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Downtown San Diego Entertainment and Visitors Guide

A San Diego Real Estate Agent's Opinion

Table of Contents
Places to Visit
"If You Have the Time"
Highly Recommended
Music Venues
Sunset Cocktails
Steak Houses
Sushi and Seafood
Night Clubs
Happy Hour
Sports Bars
“Dive Bars”
Country Bars
Best Eats
San Diego Sports
Rentals
Other Important Links


Places to Visit

1) San Diego Zoo: 2920 Zoo Dr. (Uptown / Balboa Park)
PH: 619-234-3153
http://www.sandiegozoo.org/
Open 365 days a year from 9am till 6 or 8pm (seasonal)
Tickets prices: $32 adults $20 children ages 3-11

2) San Diego Wild Animal Park: 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd. (Escondido)
PH: 619-234-3153
http://www.sandiegozoo.org/
Open 365 days a year from 9am till 5 or 8pm (seasonal_
Ticket prices: Adults $28.50 Children $17.50 Plus $8 for parking

3) Sea World: 500 Sea World Dr. (Mission Bay)
PH: 800-25-shamu
http://www.seaworld.com/sandiego/default.aspx
Hours of Operation change on a daily basis, so call ahead of time.
Ticket Prices: Adults $54 Children ages 3-9 $44 (Single Day Pass)

4) Legoland: One Legoland Dr. (Carlsbad)
PH: (760)918-5346
www.halftondesign.com/legoland/legolandca/
Hours of Operation Range From 10-5,6,7,or 8
Ticket Prices: Adults $53.00 Children Ages 12 and under $43.00

5) Hotel Del Coronado: 1500 Orange Ave. (Coronado)
PH: 800-hoteldel or 619-435-6611
http://www.hoteldel.com/
The Hotel Del Coronado is a San Diego Icon. Located on the Island of Coronado just five minutes from Downtown, The Hotel Del sits perched on one of San Diego’s most popular resort beaches. Recreation, dining, group events, and a world class spa highlight the attractions list here.

6) Old Town: San Diego Ave
http://www.oldtownsandiego.org/
In addition to three historic parks, Old Town San Diego has many historic sites to
enjoy. Old Town captures the essence of the first settlers in San Diego. Spanish Missions litter this original community. This is truly the place to visit if you want to taste authentic Mexican cuisine. Enjoy Mariache bands, festive dancers, and tortillerias spinning out homemade tortillas in front of your eyes.

7) Balboa Park: 1549 El Prado (Uptown)
PH: 619-239-0512
http://www.balboapark.org/
Balboa Park is a wonderful place for families to spend time together. Explore art treasures from around the globe, fossils from near and far and exotic animals. Experience interactive fun with science. See sports memorabilia, world folk art, rare aircraft, ancient mummies, unique photographic art and model trains. Enjoy plays, dance, puppet shows and music. Hike Florida Canyon's trails, visit the Carnivorous Plant Bog in the Botanical Building and watch the sparkling water dance in the many fountains in the Park.

8) Sea Port Village: 849 West Harbor Dr. (Marina – Downtown San diego)
PH: 619-235-4014
http://www.seaportvillage.com/
Fifty-Seven one of a kind shops and galleries, four award winning restaurants, and thirteen sidewalk eateries headline this destination.

9) La Jolla Cove: 1100 Coast Blvd. (La Jolla)
http://www.lajollacove.com/
La Jolla Cove is a very small beach, tucked between adjacent sandstone cliffs. Due to its extraordinary beauty, La Jolla Cove is one of the most photographed beaches in Southern California. It is within a short walk of the commercial area of the community of La Jolla, but retains a character all it's own.

11) Museum of Contemporary Art: 700 Prospect St. (La Jolla)
PH: 858-454-3541
www.mcasd/com

On September 28, 1542, Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo landed at San Diego Bay. This event marked the first time that a European expedition had set foot on what later became the west coast of the United States. His accomplishments were memorialized on October 14, 1913 with the establishment of Cabrillo National Monument. The park offers a superb view of San Diego’s harbor and skyline. At the highest point of the park stands the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, which has been a San Diego icon since 1854. A statue and museum in the Visitor Center commemorate Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo's exploration of the coast of California. In a former army building an exhibit tells the story of the coast artillery on Point Loma. In the winter, migrating gray whales can be seen off the coast.

