Essential San Diego Eateries & Where to Find Them
Katie Howerton
Finding a place to grab coffee, eat lunch, or enjoy a nice dinner while traveling is hard enough as is, but when you’re in a big city, the options are truly overwhelming. While my guides are full of one-of-a-kind restaurants for certain neighborhoods, this Essential Eateries map includes the top few San Diego-specific chains that will help you eat like a local on the go. Not only that, but I include a backstory of each chain, my top menu suggestion, and what I consider to be the best location to visit. This guide can also serve as a “What NOT to Eat” if you’re the kind of person who only wants to try single-location restaurants and want to determine if the place you’re interested in dining is a chain. Just pull up this map when you’re out and about to see where the nearest spots are when your tummy starts rumbling! Get access to ALL the San Diego area locations of 9 regional chains, including: ☕️ 2 Coffee Shops 🥐 1 Bakery 🥡 5 Fast-Casual Restaurants 🍦 1 Dessert Spot Worried this info is out-of-date? Fear not! I'll be updating this guide every six months for accuracy, as well as to add new favorites I find along the way.
81 Places • 8 Saves • ago
Free

Coffee

Better Buzz Coffee Roasters

Better Buzz began in 2002 and has taken over the San Diego coffee scene with their great beverages and fun environments.

What to Order

The Best Drink Ever® + an OG Acai Bowl

My Favorite Location

There are FOUR locations in Pacific Beach right near the ocean as well as SeaWorld.

Better Buzz Coffee Roasters
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Better Buzz Coffee Miramar
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Better Buzz Coffee Roasters Pacific Beach West
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Better Buzz Coffee La Jolla
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Better Buzz Coffee Drive-Thru
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Better Buzz Coffee Point Loma
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Better Buzz Coffee Roasters
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Better Buzz Coffee Escondido
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Better Buzz Coffee: Pacific Beach
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Better Buzz Coffee Roasters
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Better Buzz Coffee Roasters
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Better Buzz Coffee Roasters
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Dark Horse Coffee Roasters

Dark Horse started serving the San Diego community in 2013 and now has locations in Orange County and Kauai.

What to Order

The Champ

My Favorite Location

The Chula Vista location is near the water.

Dark Horse Coffee Roasters
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from 7x7, 6 locations
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Dark Horse Coffee Roasters
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from 7x7, 6 locations
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Dark Horse Coffee Roasters
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from 7x7, 6 locations
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Dark Horse Coffee Roasters.
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from 7x7, 6 locations
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Dark Horse Coffee Roasters
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from 7x7, 6 locations
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Dark Horse Coffee Roasters
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from 7x7, 6 locations
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Bakeries

Paris Baguette

Paris Baguette was founded by a South Korean family in 1988 with a mission to serve high quality pastries in a neighborhood environment. While they operate over 3,600 stores in South Korea, the US only has about 100 locations; you can find others on the East Coast, too.

What to Order

Literally anything, it's so good

My Favorite Location

The Mira Mesa Boulevard location is near Lake Miramar.

Paris Baguette
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Ace Hotel, small intl chain.
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Paris Baguette
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Ace Hotel, small intl chain.
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Paris Baguette
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Ace Hotel, small intl chain.
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2588 El Camino Real
@katie.howerton
Paris Baguette - Suggestion from Ace Hotel, small intl chain.
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Fast-Casual Dining

Luna Grill

Luna Grill first opened in 2004 in San Diego with one purpose: to inspire good food choices. You can now find more than fifty of their Mediterranean kitchens throughout California and Texas.

What to Order

Loaded Fries, a Santorini Bowl, + Baklava

My Favorite Location

The Fenton Parkway location is near the Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala.

Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill - Rancho San Diego
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Pick Up Stix Fresh Asian Flavors

Pick Up Stix was started by a Chinese immigrant in Rancho Santa Margarita in 1989 and now boasts more than 50 locations throughout California.

What to Order

The House Special Chicken + Cream Cheese Wontons

My Favorite Location

The Carlsbad location is right on the water and near LEGOLAND.

