San DIego – Page 2

Top Things To Do For Mother’s Day in San Diego

May 2, 2016 by Danielle

Looking to shower mom with love and a delicious meal on Mother’s Day? Check out these great local eats perfect for Mom and the whole family! From Coronado, to Downtown San Diego, to Del Mar, Mother’s Day is covered! And if you need gift ideas, scroll down to the bottom for some great suggestions.

If you decide to go to our pick this year – the Westgate Hotel Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch – then make sure to head right around the corner to The Headquarters afterwards for some great shopping and entertainment!

Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch at the Westgate Hotel
Served in the hotel’s beautiful Fontainebleau and Versailles Salons, the Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch at the Westgate Hotel will feature made to-order-omelets, fresh seafood, gourmet plates, carving and crepe stations, baked breads, pastries and a variety of gourmet desserts. In addition to the delightful unlimited feast, the Imperial Bar will serve freshly squeezed juices and endless champagne, mimosas, Bloody Marys and margaritas. Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch reservations can be made by calling 619-557-3655.
Price: $79 for adults and $39.50 for children under 12 (plus tax and gratuity).
Location: 1055 Second Avenue San Diego, CA 92101
Website

Brunch at Mister A’s
Enjoy brunch at Mister A’s, which is just minutes from Downtown and features beautiful views. Entrees include Buttermilk Fried “Chicken And Waffles” or Eggs Benedict With Fresh Crab Meat Or Pork Belly.
Price: $64.50 per person, gratuity of 20% will be added to all checks
Location: 2550 Fifth Avenue Twelfth Floor, San Diego, CA 92103
Website

Brunch at Hotel Del Coronado
An elegant brunch with live musical entertainment, a rose for each mom that attends and a children’s buffet. MENU
Price: $120 for adults and$45 for children ages 6-10 in the Crown Room, $110 for adults and $43 for children ages 6-10 in the Ballroom. Children 5 and under eat free with paying adult.
Location: 1500 Orange Ave Coronado, CA 92118
Website

Dining at Blue Point Coastal Cuisine
A limited menu will be served from from 1 – 5pm. Moms ordering from this menu will eat for free!
Price: varies, you can view the menu HERE, Moms ordering from this limited menu will enjoy their entrée for FREE!
Location: 565 Fifth Avenue, San Diego, CA Gaslamp Quarter
Website

SEA180°’s Mother’s Day Champagne Buffet Brunch
Champagne Buffet Brunch with omelets, a pancake station, a prime rib carving station and more. MENU
Price: $64.95 adults, $12.95 kids 6-12 and kids under 6 are free
Location: 800 Seacoast Dr Imperial Beach, CA
Website

The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch
Mother’s Day is the last day to experience the beautiful Flower Fields this season.
Price: $14.00 for Adults, $13.00 for Seniors 60+, $7.00 for Children 3-10, Children 2 and under are free
Location: 5704 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92008
Website

Mother’s Day at Rancho Bernardo Inn
Dine at the beautiful Rancho Bernardo Inn, featuring different menus throughout the day. Three different restaurants and menus: Veranda Fireside Lounge & Restaurant | Avant | Aragon Ballroom
Price: Varies
Location: 17550 Bernardo Oaks Dr., San Diego, CA 92128
Website

Hornblower Mother’s Day Cruise
Enjoy being on the water in beautiful San Diego. Two different cruises to choose from: Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch with Live Jazz or Mother’s Day Sunset Dinner Cruise. Menus: Brunch Buffet Menu, Buffet Menu or Dinner Menu
Price: Varies, depending on cruise
Location: San Diego Grape St. Pier 1800 N. Harbor Dr
Website

Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet at The Shores
Enjoy an oceanfront buffet with your Mom! Menu includes American Cheeses, Tri-Color Orzo and Artichoke Salad, Roasted Angus Top Sirloin, desserts, and a children’s station. MENU
Price: $52/person, $26 children 6-12, $4 per year children 5 and under
Location: 8110 Camino Del Oro La Jolla, CA 92037
Website

Mother’s Day Brunch Cruise
Gourmet buffet, live music and beautiful San Diego views while aboard one of the vessels of the Flagship Cruises and Events fleet. Featuring an omelet station, carving station, taco bar & more
Price: $74.50/Adult, $44.70/Child 4-12 yrs
Location: 990 North Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101
Website

Brunch at Top Of The Market
Enjoy beautiful views at one of San Diego’s finest restaurants. Entrees include Steak and Eggs, Free Range Eggs Benedict with Blue Lump Crab Cakes and Smoked Salmon Scramble Omelet.
Price: Prices vary, see MENU
Location: 750 North Harbor Drive San Diego, CA 92101
Website

Mother’s Day Dining at The Grand Del Mar
Brunch at The Clubhouse Grill (10:00 am – 4:00 pm) – $42 per person, includes coffee and tea MENU
Champagne Brunch in the Elizabeth Ballroom (10:00 am – 2:00 pm) – $108 per adult | $30 per child (ages 4 – 12) MENU
Dining at Amaya (Brunch: 11:30 am – 4:00 pm Dinner: 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm) – $75 per person | Children’s buffet, $30 (ages 4 – 12)
Afternoon Tea and Bubbly (2:00 pm – 4:00 pm) – $50 per person
Location: 5300 Grand Del Mar Court, San Diego, CA 92130
Website

