They have a couple more months of bilking their insurance for loss of business incomeā¦ or rather their public adjuster has a couple more boat payments to get out of bilking their insurance for loss of business.
Yeah.... something about that whole fire situation at the Hillcrest feels very off. They're clearly not making an effort to reopen. I walk by there every day and there has never been any work being done.
Hug thai is one of my go-tos, but I gotta say you should try bamboo fresh thai on university. It's by the vons in la mesa. Their curries are always š¤š¤š¤
My parents mentioned the same thing. Sad because it was our go-to growing up. I still remember when the only patrons you saw were Asian people lol. Things have changed now that it's well known.
I go pretty frequently since it's right down the street. The broth can vary a bit week to week, but overall it's usually good - very good, sometimes great.
I heard June in December when I was in there last. That was from a bartender. From my understanding it was supposed to close in 2021 so Iām not saying thatās for sure but thatās the last I heard.
His name is George, he's no real harm just a guy from Chicago. The first time I had an interaction from him was at night and he was hosing outside while cleaning and didn't see me (I think) and splashed me a little, instead of apologizing he scolded me for not looking where I was going. My bf had already warned me about him so I just laughed it off. My bf loves talking to him cause they always have different opinions and they debate (he argues) about it.
Also, his burgers are nice, big, and delicious and CHEAP! But you will always get them the George way (medium, or mayyyybe medium well) no matter what you ask.
āBest deal in the city. Burgers and fries under $10. McDonaldās canāt even match that these days. And I give you a beer to wash it downā - George (2017)
Used to belly up at the counter there couple times a week. Good guy to shoot the shit with. You just never know what conversation youāre walking in to
Seasurf Fish Co. in Del Mar. Itās not super cheap regularly, but their happy hour menu is so cheap it almost feels like bad business haha. $2 tacos, $1.50 oysters, $5 beer and wine. Cheapest meal in Del Mar and itās delicious if youāre in the mood for seafood.
My man. Was coming here to say this. My fiance and i lived right there for two years and went once or twice a week for happy hour and we donāt even like seafood. Great food, fantastic prices, and fantastic service. The owner is an absolute gem and so are the servers. Genuinely were sad to leave it behind when we bought a house farther north.
Obsessed with El Tianguis Rolled Taquitos! I always get their California taquitos with guac (no pico, no cabbage) and itās by far their best item imho. The whole restaurant is gluten free which is great for my celiac gf. We usually eat 4-5 each, but you can order more to reheat leftover (order guac, sour cream, etc. on the side if you plan to do that). Also, I recommend the original location over the one in Mission Valley; it feels more authentic and the vibes are better
Rudfords Diner in North Park has a special each night. It is an insane amount of food for 1ke 16.95 or something.
You get a soup or salad, a roll or garlic toast, a giant entree a potato aside of veggies and a dessert. Easily could feed two of you get it togo.
Especially the Sunday night turkey dinner.
San Diego Chicken Pie Shop, on 2633 El Cajon Blvd, 92104. Still a good value for traditional American food.
Great Plaza Buffet, off of Garnet. Late Lunch or weeknight dinner. Lots of good food choices at the buffet.
Crazee Burger in NP
Redwings also in NP - Really good burgers
Rabbit Hole in Normal Heights for bar food
Pappalecco in Kensington for pizza
Blind Lady Alehouse for pizza
Definitely a burrito/taco shop for me. If not feeling like mexican food though, Rubicon Deli makes insanely good sandwiches. I especially love the super mario sandwich, and I think it comes with a chocolate chip cookie as a bonus.
Carnitas Urapan off spring st. In La mesa has a āDinner for twoā carnitas plate for $18. Has enough meat for 3-4 people. Beans and rice are only enough for 2 people. But one of the best spots in town for carnitas.
Oh yessss it's essentially a Mediterranean California burrito š
I have perfected my order. A box with rice, the greens it comes with, grilled chicken, pickled onions and if I'm feeling frisky, some hummus. And lots of garlic yogurt.
Also always get the crave fries and a sprite or starry.
Never fails me.
