Steam tables laden with authentic, home-style Mexican stews that taste like someone's grandma made them. About a dozen are offered daily.
2012's biggest success story, this pork-centric spot from Chef Hanis Cavin is bound to multiply this year, and inspire other chefs to venture out on their own. [Eater 38 Member]
San Diegans were glad to see Market's Carl Schroeder move down from North County for this more casual second spot. [Eater 38 Member]
Cozy, homestyle Japanese cuisine sourced with seasonal ingredients from adjacent Nijiya Market. Their set menu at lunch (served 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Monday-Saturday) is a must. [Eater 38 Member] Read more.
Traditional Barbacoa-style lamb, stuffed into tacos and enchiladas or on top of sopes or tostadas. In any form, it's delicious - the Travel Channel's Andrew Zimmern agrees. [Eater 38 Member]
There are many gastropub wannabes but Jayne's is the real deal, boasting a British owner and a well-executed modern pub menu. The wine list is more interesting than most. [Eater 38 Member]
Javier Plascencia's only San Diego-based restaurant; worth a try for a taste of the Baja Med cuisine that the chef has helped to make world-famous. [Eater 38 Member]
Puesto provides a seriously stunning setting for a menu that showcases its signature tacos as well as Mexican small plates and inspired craft cocktails.
Christian Graves recently added the talented Jack Fisher to his kitchen, which means a new cheese-making program and a developing dessert menu that should rival any in the city. [Eater 38 Member] Read more.
An in-house butcher shop, skilled mixologists and a non-stuffy vibe set this steakhouse apart from its expense account counterparts. Try for a seat at Victor Jimenez's chef table. [Eater 38 Member]
This place might be an only-in-San Diego special. Where else could you eat house made sausages while drinking local beer in a still-operational bait and tackle shop on a pier? [Eater 38 Member]
Boasts the best Baja-style fish tacos this side of the border. They've got a fancier, sit-down restaurant nearby but the no-frills shop is a favorite for 99-cent fish tacos. [Eater 38 Member] Read more.
Flavor and heat mingle deliciously at this no-frills Thai joint. The curries and noodles are above par but the catfish or duck larb and raw beef salad are really something special. [Eater 38 Member]
