Back To Cali - ISSUE 4 FEB 2020

TOP 10 HANGOUTS in SD
It’s midnight, you’ve just gotten out of a movie on a first date, and it’s
going really well. You don’t want the night to end, but where do you
go at midnight? Lestat’s of course! From lattes to cold brew, you’ll
have nothing but options. In addition to a variety of coffee brews and
iced drinks, Lestat’s offers a wide selection of sandwiches and soups,
both for vegetarians and meat lovers. With locations sprawling across
the city of San Diego, Lestat’s is the go-to late night coffee shop. Inspired
by Anne Rice’s novel “Interview with a Vampire” it is modeled
after the infamous New Orleans French Quarter where you can always
find many interesting people after dark.
9. FIFTH AVENUE in HILLCREST
Whether you’re a music fan, a thrift-shop junkie, or just looking for
a bite to eat, ‘Fifth Avenue in Hillcrest’ is the place for you. With food
choices ranging from authentic Pho to some good old-fashioned
American diner grub, and endless shopping opportunities, you won’t
need to venture anywhere else. On a budget? Don’t fret, there’s countless
cafes and coffee houses, all within walking distance, providing a
perfect atmosphere for some good coffee and better conversation.
8. MIRAMAR BREWERIES
Looking to enjoy a selection of craft beer over a game of Connect
Four with good friends? Well look no further. In a day and age where
we see micro-breweries popping up left and right, “Beer-a-mar”, is
home to all the breweries you desire. By providing an extensive selection
of craft beers, a relaxed and intimate atmosphere, and numerous
games, why would you go anywhere else? From the everexpanding
Duck Foot Brewery, to the limited-edition beers of 2Kids
Brewing, the only negative experience is the “choice anxiety” you’ll
face.
7. LIBERTY STATION in POINT LOMA
Tucked away in the corner of San Diego and Point Loma, is the beautifully
quaint Liberty Station. Home to SD staples like The Corvette
Diner and Stone Brewing, Liberty Station provides a variety of places
to eat, or grab a beer, all set against the majestic skyline of San Diego.
The massive 360-acre park is p erfect for a first date, thanks to
the various coffee shops and paths that wind around the entire center.
Whether you’re looking for a place to bring your wife, your kids, or
your guests, Liberty Station is the place to go.
6. LITTLE ITALY
Bordering on downtown San Diego is the one and only hotspot for
Italian food, appropriately coined as Little Italy. While the original
Filippi’s Pizza resides on Little Italy’s own India Street, that’s not the
only place to soak in some San Diego based Italian culture. At one
time a small mom and pop sandwich shop, Mona Lisa is a MUST when
going to Little Italy. As you walk through the authentic Italian market
in front of Mona Lisa, make sure to check out the deli selection.
BY NICK BIANCO & MICHAEL DRENTEA
10. LESTAT’S COFFEE SHOP
5. CONVOY STREET
Most people wouldn’t see San Diego as a cultural hub. Much to their
disbelief, however, San Diego is a hotspot for international cuisine.
We’ve told you about Little Italy, but it’s time to tell you about Convoy.
Being the cornerstone for Asian culture in San Diego, Convoy
Street is home to miles of various ramen houses, boba cafes and
some of San Diego’s finest Korean barbeque. Located in the heart of
Kearny Mesa, Convoy Street is a perfect spot to stop for a quick coffee,
or to grab a bite to eat with a big group of friends.
4. NORTH PARK
While the term “hipster” might seem offensive at first, there’s nothing
offensive about the off-beat color of North Park. Home to some of
San Diego’s finest record stores and coffee shops, North Park is the
epicenter of all things up and coming. Grab some beer and waffles at
Belgian Beer & Waffles or as the locals call it “BBW” and catch your
new favorite band right around the corner at The Observatory North
Park. You’ll come for the experience, but you’ll stay for the character
of North Park.
3. PACIFIC BEACH
So, we’ve given the lowdown on where to go for a nice afternoon,
and a relaxed evening, but if you happen to be looking for something
with a bit more nightlife, Pacific Beach is the place for you!
Commonly referred to as PB, Pacific Beach is home to some of San
Diego’s most hip and happening bars, like ‘El Prez’ and ‘Backyard
Kitchen and Tap’. While PB appears to only cater to young college
students, it has a bit of something for everyone. Come cruise Garnet
Ave. for miles of fun!
2. SOUTH PARK
Just south of North Park is the cleverly named, South Park (we know,
it’s a bit on the nose). It’s a great place to go and grab something to
eat, or even just walk around. take a stroll down Fern street and take
in the beautifully quaint scenery as large trees line the streets. From
boutiques to independent coffee houses, South Park has it all.
1. BALBOA PARK
What would San Diego be without Balboa Park? Home to San Diego’s
best museums and scenery, Balboa Park is the perfect place
for a family outing. Go explore the Fleet Science Center, learn at the
Natural History Museum, or gaze at one of the many art museums
in Balboa Park. If you’re more interested in outdoor activities, follow
one of the countless trails that weave in and out of 1,200-acre plot
that is Balboa Park.
B A C K T O C A L I 9
Photo: Michael Drentea