03 Jan 2025

10 New Restaurants That Made Waves in San Diego in 2024

By ebeery

Whether you are a foodie, love to try new restaurants, or just like to keep up with what’s new and hot in the San Diego area, there are some new restaurants you should know about in San Diego that really made waves in 2024. Our city has always been home to some pretty amazing places to dine, and these new restaurants in San Diego are among the best. From fresh sushi at Ichifuji to showstopping ribeyes at 31ThirtyOne, these are some of the best new restaurants San Diego has to offer that are getting rave reviews, along with a few of the specialties they have to offer for lunch, dinner, and beyond. You'll definitely want to add these new restaurants in San Diego to your list of places to visit during your stay at The Dana on Mission Bay!

The Beverly Beach Garden (2.2 Miles to Hotel)

The Beverly Beach Garden has completely reimagined the iconic Pacific Beach spot, El Prez, into a three-story coastal paradise. With a Tulum-inspired design featuring lush greenery, fire pits, and sweeping ocean views, the ambiance sets the stage for a memorable experience. Chef Lizzie Lopez has created a menu full of inventive dishes like Birria Dumplings with Morita chili oil, Swordfish Tiradito with kimchi aioli, and Sugar-Spiced Salmon with mascarpone mashed potatoes.

Hideaway Pacific Beach (2.2 Miles to Hotel)

(Photo: @hideawaypacificbeach)

Hideaway Pacific Beach offers a stylish, bungalow-themed escape just steps from the ocean. With midcentury modern decor and a laid-back beach vibe, the restaurant evokes the spirit of local surf culture. Guests can enjoy crafted American classics like Lobster Mac & Cheese or Pizza from a wood-burning oven, all while sipping on refreshing SoCal cocktails. The vibrant space features multiple curated rooms and patios, perfect for relaxing or socializing.

Postino Little Italy (5.5 Miles to Hotel)

(Photo: @postinowinecafe)

Postino Wine Café has brought its vibrant atmosphere to Little Italy, offering a perfect blend of delicious bites and an impressive wine selection. With a cozy, modern vibe, it's an ideal spot for enjoying shareable plates, including bruschetta, paninis, and hearty salads. The café also offers a range of wines by the glass, perfect for pairing with a light meal. Whether you're relaxing with friends or grabbing a quick bite, Postino provides a welcoming environment for any occasion.

Cellar Hand (6.5 Miles to Hotel)

Known for its original location along California’s Central Coast, the ever-popular restaurant Pali Wine Co. has now opened one of the best new restaurants in San Diego called Cellar Hand. The family-owned winery now offers its first full-service restaurant with a fantastic menu by Chef Logan Kendall. In addition to the amazing wine list they offer, Cellar Hand has a menu that takes advantage of local produce from the farmers' market and fresh seafood from local fishermen. Dinner options include Artichoke Raviolo and Serrano Ham Croquettes, as well as a variety of other interesting and unique dishes. They open at 4 pm each day except for Sunday, when you can join them for a boozy brunch featuring French toast and mimosas at 10 am.

LEILA (7.7 Miles to Hotel)

Step into Leila in North Park and be transported to a dreamy, starry night. Tucked away on 30th Street, this Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant immerses you in a magical atmosphere with twinkling overhead lights, lush trees adorned with Moroccan lanterns, and the calming sound of a waterfall cascading beside the main dining area. Paired with its rich, aromatic dishes and thoughtfully crafted drinks, Leila offers an unforgettable escape right in the heart of San Diego.

31ThirtyOne by Deckman’s (7.8 Miles to Hotel)

Brought to you by Baja Michelin Star recipient restaurant owner Drew Deckman, 31ThirtyOne brings yet another unique fine dining experience to you at this new San Diego location. Chef Deckman offers a four-course set menu that combines his zero-waste practices and sustainable sourcing for cuisine that includes incredible ribeye steaks as well as scrumptious whole fish dishes. The new restaurant in San Diego also features unique setting options and interesting ambiances for dinner including the chef’s counter tasting menu and the rooftop bar for oysters and other delights.

