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San Diego
Showing posts with label San Diego. Show all posts
food Food and Beverage Oceanside San Diego travel

Valle Restaurant Oceanside, California: Michelin Star Restaurant North County San Diego

Get a taste of Valle de Guadalupe without leaving the United States.  Venture to North San Diego County to eat at Valle. The eatery is now a Michelin-starred restaurant, making it one of the few in the Northern San Diego area. 

Valle Oceanside offers a formal Mexican dining experience with options to dine at the restaurant, hang out at the bar, participate in the chef's table, or do the El Sillón Bar Experience. Sit outside on the patio for an ocean-front dining view.

Valle Restaurant Oceanside, California Carmen Varner food and travel writer Michelin starred restaurant
Valle Oceanside interior

Chef Roberto Alcocer

Roberto Alcocer is Valle's executive chef. He has over 25 years of cooking experience with a particular flair for creating Baja Mexican fare. His restaurants include Malva (located at Carretera Ensenada Tecate Km 96 San Antonio de las Minas, Mexico) as well as Valle in Oceanside.

Valle Restaurant Oceanside, California Carmen Varner food and travel writer Michelin starred restaurant
Tomato consommé, Baja clams, blood clams, chocolata clams, Ensenada uni, smoked grapes.

Menu

The menu will vary. There isn't a menu listed on the website, so you may want to browse their Instagram to get examples of what to expect. As this is a fine dining restaurant, you won't get giant portions. They're on the smaller side, so you have room to eat the various courses. 

sign Valle Restaurant Oceanside, California Carmen Varner food and travel writer Michelin starred restaurant
Valle sign in Oceanside, CA

Hours

Valle Dining Experience 

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 5:00 - 9:00 PM 

Valle Bar 

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 4:00 - 10:00 PM

Chef's Table 

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 6:30 PM 

El Sillón Bar Experience

 Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 4:00 PM & 7:30 PM

Bar Valle Restaurant Oceanside, California Carmen Varner food and travel writer Michelin starred restaurant
Valle bar

Valle Information

Address: 222 N Pacific St Oceanside, CA 92054

Website: https://www.valleoceanside.com/

Bathrooms

Bathrooms are located outside, connected to the courtyard of Mission Pacific Hotel.

Parking

You can find street parking in the general area. There is a free parking garage further away and paid parking as well. You can also Uber or Lyft and get dropped off right at the entrance.


in the kitchen Valle Restaurant Oceanside, California Carmen Varner food and travel writer Michelin starred restaurant
Inside the Valle kitchen

Events and Other Information

If you appreciate Mexican cuisine and desire an elevated version, this San Diego Michelin star restaurant in Oceanside, CA is for you. As with most things, it's up to you whether you like it or if you find value in it. Take a look at the reviews and previous menus to see if it's something that suits your fancy. If you like experimenting with foods and enjoy experiential dining, then this could be a great match. The prices do reflect high-end dining. 

They have events, so this is a wonderful choice when you want to visit for a particular occasion, such as the Día de los Muertos Celebration. You may find these directly on the website.

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food Food and Beverage San Diego travel travel blogger

Dinner, Drinks, and Dessert at The Desmond San Diego at Kimpton Alma

Find fresh, delicious food at The Desmond, which is part of Kimpton Alma in the Downtown San Diego Gaslamp District. The Gaslamp is known for its nightlife but has its fair share of other things to do, whether you're with kids, on a romantic trip, or stopping by with friends.

If you're staying in the Kimpton Alma, consider getting dinner at The Desmond, which is located on the mezzanine level. 

The Desmond San Diego at Kimpton Alma downtown Carmen Varner food and travel writer

Where is The Desmond San Diego?

The address of The Desmond is 1047 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101. They invited me to have dinner, so I went with my family to see what goodies were on the menu. The menu centers around San Diego and California cuisine with options like seafood and pasta. 

Parking in Downtown San Diego

The hotel has valet parking, which is easier than circling the one-way streets of downtown San Diego in search of a spot. But if valet isn't your thing, you can drive further away to seek a place.

Food and Menu

If you enjoy bread, start with the roasted garlic and herb focaccia bread service. The menu seems to rotate through the seasons, so when I checked back about two months later, the items I got weren't on it. They have appetizers, entrees, desserts, and cocktails.

That said, I really enjoyed the fresh, housemade pasta. The ingredients and thoughtful presentations are focal points to ensure an experience unlike anything you'd get at an average restaurant. Each dish is carefully presented. 

It's a terrific spot to celebrate a birthday, retirement, or special occasion dining experience. The prices are above the standard burger joint but not as costly as you'd expect for a fine-dining restaurant. You can get a cocktail and entree for around $75-80, depending on your order. They also have a 3-course and 5-course menu but you can call ahead to inquire about this.