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"If you have the time"

Temecula Wine Tasting Tours: Temecula Wineries, Temecula, Ca
The Temecula wine country is quickly becoming a sought after travel destination. Approximately 1:15 from Downtown San Diego, this hillside community offers many of the amenities that you would find in the world famous Napa Valley. Many Limousine services as well as private charters are available for half day or full day tours. You don’t have to be a wine conosouier to enjoy the fine dining, social ambiance, and mountain side getaways offered here. Your best bet to book a trip would be to go into any local convenience store and ask for a copy of the San Diego Reader. The Reader is a free publication that publishes many resort and recreation coupons. You can also visit the Temecula Valley Wine Growers Associations web site at temeculawines.org I personally recommend the following wineries: 1) Wilson Creek 2) Thorntons 3) Callaway

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“Highly Recommended”

Del Mar Racetrack: 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. (Del Mar)
PH: 858-755-1141
2006 Season: July 19th- September 6th No racing on tuesdays
Tickets: Clubhouse $10, Grandstand $5 / $8, Restaurant Table Seating $80 for a party of four (all day)
The Del Mar Racetrack is located in a picturesque landscape along the Pacific Coastline in the world class city of Del Mar. Bing Crosby couldn't have said it better when he uttered the famous chorus “where the turf meets the surf”. Four o’ Clock Fridays feature a live performance after the races and always prove to be a great time. This is the perfect venue to host and entertain clients or reward co-workers or staff. There is something for everyone at Del Mar and I have yet to meet a person who doesn't’t enjoy the races in Del Mar

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Music Venues

Small Concert Venue:
House of Blues – 1055 Fifth Ave (Downtown) http://www.hob.com/

Large Concert Venue:
Coors Amphitheater – 2050 Entertainment Circle (Chula Vista) www.hob.com/venues/concerts/coors

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Sunset Cocktails

1) Manchester Grand Hyatt: One Market Place (Downtown)
PH: 619.232.1234 Hours: 3:00pm – 1:30am Dress Code: Upscale Cuisine: Cocktails & Appetizers
“Top of the Hyatt, sits high above the San Diego Bay with Panoramic views of the city, Coronado Island and beyond. Our location 40 stories above the Bay offers a spectacular setting from the tallest waterfront hotel on the West Coast. At the Top of the Hyatt, cocktails are an art form worth viewing.”

2) Four Seasons Aviara: 7100 Four Seasons Point (Carlsbad)
PH: 760.603.6800
This resort destination provides an award winning ambiance located on the rim of the Pacific. Enjoy brunch while overlooking the 18th hole of Arnold Palmers signature course, or enjoy a cocktail from one of the amazing restaurants or view points.

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Steak Houses

1) Morton's: 285 J St. (Downtown San Diego)
619.696.3369
Chicago Style Steakhouse – Prime cut selections served in a fine dining ambiance

2) Lou and Mickey's at the Gaslamp: 224 Fifth Ave (Downtown San Diego)
PH: 619.237.4900
Prime Steaks and Seafood served
Many patrons claim the best dirty martini can be found here

3) The Gaslamp Strip Club: 340 Fifth Ave. (Downtown San Diego)
PH: 619.231.3140
Done be fooled by the name. Only food is served here! This is not your traditional steak house. Hibachi grills are strategically placed around the restaurant for the ultimate “do it yourself experience” The Strip Club is one of my personal favorites for it’s atmosphere, but if your looking for fine dining, this is not’t it.

4) Donovan’s Steakhouse: 4340 La Jolla Village Dr. (La Jolla East of I-5)
PH: 858.450.6666
A large selection of vintage wines accompanied by world class food can be found here. Donovan’s has been the recipient of many “Best of” awards.

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Sushi and Seafood

1) Ono Sushi: 1236 University Ave. (Hillcrest)
PH: 619.298.0616
The combination of vibrance and creativity make Ono my personal favorite. The Lobster Taco appetizers served tostada style are amazing. The sushi rolls are the best in town and the halibut is a great choice as well.

2) Cafe Japengo: 8960 University Center Ln. (La Jolla East of I-5)
PH: 858.450.3355
Cafe Japengo has a very innovative menu, but equally attractive is the singles scene on Thursday nights and daily happy hours.

