Special Occasion Restaurants

Literally meaning “New Bridge,” Shimbashi Izakaya brings precision to its meaning by offering an elevated taste of classic Japanese cuisine. Located in Del Mar amongst eye-catching scenic views of the waterfront, Shimbashi Izakaya prides itself on being a casual place where one can easily unwind, similar to the Izakaya-style bars found in Tokyo, Japan. For those who enjoy fresh sushi and sashimi, Shimbashi Izakaya offers a multi-faceted selection that pairs perfectly with their fine array of sake. Shimbashi Izakaya also offers full lunch and dinner entrees that embody Japanese cuisine with a contemporary finesse.

Trattoria Ponte Vecchio is a culinary escape located in scenic Del Mar where diners can experience the flavors of Northern Italy in a cozy neighborhood setting. Born and raised in Milan, Italy, Chef Daniel Nobili infuses his passion for Italian cuisine in all of his creations including the Linguine Alle Vongole-- fresh Manila clams sautéed in a white wine or red sauce or the Vitello Del Tassista-- veal scaloppini in gorgonzola cheese sauce topped with fresh pears. The menu also includes an assortment of Appetizers, Salads, Pizzas, and Chicken Entrees. Your taste buds deserve a vacation— taste the delicious cuisine …

Downtown and thirsty for something a little stronger than water? Look no further than Taste & Thirst, a late night hub of wallet-friendly eats and drinks including a hearty array of appetizers, burgers, soups, sandwiches and salads. Enjoy the Truffle Fries made with truffle oil, tossed in parmesan cheese, chopped garlic, and parsley flakes, or the Marinated Sirloin Tips made with a half pound of their charbroiled signature sirloin tips served over rice pilaf and mixed veggies. With 14 High Definition television screens for your sports-viewing pleasure, spend game night at Taste & Thirst where there is plenty to entertain …

Whimsically whisking guests off to a sweet oasis of tasty times is Babycakes, in Hillcrest. This chic uptown eatery is located in a handsome craftsman-style home characteristic of the neighborhood’s charming architecture, and boasts a large front and back patio. Inside, visitors enjoy a home-away-from-home vibe complemented by antiques, cozy couches, the brick fireplace, and open-beamed ceilings. Sweet dreams meet saccharine-scented fantasies with Babycakes’ luscious dessert cocktails, cupcakes, pastries, and savory delights. Celebrate the weekend with a Babycakes brunch (the Red Velvet Hot Cakes are a hit) or meet up with friends for a proper Monday night nightcap: pair the …

San Diego sports fans and barbecue enthusiasts unite at Randy Jones All American Sports Grill! The Padres baseball legend has turned his sights from the field to the food, partnering with restaurateur Mark Oliver to bring guests a true sports bar and dining experience. Complementing their all-American cuisine menu is a staggering array of sports viewing options: 22 big screen TVs and a 14-foot high definition projection screen ensure that no game is left behind. And with 24 American beers on draft, we’re sure not to go thirsty either. From the finger-lickin’-good food to the top-notch viewing options, Randy Jones …

Hunting for a “little piece of Europe by the sea”, then look no further than Del Mar’s cozy restaurant wine bar, Crepes & Corks. Located along Camino Del Mar, this bistro stays open from early morning to night. The ambiance is that of romance and simplicity and be detected throughout their food and customer service. Crepes & Corks offers an extensive list of delightfully full bodied, smooth, and buttery wines. They also have dessert wines and beers and offer wine tastings! Crepes & Corks provides patrons with a little taste of Europe in the heart of this coastal town and …

Amidst a sea of Italian restaurants, Asti Ristorante in San Diego’s Gaslamp District is one that should not be overlooked. Specializing in Northern Italian cuisine, Asti does not disappoint. Whether you stop in for lunch or for dinner, Asti’s extensive selection of hand-made pastas, fresh seafood or traditional chicken, beef or veal entrees are sure to please even the pickiest diners. The restaurant offers outdoor seating overlooking the Gaslamp’s bustling 5th Avenue, as well as indoor dining in the restaurant’s meticulously decorated dining room. Asti Ristorante is one of the few restaurants in downtown San Diego that can please both …

Built in 1928, The Thursday Club is known for being one of San Diego’s beautiful and historical landmarks. This charming old Mission style house is located on the California coast with a panoramic ocean view. The grounds include an elegant garden path, which adds to the ambiance of any event. This venue features its own kitchen, stage area, private bride’s room, stained glass windows, and a grand piano. The Thursday Club provides a list of catering options that will complement any special occasion. If you are looking for a gorgeous location, The Thursday Club is the perfect place for your …

Since 1976, Armstrong Catering has been a San Diego institution. Providing top-notch, professional, and affordable services throughout the county, this family-owned company is dedicated to the cause of giving you the event of your dreams – maybe one better than you could imagine. Weddings turn magical, themed parties are unforgettable, and corporate events reflect impeccable taste under the expert eye of Armstrong Catering. They even offer their own historic facility that boasts grand architectural details, along with scenic surroundings and an outdoor patio to suit all your event-hosting needs.