The Desmond San Diego at Kimpton Alma Carmen Varner food and travel writer

Desserts

The menu will vary, but you can expect incredible deliciously seasonal desserts. Don't leave without getting at least one. For example, they have a Wildflower Honey Coconut Tapioca that's made with mango custard, honey sweet mango, coconut geleé, and a bit of toasted coconut.

When I went, I had the Basque Cheesecake and Gianduia Chocolate Budino. Both were decadent and the perfect way to end the evening. Desserts cost $10-15, which is around the same price as a dessert at a pizza place in North County San Diego. 

Desmond Kimpton Alma downtown San diego food pasta

Cocktails at The Desmond

The cocktails are well-crafted and balanced with a range of alcohols and flavors, like Stranahan’s Whiskey. This drink is shaken with cardamom tea and lemon.

Ambience 

I went earlier during dinner service and was among the first people there. During dinner, several other patrons filtered through, whether on a date or business trip. It was still quiet and spacious. The bathroom stalls are gender-neutral and in one open-concept bathroom area.


Visit The Desmond San Diego in Southern California if you want a night of high-quality food experience. They are only open for dinner, but it's a lovely spot for a meal, wine, or dessert.

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California Little Italy San Diego

Things to Do Little Italy in San Diego

San Diego County has no shortage of things to do and places to see. San Diego’s Little Italy has been around since the 1920s. At the time, it provided residential living space as well as business space to Italian immigrants and families. This lively neighborhood with a rich history of Italian culture has evolved into a bustling area, preserving its cultural heritage while embracing the diverse nature of San Diego. 

Now Little Italy San Diego creates a community of both Italian and non-Italian businesses and business owners. Saturday mornings are particularly busy thanks to the Little Italy Mercato and weekend festivities.

Things to Do in Little Italy San Diego

  • Check out the Little Italy landmark sign. The Little Italy sign address is 1731 India St, San Diego, CA 92101.
  • Explore the Neighborhood by walking around.
  • Walk along India Street.
  • Relax by the fountain at Piazza Della Famiglia.
  • Attend Events in Little Italy San Diego. There are plenty of events throughout the year.
  • Go to mass at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church.
  • You can also browse the Little Italy Association of San Diego website to learn more about the neighborhood.

Grab a Bite to Eat in San Diego Little Italy

The streets are lined with traditional trattorias, cozy cafes, gelato shops, and other small businesses, enticing visitors with tantalizing aromas and authentic flavors. 

The Little Italy neighborhood in San Diego is a fantastic hub filled with Italian cuisine, cultural events, and plenty of things to do. There are several restaurants where you can find farm fresh produce, delicious food and Italian food, pizza, sandwiches, and more. 

  • Check Out happy hours at Little Italy San Diego's Italian restaurants.
  • Book Little Italy Walking Tour with Wine Tasting.
There are over 70 eateries and restaurants such as:
  • ALLEGRO 1536 India Street 
  • AMBROGIO15 550 West Date Street 
  • BALLAST POINT TASTING ROOM & KITCHEN RESTAURANT 2215 India St 
  • BAR ONE 1532 India St 
  • BARBUSA 1917 India St
  • BAYSIDE BAR & GRILL 555 West Ash St 
  • BENCOTTO ITALIAN KITCHEN 750 West Fir Street 
  • BOLT BREWERY 1971 India St
  • BORN & RAISED 1909 India St
  • BREAKFAST AT STEPHANIE'S 1501 India St 
  • BUN & PATTI 2171 Kettner Boulevard 
  • BUON APPETITO 1609 India St
  • BURGER LOUNGE 1608 India St 
  • CAFÉ GRATITUDE 1980 Kettner Boulevard 
  • CIVICO 1845 1845 India Street 
  • CLOAK AND PETAL 1953 India St 
  • COCO MAYA BY MISS B'S 1660 India St 
  • COOCOO'S NEST 550 West Date Street 
  • THE CRACK SHACK 2266 Kettner Boulevard 
  • CRAFT & COMMERCE 625 West Beech Street 
  • CRUDO CEVICHE & OYSTER BAR 1608 India St 
  • DAVANTI ENOTECA 1655 India St 
  • EL CAMINO 2400 India St
  • FABRISON'S 1425 India St 
  • FARMER'S TABLE 550 West Date Street 
  • FILIPPI'S PIZZA GROTTO 1747 India St 
  • THE GLASS DOOR 1835 Columbia Street 
  • GRAZE BY SAM 555 West Date Street 
  • HARBOR BREAKFAST 1502 India St
  • HERB & EATERY 2210 Kettner Boulevard 
  • HERB & WOOD 2210 Kettner Boulevard 
  • IRONSIDE FISH & OYSTER BAR 1654 India St 
  • ISOLA PIZZA BAR 1526 India St
  • JUNIPER AND IVY 2228 Kettner Boulevard 
  • THE KEBAB SHOP 303 West Beech Street 
  • KETTNER EXCHANGE 2001 Kettner Boulevard 
  • KING AND QUEEN CANTINA 1490 Kettner Boulevard 
  • LANDINI'S PIZZERIA 1827 India St
  • LITTLE ITALY FOOD HALL 550 West Date Street 
  • LITTLE ITALY'S LOADING DOCK 2400 Kettner Boulevard 
  • MEIN ST. ASIAN KITCHEN 550 West Date Street 
  • MIMMO'S 1743 India St 
  • MONA LISA ITALIAN FOODS 2061 India St 
  • MONELLO 750 West Fir Street 
  • MR. MOTO PIZZA 1702 India St 
  • MUSIC BOX 1337 India Street 
  • NOLITA HALL 2305 India St 
  • NOT NOT TACOS 550 West Date Street 
  • PETRINI'S 610 West Ash Street 
  • PRINCESS PUB & GRILLE 1665 India St 
  • PUERTO LA BOCA ARGENTINIAN RESTAURANT 2060 India St
  • QUEENSTOWN PUBLIC HOUSE 1557 Columbia Street RISTORANTE ILLANDO 1825 India St 
  • ROVINO ROTISSERIE + WINE 2034 Kettner Boulevard 
  • SAMSBURGERS 555 West Date Street 
  • SEMOLLA 550 West Date Street 
  • SHINO SUSHI & KAPPO 838 West Ash Street 
  • SOGNO DI VINO 1607 India St 
  • SOLUNTO 1643 India St
  • SORRENTO 1646 India St 
  • UNDERBELLY 750 West Fir Street 
  • VINARIUS WINE BAR & RESTAURANT 1445 India St
  • WATERCOLORS 401 West Ash Street 
  • WATERFRONT BAR & GRILL 2044 Kettner Boulevard 
  • THE YASAI 2254 India St 
  • ZINQUÉ 2101 Kettner Boulevard
Related reading: Things to Do at Mission Bay San Diego

