All About San Diego

Voted best year-round weather in the world, San Diego is home to the almost eternal sunshine (without Jim Carey's "Spotless Mind"). It is never too hot and never too cold in California's second largest city. The blue skies here keep watch on the 70 miles of beaches and the area is bordered by Mexico, the Pacific Ocean, the Anza-Borrego Desert and the Laguna Mountains. With so much beachfront and plenty of cultural diversity spanning a variety of neighborhoods, you'll find everything from alternative and casual Pacific Beach to glitzy La Jolla; nonstop action in the Downtown Gaslamp Quarter to the "laid back" come-as-you-are Mission Beach district.

Surfing, skateboarding and beach volleyball have been cultivated in Southern California, so it's a definite way of life and very much a part of the San Diego culture. In this city, there are more lineups (groups of surfers waiting to catch waves for all you posers) in the water, than clouds in the sky. You'll also notice that the carefree attitude of the surfer crowd spills out from the ocean and in to town - and it's infectious, so roll with it!

With its great weather, miles of sandy beaches and major attractions, San Diego is known as one of the best tourist destinations. From thrilling ocean adventures to chilled-out siestas under the palm trees, this city has a way of schooling folks on a new way of life - one brimming with fun and beauty, among other things.

Located on the Pacific Ocean and with close proximity to Mexico, San Diego restaurants are recognized for and boast some of the West Coast's finest seafood and authentic Mexican fare. A number of other cuisines and dining options can also be discovered in the various neighborhoods throughout the city - spanning from Asian and Italian, to German and Californian Nuevo. So, whether you're craving a filet mignon or a fish taco, these journeyPod Picks will help you find a place to match your mood and style. Stay Classy San Diego!


Restaurants

Confidential Restaurant & Loft (Gaslamp District) - This hip downtown loft restaurant is simply cool by association to celebs, a locally renown chef and top DJs spinning into the wee hours. Located directly on the corner of Fourth & E. Street, the place has created a new hybrid for dining and entertainment since opening in '05. Winner of three Gaslamp Association Lamplighter Awards, Best Place to Stay and 11 Best of San Diego City Search Awards. A hybrid of an award winning restaurant and nightlife spot,Confidential features International tapas choices that have been inspired by the chef's desire for a total sensory satisfaction. No matter what you'll order, it won't disappoint - along with the fun signature cocktails like the Satsuma cosmopolitan and cactus flower margarita. The kitchen is open until 11 p.m. and the main dining room evolves into more of a lounge after the strike of midnight. Know this: the upstairs lounge may just seem off limits, but all it takes is a request to your server for an escort to a table above.

Roppongi (La Jolla) - Named after Tokyo's trendy nightclub district, Roppongi is a creative burst of "Asian fusion" done by San Diego's own wood-fired pizza mastermind, Sami Ledecki. His latest culinary adventure in Roppongi is nothing short of spectacular. From the stunning modern dining room complete with hi-tech light fixtures and the tropical fish tank, to an exciting fusion of Chinese, Korean and American fares, you can not go wrong in this place. But, be sure to leave room for dessert - the melt-in-your-mouth fantasy called "Chocolate Decadence" is heavenly! Just know, reservations are essential, especially at night and on weekends. When making your reservations, see if you can request the coveted booth (Table 11), which seats four next to the large tropical fish tank. Or table 22, another popular choice where comfy couches and a coffee table sit adjacent to the fireplace for a romantic setting. Roppongi is located at 875 Prospect St. (at Bishop Lane).

Jordan (Pacific Beach) - JRDN (pronounced "Jordan") at Tower 23 Hotel has officially earned its place among San Diego's hot spots. The chef, Victor Jimenez (also of Gringo's and Cendio) serves up eclectic American-Asian fusion in an indoor/outdoor setting. The hotel, which boasts numerous awards for architecture, service and food, sits directly in front of the Pacific Ocean, separated only by the boardwalk (people watching is as enjoyable as the fare.) Overall, JRDN features a very innovative menu and a creative chef - not to mention the hip and sexy atmosphere and the attentive service! We loved the fresh seafood dishes and the tender cuts of beef. The restaurant is located at 723 Felspar St. (at Garnet Ave.).

