Masala Restaurant: World-Class Indian Cuisine in the Heart of Gaslamp

Posted by Barry Berndes

This is one of the most romantic restaurant in the Gaslamp district. It features an exotic decor, which is both relaxing and enjoyable. Seating is provided upstairs as well as on the main floor and on the sidewalk patio.

Surprisingly, the most romantic seating is on the second floor, which offers a panoramic view of the restaurant. Here in this casually elegant setting, wonderful Indian and vegetarian cuisine is served.

A delicious appetizer called Love Story is a special version of Indian curried hummus with triangles of garlic naan and a hint of spices. A wide assortment of lamb, chicken, beef and seafood entrees are served.

Recommended is the korma lamb, a very delicate lamb entree with raisins, almonds and saffron in a rich sauce with a touch of rose flower water. Not to be overlooked is the salmon curry cooked in yogurt with tomatoes and mustard seeds. They also offer many entrees cooked in a tandoori oven.

Desserts are no less spectacular! Dine here tonight. Hours Mon.– Wed 11 –3 and 5 – 9 p.m. & Thurs. –Sun. 11- 3  & 5-10 p.m. ($20-$30). Credit cards: DISC, MC, VISA.

Knight & Carver Yacht Center: Award-Winning Boatyard

Posted by Barry Berndes

Knight & Carver is widely recognized as the West Coast’s premier full-service yacht facility. They were awarded “Boatyard of the Year” by American Boat Builders & Repairers Assocation in 2007. They have also been honored by “Inc” Magazine and Harvard Business School as one the nation’s top 100 inner-city businesses.”

Twin Oaks Valley Winery: San Marcos – Winery: Bottled & Sold Locally

Posted by Barry Berndes

Nestled in a quiet corner of San Marcos (North County), is Twin Oaks Valley Winery, owned and operated by Malcolm and Kathryn Gray, with the help of their son, Michael. Their philosophy is to purchase grapes only grown in San Diego County in support of local growers. They say good wine comes from good grapes and we strive to find the best that San Diego County has to offer.

The Gray Family is committed to sustainability throughout the wine making process. Being a good land steward and being sensitive to the environment around the winery operation is their focus. They select only organic based products. All water used in the winery operation is collected and reused to irrigate the vineyard surrounding the operation.

In addition to making their own wine, Twin Oaks Valley Winery offers its facility to start-up wineries, individuals, groups and organizations to make wine for a fee, called “Custom Crush.” They are a bonded winery with commercial equipment, processes and access to their winemaker.

Come by and check out the tasting room where you can see the winery inside and out all the while enjoying wine that is truly of, by, and for San Diego.

Schwaesdall Winery is Ramona’s Well Established Wineries with a Beautiful View of Iron Mountain

Posted by Barry Berndes

This award-winning winery produces premium handcrafted, classic European red wines and traditional California whites, which are aged two or more years in an underground 1,500-sq. ft. cellar. The tasting room is the first commercially permitted straw bale building in San Diego County.

It’s open for tasting Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. For ($8) you can choose six wines to taste and receive a souvenir wineglass. Visitors are encouraged to sample their wines while enjoying the picturesque view of Iron Mountain from this 17-year-old Ramona vineyard. For weddings, special events and information about their straw bale guest house, contact John or Shirley Schwaesdall at (760-789-7547).

Pamo Valley Vineyard & Winery: Hand-Produced Wines at Wholesale Prices

Posted by Barry Berndes

Pamo Valley Winery is a licensed and bonded wholesale winery that markets its wines to restaurants, stores, events and wine clubs. They also do off-site events, visit their website for more information.

Their wines are produced entirely by hand, “the old fashion way”. They produce their wines with locally grown grapes.

Their new winery is situated on five acres in a forest-like setting that makes for a perfect paradise surrounding when entering the vineyard. Featuring several varietals and blends, owner Jennifer Jenkin makes some of the finest award-winning wine Ramona has to offer.

Saska’s Steak & Seafood is Celebrating Its 63rd Anniversary in North Mission Beach ’til 2 a.m.

Posted by Barry Berndes

Saska's Steak & Seafood

A legend in our city is Saska’s Steak & Seafood Restaurant. This family-owned restaurant is celebrating 63 years in business at the same location on Mission Boulevard in north Mission Beach.