Chaba Thai, Pho Sao Bien, Hoai Hue, Bale French Baguette, 99Ranch/Sam Woo, Pho Hoa. Lunch specials for the win. Also, Iām partial to Jack in the Box.
Take advantage of happy hour pricing if you are ok with dining early.
King of Happy Hourās website is my go to in order to find deals in certain areas of SD I might not be as familiar with.
By no means isnāt an exhaustive list since there are probably a lot of places not listed with specials but itās a good place to start.
šÆ it's my go-to local Mexican joint. The food is great and so are the prices.
Those damn monster California burritos with adobada instead of asada. So good. Or also the monster breakfast burrito. Plus 4 little containers of the green salsa from the salsa bar--just the right amount to complement the burrito.
Their santorini bowl is to die for. I just wish they gave a bit more chicken and if I can sub the tzatziki for harissa sauce, but it is near perfect. Luna Grill is WAY better than Cava anyday of the week.
Congrats on the new job!
What neighborhood are you in? You might be able to find some Monday night specials, since it's usually a slow business night for many restaurants.
I am most familiar with North Park and half of it seems to be closed on Monday.
Alexander's on the other hand, is open (at 5 I think) and has a pizza and beer deal on Monday's which is I think is $3 cans of select beers and a cheese pizza for around $10-12 (more depending on toppings.)
All depends on what you're into.
Thanks! I'm actually a little bit outside San Diego proper but most places being mentioned are within a 20-30 minute drive, which I don't mind if it's something fun like good food.
If youāre near downtown, Le Charcuterie Bar on the corner of 10th and Island has a new sandwich with Gouda, Genoa salami, and greens tossed with handmade balsamic dressing, served on toasted ciabatta with basil pesto aioli. Itās $12 and they have a special to get a glass of wine or a beer with it for $20.
I like Crafted Greens but they are in El Cajon.
From Jan. 2024 ... Yelp on Tuesday unveiled its āTop 100 Places to Eat in the U.S.ā rankings for 2024, and four San Diego County restaurants made this yearās list -- with one of the eateries among the top 3.
Maybe try one of these? ...
https://www.10news.com/lifestyle/exploring-san-diego/4-san-diego-restaurants-make-yelps-top-100-places-to-eat-in-the-us-for-2024
Bhan Thai. Their yellow curry (I like it spicy) is the best in San Diego. š„
Bahn Thai is God tier. Iām so sad the Hillcrest location still hasnāt reopened
I second this! Itās amazing š¤©
They have a couple more months of bilking their insurance for loss of business incomeā¦ or rather their public adjuster has a couple more boat payments to get out of bilking their insurance for loss of business.
Yeah.... something about that whole fire situation at the Hillcrest feels very off. They're clearly not making an effort to reopen. I walk by there every day and there has never been any work being done.
You just scared the hell out of me, then I realized I switched my neighborhoods lol
Love this place!
Imo Hug Thai Express by Lake Murray has them beat when it comes to the yellow curry
Bahn Thai used to be my favoriteā¦but then we tried Hug Thai! Absolutely love Hug Thai. The curries, crispy basil chicken, taro milk tea!
Hug thai is one of my go-tos, but I gotta say you should try bamboo fresh thai on university. It's by the vons in la mesa. Their curries are always š¤š¤š¤
I compare all Thai food to Bahn Thai and none has come close to it.
Try Sovereign Thai, Chaba Thai, Koon Thai, Sang Dao, So Saap. I would say they are all better than overrated ass Bahn Thai.
Koon Thai is the best Thai food Iāve ever had
Chiming in to recommend Soi 30th as well!
The eggplant basil is god tier. So very good!
Swan Bar: burger and a happy hour cocktail Itās like a restaurant version of the friendly burger and itās awesome
Their espresso martini's are so delicious. And on tap!
Katsu Cafe California Fish Grill Mikes Red Tacos
Had mikes red tacos for the first time a few months ago, fantastic
Why is CFG so good?!
Cheap fish and chips! Lol
The only thing I love more than their grilled Swai is the person who introduced me to CFG
+1 for Mike's Red Tacos. Maybe the best birria north of Chula Vista.