Little Italy in San Diego by Carmen Varner Hernandez food and travel writer Italy San Diego San Diego's Little Italy

Stop by the San Diego Little Italy Food Hall

Get gelato or take a gander at the different options. Little Italy Food Hall has different stations so you can find a little something for each person in your party. 

  • Ambrigio15
  • Bobboi Natural Gelato
  • Coocoo's Nest
  • Graze by Sam
  • Little Italy Food Hall Bar
  • Mein St. Asian Kitchen
  • Not Not Tacos
  • Olala Crepes
  • Samburgers
  • The Mini Donut Company

Shop the Little Italy Mercato

You can find the Little Italy Mercato Farmer's Market every Saturday from 8 AM to 2 PM as well as every Wednesday from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM, year-round, rain or shine. There are loads of vendors selling produce, flowers, eggs, meat, fish, baked goods, groceries, crafts, products, and local food that you can support. The Mercato farmers market is 3 blocks, located from Kettner Blvd to State Street.

Explore Little Italy's Waterfront Park 

Located at 1600 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101 Waterfront Park is a public park that has spray fountains, grassy areas, and lots of space. This large space is often home to different events and festivals.

  • Take your pup to Little Italy Dog Park.
  • Head to Amici Park at 1660 Union Street, San Diego, CA 92101.
  • Art Galleries in Little Italy San Diego
  • Visit San Diego Firehouse Museum 
  • Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tours 
Little Italy in San Diego by Carmen Varner Hernandez food and travel writer Italy San Diego San Diego's Little Italy

Is Little Italy Considered Downtown San Diego?

Yes, Little Italy is in the downtown San Diego area, close to the Embarcadero. India Street runs through the heart of Little Italy. Downtown is a thriving area with a few neighborhoods. According to the San Diego tourism website, downtown SD consists of the Gaslamp Quarter, Embarcadero, Little Italy, East Village, and Barrio Logan. Little Italy is bordered by West Laurel Street, West Ash Street, the I-5, Front Street, San Diego Bay, and the Pacific Highway.

Is Little Italy San Diego Safe at Night?

Just like most places, keep your wits about you.

What are the best hotels to stay in Little Italy San Diego? 

Hotels

  • Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Downtown 
  • Hotel Republic San Diego Autograph Collection 
  • Best Western Plus Inn Bayside 
  • La Pensione Hotel 
Little Italy in San Diego by Carmen Varner Hernandez food and travel writer Italy San Diego San Diego's Little Italy

San Diego Art Walk

If you're in the area you can also visit Seaport Village, Downtown San Diego, the historic Gaslamp Quarter, Balboa Park, and other fun spots nearby.

  • Stroll through the neighborhood to admire colorful murals, public art installations, and unique boutique shops.

San Diego Little Italy

From the Little Italy landmark sign to lobster rolls, Little Italy is the perfect place to explore during your trip to San Diego County. For generations, Italian families and businesses have made this area their home.

