The Dish: May 1 – 7
The Dish is your source for the latest menu updates, new cocktail programs, happy hours, and special offers from San Diego’s best restaurants and bars!
Cinco De Mayo Specials Around San Diego
Get ready to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in style with specials from your favorite restaurants and bars across San Diego!
More information can be found here.
Sandpiper’s New Shareable Items
Sandpiper Wood Fired Grill & Oysters‘ Executive Chef Marty Fay has introduced new shareable items to his dinner menu, including Hamachi Tiradito (leche de tigre, cancha, cilantro), Albacore Poke (spicy shoyu, scallion, sesame, prawn crackers), and Jumbo Asparagus (hollandaise, chervil).
Then on the dessert menu, Chocolate Flan Parisienne has been added. Sandpiper is open for dinner seven nights a week beginning at 4 PM with happy hour specials until 5:30 PM. Reservations can be made here.
Postino WineCafé Opens Two San Diego Locations in Little Italy and Del Mar
Postino, the all-day restaurant and wine café known for its cult-like following, welcoming hospitality, and inspired spaces—is making its anticipated entry into San Diego with the opening of two locations this Spring, one in the city’s lively Little Italy neighborhood and another in Del Mar’s One Paseo urban village.
Postino has become synonymous with serving as the perfect date night spot, host for your everyday happy hour, and gathering space for friends and family to catch up over great food and drink — all thanks to their simple yet powerful mission to “Make People Feel Good.”
Postino WineCafé is located at 2100 Kettner in Little Italy and is now open, and will open May 11th at Del Mar’s One Paseo.
More information can be found here.
Friendly Feast’s All-Star Bake Sale is Live!
The Friendly Feast All-Star Bake Sale showcases delicious signature sweets created by influential pastry chefs for a great cause!
The lineup of goodies looks amazing!
- Banana bread coffee cake with almonds and espresso mascarpone
By Jeremy Harville, TRUST Restaurant Group - Luxardo cherry cream cheese brioche bun
By Kari Cota, Kimpton Alma Hotel - Ube and young coconut hand pie with pandan coconut glaze
By Gan Suebsarakham, Pop Pie Co. and Stella Jean’s Ice Cream - Mini German chocolate cheesecake cake
By Faye Rodriguez, Faye’s Desserts - Strawberry, lavender, and rhubarb galette
By Adrian Mendoza, The University Club Atop Symphony Towers - Carrot cake with brown butter cream cheese frosting and candied kumquats
By Jojo Rossi, Grossmont College Culinary Arts
Friendly Feast Charity Bake Sale boxes will be available for pick up at Cardellino on Sunday, May 19, from 9:30 to 11 AM. Pickup times will be scheduled in advance via the email address associated with the payment method. Any unclaimed boxes will be donated.
Limited quantities are available, so make sure you don’t miss out!
Celebrate the Kentucky Derby with These San Diego Restaurants
barleymash!
barleymash, in the Gaslamp Quarter, is gearing up for a full day of fun for May 4th’s Kentucky Derby!
Drink specials include:
- Off to the Races – Herradura Blanco, prickly pear, lime, agave
- Derby Boy – Jack Daniels Tennessee Whiskey, grapefruit, lemon, and honey
- G.H. Mumm Champagne
- Mint Julep – Derby Edition Woodford Reserve Bourbon, mint, and sugar
$1 of each will be donated to Project Save-a-Bullie
Food specials include:
- Stewards Supper – beef, pork, and duck stew with roasted veggies and white cheddar grits
- Kentucky Puppies – duck confit, roasted corn fritter with a Woodford Reserve Bourbon Paprika Aioli
- Grandstand Frenchie – homemade pizza with bourbon brined turkey, garlic cream, bacon, roasted tomatoes, arugula, three cheese blend – served on top of focaccia
- Derby Torte – bourbon pecan chocolate torte
Prizes for “Best Dressed” include two Woodford Gift Baskets, a Golf Bag, and a $50 barleymash gift card!
