Category Archives: Brunch San Diego

Isabel’s Cantina: Best Brunch in Pacific Beach

For those of you wondering where you can find the very best brunch in Pacific Beach, look no further: Isabel’s Cantina is where it’s at! After living in PB for quite awhile, I can easily say that this is my go-to SD brunch spot.

Isabel's Cantina Pacific Beach Brunch

Not only is the atmosphere just about perfect, but the the food is ALWAYS delicious. In fact, it somehow seems to get better and better each time! The service is always friendly and prompt and the vibe here is all around great.

Isabel Cruz, the chef and owner, is known for her love of food and unique mix of Asian and Latin influences into a simple, clean, and healthy cuisine.

Check out some of my favorite dishes:

Isabel's Cantina Pacific Beach Brunch

Isabel's Cantina Pacific Beach Brunch

Isabel's Cantina Pacific Beach Brunch

Isabel's Cantina Pacific Beach Brunch

Isabel’s Cantina is located at 966 Felspar Street San Diego, CA 92109.

Visit Isabel’s online by clicking HERE.

Can’t get enough?  Isabel also has several other restaurants in San Dieogo, including Barrio Star & Coffee Cup.

The Yellow Deli in Vista: Wednesday Farmers Market

Prior to visiting this unique restaurant, I’d heard a LOT of chatter about The Yellow Deli in Vista. And while people eluded to the religious connotations and the slightly different surroundings, the main thing that I heard remained that the food was incredible! So, both curious and hungry, I went to explore for myself.

     

I was beyond charmed at the visual aspects of the restaurant. What appears to be a large & cozy cottage was filled with raw wood, murals, comfy chairs, hidden nooks & crannies, plants and even a large spiral staircase. I observed that everyone who was working was dressed in an old-fashioned manner, the women very modestly (with longer skirts and tops) and the men all sporting long beards.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

For lunch, I decided to sample a bit of everything from the menu. Starting with a Cauliflower Soup of the Day, progressing to the colorful Chef Salad, and finishing up with the Turkey and Havarti Sandwich (served with house-made potato chips and a pickle). The food was as fresh as it gets, and I relished every last bite.

     

     

     

So, while I established that the restaurant was both beautifully furnished and served farm-fresh food, my curiosity wasn’t fully satiated. I mean, what’s with the dress? And what religion is practiced by the people working at this establishment? The murals on the wall hinted at dreams of love & togetherness, but what was it really all about? Looking to find some answers I did a bit of research.

     

     

It turns out the Yellow Deli was built by the Twelve Tribes, a Messianic community that lives together, works together, provides for one another, and love each other. To read the full history and beliefs of the Twelve Tribes, simply click here to visit their website and read all about it.   The Twelve Tribes have communities all over the world, from Brazil and Australia to Canada and Germany, and welcome anyone who is interested in sharing this life. The Morning Star Ranch, located nearby in Valley Center, is one of such communities and a large portion of the food served at the Yellow Deli was grown there.

     

Each Wednesday, a farmers market takes place at The Yellow Deli and you can buy fresh fruit and vegetables from the Morning Star Ranch, along with organic lotions and natural body care, amazing teas (yerba mate), and loads of other goodies.

                                                                  Take a Look:

     

     

              

     

             

     

Note that this restaurant is open 24 hours a day throughout the week but completely closed on the weekends, so plan your dining adventure accordingly!

                                                        Website: theyellowdeli.com

                                           Address: 315 E. Broadway, Vista, CA 92082

Location Tip: If Vista is a bit out of your way, you’ll be happy to know there is also a Yellow Deli located in Valley Center: 32011 Lilac Rd, Valley Center, CA 92082.

     

Brunch at the Grant Grill in the US Grant San Diego Hotel

I am always in search of a scrumptious brunch in San Diego, and the experience at the Grant Grill is one of the best that I’ve encountered lately! This elegant restaurant is located within the historic US Grant San Diego Hotel, a national icon since 1910. If you’re interested in learning more about this downtown San Diego landmark, click here to read the complete, rich history of the US Grant.