Featured in a rustic nautical setting are Saska’s delicious fresh seafood selections and fabulous tasting steaks. The Saska’s secret to their delicious – tasting steaks is the “Saska’s Method” of preparing each steak.

Recommended entrées include filet mignon wrapped in bacon and served with mushrooms. Hungry diners won’t go hungry when they order The Duke, a 16-oz. sirloin cut for the serious eater.

Equally spectacular is the fresh fish selection, which may include local sword fish, northern halibut, bass and Pacific salmon. Best of all, the sea food is never frozen or fried.

For romantic seating ask for the corner booth by the fireplace in the dining room.

Saska’s is open for lunch 11:30 a.m.–3 p.m. on weekdays and 2 p.m.-3 p.m. on weekends. You can sit inside or on their outdoor deck or patio, weather permitting. Featuring late night dining: dinner Sun.–Thurs., 5 p.m.–midnight; Fri.–Sat. till 1 a.m. ($5.50–$23.95). Their Weekend Brunch is served 10 a.m.–2 p.m. ($3.95–$12.95).

Be sure to enjoy their Late Night Munchie Madness from 11 p.m. to close, which features a late night Saska Burger dinner for $4.50, which is 1/2 off the regular price.

For great sushi, visit Saska’s Sushi next door to Saska’s Steak & Seafood.

Shakespeare Pub & Grille is San Diego’s Original British Pub

Posted by Barry Berndes

Traditional Sunday lunch consisting of roast beef, Yorkshire pudding, mashed or roasted potatoes, a delicious onion gravy and two fresh seasonal vegetables.

Shakespeare himself would feel right at home at this traditional British pub. It’s been voted San Diego’s Best Pub for a dozen years in a row! You’ll enjoy everything including its authentic British decor and its truly diversified menu, which is filled with tasty English fare.

It’s open  Monday thru Thursday 10:30 a.m. – midnight. Friday 10:30 a.m. –midnight. Saturday 8 a.m. –midnifght and Sunday 8 a,m. –10 p.m. ($20– $30).

http://www.shakespearepub.com/image/menu_pic0.jpgThe authentic atmosphere will make you feel like you’re actually in a pub in the middle of Trafalgar Square. Inside, the lively laughter and friendly atmosphere are immediately apparent.

Credit cards: DISC, MC, VISA.

 

Richard Walker’s Pancake House is A Best Breakfast in San Diego Winner

Posted by Barry Berndes

Open 6:30– 2:30 daily *$10–$20). Indoor and outdoor seating with 4 locations to serve you

Downtown 520 Front St (619-231-7777)

La Jolla 909 Prospect. St. (323-726-2253)

Del Mar  2670 Via de La Valle, del Mar ((323-726-22530

Carlsbad 2656 Gateway Rd. (323-726-2253).

Richard Walker’s Pancake House won the Gold Medallion Award for Best Breakfast Restaurant in San Diego, which is yet another award of excellence.

It’s easy to become a fan of Richard Walker’s Pancake House, just come for breakfast.Richard Walker’s first pancake house in San Diego was almost an overnight hit because Richard Walker knows what his customers like.He has two other successful locations in Illinois. So now you can now enjoy the Walker family tradition here in San Diego! You will not be disappointed.

Their menu has more than 60 entrée selections, and their service is unbeatable. What makes their pancakes taste so great is that they only use the finest ingredients like USDA 93-Score butter, pure whipped cream, the freshest Grade AA eggs and hard wheat unbleached flour.

No, they won’t even substitute frozen, powdered or pre-assembled food. They even import sweet lingonberries from Sweden. Their coffee is their own blend and their sausages, bacon, hickory-smoked ham and Canadian bacon are custom made too!They even use old-fashioned sourdough in many of their batters, just like Richard’s great grandmother used to do.

Breakfast entrées include pancakes, waffles, omelets, crepes, flapjacks and more. Hard to beat is their Santa Fe Omelet, which is a zesty southwestern omelet. It comes with a medley of fresh onions, cilantro, tomatoes and jalapeño peppers served with jalapeño cheese and salsa.

Another delicious meal is their classic eggs Benedict, which is Canadian bacon and poached eggs served on a toasted English muffin and ladled with hollandaise sauce. Whatever you do, don’t miss trying Walker’s Baked Cinnamon Apple Pancake, which is as big as it is delicious.

