While San Diego brags perfect weather nearly all year long, blue skies and warmer days signify the start of spring. Yes, that means it’s time to leave winter hibernation and step in to all the incredibly delicious spring happenings this city has to offer. From a roster of new eateries to discover to locally loved outdoor adventures, check out some can’t-miss happenings.
Foodie Spots to Discover This Spring
Dockside Fish Pop-Up at the Tuna Dockside Harbor:
San Diego is known for it’s seafood scene, and what better way to experience it than from the source? On Saturday mornings, step into the world of San Diego’s fishermen at Tuna Dockside Harbor while chowing down on some of the city’s most talked about seafood bites. Chef Marcus Twilegar cooks up catch straight from the Dockside fishermen, transforming the catch into dishes like fresh uni + garlic rice, grilled spiny lobster, ahi poke bowls, swordfish belly skewers, and more. No snoozing allowed! Chef Marcus pops up from 8:00 am to sold out – which happens every week.
This spot is more than just a wine bar, it’s a place to gather with the San Diego community. Not only does Dorthy’s feature a selection of delicious sips and scrumptious array of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, they also host events for the community including yoga, painting, wine tasting, speed dating, and beyond!
Barrio Logan’s newest addition is a blend of Mexican and Japanese cuisines paired with organic wine and low-ABV cocktails. (And the aesthetic? Just wow.) Dubbing themselves “a new kind of cocktail bar,” Jaguar Paw offers an array of small plates and tapas and a distinctive drinking experience that’s perfect for unwinding after work or a unique night out.
Chef Tara Monsod – 2024 + 2025 James Beard Award Finalist – takes on French cuisine at Puffer Malarky’s newest project, Le Coq. While we’ll never stop drooling over their normal dinner service, Late Night at Le Coq is our latest obsession. Every Friday and Saturday from 10:00 pm to close, get groovy with a vinyl DJ set and special happy hour menu at the bar featuring Chef Tara’s latest (delicious) creations – the Le Coq Classic Burger and Dirty Burger.
Nestled in the heart of Luecadia, Leu Leu is one of San Diego’s hottest new eateries. Headed by award-winning Chef Claudette Zeppeda, the menu is inspired by Mediterranean, Moroccan, Mexican, and Asian flavors with vibes as magical and adventurous as she is.
In the mood for a sweet treat? Check out East Villages newest dessert dig. Milk and Cookies specializes in just that – cookies and ice cream, of course. With a variety of flavors ranging from cult classics to out of the box creations, there is something for everyone.
Already making waves on social media, Origen opened it’s doors in Hillcrest just last month. Led by Chef Tomas Fernandez Cortina, the menu embodies Mexican cuisine with a contemporary twist. Their mission? To create a cultural experience where flavors tell stories, every meal is shared, and the essence of the coast meets the soul of tradition.
Chef Eric Bost, John Resnick, and Boulanger James Belisle have teamed up to create this all-day cafe, bakery, bar and restaurant located in Carlsbad. During traditional business hours, Wildland offers a more casual atmosphere before transforming to a table service dining experience.
Local Spring Adventures
The Flower Fields in Carlsbad:
A quintessential San Diego spring happening, The Flower Fields at Carlsbad boass some of the most stunning views and Instagrammable moments. With over 55 acres of beautiful blooming flowers, this annual experience is one you won’t want to miss. Plus, in just the next town over are some of our favorite local eateries – The Plot, Wrench & Rodent, Valle, Herb & Sea, Little Fox Cups + Cones – for you to continue the fun!
U-Pick Strawberries at Carlsbad Strawberry Company:
It’s officially strawberry season which means the U-Pick Strawberries experience at Carlsbad Strawberry Company is back! Enjoy a sunny afternoon picking up the season’s freshest strawberries and get inspired to create something delicious at home like Chef Zuzu’s Strawberry Oatmeal Bars.