Rustic Root
Located in the heart of San Diego’s iconic Gaslamp Quarter, Rustic Root brings new American Comfort food with a California twist.
Rustic Root boasts a lively rooftop for a classic San Diego dining experience with views of the bustling Gaslamp Quarter below and in honor of the 150th Kentucky Derby, Rustic Root is throwing a unique Derby Party, perfect for “the most exciting 2 minutes in sports”.
Sip on keep-the-cup cocktail specials and indulge in Kentucky favorites including Biscuits & Pimento Cheese, a Kentucky Hot Brown Flatbread, Fried Chicken Wings, and Woodford Reserve Bourbon Balls. Join Rustic Root at 2PM on May 4 for Derby games, photo ops giveaways and more.
Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine
While it’s expected that race fans will tune into the 150th Kentucky Derby on Saturday, May 4, there are also ways for people to join in on the action, outside of just watching!
Clique Hospitality’s culinary destination, Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine, will take to the races with a signature mint julep, made with Maker’s Mark bourbon, simple syrup and mint leaves, priced at $15.
Although a classic, all bets placed on this cocktail will be a surefire winner for guests.
Fifth & Rose
Located in San Diego’s vibrant Gaslamp Quarter, Pendry San Diego’s chic cocktail bar, Fifth & Rose, offers elegance and sophistication in a stylish setting.
Saddle up for a special showing of the Kentucky Derby on May 4 featuring ‘Taste of the Derby’ specials including handcrafted bourbon cocktails, fresh mint juleps, and a signature menu of small bites.
Sky Deck Celebrates Space Odyssey Month
Embark on a cosmic culinary adventure at Sky Deck, the restaurant collective nestled in Del Mar Highlands. With its “Space Odessey” theme, guests can immerse themselves in an otherworldly dining experience surrounded by futuristic decor and intergalactic vibes.
From innovative cocktails to out-of-this-world cuisine, Sky Deck promises a gastronomic journey like no other. Whether you’re sipping cocktails under the stars or indulging in a gourmet meal inspired by the cosmos, Sky Deck offers a truly celestial dining experience for all.
Click here for more info.
Black Radish’s Unveils All-New Prix Fixe Seasonal Menu
North Park’s Black Radish — one of our favorite neighborhood gems — has unveiled a new menu showcasing the restaurant’s dedication to local ingredients that are freshest and most in-season.
The menu is best enjoyed through the restaurant’s four-course prix fixe option, featuring a variety of genuinely unique dishes.
Sstandout menu items, including:
- Bolzano Tomato Bisque, with sweet onion, turmeric, parmigiano reggiano, and crispy sunchoke
- Duck a L’orange, accompanied by carrot puree, pickled caracara orange, and khorasan berry
- Holishkes, made with savoy cabbage, buckwheat, spring vegetables, and fresh herbs
And, of course, there will be wine!
Black Radish is located at 2591 University Ave, San Diego. For more info and to view the full menu, click here. For updates, follow them on Instagram.
Progressive Happy Hour at Common Theory
Common Theory Public House’s new Otay Ranch location has introduced a progressive Happy Hour with increased discounts the earlier in the day guests partake. It’s $1 off all draft beers from 5 PM to 6 PM, $2 off from 4 PM to 5 PM, and $3 off from 3 PM to 4 PM.
Select wines are also discounted throughout the entire three-hour window. Food also is discounted throughout the happy hour with most dishes $2 off, including Pretzel Balls, Duck Fat Fries, and Buffalo Cauliflower.
Happy Hour Seven Days a Week? RustiCucina Says “Yes!”
Starting Friday, May 3, RustiCucina will offer happy hour seven days a week! The Sunday through Thursday happy hour from 4 PM to 6 PM will now be accompanied by Friday and Saturday happy hour from 3 PM to 5 PM (at the bar or patio; walk-ins only).
