wine tastings to kick off Labor Day Weekend. Click the link below to learn more about this event!
SeaWorld San Diego food fest
August 24, 2020
The limited-time event pairs the Bayside BBQ & Brews food festival with the Zoo Days animal exhibits and stadium shows while SeaWorld’s rides and roller coasters remain closed amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Multi-site drive-thru food drive Saturday
August 21, 2020
Roughly 35 congregations from various faiths, as well as local businesses, the Mt. Helix Foundation, and the Lemon Grove Clergy Association are participating in a multisite “drive-thru” food drive Saturday called “Neighbors Helping Neighbors.”
As some restaurants fall to the pandemic, new ones rise
August 12, 2020
Aided by a plentiful supply of outdoor seating, Liberty Station has become a hot spot for new restaurant openings as the pandemic stretches on. Three new restaurants have opened at the former Navy base near Point Loma since June and several more are on the way in the coming months. Information on all of the restaurants below can be found at libertystation.com/directory/eat.
Restaurants opening, adapting as pandemic wears on
August 10, 2020
It has taken more than two years for Andrew Melone to open his long-anticipated American Pizza Mfg. restaurant in La Jolla, but the Bird Rock resident said the timing of his July 22 grand opening may be just right. American Pizza is a take-and-bake pizza and pasta restaurant where customers preorder a custom-built pie that they pick up, then bake at home in their kitchen oven.
Arlo restaurant debuts at Town and Country resort in Mission Valley
August 7, 2020
Today, Arlo restaurant will open at the Town and Country resort in Mission Valley, which is in the midst of a four-year, $70 million makeover. Helmed by executive chef Josh Mouzakes, Arlo will serve a California cuisine menu of scratch-made dishes prepared with local ingredients. Until a public health order banning indoor dining lifts, the restaurant will serve customers on its patio.
San Diego Restaurants Rush to Expand Outdoor Dining Options
August 2, 2020
With San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer waiving the need for permits, local restaurants are rushing to expand outdoor dining in the wake of new COVID-19 restrictions.
The Dish: With latest closure order, two North County restaurants reimagine their menus
July 25, 2020
When John Resnick launched Campfire restaurant in Carlsbad four years ago, the one dish he didn’t want to serve at the 180-seat wood fire-focused eatery was a burger. That would’ve been too easy, too obvious and not in keeping with the creative cookery plans he had with founding chef Andrew Bachelier. But things change, particularly during a pandemic.
Flurry of new restaurants open countywide, despite dining room shutdown order
July 18, 2020
Opening a restaurant is one of the riskiest of business ventures, but opening in the middle of a pandemic takes nerves of steel. That hasn’t stopped several local entrepreneurs from debuting new eateries around San Diego County this month.
San Diego Restaurants Ordered to Shut Down Indoor Dining
July 6, 2020
Here we go again. Following a busy Fourth of July weekend that saw San Diego County businesses and beaches stay open while surrounding counties were ordered to shut down, San Diego County has now been on the state’s coronavirus watch list for more than three days, making it eligible for the restrictions imposed on other SoCal counties last Wednesday, meaning that local restaurants must shutter all indoor dining spaces for at least three weeks starting at midnight tonight.
‘We’re getting destroyed’: San Diego restaurants and bars react to a looming shutdown
July 5, 2020
As Mike Georgopoulos was prepping this week to finally open his swanky $10-million steakhouse in the Gaslamp Quarter, he stared down from his perch on the mezzanine with a mixture of delight — and dread. The floor-to-ceiling wine display and marble bar top were dazzling, and the wait staff, nattily attired in black pants, pressed white shirts, gray vests and green ties, meticulously polished the glassware for the Friday opening.
Mayor Kevin Faulconer Signs Executive Order to Help Restaurants Expand Outdoor Service
July 7, 2020
San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer signed an emergency Executive Order on Tuesday that will help local restaurants expand their outdoor dining options. The order, effective immediately, was signed the same day the county put a halt on in-door dining services for three weeks in response to the regions increasing coronavirus cases and community outbreaks.
Eater San Diego: Let's Talk About the State of the Restaurant Industry
June 28, 2020
Eater San Diego and NBC 7’s The Scene have launched "Scene in San Diego Featuring Eater", a new podcast dedicated to stories about the ever-changing restaurant industry and the places and things that give our city its flavor. In the first episode, we discuss how new COVID-19 rules have impacted the business of hospitality and Sam The Cooking Guy tells us how his restaurants have been affected.
A Running List of San Diego Restaurants That Have Fully Reopened
June 20, 2020
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Black-Owned Restaurants to Support in San Diego
June 15, 2020
We've been asked by readers for a list of black-owned restaurants people can support. This is that list. From juicy brisket to golden fried catfish to spicy stews with warm injera bread to vegetarian soul food—have it for dinner tonight. And maybe lunch tomorrow. It's a small, tangible way to support our black community while working toward larger, more significant changes.
San Diego County gets the OK from state to resume dining-in at restaurants
May 27, 2020
San Diego County received word Wednesday night that its request to allow dining at restaurants and in-store shopping was approved, setting the stage for a rapid reopening, although with social distancing restrictions.
What are the rules as San Diego restaurants, stores reopen?
June 2, 2020
San Diego restaurants and stores hosted customers inside for the first weekend since the stay at home orders began. However, many viewers found the rules confusing or weren’t sure what to expect. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Bars in California Will Reopen This Week
Jun 8, 2020
Bars across California can reopen for drinkers on Friday, state officials said, in counties that hit the milestones for COVID-19 testing and infection rates that permit the next phase of reopening.
What to know: Changes at San Diego restaurants, retail this Memorial Day weekend
May 23, 2020
Despite moves to reopen sectors of San Diego County's business community ahead of the Memorial Day weekend, not everything has returned to normal.
Which restaurants and stores are open today in San Diego? A peek into the reopening
MAY 21, 2020
San Diego restaurants and shops are allowed to fully reopen today to in-person patrons. But how did the day go?
San Diego Restaurants Back In The Dine-In Business, With Coronavirus Modifications
May 21, 2020
For the first time in two months, some restaurants and retail stores are welcoming customers inside to eat and shop.
We're Open! San Diego businesses still open!
#UnitedSanDiego #StayConnected
We’re Open, San Diego!
Wondering what stores have special hours for seniors, pregnant women, those with underlying health concerns, and those considered most at risk? Look no further. We made a list for you here.
Local restaurants offering take-out and delivery during coronavirus pandemic
Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, San Diegans still gotta eat. And right now, local restaurants need your support more than ever. While not a comprehensive list, here are some spots that are still open for business and ready to feed you.
Local restaurant owners face barriers due to guidelines set by Governor Newsom
When the Governor announced that restaurants in California could start reopening, there was a lot of excitement in the air. Then someone took a closer look and realized there was little to be excited about.
When Take-Out Is The Treat: Dining in San Diego Amid the Pandemic
Some of San Diego’s best-known restaurants are now offering elaborate take-out meals, complete with wine and cocktails, for foodies who are keeping their social distance.
San Diego restaurant owners wait for direction from state on reopening
Gov. Gavin Newsom is expected to lay out reopening guidelines for restaurant dining areas in California on Tuesday, and many San Diego restaurant owners are hopeful for positive news on that front.
With restaurants closed, chefs reinvent their food service methods
Five local chefs are staying busy with pizza and casual pop-ups, fairgrounds drive-thru and home-delivered boxes