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food Food and Beverage Oceanside San Diego travel

HIGH-pie at the Top Gun House in Oceanside, CA

You're walking to the Top Gun house in Oceanside, Southern California as you take in the view of the Pacific Ocean. The iconic house has a Victorian cottage exterior in a soothing hue of powder blue. There's a motorcycle by the entrance and someone hops on to take advantage of a pretty cool photo op. 

When you walk inside HIGH-pie, you notice the decorated interior. The Oceanside pie shop has nautical-themed wallpaper with whales, ships, and shells. Photos of the original Top Gun movie hang on the wall: Tom Cruise as Maverick giving a thumbs up, a signed Top Gun poster, photos from the film. There's one cupboard filled with teacups, plates, and knick-knacks and one cupboard filled with ceramics like spice containers, a chicken teapot, and a rolling pin. You take everything in as you make your way in line to order.

Read my other articles about Oceanside

Oceanside Harbor Restaurants 

Oceanside Pier: Restaurants, Fishing, Parking

HIGH-pie at the Top Gun House in Oceanside, CA Carmen Varner travel writer San Diego

Located in North County San Diego at 250 North Pacific Street, Oceanside, CA 92054 at the Mission Pacific Hotel, HIGH-pie serves tasty hand pies at the historic Top Gun house. The pie shop is open seven days a week from 12 pm to 8 pm. 

Oceanside, California is in North County San Diego County, about 45 minutes from downtown San Diego. Grab a bite to eat and then check out the other local businesses nearby.

HIGH-pie at the Top Gun House in Oceanside, CA Carmen Varner travel writer San Diego interior

HIGH-pie Menu 

You stand in line and look at the menu. There's the apple hand pie or the cherry hand pie. Each hand pie is filled with a fruit compote made from locally picked fruits. The pies are gluten-free, made with Thomas Keller’s Cup4Cup flour.

They also have the mini pie a-la-mode. The mini pies are filled with the house-made mascarpone ice cream, then fried, and baked to order. Choose from dipping sauces such as Charlie’s Chocolate, Government Cheese, Lemon Curd, and Sea Salt Caramel.

As for bevvys, HIGH-pie serves hot coffee as well as their take on New Orleans-style iced coffee made with sweet milk. They also have seasonal kombucha.

Visitors who love history will enjoy the long story behind this house! While you're in North County San Diego the area, walk over to the Oceanside Pier and enjoy the magnificence of the Pacific Ocean. Click here to read my article about the Oceanside Pier, nearby restaurants, parking, and more.

HIGH-pie at the Top Gun House in Oceanside, CA Carmen Varner travel writer San Diego apple hand pie

HIGH-pie at the Top Gun House in Oceanside, CA Carmen Varner travel writer San Diego cherry hand pie

The Graves House and the Top Gun Movie

The historic Graves House was built in 1888, owned by Dr. Henry Graves. In 1905, the house was sold to Charles Burlock. After that, Angeline Morgan owned the home for more than 40 years. Paramount Pictures used the home in the 1986 Top Gun movie. 

For several scenes in Top Gun, you can see Tom Cruise and Kelly McGillis in the home. Cruise plays Maverick while McGillis plays Charlotte ‘Charlie’ Blackwood, who owns the home. The characters chat and hang out in the house.

You can learn more about the Top Gun house on the Oceanside Historical Society website. The opening of HIGH-pie aligned nicely with the release of Top Gun: Maverick in 2022. 

HIGH-pie Information

HIGH-pie / Top Gun House Address: The house was moved from its original location about a block away to the Mission Pacific Hotel: 250 North Pacific Street, Oceanside, CA 92054

Website: The Famous HIGH-pie 

HIGH-pie was developed by Tara Lazar, chef, restaurateur, and hotelier behind the F10 Creative-hospitality group of restaurants:  Cheeky’s, Birba, Mr. Lyons, Seymour’s, and High/Low.

hand pies HIGH-pie at the Top Gun House in Oceanside, CA Carmen Varner travel writer San Diego

You'll want to stop by the long awaited HIGH-pie if you loved the original Top Gun movie, Tom Cruise, Kelly McGillis, if you're a foodie, or if you're a fan of sweets. The pies are small enough that you won't leave with a sugar-induced stomachache. Guests can sit and eat their delicious hand pies with a view of the beach.

There's a lot to do in the city of Oceanside! You can head to Oceanside Harbor Village and check the restaurants and eateries over there as well.

