The Craving: January 8–14

The Craving is all about helping you satisfy your craving for all of the best from San Diego’s local food scene. Come back every week for the latest menu updates, new cocktail programs, happy hours, and special offers from San Diego’s best restaurants and bars!


San Diego Rodeo Weekend Specials

As San Diego gears up for the rodeo, the Gaslamp Quarter is full of exciting rodeo-themed dining specials from Friday, January 10, through Sunday, January 12.

Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine

Swing by Lionfish and indulge in the Cowboy Steak and Crown Your Way, featuring a bone-in New York steak with cowboy butter, red-eye gravy, onion rings, and a Crown Royal whiskey cocktail for $80.

lionfish menu

Havana 1920

Havana 1920 is a vibrant spot for delicious eats and authentic Cuban flavors.

Show your rodeo ticket and get 20% off your meal. Try the award-winning Cubano sandwich ($16) or flavorful Camarones al Ajillo ($16).

El Chingon

Rodeo ticket holders get 20% off food at this lively Mexican cantina. Don’t miss the loaded Bad Ass Fries ($12) or the hearty Surf and Turf Burrito ($18), packed with shrimp, carne asada, and house-made enchilada sauce.

Find El Chingon at 560 Fifth Ave.

El Chingon

Borrego Rooftop Kitchen + Cocktails

At Hotel Indigo, Borrego offers stunning skyline views, perfect for rodeo weekend dining.

The Borrego Smash Burger is a great deal: two juicy patties, American cheese, garlic aioli, and fries with a beer for $25. Add a shot of Jack Daniels for $5.

barleymash

From Friday, January 10 through Sunday, January 12, join barleymash for Barley Rodeo, featuring BBQ specials, drink deals, and exciting giveaways all weekend long!

Enjoy great food, festive drinks, and rodeo-inspired fun in the heart of downtown San Diego.


Quick Bites Café Coming to Little Italy

Quick Bites Café will celebrate its grand opening on Wednesday, January 15, from 7 AM to 4 PM, on India Street in Little Italy. Founded by Gloire Bora, a San Diego local originally from Uganda, the café offers fresh, high-quality grab-and-go meals at great prices.

The menu includes handcrafted sandwiches and salads made with house-baked focaccia, along with coffee, fresh juices, and locally sourced cold brew from DropKick Cold Brew.

A family-run venture, Quick Bites brings a personal touch to the neighborhood. It’s set to be the perfect stop for quick, delicious bites while running errands!


Lionfish Celebrates January With Flavors for Every Occasion

Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine at Pendry San Diego is serving up three exclusive specials this January in honor of National Oysters Rockefeller Day, the San Diego Rodeo, and National Peking Duck Day.

On January 9 and 10, enjoy an elevated take on Oysters Rockefeller with fresh Baja oysters, spinach, herb crumble, yuzu butter, bacon, and parmesan for $30.

From January 10 to 12, celebrate the San Diego Rodeo with the Cowboy Steak and Crown Your Way, featuring a bone-in New York steak paired with a Crown Royal cocktail for $80.

The Craving

On January 18, indulge in a half Peking Duck with scallion pancake, pickled cucumber, and house hoisin for $45.

Pair dishes with Lionfish’s refreshing mocktails like the Cucumber Refresher or Autumn Dream for $10 each.

Visit here to make your reservations.


Civico 1845 is Officially America’s Best Vegan-Friendly Restaurant

San Diego’s Civico 1845 in Little Italy has been named America’s Best Vegan-Friendly Restaurant in the 2024 VegNews Restaurant Awards, honoring its exceptional hospitality and innovative plant-based menu.

Owned by brothers Dario and Pietro Gallo, Civico 1845 is known for dishes like baked almond ricotta, fried zucchini blossoms, and eggplant parmigiana alongside authentic Calabrian classics.

Recognized globally by Gambero Rosso International and as an official ambassador of Italian cuisine, Civico 1845 blends tradition with modern vegan innovation. Click here to explore their award-winning menu.

Read more here.


Mr. Moto Pizza’s “Moto Mondays” Are Back!

This January, Mr. Moto Pizza continues its Moto Mondays campaign, offering exciting promotions every Monday! Inspired by the success of November’s “Moto Gone Crazy,” which combined free pizzas with donations to the YMCA’s Solidarity Journey, this month’s deal is just as tasty.