Pick Up Stix Fresh Asian Flavors
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 70+ locations.
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Pick Up Stix Fresh Asian Flavors
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 70+ locations.
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Pick Up Stix Fresh Asian Flavors
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 70+ locations.
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Pick Up Stix Fresh Asian Flavors
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 70+ locations.
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Pick Up Stix Fresh Asian Flavors
@katie.howerton
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Pick Up Stix Fresh Asian Flavors
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 70+ locations.
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Pick Up Stix Fresh Asian Flavors
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 70+ locations.
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Pick Up Stix Fresh Asian Flavors
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 70+ locations.
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Robeks

Robeks was founded in 1996 in SoCal with a mission to serve customers all their vitamins in one serving through smoothies, and now they've got 83 locations throughout the US.

What to Order

The Tropi-Kale or Hummingbird

My Favorite Location

The Bernardo Center Drive location isn’t far from the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

Robeks Fresh Juices & Smoothies
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 80+ US locations
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Robeks Fresh Juices & Smoothies
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 80+ US locations
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Robeks Fresh Juices & Smoothies
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 80+ US locations
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Robeks Fresh Juices & Smoothies
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 80+ US locations
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Robeks Fresh Juices & Smoothies
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 80+ US locations
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Robeks Fresh Juices & Smoothies
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 80+ US locations
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Robeks Fresh Juices & Smoothies
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 80+ US locations
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Robeks Fresh Juices & Smoothies
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 80+ US locations
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The Taco Stand

The Taco Stand opened its first location in San Diego in 2013 and has had their fame spread to Miami, Las Vegas, and Orange County.

What to Order

Anything with their 100% Angus Beef Carne Asada Taco

My Favorite Location

The Upas Street and B Street locations are right outside Balboa Park, where the San Diego Air & Space Museum and San Diego Zoo are.

The Taco Stand
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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The Taco Stand
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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The Taco Stand
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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The Taco Stand
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch, 8 locations
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The Taco Stand
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Tender Greens

The first Tender Greens location opened in 2006 in Culver City and now operates 28 restaurants, each with their own executive chef.

What to Order

Anything with Steak (medium rare) + The Greens drink

My Favorite Location

The Historic Decatur Road location is right by the San Diego Airport for a quick meal before leaving town.

Tender Greens
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 25+ CA locations.
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Tender Greens
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 25+ CA locations.
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Tender Greens
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 25+ CA locations.
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Tender Greens
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 25+ CA locations.
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Tender Greens
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 25+ CA locations.
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Table Service Dining

Filippi’s Pizza Grotta

*Information coming soon*

Filippi's Pizza Grotto Escondido
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Madeleine Lewis, 15 locations
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Filippi's Pizza Grotto Poway
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Madeleine Lewis, 15 locations
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Filippis Pizza Grotto Pacific Beach
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Madeleine Lewis, 15 locations
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Filippi's Pizza Grotto Mission Valley
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Madeleine Lewis, 15 locations
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Filippi's Pizza Grotto Santee
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Madeleine Lewis, 15 locations
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Filippi's Pizza Grotto Kearny Mesa
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Madeleine Lewis, 15 locations
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Filippi's Pizza Grotto Imperial Beach
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Madeleine Lewis, 15 locations
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Filippi's Pizza Grotto Jamul
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Madeleine Lewis, 15 locations
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Filippi's Pizza Grotto Chula Vista
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Madeleine Lewis, 15 locations
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Filippi's Pizza Grotto Scripps Ranch
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Madeleine Lewis, 15 locations
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Filippi's Pizza Grotto Little Italy
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Madeleine Lewis, 15 locations
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Filippi's Pizza Grotto Italian Market
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Madeleine Lewis, 15 locations
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Dessert

Sprinkles Cupcakes

Sprinkles' first cupcake shop opened in Beverly Hills in 2005, and over two dozen locations later, they are known for their iconic Cupcake ATMs and have also expanded into the ice cream scene.

What to Order

A Red Velvet Cupcake or seasonal offering

My Favorite Location

The La Jolla locations are near the beach.

Sprinkles La Jolla
@katie.howerton
LOVE! Small US chain.
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Sprinkles UTC ARM
@katie.howerton
LOVE! Small US chain.
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Sprinkles Westfield UTC ATM
@katie.howerton
LOVE! Small US chain.
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Sprinkles Westfield Plaza Bonita ATM
@katie.howerton
LOVE! Small US chain.
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Hungry for more dining suggestions?

