The Craving: December 4 – 10

Kensington’s French Haven Doubles Down on Happy Hour Delights

Bleu Bohème‘s beloved happy hour just got better. The charming Kensington bistro has expanded its Heure Sociale to run Tuesday through Saturday from 5 PM to 6 PM, dishing out French classics at neighborhood-friendly prices.

For $16.95, dive into their most-loved plates like the Moules à la Moutarde, where plump mussels swim in a country Dijon mustard wine sauce with crème frâiche.

The same price point brings you their heavenly Gnocchi à la Parisienne—pillowy Gruyère dumplings dancing with cremini mushrooms, asparagus, and charred cherry tomatoes in romesco and beurre blanc. Don’t skip the Tartine du Saumon Fumé, a sophisticated smoked salmon croustade topped with goat cheese cream.

The drink specials are equally enticing. Signature martinis ($11.95) include their show-stopping Basil Martini with fresh herbs and citrus, while champagne cocktails ($8.95) like the Kir Royal with crème de cassis add that perfect French touch.

Find the full Heure Sociale menu on their website here.

A Boozy New Take on a San Diego Classic

Karl Strauss celebrates their flagship Red Trolley Ale’s 35th birthday with a bold new twist—Imperial Red Trolley, an amped-up 8.7% ABV version bursting with deep caramel and rich toffee notes. Catch this draft-only special at their 4S Ranch, Carlsbad, and Sorrento Mesa brewpubs, plus select spots across the county.

The beefed-up brew packs more hops and a bigger body than its iconic predecessor. Bonus holiday deal: Score a free $10 bonus card with a $50 gift card purchase, or $20 bonus with a $100 card—valid for beer, food, merch, and to-go brews.

The High Tides Are Rolling Back to Marine Room

The Marine Room‘s legendary High Tide Brunch Buffet makes its grand return December 14 and 15, transforming this dinner-only destination into a morning paradise from 7 AM to 12 PM.

The oceanfront stunner is rolling out a holiday-inspired feast where the waves literally crash against your window as you dive into fresh seafood and seasonal favorites. It’s a rare chance to experience this iconic spot in full daylight, with morning sunlight dancing across the dining room while the tide puts on a show.

This exclusive comeback brunch runs $80 for adults and $45 for kids, with an option to add bottomless champagne. Grab your reservations here before this limited-time experience sells out.

That’s What She Said: Office Trivia Hits Park 101

Channel your inner Dunder Mifflin expert at Park 101‘s Office-themed trivia night this Tuesday, December 10. Starting at 7 PM, put your Scranton knowledge to the test while sipping on $5 Pacificos—and yes, you get to keep the glass.

Whether you know every detail of Jim’s pranks or can quote all of Michael’s greatest hits, this is your chance to prove you’re the ultimate Office superfan. Get there early to snag your spot—like Michael’s “World’s Best Boss” mug, these seats won’t last long.

Holiday Scoops Land at Stella Jean’s Across San Diego

Stella Jean’s is dropping their winter ice cream line this Friday (December 6) and these flavors are straight-up holiday magic. The small-batch ice cream masters are rolling out four festive creations across their five San Diego spots—from University Heights to The Cottages in Carlsbad.

Get ready for Peppermint Chocolate Bark loaded with candy cane bits in a vegan base, a stunning blue Olive Oil + Coconut Macaroon swirled with butterfly pea flower, a cozy Eggnog + Mexican Wedding Cookies packed with nuts and spice, and Salted Maple Banana Pudding that’s giving nostalgic holiday vibes with vanilla wafers and sweet cream.

Snag these seasonal flavors by the scoop or take home a pint—just don’t wait too long, because they’ll disappear faster than Christmas cookies on Santa’s plate.

Master Holiday Tamales with Rumorosa’s Chef Seville

Rumorosa is bringing next-level tamale game to Harbor Island on December 12. Executive Chef Marcos Seville is hosting an intimate evening at the Sheraton’s flagship restaurant where you’ll master the art of tamale-making before diving into an epic Cali-Baja feast.

