San Diego’s dining landscape continues to flourish, offering residents and visitors an array of new establishments alongside beloved local favorites. Here’s a look at some noteworthy additions and enduring classics that define the city’s culinary scene.
New Restaurant Openings
Bacari – North Park
Bacari, a Venetian-inspired wine bar and restaurant, has made its San Diego debut in North Park. Known for its shareable plates and extensive wine selection, Bacari offers a cozy ambiance reminiscent of traditional Italian bacari. Signature dishes include the Moroccan Cigars—crispy rolls filled with lamb, chicken, roasted nuts, and honey glaze, served with toum crema. The restaurant also features a 90-minute open bar option, enhancing its appeal for social gatherings.
Chick and Hawk – Encinitas
Co-founded by skateboarding legend Tony Hawk and chef Andrew Bachelier, Chick and Hawk brings a ‘fast-fine’ dining concept to Encinitas. The menu highlights high-quality ingredients in a relaxed setting inspired by 1990s surf and skate culture. A standout item is ‘The Birdman,’ a spicy fried chicken sandwich with varying spice levels themed after skateboarding tricks. The concise menu also features a fresh fish sandwich, curated cocktails, and caviar service.
Shorebird – Seaport Village
Shorebird offers upscale waterfront dining in Seaport Village, providing scenic views of the bay. The seafood-centric menu includes notable items like a substantial BLT&E sandwich served with rosemary smashed potatoes and a signature blood orange mezcalita cocktail. The restaurant is part of a broader revitalization effort by the Port of San Diego to enhance the area’s appeal.
Local Favorites
Las Cuatro Milpas – Barrio Logan
A cherished family-run Mexican restaurant, Las Cuatro Milpas, has reopened in Barrio Logan after a brief closure. Operating for nearly a century, the restaurant continues to serve its traditional dishes from a new location at the Mercado del Barrio development on National Avenue, close to its original home. The establishment is also collecting community memories, including photos and stories, to adorn its new space, preserving its rich history.
Mike’s Red Tacos
Originating as a San Diego food truck, Mike’s Red Tacos has gained national recognition for its beef birria tacos. The business has expanded rapidly, with plans to launch over 200 franchises across the U.S. The tacos feature slow-cooked beef, crispy chile oil-soaked tortillas, melty cheese, cilantro, and onion, served with a side of rich consomé for dipping. The latest location in Mira Mesa operates daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., with extended hours until midnight on weekends.
Food Truck Scene
San Diego’s food truck scene continues to thrive, offering diverse cuisines and flavors. The Food Truck Association of San Diego represents over 100 local food trucks, carts, and trailers, providing a wide range of options for catering and special events. From traditional Mexican street tacos to gourmet sandwiches and Asian-inspired dishes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re exploring new openings or revisiting local favorites, San Diego’s dynamic culinary scene offers a rich tapestry of flavors and experiences to savor.