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food Food and Beverage San Diego travel

LAVO San Diego Italian Restaurant

LAVO San Diego has a large space with windows to let in the sunlight. Stay through nightfall and you'll witness the restaurant transform. Much like the sun setting, the dining room lights dim every once in a while until you're left with a lowlight. You can hear the restaurant buzzing with life; the chatter hums through the 15-foot high ceilings. LAVO San Diego guests include couples on dates, groups of friends, some trios. At the large bar area, a barstool sits between one man in a black suit, black socks, and black loafers and one man blue t-shirt, blue jeans, and flip flops. LAVO San Diego doors open at 5 pm every evening. Come for LAVO's playful cocktails and dinner. Enjoy the evening and stay until 11 pm, or 12 am on Fridays and Saturdays. Cheers!

LAVO San Diego Italian Restaurant the meatball downtown gaslamp Carmen Varner food writer
LAVO San Diego serves up cocktails and food until 12 am on Friday and Saturday.

LAVO Italian Restaurant in Downtown San Diego

The restaurant is located in Downtown San Diego at 611 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, LAVO Italian restaurant serves appetizers, salads, brick oven pizzas, housemade pastas, specialty cocktails, and more. 

The dining room area has 235 seats. Tao Group Hospitality Chief Culinary Officer Ralph Scamardella created a menu of dishes to delight your tastebuds. Popular items include the delicious pasta truffle dish, Truffle Ricotta Cavatelli, truffle fries, 20-layer chocolate cake with peanut butter mascarpone. Learn more on their website!

There are many fantastic restaurants, eateries, and bars in the city's historic Gaslamp Quarter. The Gaslamp is a lively neighborhood with artisan markets, live music, skate Sundays during the summer, and so much more. 

LAVO San Diego Italian Restaurant chopped antipasto salad
Pictured here are the chopped antipasto salad, the garlic bread, and The Meatball from LAVO Italian restaurant.

interior LAVO downtown San Diego Italian Restaurant Carmen Varner travel writer

Appetizers

On the LAVO restaurant San Diego menu, you can find popular appetizers such as the Baked Clams Oreganata made with Littleneck Clams, toasted breadcrumbs, and garlic butter or the garlic bread that comes with three types of dipping sauces: Basil Pesto, Marinara, and Gorgonzola Dolce. As a garlic lover, I loved the garlic bread as well as the variety of sauces to dip it in. If you enjoy the acquired taste that is Gorgonzola, you will love that sauce. I also tried the tuna tartare made with diced yellowfin tuna, avocado, crispy garlic, black olive dressing, and little crispy crackers. 

one pound Wagyu The Meatball LAVO San Diego Italian Restaurant Carmen Varner travel writer

The Meatball

The Meatball is the noticeable one pound Wagyu meatball served with marinara and a creamy fresh whipped ricotta. The Meatball is photo-worthy and video-worthy, perfect for foodies and anyone who loves head-turning food. The meat is tender, moist, flavorful, and almost melts into your mouth.

Salad

The chopped antipasto salad has gem lettuce, a variety of Italian cured meats, provolone, artichokes, roasted peppers, pepperoncini, marinated mushrooms, green beans, cherry tomatoes as well as the Creamy Italian Dressing. 

House Specialties

Then there are the house specialties like the Chicken Marsala or the grilled branzino with heirloom tomato, Panzanella, and salsa verde.

Pasta

Savor the flavor of housemade pasta. If you like truffle, mushroom, and pasta then you really can't go wrong with the Truffle Ricotta Cavatelli. This truffle pasta dish is decadent and scrumptious. Made with crema, mushroom ragu, and shaved truffle.

Brick Oven Pizzas

Brick oven pizzas are known for the char flecks, the texture, the taste. They make a statement, especially if you love pizza crust. LAVO Italian restaurant San Diego serves pizzas such as the Angry Maria with Calabrian chili, tomato, vodka sauce, basil pesto, and fresh mozzarella cheese.

Desserts

Notable desserts include the tiramisu or the 20 Layer Chocolate Cake made of chocolate devil’s food cake and peanut butter mascarpone.

Cocktails

Reviewers talk about the Sicilian Cartel with Dos Hombres Mezcal, fresh lime, egg white, and grapefruit cordial. I tried the Amalfi G N'T with Malfy Gin, Fever Tree Tonic, Italicus Bergamont, juniper, laurel bay, and lemon, delightfully botanical!

LAVO San Diego Italian Restaurant the meatball downtown gaslamp Carmen Varner food writer

Information

  • LAVO San Diego Address: 611 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
  • Phone number: (619) 762-5286 
  • Chief Culinary Officer Ralph Scamardella
  • Find it located in the city's historic Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego
  • Popular items at LAVO San Diego include the truffle cavatelli, the truffle fries, and garlic bread.
  • LAVO Website
Reviewers say they've come to LAVO for their husband's birthday, moms birthday dinner celebration, date night, group dinner, self-care solo dinner, and generally have a wonderful time hanging out at the restaurant. Based in a prime corner of San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, this restaurant aims to serve a vibe led dining experience with the absolute warmest welcome. Their food and decor come with a Southern Californian flair. People say they had such a special occasion, perfectly cooked seafood, sizeable food portions, and loved the food, especially The Meatball.

