Phil's BBQ is an institution with mouth-watering barbecued meats worth waiting for. Meat falls off the bones and even onion rings carry the perfect ratio of crunch to flavor. It's Sports Arena location is void of views and character, barbecue devotees could care less about that or the potentially long lines. Try the pulled pork sandwich, tri tip sandwich or the beef ribs which reviewers say trump the baby back ribs any day. The barbecue sauce is on the sweeter side (just an FYI for those who prefer a more savory sauce). You'll order food at the register and then seat yourself.
Recommended for Best Value because: Big portions of filling barbecued meats lathered in delicious sauce. You'll be full.
Katie's expert tip: Forget about it if it's before or after an event at the Sports Arena. Basically, everything (including the sides) is good here.
This Hawaiian-themed, no-frills eatery is revered for its hearty portions, low prices and amiable atmosphere. Late-risers appreciate that breakfast is served from open to close, and burgers get raves as well. If you're lucky, you'll snag a table outside, where you can enjoy a gorgeous view of the beach. Don't let long lines deter you as they move quickly. Some claim that Kono's Cafe has the best breakfast burritos and breakfast sandwiches that they've ever had and at usually under $5, they are worth a try. If you're avoiding eggs, egg-beaters are on offer as an alternative. Kids are welcome.
Recommended for Best Value because: It's a no-frills place. Go for breakfast where most burritos are usually under $5.
Katie's expert tip: The portions are enormous which makes the price a complete bargain. The ambiance is as casual as it gets--beachwear is totally acceptable.
Family-owned and operated since 1950, Filippi's Pizza Grotto is a go-to spot for Italian food in Little Italy. This casual restaurant is famous for mouth-watering pizzas (locals rave about the cheese) and monumental meatball subs. There can be a wait, but it's one locals are willing to endure. Walk through the deli (they sell sauces, cookies and more)and into the restaurant and feel immediately transported into Italy. Beer and wine are on offer. Parking can be tricky so plan time to find a spot and definitely come with an appetite. Filippi's accepts to go orders for those who are headed out to sightsee.
Recommended for Best Value because: Filippi's offers generous portions, delicious pizza and service with a smile.
Katie's expert tip: Lasagne is my order and I always have to take some of it home because it's huge!
Barrio Logan isn't really one of San Diego's tourist hot spots but some locals argue that Las Cuatro Milpas is the one place to take out of town guests for Mexican food. There is almost always a line--that can take up to an hour at lunch. The menu is small as it's a you-get-what-they-serve type of place. That's just fine with locals who have been eating here for over 20 years with some driving miles and miles for a Las Milpas fix. Menu items usually include tamales, tacos, burritos rice and beans with delicious homemade tortillas. The only meats are pork, chicken and chorizo.
Recommended for Best Value because: If you want authentic Mexican food, this is the place to go. It's not at all touristy.
Katie's expert tip: Be prepared to wait in line for up to an hour if you go at lunch. The tamales are outstanding.
Small and unassuming, El Pescador Fish Market in La Jolla has been a local favorite for over 30 years. Place an order to-go, pick up some fresh fish from the market or dine in. El Pescador is known for it's fish sandwiches, with swordfish and calamari being the most popular. Or, pick a fish, decide if you want it char-grilled or sauteed, and then put it on a salad (all salad dressings are homemade) or order a full plate, which includes a small salad and steamed rice. Prices are reasonable, service is friendly and the quality superb. Leave your fancy clothes at home as the ambiance is beach-casual.
Recommended for Best Value because: It's a hidden gem in La Jolla where beachwear is totally ok. You can't beat the fresh fish sandwiches or ceviche.
Katie's expert tip: Take home some honey-smoked salmon. It perks up a homemade salad or morning bagel.