Every Monday, enjoy one free order of chicken wings (6-piece) with the purchase of any large pizza. Choose from buffalo or BBQ wings—limit one per order. Use code “motowings” at checkout.


Newest Spill the Beans Location Opens in Pacific Beach!

Spill the Beans, the cherished coffee and bagel café, has officially opened its fourth location, now serving Pacific Beach! Known for its fresh-roasted coffee and house-made bagels, Spill the Beans has become a local favorite since its Gaslamp Quarter debut.

Crafted by Chef Karina Orozco, the signature bagels are made with just five ingredients and boiled in agave syrup for a unique, softer texture. Creative flavors like Sundried Tomato & Cheese and Bacon & White Cheddar shine alongside artisan-compounded butters and handmade cream cheeses.

The Pacific Beach location is the first to offer vegan cream cheese, joining favorites like White Truffle & Parmesan and Bananas Foster.

The menu also boasts hearty “bagel sandos,” including the popular San Dieggo, alongside avocado toast, Chia Berry Bowls, and satisfying lunch options like the B.B.L.(t). Pair with blaze energy drinks, cold brew, teas, or specialty lattes.

Located at 980 Garnet Avenue, Spill the Beans Pacific Beach offers a welcoming 2,000 square-foot café. Open daily from 7 AM to 3 PM, it’s the perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, or a quick coffee run.


Winter Menu Updates at Sandpiper

La Jolla Shores’ Sandpiper Wood Fired Grill & Oysters, named a Fodor’s Travel “Best Bet,” has refreshed its menu with exciting new dishes and cocktails for winter!

The Winter Salad joins the dinner offerings, featuring kale, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, apples, avocado, candied walnuts, and apple cider vinaigrette.

New on the Happy Hour menu, enjoy the Chicken Parmesan Sandwich, served on focaccia with mozzarella, arugula, and basil, alongside fries or a salad.

Bar Manager Andrew Phillips has also introduced three new cocktails:

  • Basic Beach: Aged rums, coffee liqueur, pumpkin spice, coconut, oat milk
  • Sail to the Cosmos: Vodka, raspberry liqueur, almond, lemon, egg white
  • Winter Spritz: Aperol, orange liqueur, spiced cranberry, vanilla, prosecco

Dinner service begins at 4 PM Sunday to Friday (Happy Hour from 4 PM to 5:30 PM). On Saturdays, Happy Hour runs all day from 12 PM to 5:30 PM.


Urban Plates Kicks Off Wellness Booster Mondays

Urban Plates, the chef-driven fast-casual restaurant, is helping us start 2025 on a healthy note with Wellness Booster Mondays.

Now through Monday, January 27, the first 250 people to dine in or order to-go at any Urban Plates location will receive a complimentary cranberry, apple, and ginger replenisher shot packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits.

The Craving

With 2025 trends emphasizing longevity and wellness, Urban Plates offers:

  • Bio-hacking-friendly choices: Ten entrées under 580 calories and high-protein meals with 40+ grams of protein
  • Clean protein sources: GMO-, antibiotic-, and hormone-free steak, sustainably raised salmon, and more
  • Dietary inclusivity: Half the menu is vegetarian, with vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options available

Visit Urban Plates in Carlsbad, La Jolla, or Del Mar for balanced meals and a wellness boost on the house. For more info, visit here.


Spill the Beans Opens in Pacific Beach

Spill the Beans has officially opened its fourth San Diego County location, now serving coffee and bagel enthusiasts in Pacific Beach! Located at 980 Garnet Avenue, this café offers the same menu that made its Gaslamp debut a hit, alongside exciting new features.

Chef Karina Orozco’s signature bagels, made with just five simple ingredients and boiled in agave syrup, stand out for their larger size and softer texture.

Creative flavors like Sundried Tomato & Cheese and Bacon & White Cheddar pair perfectly with artisan cream cheeses, including White Truffle & Parmesan and Bananas Foster. The PB location is also the first to offer vegan cream cheese!

The menu features hearty bagel sandos, like the San Dieggo, plus avocado toast, Chia Berry Bowls, and lunch favorites like the B.B.L.(t). Beverage options include classic coffee drinks, specialty lattes, and blaze energy drinks.

