Where to stay, eat and drink in San Diego
If you’re craving that laid-back SoCal vibe without the hustle of Los Angeles, San Diego might just be your new favourite spot. From next-level street tacos and knockout art galleries to buzzing cultural fests and vintage shopping galore, this coastal city has you covered. But it’s the friendly locals who truly make SD shine — they’ll point you to secret surf spots, invite you to neighbourhood street fairs, and make sure you feel right at home from day one. Get ready for sunshine, great eats, and a warm welcome that’ll leave you planning your next visit before you’ve even left.
Where we stayed
La Valencia Hotel - La Jolla
This iconic 1920s hotel is perched above the sparkling coastline of La Jolla, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Frequented by A-Listers (Kris Jenner’s a huge fan, according to the locals!) La Valencia exudes old-world charm with a Mediterranean-inspired design and lush gardens, making it a perfect spot for relaxation. La Jolla (aka the Beverly Hills of San Diego) is stunning, and La Valencia is a perfect base to explore its luxurious shops and beaches. The hotel also boasts several dining options, including La Sala and the Mediterranean Room, and they even offer a complimentary golf cart pick-up for their guests, within a mile radius.
Rooms start from £302 p/n.
Omni Hotel - Gaslamp Quarter/Downtown
The Omni Hotel is situated right in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, overlooking San Diego Bay, making it a fantastic base for exploring the busy downtown area, and is a couple minutes walk away from a trolly stop (that’s a tram stop for us Brits!) The entire hotel has recently undergone a full renovation, with rooms fully kitted out with fantastic lighting, gigantic beds, a large TV and all the modern amenities. The hotel also has a rooftop pool and bar, Tortuga, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
Rooms start from £192 p/n.
The Lafayette Hotel - North Park
Recently undergoing a multi-million-pound renovation, The Lafayette is an ultra-stylish choice in the trendy North Park area, perfect for those who love a bit of maximalist interior. It has a rich history too; built in 1946, the hotel was a favourite hot-spot among Hollywood A-Listers in the 40s and 50s, and also featured as a set in the original Top Gun. With a gigantic outdoor pool, as well as multiple bars, award-winning restaurants, a bowling alley and even a famous nightclub, Lou Lou’s, you could spend days here without needing to leave the hotel. It's in North Park, an area known for its quirky vibe, and is ideally located to explore the area’s cool bars, coffee shops, and boutique stores.
Rooms start from £185 p/n.
What to do
Soak in the city’s history at Old Town
A visit to Old Town is a must for history lovers. The area offers a charming mix of preserved historic sites and buildings, with plenty of little shops, museums, and restaurants to explore. We strolled around the Old Town State Historic Park, where we found exhibits and demonstrations from the 1800s. It’s a great spot to dive into the history and pick up some local, hand-made crafts. We were lucky enough to meet Doug in the leather shop, Lorenzo in the silver jewellery boutique and Heidi in the costume store, all of whom shared fascinating stories about the area and their experiences travelling the world. The Historic Park is also home to the Cosmopolitan Hotel, which, of course, we had to say hello to.
Immerse yourself in culture at Barrio Logan
While in Barrio Logan, we stumbled on a vibrant Dia de los Muertos celebration, which added an extra layer of colour and culture to our trip. The streets were filled with art, music and food vendors, making for an unforgettable experience. Barrio Logan is a hub of Chicano culture and a perfect spot to experience San Diego’s artistic side. Definitely pay the Barrio Logan Thrift Store a visit if you’re in the area; we found some incredible vintage pieces here, and it also doubles up as a barber shop, just in case someone may need a trim.
Visit the world-famous San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo is hailed as one of the best in the world, and we fully understand why. With over 3,500 animals from around the world, the huge inner-city zoo offers incredible exhibits, such as the Panda Canyon and Elephant Odyssey. We spent the day wandering through lush, beautifully designed enclosures and learning about the zoo’s conservation efforts. If you pay the zoo a visit, we highly recommend spending that little bit extra on a guided buggy tour. They take a couple of hours but you get a closer look at the animals, and may even get a chance to feed some of them, which is an incredible experience.
Wake up with the sea lions at La Jolla Cove
La Jolla Cove is one of the most scenic spots in San Diego. The crystal-clear waters and rugged coastline make it an ideal place for kayaking, snorkelling, or just soaking in the views. We woke up early and watched the sun rise as the sea lions lounged (very noisily) on the rocks, before enjoying a walk along the coast, saying hello to the endless dog walkers, coffee in-hand.
Get your art fix at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
If you're into art, you can’t miss the Museum of Contemporary Art in La Jolla. The museum offers an impressive collection of modern art in a minimalist setting, and it’s set in one of the most stunning locations in the city, with views over the Pacific Ocean. We spent a few hours there, taking in the innovative works and installations.