Jack's La Jolla (La Jolla) - This place has truly changed the culinary face of San Diego. With its three distinctive restaurants (ranging from casual to fine dining) and its four unique bars, this three-level complex (located in the Village at 7863 Girard and Wall St.) overlooks a center courtyard featuring a fire pit and fountain. Stylish and multifaceted, Jack's attracts well-heeled folks enjoying options like the casual-street level Sidewalk Cafe and atrium-level Jack's Grille (where you'll have your pick from paninis to salads and pastas). Or head upstairs to the Dining Room, Wall Street Bar and Living Room-Lounge (which serve up fare like foie gras, prime beef and prix fixe meals with wine pairings). Though some areas are casual, the top level of the restaurant has a dress code: Jackets for men and no jeans or hats. An unparalleled architectural and epicurean destination, Jack's La Jolla is sure to please.

The Strip Club (Gaslamp District) - Located in the southern part of downtown (340 5th Ave.), the place is named after the restaurant's signature "strip steak" - and is known as a cook-your-own steak joint. A perfect spot for drinks and late night dining, The Strip Club is more than just an eatery (no one comes here just to eat). This place is all about theater and entertainment, the gastronomic version of a Disneyland ride! Here you'll find music (from heavy metal to hard rock), football on the TV's and dozens of Emeril wannabes cooking their own dinner. The experience you'll have at Strip Club will be anything but ordinary.

Zenbu Sushi Bar & Restaurant (Gaslamp District) - Another one of the city's hot spots, Zenbu (which translates to "all" in Japanese) features Pacific Rim specialties and offers a traditional sushi bar experience, modern Asian cuisine and a happening bar scene. Owned and operated by local restaurateur Matt Rimel, Zenbu is the result of a lifelong passion for fishing and great food. Rimel also operates his own commercial fishing boat, which pulls much of the restaurant's fresh sushi and seafood. Zenbu attracts a great mix of well-to-do locals and young trendsetters to its tiered dining room and newly opened Zenbu Lounge - where folks can relax in an intimate setting as local DJs spin Thursday through Saturday nights. The lounge also features signature cocktails and late-night dining with Master Sushi Chef Tim Johnson. Zenbu is located at 7660 Fay Ave.

Chive (Gaslamp District) - An ultra-hip urban bistro with simple, dramatic space and contemporary fare presents a superior dining experience. Stepping into Chive feels like entering one of the lofts filled with modern interior lines expanding out to an outdoor patio where patrons can dine al fresco. The menu at Chive is eclectic California and urban cuisine, meets comfort food (think: panko-crusted mac and cheese, feta fries, and duck confit flatbread). The extraordinary selection of small plates will undoubtedly surprise and delight everyone's palate. The place also boasts a huge bar offering diverse cocktails (try the pomegranate mojito or the sour blueberry martinis). Located at 558 4th Ave. (at Market St.).

1500 Ocean (Coronado) - www.hoteldel.com The 1930's are sure to live on at the Hotel Del Coronado's restored Prince of Wales restaurant, 1500 Ocean. With spectacular Ocean views, indoor/outdoor seating, cabanas and an inventive menu (which changes seasonally), it's no surprise that this new signature restaurant is so famed. The menu is focused largely on flavors and seafood from the Southern California and Baja regions and offers such delights as pan-crisped Hawaiian red snapper and Port-braised short ribs. The wine selection (ask your server for a tour of the wine room, he or she will be happy to oblige on a slow night) and dessert doesn't disappoint either - the "trilogy" of molten-centered cake, a mouse and a soup of white chocolate and walnuts concludes any occasion celebrated at 1500 Ocean. Psst... If you chose to self park at the hotel (rather than valet), be sure to have the maitre'd validate your ticket and save you the extra $20. The restaurant is located at 1500 Orange Ave.