Starting at 5:30 PM, Chef Marcos reveals his secrets for perfect masa, wrapping techniques, and steaming methods. You’ll craft a dozen tamales to take home, plus score a recipe book and Rumorosa apron to keep the tamale magic flowing in your own kitchen.

Then comes the real party—a family-style spread paired with killer Cali-Baja wines. We’re talking spicy cotija guacamole with pomegranate, local Baja ceviche, Chef’s signature tamales, Pacific seabass Veracruz, mole-drenched organic chicken, prime NY strip, and house-made seasonal desserts.

Snag your spot for $135—includes the class, wine-paired dinner, take-home goodies, and all the tamale knowledge you can handle. Book through Eventbrite.

Score a One-of-a-Kind Whiskey Gift at The Whiskey House

The Whiskey House, San Diego’s Guinness World Record holder for most whiskey varieties, offers an exclusive holiday treat this Thursday, December 5.

From 4 PM to 7 PM, snag a custom-engraved bottle of The Dalmore 12 for just $75. This Highland Single Malt, aged in ex-Bourbon casks and finished in rare Oloroso Sherry barrels, comes from the legendary Dalmore distillery, crafting exceptional spirits since 1839.

A professional engraver will be on-site to personalize your bottle at downtown’s premier whiskey destination.

Parking tip: Find spots on the street or at ABM’s BOSA Island Lot (450 2nd Avenue).

Double Your Holiday Joy at March and Ash’s Food Drive Kickoff

Make your shopping count this season as March and Ash launches their powerhouse Holiday Food Drive on Friday, December 6! Partner with San Diego County’s largest hunger-relief champion, the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank, by dropping off crucial items at March and Ash’s Mission Valley or Vista spots.

They’re collecting everything from canned meats and veggies to infant formula and supplement shakes – bring 5+ items and score a sweet 20% discount on your same-day purchase!

It’s your chance to make a real difference in local families’ lives while treating yourself to something special. Now that’s holiday spirit done right!

Novo Brazil’s New Group Feast Packages Hit All Three Locations

Novo Brazil Brewing Company brings the party with four epic buffet packages across their Imperial Beach, Mission Valley, and Otay Ranch brewpubs.

Choose your feast: dive into empanadas and wings with Basic Mingling, keep it light with Happy & Healthy bowls and wraps, score big with Game Time’s loaded burgers and Brazilian mac, or go all-in with For Meat Lovers’ premium steaks and skewers.

The 10-year-strong brewery’s newest spot in Mission Valley makes group dining a breeze.

Sneaky-Good Staples Make Hidden Foods a Holiday Hit

This mom-founded brand is revolutionizing pantry essentials by packing them with secret veggie power. Hidden Foods‘ lineup—from their slow-cooked Sicilian-style marinara to their crave-worthy Cinnamon Churro pancake mix—cleverly sneaks in nutritious gems like spinach, sweet potato, and pumpkin.

Every product is pediatrician and nutritionist-approved, with zero added sugars. The marinara sauce channels authentic family recipes while hiding wholesome veggies, and their breakfast mixes turn morning routines into something kids actually look forward to (while parents secretly celebrate the nutrition win).

Find these stealth-health heroes at Seaside Market, select Sprouts locations, local independent grocers, or on Amazon. They’re perfect for holiday cooking or gifting to that health-conscious foodie in your life who refuses to sacrifice flavor.

A Delicious Way to Give Back at Glass Box

Get ready for a night where amazing food meets an even better cause! Glass Box at Del Mar Sky Deck is turning their legendary culinary skills into community impact this December—dishing up an exclusive four-course feast where 60% of every ticket goes straight to supporting the Cystic Fibrosis community.

The incredible $65 menu (seriously, what a steal!) showcases Executive Chef Ethan Yang’s talent for blending flavors and warming hearts. Starting December 11 from 6 PM to 8 PM, you’ll dive into a fresh asparagus salad drizzled with sesame vinaigrette, followed by an absolutely stunning eight-piece sashimi tasting.