Mother’s Day Run
Run with Mom! This 5k and 10k benefits the San Diego Rescue Mission
Price: Entry fees vary. Register HERE
Location: 3000 N Mission Bay Dr. San Diego, CA 92109
Website

Mother’s Day Brunch with Shamu
Enjoy brunch inside Sea World, with a french crepe station, omelet station, french toast, bagels and much more!
Price: This special brunch is $55.00 for ages 10+ and $27.00 for ages 3-9 (Park admission is required & not included in this price)
Location: Sea World, San Diego
Website

Mother’s Day Brunch at Fleming’s Steakhouse
Enjoy delicious entrees such as Baked Brioche French Toast, Prime Rib with a Trio of Sauces, Porcini-Crusted Filet Mignon and more!
Price: $39.95 for adults and $18.95 for kids
Location: La Jolla (8970 University Center Lane, San Diego, CA 92122) and San Diego (380 K Street, San Diego, CA 92101)
Website

Mother’s Day Brunch at Eddie V’s
From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., treat Mom to a decadent three-course brunch with standout menu items including an Alaskan King Crab omelet, lobster quiche Florentine, pan seared steak and eggs, and house baked fresh cinnamon rolls. Raise a glass with classic mimosas, Bellini’s or Bloody Marys.
Price: $49 for adults, $15 for kids
Location:
Website

Mother’s Day Brunch at Season’s 52
The newly introduced brunch features seasonal favorites like a vegetable frittata with roasted red peppers, mushrooms and grilled asparagus, a brick oven brioche French toast with blueberry infused syrup, and a Shakshuka with chorizo and crumbled feta. Sit out on the newly redone patio to enjoy the beautiful San Diego sunshine.
Price: varies
Location:
Website

Gifts She’ll Love:

For the foodie: You can’t go wrong with chocolates and cheese. Dallmann’s Fine Chocolates offers a Wine & Chocolate pairing box with locally made chocolates selected to pair perfectly with red and white wines ($20), while Venissimo Cheese has a huge selection of cheese from around the world as well as beautiful cheese supplies like this olivewood board and knife perfect for the hostess ($65).
For the art lover: Aaron Chang’s world renowned 12×12 prints of San Diego scenery, tropical landscapes and beautiful orchids make a memorable gift at a great price ($150).
For the fashionista: From Free People to Dolce Vita and everything in between, Madison San Diego is a great spot to find tops, shoes, bags and jewelry. Top picks include these gold Brighton necklaces ($78) and bright Hobo clutches ($110).
For the book worm: Geppetto’s has a number of customizable books for little ones to surprise Mom and Grandma with including “What I Love About Mom” ($10) and “Grandma is a Super Hero” ($10). In addition to being a great shop for beautiful cards and gift wrap, Seaside Paper has a fun “Q&A a Day for Moms” journal to fill out over the course of five years – as the journal fills, it becomes a loving capsule of memories ($16.95).

What are your Mother’s Day plans?

Filed Under: Events, Holidays, Mother's Day, Restaurants, San Diego, Uncategorized Tagged With: Brunch in San Diego, gifts for mother's day, Mother's Day, Mother's Day Brunch, Mother’s Day gift, San DIego, San Diego Activities, San Diego Events

Mother’s Day Brunch at The Westgate Hotel

April 27, 2016 by Danielle

I have a confession to make. I love brunch. Like absolutely love it. From the amazing food to the day drinking to the ambiance, brunch was made for me. And I may or may not have shared that love with my five year old daughter. Sans the day drinking, of course! So when I was invited to come out to The Westgate Hotel and indulge a little in an amazing meal I couldn’t say no! And what better time than right before Mother’s Day?

I don’t know about you, but the only thing I ask for on Mother’s Day is for my family to take me out to brunch and to have a clean house that day. Simple things. But this brunch? Wow. I invited my mother-in-law and my daughter (of course) and it knocked our socks off. I would truly feel honored if my family took me here to treat me on Mother’s Day.

As soon as you walk into the hotel you’re greeted by smiling faces helping you find exactly where you need to go. And once the elevator doors open into the beautiful Fontainebleau and Versailles Salons and you walk into the gorgeous setting where they host brunch, you’re immediately relaxed and ready for a wonderful meal.

We were seated at our table and immediately greeted by our amazing server, Juan. He took care of us the whole morning and made sure that my mimosa glass was full and my mother-in-law and daughter had everything they needed. I knew we were in for a great time when he told my daughter that she was definitely old enough for a glass to drink her orange juice out of. Her little chest puffed up and she drank her OJ like a pro.

The Food

Now I’ve been to many brunches in my 32 years however none have stacked up to the selection that The Westgate Hotel has. The choices you’ll have to make when you first walk through can be quite hard.

We had to take a lap around to view the selection first and then my daughter stopped at the crepe and waffle station. We watched with amazement as they made a delicious crepe for me and then flambeed some berries to nestle inside the crepe. Then they made my daughter a delicious belgian waffle with warm syrup.

We then enjoyed some delicious seafood and meats from their vast array of choices. One of my favorites? The shrimp empanandas and crab cakes. Wow! The oysters rockafeller were also outstanding. And while we didn’t make it over to the sushi bar this time, I cannot wait to try it out when we visit next!

As soon as my daughter walked to the desserts, her eyes got real big and she turned to me as if asking if she could really try whatever she chose. That childish joy that she experienced was exactly what I felt as an adult walking up to the dessert selection. From an amazing lavender panna cotta, to a chocolate hazelnut pyramid cake to many more scrumptious selections, our sweet tooth was fully satisfied.