     

If, however, you’re just interested in the brunch experience (no shame in the game) then read on! The very first thing you notice when you step foot inside this stunning hotel is the….air conditioning! While this may seem like a given, this summer has been one of the hottest in many years in San Diego, and many restaurants simply aren’t equipped to deal with these kind of Florida-esque temperatures. The Grant Grill, however, is way ahead of the curve and delightfully cooling. Another plus? While many restaurants are cramped on the weekends, the Grant Grill offers an alternative: a spacious and non-hectic dining experience.

    

    

           

     

    

From the marble floors in the lobby to the timeless chandeliers, this place whispers of class and elegance, bringing you back to a time when ladies donned their finest silk and gentlemen were just that; gentlemen. So as you settle into your cream-colored booth, take a minute to enjoy the culture behind the history.

    

The brunch menu features classic California cuisine, focusing on fresh seafood from the Pacific, sustainable poultry and meats, and delicious herbs and produce.

    

   Shown Above & Below: Citrus Brioche French Toast, Orange Blossom Honey

    

    

      If you’re seeking out a decadent brunch, I highly recommend Grant Grill.

                                                   Address: 326 Broadway, 32101

                                                                           usgrant.net

Pacific Beach Brunch: JRDN at Tower23

    

If you’re looking to have brunch in Pacific Beach, I know just the spot! JRDN at Tower23 hotel has an unbeatable atmosphere, located right on the coast with a clear ocean view and ultra-modern design. The menu has many tantalizing brunch options, and the food is always great. Another bonus? You can go for a stroll right on the PB beach after brunch (something I personally LOVE to do).

    

          

                                                          “Mornin’ Sunshine”

    

                                 California Grass -Fed Skirt Steak & Eggs:

    

                                                  Chicken & Biscuits (my favorite):

    

   Dinnah Tip: The JRDN dinner menu is just as great as the brunch, try it out!

                        JRDN is located inside Tower 23 Hotel in Pacific Beach.

                                    Address: 723 Felspar St. San Diego, CA 92109

                                                                            jrdn.com

Groove 24/7 Brunch at The Pearl Hotel in Point Loma

     

If you’re looking for a casual, great place to have brunch in San Diego, I highly recommend The Pearl Hotel in Point Loma. This mid-century hotel not only serves an amazing brunch, but is also utterly unique and fun to explore, with an unmatched 1950′s atmosphere that is sure to lure you in with its cool vibes!

    

Every Sunday, The Pearl presents Groove 24/7 Brunch from 10am til 2pm, with poolside dining & an awesome DJ. If you live nearby (or just love exercise), I suggest coming the last Sunday of the month for the Bikes N Brunch event, where you get $10 off the brunch deal for biking to the The Pearl.

    

                           Shown Above: Lavender Lemonade & Iced Tea

    

                                                 Shown Above: Classic Breakfast

    

                     Shown Above: Hazelnut & Chocolate Stuffed French Toast

Unlike many other ritzy hotels, The Pearl has no problem with locals enjoying some swimming & tanning time in the hotel pool after (or instead of)  brunch. In fact,  this hotel even provides you with complimentary towels and a water hydration station. So, make sure to bring your suit when visiting this hot spot!

    

       

    

 Best way to sum it up: this place definitely has (awesomely retro) character! 

Mid-Century Tip: The Pearl is known for Dive-In Movie Nights, happening every Wednesday by the pool area. In addition, this hotel is also known for being a great place to socialize at night and throwing tons of fun special events.

     

The Pearl is located at 1410 Rosecrans Street. Visit them online for more info!

                                        “DOWN TO EARTH, UP WITH STYLE”

Afternoon Tea at The Grand Del Mar

     

There’s several incredible places to get a proper afternoon tea in the San Diego area, and of these, The Grand Del Mar is one of my favorites! First off, the grounds of this gorgeous resort are absolutely stunning. As you drive up the winding roads, surrounded by fields of green, you truly feel that you’re somewhere far, far away from the hustle and bustle of San Diego, though in actually it’s only mere minutes up the 5 North. While  the outdoor atmosphere is breathtaking, inside The Grand Del Mar you will find opulence of the finest variety. Marble everywhere, fine furniture and art galore, and the absolute coziest library ever awaits you within the resort. And while the surroundings are plush as can be, the tea service itself is divine: from the cute, little, finger sandwiches to the aromatic tea itself, this service leaves little else to be desired.