The main event? A mouthwatering duo of perfectly grilled beef filet and Thai-style crab cake alongside seasonal veggies. And just when you think it can’t get better—boom!—a surprise dessert from Chef Yang himself.

“At Glass Box, we believe in not just creating memorable dining experiences but also giving back to the community,” says Yang. Every dollar raised helps the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation continue their game-changing research and care.

Snag your spot on Eventbrite.

Miss B’s Mixes Holiday Magic With Tropical Flair

Mission Beach’s favorite tiki haven, Miss B’s Coconut Club, is serving up holiday spirit with an island twist! Their festive cocktail lineup (running through January 1) perfectly blends beachy vibes with seasonal cheer.

The Caribbean-inspired Coquito brings Christmas in a glass, mixing house rum with creamy coquito over ice. Christmas in Cali sparkles with reposado tequila, tropical fruit, and cava, topped with a snowy dusting of powdered sugar.

When the ocean breeze gets chilly, warm up with the Toddy or Nice, a cozy blend of tequila, pear liqueur, and cinnamon agave, or the decadent Jamaican Hot Coco topped with whipped cream and caramel.

Don’t miss the showstopping Santa Slay, served in a festive tiki mug—it’s a rum-based tropical creation that proves Santa definitely knows how to party island-style!

A Holiday Feast Meets Breakfast at Spill the Beans

Spill the Beans has wrapped all your favorite holiday flavors into one epic December creation. Their limited-time Cranberry & Brie Bagel perfectly pairs sweet and savory holiday vibes, available at their Gaslamp Quarter, Seaport Village, and Mission Valley spots throughout December.

This festive treat starts with a specially crafted bagel infused with cranberries, garlic, and rosemary, crowned with melty brie cheese. But the magic doesn’t stop there—it’s served with their house-made Garlic & Herb cream cheese, a rich blend of parmesan, fresh herbs, and black pepper that turns each bite into a mini holiday feast.

Catch this creative seasonal mashup all month long—it’s definitely worth getting out of bed for.

Understory Bar Brings Mountain Magic to Del Mar

Understory Bar is trading coastal vibes for cozy alpine charm with The Alpine Affair, an exclusive après-ski experience running December 12 through January 4. The Del Mar hotspot’s transformation pairs the best of mountain culture with San Diego sophistication—no snow gear required!

This immersive winter hideaway brings the spirit of high-altitude happy hours to life Thursday through Saturday evenings. The $170 ticket unlocks a five-course journey featuring Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey alongside expertly crafted plates.

Think delicate Tuna Tartare, savory Grilled Lamb Lollipops, and melt-in-your-mouth Braised Short Ribs, each matched with creative cocktails like the Winter Wonderland and Après Avalanche.

“The Alpine Affair is all about escaping to a world of cozy indulgence and bold flavors,” says owner Scott Slater.

“It’s not just a meal, but an immersive experience that captures the true essence of après-ski—where you shed the chill of winter and immerse yourself in warmth, laughter, and shared stories, all while enjoying top-tier whiskey and culinary artistry.”

Ready to après your way through the holidays? Catch this mountain-inspired magic at Understory’s El Camino Real location from 4 PM until close.

The San Diego skyline has a stunning new star! Communion has landed in Mission Hills, turning the rooftop at 901 W. Washington into the city’s most buzzworthy dining destination. This isn’t just dinner—it’s an entire vibe with knockout views and killer cocktails.

Talk about a power duo in the kitchen! Executive Chef Mike Moritz (the culinary mastermind from Mille Fleurs and Mister A’s) is teaming up with pastry wizard Aly Lyng, who made dessert dreams come true at George’s at the Cove. Together, they’re serving up pure magic.

The menu? It’s a total feast for the senses! Luxurious Kaluga caviar lounges on perfectly fluffy buckwheat blinis, while the mind-blowing plant-based beet “filet” has even die-hard meat lovers doing double takes.

Local Escondido mushrooms get cozy on the silkiest parmesan polenta ever, and the seabass swimming in aromatic tom yum broth? Next level delicious!