The Details

The Westgate will be offering a Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch on Sunday, May 8! Served in the hotel’s beautiful Fontainebleau and Versailles Salons, brunch will feature made to-order-omelets, fresh seafood, gourmet plates, carving and crepe stations, baked breads, pastries and a variety of gourmet desserts.

In addition to the delightful unlimited feast, the Imperial Bar will serve freshly squeezed juices and endless champagne, mimosas, Bloody Marys and margaritas. The price is $79 for adults and $39.50 for children under 12 (plus tax and gratuity).

Tickets for Mother & Daughter Teas can be purchased here. Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch reservations can be made by calling 619-557-3655.

Looking for a place to stay in San Diego?

The Westgate Hotel is an iconic property in the heart of downtown San Diego designed to rival the mythical palaces of Europe. From its 223 elegantly appointed guest rooms to the contemporary cuisine of the award-winning Westgate Room, guests truly experience a memorable difference while enjoying European décor, attentive service, exquisite cuisine and artistic cocktails.

To reserve an overnight stay at TheWestgate Hotel, visit www.westgatehotel.com or call 800-522-1564.

What are your plans for Mother’s Day?

Thank you to the Westgate Hotel for hosting us.

Filed Under: Restaurants, San Diego, Uncategorized Tagged With: brunch, Brunch in San Diego, kid friendly San Diego, Mother's Day, Mother's Day Brunch, San DIego, San Diego Events, San Diego Hotels, Westgate Hotel

San Diego Festival of Science & Engineering Expo Day

February 25, 2016 by Danielle

This post featuring the San Diego Festival of Science and Engineering’s Expo day is sponsored.

Excite your mind at the San Diego Festival of Science & Engineering March 5-13.

The San Diego Festival of Science & Engineering’s EXPO Day is Saturday, March 5 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and kicks off a celebratory week of learning interaction and behind-the-scenes opportunities for kids in kindergarten through 12th grade and their families to ignite the love for all things STEM.

Join us at PETCO Park for a FREE day of fun for the entire family. Visit with more than 130 local businesses, corporations and organizations providing interactive, hands-on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) exhibits and activities to budding K-12 science lovers, but everyone is welcome. EXPO DAY is free and open to the public.

Now in its eighth year, festival organizers are expanding their festival event schedule to appeal to adults ages 21 and up, to continue their passion for STEM education. Also new in 2016 is the “STEM in Your Backyard” series, which consists of mini versions of EXPO Day in diverse communities across San Diego, including Vista, Barrio Logan, Chula Vista, City Heights and Downtown San Diego’s East Village. This new series will invite local families of all backgrounds to experience the festival and STEM exhibits in diverse neighborhoods across San Diego County.

A program of the BIOCOM Institute and presented by Illumina, the San Diego Festival of Science & Engineering is partnering up again with the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center to encourage and get kids excited about science and related fields to inspire them to become tomorrow’s STEM innovators. The festival also helps continue our region’s reputation of being a leader in the science industry. The San Diego Festival of Science & Engineering truly shows how science and engineering is right in our “backyard.”

The San Diego Festival of Science & Engineering website has a complete list of Festival Week events. Many of the activities are free and can accommodate school groups, scout troops, and other individuals, students and families.

Go to lovestemsd.org for complete details.

Is your child interested in STEM subjects?

Filed Under: Events, San Diego, Uncategorized Tagged With: Petco Park, San DIego, San Diego Festival of Science, STEM

Valentines Day Fun In Downtown San Diego

February 8, 2016 by Danielle

Looking for great gift ideas for Valentines Day? Or are you planning an amazing day for your loved one(s)? Check out what’s going on in Downtown San Diego, including a few fun events at Seaport Village!

Valentines Day Fun In Downtown San Diego

Unique Gift Ideas

Urban Beach House offers specialty salts from La Jolla Salt Co. for your culinary cutie. Keep the love alive in the kitchen with standout flavors including uncured bacon, Aleppo chile, black summer truffle and hickory smoked sea salt (starting at $12). You’ll find all his favorite SoCal brands including sleek Nixon watches and fashion-forward Stance socks.

Love is in the air with Surf’s Up Candles from Urban Beach House featuring beachy scents like surf wax, pina colada and pineapple coconut (starting at $18). Shoppers can also find beach inspired décor, bags and one-of-a-kind jewelry at Madison San Diego boutique.

Renowned photographer (and San Diego local) Aaron Chang offers a number of options for the art lover including 12×12 prints featuring waves and exotic landscapes (starting at $150), and a “San Diego Through the Lens of Aaron Chang” coffee table book featuring 80 pages of stunning San Diego scenery ($39.00).

From Feb. 12th- 14th local company Urban Shindigs will have a pop up floral shop and “Bloom Bar” in the central courtyard – the perfect place to buy blooms for your Valentine!

Fun with Food

Venissimo Cheese will offer Contraband Curds cheese plates featuring a selection of cheeses that have previously been banned. These $10 cheese plates will include dried fruit, chocolate, crackers and accoutrement.

With more than 20 hand-made gelato flavors, Gelato Paradiso will let movie guests “steal” a cone with any purchase ($1.00 value).

While you’re downtown, Morton’s The Steakhouse is offering a taste of the good life with an exceptional Morton’s steak and cold water lobster for only $55 (see image attached). We hope you consider including this in your Valentine’s Day restaurant round ups. Thank you.