Ichifuji (7.9 Miles to Hotel)

(Photo: @itskevinsunday)

If an intimate dining experience is your thing, Ichifuji will quickly put you in the mood for authentic and traditional Japanese cuisine in their sleek new SoCal location. One of the popular new restaurants in San Diego everyone is talking about, Ichifuji San Diego is the culinary culmination of the owners of Michelin-starred Soichi Sushi as well as San Diego’s popular Taka Sushi. Featuring just two seatings per night with only 10 seats, Ichifuji offers an eight-course omakase menu and you can bet that reservations are in high demand!

Bica (8.4 Miles to Hotel)

(Photo: @bica_sd)
Bica is definitely the place to go for breakfast and lunch (or an early dinner) in San Diego. Continuously praised as one of the most popular new restaurants in San Diego, Bica has two talented local chefs operating this casual daytime café. You have to get there early because they close at 4 pm, but the ever-changing seasonal menu is to die for. Choose from unique specialties like locally baked sourdough bread topped with ricotta and fruit preserves, delicious sandwiches with house-made porchetta, or scrambled eggs with salmon roe. Grab a spot on the popular Adams Avenue patio for a great meal with a fun vibe at one of the best new restaurants San Diego has to offer.

Trattoria da Sofia (9.4 Miles to Hotel)

(Photo: @trattoria.da.sofia)

Trattoria da Sofia on Adams Avenue brings the heart of Sicily to the neighborhood of Kensington with its charming atmosphere and daily-made fresh pasta. The cozy interior makes you feel like you're dining in an Italian villa, complete with an exceptional wine list and delectable dishes like local seafood and shareable plates. The tableside tiramisu is a showstopper, and the restaurant's warm, inviting vibe makes it perfect for a dinner party atmosphere.

Le Coq (10.4 Miles to Hotel)

(Photo: @lecoq.sd)
This modern French steakhouse is getting rave reviews, and it’s not surprising because animae chef Tara Monsod, a James Beard Award finalist, is in charge of the kitchen at this 7,500-square-foot restaurant in La Jolla. Enjoy your favorite French cuisine along with a variety of modern dishes that incorporate Parisian gastronomy with delicious Asian flavors for an unexpected culinary delight! From the Caviar Butter to the Australian Wagyu New York, enjoy fine dining at Le Coq if you’re looking to try one of the best new restaurants in San Diego near The Dana on Mission Bay.

Are You Ready to Try Some of the Amazing New Restaurants in San Diego?

Plan a foodie weekend in San Diego you won’t soon forget in 2025 here at The Dana on Mission Bay. Conveniently located near all the best restaurants in San Diego, The Dana offers Water’s Edge suites and junior suites that are perfect for families, extended stays, and romantic escapes with beautiful views of Mission Bay and Sunset Park. We also have Marina Cove rooms and suites situated near the marina with lush, tropical landscaping. Our king or two queen bed rooms are perfect for those looking for a great value and seclusion, making them a great choice for family vacations, solo trips, and romantic getaways.

Book your accommodations here at The Dana today with one of our amazing hotel package deals, and get ready for a fabulous foodie adventure experiencing all the delicious and unique restaurants in San Diego, including our very own Firefly Eatery & Bar!

01 Sep 2023

San Diego’s Best Seasonal Souvenir Snaps

By builtbygcommerce

San Diego is a beautiful place to visit at all times of the year, but there’s something extra-special about the yuletide season. The nights are longer, the weather is milder, and everyone you meet is filled with even more good cheer than usual. Even though we’re not surrounded by snow, there are still plenty of ways to capture the holiday spirit here in town. Check out our list of the most festive San Diego holiday photo ops to look forward to this season.

Holiday Lights Displays

(Photo: @sandiegoholidaylights)
Jack Frost may not be nipping at your nose here in Southern California, but that doesn’t mean we don’t know how to decorate for the holidays! There are countless locations all across town where you can snap festive displays of seasonal cheer. From downtown to east county, theme parks to green spaces, up the coast to down the bay, there’s no end of spots to get merry and bright. Here are some of the most popular.

Seasonal Speakeasy Stops

(Photo: @falseidoltiki)
San Diego’s surreptitious sipping spots are a blast to visit whenever you find yourself in town, but the holidays are a particularly good time to hunt them down. Not only are many offering special seasonal drink menus, but their already photogenic environments are decked out in festive finery that makes for even sweeter snaps. Not sure where to start? Check out this list of area pubs with a penchant for getting festive at the holidays.