Laurel Restaurant & Bar (Banker's Hill) - Consistently ranked as one of the top fine dining experiences in San Diego, Laurel has recently been acquired by Tracy Borkum, owner of Kensington Grill, Chive and Urban Kitchen Catering. Together with Chef Brian O'Conner, Borkum will continue to offer a 1950's style dcor reminiscent of swinging London and hip Paris, while featuring comtemporary French and Mediterranean cuisine. Trendy couples and pre-theater folks often populate this landmark dining destination, enjoying shareable appetizers like the souffle-like torta Espanol and crispy soft-shell crabs. And, if you've still got room after the delicious lamb loin, try the "ice cream sandwich" to sweeten up your dining experience. The restaurant is located at 505 Laurel St (at Fifth Ave.).

Old Town Mexican Cafe (Old Town) - A legendary spot for authentic Mexican fare, this is one of San Diego's favorite restaurants (for nearly three decades), located in the heart of historic Old Town (the birthplace of San Diego). A no-frills eatery, you'll be captivated by the women inside making fresh tortillas - visible through the large picture window. Known for its warm tortillas, killer margaritas (choose from more than 100 different tequilas) and Mexican specialtie, every dish here is as colorful as a piñata (and just as good). Try the carnitas plate, steak Azteca or the chicken straight off the rotisserie - no matter what your choice - its all delicious! For those of you with a sweet tooth - try any of Old Town's tempting desserts. Old Town Mexican Cafe is located at 2489 San Diego Ave. (at Harney St.).

JSix Restaurant (Gaslamp District) - Adjacent to the new Hotel Solamar, the 175-seat Jsix Restaurant is a bustling gathering place, perfect for dinner with friends or sharing a glass of wine. JSix boasts an exotic, sensual ambiance, blending a number of different cultural influences that also mirror the diversity of this area. The menu features divine Coastal California cuisine, showcasing the freshest of seafood (try the tuna carpaccio served with cucumber relish, or the baked halibut, seared scallops and Dungeness crab) and subtle twists on new-American cuisine. A perfect compliment to the fare and the dining room, is Jbar - a 13,000 sq. ft. rooftop destination that's like a world of its own, with palm trees, private cabanas, fire pits and a 120-seat bar and grill (see below). JSix is located at 616 J St. (at 6th Ave.).

Crudo (Little Italy) - Offering a unique and elegant out-on-the-town experience, Crudo is the sexiest place to dine and dance the night away in the heart of San Diego's Little Italy. From its sleek tables to its spacious dance floor, Crudo is a place to see and be seen. It offers an exquisite and creative menu that merges the art of sushi with Italian culinary skills. Crudo also boasts an extensive Sake list. With a deep-set dance floor, full-length sushi bar and elevated VIP booths - Crudo remains the headlining hot spot for anything "after hours" and will surely exceed all your expectations! Crudo is located at 1953 India Street.

Island Prime (Downtown) - An excellent dining choice from famed chef Deborah Scott that offers outstanding views from Harbor Island and a nautical dcor. Island Prime's menu is filled with steaks and inventive dishes like lobster grilled cheese and lobster corn dogs. Doggie bags are also a must - not only because the portions are huge, but because no one wants to let even one bite go to waste! Check out the adjacent C-Level Lounge, a bistro-style restaurant that has a less-expensive menu and lots of fun cocktails like Skyline, a Chambord, raspberry vodka and champagne potion. C-Level offers a gorgeous outdoor heated patio that overlooks the city skyline. Island Prime is located at 880 Harbor Island Dr.

Addison at the Grand Del Mar (Del Mar Heights) - Named for Addison Mizner, whose architectural style launched the Florida Renaissance in the 20's, Addison raises the bar for dining in San Diego with Executive Chef William Bradley's classic, artisanal approach to cooking. Tucked away in Del Mar Heights, the restaurant's many inlets and dining spaces boast sweeping arches, rod iron, rustic tiled floors and deep, rich woods (you'll find wood-beamed ceilings, four indoor fireplaces, a library lounge, patio dining and sweeping golf course panoramas). The most unique feature here is the Chef's Table, which provides private parties with an intimate, behind-the-scenes dining experience hosted personally by Bradley (precisely what we at journeyPod love!). A TV with a live feed in the kitchen allows restaurant guests to observe the food preparation of their custom meal. The restaurant has a 2,500-bottle wine room and is located at 5200 Grand Del Mar Way.