Credit cards: DISC, MC, VISA.

Kobey’s Swap Meet Is a San Diego Attraction

Posted by Barry Berndes

Kobey’s Swap Meet is the largest swap meet in San Diego County and one of the largest in the state. Kobey’s Swap Meet is an open-air swap meet that is held in the huge parking lot of the Valley View Casino Center, which is 3 football fields long. It was formerly known as the San Diego Sports Arena.

Each week, as many as 30,000 shoppers come to shop for big savings at Kobey’s Swap Meet. The incredible selection of merchandise runs the gamut for everything you can think of including auto accessories, bikes, fresh produce, local souvenirs, jewelry, gifts, clothes and much much more.

The San Diego County Sheriff’s Museum Features Fun and Fascinating Interactive Exhibits

Posted by Barry Berndes

Here you’ll find the The William B. Kolender San Diego County Sheriff’s Museum and Educational Center. The best part about this museum are the interactive exhibits. You can listen to live police calls, hop on a sheriff ’s motorcycle and turn on the sirens and lights. You can even get a close-up look at inmate clothing, jail-made weapons and tattoo kits, and put your hands on real jail cell bars. It’s enough to make anyone think twice about breaking the law. Best of all, admission is free.

They are open Tues.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4 p.m. and closed Sun. and Mon. Make sure to visit the museum’s gift store for T-shirts, bears, miniature sheriff’s vehicles and collectibles.

Print this review and bring it to the Sheriff’s Museum, to receive a free gift..

The Ocean Beach Antique District is Home to Antique Stores Microbreweries and Beer

Posted by Barry Berndes

Antiques displayed in Ocean Beach

Locals and visitors alike never tire of exploring San Diego’s faavorite antique district picturesquely located in the seaside community of Ocean Beach. The Ocean Beach Antique District encompasses the 4800 and 4900 blocks of Newport Avenue at Sunset Cliffs Boulevard in Ocean Beach. Most stores are open daily from 10 a.m. 6 p.m. and are ideally intermingled amongst cute little restaurants and micro breweries and even an authentic winery. So plan to make this a shopping spree and dining destination at this easy-to-get-to seaside community (see map at the bottom of this review).

Definitely visit Vignettes-Antiques & Collectibles at 4828 Newport Avenue 9619-222-9244) and infonormation@vignettesdecor.com. Since 1995, the owner has offered endless inspiration to french inspired antiques. She creates refresning displays of period antiques making them almost come to life. Being located closest to Sunset Cliffs Avnue, this antique store should be your first destination. So, park your car diagonally on the street and after visiting this antiqque store, walk westward towards the ocean to discover the rest of the antique stores on this three lblock long street.

With lots of antique dealers worthy of discovering, you can spend an entire day here browsing, shopping and dining. So, why not plan to make this a days visit as Ocean Beach has much to offer, including 75 recommended restaurants, several micro breweries and brew pubs as well as the longest fishing pier on the West Coast. Be sure to read the Ocean Beach chapter online.

Down Newport Avenue towards the ocean is The Ocean Beach Antique Mall/Empire Enterprises Antiques at 4926 Newport Ave. (619-223-6170) [antiquesinsandiego.com] [antiquesinsandiego@cox.net}. It’s open daily 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m. daily. The Ocean Beach Antique Mall/Empire Enterprises Antiques is the oldest and most respected Antique Mall for collectibles antiques in Ocean Beach. They offer over nearly years of experience in offering unique antiques and collectibles to the discriminating collector. They have been the recipient of many Best of San Diego awards. So, without a doubt, this is one store not to miss when discovering the best of the best in Ocean Beach’s famous antique district. Featured items include vintage and estate gold, silver and costume jewelry, sterling flat and hollow-ware, clocks and watches, American artifacts, doll houses, art pottery, sports memorabilia, ivory and more.

If you need a break from antiquing, stop in at Culture Brewing Co, at 4845 Newport Ave., a popular brewery that showcases local artists on their walls. it’s across the street from the .  If you prefer to sample good wines then just across the parking lot from Newport Avenue Antique Center and Coffee House is the Gianni Buonomo Vintners Winery and Tasting Room (9) 4836 Newport Ave. (608-212-8551) [gbvintners.com]. The winery is open Wednesday through Sunday.

