champagne brunch cruise san diego

San Diego Champagne Brunch Cruise

Upcoming departures, champagne brunch cruise.

• 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM Book Now

This is as close to perfect as it gets in San Diego. Board our yacht in the gentle morning sun, greeted with a sparkling champagne mimosa. A decadent spread of all-you-can-eat brunch stations awaits, including made-to-order omelets, fresh local seafood, chef-attended carving station, and so much more, accompanied by live music and bottomless champagne. Choose the local favorite Flagship for exceptional service, quality, and local knowledge. It's a ready-made outdoor venue for anniversaries, bridal showers and celebrations of all kinds.

Your Experience Includes

• Free-Flowing Champagne and Mimosas
• Private Table Seating
• Amazing Photo Opportunities

Select Your Cruise

The perfect San Diego weekend starts here, with with fresh seafood, made-to-order omelets, carving stations and scenic views.

• 11:00 am - 1:00 pm

Boarding time 30 minutes prior.

Groups of 20+ People Ask About Our Special Rates and Services

Full Bay Route

Covering both the North and South Bay route. The Full Bay Route Includes the following :

North: The San Diego skyline, Star of India and the iconic ships of the Maritime Museum, Harbor Island, Shelter Island and North Island Naval Air Station.

South: U.S.S. Midway Aircraft Carrier, U.S. Navy Surface Fleet, Coronado waterfront, Naval Amphibious Base Coronado (home of the Navy SEAL's) and the Coronado Bay Bridge .

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• Things to Do

San Diego Brunch Cruise + Hotel Package

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San Diego Brunch Cruise + SeaWorld San Diego

San Diego Brunch Cruise + San Diego Zoo

San Diego Brunch Cruise + San Diego Zoo Safari Park

San Diego Brunch Cruise + Sesame Place San Diego

San Diego Brunch Cruise + Old Town Trolley Hop-on Hop-off

San Diego Brunch Cruise + San Diego SEAL Tour at Seaport Village

Experience a premier Bay tour with grand views of San Diego landmarks aboard the Hornblower Brunch Cruise. See the Coronado Bay Bridge, Star of India, and Naval Air Station North from the comfort of your table. Enjoy luxurious free-flowing champagne, mimosas, and sparkling cider while enjoying breathtaking views over a delicious brunch with family or friends. up to 2 hrs 1 or more people

Good To Know

• Treat yourself to a brunch cruise on San Diego Bay with views of Coronado Island, the Star of India tall ship, and San Diego skyline.
• Departs from Pier 1 Hornblower Landing at Grape Street: 1800 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA.
• Boarding starts at 10:30 AM and departs at 11:00 AM, subject to change on holidays.
• Dress up or casually—bring a hat, a pair of shades, a sweater or a light jacket for the great weather on the water.
• All ages can join in the fun in the sun.
• Enjoy a premier buffet brunch and free-flowing champagne, mimosas and sparkling cider.
• Post your pictures and videos while you cruise using the free onboard Wi-Fi.
• The cruise will sail rain or shine except otherwise advised by the U.S. Coast Guard.

Description

San Diego Brunch Cruise by Hornblower Reviews

San Diego Brunch Cruise by Hornblower is located at City Cruises San Diego Harbor • 800 North Harbor Drive • San Diego , CA 92101

Nearby Things to Do

• San Diego Dinner Cruise by Hornblower
• Maritime Museum of San Diego
• GoCar: Full Day San Diego Driving Tour
• Vino! Vino! Little Italy Wine Tour
• The Best of San Diego: Private Walking Tour including USS Midway

Nearby Hotels & Lodging

• The Sofia Hotel
• The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
• Moxy San Diego Downtown/Gaslamp Quarter
• Comfort Inn Gaslamp Convention Center
• Hotel Indigo Gaslamp Quarter

Frequently Asked Questions about San Diego Brunch Cruise by Hornblower

Where does the cruise depart from.

San Diego Brunch Cruise boards at Pier 1 Hornblower Landing: 1800 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 at Grape Street.

Where can I park?

San Diego Brunch Cruise does not operate any parking lots, but there is local metered parking available at Pier 1: both sides of North Harbor Drive and Pier 2: ACE Parking lot on the pier next to the USS Midway Museum.

Is there a dress code?

Yes, the dress code for the San Diego Brunch Cruise is casual attire such as khakis, nice jeans, dresses, button-up shirts, and blouses.