Looking for other food options in San Diego County? I talk about some food options in this article about Things to Do at Mission Bay San Diego. Windmill Food Hall in Carlsbad, California has a variety of vendors. I cover Encinitas coffee shops here. And of course, Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Google have heaps of information too.

What's your favorite item to order at LAVO? Have you been to the Lavo Las Vegas location?
Read more →
Carlsbad food Food and Beverage San Diego Things To Do travel

The Windmill Food Hall in Carlsbad, California - Hours, Food Vendors,

The Windmill Food Hall in Carlsbad, California is tucked in beautiful North County San Diego. This is the quintessential place to hang out if you're with a group of friends or family members and y'all can't decide where to eat. Each person can find amazing food options, craft beer selections, creative craft cocktails, and more to suit their taste under one roof. 

There are pastries, pizza, meat, BBQ, and other options. Food halls are all the rage thanks to their diversity of food and convenience. 

Photo of Windmill Food Hall in Carlsbad, California exterior

Windmill Food Hall is located in the iconic windmill building in Carlsbad, CA. The address is 890 Palomar Airport Road Carlsbad, California 92011. There is food, drink, happy hour, some outdoor seating and patio seating. If you are in the mood for coffee, check out my post on all the Carlsbad Coffee Shops. Carlsbad is near Oceanside, San Marcos, Vista.

Windmill Food Hall Hours

Windmill Food Hall is open daily.

Food Vendor Hours

Sunday-Thursday 11 am - 8 pm 

Friday-Saturday 11 am - 9 pm 

* Corner Coffee and El Puerto open daily at 8 am *

Bar Hours

Sunday-Thursday 11 am - 9 pm 

Friday-Saturday 11 am - 10 pm

Photo of the interior of Windmill Food Hall in Carlsbad, California restaurants food vendors

Windmill Food Hall - Food Vendors

Pick a place to eat at or mix and match with friends. Find something for each person's different tastes. There are benches and space to sit. You'll find food and drink options in this bustling food hall. The convenient ordering system allows you to order without having to wait for table service. Windmill Food Hall is a great environment for families with little kids. It also has open seating areas and benches.

Cacio

Build your own pasta and eat some classic Italian delights at Cacio. They have appetizers, soup, salad, subs, and chefs specials like their carbonara or the chicken tequila penne. The build your own pasta allows you to pick your noodles, sauce, and veggies. You can add protein or other sides for an additional fee.

Corner Coffee

Come to Windmill Food Hall for your daily caffeine buzz. Corner Coffee opens daily at 8 am and it's the first thing you see when you enter the hall. 

Craft Pizza

Pizza lovers rejoice. Craft Pizza serves red and white pizza (without marinara sauce), breakfast pizza, calzones, desserts, and some canned and bottled beverages. Gluten-free and vegan options are available.

District 1 Pho 

Menu items include the Build Your Own Bowl, Pho Dac Biet, Pho Tai, Banh Mi as well as starters such as egg rolls, bbq spring rolls, Nem Nuong spring rolls. You can also ask them about their street food of the week.

Photo of a fish taco from El Cacho at Windmill Food Hall in Carlsbad, California.
Taco Ensenada from El Cacho in Windmill Food Hall.

El Cacho

Fish Taco Stand is one of the newer stands at Windmill Food Hall. They have fish tacos and seafood like a shrimp and octopus cocktail.

El Puerto Street Tacos

El Puerto Street Tacos is open every day at 8 am. Food includes burritos, tacos, quesdillas, asada fries, side orders like corn tortillas, guacamole, salsa fresca. Vegan choices include The Vegan burrito and their potato fajita taco.

Lobster Lab

Grab your lobster roll, lobster bisque, cali roll, crab roll, clam chowder, and more at Lobster Lab. You can also get caviar on brioche with herbed cream cheese, hard-boiled egg, and chives.

Mini Donut Company

The Mini Donut Company offers, yes you guessed it, mini donuts. These are perfect when you want something small. 

Mediterranean House 

Gyros, ground beef kebab wraps, hummus, oh my. Mediterranean House has plenty of delectable appetizers, plates, sandwiches, wraps, salads, drinks, and sauces! Vegan options such as falafel, dolmades, and more.

Rolled Up Sushi 

Sushi burritos, bowls, and rolls. Rolled Up Sushi has bowls and burritos such as chicken teriyaki or spicy tuna. Sushi rolls include veggie, Philly roll, poke roll, and more. They also have some drinks and offerings like Spam musubi and seaweed salad.

Secret Sauce Wok & Grill

Secret Sauce Wok & Grill has appetizers (such as crab rangoons or mini lumpia), soups, a lunch menu, dinner menu (Mongolian Beef, Szechuan Beef, etc.), drinks, and other goodies. Vegan options are available as well.

