San Diego is bursting with reasons to plan a spring getaway or summer vacay. Yes, the beaches are gorgeous, you can hop into Mexico for a day, and visit the cultural wonder that is Balboa Park, but below are 5 reasons why a visit to San Diego is not only warranted, but recommended right now.
Mid-Century Vibes
Mid-century decor continues to have a major moment, and San Diego is here for it. The Bristol Hotel in downtown San Diego is putting the final touches on a $7 million remodel of all their rooms and brand new suites, and used the opportunity to deck them out in mid-century decor. Featuring vintage-inspired record players, pop art, nods to The Beatles, and classic mid-century furniture, the Bristol is a perfect jumping off point for exploring San Diego. Madison on Park, in University Heights, has embraced the mid-century aesthetic and is serving up design inspiration in addition to their amazing cocktails and bites. While you’re admiring their decor, be sure to try one of their signature drinks, like the CBD infused Mr. Nice Guy or the butterfly pea flower spiked Purple Rain.
The Best of Craft Beer
San Diego’s craft beer scene is arguably one of it’s greatest attributes. Saint Archer Brewing Company, known for their Mosaic IPA and outdoorsy-culture brews, is opening a new tasting room in the surf town of Leucadia, 30 minutes north of Downtown. With more than a dozen taps, the new tasting room will feature the breweries fan favorites, as well as debut some of their seasonal releases. For modern classic beers and delicious brew-pub bites, try Bagby Beer Co. in Oceanside. The family/dog-friendly brewery offers over 30 beers on tap, and an extensive from-scratch menu, including many plant-based options crafted by the Brewery’s vegan chef.
Celebrity Caliber Food
Head to San Diego’s food mecca, Little Italy home of celebrity chef restaurants from Brian Malarkey, Richard Blais, and the newly opened Salt & Straw. Herb & Wood, under the guidance of Chef Brian Malarkey, serves up fanciful Cali-Med fare in a stunning setting. For a more casual take on Chef Malarkey’s food, try next door’s Herb & Eatery, catering to an all day crowd with delicious breakfasts, sandwiches, salads, pizzas, and a grab-and-go market. Be sure to get there early to sample the Eatery’s pastries by Executive Pastry Chef Adrian Mendoza. All of his creations are delicious, but perhaps the most popular, his croissants, always sell out.
Insta-worthy Destinations
Beyond just being delicious, San Diego’s restaurants acknowledge that food also needs to be beautiful —after all, if you didn’t post it, did you even eat it? One of the city’s most insta-worthy brunches can be found tucked away in La Jolla at Farmer & The Seahorse. Following a hike at Torrey Pines (practically a rite of passage for anyone visiting San Diego) head down the road to Farmer, where their eclectic farmhouse decor is complimented by their beautifully plated and indulgent dishes. From the vintage Airstream, to the delectable fare, you —and your followers — won’t be able to get enough.
Eclectic Nightlife
For line dancing, live music, and some southern hospitality, head to Moonshine Flats, San Diego’s favorite country bar. Moonshine Flats is responsible for bringing both up-and-coming and well-known country artists to the area, dubbing San Diego, Nashville West. Cat Eye Club, known for their Tiki-inspired cocktails, is a destination for any Tiki-lover or fans of kitschy bars. The newly revamped late night happy hour at Prep Kitchen serves up great craft cocktails, and even better happy hour deals, Prep Kitchen is a must hit for anyone looking for classic quality drinks in a neighborhood setting.