3) Blue Point Coastal Cuisine: 565 Fifth Ave. (Downtown San Diego)
PH: 619.233.6623
Blue Point is a 1940s style New York supper club featuring great martinis, the freshest seafood and prime aged beef. The dining room is lined with cherry wood and Frank Sinatra music is overhead.

4) Sushi on the Rock: 7734 Girard Ave. (La Jolla west of I-5 In the Village)
PH: 858.456.1138
The chef’s at Sushi on the rock serve the food with a flair. Located in the heart of the La Jolla Village, this restaurant is an enjoyable break from a day at the beach.

5) Oceanaire Seafood: 400 J St. (Downtown San Diego)
PH: 619.858.2277
The Oceanaire Seafood Room serves more than 25 varieties of fresh fish flown in daily from around the world. Reminiscent of a 1930's era ocean liner, the restaurant boasts an oyster bar & private dining rooms.

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Night Clubs

1) Stingaree: 454 Sixth Ave. (Downtown San Diego)
PH: 619.544.9500
There is just too much to list here. Posh, hip, hot, you name it. This is the place to be in San Diego. Get there early or you will find yourself out in the cold. The $20.00 cover charge seems steep, but really, they could ask whatever they wanted.

2) Air Conditioned: 4673 30th St. (North Park)
PH: 619.501.9831
One of San Diego's hottest new bars is also the coolest. Air Conditioned is a chic urban lounge with a relaxed neighborhood crowd.

3) Onyx: 852 Fifth Ave. (Downtown San Diego)
PH: 619.235.6699
Cocktails, urban beats, and an energetic dance area make this a sought after destination.

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Happy Hour

1) Yardhouse: 1023 Fourth Ave. (Downtown San Diego)
PH: 619.233.YARD
The Yard House is an upscale-casual eatery known for its extensive menu, classic rock music, and world's largest selection of draft beer. From classic lagers to more obscure ales and stouts there's a draft beer flavor for everyone. The menu is extensive and diverse and the 3-6 happy hour is outstanding

2) Pacific Beach Bar and grill: 860 Garnet Ave. (Pacific Beach)
PH: 858.272.1242
Seventy-Two T.V.’s, daily happy hour seven days a week, most extensive and best quality bar food I have ever had….what else could you ask for? Well, tan skin, sandals, and pool tables add to the top rated singles bar at the beach.

3) Gordon Biersch: 5010 Mission Center Rd. (Mission valley)
PH: 619.688.1120
Freshly brewed lagers, wood fired rotisserie and oven, live music, and complimentary valet parking, make this brewery restaurant a destination for local San Diegans and travelers alike. Friday Happy Hour is a legendary spot here.

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Sports Bars

1) OGGI’S: 2245 Fenton PKWY. (Mission Valley)
PH: 619.640.1072
OK, I am a little biased, but the abundance of t.v.’s, (both satellite and cable access to sporting events), micro-brewery, fresh made pizza, extensive menu (world famous “Killer wings”), and friendly atmosphere make this a great place to watch any sporting event. Children Friendly

2) McGregors: 10475 San Diego Mission Rd. (Mission Valley)
PH: 619-282-9797
Not an easy place to find if your from out of town, but well worth it. Located within a ¼ mile of Qualcomm Stadium, McGregors has great bar food, plenty of flat panel t.v.’s, shuffleboard, darts, pool tables, Golden Tee, and an outdoor patio for those who enjoy a smoke.

3) PB Bar and Grill and Moodogies: 800 Garnet Ave: (Pacific Beach)
These two bars are located side by side and can be considered the staple of the Pacific Beach lifestyle. Both bars have several t.v’s and serve great food. Both places cater to sporting events and the atmosphere is very relaxed. Where your sandals, t-shirts and shades here.

4) Seau’s: 1640 Camino Del Rio North (Mission Valley)
PH: 619-291-7328
Named after San Diego football icon Junior Seau, you can find the City’s largest t.v. here along with surround sound, a diverse menu, sushi bar, and a friendly atmosphere. Children Friendly

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“Dive Bars”

1) The Silver Fox: 1833 Garnett Ave. (Pacific Beach)
PH: 858-270-1343
A local pub with a true Southern California alternative vibe. The beer of the month is always a great choice and at 2 bucks a pop, you just can’t beat it. Thursday night 2 dollar you call it from 9 to close brings in the masses. Tattoo’s not required, but highly desirable.