What should I bring?

Please bring a valid photo ID. The U.S. Coast Guard requires all passengers over 18 years old to have valid photo identification. Also, bring a sweater/light jacket, hat, and shades for the great weather on the water.

Is the San Diego Brunch Cruise regulated by the U.S. Coast Guard?

Vessels operated by City Cruises are subject to inspections by the U.S. Coast Guard and have licensed crew members onboard. They also follow Maritime Security (MARSEC) guidelines.

Are there any age restrictions to the San Diego Brunch Cruise?

There is no age restriction to the San Diego Brunch Cruise. Children are allowed, and those under four (4) years old can join for free. Please note that adults must accompany minors.

Are there highchairs or booster seats offered?

Yes, there are highchairs and booster seats available.

Are pets allowed onboard?

Unfortunately, no. Only service animals are allowed onboard.

Is smoking allowed?

Smoking is allowed on the outside decks, but please note that cannabis products are prohibited as the cruise operates under the authority of the U.S. Coast Guard. Please dispose of all trash in proper receptacles and refrain from throwing anything into the water.

Can I bring a cake from outside?

Yes, cakes brought from outside are allowed onboard, but there is an outside dessert service or a cake-cutting fee per person charge of $1.50 to $3.00. Please note that open flames like a lit candle are prohibited on the vessels, including birthday candles. Flameless or LED birthday candles are allowed onboard.

What happens if it rains or snows?

San Diego Brunch Cruise sails rain or shine. In the case of severe weather conditions or upon the advice of the U.S. Coast Guard, the boat will remain dockside and still provide the full dining service.

Is seating assigned onboard?

The captain and crew will direct you to your deck and the hostess will seat you. Seats are assigned based on the needs and capacity for each cruise.

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Weekend Champagne Brunch Cruise San Diego, 2 Hours

Brunch buffet and overflowing champagne included!

Sparkling waves meets sparkling Champagne on this brunch cruise in San Diego. Enjoy a full brunch buffet and free-flowing Champagne and sparkling cider.

Description

Weekend Champagne Brunch Cruise, San Diego

Step aboard a magnificent luxury yacht, where you'll be greeted with a glass of chilled Champagne, setting the tone for an unforgettable celebration. Each guest will have their own private table, ensuring a personalized and intimate dining experience amidst the stunning backdrop of San Diego 's picturesque bay.

As you sail along the glistening waters, be prepared to be mesmerized by the captivating sights that unfold before you. Take in the iconic Coronado Bay Bridge , marvel at the majestic Star of India , catch a glimpse of the renowned North Island Naval station .

The weekend champagne brunch cruise in San Diego lasts for a leisurely 2 hours, allowing ample time for you to relax, unwind, and immerse yourself in the beauty that surrounds you. In addition to the mouthwatering brunch buffet, a decadent dessert buffet awaits, ensuring a sweet ending to your culinary journey.

To enrich your experience, a knowledgeable narrator will provide a guided tour, sharing fascinating insights about the landmarks and attractions that dot the San Diego skyline.

Undoubtedly, this brunch cruise in San Diego will be the highlight of your weekend, offering a perfect blend of luxury, gastronomy, and breathtaking vistas. So don't wait another moment, seize the opportunity to create cherished memories, and book your Weekend Champagne Brunch Cruise in San Diego today!

This weekend champagne brunch cruise  pre-boarding starts at 10:30AM, tour departs at 11:00AM. Kids aged 3 and under also get to ride for free.

Weekend Champagne Brunch Cruise in San Diego inclusions:

• 2 hours on a luxurious yacht on San Diego Bay
• Full brunch buffet featuring seasonal dishes
• Decadent dessert buffet
• Free-flowing champagne and sparkling cider
• Your own private table
• Narrated tour of San Diego landmarks

The cruise was a present for my nephew's birthday. He and his girlfriend were visiting me from Edinburgh, Scotland, and enjoyed the cruise very much.

Experience Details

Fitness and experience.

• Suitable for all ages; children ages 3 and under sail for free

What to Bring/Wear

• We recommend California casual attire, such as khaki pants and collared shirts. We request no shorts, tank tops, flip flops, or gym shoes.

What is Supplied

More information.