The cocktail game is just as epic—sip on the sophisticated Sherry Sherry Lady with its perfect blend of brandy, sherries, and blackberry thyme shrub, or go tropical with the Shakti’s divine coconut gin and pandan mix.

Score your spot through Tock or their website here—doors open daily at 4 PM.

The Smoking Gun Extends Food Drive Through December

The Smoking Gun‘s partnership with Feeding San Diego just got bigger. Their successful canned food drive will now run through the end of December, giving you more time to make a difference while potentially scoring a sweet reward.

Drop off your unexpired cans (think chili, ravioli, chicken, soup, or tuna) at this downtown hot spot, and each donation gets you a raffle ticket for a chance to win a $100 gift card. More donations mean more chances to win—all while helping feed our San Diego community.

PB’s Coziest Holiday Pop-Up Returns to Duck Dive

Duck Dive is decking their Pacific Beach halls for the Great Dickens Holiday Cocktail Pop-Up, kicking off November 30. Think twinkling lights, festive vibes, and enough holiday magic to make even Scrooge crack a smile.

This year’s cocktail lineup is pure winter wonderland in a glass. Sip on the Berry Christmas, Everyone! (a dreamy mix of Absolut Elyx and St. Germaine with blueberry cordial), warm up with the mulled wine-based Scrooged, or gather your crew for The Great Dickens—a Santa punch bowl of vodka and spiced apple cider that serves four.

The holiday munchies are just as festive: dive into a decadent Baked Brie wrapped in puff pastry, the crowd-favorite Duckin’ Onion bloom, or pan-fried Brussels sprouts loaded with bacon and goat cheese.

Mavericks Beach Club Sparkles With Holiday Spirit

Pacific Beach’s party paradise has gone full festive! Mavericks Beach Club is decking all five of their bars with an eye-popping holiday makeover—we’re talking 10,000 feet of twinkling lights and 5,000 feet of lush garland, creating five totally unique Christmas vibes under one roof.

Starting December 1, each indoor and outdoor space rocks its own holiday personality, complete with a menu of seasonal sips that’ll have you feeling extra merry. The massive venue’s transformation turns Mavericks into PB’s most spectacular holiday hangout, lighting up the neighborhood all December long.

Whether you’re bar-hopping between themed spaces or settling into your favorite festive corner, this is where beach vibes meet holiday magic!

Little Italy’s superstar, Monello, just dropped a happy hour menu that’s basically a first-class ticket to Milan! This award-winning spot is turning weekdays into mini-vacations from 3 PM to 5:30 PM.

Dive into feather-light Raspadura cheese flakes on hot-from-the-oven bread ($9), crispy calamari ($10), and the ultimate Italian street food star—Piadina Parma rolls bursting with creamy burrata and silky prosciutto ($11).

Beverage mastermind Ryan Andrews is shaking things up with the Hugo Spritz—a bubbling beauty of St-Germain, Prosecco, and peach purée.

Craving vino? Italian wines start at just $9, and the alcohol-free Crodino Spritz ($8) brings all the sophistication without the spirits.

Catch this slice of Italian heaven at 750 W Fir Street or call (619) 450-4786.

Fort Oak is going full North Pole glam with “Snowed In,” turning their bar into the most magical snow globe you’ve ever stepped into! This festive cocktail wonderland sparkles from November 25 through December 31, 5 PM to 11:30 PM.

Cocktail wizard Jess Stewart is unleashing pure holiday joy in liquid form. Santa Slaps (yes, that’s the real name!) takes your basic espresso martini and decks it out with vodka, cold brew, chai, vanilla, cream, and amaretto.

Missing summer? The Vacay Holiday brings the beach to your winter with spiced rum and passion fruit. When the temp drops below 70 (brr!), wrap your hands around the Big Nic Energy—a soul-warming hug of Maker’s Mark Christmas Spirit and spiced apple cider.

With twelve seasonal sips served in what feels like your own private snow globe, this is the winter escape San Diego didn’t know it needed!