Outdoor Movie Night

For a twist on the traditional Valentine’s Day date night, The Headquarters will also be hosting an outdoor movie night featuring the love and crime classic “Bonnie and Clyde” on Friday, February 12 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The event is completely free – guests are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets.

How are you celebrating Valentine’s Day?

Filed Under: Holidays, San Diego, Uncategorized, Valentine's Day Tagged With: Aaron Chang, Gelato Paradiso, Morton's, San DIego, Seaport Village, Surf's Up Candles, The Headquarters, Urban Beach House, Urban Shindigs, Valentine's Day, Venissimo Cheese

The LEGO Movie 4D A New Adventure at Legoland California

February 5, 2016 by Danielle

Lights! Camera! Action!

Our friends from The LEGO^® Movie and Legoland California invited us out to check out their new show. And you can only see it at Legoland California! Emmet, Wyldstyle, Unikitty, MetalBeard and Benny from “The LEGO^® Movie™” are back in this all-new adventure at The LEGO^® Show Place. Help them defeat the evil secret plot of the new villain, Risky Business!

The LEGO^® Movie™ 4D A New Adventure reunites Emmet and friends in an all-new short story combining dazzling 3D computer animation with “4D,” real-world effects such as wind, water and fog.

In 2014, kids around the world embraced the adventures of Emmet, an ordinary, rules-following, perfectly average LEGO minifigure who is mistakenly identified as the key to saving the world in “The LEGO Movie™,” which went on to gross more than $400 million worldwide.

But what happened after the movie?

Fans can find out starting Saturday, Feb. 6, now that “The LEGO Movie™ 4D A New Adventure” has officially opened at LEGOLAND California Resort.

Returning to voice their iconic characters are actors Elizabeth Banks (Wyldstyle), Nick Offerman (MetalBeard), Charlie Day (Benny) and Alison Brie (Unikitty). Actor, writer and comedian Patton Oswalt voices the scheming Risky Business, brother of movie villain President Business, a new character created exclusively for the attraction.

When asked how it felt to join a “family” of well-known characters, Patton responded, “It’s beyond flattering. It’s a clever, creative way of looking at, of all things, LEGO, and I was touched to be a part of it.” Patton added that since Risky Business is a character that fans of “The LEGO Movie” haven’t seen before, he approached his performance in hiding his character’s true intentions “with the wiles of a LEGO coyote.”

Set after the events of the movie, the 12 ½-minute story finds the gang entangled in an Evil Secret Plot involving a mysterious theme park inspired by their adventures in “The LEGO Movie,” one that requires them to call on the Master Builder skills of a surprise ally to save the day.

“The LEGO Movie™ 4D A New Adventure” was directed by Rob Schrab, who is making his feature film directorial debut with “The LEGO Movie Sequel,” set to open May 18, 2018. When it came to designing the attraction, he said a strong story was critical to its success.

“We only spotlight them for a fraction of the amount of time,” he said, “so it’s important to get tothe fun as soon as possible. This is the first time Emmet, Wyldstyle and the gang meet since thefilm.”

Developed in collaboration with LEGOLAND owner Merlin Entertainments Group and Warner Bros. Consumer Products, the attraction was created by Los Angeles-based Pure Imagination Studios with input from Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, the talented writer-directors who brought “The LEGO Movie” to hilarious life, along with producer Dan Lin.

The result is a delightfully clever blend of the same sly humor and breathtaking, built-with-LEGOvisuals that made the first-ever, full-length theatrical LEGO film a global hit among kids and adults alike.

For Offerman, the opportunity to slip back into MetalBeard’s shoes – er, bricks – was a welcome one.

“I have worked with Rob on ‘Childrens Hospital’ and ‘Parks and Recreation,’ so it was like a nice reunion of old pals from summer camp,” he said of making the attraction. “We just tried to make each other laugh with silly renderings of dead-serious pirate-y mayhem.”

“The LEGO® Movie™ 4D A New Adventure” opens on Feb. 6 at LEGOLAND California Resort in Carlsbad, Calif., following its debut in Florida on Jan. 28, and will soon be playing at all other LEGOLAND theme parks and LEGOLAND Discovery Centers worldwide in 2016.

Who’s your favorite LEGO® Movie star?

Planning a trip to Legoland CA soon? Check out our highlights:

For more Legoland CA fun, check out these great posts:
LEGOLAND California Holiday Snow Days
Legoland Heartlake City
5 Reasons Why Star Wars Lovers Should Visit Legoland California
Top 5 Things to Do at Legoland California When You’re 5

Filed Under: Events, San Diego, Travel, Uncategorized Tagged With: Carlsbad, Legoland, Legoland California, San DIego, San Diego Activities, The LEGO Movie

SHIMBASHI Izakaya | San Diego Restaurant Week January 17th – 24th 2016

January 16, 2016 by Danielle

This Sunday kicks off the first San Diego Restaurant Week of 2016 and boy are you in for a treat. San Diego Restaurant Week will take place from January 17th – 24th 2016. In those 8 days, over 180 restaurants will offer special menus to entice guests to try new things. While you peruse the restaurants participating, you’ll notice that there’s an option for every price point. From $10 for lunch, to $50 for dinner.