Ice Skating Rinks

(Photo: @laurenashleymedia)
Although beautiful beaches and warm sunshine may be the first images that spring to mind when you think about San Diego, our fair city has a surprisingly active ice skating scene during the holiday season. So if you’re interested in taking some skating snaps surrounded by palm trees (for a uniquely tropical holiday IG shot your East Coast followers won’t have), head out to the rinks at Skating by the Sea in Coronado, Viejas Casino, Poway Community Park, San Diego Ice Arena, or the Ice Rink at Rady Children’s Hospital.

Belmont Park (1.1 Miles)

(Photo: @belmontparksd)
San Diego’s favorite boardwalk theme park always goes all-out with holiday cheer. Every holiday, Belmont is filled with activities, midway games, and other fun distractions that can easily fill a day’s worth of sun-filled fun. Don’t miss the tiki mini-golf, climbing wall, roller coasters, or sky ropes course! Of course, the extra festive décor during the holidays always makes for some family-friendly photos. Surfin’ Santa always comes by for photos, and the carousel will be decked out in festive finery. So stop in, have fun, and grab some shots! And speaking of shots, if your seasonal plans include a little holiday spirit of the distilled variety, be sure to stop by the nearby Beach House Tequila + Taqueria for a little sippable warmth.
Belmont Park: B3146 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
Beach House Tequila + Taqueria: 3125 Ocean Front Walk, San Diego, CA 92109

Liberty Station (3.9 Miles)

(Photo: @libertystation)
Liberty Station is a place where locals and visitors can convene to meet, shop, dine, and enjoy entertainment. It’s really a “town square” of sorts for the city, drawing millions of visitors every year. And it truly comes alive during the holidays. Liberty Station’s “Salute the Season” celebration offers visitors a wide range of events and occasions where they can mix and mingle and grab some yuletide snapshots — including the annual tree lighting, arrival of Santa, menorah ceremony, and much more.
2820 Historic Decatur Rd. San Diego, CA 92106

Seaport Village (7.2 Miles)

(Photo: @seaport_village)
The oceanfront enclave of Seaport Village has everything you need for your holidays, with special events, gifts, the much-anticipated return of Surfin’ Santa, and more. Visitors always enjoy crossing names off of their holiday shopping lists as they stroll the Village’s sunny, open-air thoroughfares. Specialty shops offer seasonal items ideally-suited for home décor and gifts. Plus, Seaport Village is a great place to sit with a meal or beverage, and check out the Mission Bay Parade of Lights!
849 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101

Greetings From San Diego” Mural (8.3 Miles)

(Photo: @d.c._realestate)
This incredibly photogenic backdrop in North Park quickly became just as much of a San Diego landmark as LA’s hillside “Hollywood” sign or the famous “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign in Sin City. There’s just no better spot to snap a “wish you were here” pic than right here. And after you grab your shot, there’s plenty to do in the area, too — starting with stopping in at next door’s Belching Beaver Brewery for a few pints of local holiday cheer.
4225 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104

Ellen Browning Scripps Memorial Pier (10.7 Miles)

(Photo: @thescrippspier)
You simply can’t leave town without securing a pic at one of the most iconic spots in San Diego: just beneath Scripps Pier. This famous landmark has been one of the city’s most popular photo settings for years, featured on postcards, holiday cards, in engagement and wedding photos, and countless other stunning snaps. If you’d like to grab a few for yourself, the short drive to charming nearby La Jolla is worth the trip.
8650 Kennel Way, La Jolla, CA

Torrey Pines Reserve (18 Miles)

Torrey Pines State Reserve, San Diego
Torrey Pines Reserve is one of San Diego’s most visually stunning outdoor spaces. Ancient sandstone features sweep elegantly across the terrain here, adjacent to truly spectacular views of the Pacific. If hiking’s your thing, While here, don’t miss getting a shot of the most notable feature of this striking area — the reserve is one of the only places on Earth where you can see the Torrey Pine, one of the rarest trees in existence.
12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037

Start Your Seasonal Snaps Tour at the Dana

(Photo: @danamissionbay)
Ready to plan your seasonal sojourn to sunny San Diego? The Dana on Mission Bay is the perfect way to stay! We’re not only centrally located right on beautiful Mission Bay, but we’ve also got exceptional accommodations, thoughtful amenities, festive décor, and exclusive offers sure to fill you with good cheer. Reserve your holiday getaway today!