• Tours depart daily at 11:00am
• Pre-boarding at 10:30am
• All guests must wear face masks on board when moving around the vessel. Masks should be worn whenever away from the table.

  Available Dates

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Champagne Brunch Cruise, San Diego

LOCATION: San Diego, CA

HBC-CAC-007

The ultimate San Diego brunch

Free flowing bubbly, delicious cuisine and show-stopping views of San Diego's celebrated skyline combine to create the ultimate brunch on the harbor.

Get ready to enjoy the most unique champagne brunch in San Diego as you climb aboard a luxury yacht for 360-degree views, sensational food and a chance to gain a whole new perspective on the city. Drink in the views as you sample a variety of breakfast and lunch dishes, and then head to the outdoor deck for fresh sea air and a narrated bay cruise showcasing the city's highlights as never before.

Wind down, savor the flavors and soak up the views on an unforgettable brunch cruise that's just perfect for entertaining family members and out-of-town guests.

• StumbleUpon
• 2-hour cruise aboard a comfortable, climate-controlled yacht
• Full brunch buffet featuring seasonal dishes
• Decadent dessert buffet
• Free-flowing champagne and sparkling cider
• Narrated tour of San Diego landmarks
• Opportunities to chat with the Captain on the sun deck

With 28,000 square feet of event space, including 2 enclosed interior decks, an open-air sky deck rising 30 feet off the water, and 360-degree views of downtown San Diego, you’ll be sailing aboard California’s largest charter yacht south of San Francisco. This tour is suitable for all ages.

This tour takes place at 11am daily throughout the year. Boarding takes place at 10.30am.

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Champagne Brunch Cruise

Two-hour cruise of San Diego Bay's military and modern seafront

This brunch cruise will provide you with a close-up view of San Diego's unique mix of historical and modern highlights, which will include Coronado Island, Seaport Village, the USS Midway Museum and the North Island Naval Station.

You can enjoy the cruise on a luxury yacht with stunning harbor and skyline views. You can also enjoy champagne and mimosas with accompaniments and a brunch menu with diverse options. There will be music from a DJ to add to the atmosphere, and you'll have the choice of both indoor and outdoor seating

What's included

• Champagne and mimosas
• Buffet service menu
• Coffee and tea
• Two-hour cruise

What's Not Included

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Photos (approximately USD 15)

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible
• Accessible to strollers
• Service animals welcome
• Public transit links nearby
• Infant seats available

Health & Safety

• Suitable for all fitness levels

Restrictions

• Arrive at least 30 minutes before the start time.

Languages spoken by guide

Additional information.

The minimum age for consuming alcohol is 21 years.

Please inform the tour provider in case you have food allergies or dietary restrictions at the time of booking. The tour provider can accommodate most requests, including vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free diets.

Please dress in smart casual clothing.

Please bring a hat, sun cream and a jacket for outdoor dining.

Please provide a phone number for the tour provider to contact you should there be any changes to boarding.

Itinerary information

User ratings, what guests loved most, frequently asked questions, how do i book a ticket.

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Choose the number of tickets.

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Once you’ve entered your payment details successfully, you'll be redirected to your ticket page where you can check the status and details of your reservations.

You'll receive a confirmation email once the reservation is confirmed with the attraction operator. This could take some time based on the supplier.

You can view your tickets in your confirmation email or the Booking and Trips section of your account.

When do I pay?

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Can I cancel or modify my tickets?

You’ll need to check the policy on the specific ticket you book. Last-minute bookings might not have free cancellation available.

When will I get my free cancellation refund?

After you cancel, we'll issue a full refund immediately. Depending on your bank or payment provider, it can take 3–10 days to be refunded to your original payment method.