I’ve been attending restaurant week for quite a few years now and am always excited to try a new restaurant each time. Whenever I head to a new-to-me restaurant, I always try to keep an open mind. And in most instances I allow the chef or waiter to choose or suggest what I should try. I have yet to be disappointed!

This time around I ventured a little farther north to Del Mar and was invited to try the authentic Japanese cuisine of Shimbashi Izakaya. The prix fixe menu is $40, and available for both lunch and dinner.

Shimbashi Izakaya | Seasonal Japanese Tapas & Sake Bar

Once I sat down in the outside patio of Shimbashi Izakaya, I was immediately taken in by the beauty of my surroundings. Set in the heart of Del Mar, I had the perfect view of the Pacific ocean. The patio was surrounded by beautiful white lanterns and each table was covered wtih an umbrella. If it’s a chilly day, I recommend a light sweater since they can’t run the heaters with the umbrellas up.

Located in the Northwest corner of Del Mar Plaza, the restaurant is mainly outside on the patio and there’s a sake bar inside. You can find parking in the parking garage right behind the shops or on the street (2 hour parking). The restaurant validates up to 2 hours but it might be worth it to enjoy lunch or dinner and then walk around for a bit and pay the $2 extra for another hour.

Japanese Wagyu beef, fried blue shrimp and kobushime (kelp marinated white fish) at SHIMBASHI Izakaya

SHIMBASHI Izakaya | Restaurant Week Menu Highlights

This special Restaurant Week menu includes three kinds of appetizers for each guest, Japanese Wagyu beef, fried blue shrimp and kobushime (kelp marinated white fish), along with gunkan-maki (tuna tartare) sushi. While each component was delicious, my favorite appetizer would have t obe the fried blue shrimp. They were cooked perfectly and the flavor was absolutely delicious.

Confession: I’ve never eaten a shrimp that I had to remove the head from. It was kind of fun to figure out just how to do it. Luckily my friend Angela was there to help me out and talk me through it.

Nabe, or “hot pot,” is a fixture at dinnertime in the winter in Japan. The just-cooked piping hot ingredients really warm you up. Shimbashi prepares this special hot pot menu during San Diego Restaurant Week. You may choose from the Tarachiri (cod hot pot) or the Tori-gobo (chicken and gobo burdock). If you attend during SDRW with a friend or partner, you can each opt to choose the same option and share a large bowl vs. the smaller bowl.

To round out our meal, we each enjoyed a Futomaki sushi roll cake. With a delicious cake exterior and creamy ice cream interior, this beautifully created sushi roll cake wasn’t too overly sweet. And the portion size was perfect for the meal. This dessert pairs perfectly with a nice hot cup of green tea.

SHIMBASHI Izakaya Tori-gobo (chicken and gobo burdock)

Tori-gobo (chicken and gobo burdock) at SHIMBASHI Izakaya

SHIMBASHI Izakaya Tarachiri (cod hot pot)

Tarachiri (cod hot pot) at SHIMBASHI Izakaya

Waygu Beef Tasting

Delightfully meaty offerings from Miyazaki Prefecture, one of Japan’s best beef areas, will be served in four different forms: steak, Hamburg steak, kushiyaki, and kushikatsu. I was able to sample both the kushiyaki and kushikatsu and both simply melted in my mouth. The flavor was spot on and seasoning perfect. I would definitely enjoy indulging in more of these great selections of delicacies from Miyazaki.

The Wagyu tasting menu is separate from the restaurant week menu, and is subject to availability. All items are limited so hurry and head over soon if you’re interested in trying them.

Waygu Kushiyaki and Waygu Kushikatsu at SHIMBASHI Izakaya

SHIMBASHI Izakaya sushi roll cake dessert

Futomaki sushi roll cake at SHIMBASHI Izakaya

During San Diego Restaurant Week, dinner will be served as a three-course, prix-fixe menu for just $20, $30, $40 or $50 per person and lunch will be served as a two-course prix-fixe menu for only $10, $15 or $20 per person. This is meal-stealing, people! Saturday will once again be included as well as an additional Sunday, giving you that extra date night or chance to impress the boss!

What restaurant are you looking forward to trying?

Filed Under: Restaurants, San Diego, Uncategorized Tagged With: Date Night, Date Night Ideas, Date Night in the Afternoon, Del Mar, Del Mar Restaurants, San DIego, San Diego Restaurant Week, San Diego Restaurants, Shimbashi Izakaya

What To Do At The Coronado Island Film Festival Without A Pass

January 11, 2016 by Danielle

The Coronado Island Film Festival kicks off its debut this weekend and this is one event you don’t want to miss! With a list of celebrities a mile long, amazing movie screenings, and great Q&A opportunities before and after each screening, there is so much to do in this action packed weekend! But what if you didn’t score an elusive pass for all of the festivities? Don’t worry… there are things for you to do too!

There are four main pass options at the CIFF this weekend and if you’re like me and only have a Nado pass, you might want to hear about the other events you can attend while at the festival without one of the most elite passes.

What To Do At CIFF Without A Pass

Movie on the Del Beach

You can come see Some Like it Hot, starring Marilyn Monroe, Jack Lemmon, and Tony Curtis, on the very beach it was filmed at; the Hotel del Coronado. The movie will start at 5 pm but you’ll want to get there early and snag a spot on the sand for you and your guests! Feel free to make a picnic out of it and bring blankets and chairs, dinner and (non-alcoholic) drinks along with you for a fun night out.

