Get Your Eat On

3rd Corner Wine Shop and Bistro. 2265 Bacon St., Ocean Beach. Incorporates a wine store, full bar and short menu bistro into one location. Appetizers such as their artisan cheese plate, olive and paté samplers and a smoked salmon plate complement a huge wine selection. Entrees include short ribs with mashed potatoes, fresh fish of the day and pasta. Open 11 a.m.-1:30 a.m., closed Monday. 619-223-2700. $$

Brian's Eatery and Drinkery. 828 6th Ave., Downtown. (Second location in Hillcrest on Washington Street.) All-night diner with good greasy-spoon eats. Breakfast is served 24/7 with dishes like biscuits and gravy, omelets, Mexican breakfast, Belgian waffles and pancakes. Lunch and dinner include diner classics like burgers, sandwiches, steaks, pork chops and chicken-fried steak. Also has a full bar with happy hour from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 619-702-8456. $

The Cheesecake Factory. 7067 Friars Road, Mission Valley. With a diverse menu and its signature dessert, the Cheesecake Factory's vibe is reminiscent of a fancy Vegas casino restaurant. The service is friendly and the food consistently good. Be ready to wait for a table. Open 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Sunday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-midnight Friday-Saturday. 619-683-2800. $$$

Cody's. 8030 Girard Ave., La Jolla. Mere steps from the La Jolla Cove, this eatery, located in a charming 1940s yellow cottage, offers innovative breakfast, lunch and dinner menus that are as appealing as the ocean view. For breakfast, try the house-made Rosemary biscuits with pepper gravy, sage sausage and scrambled eggs. Or catch the sunset while sipping a glass of wine and nibbling on the crostini with Brie, pear-jalapeno jam and fig compote. Breakfast served 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily; dinner served beginning at 4:30 p.m. 858-459-0040. $$$

Corvette Diner. 3946 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest. A quiet dinner spot this is not. Get ready to be bombarded by ‘50s Americana pop-culture-down to the waitresses' beehives and poodle skirts. The portions are large and the prices fair. They offer "all-American" food like meatloaf and burgers that go well with tasty shakes and malts. Open 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-midnight Friday-Saturday. 619-542-1001. $$

Downtown Johnny Brown's. 1220 Third Ave., Downtown. They offer some mean bacon, cheddar and chili burgers. You can also have chicken or fish between your buns if beef isn't your bag. The soups and salad are tasty too. Open 11 a.m.-midnight daily. 619-232-8414. $$

Grand Central Café. 500 West Broadway, Downtown. Located in the historic YMCA building, this 80-year-old restaurant boasts one of the bigger menus around, with a huge selection of breakfasts, sandwiches and burgers plus healthy lunches like baked potatoes and homemade soups. Open 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday-Friday; 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. 619-234-CAFE. $

The Guild Restaurant & Lounge. 1805 Newton Ave., Barrio Logan. Prepare for a food-and-design experience. The Guild has a creative menu with items such as cubes of raw tuna and avocado with creamy wasabi foam and a tasty dish called the Unexpected Greek Salad. Foams abound, but like the décor, they're done just right. Coffee is served 7-11 a.m. Monday-Friday; Lunch 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday; and Dinner 4-10 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. 619-564-7584. $$.

Hash House A Go Go. 3628 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest. Not only is the specialty hash great, but other items like the meat loaf sandwich and rack of lamb are excellent. The prices are moderate and the service friendly. Open for breakfast and lunch: 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday-Friday; 7:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Saturday-Sunday; for dinner: 5:30-9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 5:30-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 619-298-4646. $$$

Hodad's. 5010 Newport Ave., Ocean Beach. Surfers and hodads alike are welcome for a variety of beers and burgers enjoyed amid traditional surf décor and license plate-decked walls. Open 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 619-224-4623. $

Imperial House. 505 Kalmia St., Bankers Hill. Fine cuisine and attentive service in a quiet environment that recalls an age gone by. Hors d'oeuvres include blue point oysters, smoked salmon and caviar, coquilles St. Jacques and escargots. Broiled lobster, Steak Dianne and roast rack of lamb jardinière level out the best of the dinner menu, and 15 types of Scotch are waiting to be sampled in the cocktail lounge. Dining room open for lunch 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday; 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday; 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Saturday. 619-234-3525. $$$$