Parallel 33 (Mission Hill) - For those of you who are geography buffs, you may recognize the connections between San Diego, Morocco, Lebanon, India, China and Japan - they all lie on the earth's 33rd parallel. This commonality is translated into an impressively global-inspired kitchen - fusing the exotic flavors native to each of these regions at Parallel 33. Inside the dining space, you'll notice the mixture of cultures in the ornate dcor (especially in the details and color) and with its exquisit menu, you'll get a taste of Middle Eastern spice, Asian preparation and European elegance in whatever you decide to savor. Reservations are recommended (several days in advance) and make sure you dress to impress when you arrive - Parallel 33 is trendy. It's also home to the Blue Lotus Lounge - a sophisticated bar and nightclub within an elegant space. This hotspot is located at 741 West Washington St. (bet. Eagle and Falcon Sts.).

Cafe Sevilla (Downtown) - Feel like a trip to Spain? Head on over to Cafe Sevilla and safe yourself the airfare! The place has been dedicated to providing visitors with the essence of Spanish culture, authentic cuisine and ambience since the late 80's - whether with its Tapas Bar, the award-winning casually elegant restaurant (upstairs) or the nightclub (downstairs) that offers salsa dancing each and every night. Cafe Sevilla also offers three different dinner shows (Flamenco, Tango or Salsa) on the weekends and live Spanish Flamenco and Rumba Guitarists at the Tapas Bar 7 days a week. Oh, and for those who needs a little help on the dance floor, free lessons are available four nights a week. Cafe Sevilla is located at 555 Fourth Ave. (between Market and Island Aves.).

The Cottage Restaurant (La Jolla) - Looking for the best brunch in the city? Run, don't walk to The Cottage. A cozy restaurant known for its California-style breakfasts, this sunny-yellow eatery is surrounded by a white fence on a quiet corner just off La Jolla's main shopping avenue. Specialties here include the strawberry-stuffed French toast, eggs benedict and tuna melts. If you're in the mood for seafood - the lobster omelet is solid too. We particularly love the complimentary coffee that's served while you wait for a table. The Cottage is located at 7702 Fay Ave. (at Kline St.).

Valentine's - Family owned & operated since 1982, this amazing Mexican spot has several locations throughout the city - each of which is a one-stop shop for the freshest Mexican food ever! For those of you with an appetite, the "Santa Fe" burritos are the size of your head (best burritos in town); for those of you with smaller appetites, Valentine's chicken soup and rolled tacos always hit the spot. The restaurant serves breakfast all day and into the night - making it a great stop after the night on the town.


Bars & Nightlife

San Diego's nightlife heats up after dark. From casual seaside nightspots to upscale dance clubs, there are a number of great places to unwind or to get your night sizzling. Sports bars, beach bars, trendy hotspots or dive bars - whatever you decide on, a frosty margarita, icy martini or cold cerveza will be waiting to invigorate.

For most, downtown's historic Gaslamp Quarter (a 16 block historic neighborhood) is usually the destination of choice since its San Diego's entertainment hub - featuring nearly 40 nightspots, close to 100 top-notch restaurants, live theaters, art galleries, world-class shopping and rooftop lounges with spectacular views of the city. For others, the alternative options are at beach bars, live entertainment centers and dive bars throughout the other neighborhoods that specialize in SoCal kitschiness!

So, whether you're interested in savoring the sights, smells and flavors of San Diego's eateries or shakin' what yo mama gave ya' at the trendiest hotspots, journeyPod has some choices for you:

Onyx Room (Gaslamp District) - Accredited with the revival of the "Classic Cocktail", this distinguished cocktail lounge and nightclub spot in downtown not only features live entertainment, but also boasts one of the most energetic clubs in the city. When you arrive, you'll find a steep dark staircase that leads you to this two-part basement destination (the allure here has been "find us if you can" - there's little signage) - a well-coifed 30-something crowd listening to jazz musicians or hip-hop and house DJ's on a small stage on one side, or a well-manicured group on the other boasting a supper-club feel. Try their famous Onyx Red Apple Martini or the Jack and Coke served in a prohibition-style coffee mug. Onyx Room is located at 852 Fifth Ave. (at E St.).

