Top 10: San Diego

After our 1,200 mile drive across West Texas we were rewarded with a week in beautiful San Diego. Technically it was their “June Gloom”, but I didn’t care. There was enough beer and beach to go around. After my scientific calculations, here are the 10 best spots to hit when you’re in SD: 

10. World Famous

Tucked away on Pacific Beach, World Famous is a must if you can get a table for Brunch. Stellar lobster tacos and craft beers will cure your hangover. 

9. Woody’s Breakfast & Burgers

The view from Woody's upstairs patio

Another unassuming Pacific Beach boardwalk spot. Stop by here for a sandwich or breakfast burrito (served all day) and make sure you sit at the rooftop bar. The people watching below is top notch. 

8. La Puerta

We stumbled on La Puerta for lunch on a weekday, which was good because we could easily snag a table in this Gaslamp hotspot. Though they’re a Mexican restaurant, I ordered the bacon-wrapped hot dogs. I made the right decision. 

7. Hornblower Cruises

There are a few companies offering bay cruises in San Diego, and I happened to find Hornblower by chance. Their cocktail cruise is a perfect way to get a few drinks in while enjoying the best city views from the water. 

6. Pacific Beach Fish House

Easily the best fish tacos I’ve ever had. Swing by this local’s only spot for fresh seafood and a ton of beers on tap. Fire pit seating is great for a group as well. 

5. Petco Park

Home of the Padres, Petco is actually one of the cooler parks I’ve been to. Plenty of great food and beer options within the park (get the tri-tip nachos if you can find them), and our game also hosted Padres Beerfest. If only they could put a better product on the field…

4. Wonderland Ocean Pub

Wonderland is an upstairs oasis from the packed Ocean Beach neighborhood. Get there before sundown because they have sprawling window seats that have perfect views of the sunset over the Pacific. Live music and succulent beer-can chicken will make any night solid at Wonderland. 

3. Little Italy

This is the most deceiving neighborhood in town. Yes, there are some awesome Italian restaurants, but it’s also home to the trendiest new American bars and restaurants. Make sure you get a reservations, they’re surprisingly hard to come by. 

2. Pacific Beach

PB is the best neighborhood for dive bars and sandy restaurants. The beach itself is worth the trip. Not too big and not too small, you’ll always find a spot to put your towel. You can surf, play beach volleyball, or just relax any day of the week. 

1. Barrel Republic

By far my favorite bar in San Diego. Barrel Republic takes the frozen yogurt model and applies it to beer. They have over 40 beers on tap, and you pay for them by the ounce. You can try a few, or all of them if you’re adventurous. This is hands down the best way to try all of San Diego’s fine craft beers.