Spill the Beans in Pacific Beach offers a 2,000 sq. ft. space with indoor seating and operates daily from 7 AM to 3 PM. Stop by and experience this vibrant addition to the neighborhood!


Stories from the Soil: Farm-to-Table Dinner Series at Fox Point Farms

Fox Point Farms, San Diego’s first agrihood, invites you to Stories from the Soil, a monthly farm-to-table dinner series blending celebrated chefs with regenerative agriculture principles.

This intimate dining experience connects guests to the land through seasonal, multi-course meals crafted by top chefs working alongside Fox Point’s own chef Kelston Moore and farmer Greg Reese.

Curated beverage pairings by Ricardo Zarate Jr. complete these 21+ events, inspiring sustainability and deeper connections to the soil.
Upcoming Dinners:

  • January 13: Chef Drew Deckman, Michelin-starred and farming advocate. $225/person
  • February10: Cameron Ingle (Marisi La Jolla) joins Phillip Humphrey (Coco Maya).
  • March 10: Dylan Patel, James Beard Award-winner from Chicago’s Avec.
  • April 7: Tim Kolanko & Wesley Johnson for a Slowfood-inspired feast.
The Craving

Experience Stories from the Soil and San Diego’s future of sustainable living. Reserve your spot here.

Click here for more info.


Cozy Up This Winter With The Smoking Gun’s Soup Du Jour Program

The Smoking Gun is warming up the Gaslamp Quarter this winter with the return of its beloved Soup Du Jour program. This seasonal staple brings a rotating lineup of hearty, flavorful soups, perfect for pairing with the restaurant’s urban street food and craft cocktails.

Currently featured is their Black Bean Soup, a bold, vegetarian-friendly creation with black beans, onions, carrots, celery, and jalapeños in a rich vegetable broth. Topped with creamy avocado and micro cilantro, it’s easily made vegan by skipping the avocado cream.

Past favorites like Creamy Corn Chowder and Pakora Cauliflower Soup hint at the delicious variety to come this season. Whether you’re craving comfort or curious about their latest offerings, The Smoking Gun is your winter soup spot.

Stop by for the soup, stay for the vibe!


Saturday Vinyl Nights at Postino Little Italy

Join Postino Little Italy every Saturday night, now through March 29, from 6 PM to 9 PM for Vinyl Nights! Sip on wine, beer, cocktails, or zero-proof options while enjoying a charcuterie board and grooving to beats spun by DJ Beyond.

Located at 2100 Kettner Blvd Suite 1800, it’s the perfect way to unwind!


Swell Plates Series Celebrates Oceanside’s Culinary Scene

The Swell Plates Series runs from January 15 to February 13, 2025, showcasing Oceanside’s best restaurants during California Restaurant Month. This event highlights creative, sustainable dishes crafted by local chefs using fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and innovative flavors.

Participating restaurants like Valle, Dija Mara, The Plot, and 24 Suns are offering exclusive menu items. Highlights include 24 Suns’ dish featuring rice noodles, black abalone, smoked vegetable mole, and sustainable sausage, and Wrench & Rodent’s Fisherman’s Special, made with fresh catches from the Oceanside Fishermen’s Market.

Swell Plates Series

You can grab a Swell Plates Passport, sample dishes, and enter to win an Oceanside getaway or restaurant gift cards! Passports are available at participating venues starting January 15.

Read more here.


The Whiskey House Turns 10 and Celebrates With a Roaring 20s Bash

Downtown’s The Whiskey House is marking its 10th anniversary in style with a roaring 20s-themed party on Wednesday, January 15.

Kick off with a complimentary food buffet from 7 PM to 9 PM, featuring sliders, wings, chorizo mac ‘n cheese, veggie egg rolls, caprese skewers, chips and guacamole, and dessert platters.

Enjoy drink specials and happy hour pricing on food and beverages from 7 PM to 11 PM, set to the sounds of a live roaring 20s band performing from 7 PM to 10 PM.

With over 4,000 varieties of whiskey, along with an impressive selection of gins, tequilas, beer, and wine, The Whiskey House is the ultimate destination if you like your spirits!

They’re also celebrating with their all-new Taco Tuesday specials. From 4 PM to 11 PM, enjoy $4 birria tacos, $3 tequila drinks, and $5 Modelo Especials and Barrio Lagers. You can also pair these deals with Happy Hour specials available from 4 PM to 7 PM.