Thin (Gaslamp District)- Like some vision of a futuristic spacecraft, the stainless steel walls and silver interior of Thin invoke images of a quiet sterile environment - until, of course, the DJ gets started! That's when you'll find the long, narrow lounge filled with a spectrum of dancers amidst the sheer white curtains, futon-style couches, large video screens broadcasting dancing silhouettes or short movies and cuts from 80's top hits. Keep in mind that the dress code is strictly enforced, so now's the time to break out the Gucci and put away the Nikes. Thin is operated in tandem with its downstairs neighbor, a roaring 20's-style cousin, Onyx. Know this: on Friday and Saturday nights, the cover charge will get you into both clubs.

Bar Dynamite (Middletown) - Looking for a great mix of people and music without the glam? Bar Dyanmite is an offbeat alternative to the downtown and PB club scenes, featuring DJ's that spin hip-hop, dance, pop and reggae tracks nightly at the Mission Hills bar/club destination. Set in an area west of Hillcrest, known at Middletown, Bar Dynamite occupies a secluded location that draws a crowd that's higher on edge and lower on swank than most of the Gaslamp District hot spots. From the moment you walk in, you know that it's going to be a fun night! Plan to stay at Bar Dynamite all night - once the party starts, early evening coversations turn into one thumping mass of movin' and groovin' in the center of the dancefloor. Bar Dynamite is located at 1808 W Washington St.

Lei Lounge (University Heights) - Think: sexy, chic Manhattan-Bistro, meets "Hawaii Five-O" - Lei Lounge is a beach-chic luau lounge that brings the tropics to North Park with island-inspired tapas, coladas and VIP cabanas. Formerly a long-vacant storefront, 4622 Park Blvd (at Madison Ave.) has been transformed into a sensory-pleasing open-air restaurant, where trendsetters (dress to impress) sip cocktails and local socialites surround the luau-esque fire pits while nibbling on pan-Asian, Caribbean and tropical-inspired tapas (try the shrimp mango rolls with hot and sour mustard). White drapes surround all of the private cabanas - that are also outfitted with flat-panel monitors and LED mood lighting. Try one of Lei Lounges eye-candy's, such as their signature concoctions called Greentinis, Vanilla Berry Mojitos and Gorgeous Geishas.

Stingaree (Gaslamp District) - Located Downtown, Stingaree is a state-of-the-art triple threat (restaurant, nightclub and rooftop bar under one roof), boasting the ultimate blend of high-style. Stingaree offers rooftop cabanas, fire pits and an exclusive VIP vibe that brings sizzling Miami and Las Vegas-style nightlife to the heart of San Diego. Though most don't come here for the food, a dinner menu is available (try the truffle parm fries, shrimp ceviche or the Kobe beef). Stingaree was voted for Best Ambiance 2006 and Best Nightclub 2006 by the Gaslamp Quarter Association, Lamplighter Awards. Psst... spring for bottle service in one of the rooftop cabanas - it'll be your best shot to rob elbows with a celeb or two. Oh, and remember - you can avoid the $20 cover and long lines around the block if you make dinner reservations, and there is a dress code. Stingaree is located at 454 Sixth Ave. (at Island Ave.).

Beach Bar (Downtown) - The W Hotel's trendy rooftop bar brings the beach (with sand n' all) into the heart of downtown. Offering sun in the day and play at night, Beach boasts three cabanas, a fire pit and heated sand - not your ordinary rooftop bar. A grand staircase from the hotel lobby (which morphs into this hot spot when the sun sets) leads up to this outdoor oasis on the 3rd floor. Light techno also makes its way up the volume notch as the night wears on...Remember: a line starts forming at 10:30 p.m. on the weeknds, so get there early if you can. And psst... there's never a cover!  Beach is located at 421 West B St. (at State St.).