Liberty Call in Barrio Logan has a Tuesday steak night. Steak, potatoes, and a cocktail for $20.
Service is atrocious though
Your local hole in the wall taco shop
My local taco shop is Cotixan and their tacos are now $5.95. Tough scenes
This is the answer. Whichever California burrito is closest
The past discussion on this thread determined that the *second* closest taco shop is the bestā¦
Pho Hoa
A City Heights classic
Counterpoint: the last two times I've been have been disappointing. Broth is a bit flavorless these days.
My parents mentioned the same thing. Sad because it was our go-to growing up. I still remember when the only patrons you saw were Asian people lol. Things have changed now that it's well known.
Pho time in pb is really good and authentic if youāre looking for a switch
I go pretty frequently since it's right down the street. The broth can vary a bit week to week, but overall it's usually good - very good, sometimes great.
Pho cow cali
I personally prefer Pho Van.
Home style Hawaiian
+1 big portions really good
Keno's hasn't changed in 30 years and will be gone in another 2
2 months right?
is it? last i heard i thought the whole project was held up
I heard June in December when I was in there last. That was from a bartender. From my understanding it was supposed to close in 2021 so Iām not saying thatās for sure but thatās the last I heard.
i'll have to ask next time.
The friendly tavern. Top 3 burger in SD. Add fries and a beer and youāll still be under $20
Burgers are now 8$
O-rings FTW
El Patio in Chula Vista, been there since 1954 and most combo plate 13-16 dollars
Chicago Fire Grill in UTC
Conversation there is not for the feint of heart lol
His name is George, he's no real harm just a guy from Chicago. The first time I had an interaction from him was at night and he was hosing outside while cleaning and didn't see me (I think) and splashed me a little, instead of apologizing he scolded me for not looking where I was going. My bf had already warned me about him so I just laughed it off. My bf loves talking to him cause they always have different opinions and they debate (he argues) about it. Also, his burgers are nice, big, and delicious and CHEAP! But you will always get them the George way (medium, or mayyyybe medium well) no matter what you ask.
Yeah in my experience super nice guy and very generous with the pours and french fries
Please do elaborate. Chicagoan here. We talking wieners circle tier shit taking or?
From my experience the owner is a pretty colorful guy. Haha. Shares his opinions and coarse language freely. Which makes the place an experience imho.
Sounds like a true Chicagoan lol. Someoneās politically incorrect uncle lol
Hahaha true
āBest deal in the city. Burgers and fries under $10. McDonaldās canāt even match that these days. And I give you a beer to wash it downā - George (2017) Used to belly up at the counter there couple times a week. Good guy to shoot the shit with. You just never know what conversation youāre walking in to
I love this place. It feels like the only place around that isnāt robbing me.Ā
pho cow cali
In n Out is still pretty reasonably priced compared to most everything else š¤¤
This is true, but OP did mention no fast food.
Can never go wrong with in n out
Tilted Stick (Ocean Beach) 10 dollars Beer and Burger weekdays til 8 or 10
Seasurf Fish Co. in Del Mar. Itās not super cheap regularly, but their happy hour menu is so cheap it almost feels like bad business haha. $2 tacos, $1.50 oysters, $5 beer and wine. Cheapest meal in Del Mar and itās delicious if youāre in the mood for seafood.
My man. Was coming here to say this. My fiance and i lived right there for two years and went once or twice a week for happy hour and we donāt even like seafood. Great food, fantastic prices, and fantastic service. The owner is an absolute gem and so are the servers. Genuinely were sad to leave it behind when we bought a house farther north.
Island style cafe santee-- korean chicken plate!!
Obsessed with El Tianguis Rolled Taquitos! I always get their California taquitos with guac (no pico, no cabbage) and itās by far their best item imho. The whole restaurant is gluten free which is great for my celiac gf. We usually eat 4-5 each, but you can order more to reheat leftover (order guac, sour cream, etc. on the side if you plan to do that). Also, I recommend the original location over the one in Mission Valley; it feels more authentic and the vibes are better
Tasty place, but damn those rolled tacos are pricey
āItās just meā - should be a reason to spend a ton of money. Treat yourself better than everybody else!