City Tacos Serves Up December’s Perfect Catch

The Pescadilla Taco is swimming into City Tacos this December, bringing seafood lovers a crave-worthy twist on the classic tuna melt. This $4.75 creation starts with smoky tuna machaca, mingling with tender potatoes, fresh garlic, tomatoes, onions, briny capers, and olives—all wrapped in a crispy corn tortilla.

The finishing touches? A fresh crunch of cabbage, zesty pico de gallo, creamy chipotle aioli, and a snow of cotija cheese. Catch this ocean-inspired treat at any of City Tacos’ seven spots across San Diego County—from the bustling East Village to breezy Ocean Beach and everywhere in between.

Cellar Hand Launches ‘Hand Made’ Series with Star Winemaker

Hillcrest’s wine haven Cellar Hand kicks off their new artisan series on December 12 with Pali Wine Co.‘s celebrated winemaker Aaron Walker. From 4 PM to 8 PM, Walker’s pouring four standout Central Coast wines, including Pali’s rare estate-grown Chenin Blanc – the only one currently produced in Sta. Rita Hills.

Chef Logan Kendall’s crafting exclusive pairings for each pour, perfectly complementing Walker’s lineup of Chenin Blanc, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Pfeffer, and Syrah. Snag the wine flight for $45, or go all-in with paired bites for $90 total. The full menu’s available too.

Book your spot on OpenTable for this first taste of Cellar Hand’s celebration of California’s finest producers.

Pop the Cork at Gelson’s Epic Champagne Party

Laurent-Perrier champagne is swooping into Gelson’s Del Mar for the most incredible bubbly bash of the season! On December 4, Executive Chef Tony Dang is unleashing a four-course feast that pairs perfectly with France’s finest fizz from 6 PM to 8 PM.

Get ready for a flavor explosion: mouthwatering Sriracha shrimp and luxurious triple cream cheese dancing with La Cuvée Brut, followed by silky toro crudo and antipasto skewers vibing with the legendary Cuvée Rosé.

Then comes the show-stopping lobster salad and cashew chicken with Blanc de Blanc Nature before the grand finale—duck confit and caviar-crowned deviled eggs alongside the ultra-fancy Grand Siècle!

Only 36 lucky souls can join this champagne paradise, so don’t sleep on snagging tickets! $85 (plus tax) scores your spot at this luxe party, but you’ve got to book by December 1. Visit Gelson’s website here.

North County’s Italian Scene Sizzles With Amalfi’s New Oceanside Spot

Oceanside’s Cleveland Street just scored major foodie points with Amalfi Cucina Italiana‘s dazzling new location. This spot is serving up some serious coastal Italian magic.

Leading the kitchen dream team is founder Emiliano Muslija, alongside rockstar Executive Chef Marcello Avitabile and Pizza Chef Joseph Serra—the masterminds behind San Diego Magazine’s “Best Pizza” winner.

Their Roman-style pizzas are already turning heads with that perfect crackly-thin crust, while imported mozzarella, artful bruschetta, and farm-fresh salads round out the mouthwatering menu. (Psst… 2025 brings their famous Neapolitan pizzas too!)

Snag all details here.

Santa Surfs into City Tacos OB

The most chill Santa photo-op in San Diego is popping up at City Tacos’ OB Playground! On Sunday, December 8, Santa’s trading his sleigh for something even cooler—a decked-out 1972 Volkswagen Kombi in full holiday mode.

From 1 PM to 3 PM, bring the whole crew (furry friends included!) for free professional photos with the big guy himself. The best part? Your pics will hit the web within 48 hours with no mall lines or wallet-busting prices in sight. This is pure OB magic—laid-back, pet-friendly, and totally free!

La Jolla’s Next Culinary Hit Stars a World Pasta Champ

North Park’s beloved Cori Trattoria team is expanding to La Jolla. Chef Accursio Lota and Corinne Goria are bringing their coastal Italian expertise to UCSD’s Theatre District, right by the La Jolla Playhouse.

The 4,000-square-foot space, designed by the Bells & Whistles team (Jeune et Jolie, Animae), will feature an open kitchen and spacious patio. Expect house-made everything—from fresh pasta to gelato—plus special pre-theater menus inspired by Playhouse productions.