The happy hour menu features 50% off build-your-own-pasta, a $5-10 Aatipasto section with inclusions like Calamari, Crispy Burrata, Fiori Di Zucca, Truffle Fries, Romaine Salad, and Polpette Della Nonna.
“Sip” back and relax with $4 house red and white wines, beers, and well drinks, $5 red and white sangria, and $6 specialty cocktails!
Skywalker Soiree at The Original 40 – North Park
North Park’s The Original 40 Brewing Company is hosting the Skywalker Soiree on May the 4 with a Star Wars-themed costume contest, movie-themed beers, and raffles.
From 3 PM to 6 PM, come dressed as your favorite Star Wars character, and the three best costumes will receive a $100 Original 40 gift card (first place), $50 gift card (second place), and $25 gift card (third place). Prizes from the raffle include May the 4th Be With You t-shirts, glassware, and $25 gift cards.
A Family-Friendly Cinco de Mayo at Novo Brazil Brewing
Chula Vista’s NOVO Brazil Brewing Company is hosting a family-friendly Cinco de Mayo celebration on the patio of its Lane Avenue headquarters on Saturday, May 4 from 4:30 PM to 10 PM. The party is free to attend and includes music by DJ Santamaria.
Vendors on site selling food will be Aldoal Forno Pizza, La Maja Paella, PotioN7 Creamery, and Tijuana’s Tortas Washmobile by Pedro Fuentes.
The Padres game against the Arizona Diamondbacks will be shown on the large LED screen beginning at 5:10 PM, and kids can enjoy a bouncy castle and other activities.
Puppy snuggles, bagels, coffee, and more!
On Saturday, May 4, Mission Valley’s Spill the Beans will partner with Paws4Thought Animal Rescue to bring adoptable pups to their coffee shop! Guests are invited to stop in from 9 AM to 12 PM and meet these furry friends on their expansive outdoor patio.
After puppy snuggles, enjoy a variety of bagel sandos, teas, coffees, and more!
Georges at the Cove Continues Chef Alumni Dinner Series
Georges at the Cove continues its 40th anniversary chef alumni dinner series on Tuesday, May 7 with an eight-course prix fix evening with Jon Bautista, Brad Chance, and Lori Sauer.
Bautista was most recently Executive Chef of Pacific Beach’s The Fishery, Chance is Executive Chef of Hotel La Jolla’s Sea & Sky, and Sauer is Executive Pastry Chef at Café Monarch in Scottsdale, Ariz.
Reservations are required. Price is $200 per person and each party receives complimentary valet parking for one car, which is available directly in front of the restaurant. Click here.
Barrio Star’s Daily Social Hour Now Live in Bankers Hill!
Bankers Hill’s Barrio Star has announced the extension of its all-new Social Hour to seven days a week! Guests will revel in mouthwatering, irresistible drink specials daily, including $6.50 beers, $8.50 margaritas, $20 margarita flights.
Food specials will also be available seven days a week, with specials on Tacos a la Carte, Barrio Cucumbers, Chicken Chipotle Wings, and the Pequeno Bowl with carnitas, pinto beans, cheese, cilantro lime, and pico de gallo.
Social Hour is available Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 3:30 PM to 6 PM, Tuesdays from 3 PM to close, and Saturday and Sunday at the bar only from 4 PM to 6 PM.
Pre-Party Nom-noms at The Magnolia
On Sunday, May 5, join The Magnolia for an all-ages show with Steven Ho and Nurse John. This dynamic duo with a background in healthcare know how to fill a room with side-splitting laughter. With millions of followers around the globe, this is sure to be a lively evening.
Tickets available via LiveNation. Showtime is 8 PM and doors open at 7 PM. Join the Plaza Pre-Party 30 minutes before doors on the outdoor patio. Get early admission to our plaza, lobby, and taco stand with freshly made nachos, elote, specialty cocktails and more available for purchase.
The Lafayette Hotel is Esquire Magazine’s New Hotel of the Year
The Lafayette Hotel & Club has been named the 2024 New Hotel of the Year by Esquire Magazine! The recognition underscores its commitment to excellence in hospitality and design, setting a new standard for luxury accommodations — and fun — in San Diego.