Georges at the Cove Hosts Inaugural WhistlePig Beefsteak Dinner

Join Georges at the Cove on Friday, January 24 at 6 PM for their Inaugural WhistlePig Beefsteak Dinner, a collaborative culinary event featuring guest chefs Jason Knibb (Nine-Ten) and Mike Reidy (The Fishery) alongside Georges’ own Chef/Partner Trey Foshee, Executive Chef Masa Kojima, and Pastry Chef Anna Adams.

Seating will be at communal banquet tables, with a family-style feast served alongside two cocktails and three 1-oz. pours of WhistlePig Rye (Old World Rye Aged 12 Years, Estate Oak Rye Aged 15 Years, and The Boss Hog).

The menu includes a plated seafood appetizer, salad, family-style meats, sides, and dessert.

🎟️ Tickets are $220 and can be purchased here.


Check Out This Cool Weekend Package!

Experience luxury and culinary magic with the Cow by Bear + InterContinental San Diego Weekend Package, pairing a premium waterfront stay with an exclusive dining experience.

Cow by Bear x InterContinental San Diego Weekend Package

Stay in a water view premium king room, enjoy a welcome drink at Vistal, and use a $25 Uber credit for transportation to Cow by Bear, a whimsical supper club hosted by the mysterious Chef Bear. Expect an interactive dinner featuring inventive dishes, paired wines, and playful cocktails.

The next morning, wake up to a Bear-delivered breakfast served in your room or overlooking the bay.

Priced at $815, the package is available every Saturday in January. Book now for January 11, 18, or 25.

Read more about it here.


Sip, Savor, and Socialize

Slowly Restaurant & Lounge, the Landini family’s stylish new hotspot in Pacific Beach, is bringing the Mediterranean tradition of aperitivo to San Diego.

Every Thursday from 4 PM to 7 PM, guests can enjoy a complimentary spread of elevated bites, including charcuterie cups, empanadas, flatbreads, sliders, and salads—perfectly paired with Slowly’s signature handcrafted cocktails.

Signature drinks include the Whispering Ember’s Old-Fashioned ($19), smoked tableside, the Bonfire Espresso Martini ($17), torched for a dramatic touch, and the Mellow Mango Margarita ($16) with a smoked paprika rim.

Unwind, catch up with friends, and embrace the seamless transition from day to night in a chic, welcoming atmosphere. Slowly’s full Mediterranean menu, infused with Baja flavors, will also be available to enjoy.

Visit Slowly Restaurant & Lounge at 1520 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach. Cheers!


Celebrate Tea by the Sea at The Marine Room

Join St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center (SMSC) for the 12th annual Tea by the Sea on Saturday, January 18, 2025, from 11 AM to 2 PM at the Marine Room in La Jolla.

This elegant event benefits individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, offering a memorable afternoon of oceanfront views, traditional tea, signature cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and live music.

Shop unique items at Sophie’s Gallery, with proceeds supporting the studio where artists thrive in mosaics, weaving, and jewelry design.

Tickets are $160 per guest, including valet parking. Seating is limited—reserve your spot here.

More info can be found here.


Wildland Opens in Carlsbad Village

Wildland, the all-day restaurant, bar, and bakery from Michelin-starred duo Chef Eric Bost and John Resnick (Jeune et Jolie and Campfire), is bringing rustic cuisine and coastal-inspired dining to North County.

rustic cuisine

The menu highlights California’s vibrant flavors through seasonal ingredients and bold, wood-fired techniques. Start your day with Wood Fired Eggs or Blueberry Pancakes with mascarpone, enjoy lunch with a Porchetta sandwich or Wild Pizza, and savor dinner dishes like Ricotta Agnolotti or Grilled Skirt Steak.

Don’t miss pastries and desserts crafted by James Belisle or creative cocktails like the Amaretto Sour Milk Punch.

Read more about it here.


Spill the Beans Debuts January Flavors of the Month

Spill the Beans kicks off the new year with a delicious creation from Chef Karina Orozco, available through January 31!

Indulge in the Greek Olive Bagel, made with kalamata olives, lightly brushed with olive oil, and sprinkled with sea salt. Pair it with the flavorful Mediterranean Veggie Cream Cheese, blending red bell pepper, tomato, cucumber, red onion, garlic, lemon, pepper, and dill.