Indigo Grill. 1536 India St., Little Italy. Get ready for your senses to be tickled. The friendly staff serves delights like pumpkin creme brulée, hickory and apple smoked pork ribs and tasty bread pudding. Open for lunch: 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday-Friday; for dinner: 5-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 5-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 619-234-6802. $$$

Kono's Café. 704 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach. Whether you‘re coming from the beach or East County, this gem next to Crystal Pier is definitely worth the unavoidable line. Breakfast burritos, mexi-burgers and more are all served up with a smile. Open 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday; 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. 858-483-1669. $

Nick's at the Beach. 809 Thomas Ave., Pacific Beach. Nick's serves a variety of seafood as well as burgers, salads and pastas. Open 11 a.m.-1 a.m. Monday-Saturday; 9 a.m.-1 a.m. Sunday. 858-270-1730. $$

O'Brien's. 4646 Convoy St., Suite 117, Kearny Mesa. Home to the finest beers in San Diego, O'Brien's offers its customers a wide selection ranging from locally brewed ales to a specially imported Belgian supply. All that beer is going to go great with their soup specials and authentic spicy Cajun gumbo. Open 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Monday-Wednesday; 11 a.m.-11p.m., Thursday-Friday; 12 p.m.-10 p.m., Saturday; closed Sunday. 858-715-1745. $

Ruby's Diner. 1640 Camino Del Rio N., Mission Valley. (Also locations in Encinitas and Oceanside.) Right next to the AMC 20, Ruby's is ideal for a pre-movie dinner. It has a fun ‘50s atmosphere and great burgers, fries and shakes. Open 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 8 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 619-294-7829. $$

Rudford's Restaurant. 2900 El Cajon Blvd., North Park. All-American comfort food from French dip to club sandwiches to the usual breakfast food brings in the norm of customers during the day and a wild sort at night. Open 24 hours, every day, since 1949. 619-282-8423. $$

Seau's The Restaurant. 1640 Camino del Rio North, Mission Valley. Take in a good meal and the sport-themed décor, courtesy of San Diego's most famous ex-linebacker. Menu faves include Mama Seau's teriyaki chicken and the lobster ravioli. Open 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-midnight Friday-Saturday. 619-291-SEAU. $$

Tioli's Crazy Burger. 4201 30th St., North Park. The former Italian eatery has changed ownership and drastically changed the menu. Now, it's all about burgers and beer-32 different burgers (like the "Croatia" with roasted bell pepper and garlic or the "Francaise" with melted brie cheese), fantastic happy-hour specials and a draft-beer selection that includes Bavarian Hefeweizen, Pilsner Urquell and Guinness. Open 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 619-282-6044. $

Top of the Park. 525 Spruce St., Bankers Hill. This restaurant sits seven stories high overlooking Hillcrest to the north, downtown to the south, Balboa Park to the east and the harbor to the west. For lunch, try a French dip or Andrew's Chicken Romesco Sandwich. For dinner, try the lobster truffle mac, which consists of macaroni and cheese with lobster, black truffles and white truffle oil. Lunch served 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday-Friday; Dinner served every day 5 p.m.-10 p.m. 619-291-0999. $$$

The Wit's End. 420 Robinson Ave., Hillcrest. Great beer selection, tasty food and TVs tuned to The Daily Show. What more can San Diego's hungry progressives ask for? Extensive sandwich and salad selection, too. Kitchen's open from noon to 9 p.m. Monday-Wednesday; noon-9:30 p.m. Thursday-Friday; 4-9:30 p.m. Saturday. Bar stays open till "whenever." Closed Sundays. 619-294-4848. $

BREAKFAST

Big Kitchen Restaurant. 3003 Grape St., Golden Hill. Owner Judy Forman will sing your name when she calls you to your table-entertaining enough to make this place worth the wait. Be sure to order a side of coffee cake for your table to share. Open 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday- Friday; 7:30 to 3 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. 619-234-5789. $