The iconic Lafayette Hotel & Club reopened its doors in the buzzing neighborhood of North Park in San Diego, California. This maximalist dream was developed by CH Projects, with a $31M renovation.
The historic hotel is a two-and-a-half-acre Colonial-style hotel originally built in 1946 by entrepreneur Larry Imig as a haven for young Hollywood hosting.
The redesign was the first proper restoration of the property and designed by CH Projects and Brooklyn-based Post Company, including seven new food and beverage outlets.
Vincenzo Italian Takes Over the Former Farmer’s Table Space
The prime location that used to be occupied by The Farmer’s Table is now home to Vincenzo! Experience San Diego’s first cheese wheel bar and Aperol Spritz window bar at Vincenzo this week. Founder Vincenzo Loverso introduces a modern chic restaurant offering breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner.
Indulge in fresh pasta tossed in cheese wheels sourced from Italy, enjoy the ambiance of inviting décor, and unwind in private dining rooms for larger gatherings.
Since 1992, Loverso has shaped San Diego’s dining scene, and Vincenzo promises to continue the tradition with a fresh take on Italian cuisine. Join the culinary journey starting April 18 in the heart of Little Italy.
Bivouac Ciderworks’ Adventure Lodge Now Serving Weekend Brunch
Bivouac Ciderworks’ new Adventure Lodge & General Store has expanded its food offerings, launching weekend brunch and a snack menu.
Customers are invited to grab a seat at a communal table or Café seat along North Park’s 30th Street corridor for Bivouac Ciderworks’ Weekend Brunch, served Friday through Sunday from 10 AM to 3 PM.
The multifaceted community space now offers a rotating brunch menu to fuel the day’s adventure, including egg bites and tortilla Española (also known as a Spanish omelette).
Plus, there are two shareable “towers”—the Mezze Tower with two types of hummus, whipped feta, pita bread, fresh veggies, pickles, and falafel and the Miss Bagel Tower with all the sweet and savory fixings: three types of cream cheese, , capers, fresh veggies, and apple compote.
Welcome to Wild Child Ice Cream: Where the Fun Never Melts!
The beloved ice cream window in Mission Hills is back open and serving scoops! Wild Child Ice Cream serves ice cream and experiences inspired by the nostalgic flavors of childhood, endless summer days, and joyful screen-free activities.
The Mission Hills ice cream window in Mission Hills, once the home of Mr. Trustee Ice Cream, is located at 4033 Goldfinch Street, adjacent to Trust Restaurant Group’s Cardellino Restaurant. They’re open Tuesday to Thursday, 2 PM to 9 PM; Friday to Saturday, 12 PM to 10 PM; and Sunday, 2 PM to 9 PM.
Union Kitchen and Tap Opens Third Location in Pacific Beach
OMG Hospitality is bringing elevated dining to the heart of Pacific Beach with the opening of its third location of Union Kitchen and Tap, which has sister locations in the Gaslamp and Encinitas.
Located on Garnet Ave, just off of Mission Boulevard, the space was previously occupied by Backyard Kitchen & Tap.
The 6,000 square-foot Pacific Beach locale boasts a spacious layout with a lounge-like atmosphere offering indoor and outdoor dining options, a lively main bar with multiple TVs for sports enthusiasts to catch all the big games, and a comfortable lounge space perfect for groups and parties.
10th Anniversary Bash at OB Playground
City Tacos will host its 10th anniversary celebration on Saturday, May 4 at its Ocean Beach location, OB Playground.
Doors open an hour earlier than normal, at 10 AM, and the family-friendly day includes complimentary face painting for kids, stilt walkers, a mariachi band, and a pug meet-up (the mascot of the eatery that first opened in North Park in 2014).
All guests who bring a pug from 10 AM to 12 NN will receive a free taco. In addition, all guests can enjoy the 10th anniversary special of two tacos and a beer for $10 throughout the day.