Chef Karina’s Pairing Suggestions:

  • Greek Olive Bagel + Egg Whites, Pepper Jack Cheese, and Tomatoes
  • Greek Olive Bagel + Mediterranean Veggie Cream Cheese, Shredded Lettuce, and Sausage
  • Greek Olive Bagel + Hummus, Tomatoes, Red Onion, and Cucumber

Now serving at four locations: Pacific Beach, Gaslamp Quarter, Seaport Village, and Mission Valley. Visit Spill the Beans for this month’s must-try bagel creation!


San Diego Restaurant Week Specials

From January 26 to February 2, San Diego Restaurant Week invites you to explore the city’s best dining spots. This is your chance to discover unique restaurants, savor exciting flavors, and create lasting memories with your friends and family.

Temaki Bar

Get ready to savor the flavors of Temaki Bar: Handroll, Sushi, Sake, the acclaimed sushi hotspot in Encinitas.

Crafted by Executive Chef Sebastian Sevilla, the three-course menu offers an exceptional dining experience for just $45 per person! The meal includes:

  • Starter: Miso soup
  • Second Course: A four-piece hand roll set with albacore, yellowtail, salmon, and shrimp
  • Final Course: A specialty nigiri platter featuring salmon with brown butter aioli, hamachi with black garlic ponzu, and yellowfin with yuzu kosho aioli
San Diego Restaurant Week Specials

Each meal is paired with a glass of Momokawa organic sake.

Reservations are encouraged—visit here or call 760-704-8888. Don’t miss this one!

Glass Box

Glass Box, the Del Mar hotspot known for its coastal Asian flavors, is serving up exclusive San Diego Restaurant Week menus crafted by Executive Chef Ethan Yang, blending Chinese, Taiwanese, and Korean influences.

  • Two-Course Lunch ($25): Choose from Prosperity Salad, Wonton Soup, Orange Chicken, Longevity Noodles, Chirashi Bowl, Szechuan Shrimp, or Thai Curry Tofu
  • Three-Course Dinner ($50): Start with Prosperity Salad, Wonton Soup, Assorted Dim Sum, or Sashimi Tasting. Main courses include Braised Pork Belly, Filet Mongolian Style, Longevity Noodles with Shiitake Mushrooms, followed by Chef’s Choice Dessert
  • Four-Course Dinner ($65): Includes all three-course options plus Shrimp Tempura, Agedashi Tofu, and Japanese Style Steak Tartare

Grab your spot here.

Cork & Craft

Cork & Craft, Rancho Bernardo’s go-to spot for pairing food, wine, and beer, is offering exclusive San Diego Restaurant Week menus that celebrate its culinary passion.
Menu Options:

  • Two-Course Lunch ($25):
    Start with a Caesar Salad, Mixed Greens Salad, or Soup of the Day, followed by your choice of Salmon Poke Bowl, Craft Double-Double, or Nashville Chicken Sandwich.
  • Three-Course Dinner ($55):
    Begin with options like Whipped Buttermilk Ricotta, Poached Pear and Chicory Salad, or Ceviche, followed by mains such as Roasted Sea Bass, Braised Short Rib, or a Mediterranean Bowl. End on a sweet note with Peanut Butter Torte, Vanilla Yogurt Panna Cotta, or Carrot Cake.

Reservations are highly recommended—secure your table here.

Celebrate food, wine, and beer in perfect harmony at Cork & Craft during Restaurant Week!


Hot New San Diego Restaurant Openings Coming for 2025

San Diego’s 2025 culinary scene is set to impress with exciting new restaurants opening from late 2024 through the new year. From creative concepts by celebrated chefs to revamped casual dining, here’s a look at the buzzworthy spots you won’t want to miss!

Late 2024 Openings

  • Flora (North Park): Opening in December at 3021 University Ave., Flora offers modern bistro fare like Matcha Waffles, Shakshuka Eggs, and Lychee Spritz cocktails.
  • Tajima (Crown Point): Now open at 3782 Ingraham St., Tajima brings its signature Tonkotsu and Spicy Sesame Ramen alongside a commissary kitchen for fresh broths.
  • Wildflour (Liberty Station): Chef Phillip Esteban debuts a Scandinavian-inspired bakery with sandwiches and cured meats at 2690 Historic Decatur Rd.