Broken Yolk Café. 1851 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach. This breakfast and lunch spot offers a variety of omelets along with a tempting free meal if you finish their 12-egg omelet and side order. There's an upstairs patio for outdoor dining. Come early on the weekend-this place is popular. 6 a.m.-3 p.m. daily. 858-270-0045. $

The Mission. Locations in North Park, Mission Beach and East Village. Among the most popular breakfast joints in town (also serving lunch), The Mission boasts a unique, health-oriented Latin-Asian-fusion cuisine. CityBeat staff favorites include the Papas Loco, the Zen Breakfast and the chicken-apple sausage and eggs. All three locations are open 7 a.m.-3 p.m. daily. 2801 University Ave., North Park, 619-220-8992; 3795 Mission Blvd., Mission Beach, 858-488-9060; 1250 J St., East Village, 619-232-7662. $

Perry's Café. 4610 Pacific Highway, Midway. (Additional location: 475 N. Magnolia Ave., El Cajon.) Perry's is your typical greasy-spoon breakfast joint, minus the greasy spoon. If you're looking for generous portions of your favorite American or Mexican breakfasts, Perry's is the place if you're ready to brave the line. Open 6 a.m.-2 p.m. 619-291-7121. $

PL Bagel. 3704 Voltaire St., Point Loma. As far away from a major bagel chain as it gets, this is a family-owned bakery that manages to maintain New York's bagel quality control. Make sure to come by on the weekends when the shop offers fresh bialys. 619-223-4788. $ 

CAJUN & CREOLE

Bud's Louisiana Food Shoppe. 2034 Kettner Blvd. #12, Little Italy. Cajun food from folks who know New Orleans. Spicy, as most Cajun is, but the staff will make sure it's not too hot for your taste. Great menu featuring seafood, jambalaya, po' boy sandwiches and a wide range of New Orleans beer. Open Tuesday-Saturday; lunch served from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., dinner served from 5-9 p.m. 619-239-4210. $$

Chateau Orleans. 926 Turquoise St., Pacific Beach. They cook up some good eats here in an environment that puts the guest in a Louisiana kitchen. The jambalaya is a real treat, as well as the Beignets. Open 6-10 p.m. Monday-Saturday; closed Sunday. 858-488-6744. $$$

Magnolias Authentic Southern Dining. 342 Euclid Ave., Suite 403, Market Creek Plaza. Chef Bessie Johnson has another hit with her newest restaurant, located in Southeast San Diego's recently built Market Creek Plaza. The menu comprises true Louisiana comfort food done right, like ettoufées, pork chops and hush puppies. Finish off your meal with a big slice of sweet potato pie. Open 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; noon-8:30 p.m. Sunday; 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, 619-262-6005. $$

CALIFORNIA CUISINE

1550 Ocean. 1550 Ocean Ave., Coronado. This dining room at the Hotel Del is upscale, but not too snooty for those who want something a little more formal. Their eccentric menu is geared toward the adventurous foodie, but the menu leaves room for staples such as mac'n'cheese (with aged cheddar and spiral pasta). An all-appetizer meal is an affordable and eclectic way to order. Dinner only: From 5:30 p.m. daily. 619-522-8490. $$$$    

Bellefleur Restaurant. 5610 Paseo del Norte, Carlsbad. With a romantic feel and Tuscan flare, this restaurant is great for a date or just lunch. There is a happy hour with televised sports where the appealing appetizers are offered for reduced prices. The food is fantastic and the wine list fair. Open for lunch: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Saturday; dinner: 5-10 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 4-9 p.m. Sunday. 760-603-1919. $$$$

Blanca. 437 S. Highway 101, Solana Beach. Chef Wade Hageman's innovative use of ingredients and the restaurant's cozy-yet-comfortable decor make this eatery a must. Try the unassuming-yet-addictive Wisconsin heirloom black popcorn as a starter. Dinner only: from 5 p.m. daily. 858-792-0072. $$$$ 