Coming summer 2025 to 9165 Scholars Drive South, this unnamed venture brings serious credentials—Cori Trattoria holds three consecutive Tre Forchette awards from Gambero Rosso.

Click here to read more.

Pizza with Purpose at Village Pizzeria

Village Pizzeria is winning the holiday giving game with an insane deal—drop off a donation for PAWS of Coronado and they’ll slash ANY pizza by 50%! That’s right, feed your soul AND score half-off their legendary pies through December 24. Talk about a win-win that’ll make your taste buds and karma sing.

But wait—2024 is about to get even more epic with their new “Yappy Hours” dropping in January. Every second Thursday, their Bayside spot transforms into the ultimate dog paradise. We’re talking adoptable cuties, serious pet lover vibes, and a power collab with Lil’ Piggy’s and Coronado Coffee Co.

Come hang with the goodest boys and girls while crushing some of San Diego’s most fire pizza. This is about to be your new monthly obsession!

North Italia Releases New Fall/Winter Menu

North Italia is welcoming sweater weather with some seriously comforting additions hitting tables on October 30. The modern Italian spot is rolling out their most ambitious seasonal menu yet, including their first-ever baked lasagna for dine-in.

The new lineup stars a cozy Lasagna Bianca Al Forno loaded with Grana Padano bechamel and a lunch-only Hot Italian Stromboli packed with Calabrese salami and Italian sausage.

For lighter fare, there’s a seasonal veggie salad featuring butternut squash and Brussels sprouts, plus a stunning Burrata Di Stagione with red wine-poached pears.

The drink menu’s getting a fall makeover too. Sip on the new Turino Old Fashioned with rye and hazelnut, or keep it alcohol-free with house-made mocktails like the Limonata Rossa. Save room for the Pumpkin Praline Butter Cake—it’s topped with toasted mallow and white chocolate crema.

These new dishes land at all locations next Wednesday.

Cloak & Petal Rolls Out Maki Mondays Deal

Little Italy’s stylish sushi spot Cloak & Petal spices up Monday nights with a tempting offer at their front bar. From 7 PM to close, snag signature maki rolls for just $12 each.

The lineup stars creative combinations like the Saucy Boi with panko shrimp and spicy tuna and Shibuya Nights featuring salmon and lemon thins with yuzu honey aioli.

Plant-based diners aren’t left out—the Miso Vegan roll wraps tempura purple sweet potato with fresh asparagus and crispy onions. For a zesty kick, try the Cesar Chavez roll with pepper-crusted tuna and serrano ponzu sauce.

L55 Brings MICHELIN-Level Tacos to UTC Without the Fuss

Those incredible tacos from LOLA 55 (San Diego’s only MICHELIN Bib Gourmand taqueria) just got a chill little sister spot at Westfield UTC. L55 Tacos & More is serving up the same mind-blowing flavors in a more casual setting, making it dangerously easy to satisfy those Mexican food cravings while shopping.

Chef Daniel Soto (formerly of Mexico City’s two-MICHELIN-starred Pujol) is behind the creative menu that puts a Cal-Mex spin on traditional flavors.

The star player? A Black Chicken Tinga that transforms the classic Puebla dish with a smoky charcoal sauce, topped with creamy avocado mousse and zingy pickled veggies. Plant-based eaters, don’t sleep on the Mushroom Barbacoa—it’s a savory triumph that might just convert the carnivores.

The bright 2,800-square-foot space feels fresh and modern with its seafoam walls and millennial pink seating, plus a sweet patio setup for those perfect San Diego afternoons. Keep an eye out for the upcoming full bar program featuring an Ube Marg that’s definitely going to hit your feed.

Find L55 at 4301 La Jolla Village Dr, now open daily for lunch and dinner. Follow along on Instagram for the latest updates.

Breakfast Republic Now Feeding Holiday Hope All Month Long

The heartwarming holiday collab between Breakfast Republic and Magic 92.5’s Christmas Wish just got even better. What started as a week-long campaign is now extending through December at their Encinitas spot, with 100% of proceeds from two killer dishes going to families in need.