With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that the Ocean Beach Antique District has become such an enjoyable place to shop, dine, drink wine or micro brews at local spots in the picturesque beach town of Ocean Beach. Adding to the charm of Ocean Beach is that cars are parked diagonally along its main shopping district giving Ocean Beach a nostalgic feeling. Come and enjoy a slice of San Diego at its best.

The other notable antique districts in the central area of San Diego can be found along Adams Avenue Antiques near the corner of 30th Street along Adams Avenue. Further east in historic La Mesa Village is the La Mesa Antique Village (619-303-5811) at 8030 La Mesa Blvd.  La Mesa, Ca 91942. There is a lot going on here with their annual La Mesa City wide Oktoberfest, Christmas in the Village and ongoing 50’s Car Shows.

La Mesa is a charming small town resting at the foot of Mount Helix and it continues to display a charming appeal, which you should not miss. See the La Mesa Chapter.

Front Street Bar & Grill is Where the Temecula Valley Locals & Visitors Go For Great Tasting Food

Posted by Barry Berndes

This is the downstairs restaurant and bar at Bailey’s Fine Dining restaurant. And they serve practically all of the same entrées at slightly lower prices, with only a few exceptions. The real difference between the two restaurants is the atmosphere. Upstairs is where diners come to enjoy fine dine in a formal atmosphere. Downstairs is so informal that diners often sing along with the live music, which is featured on the weekends. Great tasting entrées include the Salmon Wellington with roasted peppers and shitake mushrooms in a puff pastry.

The grilled beef tenderloin with Gorgonzola cheese is also excellent. At the Front Street Bar & Grill expect to enjoy great-tasting food in a casual but lively atmosphere. They have a popular happy hour from 3 p.m.–6 p.m. as well as one of the best Sunday Brunches, from 11 a.m.– 3 p.m.

Don’t miss their new Night Club called “Eleven After Dark” open Thursday–Saturday 10 p.m.–2 a.m. with a DJ and dancing.

Island Prime means Steaks, Seafood, and Bay Views

Posted by Barry Berndes

Expect to enjoy delicious cuisine and Perfect San Diego Bay Views

Ideally located at the tip of Harbor Island (see map below) explains why thiss excellent restaurant is so popular. It’s literally it’s LOCATION, LOCATION,  LOCATION, that makes it so popular for inbound and outbound airline travelers to get a bite to eat before or upon arrival. It’s romantic view of downtown San Diego especially at sunset when the sun reflecting on the downtown high rise buildings that makes it so popular. It’s also a great special occasion restaurant. Plus, Island Prime is literally two restaurants under one roof, the first is Island Prime serving steak and seafood, and the other is C Level Lounge featuring California cuisine. For spectacular bay and downtown San Diego skyline views, ask for tables 21 or 26. Chef Deborah Scott’s Island Prime features metro steaks and seafood in a romantic setting. Excellent cuts of USDA prime mid-western corn beef steaks include an 8- and 12-oz. prime fillet mignon, a huge 22-oz. prime porterhouse steak, a 16-oz. New York steak, an 18-oz. bone-n-rib eye steak and a 12- and 20-oz. prime rib.

All of these entrées are cooked to perfection. Seafood lovers will be delighted with the taste and presentation of the cedar plank roasted salmon, the center cut swordfish and the hazel nut crusted diver scallops with goat cheese. A fabulous bay view with excellent steaks cooked to perfection and fresh seafood entrées make Island Prime a winner.

Open Daily 5 p.m/. – 9 p.m. ($20-$50). However, weekend hours may vary, so call ahead ((619-298-6802). A business casual dress code is recommended. Credit Cards: AE, DISC, MC, VISA.

Harbor Island and San Diego Airport

Humphreys SoCal Dining & Music is a Bayfront Restaurant Winner

Posted by Barry Berndes

Humphreys Restaurant

Humphreys Restaurant on Shelter Island is the award winner of the 2006, 2007, 2009 and 2010 San Diego Restaurant Association’s Gold Medallion Award for Best Live Music Venue/Restaurant. And when it comes to Sunday brunch, Humphreys bay-front restaurant is as good as it gets. Humphreys features an unparalleled presentation against the backdrop of beautiful yachts moored on the bay.