The film will be introduced by Jack Lemmon’s son, actor, author, and musician Chris Lemmon, who will share some insider tidbits about the making of the film. Chris and his family will be guests of CIFF for the entire weekend.

Meet The Jury

Everyone is welcome to come Meet The Jury on Saturday, January 16th at the Loews Coronado Bay Resort Lobby Terrace from 4:30-5:30 PM.

The lineup of talented judges is amazing and this is an event you won’t want to miss if you’re planning on attending CIFF. The jury consists of Leonard Maltin, Honorary Jury President, Lisa Bruce, Head Juror, Ira Wohl, and Jim Gallagher. Jim Gallagher is the Head of Theatrical Marketing at DreamWorks Animation SKG.

Filmed In Coronado Exhibit

During CIFF, visit the Filmed In Coronado exhibit featured in the Coronado Public Library. You can find amazing tidbits of information regarding the actors who have lived in Coronado and films shot here. From vintage and recent movie posters to rare memorabilia and more, there’s a wealth of information all on display right now. Filmed In Coronado tells the story of how Coronado has been a significant location for movie-making since the silent-film era.

Make sure to stop by the library again on Saturday at 1 PM and again on Sunday at 4 PM to watch A Twist of Lemmon presented by Jack Lemmon’s son, Chris Lemmon, in the Winn Room. Chris’s “A Twist of Lemmon” tribute, both written and live performance, is heartfelt: “This was a loved man,” he writes. “A man who made the world a little brighter for all around him, and a man who is sorely missed, but remembered with great joy.”

Food Truck Reception

During the Awards Night Reception on Sunday from 6-8pm, Hollywood-style food trucks will roll into the high school quad at Coronado High, offering a selection of delicious “small plate” cuisine. Two of the trucks you’ll find are Harvest Kitchen serving up healthy, organic choices including Vegan and Paleo, and God Save the Cuisine, specializing in British-influenced Gourmet cuisine.

Free Trolley

Wondering how you’re going to get around from event to event? Coronado is a famously pedestrian-friendly village, and most Coronado Island Film Festival venues will be within easy walking distance from one another. But a trolley named “Felicity,” free to festival pass holders, will be making its village loop, just in case.

Generously provided by a grant from the Coronado Tourism Improvement District (CTID).

Pop Up Movie Scenes

The students of Coronado School of the Arts (CoSA) will surprise and amaze you by re-enacting classic movie scenes on Saturday, January 16th. All scenes will take place along Orange Avenue.

Put yourself in the scene by taking a selfie with the actors, then post it onto the CIFF Facebook page (and everywhere else). All Facebook postings will be shown on the big screen during the Awards Night program.

You can find more information on the event website. Follow along and join in on the fun by using #CIFF and #CoronadoFilmFest when sharing on social media.

To purchase tickets, you can head here. If you’re worried about getting into a screening, Rush Line tickets are $12 cash for individual films based on capacity. However, admission isn’t guaranteed.

The festival Box Office will be located in the Lecture Hall of the Coronado Visitor Center at 1100 Orange Avenue in Coronado, behind Tent City restaurant. The Box Office will be open starting the afternoon ofThursday, January 14th, as follows:

Thursday, January 14th – 1:00-5:00

Friday, January 15th – 9:00-5:00

Saturday, January 16th – 10:00-5:00

Sunday, January 17th – 10:00-5:00

Monday, January 18th – 9:00-5:00

Check out a run down of what not to miss on Mamarazzi Knows Best and a highlight of the animation panels on Highlights Along The Way.

See You At The Movies!

Filed Under: Events, San Diego, Uncategorized Tagged With: Coronado, Coronado Island Film Festival, Events, Film Festival, Free, San DIego, San Diego Events

San Diego Winter Break Activities

December 19, 2015 by Danielle

The whole family is home for two weeks and we’re looking for things to do around town. Not only by ourselves but with our extended family in town for the holidays. And that means hitting up a few of our favorite places to see their holiday lights and entertainment! Below are a few places we love to visit during our winter break that help us celebrate the holiday season up until the day the kids go back to school.

Places To Go In San Diego During Winter Break

San Diego Zoo Jungle Bells

Come out and celebrate with the animals now through Jan. 3! Twinkling lights, festive foods, and merry performances transform the Zoo into a wild, glowing wonderland. Ride the Twinkle Lights Trolley to tour an array of animal light sculptures, enjoy jingly, jazzy carols, acrobatic trampoline elves, and more. Jungle Bells holds holiday cheer for all!

Jungle Bells activities are included with your admission or membership unless otherwise noted.*

Sea World Christmas Celebration –

Where can you find Shamu®, Santa, and more than one million glimmering lights this holiday season? SeaWorld, of course! It’s all part of SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration®, continuing through Jan. 3, 2016. Festivities are included with park admission.

Enjoy festive holiday shows and attractions, share a holiday wish with Santa when you visit Santa’s Cottage, plus, bask in over a million glimmering lights and festive decorations filling the park! They’re sure to put everyone into the holiday spirit.

The best way to enjoy SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration is with a Fun Card. Guests who purchase a 2016 SeaWorld Fun Card can enjoy all of SeaWorld’s Christmas festivities in 2015, plus come back again and again in 2016.

San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum

San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum (SDCDM), the only children’s museum in San Diego County focusing on hands-on science, art, and world cultures, announces extended hours from December 20 through January 3.

