Phil's Barbecue is mesquite-grilled rather than the traditional slow-smoked fare. The main menu items consist of beef or pork ribs, chicken and sandwiches. Side dishes include salads, slaw, baked beans, French fries, and even steamed veggies, not to mention the big thick onion rings which have a cult following of their own. Service is walk-up, with waiters common at peak times. Ambiance is sports-bar casual with large-screen TV's and friendly fellow diners. Bring an appetite as the portions are huge.
Those familiar with the Snooze chain of breakfast eateries will know what to expect from this one in San Diego. Located in the bustling neighborhood of Hillcrest, this eatery is where you should be headed for a scrumptious breakfast. Its fancy interiors and warm, friendly atmosphere make it perfect for a meal with the family. Like the other Snooze outlets, this one too takes pride in its modern rendition of the classic American pancakes. Apart from the popular pancakes, also worth a shot are the signature Havana Daydreaming and Peter Paul Rubens sandwiches.
Werewolf
If you are looking for an evening that includes drinking amazing whiskey in an unpretentious environment, then Werewolf is exactly the place. Most would hardly realize it upon first entering, but the bar has an impressive list of whiskeys from around the world. Moreover, the kitchen prepares tasty small plates for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Try the Pork Belly Eggs Benedict for weekend brunch or the Bourbon Bacon Burger for lunch, both are perfect especially after all the whiskey imbibed upon the night before.
Feast upon the New York style thin crust pizza only at Bronx Pizza in San Diego. To enhance your dining experience they provide you with 18 different styles of sliced pies. Owing to the young and pleasant atmosphere, flawless customer service and delicious slices—all generations flock at Bronx Pizza. Head to this classic pizzeria for the quality and taste is consistent throughout the year.
STK San Diego is on the first floor of Andaz San Diego on F Street, in the Gaslamp Quarter just off 6th Avenue. Signature steaks, cocktails and live DJ sets. Saturday and Sunday brunch from 9am. $3, $6, $9 Happy Hour from 2:30 daily. The 9pm reprise runs Sunday through Thursday. Reserve early on Padres nights. Walk to Petco Park, the waterfront or Sixth Avenue's bars after. Private dining for celebrations and corporate events. Modern steakhouse, hotel-side.
Ironside Fish & Oyster helmed by Michelin star chef Jason McLeod is the place to visit in Little Italy for a fresh, modern approach to seafood as opposed to some of the more traditional Spaghetti and Clam joints around the neighborhood. The menu changes often since it relies heavily on whatever the catch brings in, but one thing you can always find on the menu is the Lobster Roll. It is served in a brown-butter mayo and a soft bun then topped with chives; definitely one of the highlights. Seafood Paella, Steamed Mussels, Fried Oysters, Rock Fish Ceviche and excellent Peel 'n' Eat Shrimp are just a few of the items on the menu at any given time.
Hodad’s
Hodad’s has been recognized as one of the top 5 burger joints in the country by CNN with Hodad’s being the only west coast restaurant to get recognized. In 1969, Byron and Virginia Hardin began serving the world’s best burgers. Hodad’s first location was located on the beach at the end of Santa Monica Ave. in Ocean Beach. In 1991, after several moves, Hodad’s opened at its present location in the heart of Ocean Beach’s Newport Ave. In 2011 we opened our second location in beautiful downtown San Diego. Hodad’s is now owned by second generation Burgermeister Mike “Boss Man” Hardin and long time friend Teri Rhodes.
The third restaurant of the longstanding Los Angeles seafood icon, the Water Grill is located in the plush Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego. The expansive space serves 18 varieties of shucked oysters at their raw bar, categorized into Eastern and Western varieties. Besides, there is a fresh seasonal seafood menu, chilled shellfish, raw crudos and traditional seafood entrees as well. The decor is wood-decked, has nautical elements and there are leather banquettes for seating.