More Essential Eateries Guides

$15.00
Essential Los Angeles Eateries & Where to Find Them
Finding a place to grab coffee, eat lunch, or enjoy a nice dinner while traveling is hard enough as is, but when you’re in a big city, the options are truly overwhelming. While my guides are full of one-of-a-kind restaurants for certain neighborhoods, this Essential Eateries map includes the top few LA-specific chains that will help you eat like a local on the go. Not only that, but I include a backstory of each chain, my top menu suggestion, and what I consider to be the best location to visit. This guide can also serve as a “What NOT to Eat” if you’re the kind of person who only wants to try single-location restaurants and want to determine if the place you’re interested in dining is a chain. Just pull up this map when you’re out and about to see where the nearest spots are when your tummy starts rumbling! Get access to ALL the Los Angeles area locations of 34 regional chains, including: ☕️ 7 Coffee/Tea/Boba Shops 🥐 2 Bakeries 🥡 15 Fast-Casual Restaurants 🍽️ 5 Table Service Restaurants 🍦 5 Dessert Spots Worried this info is out-of-date? Fear not! I'll be updating this guide every six months for accuracy, as well as to add new favorites I find along the way.
Curated by Katie Howerton
378 Places • ago
Details
$5.00
Essential Orange County Eateries & Where to Find Them
Finding a place to grab coffee, eat lunch, or enjoy a nice dinner while traveling is hard enough as is, but when you’re in a big city, the options are truly overwhelming. While my guides are full of one-of-a-kind restaurants for certain neighborhoods, this Essential Eateries map includes the top few Orange County-specific chains that will help you eat like a local on the go. Not only that, but I include a backstory of each chain, my top menu suggestion, and what I consider to be the best location to visit. This guide can also serve as a “What NOT to Eat” if you’re the kind of person who only wants to try single-location restaurants and want to determine if the place you’re interested in dining is a chain. Just pull up this map when you’re out and about to see where the nearest spots are when your tummy starts rumbling! Get access to ALL the OC locations of 12 regional chains, including: ☕️ 1 Coffee Shop 🥐 1 Bakery 🥡 7 Fast-Casual Restaurants 🍽️ 2 Table Service Restaurants 🍦 1 Dessert Spot
Curated by Katie Howerton
109 Places • 1 Save • ago
Details
$5.00
Essential Boston Eateries & Where to Find Them
Finding a place to grab coffee, eat lunch, or enjoy a nice dinner while traveling is hard enough as is, but when you’re in a big city, the options are truly overwhelming. While my guides are full of one-of-a-kind restaurants for certain neighborhoods, this Essential Eateries map includes the top few Boston-specific chains that will help you eat like a local on the go. Not only that, but I include a backstory of each chain, my top menu suggestion, and what I consider to be the best location to visit. This guide can also serve as a “What NOT to Eat” if you’re the kind of person who only wants to try single-location restaurants and want to determine if the place you’re interested in dining is a chain. Just pull up this map when you’re out and about to see where the nearest spots are when your tummy starts rumbling! Get access to ALL the Boston area locations of 14 regional chains, including: ☕️ 2 Coffee Shops 🥐 5 Bakeries 🥡 5 Fast-Casual Restaurants 🍽️ 1 Table Service Restaurant 🍦 1 Dessert Spot Worried this info is out-of-date? Fear not! I'll be updating this guide every six months for accuracy, as well as to add new favorites I find along the way.
Curated by Katie Howerton
122 Places • 2 Saves • ago
Details

Check out my other travel content, too!

Free
2022 Travel Journal
2022 was the year of a lot of travel redemption for most of us, but it was also the year I had to turn down trips to Portugal, Spain, and Paris, as well as have a trip to New Orleans cancelled due to Covid. But thankfully that didn’t stop me from a spring road trip to Texas, a few summer days in DC, two trips to Disney World, and lots of Tennessee day trips in between. Enjoy this travel journal of 350 (!!!) places, including: 🖼️ 42 Museums, Gardens, and Attractions ☕️ 50 Coffee Shops 🍽️ 99 Restaurants, Bakeries, and Food Trucks 🛏️ 38 Hotels, Bed & Breakfasts, and Airbnbs ✨ and a whole bunch more! Scroll to the bottom for my favorites of the year!
Curated by Katie Howerton
353 Places • 24 Saves • ago
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* * *
CURATED BY
Katie Howerton
📍 Tennessee Here to create meaningful and affordable travel experiences for millennials and families who love food, art, and culture. Planning a Disney vacation? Follow me at [@souvenear.wdw](https://share.thatch.co/qzQw).
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Essential San Diego Eateries & Where to Find Them
Katie Howerton
Finding a place to grab coffee, eat lunch, or enjoy a nice dinner while traveling is hard enough as is, but when you’re in a big city, the options are truly overwhelming. While my guides are full of one-of-a-kind restaurants for certain neighborhoods, this Essential Eateries map includes the top few San Diego-specific chains that will help you eat like a local on the go. Not only that, but I include a backstory of each chain, my top menu suggestion, and what I consider to be the best location to visit. This guide can also serve as a “What NOT to Eat” if you’re the kind of person who only wants to try single-location restaurants and want to determine if the place you’re interested in dining is a chain. Just pull up this map when you’re out and about to see where the nearest spots are when your tummy starts rumbling! Get access to ALL the San Diego area locations of 9 regional chains, including: ☕️ 2 Coffee Shops 🥐 1 Bakery 🥡 5 Fast-Casual Restaurants 🍦 1 Dessert Spot Worried this info is out-of-date? Fear not! I'll be updating this guide every six months for accuracy, as well as to add new favorites I find along the way.
81 Places • 8 Saves • ago
Free