The Museum will be open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm daily, providing an extra two hours for families to be able to enjoy the Museum over the holidays. Regular Museum hours are 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. The Museum will also be closed on December 24, 25 and January 1 in observance of the Christmas and New Year holidays.

In addition to providing extra hours for the community to visit the Museum, San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum is also offering Free Admission for all Active-Duty Military, Veterans, and their Families this holiday season from November 21, 2015 – January 31, 2016 thanks to the sponsorship support from The Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians.

SDCDM is also running a “You Buy One, We Give One” promotion where SDCDM will be donating a Membership to a family in need through one of their donation programs for every Membership that is purchased through January 10.

Legoland Holiday Snow Days

Come to LEGOLAND^® California Resort to experience Holiday Snow Days with more snow play than ever, prior to the Park opening to the public! The winter fun runs until January 3rd, 2016 and includes festive treats, holiday entertainment, cheerful decorations, family fun activities and nightly fireworks from December 26th through December 31st, 2015.

The Park’s Fun Town transforms into a winter wonderland with two snow play areas for families to throw snowballs at LEGO themed targets, do a little sledding, build snowmen using LEGO accessories, and join in the Holiday Village Build at the LEGO Clubhouse. Plus guests can enjoy a holiday show from the LEGO Friends, Jingle Jammers, and the Holiday Character Dance Party featuring the LEGOLAND elves, Jingle Joe, and Tinsel Toe.

But that’s not it! There’s more fun to be had! Read all about it here in our post.

How are you enjoying time with the kids during winter break?

Filed Under: Events, San Diego, Uncategorized Tagged With: Activities, Christmas Break, kid friendly San Diego, kids activities, San DIego, San Diego Activities

The Hake Restaurant and Bar | San Diego Restaurant Week September 20th – 27th 2015

September 16, 2015 by Danielle

One thing I absolutely love to do is get out and try new restaurants here in San Diego. There are so many options when it comes to quality, delicious restaurants and it seems like new spots pop up every other week. So what I love to do is explore a bit and try new things. The perfect way to do this is to take advantage of San Diego Restaurant Week.

For one week only, September 20th – 27th, San Diego Restaurant Week, presented by Your San Diego County Lexus Dealer, will return to the City with a bang! During San Diego Restaurant Week, participating restaurants will CELEBRATE LOCAL by partnering with local distributors, farmers, vintners, brewers, fishermen and MORE in order to bring local produce and Pacific-caught seafood to your plates. You can choose from over 190 participating restaurants who will be showcasing their top dishes on lunch and dinner prix-fixe menus making your taste buds tingle with choices!

The Hake Kitchen + Bar | Ambiance

My husband and I were invited out to try The Hake Kitchen and Bar to check out their San Diego Restaurant Week menu before it launches next week. Since we hadn’t been there before we weren’t sure what to expect. But that’s what Restaurant Week is there for! Nestled between shops and restaurants off Prospect in La Jolla, The Hake Kitchen is in a prime location. It’s the perfect spot to hit up for lunch on the weekends after a morning at the beach, or a great way to end the day for dinner during the week.

Once you walk in, you’re greeted with smiling faces a warm, friendly atmosphere.As soon as I saw the sign above, I knew I was in the right place. There’s seating inside as well as a few limited tables out on the two patios. There’s also a simple curtain divider to make room for small parties on one side of the restaurant. We chose to sit inside near the front patio and the restaurant was more than accomodating when they saw we brought our little one along. High chairs are available.

The Hake Kitchen + Bar | Menu

The delicious menu with fresh seasonal ingredients will have you wanting to order more than one thing to try. Ordering a few starters for the table to share is suggested. That way you can have a bite of everything! There’s also a wide variety of signature cocktails, draft and bottled beers, and mezcal flights – something for everyone. Their most popular signature drink, the One Hot Cucumber, is a fiery drink made with jalapeno tequila, cucumber puree, lime, agave nectar, and finished with a chili rim. Definitely one to try!

The Hake Kitchen + Bar | Food

I made the most of our visit and started us off with the Shaved Rib Eye. Paired with sauteed shishito peppers and onions and served with delicious hot tortillas and fresh guacamole, this definitely hit the spot. The rib eye was tender and flavorful and the peppers and onions were perfectly cooked. I’d suggest asking for a few extra tortillas so you can enjoy more of the goodness!

After we enjoyed our starter, the main courses arrived. Since we were there for lunch, we went for their shrimp roll and tuna steak sandwich. Now I was surprised by my husband’s choice of the tuna steak sandwich. Not because he doesn’t eat tuna, but because there was also a 10oz hanger steak with chimichurri sauce and truffle fries on the menu and he didn’t order that! But his tuna steak sandwich looked absolutely delicious. The shrimp roll was filled with large shrimp and fresh veggies tossed in a light dill mayo and served in a toasted brioche roll. The first bite was rather awkward as it was pretty large but it was so worth it! Absolutely delicious. I loved how fresh and flavorful it was.

To end the meal we went a little crazy and each of us ordered a dessert. Now I’m a chocolate person. So when I saw the chocolate hazelnut cake on the menu I knew I wanted to try it. But since Joseph’s allergic to peanuts, he doesn’t really care for any nuts. So he went for the Key Lime Semifreddo. If I had tried the Key Lime Semifreddo, I would have just eaten that. It was SO good! Not at all what I expected. Not that my chocolate hazelnut cake wasn’t good, it was! Absolutely delicious. And it would pair perfectly with a nice espresso. But the key lime semifreddo? To die for! I now know why why it’s won awards!