    

 ”There is a great deal of poetry and fine sentiment in a chest of tea.” Emerson

     

     

Tea Selection Includes: 

Black Tea: Earl Grey, English Breakfast, Bombay Chai

Green Tea: Jasmine Green

Herbal Tea: Chamomile Tisane, Citrus Mint, Ginger, Raspberry Nectar

White Tea: White Ambrosia

Afternoon Tea at The Grand Del Mar  is normally served in the library, see below, but can also be served on the balcony or by window-side if you so desire:

     

                                  Further Interior Photos at The Grand Del Mar:

     

     

     

After tea, I highly recommend a walk around the grounds to explore this resort.

                                                                     The Grounds:

     

     

     

                         Tea is served from Friday to Sunday from 2 to 4pm.

Call (858) 314 1988 to make reservations for your Afternoon Tea experience .

                            Visit The Grand Del Mar online by clicking here.

Spoil Yourself Tip: Southern California’s ONLY 5 Star/ 5 Diamond restaurant: Addison, can also be found at The Grand Del Mar. In addition, The Grand Del Mar is quite famous for their beautiful resort golf course and luxurious day spa.

Hillcrest Brunch: Snooze

   

Snooze is one of my favorite new brunch spots that I’ve tried lately within San Diego. The decor is incredibly cute (modern/retro with  high ceiling + retractable windows), the service was amazing, and the food SUPERB; what more could you ask for?  I’ve heard that the wait to dine at Snooze can be a bit long due to the popularity of the eatery, however I experienced no wait at all when I dined and was seated immediately, so don’t be put off by the rumors!

    

    

All of the cuisine at Snooze is prepared from scratch with love & the ingredients used are promised  natural, farm-raised, local when possible, and free-ranging.

                                           Now, for the feature presentation:

     

                                   Ham Benedict III and Chilaquiles Benedict

Treaty Tip: Snooze lets you mix and match any of the Benedict’s to experience more flavors, which is how I ended up withe the above (both AMAZING!)

    

                                                                 Sandwich I Am

    

                                                         Havana Daydreaming

 Snooze is located at 3940 5th Ave in Hillcrest. For further information & menu, feel free to visit their website by simply clicking here or call (619) 500 3344.

Humphreys Restaurant: Easter Brunch

As Easter rolled around this year, a serious decision had to be made. Where were we to have Easter brunch? I wanted somewhere further away from the hustle and bustle of downtown, somewhere with a great view and an excellent buffet. After some deliberation, I decided Humphreys was the perfect location for the event. The tropical setting makes you feel like you’re on vacation, while the spread has enough delicious items to keep you interested for hours. Perfect!

     

Prior to our brunch, we got a chance to walk around and explore a bit of the territory. Check out the gorgeous ponds, blooming flowers and  lush palms:

    

    

    

After roaming the grounds, we sat down for the main event. And then immediately stood back up to check out the Easter spread + fill up our plates.

Here’s some of the tasty selections that were offered  at Humphreys for brunch:

              

              

                                           My first plate ended up looking like this:

       

                                        My second trip to the buffet included:

      

Highlights of the brunch included the build-your-own omelet station, the build-your-own pasta station, and (of course) the unbelievable desserts presented:

    

    

Unlimited chocolate-covered strawberry supply? Oh man, right up my alley!

Don’t worry, you don’t have to wait until next Easter to enjoy the award-winning Humphreys brunch since it happens every Sunday from 10am til 2pm. Note that this is also an excellent location for both lunch and dinner, and also a concert spot.

Humphrey’s is located at 2241 Shelter Island Dr. in San Diego. Visit them online by clicking here or call (619) 224 3577 for reservations.