Tickets and prices

San Diego Champagne Brunch Cruise: Luxurious culinary experience

Tickets 🎫 Champagne Brunch Cruise for 1 Adult (13+) 🎫 Brunch Cruise for 1 Child (4-12) All tickets include: - 2-hour Yacht Cruise on San Diego Bay - Private table - Full brunch with seasonal dishes - Dessert buffet - Unlimited champagne, mimosas, sparkling cider - Satellite radio for background music - Narrated tour and views of San Diego landmarks - Free WiFi Children ages 3 and under enter free of charge Highlights 😍 Visit the Coronado Bay Bridge, the Star of India, the North Island Naval Station and the USS Midway aircraft carrier 🍽️ Tuck into a delicious seasonal brunch menu 🥂 Sip on free-flowing champagne, mimosas, and sparkling cider 🎵 Enjoy live music and entertainment, guaranteed to make this a morning or afternoon to remember! General Info 📅 Date: Saturdays and Sundays 🕒 Time: 11 a.m. ⏳ Duration: 2 hours 📍 Location: 1800 North Harbor Drive 👤 Age requirement: 21+ with valid ID to consume alcohol 🚗 Parking: metered parking available on-site ❓ Please note: make one booking to ensure proximity or make arrangements with the cruise provider (contact details on voucher). San Diego Coast Guard regulations require each guest to show a valid photo ID to board ❓ For this event, all sales are final and tickets can’t be refunded, changed or modified. For more information, please refer to our T&Cs Menu (subject to change) Appetizer:

• Basket of freshly baked croissants & cinnamon rolls with strawberry jam and whipped honey butter

First course:

• Plated chef's amuse: shrimp cocktail with lemon wedge & cocktail sauce
• Fresh mozzarella on thick-sliced roma tomato with balsamic reduction
• Grilled brown sugar, soy & ginger glazed salmon

Entrees (hot food station):

• Roasted red creamer potatoes with colorful roasted peppers
• French toast with maple syrup & berries
• Scrambled eggs with roasted tomato compote
• Poached egg on buttermilk biscuit with spinach supreme & hollandaise
• Thick cut, hickory smoked bacon
• Carved new york strip with salsa fresca
• Herb roasted turkey breast with cranberry-mango chutney

Dessert (plated dessert trio):

• New york style cheesecake
• Chef’s chocolate creation
• Bread pudding with caramel sauce

Description Climb aboard a yacht and prepare for drinking, dining, and dancing. A tasty brunch menu (with unlimited champagne, naturally) is waiting for you on board. Cruise around San Diego Bay, taking in the city's finest sights while tucking into a mountain of gourmet food. The expert chefs use local, seasonal ingredients to cater to your every whim, and professional DJs make sure your wining and dining is accompanied by the perfect soundtrack. It's a brunch to never forget.

Getting there

City Cruises San Diego

1800 North Harbor Drive, San Diego, 92101

Select date and session

No booking fees

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$5 off Champagne Brunch Cruise

Save $5 and hop aboard a Flagship luxury yacht to have an amazing San Diego brunch cruise experience.

Use Coupon Code at Checkout: SDTABRUNCH5

This two-hour brunch cruise will take you around the beautiful Downtown San Diego bay while you enjoy a gourmet buffet, complimentary champagne, mimosas and music all while soaking in gorgeous views of the harbor. Catch the Flagship Brunch Cruise for a relaxing and delicious time.

Offer not valid with any other offers

Neighborhood: Downtown

Flagship Cruises & Events 990 N Harbor Dr San Diego, CA 92101

Contact Info

619-234-4111

Jan 3 - ongoing

Coupon Code

SDTABRUNCH5

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Father’s Day Premier Brunch Cruise | City Cruises™

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Champagne Brunch Buffet provided by Flagship Cruises & Events

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A Taste of San Diego

Whether set by the sea or inland, these socal restaurants serve up great meals.

By Maribeth Mellin | June 3, 2024

Did you pack your sunscreen and hat? Ready to check out San Diego’s famed surf and sand? You’ve come to the right place. The convention center resembles a huge sailboat docked beside the deep blue San Diego Bay, where luxurious yachts fill the marina. Restaurants both fancy and casual tout prime water views around the center’s downtown neighborhood and all along San Diego County’s 70-mile coastline. You needn’t stick to the shore, however. There are plenty of stellar neighborhood spots that don’t need beach views to shine, as I found when researching Frommer’s San Diego Day by Day guide.

Seafood takes top billing at many spots, along with the region’s exceptional produce. Chefs put a SoCal twist on everything from sushi to Wagyu steaks, with inspired global flourishes everywhere. Mexican dishes and influences pop up in all sorts of menus, thanks to our proximity to the busiest land border crossing in the US.

San Diego’s famous fish tacos (copied from those in Baja California, Mexico) are ubiquitous and far from limited to the traditional grilled or tempura fish topped with shredded cabbage and salsas. Look for lobster, shrimp, and octopus in freshly made tortillas at finer spots. Local craft beers are on tap most places, and cocktails reflect the climate with an emphasis on tropical fruits and chilies.