Equally impressive is their exciting coastal cuisine. Delicious entrées include fresh seafood, aged and tender steaks and a variety of innovative daily specials created by their award-winning Executive Chef Percy Oani. He has previously been the dynamic influence behind the superb globally-inspired cuisine.

You won’t find a better dining experience! Humphreys is also well known for its fantastic happy hour and live music nightly plus their nationally known entertainers perform at their outside theater for Humphreys Concerts By The Bay. Banquets & Catering via ticketsonsale.com & (800-515-2171).

Humphreys is the perfect choice for any wedding ceremony, reception, corporate event or special gathering with its scenic views and award-winning cuisine. Their experienced sales staff is ready to help you create a unique and memorable experience. Please contact them at 800-377-1177 or catering@halfmooninn.com.

Open daily for Breakfast  7 a.m.–11 a.m. & dinner nightly 5:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Plus an Award Winning World-Class Sunday Brunch from 10 a..m. – 2 p.m. costing ($39.95 for adults  & ($16) for children ages 4–11.Reservations are strongly suggested. The venue includes live Jazz and breathtaking views of moored yachts at Shelter Island’s many yacht clubs & marinas.

The cuisine, which seems endless includes over a dozen food stations featuring made to order omletts, seafood selections galore, pastries, mounds of bacon and sliced roast beef AND the list goes one and on. Plus sushi & desserts galore.

You can find a similar menu at their other Hotel Restaurant Humphreys La Jolla Grill at 3299 Holiday Ct. in the Sheraton La Jolla Hotel (858-452-4000).

Jack & Giulio’s Serves Italian Favorites with a 48 Year Reputation for Excellence

Posted by Barry Berndes

This is a restaurant with a 45-year reputation for excellence and a loyal following. It has a tradition of wonderful Italian cuisine. Homemade pastas, sauces and soups are only the beginning. For a meal to remember try their fabulous filet mignon in cognac and scampi alla Giulio.

They serve the best scampi in town, and also feature many other popular dishes, like veal, poultry, beef, and seafood specialties. They have a good selection of excellent wines to complement your meal.

Kaiserhof Restaurant Voted Best German Restaurant in San Diego 36 years in a Row

Posted by Barry Berndes

German, Restaurant, Beer, Biergarten, Wienerschnitzel, Spatzle, Bratwurst

Kaiserhof Restaurant (2) during the pandemic you needed to call for hours open. Most recent hours have been limited to Thursday thru Sunday with curbside takeaway only from noon till 7 p.m. only.

This awesome local faqvorite has been voted the best German restaurant in all of San Diego for 36 years in a row. At Kaiserhof Restaurant they pride themselves is serving the best selection and the widest variety of excellent veal, pork and beef. Kaiserhof Restaruant also serves a large selection of seafood entrées. And of course Kaiserhof also serves spaetzle, which is homemade pasta.

All of the veal dishes, including the Wiener Schnitzel, are made from milk-fed veal at Kaiserhof Restaurant. Beef selections include the popular rouladen of beef, which is rolled beef stuffed with bacon, onions, pickles and sausage meat in a burgundy sauce. The owner is also the chef and he loves to prepare authentic entrées. That’s why Kaiserhof Restaurants stands at the top of the list for authentic German Restaurants in Southern California.

All dinners served here at Kaiserhof include soup or salad and a choice of two of your favorite side dishes, such as potato salad, red cabbage, sauerkraut and more. during the pandemic you need to call for hours open. Most recent hours have been limited to Thursday thru Sunday with curbside takeaway from noon till 7 p.m. only. Prior to the pandemic their Brunch was served on Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and their German Pancakes, featuring two rolled pancakes filled with preserves are especially popular. The Bolter family takes great pride in serving the finest German cuisine.

Chef Peter Bolter, who is also the owner of Kaiserhof German Restaurant, was trained in the art of gourmet cooking. As you might expect they have a fine selection of liquor including Cocktails, 14 draft beers, 12 imported and 2 domestic beers, and more than 30 wines are featured.

And what would a respectable German Restaurant be if it did not also have a Biergarten (Beer garden, for the non-German speaker)? Yes, they have a nice biergarten, which is especially appreciated by all. Check out Kaiserhof biergarten during happy hour. Kaiserhof has outdoor heating to enjoy the beer garden even on cooler days.