Dobson's. 956 Broadway Circle, Downtown. Despite the nice décor, French food and à la carte everything, they serve up one good burger. A short walk from the Civic, Lyceum and Spreckels, this is a good place for a pre-theater dinner. Open for lunch: 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday; for dinner: 5:30-10 p.m. Monday-Wednesday; 5:30-11pm Thursday-Saturday; closed Sunday. 619-231-6771. $$$$

Nine-Ten. 910 Prospect St., La Jolla. The décor here is light and elegant. The menu, which changes daily, offers delights such as lobster risotto, roasted foie gras and creme brulee for dessert. Breakfast: 6:30-11 a.m., lunch: 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., dinner: 6-10 p.m. nightly. Afternoon menu available from 2:30-6 p.m. 858-729-5395. $$$$

CHINESE

99 Ranch Market. 7330 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., Kearny Mesa. 99 Ranch Market's deli offers a variety of classic favorites, such as Kung Pao Chicken, Beef with Broccoli and Egg Rolls. Try one of the daily rotating lunch specials, which include an entrée, rice, soup and sometimes a banana. Open 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 9 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Friday; 8 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Saturday; 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday. 858-974-8899. $

Ba Ren Restaurant. 4957 Diane Ave., North Clairemont. A gigantic 533-item menu offers a little something for everyone. Be prepared for some hardcore spiciness with entrées like Kung Pao Chicken, which packs more pow than usual. If that's not your bag, refer to the "American Favorites" section of the menu for fried rice, chow mein and other such basics. Open 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. daily. 858-279-2520. $$

China Max. 4698 Convoy Street, Kearny Mesa. Authentic modern Chinese. They cook their black pepper steak in a manner unlike any other Chinese restaurant. The lamb is mighty tasty too. Strip mall location. Open 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Monday-Friday. 858-650-3333. $$$

Hong Kong Restaurant. 3871 Fourth Ave., Hillcrest. Open until the early hours of the morning, when it gets busy, this cozy place serves good combination plates that include soup, egg rolls, fried wontons, rice and your choice of entrée. They also offer a good selection of vegetarian dishes. The portions are generous and the help is attentive and polite. Open 11 a.m.-3 a.m. Monday-Friday; noon-3 a.m. Saturday-Sunday. 619-291-9449. $$

Jasmine. 4609 Convoy St., Kearny Mesa. White tables seem to float in a hall-like dining area. The dim sum is said to be the best in town, though the service could be better. Open 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 10 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Friday; 9:30 a.m.-10:30p.m. Saturday-Sunday. 858-268-0888. $$$

Panda Inn. 506 Horton Plaza, Downtown. Try the honey-walnut shrimp, orange-flavored chicken and beef or lettuce cups. Open 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 619-233-7800. $$$

P.F. Chang's. 7077 Friars Road., Mission Valley. (Another location in UTC.) They serve various traditional Chinese dishes, and the elegant décor is a bonus. The house favorites include Mongolian beef and honey shrimp. Open 11 a.m.-11 p.m. daily. 619-260-8484. $$$

DELI & SANDWICHES

City Deli. 535 University Ave., Hillcrest. One of San Diego's few authentic Jewish delis, City Deli does the standard blintzes and bagels, but its extensive menu also includes great burgers as well as breakfast all day. Don't miss the pastry counter on your way out. Open 7 a.m.-midnight Sunday-Thursday; 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday. 619-297-2222. $$

Elijah's Delicatessen. 8861 Villa La Jolla Dr., La Jolla (second location in Del Mar). If you're looking for New York-style comfort food, this is the place. The menu includes Jewish deli classics such as liver and onions, stuffed cabbage, roasted brisket, potato pancakes and noodle kugel. 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 7 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday; 8 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday; 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday. 858-455-1461. $$

EZ-Jay's. 1088 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach. (Another location downtown.) A wide selection of specialty sandwiches centered on the "Bit'ers" line: the Bit'ers Deluxe, the Ranch Bit'ers Deluxe, the Caesar Bit'ers Deluxe, ad infinitum. One of the few places these days where you can get down to a game of old-school Galaga. Open 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. 858-483-0123. $