Anthology is not only one of San Diego’s premier music venues, but it is also one of the city’s hot-spots for great dining and drinks. Some of the country’s finest Jazz, Rock, Blues, Latin, and Indie musicians grace the Anthology stage on a regular basis; and the restaurant’s farm-fresh fare is enjoyed on all three levels of the main room. This chic and contemporary space entertains many social outlets, and multitasks brilliantly: from the state-of-the-art system and unparalleled attention to acoustics, to the fresh and invigorating California cuisine menu, Anthology is the place to go for an experience that satisfies …

Heaven Sent Desserts in San Diego’s North Park district is legitimately a slice of heaven right here in California. It’s fresh in house made desserts are imaginative and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening for two, a group celebration, or just feel like curling up on one of their plush couches with a book, a slice of chocolate decadence or a fruity tart and some coffee, you are in store for a fabulous time. The staff is friendly and welcoming, as is the ambiance. Heaven Sent also caters and loves enhancing any celebration you may be having …

Known and loved by many as a charming restaurant and bakery, The French Gourmet also boasts impressive credentials as a full-service catering business. This San Diego favorite has been conjuring up decadent and flavorful delicacies from scratch in its kitchen, and then serving them to loyal patrons inside and out of the dining room since 1979. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner become casual yet decadent holidays at The French Gourmet, where fresh pastries, classic hors d’oeuvres, and house-made specialties mingle with award-winning wines. Set in an intimate space bathed in natural light during the day and a romantic glow in the …

Searching for an event venue that will transport you to a European Villa? Check out Darlington House tucked away in the heart of La Jolla. This combination French, Spanish, and Italian style villa hosts special events such as weddings, receptions, parties, and other private events. This beautiful venue provides catering and event planning services that will create a package directly tailored to your wants and needs. Darlington House possesses a certain old world elegance, grace, and romance that enhance any event occurring in the space.

Among one of the original locations, The Broken Yolk Café in Pacific Beach is a local favorite for San Diegans. Open since 1979, The Broken Yolk’s brand of home-cooked comfort food is famous for their generous portions. With over 20 omelets available and a casual atmosphere to boot, make sure you come around for lunch as well. Fans of the Broken Yolk rave about their burgers and sandwiches. It’s a great place to people watch, and the scenic view from their outdoor rooftop patio isn’t so bad either. The Broken Yolk Café is located along the coastal line, so if …

Always seem to be in a time crunch when it comes to preparing and eating a meal? Let Brio, a Personal Chef Service LLC, help you out! Kyle Marie Wesendorf, the owner and professionally trained chef of Brio, has an exceptional passion for nurturing people through food. Chef Wesendorf is a graduate of the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts and specializes in everyday gourmet as well as vegetarian and vegan dishes. Her menu spans a wide variety of culinary traditions and cuisines and her service is founded on professionalism, kindness, freshness, and creativity. Her company even offers gift certificates and …

Gluten-free, egg-free, or dairy-free? No problem! At Stephanie’s Bakery, Ocean Beach’s healthy baking epicenter, hungry guests can find a large assortment of cakes, pastries, cookies, and much more. Whether you have a food allergy, a dietary restriction, or are craving something new, Stephanie’s offers treats made fresh from scratch using only local and organic ingredients. Started as a cake company, Stephanie’s has expanded their menu, and now features new and unique items such as Spinach Herb and Cherry Cream Cheese Strudels, plus vegan sandwiches, salads and pizzas. They even make special wedding cakes! Enjoy a hot sandwich on their outside …

For a fresh take on authentic Mexican Food, Rancho’s features healthier alternatives with options for meat eaters, vegetarians, vegans, and those with food allergies. Located just a few blocks up from Ocean Beach, Rancho’s is a Mexican Natural Foods restaurant where any diet restriction can be met with ease. With meals priced between $4-$12, Rancho’s has something for everybody—including flavorful, large portioned dishes like Enchiladas Verdes and Seafood Chile Relleno. Any dish can be substituted for a vegan-friendly option, meaning everyone has a chance to indulge. They even serve breakfast all day, and patrons love their Shrimp and Mushroom Omelet …

The Studio Diner is a true local’s paradise; conveniently located in the Kearney Mesa Business District, this deliciously nostalgic eatery serves up heaping helpings of classic American fare with a gourmet twist 24-hours-a-day. Clad in chrome and gleaming with 1940s charm, film-making equipment graces the dining area and celebrates the restaurant’s ongoing relationship with television. The only thing that can steal the spotlight from the Diner’s cool décor is its impressively lengthy and satisfying menu. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner can be savored any time – from omelets to East Coast classics, the Diner aims to please. Menu favorites include the …

For a unique blend of Italian cuisine fused with the flavors of California, Cucina Urbana is a one-of-a-kind fine dining destination in the heart of Banker’s Hill. The interior is reminiscent of an old farm house and a modernized kitchen, with bold abstract paintings on the wall and rich accents of rustic wood. The cuisine is predominantly Italian, such as gourmet pizzas and handmade pastas, but the inspiration from California comes from the subtle flavors, the cooking style, and the stresses of using local and organic ingredients whenever possible. Cucina Urbana is also a Wine Shop-- and the possibilities of …

For a classic seafood experience with a laid-back attitude, look no further then The Fish Market—San Diego’s premiere destination for seafood. Located on Shelter Island below the Top of the Market Restaurant, The Fish Market features options for several types of seafood faire, including seafood cocktails, oysters, fresh filets, and sushi. You can dine while overlooking the breathtaking San Diego bay for either lunch or dinner. Since 1989, The Fish Market has been enchanting and comforting their guests with premium seafood choices and a dazzling waterfront view.