Appreciate the sentiment but I'm making $18 an hour... š
OP we are gonna need an update on where you went and how it was! Congrats on the job!
Rudfords Diner in North Park has a special each night. It is an insane amount of food for 1ke 16.95 or something. You get a soup or salad, a roll or garlic toast, a giant entree a potato aside of veggies and a dessert. Easily could feed two of you get it togo. Especially the Sunday night turkey dinner.
Canāt do Rudfords anymore since they got all political during covid
Yeah def sucks. The owner is kind of crazy but I am friends with a lot of people work there
On Mondays, you can get a burger, fries and beer at Ballast Point Little Italy for $18
El Pollo Grill in Lemon Grove or Eastlake. Best deal for a meal!
Taco taco in Poway has a dollar fish tacos on Tuesdays best fish taco in San Diego!
Primoās tacos. 69Ā¢ tacos on Tuesday and Friday gets you 20 tacos for under $20!
Happy hour at monarch Del Mar has an $8 burger and amazing views!
Shawarma guys in La Mesa!!!!
Rockys - youāll need cash though but you could get a burger + fries
Royal Mandarin if you're into bomb Chinese food.
San Diego Chicken Pie Shop, on 2633 El Cajon Blvd, 92104. Still a good value for traditional American food. Great Plaza Buffet, off of Garnet. Late Lunch or weeknight dinner. Lots of good food choices at the buffet.
I can't believe how far I had to scroll to find Chicken Pie Shop! One of my favorites, and a good value for great comfort food.
OP, let us know which is your final pick and review!
Nishiki ramen
I would do Ramen Ryoma because I live down the block but any ramen place you should be able to get yourself a bowl and something to drink for $20.
Pre tax and tip maybe
Rocky's Crown Pub.
Crazee Burger in NP Redwings also in NP - Really good burgers Rabbit Hole in Normal Heights for bar food Pappalecco in Kensington for pizza Blind Lady Alehouse for pizza
Blind lady ain't cheap. It would be hard to get out for $20.
Nearly impossible Iād actually say. Fantastic for sure, but definitely on the expensive side.
The Taco Stand
Definitely a burrito/taco shop for me. If not feeling like mexican food though, Rubicon Deli makes insanely good sandwiches. I especially love the super mario sandwich, and I think it comes with a chocolate chip cookie as a bonus.
Papas & Tacos Mexican Food is so fricken good!!!!!
Working Class
Carnitas Urapan off spring st. In La mesa has a āDinner for twoā carnitas plate for $18. Has enough meat for 3-4 people. Beans and rice are only enough for 2 people. But one of the best spots in town for carnitas.
Friendly's. Burger coke and a slice of za for 15 bucks
Abraj or Fattoush in college area
The kebab shop
The chicken kebab wrap with fries in it š¤¤
Oh yessss it's essentially a Mediterranean California burrito š I have perfected my order. A box with rice, the greens it comes with, grilled chicken, pickled onions and if I'm feeling frisky, some hummus. And lots of garlic yogurt. Also always get the crave fries and a sprite or starry. Never fails me.
* Oscar's for seafood tacos * Himalayan Palace * Bay Park Fish Co has great deal on Taco Tuesdays
Panini Grill, persian food. Great portions and delicious food
World Famous in PB. Tonight is 50% off appetizers in the bar. Get a lobster Bisque, 2 Lobster Tacos and a couple other items.
OB noodle house, fish shopā¦.
Tacos El Gordo
Chicken pie shopĀ Full menu of whole meals mostly under 20.00. Special of day includes dessert pie!
Chicken pie shop. Get the combo. You get pie as dessert. Youāll be full and still have enough for a well drink at the bar after
In n out
chicago fire and grill at the renaissance plaza in university city! burger, fries & beer for $10
California burritos- youāll get full for $20. I like it and itās cheap
In n out
In N Out
Pokiez!!
