MW2012: San Diego food & drink suggestions

While following the #MW2012 tweets, I’ve noticed messages from people who are going to visit San Diego for the first time. You’ll probably find that everything people say is true: the weather is perfect, the beaches are gorgeous, and the public transportation could use a bit of work. But while you may have heard tips about SeaWorld and the Zoo, you might not know too much about the city’s food and nightlife. Following are some of my suggestions for places to go after the conference days end. 

Tuesday (after Tour #1) & Friday (after SDASM reception)

A convenient spot for happy hour in Balboa Park is the Prado Restaurant, located in the historic House of Hospitality. The happy hour (4-6pm & 8-10pm) includes deals on wine, mules, margaritas, and food. In nearby Banker’s Hill (~10 minute walk), top dinner picks include Cucina Urbana, Bankers Hill Bar & Restaurant, and Hane Sushi. And Wet Stone Winebar has amazing white sangria.

Tuesday (after Tour #2)

The New Children’s Museum is close to the Gaslamp District—a.k.a. hundreds of bars and restaurants. Along with some of San Diego’s best eateries, Gaslamp is known for its pricey tourist traps. Worthy dinner options include Searsucker, Café Chloe, Café Sevilla, Kebab Shop, and Basic (in loose order of price). For evening drinks, I recommend Vin de Syrah (fun décor), La Puerta (margaritas!), and LOUNGEsix (rooftop bar at Hotel Solamar).

Wednesday

After the MCASD reception, you could try one of the downtown recommendations listed above or walk along India Street to Little Italy. At Craft & Commerce and Prepkitchen, you’ll find burgers, mussels, bacon-topped specialties, and craft cocktails. Bencotto is my go-to Italian restaurant and Enoteca Style is a great little wine bar. The Waterfront is a few blocks farther but it's a fun, divey bar with free popcorn.

Thursday

After the Exhibitors Reception, you could go to the nearby Island Prime or take a quick (< 5 mile) cab ride to Restaurant at the Pearl (fun bar & dining room at the mid century modern hotel), Bali Hai (tiki drinks & bay view), Phil’s BBQ (opt for take-out unless you like long waits), In-N-Out, or a taco shop like Adalberto’s. You could also take a short cab ride to Old Town for Mexican food at El Agave or the casual Old Town Mexican Cafe. The Mexican spots along San Diego Ave are a bit touristy but they're good for groups. Adjacent to the Old Town Historic Park, the Cosmopolitan Hotel & Restaurant has a quiet outdoor patio and saloon-style bar. 

If you're going to venture out to La Jolla, Coronado, Hillcrest, and other areas of San Diego, you can find food, drink, and recreation ideas through San Diego Magazine and the city's active Yelp community. 

See you in April!