Shop and snack your way through North Park
North Park is one of the coolest neighbourhoods in San Diego, and you could easily spend a whole day strolling around. It’s jam-packed with vintage shops (Day-to-Day, Revival Vintage Eyewear, Hunt & Gather) female-owned ventures (HOME+HOUND, Artelexia) indie boutiques (Replay Toys, Pigment) and stand-out bars such as Pretzels & Pints and Part Time Lover. They have a weekly farmer’s market every Thursday, where they close off an entire street.
The community here are so passionate about shopping locally and supporting their own small businesses - everyone knows each other and is quick to recommend suggestions of places to go. It’s an area that’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon of shopping, and there are plenty of quirky spots to grab a coffee or a bite to eat. Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams serves up the wildest ice cream flavours, from Gooey Butter Cake to Wildberry Lavender. If you love a local, unique vibe, North Park is definitely the place to be.
Bowl in style at The Gutter
Situated inside The Lafayette Hotel is The Gutter, which - you guessed it - is a bowling alley. It’s not huge, with only two lanes dedicated for bowling, but it’s a luxe, private experience (nothing like your standard children’s birthday party at the arcade.) There are plenty of fabulous cocktails on offer here, too, making this the perfect spot to end your night after a meal out - it’s open until 2am daily. It’s not just bowling you can enjoy at The Gutter, t00 - they have plenty of other games to keep you entertained, from basketball hoops to pool tables.
Where we ate
Whaling Bar, La Jolla
The Whaling Bar is the oldest restaurant in La Jolla, and it’s a must-visit for anyone in the area. The scallops with a spicy kick were out of this world, and the lobster roll, served in a light brioche, was packed with tender meat. We also sampled the duck meatballs, which were a huge portion and perfect for sharing. Be sure to try the whipped ricotta for a truly memorable bite.
The Kitchen at MCASD, La Jolla
If you’re looking for a great breakfast or brunch spot, The Kitchen at MCASD is a top choice. Their breakfast burrito, stuffed with delicious crispy potatoes and served in a huge portion, is a standout. We also tried the salted maple, and vanilla lavender lattes, which were as big as they were delicious. Their chicken cobb salad is also divine, with the blue cheese adding an extra kick.
Leila, North Park
Scoring a table at Leila can feel like winning the neighbourhood lottery, but it’s worth the effort for the enchanting atmosphere alone. Designed to evoke the feel of a Moroccan courtyard, the space features a star-lit sky overhead, abundant greenery, and winding water features complete with bridges that crisscross the dining area. We were lucky enough to have Dylan as our server, who pointed us towards the standout braised lamb shoulder and zesty grilled octopus — both packed with the kind of Middle Eastern-meets-European flavours that make Leila a favourite among locals. Add in a creative cocktail list, and you’ve got a recipe for an unforgettable evening.
Callie, East Village
Helmed by chef-owner Travis Swikard — who honed his craft in top kitchens in New York City, London, and Hertfordshire — Callie brings a polished yet down-to-earth dining experience to San Diego’s East Village. Showcasing seasonal California produce and fresh seafood with a global spin, the menu might include a succulent roast chicken or a richly spiced duck ragu. There’s also a five-course tasting option if you’re up for going all in; consider adding the curated wine pairing for an even more personalised meal. Whether you’re perched at the bar or gathering around a table with friends, Callie’s blend of inventive technique and warm hospitality makes it a can’t-miss stop on the city’s culinary map.
Puesto, La Jolla
Puesto is a lively spot in La Jolla that serves up incredible Mexican food. We tried the chicharrones, and the chips and guac with a hint of orange juice were a refreshing twist. The fillet mignon, pollo asado, and carnitas were all fantastic, and we loved the yellowfin tuna crudo, which had strong, vibrant flavours. Don't miss the horchata — it’s the perfect drink to pair with your meal. Puesto also has two other locations across the city, and a few more across California.
Marisi, La Jolla
Marisi is an upscale Italian restaurant in La Jolla, offering a sophisticated dining experience with incredible service. Zack, our server started us off with olives and pickled veg, followed by a standout tuna dish with green sauce and avocado. The scallops with cucumber coulis were delicate yet flavourful, and the melon and prosciutto was a refreshing starter. For mains, we enjoyed the bolognese and carbonara, both rich and comforting. The beef fillet was tender, and the cauliflower dish was a lovely, unexpected main meal. The food here is faultless, and so are the drinks. Over in the States, the humble British Pornstar Martini isn’t a well-known cocktail, so imagine our surprise when Zack told us we *had* to try it, as it’s their special. Well, this wasn’t anything like the ones we’re used to at home, the team here had elevated it to another dimension.
Parakeet Café, various locations
For a lighter meal, Parakeet Café is an ideal spot, with multiple locations across San Diego. A definite go-to if you’re a veggie, it has tonnes of different healthy options for breakfast and lunch. We loved the chicken caesar wrap and the French omelette sandwich, which were both delicious. Don’t miss the salted maple latte — it’s a perfect pick-me-up.