01 Apr 2023

10 Things To Do in San Diego This Spring

By builtbygcommerce

Although there’s never a bad time to visit “America’s Finest City,” San Diego truly comes alive in spring. The sun is warm, the flowers are blooming, and there’s no end of amazing things to do. If you’re planning a springtime visit and need some suggestions for an inspiring itinerary, here are some of the best ways to enjoy San Diego in springtime.

1. Nxpt Free Fitness Series (Various Locations)

(Photo: @discovermissionbay)
Southern California has always had a focus on fun and fitness, and that’s never more evident than in the spring. Our friends at NXPT Fitness have once again collaborated with Discover Mission Bay to offer a series of 100% free outdoor group fitness programs all over our home of Mission Bay. Each focuses on enjoying the weather, meeting like-minded people and pursuing your health goals together. Whether you’re a runner, cross-trainer, cyclist or swimmer, there’s an event for you. In fact, The Dana will be hosting a free Yoga event on April 8th as part of the series.

2.) Firefly Eatery & Bar Easter Brunch and Egg Hunt (on-site)

(Photo: @danamissionbay)
There’s no more fun springtime activity than enjoying a leisurely (and delicious!) brunch, then turning the kids loose to hunt for secret pastel treasures. Join us on Easter Sunday at our excellent on-property restaurant for a hot, fresh, and chef-prepared mid-morning meal (featuring fresh fruit, fluffy pancakes, bacon, sausage, omelet station and all the trimmings). And be sure to bring the whole family! Kids will be welcome to hunt eggs in our Tropical Garden after they’ve enjoyed their fill.

3.) Adventure Water Sports (Just Steps Away!)

(Photo: @adventurewatersportssd)
Aquatic adventures aren’t far away thanks to our good friends at Adventure Water Sports! Their fleet features easy-to-operate watercraft rentals like twin-engine waterskiing boats, waverunners, pontoon boats perfect for leisurely cruising, and other multi-passenger craft ideal for fun and exploration. The best part? They’re right here at The Dana, so you never have to go far to find a fun-filled day on the waters of the bay.
1710 W Mission Bay Dr, San Diego, CA 92109

4.) Seaworld Seven Seas Craft Beer & Food Festival (1 Mile)

(Photo: @lifetimememories_monse_ibarra)
One of the year’s most anticipated events returns to San Diego. The Seven Seas Craft Beer & Food Festival is a two-month long celebration featuring lots of local craft brews, live entertainment, in-park events, and (of course) no end of incredible global flavors, all prepared fresh by some of San Diego’s most skilled culinary experts. The best part: it all happens at SeaWorld, one of the city’s best attractions from now through April 30th.
500 SeaWorld Dr, San Diego, CA 92109

5.) Belmont Park (1.1 Miles)

(Photo: @belmontparksd)
Looking for a classically Southern California day out? You’ll find much to love at Belmont Park. This timeless boardwalk-style waterfront rides-and-games destination is located in picturesque Mission Beach, and features fantastic attractions like the Giant Dipper roller coaster, mini-golf, rock climbing, classic oceanside dining, and more. Plus, Belmont is right on the beach, which is always a great way to spend a spring day around here. And when the sun sets, you shouldn’t miss your chance to stop in for dinner and drinks at Beach House, an excellent eatery right nearby.
3146 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109

6.) Mission Bay Beach Club (4.3 Miles)

(Photo: @missionbaybeachclub)
Mission Bay’s newest gathering spot is the place to be for fun, events, and a great day at the beach. Start your day with a caffeine kick or fresh-squeezed juice at Superbloom coffee and juice bar. Enjoy a beachfront Yoga session, floral arrangement class, “Mommy & Me” high tea service this Mother’s Day weekend, or lunch with friends. Then head out to the lawn for a game of bocce, grab a fresh ice cream, or just drink in panoramic ocean views from the beach.
2688 East Mission Bay Dr, San Diego, CA 92109

7.) Uncorked San Diego Wine Fest (4.4 Miles)