Giorgino’s. 1237 28th St., Golden Hill. An East Coast style joint with a diverse menu that includes cheese steaks, subs, pasta, wings and more. East Coast staple ingredients like Amoroso Rolls, John Taylor’s Pork Roll, Boar’s Head meats and Cceeses serve as a launching pad for truly authentic flavors. The dining room is small, but their delivery area is surprisingly large. Open 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday thru Friday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. 619-234-9141. $
 

JJ's Pizza Deli. 5737 La Jolla Blvd., La Jolla. Surf decor, surf videos and no-frills hungry surfer-type grub in the proximity of Bird Rock. Featuring terrific sub sandwiches and pizza by the slice. Toppings are generous and fresh. Open 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 858-456-2473. $

K Sandwiches. 7604 Linda Vista Road, Linda Vista. Delicious Vietnamese-French sandwiches are served on fresh baguettes or croissants, your preference. Pick from things like pâte, pork or good ol' ham and cheese to fill the sandwich. Wash it down with a fresh, iced soybean drink or their café sua da espresso. Open 6 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday. 858-278-8961. $

Lang's. 6165 El Cajon Blvd., Suite F, College Area. Kosher breads, bagels, and meals served up in an unlikely place-in a Von's shopping center near San Diego State. Open 7 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Sunday; 6:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Monday; 6:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday; 6:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday; one hour after sundown until 10:30 p.m. Saturday. 619-287-7306. $

The Philadelphia Sandwich Company. 3904 Convoy St., Kearny Mesa. Known and loved by locals, they offer a mean cheese-steak sandwich along with other deli sandwiches. The place is decked out with down-home Philly decor and mummer's costumes. Open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday-Wednesday; 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday-Friday. 858-571-0888. $

Venissimo Cheese. 754 W. Washington St., Mission Hills. For a brown-bag lunch of the gourmet variety, nothing is as simple as the lunch special at this little shop. Five dollars gets you a choice of bread--like a crusty Francese roll--stuffed with any of their luscious cheeses, as well as a juicy piece of fruit. 619-491-0708. $

DESSERTS

Extraordinary Desserts. 2929 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill (619-294-2132) and 1430 Union St., Downtown (619-294-7001). If you're looking for something sweet, you can't go wrong with either of Karen Krasne's two dessert spots. The newest one, downtown, is sleek and modern, offering a large selection of savory treats as well as dessrts, while her Uptown flagship spot is the cozy, romantic dessert-focused option. Dessert selections vary, and we're yet to try one that isn't a hit. Both locations open 8:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 8:30 a.m.-midnight Friday; 10 a.m.-midnight Saturday; 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Sunday. $$

Heaven Sent Desserts. 3001 University Ave., North Park. This isn't your usual chocolate decadence, ho-hum place; it's a destination you'll want to try, where ingredients and ideas from around the world are presented exquisitely. Here you'll find desserts like panna cotta ("cooked cream") with halved fresh strawberries, balsamic syrup and a sprinkling of fresh syrup. 619-793-4758. Open 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-11:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Sunday. $

Opera Patisserie. 1354 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill. Looking for light, crisp and sweet French macaroons (found pretty much nowhere else in town?), or the perfect mini pastry dessert tray for your next soirée? This new addition to San Diego's dessert scene makes decadent, lovely cakes, cookies and pastries, not to mention tasty sandwiches and French-style pizzas. 619-234-0425. Call for hours. $

Sage French Cake's. 3860 Convoy St., Suite S112, Kearny Mesa. The owner and pastry chef of this tiny shop perfects desserts in the European style while keeping an Asian sensibility. Sage's cakes are lighter than typical dense European desserts-try the Tambouran, a light chocolate-cake base topped with coconut custard and fresh orange. 858-571-3484. $

Stephanie's Bakery. 4879 Voltaire St., Ocean Beach. Stephanie's is a vegan bakery whose treats aren't lacking tastiness. Indulge your sweet tooth with a warm-from-the-oven Black Forest Strudel or one of its other nine forms, such as apricot and apple. Open 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday-Friday; 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, closed Monday-Wednesday. 619-221-0285. $

