Favorite restaurants/cafes/bars

Question

Hi! We just booked 5 nights at the Catamaran Resort, for 5 nights, beginning September 9th. We have never been to San Diego before, we are very excited. We plan to see some sights such at Coronado Island, Little Italy, La Jolla, etc.. Can you recommend any favorite spots by the hotel, or in the other areas? We will have a car. Any nice casual or fine dining places that are on, or close to the water? We are celebrating our 40th wedding anniversary, so we would like one nice dinner. I'm not sure how cold it will be at sunset, but I love dining outside. I'd also love to have some great tacos and margarita somewhere. We are from Minnesota, so being by the water will be fantastic! Thank you very much, it's appreciated!

Answer

Congratulations on your 40th wedding anniversary! San Diego has an amazing food scene, and with your stay at the Catamaran Resort, you'll have great access to water views, casual spots, and fine dining. Here’s a detailed guide:

Near the Catamaran Resort / Mission Bay:

Oscar’s Mexican Seafood: Casual, great fish tacos, and fresh seafood. Not directly on water but very close by.
Hennessey’s Tavern: Laid-back bar with good food, a short drive inland, nice for a casual evening.
Catamaran on-site dining: Offers a nice waterfront experience for breakfast or casual dinner, with views of Mission Bay.

La Jolla:

George’s at the Cove: Fine dining with rooftop patio overlooking the ocean. Excellent for anniversary dinner, especially around sunset.
The Cottage: Breakfast/lunch spot with casual California vibes. Great for brunch after exploring La Jolla Cove.
El Pescador Fish Market: Casual seafood for takeout or picnic on the beach.

Coronado Island:

Peohe’s: Waterfront dining with a mix of seafood and sushi. Sunset views are excellent.
Il Fornaio: Italian dining along the waterfront, casual to semi-formal.
Coronado Brewing Company: Casual spot with craft beers, sandwiches, and nice outdoor seating.

Little Italy:

Bricco: Italian fine dining, excellent pasta and small plates.
Born and Raised: Upscale steakhouse with rooftop seating, fun for special occasions.
Mister A’s: Fine dining with skyline views of San Diego. Great for a romantic evening.
Taco & Margarita spots: Puesto or Carlos’ Mexican Food for casual, authentic tacos and good margaritas.

Tips for outdoor dining:

Even in September, San Diego evenings can get cool near the water. Bring a light jacket for sunset seating.
Reservations are highly recommended for George’s, Peohe’s, and Mister A’s, especially for anniversary dinner or sunset seating.
For casual tacos, try going a bit earlier or later than peak lunch hours to avoid long waits.

With a car, you’ll have no problem exploring these neighborhoods, and combining casual lunches with one or two special dinners will make your anniversary week both relaxed and memorable.

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