Morning coffee is non-negotiable for us. Spill the Beans is our downtown favorite — it’s where we end up when we want a solid bagel sandwich to start the day right. Philz is our North County go-to; it’s always exactly what we need! And when we want something that just feels very San Diego, Bird Rock never misses — great coffee and easy coastal vibes.
San Diego does beer well, and these are the spots we naturally end up at. Harland Brewing is our go-to for something crisp and easy, while Fall Brewing is where we land when we’re in the mood for something bolder. Karl Strauss is especially meaningful to us — it’s where we had our first date, and it still feels like a very classic San Diego stop. If you have time to head north, we spend a lot of weekends at Booze Brothers in Vista. The Japanese lager is our favorite, and if you’re hungry, Party Burgers is worth ordering.
We love a good cocktail and a spot that just feels right. The Whiskey House is hard to beat if you’re into whiskey — their selection is huge and impressive. For drinks with a view, we usually go to Top of the Hyatt or Topsail — the city and bay views never get old. And when we’re feeling like something unique, we make our way to Wilma’s Carousel Bar in Little Italy for a playful, revolving-bar kind of nightcap.
We love food, so narrowing our favorites down is impossible—but here are a few we keep coming back to. The Water Grill is our pick for fresh seafood in a slightly fancier setting, and the oyster bar is always a win. Just next door, The Blind Burro is great for coastal Mexican — simple, tasty, and full of flavor. And for Italian, we can’t get enough of Barbusa in Little Italy — lively, fun energy and food that sticks with you.
For casual, easygoing eats, we love Liberty Public Market — it’s lively, full of options, and never disappoints. If you’re craving a classic San Diego smashburger, The Friendly is a must. And for late-night cravings, there are lots of choices — taco stands are basically everywhere, and for a guilty pleasure, Taco Bell (our favorite) always hits the spot.