San Diego is a touristy place to be sure, but there are tons of hidden gems and cult favorites in the local food scene that you might not hear much about.
I like to eat. Here are some solid recommendations I stand by. I also added Orange County, Los Angeles and Tijuana, Mexico since I'm there a lot.
Map
Sections
4
San Diego Proper
North County
Tijuana, Mexico
Orange County
San Diego Proper
My favorite places in San Diego Proper.
No, but really…best #Jewish #deli in San Diego. Take home fresh rye from the bakery.
D Z Akin's
The chicken is perfection but everything is yummy! Get extra peanut sauce to go. #thai #hillcrest
Saffron Thai
This place is a GEM! Excellent food. #pekingduck #roastpork #hongkongnoodles #convoy
Eastern Dynasty 粤品
The portions here are laughably large but the chicken & bacon waffle is something I refuse to share! #waffles #hillcrest #brunch #friedchicken
Hash House A Go Go
North County
My favorite places North of Del Mar.
This place has the BEST meat…and tallow fries. Just sayin'. #butcher #tallowfries #cheesesteak #lacosta
The Wise Ox La Costa
Excellent food but also an amazing place to buy exotic spices. #kebab #gyros #ethnicgrocer #spices #persian #encinitas
Peachy's Market & Grill
Healthy, delicious food and super nice people. Hidden gem. #encinitas #smallbusiness #chicken #healthy #local
Chicks Natural
Easily the best sushi in North County. #sushi #omakase #encinitas #hiddengem
Kaito Sushi
Hole in the wall with solid food and large portions. Daily specials. #mexican #carlsbad #local #calimex
Los Primos Mexican Food
The #DimSum is non traditional but top notch. Get the Cumin #Lamb. #fusion #korean #chinese #encinitas
CHIKO
I'm Peruvian. Their food is legit. Get the ceviche mixto & salchipapas.
Al Toque Peruvian Kitchen
Tijuana, Mexico
I love walking across the border to wander around and eat.
Home of the original Caesar Salad - prepared tableside. Everything is delicious - the martinis are strong. Wonderful old school vibe.
CAESAR'S, Tijuana - Av. Revolucion 1079
One of my favorite places. Don't skip the bread course.