Bleu Bohème to Thank Service Members With Discounted Dinner
Bleu Bohème will honor all active duty service members with a valid military ID by extending a 20% discount on their bill from 5 PM to 8 PM on Wednesday, May 15.
Signature selections include:
- Ravioles maison (shiitake and oyster mushroom raviolis with sautéed spinach, espelette, tomato relish, fine herbs, and white wine cream sauce)
- Confit de canard (Hudson Valley Muscovy duck leg confit with creamy goat cheese polenta, baby kale, leeks, olive relish, and sauce verte)
- Andcoquilles St. Jacques (large dry-packed sea scallops served alongside saffron lobster risotto, linguiça, English peas, fennel, and basil pistou)
An extensive selection of handcrafted cocktails, locally brewed beers, and more than 90 varieties of wine are also available.
For more information or to make a reservation, visit the website here or call 619.255.4167.
The Green Hour Comes to Life at Wormwood
Wormwood’s new happy hour is now available Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays from 5 PM to 7 PM
In 19th century Paris, absinthe was so popular that five o’clock at Parisian cafés became known as l’Heure Verte, the Green Hour. “It seems when I drink you, I inhale the young forest’s soul,” wrote French poet Raoul Ponchon.
With decadence came disapproval, then demonization. Some doctors charged that “absintheurs” were succumbing to “absinthism,” a syndrome marked by seizures and hallucinations. French anti-alcohol groups worked with viticulturists to ban it.
Today, absinthe is sold legally throughout Europe and North America. Swiss and EU producers, recognizing the drink’s seductive mystique, have even fought over ownership of the “absinthe” and “Green Fairy” labels.
At Wormwood, they are reclaiming the Green Hour—the original Happy Hour! They’ll have Absinthe, cocktails, wine specials, and a new bar bites menu! Walk-ins are accepted!
Cocktails for a Cause With Coco Maya and Miss B’s Coconut Club
Miss B’s Coconut Club and Coco Maya have both announced initiatives supporting the Big Josh Foundation, a San Diego-based non-profit focusing on providing financial support and counseling to those working in the service industry, as freelancers, or as contractors, who become diagnosed as terminally ill.
Both restaurants have created several newly crafted cocktails that will taste as good as it feels to support a great, local cause!
Join Little Italy’s Coco Maya on Wednesdays, beginning April 10, where $1 from each of the following cocktails will be donated directly to Big Josh:
- The Violet Steel with Komos Reposado Rosa, Lo-Fi Gentian Amaro, trybe, lime, and orgeat
- The Sultry Spritz, a bubbly concoction with hints of pomegranate
- The Girls Pint Out with Stella and Gentian Amaro
- The Pink & Smoky with Gentian Amaro and mezcal
- The M&M Shot
At Miss B’s Coconut Club in Mission Beach, $1 of each Lo-life cocktail will be donated every day through June 30: The Lo-life includes “Lo-Life”- Lo-Fi Gentian Amaro with light beer—a refreshing drink that pairs perfectly with Miss B’s beachside atmosphere
Smash Burger, Oysters, Frites, and Bubbles Special = Happy Meal at Herb & Sea!
Experience the vibrant vibes of Herb and Sea in Encinitas! Take advantage of Herb & Sea’s brand new happy hour, offered Tuesday through Friday from 5 PM to 6 PM, exclusively at their lively bar area.
For an unbeatable deal, indulge in the Happy Meal special, which includes a delectable Smash Burger, three Oysters, Crispy Frites, and Bubbles, all for just $20. You can also order a la carte—savor half a dozen oysters for $20, a SmashBurger for $8, and Frites for $4.
Delight in their playful cocktail and wine specials, crafted to elevate your happy hour experience with every sip. Seating at the bar is available on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive early to ensure your spot.
Enjoy an experience where every bite and sip is a celebration of the finest flavors from land and sea!
See you there, San Diego!