2) The Lamplighter: 817 West Washington (Mission Hills)
PH: 619-298-2634
Dark, quaint, loud – A great place to meet your friends and sing Karaoke, or laugh at those trying. Drinks are inexpensive and therefore makes the Lamplighter the perfect place to start or end a night out.

3) Hooley’s Irish Pub and Grill: 2955 Jamacha Rd. (Rancho San Diego)
PH: 619-670-7468
Hooley’s Bar and Grill embodies the true Irish Spirit. An extended daily happy hour from 2-6, traditional Irish boxtys, live music on Friday and Saturday nights, and a great atmosphere make this east county bar worth the drive (approx.20 minutes from Downtown)

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Country Bars

In Cahoots Dance Hall and Saloon: 5373 Mission Center Rd. (Mission Valley)
PH: 619-291-1184
Three stories of all American Country….well, as American Country as San Diego can get. Wed. nights beer specials bring a diverse crowd and the place gets packed, so get there by 8. You don’t have to like country music to go, but it helps. Sprinkled in the middle of line dancing, boot scooting and the such you will find an occasional hip hop or top 40 song.

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Billiards

1) Dussini Mediterranean Bistro: 275 Fifth Ave ( Downtown)
PH: 619.233.4323
The high-ceilinged loft bar features a large U-shaped bar with a granite bar top and granite floor, persimmon-felt covered billiard tables and leather - and mohair - upholstered stools, chairs and booth seats. For sports lovers, television sets surround the room, making it a great meeting spot before and after Padres games at nearby Petco Park or for enjoying any televised events in splendor.

2) Society Billiards: 1051 Garnet Ave (Pacific Beach)
PH: 858.272.7665
Society billiards is a great place to kick off the night before hitting the hot spots at the Beach. Good food, full bar, plenty of space, and an audible atmosphere make this a unique find in the beach communities.
Table Fee: $5 per hour during the day; $10 per hour at night and $12 after 7 p.m. on weekends.

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Best Eats

Pizza

The Bronx Pizza:
111 Washington St. (Hillcrest)
PH: 619.291.3341

Mexican Food and Cantina

Fred’s Mexican Café:
1st location: 535 Fifth Ave (Downtown) PH: 619.232.8226
2nd Location: 2470 San Diego Ave (Old Town) PH:619.858.8226
3rd Location: 1165 Garnet Ave: (Pacific Beach) PH: 858.483.8226

Taco Shop (Fast Food)

Santana's Taco Shop:
1st location: 1480 Rosecrans St. (Point Loma) PH: 619.226.2033
2nd Location: 1525 Morena Blvd. (Bay Park) PH: 619.276.6010
3rd Location: Washington St (Mission Hills)
4th Locations: Garnett St. (Pacific Beach)

Burgers

Rocky’s Crown Pub:
3786 Ingraham St. (Crown Point / Mission Bay)
PH: 858.273.9140

Greek Food

Athens Market and Taverna: 109 West F St (Downtown)
PH: 619.234.1955
This may be one of my favorite restaurants in San Diego. The food here is amazing and it is more of semi-formal sit down restaurant; although, they do offer food to go. Try the lentil soup with whatever dish you order (piping hot French bread comes served and can’t be resisted)

Thai Food

Lotus Thai:
Location #1 906 Market St (Downtown) PH: 619. 595.0115
Location #2 3761 Sixth Ave. (Hillcrest) PH: 619.299.8272

Best Breakfast

Café on Park:
3831 Park Blvd: (Hillcrest)
PH: 619.293.7275

Mission Café:
3795 Mission Blvd (Mission Beach)
PH: 858.488.9060

Hash House:
3628 Fifth Ave. (Hillcrest)
619.298.4646

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San Diego Sports

San Diego Padres
http://www.padres.com/

San Diego Chargers
http://www.chargers.com/

Golf SD
http://www.golfsd.com/

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Rentals

Sign-on San Diego (San Diego Union Tribune)
http://www.signonsandiego.com/

The San Diego Reader
http://www.sdreader.com/

San Diego Craig's List
sandiego.craigslist.org

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Other Important Downtown Links

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