ENGLISH

Princess Pub & Grill. 1665 India St., Little Italy. Decked out British-style, 17 draughts are on tap at the bar, which takes up one side of the room. Also offered are traditional English dishes such as steak and kidney pie, fish 'n' chips and the crowd-pleasing complete English Breakfast. Open 11 a.m.- 1 a.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m.- 1 a.m. Saturday-Sunday. 619-702-3021. $$

Shakespeare Pub & Grill. 3701 India St., Mission Hills. If you're looking for an authentic British pub, this place can't be beat. The fish and chips are fantastic-just the way pub grub should be-and you can find other traditional foods like Shepherds Pie and Scotch Eggs to accompany your Black and Tan. Check out the British foods shop next door, too. Our pals from across the pond give it a thumbs' up. Open 11 a.m.-midnight Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-1 a.m. Friday; 7 a.m. (for football matches)-1 a.m. Saturday; 8 a.m.-midnight Sunday. 619-299-0230. $$

ETHIOPIAN

Awash. 4979 El Cajon Blvd., City Heights. Here you can soak your injera (a spongy flatbread) in an array of exotic Ethiopian stews while barely soaking your wallet. Enjoy your meal with a delectable glass of honey wine and if that's not sweet enough for ya, try the Baklava for dessert. 619-583-9225. Open 11:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m. $

Harar. 2432 El Cajon Blvd., North Park. This homey place serves meals with traditional injera bread, which doubles as a utensil. The combo platter includes a little of everything and carnivores will love the chicken. Open 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Saturday. 619-295-3735. $$

FRENCH/CONTINENTAL

La Bastide Bistro. 10006 Scripps Ranch Blvd. #104, Scripps Ranch. Straightforward French cuisine in unpretentious surroundings. Good place for a romantic meal, or otherwise. Lunch features salads, quiche, sandwiches and crepes. Try the escargot for dinner if you're feeling adventurous, or save room for their decadent desserts. Open 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; closed Sunday. 858-577-0033. $$$

Café Chloe. 721 9th Ave., No. 1, East Village. An authentic French bistro, elegant without being pretentious. Steak and frites are a simple pleasure. Descriptive wine and beer list with an overall attention to detail. Outdoor seating. Open for breakfast: 8 a.m.-11 a.m. Tuesday-Friday; lunch: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday; Dinner: 5 p.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Saturday. 619-232-3242. $$$

Chez Loma. 1132 Loma Ave., Coronado. A nice, romantic dinner spot, they offer classic French cuisine in innovative ways. They are known for their roast duck and offer such classics as an escargot appetizer and light dessert crepes. Open nightly from 5 p.m. 619-435-0661. $$$$

Forever Fondue. 909 Prospect St., La Jolla and 6110 Friars Road, Mission Valley. Prepare for a fun experience in sharing and interactive eating. Fondue types range from cheese fondues to entrée fondues, which are made up of raw meats and seafood to cook in the simmering broth. End the experience with a molten chocolate fondue. Open for lunch and dinner. La Jolla, 858-551-4509; Mission Valley, 619-295-7792. $$-$$$$

The Marine Room. 2000 Spindrift Drive, La Jolla. A location close to the ocean and décor so elegant it's hard to go wrong. Combine that with excellent seafood and sinful desserts. The Ceasar salad is made tableside and is great. Open for lunch: 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; for dinner: 5:30-10 p.m. nightly; for brunch: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday. (No lunch on Mondays.) 858-459-7222. $$$$

Pamplemousse Grille. 514 Via de la Valle, Del Mar. Named after the French word for grapefruit, this place offers some nice, romantic ambience and good food. Just across from the racetrack, it makes for a good before- or after-race meal. Open for lunch: 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Fridays only; for dinner: 5-9 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and 5-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 858-792-9090. $$$$