Coffee

Better Buzz Coffee Roasters

Better Buzz began in 2002 and has taken over the San Diego coffee scene with their great beverages and fun environments.

What to Order

The Best Drink Ever® + an OG Acai Bowl

My Favorite Location

There are FOUR locations in Pacific Beach right near the ocean as well as SeaWorld.

Better Buzz Coffee Roasters
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Better Buzz Coffee Miramar
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Better Buzz Coffee Roasters Pacific Beach West
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Better Buzz Coffee La Jolla
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Details
Better Buzz Coffee Drive-Thru
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Details
Better Buzz Coffee Point Loma
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Better Buzz Coffee Roasters
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Better Buzz Coffee Escondido
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Better Buzz Coffee: Pacific Beach
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Better Buzz Coffee Roasters
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Better Buzz Coffee Roasters
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Better Buzz Coffee Roasters
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Dark Horse Coffee Roasters

Dark Horse started serving the San Diego community in 2013 and now has locations in Orange County and Kauai.

What to Order

The Champ

My Favorite Location

The Chula Vista location is near the water.

Dark Horse Coffee Roasters
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from 7x7, 6 locations
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Dark Horse Coffee Roasters
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from 7x7, 6 locations
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Dark Horse Coffee Roasters
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from 7x7, 6 locations
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Dark Horse Coffee Roasters.
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from 7x7, 6 locations
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Dark Horse Coffee Roasters
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from 7x7, 6 locations
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Dark Horse Coffee Roasters
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from 7x7, 6 locations
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Bakeries

Paris Baguette

Paris Baguette was founded by a South Korean family in 1988 with a mission to serve high quality pastries in a neighborhood environment. While they operate over 3,600 stores in South Korea, the US only has about 100 locations; you can find others on the East Coast, too.

What to Order

Literally anything, it's so good

My Favorite Location

The Mira Mesa Boulevard location is near Lake Miramar.

Paris Baguette
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Ace Hotel, small intl chain.
Add to
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Paris Baguette
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Ace Hotel, small intl chain.
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Paris Baguette
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Ace Hotel, small intl chain.
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2588 El Camino Real
@katie.howerton
Paris Baguette - Suggestion from Ace Hotel, small intl chain.
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Fast-Casual Dining

Luna Grill

Luna Grill first opened in 2004 in San Diego with one purpose: to inspire good food choices. You can now find more than fifty of their Mediterranean kitchens throughout California and Texas.

What to Order

Loaded Fries, a Santorini Bowl, + Baklava

My Favorite Location

The Fenton Parkway location is near the Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala.

Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
Add to
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill - Rancho San Diego
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
Add to
Details
Luna Grill
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 50+ CA/TX locations.
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Details

Pick Up Stix Fresh Asian Flavors

Pick Up Stix was started by a Chinese immigrant in Rancho Santa Margarita in 1989 and now boasts more than 50 locations throughout California.

What to Order

The House Special Chicken + Cream Cheese Wontons

My Favorite Location

The Carlsbad location is right on the water and near LEGOLAND.