Quixote, North Park
If you’re looking for a dining experience that transports you to Mexico, Quixote in North Park is the place to be. With interiors that evoke the feeling of being inside a church — think stained glass windows and soft gas lamps — this spot is as much about the atmosphere as it is about the food.
The Oaxacan-inspired dishes, particularly the moles, are rich and complex, packing a punch of flavour in every bite. Executive chef José Cepeda’s menu is jam-packed with family recipes, with each dish telling a story from his childhood. Highlights include the braised lamb belly and chichilo mole, as well as a fantastic duck dish, recommended by our server, Daniel. We also tried the spicy tuna tostada and crab corn doughnut, both, fresh and delicious. With its unique ambiance and unforgettable flavours, Quixote is a must-try for anyone in the area.
Morning Glory, Little Italy
Morning Glory in Little Italy is the ultimate brunch destination. Their soufflé pancakes, served with bananas in PJs (caramelised bananas and hazelnut) were a hit. We also enjoyed the passionfruit mimosa, which added a tropical touch to our meal. The orange vanilla hot chocolate was decadent, and the white mocha was the perfect caffeine fix. For something savoury, the American breakfast was a classic choice, and the fried rice with egg was nice, though a little on the cold side.
Bivouac Adventure Lodge and Restaurant, North Park
Bivouac is a must-visit for cider enthusiasts. Its owner, the marvellous Lara Worm, is on a mission to reinvent cider and make it just as popular in the US as it is in the UK. The former attorney owns this unique camping-inspired space that combines a co-working area, general store, brewery, and restaurant that has such an incredible community feel to it. We enjoyed a cider tasting and were blown away by their unique flavours, from Orange Mango Guava (OMG), to Pumpkin Spice, and Strawberry Hibiscus. Their restaurant is not to be looked over either, with hearty sandos, tacos and wings to keep you satisfied. Lara and Jordan’s (Bivouac’s brewer) passion for cider and commitment to sustainability makes this a standout spot.
Youngblood, East Village
For a cocktail adventure unlike any other, head to Youngblood in San Diego’s East Village. Accessed through a faux refrigerator door, this tiny hidden speakeasy invites you in with velvet seating and warm, rosy lighting. You’ll need a pre-paid ticket for a 90-minute session, which includes three bespoke cocktails, crafted to your personal tastes (though you can always add on more if you’re feeling adventurous). Ewan and Zach guided us through the experience, offering spot-on recommendations that matched our preferences perfectly. There’s no menu here — bartenders draw on their encyclopaedic knowledge to tailor each drink. Between the playful décor, the intimate vibe, and the choose-your-own-adventure cocktails, Youngblood delivers a memorable night out you won’t find anywhere else.
Ponyboy, La Playa
One of San Diego’s newest restaurants, Ponyboy transports you back to the 50s. Set inside the chic Pearl Hotel, the mid-century hotel is an interior lover’s dream. The outside seating is all situated around the hotel’s small, kidney-shaped pool, and all diners can enjoy some throwback cartoons playing on a giant projector screen. If it sounds quirky, that’s because it is. The food, however, is nothing to be scoffed at. This is fine dining in a chilled setting, and it’s seriously impressive. The Jidori Chicken Kyiv is a must-try, as is the Ambrosia Salad. Maybe it’s the Brit in me but I couldn’t wrap my head around marshmallows in a salad. It shouldn’t work, but it does.
Beginner’s Diner, North Park
Also situated inside The Lafayette, and open 24/7, Beginner’s Diner feels like a 1940s eatery that’s stood the test of time, with the hotel itself built around it. A diner historian helped nail every nostalgic detail, from the chrome storefront and neon signage to the placemats and fountain drinks. The menu leans into mid-century Americana “hero dishes” while embracing subtle Greek and Jewish influences; expect indulgent French dip sandwiches made with wagyu beef, comforting matzo ball soup, and a sweet line-up of apple, lemon, or pecan pie. If you’re craving a classic breakfast, they’ve got you covered with omlettes, breakfast sandos, fluffy pancakes, and eggs benedict. Step through the doors for an immersive slice of history — morning, noon, or night.
How we got there
We flew to San Diego via San Francisco, but direct flights are available too. Returns start from £380 with a transfer, or £450 direct during off-season. For those travelling direct from London, San Diego is about a 10-hour flight from Heathrow. San Diego International Airport is located in the city centre, with a taxi bay right in front of the exit, making it incredibly convenient to grab a cab to your hotel in a matter of minutes.
San Diego is brimming with culture, creativity, and mouth-watering eats — no matter where your West Coast adventures lead. Whether you’re strolling the coastal cliffs, diving into the city’s layered history, or tackling that ever-growing foodie bucket list, there’s a corner of this place ready to steal your heart.
You Might Also Like
