09 3 / 2009
Adventures in Consumption
So, I live in a new area of San Diego now. Arguably, the best area of San Diego. Culture, art, fantastic food, eccentricity, entertainment, activity, convenience. Being in Banker’s Hill means being close to Hillcrest, Downtown, North Park, Balboa Park, the airport, Mission Hills, Fashion Valley, etc. And it means having so much good food to choose from.
Lately, we’ve been exploring different restaurants. I’m addicted to doing lengthy reviews on Yelp, but here’s a quick rundown of some of the places we’ve tried.
Bite calls themselves a Modern California Bistro, I call them delicious. A variety of “small plates” or tapas, entrees and desserts - and everything we tried was fantastic. Great atmosphere, price, and location, will definitely be back.
Mama Testa is a taqueria on University in Hillcrest (right next door to Bite actually) that serves some fantastic stew tacos, a great salsa bar, and the best guacamole I’ve ever eaten.
Jimmy Carter’s Mexican Cafe is right across the street from our loft. We had a fantastic breakfast here that included traditional American food and an appetizer of decent guac. We’ll be back because it’s convenient, and also because they had such good Hollandaise. I’m a sucker for good Hollandaise.
Not just a place for men to pick up hairy men, Brian’s American Eatery is a good place for late night breakfast food and diner food. Been here several times and I’ve enjoyed everything I’ve eaten. The pancakes are great and the skillets are also decent. Very casual, laid back atmosphere that’s great for people watching.
Which Wich is a make your own sandwich chain with one (soon to be 2) locations in San Diego. It was really delicious with tons and tons of options for normal or “creative” sandwiches. Nice for a quick lunch.
There’s a reason Cafe Bassam is one of the best reviewed coffeehouses on Yelp. There, I had some of the best chai tea I’ve ever had. Luke had a “Dark Hot Chocolate” that tasted like liquid heaven. They have dozens and dozens of flavors of authentic loose tea that they’ll brew for you. I can see lots of my time spent at Cafe Bassam in the future, especially since it’s a block away.