Here’s the delicious deal: Order the Breakfast Jambalaya (loaded with shrimp, Portuguese Linguisa sausage, and three eggs any style over a bed of perfectly seasoned rice) or the plant-based Jammin’ Bennie (featuring a mouth-watering blackberry-jalapeño jam and vegan hollandaise sauce).

Every single penny from these dishes goes straight to Magic 92.5’s Christmas Wish program, continuing their years-long tradition of spreading holiday cheer.

Ready to make your breakfast count? Swing by 251 N El Camino Real in Encinitas. Good food, good karma—now that’s something worth waking up for!

Holiday Party Dreams Come True at PB’s Newest Dining Gem

Slowly Restaurant & Lounge is transforming its stunning Garnet Avenue space into Pacific Beach’s most coveted holiday party destination. This fresh face on the PB dining scene is serving up holiday magic with a drool-worthy three-course prix fixe menu at $65 per person.

The seasonal feast kicks off with vibrant choices like their showstopping carrot salad (think heirloom carrots, asparagus, and zesty Fresno chili) or their elevated Caesar.

For mains, Chef Yadira’s herb-marinated chicken steals the show alongside options like roasted maitake mushrooms and seasonal risotto. Sweet endings feature pay de queso and house-made gelato.

The space itself? Pure Instagram gold. Think plush green banquettes, gleaming gold accents, and local artwork bringing the walls to life. Whether you’re vibing on their fire pit-dotted patio or getting cozy in the main dining room (seats 65), Slowly’s got the perfect spot for your crew.

Ready to plan your holiday bash? Slide into their DMs here or hit them up at 858-352-6080.

Duck the Halls at Lionfish This Christmas Eve

Get ready for a Christmas Eve feast that’ll make your season extra merry—Lionfish at the Pendry is serving up pure holiday magic with a twist!

Superstar Executive Chef JoJo Ruiz (rocking that James Beard Smart Catch leadership) is blessing us with a Large Cast Iron special: gloriously roasted duck, next-level duck confit stuffing, creamy harvest mashed potatoes, and the fluffiest butter biscuits you can imagine—all for $75.

Just remember to snag your spot between 5 PM to 9 PM on December 24 (last seating at 8)!

And the holiday cocktail game? Absolutely next level! Sip on the PSM (Pumpkin Spice Martini)—a cozy blend of Tres Generaciones Reposado tequila and house-made pumpkin spice goodness.

Or dive into the gorgeous Sanguinello with Japanese Roku gin and blood orange, the festive Cranberry Plan, or the bold and beautiful Spiced Saloon rocking High West bourbon and persimmon purée. Each holiday drink is $19 and worth every penny.

Regular dinner service keeps rolling through the season (except Christmas Day), with doors open nightly from 5 PM and late-night vibes Thursday through Saturday.

Holiday Sushi Magic Returns to Encinitas Hotspot

Temaki Bar is decking the halls with something way better than holly—their legendary Merry Maki menu is back at their Highway 101 location! The award-winning Encinitas sushi destination (hello, Best of North County 2024 winner!) is rolling out festive flavors all December long.

This year’s holiday lineup is pure flavor fireworks. Kick things off with the “Brussels All the Way!” ($12)—crispy Brussels sprouts dancing with sweet chili and furikake.

The show-stopping Bomb Squad handroll ($13) features cedar-smoked Skye Steelhead trout with honey mustard miso, while the Turboman roll ($23) brings the party with krab, tempura, and yellowfin tuna topped with brûléed yuzu kosho.

The holiday nigiri selection ($12 each) includes flavor bombs like yellowfin with yuzu kosho aioli and hamachi with black garlic ponzu. Wash it all down with Soonhari Apple Mango Soju ($16), Santa’s Little Helper imperial stout ($9), or Celebration IPA ($6).

Catch these festive flavors at 575 S. Coast Highway 101. Open Sunday to Thursday 11 AM to 9 PM and Friday to Saturday 11 AM to 10 PM from December 1 to 31.