Pick Up Stix Fresh Asian Flavors
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 70+ locations.
Add to
Details
Pick Up Stix Fresh Asian Flavors
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 70+ locations.
Add to
Details
Pick Up Stix Fresh Asian Flavors
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 70+ locations.
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Pick Up Stix Fresh Asian Flavors
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 70+ locations.
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Pick Up Stix Fresh Asian Flavors
@katie.howerton
Add to
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Pick Up Stix Fresh Asian Flavors
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 70+ locations.
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Pick Up Stix Fresh Asian Flavors
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 70+ locations.
Add to
Details
Pick Up Stix Fresh Asian Flavors
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 70+ locations.
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Details

Robeks

Robeks was founded in 1996 in SoCal with a mission to serve customers all their vitamins in one serving through smoothies, and now they've got 83 locations throughout the US.

What to Order

The Tropi-Kale or Hummingbird

My Favorite Location

The Bernardo Center Drive location isn’t far from the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

Robeks Fresh Juices & Smoothies
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 80+ US locations
Add to
Details
Robeks Fresh Juices & Smoothies
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 80+ US locations
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Details
Robeks Fresh Juices & Smoothies
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 80+ US locations
Add to
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Robeks Fresh Juices & Smoothies
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 80+ US locations
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Robeks Fresh Juices & Smoothies
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 80+ US locations
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Robeks Fresh Juices & Smoothies
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 80+ US locations
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Robeks Fresh Juices & Smoothies
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 80+ US locations
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Robeks Fresh Juices & Smoothies
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thrillist, 80+ US locations
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The Taco Stand

The Taco Stand opened its first location in San Diego in 2013 and has had their fame spread to Miami, Las Vegas, and Orange County.

What to Order

Anything with their 100% Angus Beef Carne Asada Taco

My Favorite Location

The Upas Street and B Street locations are right outside Balboa Park, where the San Diego Air & Space Museum and San Diego Zoo are.

The Taco Stand
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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The Taco Stand
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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The Taco Stand
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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The Taco Stand
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch, 8 locations
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The Taco Stand
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Thatch. Small chain.
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Tender Greens

The first Tender Greens location opened in 2006 in Culver City and now operates 28 restaurants, each with their own executive chef.

What to Order

Anything with Steak (medium rare) + The Greens drink

My Favorite Location

The Historic Decatur Road location is right by the San Diego Airport for a quick meal before leaving town.

Tender Greens
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 25+ CA locations.
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Tender Greens
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 25+ CA locations.
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Tender Greens
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 25+ CA locations.
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Tender Greens
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 25+ CA locations.
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Tender Greens
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Wanderlog, 25+ CA locations.
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Table Service Dining

Filippi’s Pizza Grotta

*Information coming soon*

Filippi's Pizza Grotto Escondido
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Madeleine Lewis, 15 locations
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Filippi's Pizza Grotto Poway
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Madeleine Lewis, 15 locations
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Filippis Pizza Grotto Pacific Beach
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Madeleine Lewis, 15 locations
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Filippi's Pizza Grotto Mission Valley
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Madeleine Lewis, 15 locations
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Filippi's Pizza Grotto Santee
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Madeleine Lewis, 15 locations
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Filippi's Pizza Grotto Kearny Mesa
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Madeleine Lewis, 15 locations
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Filippi's Pizza Grotto Imperial Beach
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Madeleine Lewis, 15 locations
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Filippi's Pizza Grotto Jamul
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Madeleine Lewis, 15 locations
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Filippi's Pizza Grotto Chula Vista
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Madeleine Lewis, 15 locations
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Filippi's Pizza Grotto Scripps Ranch
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Madeleine Lewis, 15 locations
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Filippi's Pizza Grotto Little Italy
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Madeleine Lewis, 15 locations
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Filippi's Pizza Grotto Italian Market
@katie.howerton
Suggestion from Madeleine Lewis, 15 locations
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Dessert

Sprinkles Cupcakes

Sprinkles' first cupcake shop opened in Beverly Hills in 2005, and over two dozen locations later, they are known for their iconic Cupcake ATMs and have also expanded into the ice cream scene.

What to Order

A Red Velvet Cupcake or seasonal offering

My Favorite Location

The La Jolla locations are near the beach.

Sprinkles La Jolla
@katie.howerton
LOVE! Small US chain.
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Sprinkles UTC ARM
@katie.howerton
LOVE! Small US chain.
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Sprinkles Westfield UTC ATM
@katie.howerton
LOVE! Small US chain.
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Sprinkles Westfield Plaza Bonita ATM
@katie.howerton
LOVE! Small US chain.
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Hungry for more dining suggestions?

