Dining in San Diego, Part 2

this is my job sometimes. 

In between pondering the philosophical dilemmas of life, being a student and working for the County,  I also attend food events and restaurant openings as a representative of DiningOut SD.  The experiences I have been able to have through the magazine as well as my own personal foodie explorations have led me to some great dining spots in San Diego. 

San Diego has quite the food scene and has something for everyone. I wanted to share a few of my current favorites and recent discoveries. More to come, I promise :)

For Coffee:

- Caffe Calabria: Coffee is a highly debated topic because there are so many great coffee shops and roasting companies in SD, but in my opinion. Caffe Calabria is the best of all.  Not only do they roast their own beans but just one sip of their cappuccino takes me back to Rome in a heartbeat. Also, from Tuesday to Sunday, their talented pizza maker Luca makes pizza in a 950 degree oven that completes my Italian flashbacks. The pizza is an exact replica of what I ate and loved in Italy. Caffe Calabria has stolen a piece of my heart. 

http://www.caffecalabria.com/

exterior view. 

perfect cappuccinos. 

any pizza here is phenominal. cooked to perfection in 2 short minutes. 

- Coffee Couture: Their lattes and cappuccinos are well worth the drive to Tierrasanta. The milk is frothed to perfection and paired with a strawberry muffin, make for an excellent afternoon. 

http://coffeec.oliverwebguy.com/

- Pappelecco: Not only do they have coffee here, but also the best gelato in town. It is handcrafted with lots of love in store and sure to satisfy, rain or shine. They also serve authentic Italian pastries and sandwiches. But you really can't come here without trying the Nutella Cake. It's really all you've ever dreamed about if you love Nutella. 

http://www.pappalecco.com/

For Sandwiches:

- Rubicon Deli: I am not a fan of generally going out to eat a sandwich. I can make a great sandwich at home, why pay for one? But there is something about Rubicon Deli that can't be replicated at home. First, they give you 8 choices of bread, the pesto one is my favorite. Second, their sandwiches are all unique and satisfying. My personal favorites are the Rich Boy and the Whale's Veg (with added portabella mushroom). Sooo good. The cranberry mustard also can't be missed. When I am not in the mood for a sandwich, the Superfood Salad always hits the spot. Third, they serve Badunkachunk cookies which are the best cookies in the world. The founder/owner of Badunkachunk is working on opening a store but till then, I can't stop by Rubicon and leave without a cookie in hand. 

http://therubicondeli.com/menu/

http://www.badunkachunk.com/

Whale's veg sandwich on freshly baked pesto bread.

THE cookies

- Con Pane: I come here strictly for the Turkey Cobb on multi grain. The best Turkey Cobb you will ever have. They throw in some sun dried tomatoes and brie cheese into the classic cobb and their freshly baked bread completes the sandwich. I have yet to meet someone who doesn't love their sandwiches. Plus their giant cinnamon rolls and chocolate bread will win over any hesitant diner. 

http://www.yelp.com/biz/con-pane-rustic-breads-and-cafe-san-diego

Turkey cobb with a warm chocolate roll.

For Sushi:

- Shino Sushi + Kappo: Go here, eat the "Kitchen Sink Roll," and leave happy. 

http://www.yelp.com/biz/shino-sushi-kappo-san-diego

front dish: seared duck, back dish: the Kitchen Sink Roll

For Dinner:

- Cucina Urbana: My favorite place in town. I have tried a lot off their menu and I love it all. I really can't thank the date who took me here enough. Seriously. Their homemade pastas, Mary's chicken, short rib pappardelle and grilled octopus are a constant reminder of just how great food can be. Make a reservation here, request Kevin to be your waiter, order anything off their menu, and will crave Cucina for the rest of your life. You have been warned. 

http://www.cucinaurbana.com/home

Mary's chicken. perfection.

in house made angel hair pasta with shrimp

short rib papperdelle. the flavors are incredible. 

- Brooklyn Girl: Maybe I am slightly biased because the first time I came here also happened to be my first every successful surprise birthday party, but I assure you the food was just as great as the party. I love the atmosphere and I love their pork chop even more. Plus, the pumpkin cheesecake didn't hurt either. If Cucina Urbana can't fit me into their overfilled reservation list, BG is just as good. 

the pork chop.

seared ahi tuna.

Brooklyn Girl induced happiness.

     Stay Hungry San Diego, I know I always am :)