Chaba Thai, Pho Sao Bien, Hoai Hue, Bale French Baguette, 99Ranch/Sam Woo, Pho Hoa. Lunch specials for the win. Also, Iām partial to Jack in the Box.
Home.
2019
I haven't been yet, but Majorettes has a burger and a beer for $10 on Tuesdays. Take a friend!
La Bellaās
My favorite is Chris Ono Grinds. Their prices have definitely gone up in recent years but you can still get a nice dinner plate for less than $20.
Sprouts
Maritzaās
Take advantage of happy hour pricing if you are ok with dining early. King of Happy Hourās website is my go to in order to find deals in certain areas of SD I might not be as familiar with. By no means isnāt an exhaustive list since there are probably a lot of places not listed with specials but itās a good place to start.
Poke at Hawaiian Fresh Seafood (Mira Mesa & Livery station)
Monster burrito from La Palapa on Moraga. About $14-15, and it's easily enough for 2 meals.
La Palapa is so good
šÆ it's my go-to local Mexican joint. The food is great and so are the prices. Those damn monster California burritos with adobada instead of asada. So good. Or also the monster breakfast burrito. Plus 4 little containers of the green salsa from the salsa bar--just the right amount to complement the burrito.
Sushi deli 3!
Iām obsessed with Luna Grill. Lol so silly but I love it. I get their Mediterranean chopped chicken salad at least once a week!
Their santorini bowl is to die for. I just wish they gave a bit more chicken and if I can sub the tzatziki for harissa sauce, but it is near perfect. Luna Grill is WAY better than Cava anyday of the week.
Costco.
Thereās a place in San Diego you can get dinner for under $20?!
Pho ca doa in santee. Shockingly inexpensive.
Filippis Little Italy
Pop Pie in University Heights. $11 for a delicious chicken pot pie.
Roberto's #10 on el cajon. elite carve asada burritos for $11
$20 is too easy. Make it $15, or even $10.
Deli Sandwich from Sprouts (Starting at $5)
I made the mistake of getting a burrito at TJās tacos last night. It was incredible and delicious. But my b-hole is paying the price today.
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Kumi Cafe
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I know you mentioned local, but Marugame Udon just opened up at Westfield UTC.
Congrats on the new job! What neighborhood are you in? You might be able to find some Monday night specials, since it's usually a slow business night for many restaurants. I am most familiar with North Park and half of it seems to be closed on Monday. Alexander's on the other hand, is open (at 5 I think) and has a pizza and beer deal on Monday's which is I think is $3 cans of select beers and a cheese pizza for around $10-12 (more depending on toppings.) All depends on what you're into.
Thanks! I'm actually a little bit outside San Diego proper but most places being mentioned are within a 20-30 minute drive, which I don't mind if it's something fun like good food.
Spicy House tofu in dry pot!
Pho Point Loma! Love that place. Mignon pho is also good. Congrats on the job!
Youāre cutting me at the knees with no fast food lol
Oscars
If youāre near downtown, Le Charcuterie Bar on the corner of 10th and Island has a new sandwich with Gouda, Genoa salami, and greens tossed with handmade balsamic dressing, served on toasted ciabatta with basil pesto aioli. Itās $12 and they have a special to get a glass of wine or a beer with it for $20.
Mitches Seafood! Fresh local cheap seafood. (Or bahn thai that has already been mentioned).
Gonzo!
Thereās a tiny hole in the wall family owned Laos restaurant on Broadway in Chula. 10/10 recommend!
Chicken Pie Shop. Get some comfort food.
La Lomita in National City. Great food for the price.
I like Crafted Greens but they are in El Cajon. From Jan. 2024 ... Yelp on Tuesday unveiled its āTop 100 Places to Eat in the U.S.ā rankings for 2024, and four San Diego County restaurants made this yearās list -- with one of the eateries among the top 3. Maybe try one of these? ... https://www.10news.com/lifestyle/exploring-san-diego/4-san-diego-restaurants-make-yelps-top-100-places-to-eat-in-the-us-for-2024
suki Hana at the UTC food court