San Diego is spread out, but all our recommended restaurants can be easily accessed on foot or by car, so feel free to explore. ¡Provecho!

Downtown near the Convention Center

Animae 969 Pacific Hwy. 619-432-1225 You might find yourself whispering upon entering this hushed, ultra-posh extravaganza in the Marina District. Asian fusion creations from Executive Chef Tara Monsod, a 2024 James Beard finalist, exude as much sophistication as the serene dining room. Diners seated in velvet booths share delicacies such as caviar shrimp toast and tuna kinilaw (a Filipino ceviche) before concentrating on their sublime Wagyu steaks and Sichuan sea bass. Consult the sake sommelier for guidance, and don’t skip dessert. D daily  $$$

Brigantine Seafood and Oyster Bar 1360 N. Harbor Dr. 619-719-4960 You can’t miss Portside Pier, a modernist complex anchored by a glass dome on the downtown waterfront. All four of its restaurants serve reliably tasty meals in airy spaces that seem to hang over the water. The Brig is a favorite for its low-key ambiance, stellar service, and wide-ranging menu. The Wagyu burger and crispy coconut macadamia shrimp are longtime favorites, as is the fish and chips. There’s flavor-ful grilled Spanish octopus and jumbo scallops with pork belly at dinner. Several items are less expensive during happy hour, which runs 2–5 p.m. daily, except Saturdays. Brunch (Sun), L (M–Sat), D daily $$

Callie 1195 Island Ave. 619-255-9696 Chef Travis Swikard honed his skills with famed chef-restaurateur Daniel Boulud in New York City before opening this award-winning dining room in San Diego’s East Village. His take on Mediterranean cuisine highlights local seafood and produce. Start your meal tapas-style, with pungent taramasalata or avocado labneh with vegetable crudités, then continue the San Diego theme with line-caught market fish or, if available, Pacific spiny lobster on squid ink rigatoni. Finish with a rich, warm chocolate-chip tahini cookie with gelato. Book early; reservations are in high demand. D (Tue–Sun) $$

Cowboy Star Restaurant and Butcher Shop 640 10th Ave. 619-450-5880 There’s nothing kitschy about the dandified Old West décor in this East Village stalwart’s dining room or about Chef Nestor Iturbude’s dishes. Carnivores find it hard to order sensibly when faced with bison short ribs, pheasant roulade, and wood-fired elk chop. The essential steaks are all on offer, accompanied by sides such as roasted bone marrow and crispy Brussels sprouts. Butternut squash tortellini and tasty vegetable sides please noncarnivores. Weekday happy hour runs 3–6 p.m., and is popular with locals for its sliders and house-made sausage. D daily  $$

Extraordinary Desserts 1430 Union St. 619-294-7001 Many San Diegans would be bereft if Karen Krasne grew tired of creating perfect cakes, pastries, and pies for everyday indulgences and special occasions. Like its Bankers Hill sibling, this Little Italy location—which is much closer to the convention center than the other Little Italy options listed—is a gallery devoted to culinary artistry, its glass cases full of elegant multi-tiered cakes topped with fresh flowers. The light-meal menu includes four different grilled cheese sandwiches, gravlax on toast, and tomato-basil soup, among other choices, as preludes to the sweets. Leave room for a lemon-meringue tartlet or tropical fruit pavlova, and just try to exit without a few treats for later. L, D daily $

Bankers Hill

Cucina Urbana 505 Laurel St. 619-239-2222 The Urban Kitchen Group’s restaurants are neighborhood favorites, as you’ll quickly see at this Bankers Hill Italian ristorante and enoteca that adds a sense of California freshness to Italian favorites. The meatballs with mascarpone polenta are just as tasty as they sound, and the ribeye carpaccio melts on the tongue. Imaginative takes on pastas and pizzas hit high notes, and the whole branzino is a meal that appeals to all senses. More than 200 inter-national wines are on display in the shop. D daily $$

Mister A’s 2550 Fifth Ave. 619-239-1377 For sky-high views of downtown with jets gliding by, you can’t beat this iconic spot on the 12th floor of an office building in Bankers Hill. It has been a linen-and-crystal celebratory spot since opening in 1965. The latest update retains the white-glove aura of the past while offering casual lounge seating on the terrace, a bar menu, and a Saturday jazz brunch. Splurge on Maine lobster strudel or prime ribeye at dinner. A burger with a Gorgonzola crust shines at lunch. Make reservations for seats with the best views. Note: Business casual attire is required. Brunch (Sat, Sun), L (W–F), D daily $$$

