BREAKFAST: influx cafe in Golden Hill for the bowl of yogurt, house-made granola (and deliciously fresh berries) and a soy latte, then a stroll through the botanical gardens at Balboa Park.

LUNCH: Head over to North Park to farm-to-table eatery The Linkery to try the portobello burger, grilled green beans, and a local brew, with perhaps a mid afternoon visit to The Daily Scoop. (They have champagne sorbet, people.)

DINNER: Definitely El Camino for the food and scenery. The sopa de fideo, rajas tacos, and chips + dip are excellent, and this place is fully equipped with Mexi bling including the glowing Virgin Mary and Jesus wall and murals by one of my favorite local artists Tocayo.

BAR: If you can convince me to leave, I’d head over to Toronado. Bring someone who knows beer or be prepared to sample because it’s all about the beer. Drink it, talk about it, and make some friends.