Adventurous Dining & Drinking in San Diego
It’s tough to have a bad meal in “America’s Finest City.” San Diego’s world-renowned status as a culinary melting pot means that there’s something delicious around every corner. And since we’re so spoiled for choice, sometimes that tasty trip also represents something a little out of the ordinary. So if you’re hungry for something a little different, we’ve got some suggestions for off-the-beaten-path San Diego food experiences you’ll want to check out.
Corvette Diner (4.2 miles)
(Photo: @corvettediner)
Take a step back in time at this ‘50s-themed “greasy spoon.” Will there be chrome? Of Course. Formica countertops? Naturally. Poodle skirts, saddle shoes, doo-wop music and attitude? Would you have it any other way? The menu is just as much of a throwback, and features glorious heaps of onion rings, bacon, cheeseburgers and milkshakes so thick they laugh at straws. You’ll also love the arcade-style fun at the adjacent “gamers garage”.
2965 Historic Decatur Rd., San Diego, CA 92106
Trailer Park After Dark (4.4 miles)
(Photo: @trailerparkafterdark)
Billing itself as “encompassing the grit and glitter of trailer park life”, Trailer Park After Dark unabashedly celebrates the kitsch of middle America with an undeniable irreverence and upbeat spirit. If you like ‘80s music, Aloha shirts, pink flamingos and cheap beer, then you’ve found your new hangout. The menu is also unapologetically hedonistic, featuring Frito pie, tater tots, sloppy joes, hot dogs and homemade meatloaf.
835 5th Ave #LL, San Diego CA, 92101
The Invigatorium (4.4 miles)
(Photo: @theinvigatorium)
Need a bit of a wake-up? Between the pixel art-inspired Post-It note mural, fire-breathing Godzilla and extra-strong coffee drinks at The Invigatorium, you’re not likely to walk out still drowsy. The extensive brewed awakenings menu comes courtesy of venerable local java and beer purveyors Modern Times, and the breakfast favorites heavy food menu (featuring breakfast sandwiches, frittatas and hearty protein bowls) is served all day.
631 9th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
One Door North (5.2 miles)
(Photo: @onedoornorth)
Something about food cooked around a campfire just hits different. And the folks at One Door North get it. That’s why they’ve created this eclectic eatery that’s imbued with that al fresco spirit. Everything at this quirky North Park noshery is inspired by Chef Fred Piehl’s love of the outdoors. So expect fresh, locally-sourced, and seasonal ingredients in service of an ever-shifting menu of handcrafted delight. Just be sure not to skip the S’mores.
3422 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104
Wolfie’s Carousel Bar (5.4 miles)
(Photo: @wolfiescarousel)
Upon entering Wolfie’s, the first thing you’ll notice is the eponymous merry-go-round. And while it might be tempting to assume it’s just a whimsical piece of décor, make no mistake — the still-working carousel is an antique hand-carved by master amusement-park pioneer Charles “Wolfie” Looff in 1881. Of course, the second thing you’ll notice is the inventive, French-inspired menu. So order an Oysters Rockefeller, sip some Veuve Clicquot, and go for a spin.
2401 Kettner Blvd. Suite B, San Diego, CA 92101
Forbidden Cove
(Photo: @forbiddencovesd)
Ready to get down with a little freaky tiki? Forbidden Cove is the Polynesian paradise of your dreams. From the timeless Island décor to the potently potable rum drinks inside, everything you could possibly want out of an island experience is within the walls. Just take care that you tip the barkeeps. You wouldn’t want to anger the idols, would you? And speaking of undercover imbiberies, San Diego has even more tricks up its sleeve…
Secret Speakeasies
(Photo: falseidoltiki)
Speakeasies — a.k.a. hidden bars — began out of necessity during America’s prohibition era. But since there’s something that just feels a little taboo about them, their popularity has persisted to the present day. The entrances to these hush-hush spots are often less than obvious (such as obscured doors behind bookcases, or false lobbies leading to expansive interiors), and many even require passwords for entry. Want in? Take a look at “The Coolest Speakeasy Bars in San Diego” from our colleagues at sister property The Dana on Mission Bay for an insiders’ peek at some of San Diego’s must-visit speakeasies.
Days Makes For a Delicious Stay
(Photo: @daysinnhc)
Ready to rest between rounds of daring devourage? There’s no better respite than at our San Diego hotel. We offer competitive rates, guest-first amenities, and fantastic service. We’ve even got a distinguished dining destination of our own in the form of Bunz, a Burger Joint. So when you’re ready to assuage your appetite, we’ll have your room ready. Check out our Special Offers page, and pick the tasty trip that’s right for you!