Golden Hill

Kingfisher 2469 Broadway 619-432-1014 This was San Diego’s hottest restaurant when it opened in 2022, and it hasn’t rested on its laurels. Thoroughly modern décor and a menu of French-influenced Vietnamese dishes with a California twist draw full houses. Forget pho. Think of fresh, herbal flavors, as in diver scallops with tamarind, Thai basil, and rice paddy herbs, or prawns with Vietnamese coriander and pineapple purée. The extravagantly flavored (and priced) smoked, dry-aged duck sells out nightly. D (W–M) $$

Balboa Park and North Park

Artifact at Mingei 1439 El Prado 619-331-3569 Global cuisine takes center stage at Balboa Park’s Mingei International Museum, a treasure trove of folk art and design from around the world. The sleek restaurant shares the museum’s lobby with an artful installation of antique carousel horses; the courtyard features a large, colorful enamel mural. The chef relies on ancient methods, spices, and botanicals to create dishes enlivened by global influences. Crispy tofu is paired with oyster mushrooms, fish sauce, and chili crisp, while dumplings include a clever rye pierogi with farmer’s cheese, dill, caraway, and onion. L (Tue–Sun), D (Th–F) $$

Mabel’s Gone Fishing 3770 30th St. 619-228-9851 North Park may well be San Diego’s hottest, hippest neighborhood, with Mabel’s standing out as one of its most enjoyable haunts. As the name suggests, the menu focuses on seafood, and dishes change with the day’s catch. Shared plates may include mussels escabeche with smoked paprika and hiramasa with melon gazpacho, while entrées might include a bluefin tuna steak with salted plum sauce. The gin and tonics are as celebrated as the food, with a monthly concoction featuring surprising yet satisfying flavors. Parking is tight in this area; consider using a cab or a ride-sharing service. D (M–Sat) $$

The Prado 1549 El Prado, Ste. 12 619-557-9441 Step into history at this handsome restaurant in Balboa Park’s Moorish House of Hospitality, constructed in 1915 for the two-year Panama–California Exposition. The setting is exquisite, with a warm, wood-beamed dining room and a sunlit, multilevel terrace overlooking the park’s gardens. The dinner menu draws on European influences (think sangria, paella, and mushroom risotto) while lunch includes tacos and sandwiches. Don’t miss the courtyard’s tiled fountain with a lovely statue of a woman pouring water from a rounded jar. L, D (Tue–Sun) $$

Little Italy

Born and Raised 1909 India St. 619-202-4577 If art deco is your vibe, you’ll be thrilled with this 1930s-style steakhouse. Fashion-able diners ensconced in camel-colored leather booths sip chilled martinis while tuxedoed waiters -prepare classic Caesar salads and steak tartare tableside. Dry-aged steaks are the main attraction, but don’t skip starters like the Burgundy snails with bone marrow or the splendid tartare. Then there’s the dessert cart with liquid and edible treats. Retreat to the rooftop for a digestif and views of the sparkly downtown lights. D daily $$$

Cloak and Petal 1953 India St. 619-501-5505 Visions of Tokyo and au courant Japanese design flash by as you enter this fun space, with its cloud of cherry blossoms hovering over the bar and graphic graffiti on the walls. Sample the clever -izakaya menu, pairing matcha-infused vodka with small plates of blistered shishitos or ribs coated in hoisin and sticky gochujang paste. Add inventive sashimi and sushi, or order the miso-glazed black cod for a full repast. A back room of the restaurant houses Shibuya Nights, a trendy bar and lounge. D daily $$

Kettner Exchange 2001 Kettner Blvd. 619-255-2001 Everything at this architectural stunner—from the capacious dining room to the outdoor terrace and rooftop cabanas—has a cool vibe. Cushy tufted booths are the perfect perch for views of the full-grown tree soaring through the ceiling and the chic crowd sipping cocktails while sharing crisp-fried frog legs and duck meatballs. There’s a comfort-food -element to the hot and spicy garlic noodles with shrimp and Thai roasted pork shoulder lettuce wrap. Sunday brunch offerings include biscuits and gravy with buffalo sauce and Turkish poached eggs with yogurt, dill, and mint. The restaurant stays open late, with a smart casual dress code enforced after 9 p.m. Brunch (Sun), D daily $$

