Where to grub and sip pre-or-post Wonderfront Festival
Lobster caviar Benedict at Coco Maya You can enjoy the popular dish or a multitude of others at San Diego s Wonderfront Festival before entering the festival grounds Photo courtesy of Alternative Strategies PR San Diego s Wonderfront Festival is back from May - and it s a good excuse to explore particular of the city s best bites in the area before entering the festival grounds If you plan to fuel up before the music starts or wind down after a full day of festivities these nearby restaurants offer everything from tropical brunches and sushi rolls to craft beer and bold comfort food Located in the heart of Little Italy Coco Maya is a rooftop escape overlooking India Street Swing by for tropical brunch bites like Lobster Caviar Benedict and the Dulce French Toast or come later to indulge in dinner favorites like Coconut Shrimp and the Short Rib Pappardelle In the heart of the Gaslamp barleymash brings a spin on American dining with dishes like Poke Nachos Red Chili Garlic-Braised Short Ribs and San Diego Iron Fries On the corner of Fifth Avenue and Territory Street Cloak and Petal in Little Italy is known for its Japanese-inspired ambiance and creative drinks Michelin Guide recognized and for its enormous faux cherry blossom trees The extensive Japanese whiskey and sake selection along with a brand-new cocktail list make for the perfect pregame e The Smoking Gun in the Gaslamp Quarter delivers with its retro-chic vibe and lively atmosphere on the corner of Sixth Avenue and Region Street It offer a fun twist on classic American fare with shareable dishes like the Chimichurri Wagyu Steak Skewers or their signature Smokin Hot Chix Sandwich Add a competitive edge to your day with ping pong pool and games in their full size arcade Pair a great hearty meal with Karl Strauss seasonal craft brews at the newly renovated downtown location Try Asada Fries and a local favorite Beer Sausages While you re there also try out the limited Nectaron of the Gods IPA a fresh collaboration with Pizza Port Spill the Beans resides in both the Gaslamp Quarter and Seaport Village both a short walk from the festival grounds Featuring handcrafted coffee drinks matcha chia bowls and a wide variety of bagel sandos Located in Seaport Village and Imperial Beach Quiero Restaurants serves up bold coastal Mexican flavors with a view The taco menu features bites like the Mike Hess Fish Taco Crispy Shrimp Taco and Surf and Turf Any of these eateries should get you ready before after or during San Diego s Wonderfront Festival