This is one place where waiting for a table proves worthwhile - The Mission is the local favorite for hearty, unusual breakfasts and lunches. Fill up on Chino-Latino and American dishes like the Zen Breakfast (scrambled egg whites, braised tofu, brown rice, and lightly grilled veggies), the Desayuno Burrito (tortilla filled with potatoes, eggs, cheese, beans, and chipotle cream), strawberry-granola pancakes, and roast beef hash and eggs. Great coffee; wonderful quesadillas, wraps and tacos for lunch. Prices are reasonable and portions are huge with some saying a stack of pancakes can feed multiple people. The Mission is also very kid-friendly.
Recommended for Best Value because: The Mission is famous for hearty, nap-inducing breakfasts that don't require big bills.
Katie's expert tip: If you like french toast, order it here. The banana pancakes are also good. Be prepared to take some food home with you.
It hasn't been around that long but some are already claiming that Oscar's Mexican Seafood is the best Mexican in San Diego. A hole in the wall near a smoke shop and a dive bar, this gem is casual with a to-go atmosphere and very little seating. The tacos, which can be upgraded to a burrito for just $1 more, are worth the wait--and there is often a wait. Portions are huge with the tacos heaving with meat, cheese and avocados. Double the avocados if you like for just 50 cents and grab an agua fresca with free refills. Parking is usually OK on the street. It's cash only with no real place to sit, however.
Recommended for Best Value because: Oscar's may be new, but it's already hailed as one of the best spots to grab a fish taco.
Katie's expert tip: It is popular, but worth the wait for an awesome shrimp or fish taco. Try the smoked fish taco.
Modern diner Hash House A Go Go specializes in BIG "Twisted Farm Food" so bring your appetite. For breakfast or brunch (served a la carte), indulge in a plate of hash with meatloaf, salmon, or corned beef. Try flapjacks such as the traditional buttermilk variety, or something different like blackberry-granola or butterscotch-almond. Nursing a hangover? Order the "O'Hare of the Dog," a 24-oz Budweiser in a brown bag and a side of bacon. Lunch and dinner choices are just as mammoth including a one-pound burger stuffed with mashed potatoes and bacon, or go for the stellar sage fried chicken, a show-stopping dish.
Recommended for Best Value because: Simply put: Eye-popping, giant portions or hearty fare like chicken and waffles big enough for 3 people.
Katie's expert tip: Plan to make this your only meal of the day or consider sharing.
CUCINA Urbana, located in Banker's Hill, is a California inspired Italian Kitchen and Wine Shop. Enjoy favorites such as pizza, Stuffed Fried Squash Blossoms, and Veal Piccata while dining traditionally or family-style. Locally-sourced and organic ingredients are used whenever possible while keeping most menu items at under $20. The decor mixes a modern kitchen and an old rustic farmhouse together with splashes of bohemian accents. Have a look around. Due to popular demand, some of the items in the restaurant are for sale, but act quickly as they can be one-of-a-kind. This restaurant is a favorite of local San Diegans because it's reasonably priced, family-friendly, chic and delicious, all wrapped into one. There is now a Del Mar location.
Recommended for Best Value because: CUCINA Urbana offers five-star Italian food without the five-star pricing. Bring the kids or go for date night as either works.
Katie's expert tip: Like the decor? You can buy it online through their website.
Recently featured on Food Network's "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" Hodad's serves up huge, juicy, gourmet burgers without attitude. The atmosphere is dive-like with license plates and memorabilia lining the walls and blaring music to set the mood. They don't care if you're shoeless or shirtless (men only!) at this Ocean Beach location as it's THAT casual. If you're lucky enough to grab a table, make sure not to linger as a line snaking out the door is anxiously awaiting their burger heaven. Don't forget to pair a beer or an awesome shake with your burger. This is definitely one of San Diego's most famous restaurants.
Recommended for Best Value because: Famous for being featured on a Food Network TV show, this dive offers the best burger in town. How can Guy Fieri be wrong?
Katie's expert tip: Get the Blue Jay burger with blue cheese and grilled onions and then dream about it later. The onion rings are delicious too.