Little Frenchie 1166 Orange Ave. 619-675-0041 Sip a pomegranate bellini at a sidewalk table outside this Coronado charmer, and you’ll soon feel transported to the south of France. Black-and-white Parisian scenes add to the French bistro ambience inside the small dining room. All your faves are here, from escargots to crêpes to french onion soup. There’s an impressive wine list and a monthly featured champagne. Brunch, D daily $$

Serẽa 1500 Orange Ave. 619-435-6611 You can’t beat the sunset views from the terrace and window tables at this gem in the venerable Hotel del Coronado. (Read about the hotel’s literary connections in By the Numbers . ) Chef JoJo Ruiz celebrates the scenery with locally sourced seafood presentations, including a dazzling tower of baja shrimp and oysters. Go for the fragrant wood-grilled whole fish for a full-on feast. The airy restaurant also serves breakfast, a far less extravagant splurge. Note that construction around the restaurant is expected to conclude by summer. Reserve a table early for prime seats. B (M–F), Brunch (Sat, Sun), D daily $$$

Harbor and Shelter Islands, Point Loma, Ocean Beach

Bali Hai 2230 Shelter Island Dr. 619-222-1181 Pretend you’ve flown west 2,500 miles and plopped down in Hawaii as you sip a powerfully delicious mai tai at this mid-century tiki icon on the tip of Shelter Island. Sure, it’s a bit touristy, but there’s a reason locals and visitors return frequently. The mai tais are a big draw (selling nearly 3 million to date), especially when paired with coconut shrimp, flash-fried shishito peppers, poke, and other pupu. The Pan-Asian menu offers Korean fried chicken, wok-fried bass, and crispy ahi tuna. Windows face a stunning downtown skyline over San Diego Bay. Brunch (Sun), L (M–Sat), D daily $$–$$$

C Level 880 Harbor Island Drive 619-298-6802 There’s an endless naval parade on San Diego Bay within sight of this popular lunch and happy hour spot on Harbor Island, with aircraft carriers, cruise ships, catamarans, and kayaks sailing out to sea. The menu is a people pleaser, with lobster mac and cheese, fish and chips, and a thick filet burger. Lunchgoers line up early to claim one of the patio tables with picture-perfect views across the bay. L, D daily $$

Point Loma Seafoods 2805 Emerson St. 619-223-1109 Fish doesn’t get any fresher than what you’ll find at this iconic market and casual café, where glass cases are filled with a dizzying array of local and imported seafood. Once you’ve ordered your Alaskan cod tacos, house-smoked tuna sandwich, or other casual meal, find a table on the patio or upstairs on the deck and listen for your number. A sushi chef oversees another counter with trays of lobster and eel, while fishmongers cut gorgeous tuna, salmon, and swordfish steaks for home cooking. If you’re lucky, you may spot a fishing boat arriving with 200-pound yellowfin tuna ready to hang from the scales. L, D daily $–$$

Wonderland 5083 Santa Monica Ave. #2B 619-255-3358 Sun lovers claim benches by the windows for a panorama of sand and sea, while those seeking shade and conversation settle at high-top and standard tables around this Ocean Beach neighborhood favorite. A rotation of local craft beers is on tap at the center bar, and cocktails such as the Watermelon Cooler and Beach Cruiser suit the sandy vibe. If sharing snacks, try the spicy fried calamari or salty pretzel bites. It’s hard to give up even one bite of the tangy aguachile and ahi poke, however. There’s a bountiful surf and turf burger, a teriyaki plate with tofu, shrimp, or meat, and a robust chili made with six kinds of meat. Brunch (Sat, Sun), L, D daily $

George’s at the Cove 1250 Prospect St. 858-454-4244 La Jolla is the epicenter of fine dining in San Diego, with George’s smack in the bull’s-eye. Three dining options allow some wiggle room price-wise, with George’s California Modern topping the fine-dining charts. The ground-level dining room’s minimalist décor focuses the eye on the stunning coastal views, while the cuisine -demonstrates chef Trey Foshee’s award-winning skills. On the -rooftop, George’s Ocean -Terrace is a lively, sun-drenched bistro with open-air views of La Jolla Cove, while the middle-floor Level2 space offers the same menu in a cool, shady dining room. The menu satisfies a variety of appetites, with dishes such as salmon tartare with yuzu aioli and duck leg confit with cocoa nib purée as well as burgers and fried chicken sandwiches. L, D daily $$–$$$