St. Tropez Bakery & Bistro. 3805 Fifth Ave., Hillcrest. (Additional locations in Rancho Bernardo, Sorrento Valley, Encinitas and Downtown.) The owners and chefs here bring a taste of their home in the south of France. The place has a warm, pleasant feel. They offer great baked goods and pastries, as well as other dishes like quiche, panini and salads. Open 7 a.m.-8 p.m. daily. (Hours vary by location.) 619-497-0297. $$

GREEK

Aesop's Tables Greek Café. 8650 Genesee Ave., Suite 106, University City. There are two dining rooms, both with white stucco walls and one with a fireplace. The food is great. The desserts are wonderful, so save room. Open 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; 4-9 p.m. Sunday. 858-455-1535. $$

Athens Market Taverna. 109 W. F St., Gaslamp Quarter. Dine in a pleasant setting and enjoy a selection from the Greek wine list. The chicken dishes are all good, as is the lentil soup and the service is impressive. Open for lunch: 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday; for dinner: 4 p.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Saturday; closed Sunday. 619-234-1955. $$$

Café Athena. 1846 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach. The décor may be sparse, but the prices are reasonable and the service good. They offer your standard Greek classics: baklava, humus, kebabs and stuffed grape leaves on the outdoor patio, indoor tables or a bar for single eaters. Open 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 858-274-1140. $$

Simas Grill & Deli. 7160 Miramar Road, Miramar. The décor may be lacking, but the food is worth it. The burgers are homemade and very tasty. The deli sandwiches and gyros are great as well. Open 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday; closed Sunday 858-578-2582. $

ITALIAN

Barbarella. 2171 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla. This seaside neighborhood restaurant cooks up a seasonal, innovative menu, which includes steak and frites (fries), pastas, and a few pizzas. 858-454-7373.

Bronx Pizza. 111 Washington St., Hillcrest. A taste of New York is waiting in this small and intimate pizza shop. At large tables you can sit next to a total stranger and enjoy tasty homemade pizzas made with fresh ingredients. Open 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-midnight Friday-Saturday. 619-291-3341. $$

Buca di Beppo. 705 6th Ave., San Diego (another location in Mira Mesa). Classic Italian dishes are served family-style in a warm, friendly, wacky décor. Try the yummy desserts, like tiramisu, cannoli and bread pudding. Open noon-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; noon-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 619-233-7272. $$$

Café Zucchero. 1731 India St., Little Italy. The food is excellent, but they're known for their gelato. It comes in six flavors, and two more that are non-dairy. There is a garden patio out back, perfect for enjoying an espresso or cappuccino. Breakfast 7-10:30 a.m.; lunch 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; dinner 5-10 p.m. daily. 619-531-1731. $$

Caffe Bella Italia. 4411 Mercury St., Kearny Mesa (the Pacific Beach location is now under separate ownership). Great for business lunches, as well as dinner. Husband-and-wife owners and chefs are from Milan and Rome, so the food is an authentic taste of Italy. Open 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Saturday; closed Sunday. 858-278-5367. $$$

House of Pizza. 8107 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla. A long-time staple of the neighborhood, this pizza place does a good pepperoni. Best for take-out, since there is no outdoor seating and only a few sidewalk tables. 858-551-0125. $

Jack & Giulio's. 2391 San Diego Ave., Old Town. J&G's offers patio dining where you can enjoy classic favorites like scampi alla Guilio and veal chops. Open for lunch: 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Monday-Friday; for dinner: 5-9:30 p.m. Monday-Friday; noon-10:30 p.m. Saturday; noon-9:30 p.m. Sunday. 619-294-2074. $$$

Lotsa Pasta. 1726 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach. The "You're the Chef" concept allows you to create your own dish from a wide selection of pastas, sauces, raviolis and lasagnas. The Timpano entrée and newly-added grill items such as chicken and salmon are a must-try as well. Patio dining available. Open seven days a week: 11a.m. -9 p.m. Monday-Friday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. 858-581-6777. $$

Mamma Mia. 1932 Balboa Ave., Pacific Beach. Located in a little orange house in PB and owned by a charming young Italian couple, come here for traditional homemade sauces and pastas or try the tasty Panzerotti-deep-fried pockets of savory dough stuffed with mozzarella and ham. Open 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday, closed Monday. 858-272-2702. $