Martini Ranch (Downtown) - Want to get shaken, not stirred? You're surely to find a martini here for you. Whether you're old school and prefer the class with gin or vodka, or maybe you want to break tradition and try one of Martini Ranch's 50 handblended choices, chances are - you've never seen one made like this! This multi-level venue will entertain all its guests with the twin 10 ft. HD projection televisions (playing the days games, classic clips of favorite movies and the latest music videos.). Martini Ranch is located at 528 F. St.

The Casbah (Pacific Beach) - Located at 2501 Kettner Blvd., The Casbah has hosted such bands as Nirvana, Smashing Pumpkins, Lemonheads, along with Alanis Morissette and Liz Phair - from the moment they opened in 1989. The Casbah features an enclosed smoking patio, a back room with pool tables, pinball, and a state-of-the-art sound system. Half indoors, half out, The Casbah isn't just for live music enthusiasts, the nightspot plays a mixture of blues, funk and reggae. Know this: Anything goes!

On Broadway (Downtown) - This high-energy venue features top international DJ's who spin today's hottest dance music, hip hop, house, electronica and more. Located (at 615 Broadway) in a downtown bank building (built circa 1920) and boasting grand arched windows, brass ceilings, marble floors, a phenomenal light system, and a flashy well-heeled crowd. Multiple themed rooms and lounges can accommodate just about anyone - even those who don't feel like dancing. Remember... the building used to be a bank; the basement vault now houses the club's billiard lounge. A high-cover, tight dress code, and expensive drinks make for a hot night out with friends and a haven for all kinds of occasions. Just make sure to arrive early - the line can take awhile. If you're eating at their marvelous Zen Cafee, admission to the club is free. The club is located at 615 Broadway (at 6th Ave.).

Typhoon Saloon (Pacific Beach) - At over 11,000 square feet with four levels and a 500-plus-person capacity, Typhoon Saloon is the biggest and most well-rounded dance club in Pacific beach - providing an ultimate venue for a night of excitement with drinking, dancing and pure fun. The state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems set the scene for a memorable evening of people watching on the balcony, shooting pool in the lounge or joining the crowd of hipsters on the dancefloor. The music at Typhoon Saloon includes '80s flashbacks and live bands covering top 40 tunes from hip-hop to hard metal. Though each level of this hotspot boasts full bars, the biggest draw of this friendly meat market is the easy-going staff and bouncers. Typhoon Saloon is located at 1165 Garnet Ave.

Side Bar (Gaslamp District) - An oasis of smooth beats, good vibes and smart conversation is the scene at Side Bar - the city's best place to be when you're craving both big-city style and intimate substance. Housed in a classic Gaslamp building on 536 Market St., Side Bar combines post-Victorian cachet with contemporary dcor, retro furniture with video artwork. Some might think that these furnishings, along with plasma TV's and digital sound systems would be out of place in this 1882 brick n' mortar venue, but they'd surely be pleasantly surprised. At this swanky lounge, there's also no shortage of thirst-quenching cocktails that are mixed as artfully as the sound - try the Appletini mixed with fresh apple juice or the Key Lime Pie. Also, feel free to throw in some tapas and Bronx-style pizza straight outta NYC (from where the two owners, James Brennan and Demien Farrel both hail) to complete the night out.

JBar (East Village) - One of the best places to enjoy outdoor drinks and the warm San Diego weather, this downtown venue is located in one of the city's newest boutique hotel offerings - Hotel Solamar. The hotel's 4th floor rooftop deck overlooks downtown and the bay, features a pool and ample room for lounging and socializing. JBar allows guests to spend the day relaxing and enjoying the city's warm weather by day and high-energy crowd by night. A row of cabanas that line the chic pool, are a perfect spot to indulge in the venue's signature cocktails. JSix is the popular restaurant within the same hotel that's known for its exquisite Californian cuisine (see above). JBar is located at 616 J Street (at 6th Ave.).