San Diego Restaurant Week | September 20th – 27th 2015

To make San Diego dining easier for you ALL YEAR ROUND, San Diego Restaurant Week has launched a new website! The new site has added more extensive search features, a recipes section with local restaurantcontributors, a special offers area that will be updated throughout the year and even a place where you can log your favorites to help you track through the variety of options available for you. The website will now serve as a tool for San Diego foodies 365 days a year for finding specials, deals and promotions at San Diego restaurants!

Dinner will be served as a three-course, prix-fixe menu for just $20, $30, $40 or $50 per person and lunch will be served as a two-course prix-fixe menu for only $10, $15 or $20 per person. This is meal-stealing, people! Saturday will once again be included as well as an additional Sunday, giving you that extra date night or chance to impress the boss!

What restaurant are you trying during San Diego Restaurant Week?

Filed Under: Date Night, Parenting, Restaurants, San Diego, Uncategorized Tagged With: Date Night, Date Night Ideas, Date Night in the Afternoon, La Jolla, La Jolla restaurants, San DIego, San Diego Restaurant Week, San Diego Restaurants, The Hake Kitchen and Bar

Fire and Fettucini San Diego: The Perfect Pairing

August 11, 2015 by Danielle

A few weeks ago I took a few hours to spend with my oldest. He hasn’t gotten much one on one with me since the baby was born and we were due for a mommy and son date. We were invited to Stone & Glass to preview their new Fire and Fettucini classes. Perfect for just about any coupling you could think of – mother son, father daughter, significant others, girlfriends, “bros” … hahaha – Stone & Glass has paired with Charlie’s Classic Cooking to bring together a glass making class and a cooking class.

One person learns how to make something with glass while the other learns how to cook a meal. So while I was learning how to make a beautiful glass heart, my son was learning how to make pasta by hand. Talk about a hands on experience! And afterwards we all were able to eat together and enjoy the meal he made.

During the glass blowing session the Stone & Glass team will explain safety tools and basic skills, you will learn how to shape and control the glass and apply color to create your masterpiece. Every student will design and create handmade artwork in glass and gain a strong understanding of how glass art is made. My other two classmates made sea stars with different colors and designs.

In the cooking session Chef Charles of Charlie’s Classic Cooking will lead you through making your pasta and sauce from scratch, perhaps adding a few surprises, preparing a side dish and dessert. And once you’ve had handmade pasta, you won’t want to go back to the boxed stuff! Oh my word is it good.

Can you tell he had fun?

The best part? It’s only $125.00 per pair! This class is offered the last Saturday of each month and available for private parties.

And while my son was too young for the glassmaking portion, he was the perfect age for cooking. Children 9 years and older can partake in the glassmaking and children 5 years and older can participate in the cooking. You can find more info on the Stone & Glass website.

Looking for a great opportunity for the kids?

Speaking of kids, Stone & Glass is offering a One Day Glass Camp for children ages 9 to 13 on Thursdays in August from 9am to 3pm. In the morning session the kids will be working with cold class; creating glass tiles following patterns and samples provided or unique masterpieces using various pre-cut glass materials.

Lunch is another creative opportunity – a nutritious lunch prepared with Chef Charlie of Charlie’s Classic Cooking. They ramp up the excitement in the afternoon with a hot glass demonstration, after which each student will work with our glass blowing team to create solid glass objects.

The glass camp is $120.00 per child per day. All tools and materials are provided. Pieces are ready for pick up in a week. These are small group sessions with a minimum 4 participants and maximum of 6. For more info, visit the Stone & Glass website.

Who will you be taking on a Fire & Fettucini adventure?

Stone & Glass on Facebook | Stone & Glass on YouTube | Stone & Glass on Instagram

Filed Under: San Diego, Uncategorized Tagged With: Charlie's Classic Cooking, Escondido, kid friendly San Diego, kids, San DIego, San Diego Events, Stone & Glass

What are your Mother’s Day plans?

The Food

The Details

What are your plans for Mother’s Day?

Is your child interested in STEM subjects?

Valentines Day Fun In Downtown San Diego

Unique Gift Ideas

Fun with Food

Outdoor Movie Night

How are you celebrating Valentine’s Day?

Who’s your favorite LEGO® Movie star?

Shimbashi Izakaya | Seasonal Japanese Tapas & Sake Bar

SHIMBASHI Izakaya | Restaurant Week Menu Highlights

Waygu Beef Tasting

What restaurant are you looking forward to trying?

What To Do At CIFF Without A Pass

Movie on the Del Beach

Meet The Jury

Filmed In Coronado Exhibit

Food Truck Reception

Free Trolley

Pop Up Movie Scenes

See You At The Movies!

Places To Go In San Diego During Winter Break

San Diego Zoo Jungle Bells

Sea World Christmas Celebration –

San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum

Legoland Holiday Snow Days

How are you enjoying time with the kids during winter break?

The Hake Kitchen + Bar | Ambiance

The Hake Kitchen + Bar | Menu

The Hake Kitchen + Bar | Food

San Diego Restaurant Week | September 20th – 27th 2015

What restaurant are you trying during San Diego Restaurant Week?

Looking for a great opportunity for the kids?

Who will you be taking on a Fire & Fettucini adventure?

About Me

Contact Me

Explore

Sponsors

Disclosure

Archives

What’s New