2025 Highlights

  • Odie’s Pizza Co. (Oceanside): Serving sourdough crust pizzas starting early 2025 at 121 N. Cleveland St.
  • Roseacre (La Jolla): The highly anticipated dining destination is set to open in Spring 2025 at 7766 Girard Avenue.
  • Madi (Pacific Beach): California-Mediterranean brunch opens summer 2025 at 910 Grand Ave.
  • Cherryfish (Pacific Beach): Asian fusion dining arrives winter 2025, blending top-notch seafood with a chic vibe.
  • Stella Jean’s + Pop Pie Co. (South Park): Opening February 2025, this sweet-and-savory duo is a must-visit!

Mark your calendars and get ready for a flavorful 2025! Read all about the new restaurant openings here.


Tour de Tapas Brings Euro Flavors to Downtown La Mesa

Downtown La Mesa welcomes Tour de Tapas, a vibrant new restaurant offering small plates and sips inspired by the culinary traditions of Spain, France, and Italy. Opened on December 12, this stylish concept from City Tacos founder Gerry Torres invites diners to savor the essence of Southern Europe.

The menu boasts a variety of dishes under $20, including:

  • Pulpo con Chistorra (Spanish-style octopus)
  • Patatas Bravas
  • Poulet Cordon Bleu
  • Pesce Alla Livornese (rockfish)
  • Costillas de Cordero (lamb lollipops)

Pair your meal with over 30 wines from Spain, France, and Italy, plus sangria, beer, and coffee.

Located at 8323 La Mesa Boulevard, Tour de Tapas is open daily for dinner from 4 to 10 PM.

Click here for more info.


Karl Strauss Celebrates 35 Years With Imperial Red Trolley

San Diego’s craft beer pioneer Karl Strauss Brewing Company wraps up its 35th anniversary with the release of Imperial Red Trolley, a bold reimagining of their flagship brew.

With rich caramel and toffee notes and an elevated 8.7% ABV, this celebratory beer caps a milestone year that introduced the Follow the Sun Lager, the NA Red Trolley, and the opening of the Dos Lagos brewpub in Corona.

Raise a glass of Imperial Red Trolley, now on draft at Karl Strauss brewpubs and select Southwest locations, and toast to 35 years of craft beer innovation.

Read more about it here.


Exclusive January Specials at Temaki Bar

Temaki Bar, Clique Hospitality’s award-winning sushi destination in Encinitas, is kicking off the new year with a fresh lineup of January specials. Available from January 1 to 31, the menu features creative handrolls, specialty nigiri, beverages, and more.

Curated by James Beard Smart Catch Leader and San Diego native Chef JoJo Ruiz, highlights include:

  • Fried Vegetable Gyoza: Served with sweet chili sauce, ponzu, or spicy mayo ($12).
  • Katana Hand Roll: Tempura soft shell crab, shiso, yuzu kosho sauce, and goma ($12).
  • The Silver Slayer: Spicy tuna roll topped with hamachi, avocado, and yuzu koshō sauce.
  • Southtown Cut Roll: Shrimp tempura, spicy tuna, jalapeño, sweet soy, and cilantro ($20).

Nigiri specials include yellowfin with yuzu kosho aioli and hamachi with black garlic ponzu, each for $12. Pair these bites with Tropical Mist Citrus Blonde Ale ($9) or Soonhari Apple Mango Soju ($16).

Recognized as North County’s Best Sushi in 2024, Temaki Bar delivers the freshest sustainable seafood and local ingredients. For more details, visit here.


Postino Rolls Out New Zero-Proof Cocktails for Dry January

Raise a glass to flavor and fun without the alcohol! Postino WineCafé is introducing five handcrafted zero-proof cocktails across all locations starting January 1, 2025—just in time for Dry January.

The new lineup offers something for everyone:

  • The Glow-Up: Cool cucumber, mint, lime, and ginger beer.
  • Espresso Flirtini: Spiced cane, hazelnut, and bold espresso.
  • The Mockingbird: Pineapple, Italian orange, and toasted almond bitters.
  • Unfashioned: Smooth honey, rich bitters, and a dash of amaro.
  • Naked Ranch Water: Crisp lime and soda refreshment.

Favorites like Sparkling Rosé, Phony Negroni, and Athletic Brewing Run Wild IPA will also remain on the menu.