The Marine Room 2000 Spindrift Dr. 858-459-7222 This venerable dining room has been drawing crowds since opening in 1941, thanks to its location at La Jolla Shores’ tideline. The water rises to window height during high tide, and waves sometimes crash against well-fortified glass, thrilling diners. Impeccable service in an unfussy yet elegant setting enhances the stellar SoCal cuisine. Imaginative preparations include king salmon with wagyu-fat sous-vide carrots and huitlacoche, while stalwart favorites include the filet mignon with bone-marrow butter and Gorgonzola potato. A smart California casual dress code is enforced. D (W–Sun) $$$

Nine-Ten 910 Prospect St. 858-964-5400 At lunchtime, Jamaican-born chef Jason Knibb’s creations include poached mussels with Calabrian chilies and the fan-favorite jerk pork belly with plantains and black-eyed peas. Dinner includes jerk chicken, smoked duck breast, lamb loin, and a juicy half-pound Angus burger. Tables are clad with white linens, and well-spaced booths enable quiet conversation, a rarity these days. Brunch (Sat, Sun), B, L (W–F), D (W–Sun) $$–$$$

Mexican, Por Favor

Mexican restaurants abound in San Diego. Locals feed their late-night taco cravings at neighborhood takeouts, but there are plenty of places for -sit-down feasts as well. Here are a few noteworthy spots.

Casa Guadalajara 4105 Taylor St., 619-295-5111. This cavernous restaurant is the place to go if you want to hear excellent mariachis (on weekends) amid a whirlwind of hanging paper cutouts, sombreros, piñatas, and waitresses in ruffled, embroidered dresses. Huge portions of Mexican standards come on painted pottery plates and the margaritas have a distinctive, pleasing flavor. The courtyard is lovely at lunchtime, with bright orange and yellow umbrellas shading tables. L, D daily $–$$

Cocina de Barrio 3924 W. Point Loma Blvd. and 3707 Fifth Ave., 619-222-6600 and 619-677-2770. Authentic Oaxacan-inspired cuisine makes this colorful strip-mall spot a standout. At dinnertime, tastebuds delight in the mango-habanero aguachile and the huitlacoche quesadillas. Other flavorful choices include mole negro short ribs and chamorro de borrego, a tender lamb shank said to be an instant hangover cure, which you might need after consuming the spicy mezcal cocktails. Vegans and vegetarians have much to choose from. Brunch daily, D (M–Sat) $$

Las Cuatro Milpas 1857 Logan Ave., 619-234-4460. Lines have stretched down the street outside this bare-bones cafe ever since it opened in 1933. The short menu is posted above the counter and consists of chicken or pork tacos and burritos, rice and beans, homemade tamales, and stretchy, tender tortillas. Order at the counter and stake out a table in one of several small rooms. There’s menudo, a proven cure for la cruda (hangover), on Saturdays. Cash only. B, L (M–Sat) $

Puesto 789 W. Harbor Dr., 619-233-8880. Slick design enhances Tijuana street eats at this fun hangout near the convention center. (It’s one of eight locations in the state.) Glass doors open to two stories of dining space plus an umbrella-shaded patio with fire pits and cozy couches. Authentic regional Mexican tacos take top billing. Order three for a good-sized meal, perhaps choosing a short rib quesabirria, a pozole, and a veggie version with garlicky mushrooms. L, D daily $–$$

Quixote 2223 El Cajon Blvd., 619-975-3889. Dazzling all senses, this North Park hot spot is part of the dining and entertainment mix at the reimagined Lafayette Hotel, which originally opened in 1946. Diners sample small plates in a reconstructed and decommissioned Mexican Catholic church that could be plopped right into the Sierra Madre. The imaginative menu includes a tlayuda (like a flatbread) with sauerkraut, of all things. The tamal is stuffed with mussels, and the carnitas features duck rather than the traditional pork. L, D daily $–$$

Longtime San Diegan MARIBETH MELLIN is an award-winning travel writer and author of Frommer’s San Diego Day by Day: 19 Smart Ways to See the City .

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