Restaurants

Nestled along the San Diego Bay with its coastal breezes and views of the Coronado Bridge, Seaport Village is a stunning 14-acre waterfront shopping and dining complex in downtown San Diego. It offers eclectic shops, fine and casual dining and family-friendly entertainment.

Finding a favorite flag, trying on eco-friendly clothing or appreciating exclusive art are just a few of the offerings at the 50-plus diverse shops dotting the village. Visitors can also grab a bite at more than a dozen eateries cooking up everything from Greek and Mexican food to pizza, pretzels and gourmet cupcakes.

Enjoy a taste of what’s new at Seaport Village, the vibrant dining and shopping destination on San Diego Bay. Topping the menu is Malibu Farm, introducing all-day dining and farm-to-table cuisine to the waterfront neighborhood. The vibrant Lighthouse District, Seaport Village’s southernmost alcove, has also seen a wave of fresh new additions including an indoor-outdoor tasting room from craft brewer Mike Hess, and locally beloved taqueria Crack Taco Shop, home to the famous “Cardiff Crack” tri-tip. Coastal breezes and ocean views also pair perfectly with homegrown favorites SD Burger Co, Spill the Beans and Mr. Moto Pizza. Also enjoy southern comfort food at Louisiana Charlie’s. Grab dessert from Seaport Fudge or sip on award-winning wines at San Pasqual’s Tasting Room. Grab a bite at one of these mainstays or newly arrived eateries, explore dozens of unique shops and galleries, and stroll the pathways while checking out vibrant murals and hidden gems.

Free outdoor musical entertainment, ranging from blues, jazz, country and swing, is offered year-round. Street performers and caricaturists, face-painters and balloon sculptors attract and delight crowds. Families also love the 1895 antique carousel with hand-carved animals by Charles Loof. Signature events at Seaport Village include the “Spring Busker Festival” “Easter Bunny Photos,” “Traditional Santa Photos” and the arrival of “Surfin’ Santa.” Check the latest upcoming events at https://www.seaportvillage.com/events-calendar

With four miles of meandering cobblestone pathways bordered by ponds, lakes, fountains and colorful landscaping plus a quarter-mile slate boardwalk along the San Diego Bay, it’s easy to enjoy an afternoon wandering through the shops, walking the promenade and taking in the scenery.

Seaport Village is at 849 W. Harbor Drive in San Diego. The complex is open daily from 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Call (619) 235-4014 www.seaportvillage.com.

Choose from over 20 piping-hot pizzas at Leucadia Pizzeria & Italian Restaurants’ locations in Encinitas and University Town Center/La Jolla. Aside from their famous pizzas (with a choice of gluten-free crust), the restaurants are known for delicious pastas, fresh entrées, subs, salads and desserts. Each location has a full selection of cocktails, wine and local beers on draft and Happy Hours run 4–7 p.m. Monday-Friday. Both La Jolla and Encinitas restaurants include large patios, perfect for casual banquets! For reservations, delivery or catering, call the location nearest to you. Or stay at home and order online! They deliver! Gift certificates are also available. leucadiapizza.com

Leucadia Pizzeria & Italian Restaurants:
• Encinitas: 315 South Coast Hwy. 101 (760) 942-2222 Online
• La Jolla: 7748 Regents Rd. #303, La Jolla/UTC (858) 597-2222 Online
• Carlsbad: 959 Tamarack Ave. (760) 434-2222 (Tamarack location is take-out & delivery only-no seating) Online
• Point Loma: 4161 Voltaire St., Point Loma Online (619)295-2222

Carolyn Howard
PassPort to San Diego, Inc.

As an East County resident, I was very happy when Casa de Pico moved from Old Town to Grossmont Center in La Mesa several years back. I have been many times to lunch, dinner and happy hour at this colorful and festive Mexican restaurant. I still need to make it to Casa’s Sunday Brunch, which I’m sure is excellent! My favorite dessert is the fried ice cream. Make sure you save room, as it is well worth it!

Weather usually dictates whether I sit inside or on their patio. It can get pretty busy at peak hours, but the restaurant is quite large and spacious. The menu is extensive, so I try to order something different every time I go. This is a great venue for young children, as the ambiance consists of brightly colored decor, a strolling mariachi band and lively Mexican music playing in the background.

There always seems to be large gatherings when I’ve gone, as this is a perfect party venue. Casa de Pico has banquet rooms, as well as catering available for your private events.

A San Diego favorite for over 50 years, Casa de Pico has earned awards for Best Mexican Restaurant, Best Patio Dining, Best Margarita, Best Guacamole, Top 50 Best Mexican Restaurants and Hot 150 Restaurants. Filled with vivid colors, hand-painted artwork, classic and authentic folk art, Casa de Pico makes every guest feel like they’ve travelled to Mexico and back, all in one day. Call (619) 463-3267 or visit www.casadepico.com.

Carolyn Howard
PassPort to San Diego

Come to Kansas City Barbeque to watch all the Kansas City Chiefs games this season. Doors open at the downtown San Diego restaurant at 9 a.m. for morning games. The backroom holds about 40 people, and on many Sundays, the room fills early.

There are five televisions, most of which show a the Kansas City game while the other might broadcast an L.A. Chargers game. Dominated by a sea of red and white jerseys, guests are greeted by a good mix of both visitors to San Diego and locals, many of whom are regulars coming in to watch the games. Most are adults, though some are families with small children. Both a drink and lunch menu are available for ordering, and include barbecue favorites such as pulled pork sandwiches, baby back ribs and beef brisket, all accompanied by several choices of delicious sides and appetizers.

The bar area also shows the games on its three televisions. Aside from its tasty ribs,Kansas City Barbeque place also serves sandwiches, chicken and beef, and delicious side dishes including cole slaw, beans, fries, to-die-for onion rings, potato salad, corn on the cob, and macaroni and cheese. Lunch and Dinner is served daily, Happy Hour runs every day from 3:30-6:30 p.m. and features food and beer specials. Take-out and catering are available. Learn more about Kansas City Barbeque here