Pair these drinks with iconic dishes like the Bruschetta Board, Chef’s Charcuterie, and Table Cheese. For wine lovers, the mantra ‘Drinking Wine at Lunch Is Not A Crime’ still holds true with a robust wine selection available.

Founded in 2001 in a historic Arizona post office, Postino WineCafé now operates 30+ locations nationwide, offering hyper-localized dining experiences.

The Craving

City Tacos’ January Taco of the Month: Pearl of the Seas

Dive into the Taco of the Month at City Tacos this January—the Pearl of the Seas Taco!

This flavorful creation features tempura-battered scallops paired with a veggie medley of onion, tomato, corn, and Mexican squash. Topped with house green salsa and served on a flour tortilla, it’s a fresh and delicious way to kick off the year.

The Pearl of the Seas Taco is available for $5.95 at all seven City Tacos locations, including Downtown, Encinitas, La Mesa, North Park, Ocean Beach, Pacific Beach, and Sorrento Valley.

Stop by and savor this coastal-inspired taco while it lasts!


San Diego’s Premier Secret Dinner Series is Happening Now!

Discover The Blank Table, presented by Blue Bridge Hospitality. This one-of-a-kind event offers a five-course dinner paired with curated cocktails at a stunning secret venue revealed just before the event.

Helmed by Chefs Matt Sramek and Ronnie Schwandt, expect exceptional flavors from the team behind iconic venues like Stake Chophouse & Bar and Little Frenchie.

More than a dining experience, this event supports Feeding San Diego, combining culinary artistry with community impact.

Mark your calendar for January 30, 2025, from 6 PM to 9 PM. The event will take place at a secret venue, with the location revealed via email prior to the evening.

🎟️ Tickets are available now here.

The Craving

Caymus Vineyards’ 50th Anniversary at Sea & Sky

Join Sea & Sky, the penthouse-level restaurant at Hotel La Jolla, for an exclusive Caymus Wine Dinner honoring the 50th anniversary of Napa Valley’s renowned Caymus Vineyards.

Executive Chef Ernest Lopez presents a five-course dinner paired with iconic Caymus wines, set against breathtaking Pacific Ocean views. The evening begins with tray-passed canapés and Emmolo Sparkling Wine, followed by:

  • Scallop Crudo with Cara Cara orange, coconut, and crispy ginger, paired with Emmolo Sauvignon Blanc.
  • Local Halibut with littleneck clams and artichokes, paired with Mer Soleil Chardonnay.
  • Kabocha Squash Agnolotti with parmesan cream and truffle, paired with Sea Sun Pinot Noir.
  • Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb, paired with Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon ‘50th Anniversary’.
  • Chocolate & Cherry Dessert, paired with Red Schooner Malbec “Voyage 12”.

Celebrate Caymus’ legacy with a raffle for a liter bottle of Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon.

Thursday, January 30 | 5:30 PM | Sea & Sky

🎟️ Tickets are $105 per person (tax and gratuity not included) with free parking. Reservations required via OpenTable.


Celebrate Mardi Gras With Arely’s French Bakery

Get ready for Mardi Gras with Arely’s French Bakery’s King Cakes, a festive and delicious tradition! Crafted with puff pastry and almond paste, these cakes are a must-try from this renowned Clairemont bakery, celebrated for its artistry and tradition.

King Cakes are available in three sizes:

  • 8″ (serves 8–12) for $34.50
  • 10″ (serves 12–15) for $38.75
  • 12″ (serves 20–25) for $46.50

Orders require at least 24 hours notice, so don’t wait to bring this iconic treat to your Mardi Gras celebrations!


Outstanding in the Field Dinner at Peads & Barnetts Farm

Experience a stunning farm-to-table feast at Peads & Barnetts Farm in Valley Center. This event highlights sustainable farming and exceptional food in a breathtaking outdoor setting.

Chef Brian Redzikowski of Kettner Exchange will craft a five-course menu inspired by the farm’s fresh, organic offerings paired with wines from Habit Wine Co.

Dine among native plants, enjoy ethically raised pork, and connect with fellow food lovers!

Saturday, February 15 | 2 PM | Peads & Barnetts Farm

🎟️ Tickets: $385. Get yours here!

Read more here.


See you there, San Diego!

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AKA in Gaslamp Quarter, which just made its debut in the space that was the former home of Lavo, is setting out to revolutionize Asian-inspired...