Thai Style 

Eat Thai food at Thai Style which started in 2015 as a vendor in local farmer's markets. Windmill Food Hall is their first brick-and-mortar location. They make every sauce and prepared every ingredient in-house.

The Mill Bar 

The Mill Bar offers happy hour Monday all day and 4 pm - 6 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday. Cocktail, draft beer (as well as pints, pitchers, bottles, and cans), wine, rose, sangria. It's at The Mill Bar. Veterans, active military, firefighters, police officers, medics, and health care workers enjoy 25% off at the bar.

Photo of art at Windmill Food Hall in Carlsbad, California restaurants. In the photo there is a mural of a woman, an ATM, and window showing the patio.

Parking at Windmill Food Hall

Parking is easy to navigate when you drive in. Just find a spot and park.

Support local restaurants and local business and grab a bite to eat at Windmill Food Hall, where you can find a wide variety of cuisines to choose from. There are a lot of things to do in North County San Diego, California. Come visit and bring the family, kids or a couple of friends and savor the moment. Discover new food local vendors or pick something up for takeout. It's a casual and buzzing place to dine. Head to Windmill Food Hall in Carlsbad, CA! Satisfy your cravings any time of the day. Carlsbad has a lot of restaurants and eateries to try based on your needs, from gluten-free to vegan. 

Related reading: 

Things to Do in Oceanside, California: Restaurants, Coffee Shops, What to See

Things to Do in Encinitas, California: Don't Miss This North County San Diego Gem

Vista Breweries: Craft Beer in North County San Diego


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Things to Do at Mission Bay San Diego

Discover the fine dining, incredible views, catamaran rides, beer brewing classes, outdoor activities, and bay side hotels of Mission Bay! I saw everyone from families with children to bachelorette parties to tech conferences enjoying the many splendors of Mission Bay. There are so many fun things to do in Mission Bay San Diego!

greetings from Bahia Resort Hotel Things to Do at Mission Bay San Diego
Greetings from Bahia Resort Hotel in San Diego Mission Bay.

Located in Southern California, Mission Bay's magic lies in its recreational splendor and central location. Appreciate the warm sandy beaches, marine life, restaurants that'll wow your taste buds, and poolside relaxations of sunny San Diego Mission Bay. 

Downtown San Diego, Pacific Beach, Mission Beach, and Ocean Beach are just a hop skip and a jump away. 

There are loads of activities, attractions, eats, and things to do in Mission Bay San Diego. Mission Bay can act as your beacon point, the place you come to each night to sleep as you venture out. You can stay close by at Belmont Park or SeaWorld San Diego and spend the day there, or explore the vibrant city of San Diego further at Balboa Park, La Jolla, Seaport Village.

Things to Do at Mission Bay San Diego

Mission Bay Aquatic Center

Head out on the water of San Diego's Mission Bay for your choice of water sports such as jet skiing, paddle boarding, kayaking, and more. The Mission Bay Aquatic Center is a huge waterfront facility located in beautiful San Diego, California. Want to get out on the water? You can rent equipment, jet skis, whatever you need from Action Sport Rentals. The Mission Bay waters await your arrival. 

Rent a Luxury Catamaran

You could rent a luxury yacht or catamaran from Malarky Charters to sit back and wind down to the view of the bay. You might see some sea creatures like sea lions, pelicans, dolphins, California gray whales, blue whales, and other wildlife while you're out there!

Bahia Belle Cruises

Take a 45-minute Mission Bay night cruise on the Bahia Belle, a turn-of-the-century, Mississippi-style boat. Watch the calm waters surrounding the 4,200-acre park from inside Bahia Belle Cruises or get the scenic view from the observation deck. 

Mission Bay Golf Course 

Mission Bay Golf Course and Practice Center is an 18-hole public golf course and driving range designed by Ted Robinson.  It's the only stadium lit course in San Diego and it also offers DiscGolf and FootGolf. Tiger Woods won a Junior World title here. As he says in his book The 1997 Masters: My Story, "I knew something about efficiency, having learned a good lesson when I was 11-years-old and playing the Optimist Junior World Championship at Mission Bay Golf Course in San Diego." 

Belmont Park

Spend the day at Belmont Park, a beachfront theme park with amusement rides such as the historic Giant Dipper roller coaster, historic Plunge swimming pool, laser tag, and more. Find Belmont Park at 3146 Mission Blvd. San Diego, CA 92109.

SeaWorld San Diego

SeaWorld has rides, rollercoasters, dining, and of course animals, which makes Sea World a popular spot for tourists and locals alike to bring their families for the day. 

photo of travel writer Carmen Varner holding champagne with a view of the water at Mission Bay as she cruises on a catamaran thanks to Malarky Charters
Holding champagne on a catamaran on Mission Bay thanks to Malarky Charters.

