School is out and summer has officially started! While your friends splurge on stressful getaways and less-than-tranquil trips, save some serious dough (and your sanity) this season by indulging in a spectacular San Diego Staycation. With outstanding ocean and city views, historic hotspots, specialty shops and an irresistibly relaxed atmosphere, Shelter Island is the perfect place to escape to without ever leaving town. Grab your guidebook, tap into your inner tourist and while you’re there, explore these exceptional eateries.
4990 North Harbor Drive
San Diego, CA 92106
619-226-2103
http://www.j-fat.com/
Torn between the coziness of a mountain lodge and the enticingly cool breezes of a seaside getaway? Experience the best of both worlds at JFAT. Enjoy the spectacular scenery of America’s Cup Harbor, while settling into the warm woodsy feel of dark paneled walls and flickering fire pits on their patio. Then, once you’ve found that perfect spot to relax, savor menu favorites from surf to turf, including the Cast Iron Skillet Roasted Seabass or the Prime Rib Dip with Gruyere cheese, caramelized onions and horseradish cream. For an extra dose of comfort, sample their scrumptious ice cream sundae.
2725 Shelter Island Dr.
San Diego, CA 92106
619-435-4166
http://www.brigantine.com/brigantine_seafood/
“The Brig,” as it’s known by locals, is the premier pick when it comes to dining with family and friends. This second-floor space features a horseshoe-shaped bar, walls of windows and prime patio seating. Plus, the menu includes plenty of goods for grownups and choices for children. For an outrageously authentic experience, feast on their Classic Fish Tacos—white fish fillet, cabbage, salsa fresca and cheddar cheese topped off with ranch dressing and wrapped in corn tortillas.
2907 Shelter Island Dr. #108
San Diego, 92106
619-758-9325
http://www.thewinepubsd.com/
Yearning for a European adventure? Intimate and inviting, the Wine Pub’s interior invokes the quaint charm of a café in Capri while the secluded patio seating is adorably akin to an alfresco dining experience in Madrid. Their vast selection of wines will have you whisked around the world before you can say “Salud.” Plus, with monthly wine classes, weekly live music and daily specials, there’s always an exciting avenue to explore. Try the Stuffed Portobellinis with sausage, roasted artichoke hearts and homemade breadcrumbs for an Italian-inspired delicacy.
2912 Shelter Island Drive
San Diego, CA 92106
619-224-2401
http://www.brigantine.com/miguels_cocina/index.html
Just because you choose to dine domestically doesn’t mean your palate can’t venture out. Spice up your summer at Miguel’s Cocina, a one-stop-shop for south-of-the-border flavors, fiestas and fanfare. Savor seafood Ceviche on the marina-view patio or chow down on Camarones Jalisco − featuring bacon-wrapped jumbo shrimp stuffed with jack cheese – in one of their festively dressed up dining rooms. The enticingly ethnic Enchiladas Suizas will have you tipping your sombrero to the chef.
This summer, swap your suitcases for silverware and let a Shelter Island Staycation take your taste buds on a culinary tour—no passport required.