Basic Urban Kitchen and Bar (East Village) - Looking for a local watering hole that's still trendy and cool? Check out Basic Urban Kitchen and Bar - a minimalist East Village hot spot that combines chic, urban loft design, with a comfy, neighborhood vibe. Once you arrive here, you'll be greeted with three large, glass doors that open into the spacious warehouse-turned-hipster hangout. Industrial track lighting lines the 20-foot ceilings, from which sheer panels hang to separate the lounge and bar areas. Here you'll find friendly local villagers that pack the place, particularly during Happy Hour, or pre-Padres game to chow down on square pizzas and locally brewed beers. Just remember: since its one block from Petco, arrive well before the first pitch on game days! Basic Urban is located at 410 10th Ave. (at J St.).

Belo (Gaslamp Quarter) - Downtown's newest underground nightspot is Belo (you get it???) - a 60's inspired venue with anemone lights and silver beaded curtains. The club's 20,000 ft. bulk is split into three massive rooms - red, orange and green (the latter flaunts renowned DJ's like Stretch Armstrong, DJ AM and Good Charlotte's Benji Madden). Unlike most other large nightclub venues, Belo spans just one floor and features two rooms of music, retro and post-modern decor, and pull-out-all-the-stops VIP service. If you're looking to get pampered - the place offers two VIP rooms, 15 VIP booths and the obligatory bottle service. A full menu is also available - and the dishes are as colorful as the dcor. Try the ahi tuna with watermelon and red pepper salad, or the spicy queso tempuras - all of which is served from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. Belo is located at 919 Fourth Ave.

Altitude Skybar (Gaslamp District) - Join the young and fabulous at one of Gaslamp's loftiest hot spots, an open-air bar 22 stories above the city and the Coronado Bridge - creating an almost surreal experience. This is the only place where you'll find the views more attractive than the beautiful people who congregate here. A trendy cross-population of local scenesters and hotel guests frequent this rooftop destination, located on the 22nd floor of the Gaslamp Marriott hotel (located at 660 K St., at 6th Ave.). Boasting a spacious, vine-covered lounge area, garden dcor and a lighted waterfall, the crowds here often gather around the city's largest firepit, and the dancefloor varies in activity based on the music that's playing. For all you Padres fans - if there's a game at Petco Park that night, you can actually see the action from one of the bar stools that overlook the stadium.

Airport Lounge (Little Italy) - Looking for a first-class destination that'll ensure a lofty flight? Head on over to Airport Lounge (formerly a guest-list only venue), which maintains an air of exclusivity. On that note, journeyPod jet-Setters are strongly encouraged to reserve a table several days in advance, since there isn't much standing room without one. Inside, the Airport Lounge wields a bright white and contemporary décor, a computerized lighting system that even projects false airplane windows through which clouds peacefully drift. In vein with the theme, bartenders resemble stylish pilots, while cocktail servers don sexy gear of retro flight attendants. Most striking though, are the orange tarmac-worker jumpsuits that are worn by the bar backs. The lounge offers a sizeable appetizer menu, featuring themed dishes such as "Brie Layover" and "British Airways Asparagus". Airport Lounge is located at 2400 India St.

Top of the Hyatt (Downtown) - Talk about a knockout view! In a city with no shortage of amazing beaches and inspiring vantage points, San Diego isn't running low on places to catch an amazing view of the breathtaking sunset (particularly from our list), but the city's finest destination is the Top of the Hyatt - which rests comfortably 40 stories high up in the Southern CA sky. Located in the Manchester Grand Hyatt (at 1 Market Pl.), the floor to ceiling windows offer guests a bird's eye view of the bay, Seaport Village, Coronado, Point Loma and Lindbergh Field to the west; and the urban-sprawl panorama to the east (which naturally, is a lot more picturesque after the sun sets. With luxurious seating, plush furnishings and a great view, Top of the Hyatt is an ideal spot to get your night started (try the Cosmo or the impressive Black Martini). Top of the Hyatt also offers a small menu of appetizer choices (try the crab dip).

Shout outs to Jamie, Veronica, and Kate!!!