Fiesta Island

Explore Fiesta Island and bring the dogs! Fiesta Island is a large peninsular park located within San Diego's Mission Bay. It's dog-friendly and horse-friendly as well. There are no bathrooms on the island. Picnics are permitted, but glass containers or alcohol are not allowed. Bonfires are allowed only in the city-provided fire rings located around the island's shoreline.

Mission Bay Park

The list of things to do in Mission Bay San Diego doesn't end! Mission Bay Park is located within walking distance of Belmont Park, the Pacific Ocean, and restaurants. Mission Bay Park also has a walking and biking trail. I rode along the Mission Bay Park trail with Fit City Adventures. You can see the ocean as you ride past tourists, food vendors, and locals walking around.

De Anza Cove Park

Get some California sunshine in a park. De Anza Cove Park is located at 3000 N Mission Bay Dr, San Diego, CA 92109. The park has a volleyball area, a tot lot to bring the kids, benches, picnic tables, as well as a path for jogging or riding bikes.

Crown Point Park 

Located at Crown Point Dr, San Diego, CA 92109, Crown Point Park has a picnic shelter, picnic tables, barbecue grills, fire rings, large sandy beach with a small grass area.

Hotels

There are a few hotels conveniently located in San Diego Mission Bay. Spa treatments, good eats, Each one has its own vibe so you can factor that in when choosing. Here are a few things that you can do at each hotel in the Mission Bay area!

  • Bahia Resort Hotel 
  • Catamaran Resort Hotel
  • The Dana On Mission Bay
  • Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa And Marina
  • Paradise Point Resort & Spa 
  • San Diego Mission Bay Resort

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A post shared by Carmen ⭐️ San Diego Foodie (@carmenlikestoeat)


Things to Do at Mission Bay San Diego Dockside 1953 Bahia Resort Hotel  butterscotch banana French toast
Butterscotch Banana French Toast 🍌 🍞 Banana-Stuffed Brioche, Cream Cheese, Vanilla Butterscotch Glaze with Granola Crumble from Dockside 1953.

— Luxuriate with the waterfront dining views at Dockside 1953, the new restaurant at Bahia Resort Hotel. The butterscotch banana French toast is out of this world.

— Grab drinks at Barefoot Bar & Grill at Paradise Point Resort & Spa. 

— Eat the menu of the night at Tidal. Find Tidal at Paradise Point Resort & Spa right near Barefoot Bar & Grill. Learn more about Tidal here.

— Eat with your eyes and mouth at Firefly Eatery & Bar. The Firefly at The Dana On Mission Bay Resort features seasonal, local ingredients that will charm all your senses. Learn more about Firefly here.

— Relax with luxurious spa treatments at Spa Brezza at San Diego Mission Bay Resort.

— Order a tasty iced coffee from Mission Bay Beach Club. The San Diego Mission Bay Beach Club is a waterfront destination for coffee, bike rentals, ice cream, and more.

— Dine in at Oceana Coastal Kitchen at Catamaran Resort Hotel. Ocean Coastal Kitchen serves California cuisine with a modern ocean-inspired design.

— Try the katsu chicken at Covewood Restaurant at San Diego Mission Bay Resort.

— When you stay at The Dana On Mission Bay Resort, you get access to the seasonal Tropical Pool Bar. It's the perfect spot to just savor the moment. 

— If you want to head more toward Downtown San Diego, try a meal at LAVO San Diego.


Beautiful creation from Firefly’s New Executive Chef, Omar Armas! Almost too pretty to eat, but I ate it anyway. 😇
Beautiful creation from Firefly’s New Executive Chef, Omar Armas! Almost too pretty to eat, but I ate it anyway. 😇

So Many Fun Things to Do in Mission Bay with Family and Friends

Mission Bay is a short drive from Downtown San Diego, so you can easily get here from the San Diego International Airport. You can visit Pacific Beach, Mission Beach San Diego, Ocean Beach, La Jolla, and all the San Diego spots. Enjoy waterfront dining, beach bonfires, poolside relaxation, and everything your heart desires. It's a beautiful area with incredible dining options, great hotels, and tons of fun things to do! Take a look at some of the Mission Bay beach cams to see the area for yourself. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip now!

Nearby Attractions

If you want to surf, the Pacific Ocean is a quick drive away. The San Diego Zoo, Mission Beach Boardwalk, Crown Point Beach, Bonita Cove, shopping in Mission Valley are very popular options as well. 

There are loads of options on things to do at Mission Bay San Diego, no matter if you are sporty or just want to chill. Play beach volleyball, relax in the hot tub of your hotel, view the sea life, head to the theme parks, play bumper cards, visit the surf shops, go water skiiing, eat fish tacos,

About me: I'm Carmen Varner, I'm a San Diego-based food and travel writer. You can learn more about me here.

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