La Jolla Brunch: Mediterranean Room at La Valencia Hotel

Brunch is, by far, my favorite meal of any day! I am not by nature an early riser so I prefer to have my first meal a bit later than most. Due to this, it’s never easy to tell whether I will be craving a breakfast item or a lunch pick by the time I’m ready to dine. Which is why brunch is the best of both worlds! One of my favorite places to brunch is located in La Jolla, a lovely spot called The Mediterranean Room. This restaurant can be found within the charming La Valencia Hotel, a gorgeous pink villa setting that has been a La Jolla destination since it’s opening in the 1920′s. The incredible view upon the Ocean View Terrace inside La Valencia is just one of my reasons for loving this restaurant.

                                                        Check out the view:

As for dining, first things first! I always start off with a cup of tea or two, and the Mediterranean Room provides a wonderful variety of fresh scones to go with.

    

                                                         Now, for some Starters:

   

                  Jumbo Shrimp & Crab Claw Cocktail, Baja Cocktail Sauce

 

Apple + Hooks 10 Year Aged Cheddar Salad, Arugula, Bacon, Mustard Vin.  

    

      Scottish Smoked Salmon, Hardboiled Egg, Caper Aioli, Grilled Baguette

                                                       Followed by the Entree’s:

    

 Chilaquiles, Eggs, Corn Tortilla, Chilies, Queso Fresco, Braised Jidori Chicken

    

Monte Cristo, Smoked Turkey, Artisan Ham, Battered Swiss, Strawberry Jam

          For dessert, they have a wonderful buffet. Here’s what we picked up:

                                                       

                             Tiramisu                                                                     Key Lime Pie

In all, I highly recommend The Mediterranean Room as a brunch destination! The ambiance, combined with the incredible cuisine and stunning views, makes it a prime spot to start off your day. In addition, I love the quaintness, luxury and charm that the La Valencia hotel is legendary for.

La Valencia Hotel is located at 1132 Prospect Street in La Jolla. For further information, visit them online by clicking here or call (858) 454 0771.

Pacific Beach: Tuesday Farmers’ Market

    

Grocery shopping for green goodness in the sunshine, by the beach, as lovely people hand you samples of deliciousness from all sides? It doesn’t get much better than that! Except, it actually does. When you shop at a farmers’ market, you are able to get the freshest organic fruits & veggies from local sources while supporting a sustainable way of life. Why get tangerines and apples that have been grown 8 states over and shipped thousands of miles when you can hit up a Farmers Market to get some that were grown practically in your own backyard?

Yesterday, I got a chance to check out the PB Farmers’ Market and I was impressed with the quality of the goods. This market takes place between Garnet & Bayard St. every Tuesday from 2 to 6:30pm, rain or shine. If your looking for a local spot to get some  eats, check out the sustainable selection at this market.

                               Highlights from the Pacific Beach Farmers’ Market:

       

                                                               Fresh Wheatgrass

       

                                      Fresh Baby Carrots, Grown in Oceanside

      

                                          Selection of Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds

     

                                                             Bunch of Radishes

     

                                                Strawberries, Grown in Fallbrook

     

                                                                     Flowers Galore

     

                                           Selection of  Sprouts from Suzie’s Farm

     

                                                                   Cute Little Cacti

 There was so much good stuff that it was a bit hard to narrow down exactly what I wanted to take home with me! However (after much browsing) I was finally able to figure out what will end up on my table. Here are my finals food picks:

       

              Tangerines                        Baby Broccoli                               Baby Carrots

      

         Strawberries                   Country French Bread                      Spinach

       

  Muffin & Macaroons                   Brownie Bites             Orange Scone & Croissants

While I was at the PB Farmers’ Market, I was able to pick up a new copy of Edible San Diego (a unique & incredible magazine highlighting San Diego farmers and restaurants using locally grown produce). If you want to learn more about local & sustainable food, I highly recommend Edible San Diego as a source! Click here to visit them online.

To find out more information about the Tuesday Farmers’ Market in Pacific Beach and get a full list of vendors, visit the website by clicking here.