Welcome to San Diego
Welcome to San Diego!
It is our pleasure to host you in our sunny, vibrant and welcoming city. If this is your first visit or a return trip, we hope you’ll find the time to explore the delicious food and stunning setting that make San Diego such a lovely place to call home.
San Diego is truly a destination like none other, and we’ve curated a few selections for dining, drinks, and local itineraries throughout the city and neighboring areas.
Dr. and Mrs. Alexander Khalessi
Local Host
Close to the Convention Center
Pair elevated views with memorable food and drinks at The Nolen Rooftop, or head to Top of the Hyatt for one of the highest vantage points in the city overlooking San Diego Bay. Seneca Trattoria combines Italian-inspired cuisine with sweeping views of the waterfront and downtown skyline.
San Diego has plenty of great restaurants that can easily accommodate large parties near the Convention Center. Enjoy fresh seafood at Water Grill, share creative Japanese-inspired dishes and cocktails at Cloak & Petal in Little Italy, or take advantage of the spacious indoor-outdoor setting at Nolita Hall. Puesto serves award-winning Mexican cuisine and inventive tacos in a welcoming atmosphere that’s ideal for groups. Those looking for a more casual setting can head to Ballast Point Brewing, where craft beer and waterfront views make it a popular choice for all ages.
Local Insider
These local favorites offer a taste of the city’s laid-back coastal culture. Grab a drink at Waterfront Bar, the city’s oldest tavern, or cocktails at Youngblood, one of San Diego’s most hyped speakeasy-style experiences.
For a casual meal, join locals in line at Tacos El Gordo for authentic Tijuana-style tacos or head to Mitch’s Seafood for fresh-caught seafood on the waterfront. If you’re looking for an elevated dining experience, enjoy skyline views at Mister A’s, a classic steakhouse dinner at Cowboy Star, or premium steaks at Born and Raised.
During the day, take advantage of San Diego’s coast with a visit to Swami’s Beach or Moonlight Beach in North County. When the sun goes down, keep the evening going with dueling pianos at The Shout! House, rooftop drinks and dining at Kettner Exchange, or an intimate cocktail experience at Kiku Room.
Family-Friendly
Diego offers plenty of opportunities for a memorable family experience. Grab a bite at The Crack Shack, a family-friendly favorite known for its creative chicken sandwiches and relaxed atmosphere. For a sit-down meal, enjoy waterfront dining at Malibu Farm or scenic coastal views at Monarch Ocean Pub.
Parents can unwind with a craft beer in a family-friendly setting at Viewpoint Brewing Company. During the day, explore world-famous attractions like the San Diego Zoo, or spend an afternoon at Fletcher Cove Beach in Solana Beach.
Be sure to save room for dessert with a stop at An’s Hatmakers for inventive ice cream flavors or Batch & Box Cookies for freshly baked sweet treats.
Ready for more?
Browse a fully interactive list of activities in San Diego, La Jolla and the surrounding areas, curated by Dr. and Mrs. Alex Khalessi and the UCSD Neurosurgery Department. Special thank you to Loren Walters.