Old Venice. 2910 Canon St., Point Loma. While some say it's hard to find, all agree this place has great pizza, salads and classic Italian cuisine. The two patios are ideal for a romantic meal. Open 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Friday; 11-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 4 p.m.-9 p.m. Sunday. 619-222-5888. $$$$

Osteria Romantica. 2151 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla. A neighborhood and family friendly place where Italian is spoken and tables are close to give it a cozy, homey feel. The menu features homemade gnocchi and interesting selections of salads and entrées. Open 11:30-2:30 p.m. seven days a week for lunch; open for dinner 5-10 p.m. weekdays, 5-10 p.m. weekends. 858-551-1221. $$

Parioli Bistro. 647 South Coast Highway 101, Solana Beach. Romantic décor and elegant dining in North County. Seasonal and perennial dishes with a lot of seafood. Includes classic antipasti dishes, salads, entrees like fettuccini, veal, or lobster and desserts. Open until 10 p.m. nightly, with happy hour from 5 p.m.-7 p.m. 858-755-2525. $$$

Pernicano's Family Restaurant. 711 Turquoise St., Pacific Beach. In Italian, the word for it is "atmosfera." Pernicano's is wonderfully eclectic, featuring a large model gondola and, occasionally, Mr. P himself on piano. A fine place to try if you're looking for a good pizza/pasta fare in not-your-average setting. Open 5-10 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday. 858-488-2900. $$ (Other location: 9988 Scripps Ranch Blvd., 858-271-5250).

Piatti Locali. 2182 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla. This restaurant uses local ingredients, especially produce. The menu isn't huge, but includes mushroom-and-goat-cheese pizza, which goes nicely with a drink from the bar. Steamed mussels, braised short ribs and homemade ravioli are all good. Come Thursdays for the osso bucco (braised veal shank). Open Monday-Thursday 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m.-10 p.m. 854-454-1589. $$

Pizza Nova. 945 Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach. They have a variety of fantastic dishes and tasty bread that comes with the meal. The pizzas are great and the salads are huge and flavorful. Open 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11:00 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday. 858-259-0666. $$

Pizzeria Luigi. 1137 25th St., Golden Hill. The hipness quotient here won't be able to distract you from the thin-crust pies, which rival the legendary Bronx Pizza for the best New York-style pizza in town.  Go for the lunch special--two slices and a soda for only $5.50. 619-233-3309. $ 

Primavera Ristorante. 932 Orange Ave., Coronado. The décor here is pleasing and the food fantastic. Try one of the many veal dishes, or maybe the Caesar Salad, a house specialty. 5-10:30 p.m. daily. 619-435-0454. $$$$

Sammy's Woodfired Pizza. 702 Pearl St., La Jolla (eight locations in San Diego County). Sammy's offers up huge portions and a variety of menu items. Gourmet pizzas like Thai chicken with peanut sauce, salads, and pastas such as chicken tequila fettuccine are great. The restaurant is child-friendly and the service polite. 858-456-5222 $$$

Trattoria Acqua. 1298 Prospect St., La Jolla. The elegance and quality here are prime for a ladies' luncheon, but great for men too. Pizza is available but stands in the shadow of the fine seafood dishes. Dishes to try are the tutto mare and the lobster ravioli. Lunch is 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. daily; dinner is 5 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, and 5 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday. 858-454-0709. $$$$

Trattoria Firenze. 4421 Genesee Ave., Clairemont. Hopefully the beginning of a trend of fine dining locations in Clairemont, Trattoria Firenze most definitely holds it down. Whether you're just in the mood for an American-style pizza or would like to try one of the cultured chef's many fine Italian delicacies, you'll be in for a treat. Open 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 4 p.m.-9 p.m. Sunday. 858-560-1961. $$$

The Venetian. 3663 Voltaire St., Point Loma. This family restaurant shows its real family values by serving up large portions. Awesome pizzas, tasty lasagna and excellent eggplant parmigiana. Lunch 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday-Friday, and dinner 4-9 p.m. daily. 619-223-8197. $$$