More Essential Eateries Guides

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Essential Los Angeles Eateries & Where to Find Them
Finding a place to grab coffee, eat lunch, or enjoy a nice dinner while traveling is hard enough as is, but when you’re in a big city, the options are truly overwhelming. While my guides are full of one-of-a-kind restaurants for certain neighborhoods, this Essential Eateries map includes the top few LA-specific chains that will help you eat like a local on the go. Not only that, but I include a backstory of each chain, my top menu suggestion, and what I consider to be the best location to visit. This guide can also serve as a “What NOT to Eat” if you’re the kind of person who only wants to try single-location restaurants and want to determine if the place you’re interested in dining is a chain. Just pull up this map when you’re out and about to see where the nearest spots are when your tummy starts rumbling! Get access to ALL the Los Angeles area locations of 34 regional chains, including: ☕️ 7 Coffee/Tea/Boba Shops 🥐 2 Bakeries 🥡 15 Fast-Casual Restaurants 🍽️ 5 Table Service Restaurants 🍦 5 Dessert Spots Worried this info is out-of-date? Fear not! I'll be updating this guide every six months for accuracy, as well as to add new favorites I find along the way.
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Essential Orange County Eateries & Where to Find Them
Finding a place to grab coffee, eat lunch, or enjoy a nice dinner while traveling is hard enough as is, but when you’re in a big city, the options are truly overwhelming. While my guides are full of one-of-a-kind restaurants for certain neighborhoods, this Essential Eateries map includes the top few Orange County-specific chains that will help you eat like a local on the go. Not only that, but I include a backstory of each chain, my top menu suggestion, and what I consider to be the best location to visit. This guide can also serve as a “What NOT to Eat” if you’re the kind of person who only wants to try single-location restaurants and want to determine if the place you’re interested in dining is a chain. Just pull up this map when you’re out and about to see where the nearest spots are when your tummy starts rumbling! Get access to ALL the OC locations of 12 regional chains, including: ☕️ 1 Coffee Shop 🥐 1 Bakery 🥡 7 Fast-Casual Restaurants 🍽️ 2 Table Service Restaurants 🍦 1 Dessert Spot
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Essential Boston Eateries & Where to Find Them
Finding a place to grab coffee, eat lunch, or enjoy a nice dinner while traveling is hard enough as is, but when you’re in a big city, the options are truly overwhelming. While my guides are full of one-of-a-kind restaurants for certain neighborhoods, this Essential Eateries map includes the top few Boston-specific chains that will help you eat like a local on the go. Not only that, but I include a backstory of each chain, my top menu suggestion, and what I consider to be the best location to visit. This guide can also serve as a “What NOT to Eat” if you’re the kind of person who only wants to try single-location restaurants and want to determine if the place you’re interested in dining is a chain. Just pull up this map when you’re out and about to see where the nearest spots are when your tummy starts rumbling! Get access to ALL the Boston area locations of 14 regional chains, including: ☕️ 2 Coffee Shops 🥐 5 Bakeries 🥡 5 Fast-Casual Restaurants 🍽️ 1 Table Service Restaurant 🍦 1 Dessert Spot Worried this info is out-of-date? Fear not! I'll be updating this guide every six months for accuracy, as well as to add new favorites I find along the way.
Curated by Katie Howerton
122 Places • 2 Saves • ago
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Check out my other travel content, too!

Free
2022 Travel Journal
2022 was the year of a lot of travel redemption for most of us, but it was also the year I had to turn down trips to Portugal, Spain, and Paris, as well as have a trip to New Orleans cancelled due to Covid. But thankfully that didn’t stop me from a spring road trip to Texas, a few summer days in DC, two trips to Disney World, and lots of Tennessee day trips in between. Enjoy this travel journal of 350 (!!!) places, including: 🖼️ 42 Museums, Gardens, and Attractions ☕️ 50 Coffee Shops 🍽️ 99 Restaurants, Bakeries, and Food Trucks 🛏️ 38 Hotels, Bed & Breakfasts, and Airbnbs ✨ and a whole bunch more! Scroll to the bottom for my favorites of the year!
Curated by Katie Howerton
353 Places • 24 Saves • ago
Details
* * *
CURATED BY
Katie Howerton
📍 Tennessee Here to create meaningful and affordable travel experiences for millennials and families who love food, art, and culture. Planning a Disney vacation? Follow me at [@souvenear.wdw](https://share.thatch.co/qzQw).
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