(Photo: @uncorked_san_diego)
Pop (like a cork!) down to Spanish Landing Park on April 8 to take part in Uncorked’s San Diego Wine Fest. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to indulge in over 150 vintages from across the world — along with impeccably crafted ciders, seltzers, and specialty cocktails. If you ask us, springtime just doesn’t get any better than delicious beverages, local food trucks, live entertainment, and some stunning views. So don’t miss this amazing event!
3900 North Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101

8.) Whale Watching (4.5 Miles)

Thanks to our location adjacent to the seasonal migration route of several whale species, San Diego is one of the most specimen-rich locations in the world when it comes to spotting these majestic creatures in the wild. This means seeing them while they make their way past us is a near-certainty. Several local tour companies offer nautical treks that can get you close enough to spot these amazing animals. We recommend contacting our friends at Next Level Sailing, who offer trips on the yacht America that can get you close.
2050 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92106

9.) San Diego Padres at Petco Park (8.4 Miles)

Sports fans are in luck when visiting us here. Our own hometown heroes the San Diego Padres have been bringing big-time baseball to the city for more than 50 years. The Padres’ home of Petco Park is widely recognized as one of the finest stadiums in the league, too. So much so that it was recently named the league’s #1 park for 2022 by USA Today, who called it “the best stadium in baseball.” So grab a seat on a game day!
100 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101

10.) The Carlsbad Flower Fields (29.4 Miles Away)

The breathtaking Carlsbad Flower Fields draw tens of thousands of visitors to a beautiful super-bloom of giant Tecolote ranunculus flowers every year. Row after row of brilliant rainbow colors ripple across the landscape during the peak months in spring. When visiting, guests are treated to not just the brilliant botanical display, but also a wide range of family-friendly activities — such as antique tractor rides, fruit picking, and more.
5704 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Plan Your Springtime Stay at the Dana

There’s nothing quite like springtime on Mission Bay — and there’s no better spot to experience it than The Dana. Our exceptional accommodations, world-class service and guest-friendly amenities make us the ideal place to enjoy the season. We’ll have a full schedule of activities on our events calendar soon, so check back often for updates.
Take a look at our special offers, and plan your visit today!

10 New Restaurants That Made Waves in San Diego in 2024

The Beverly Beach Garden (2.2 Miles to Hotel)

Postino Little Italy (5.5 Miles to Hotel)

Cellar Hand (6.5 Miles to Hotel)

LEILA (7.7 Miles to Hotel)

31ThirtyOne by Deckman’s (7.8 Miles to Hotel)

Ichifuji (7.9 Miles to Hotel)

Bica (8.4 Miles to Hotel)

Trattoria da Sofia (9.4 Miles to Hotel)

Le Coq (10.4 Miles to Hotel)

Are You Ready to Try Some of the Amazing New Restaurants in San Diego?

San Diego’s Best Seasonal Souvenir Snaps

Holiday Lights Displays

Seasonal Speakeasy Stops

Ice Skating Rinks

Belmont Park (1.1 Miles)

Liberty Station (3.9 Miles)

Seaport Village (7.2 Miles)

Greetings From San Diego” Mural (8.3 Miles)

Ellen Browning Scripps Memorial Pier (10.7 Miles)

Torrey Pines Reserve (18 Miles)

Start Your Seasonal Snaps Tour at the Dana

10 Things To Do in San Diego This Spring

1. Nxpt Free Fitness Series (Various Locations)

2.) Firefly Eatery & Bar Easter Brunch and Egg Hunt (on-site)

3.) Adventure Water Sports (Just Steps Away!)

4.) Seaworld Seven Seas Craft Beer & Food Festival (1 Mile)

5.) Belmont Park (1.1 Miles)

6.) Mission Bay Beach Club (4.3 Miles)

7.) Uncorked San Diego Wine Fest (4.4 Miles)

8.) Whale Watching (4.5 Miles)

9.) San Diego Padres at Petco Park (8.4 Miles)

10.) The Carlsbad Flower Fields (29.4 Miles Away)

Plan Your Springtime Stay at the Dana

Wellness in Winter – Staying Active and Healthy in the New Year in San Diego

10 New Restaurants That Made Waves in San Diego in 2024

Festive Family Fun: Holiday Happenings in San Diego