KoKo Beach Dinner House: Good Food, Friendly Service & Affordable Prices

Posted by Barry Berndes

KoKo Beach KoKo Beach is one restaurant where you’ll get the most for your money. They serve good quality food in a friendly atmosphere with comfortable red leather booths. Slow-roasted prime rib is the house specialty along with Alaskan king crab legs with savory drawn butter.

Other delicious entrées are the New York steak, delicious top sirloin steak, fresh broiled mahi mahi, grilled Atlantic salmon topped with fresh dill butter, shrimp scampi sautéed in garlic and white wine, and tantalizing teriyaki sirloin and shrimp skewers.

If possible, leave room for dessert. Both their carrot cake and white raspberry cheesecake are fitting conclusions to a memorable meal. Their ports lounge open till 12:30 a.m. Early bird and late bird KoKo Beach Specials served Sun.-Thurs., 4 p.m.-midnight and Fri.-Sat., 4 p.m.-6 p.m. Kids under 12 ($4.95).

It’s Buster’s Beach House for Island-Style Cuisine

Posted by Barry Berndes

Catch the island spirit at Buster’s with its romantic tropical decor, friendly service and great menu. With pastas, fresh fish specials, burgers, salads, wraps and ribs, it’s hard to decide which great-tasting entrée to select. An extra plus is dining on their terrace with its romantic bay and marina view.

Now offering Sunday Brunch. and available for banquets up to 350. Seaport Village, downtown (619-233-4300). Open 8 a.m.-10 p.m. (may vary). Breakfast ($6.95-$18.95); lunch ($9-$19.95); dinner ($9-$27.95). Happy hour 3 p.m.-6 p.m. daily, and late night happy hour Sun-Thrs 9-10pm, Fri-Sat 10-11pm.

The Aloha Restaurant Gift Card is a great gift idea or for corporate incentives! Give some Aloha to friends and family. Available in all denominations. You can even add your “Aloha Card” to your dining bill. Just ask your server!

Mount Palomar Winery is One of the Original Wineries in Temecula Valley

Posted by Barry Berndes

Mount Palomar Winery

One of the original wineries, established 1969, it is up a little hill, hidden from the road. This inviting winery is open for tastings daily. They produce over 14,000 cases of wine annually and distribute to store and fine restaurants in Southern California. They also have a full-service gourmet deli, gift shop, patio and shady picnic area. An excellent site for weddings.

Tasting Room Summer Hours are Monday – Friday 11 am – 6 pm and Saturday & Sunday 11 am – 7 pm. 1 Tasting Ticket is $12 Monday through Thursday and $15 Friday – Sunday. Reservations are requested for groups of 10 or more. Please call 951-676-5047 x119 to make reservations. You will be able to select six wines from their extensive tasting menu at your choice of two tasting bars, you will also receive a logo glass for you to take home . When the weather cooperates, you can also enjoy your wine tasting experience on the beautiful patio at the cozy outdoor bar.

Mount Palomar makes a range of fine wines with special emphasis on classic, Bordeaux style blends and Italian varieties. Mount Palomar also has a thirty year history of producing excellent Port and Solera Cream Sherry. The winery uses two main brands: Mount Palomar and Castelletto. The Castelletto name (“little castle” in Italian), used by Mount Palomar for our Italian style wines, comes from the family of our founder’s wife, Olivia de Reya Poole. The name “Castelletto” is a title awarded in Italy to Antonio and Sebastiano de Reya in 1735. The Castle and Star image on the label is found on the original Castelletto crest.

Their wine has earned many recognitions including four Best of Show awards at major wine competitions and numerous Best of Class and Gold Medal distinctions. A Mount Palomar wine has been named “Best Wine of the Southern California Region” by the California State Fair five separate times, most recently in 2008. Mount Palomar has also been recognized for sustainable environmental practices in viticulture.

Mount Palomar Winery’s development plans for the future include extensive new vineyard plantings; a larger wine production facility; a new guest facility including restaurants and a world-class, wine country resort and spa; and estate homes.

SeaWorld is Everybody’s Favorite Sight To See

Posted by Barry Berndes

SeaWorld San Diego is set on 189 beautifully landscaped acresalong the sparkling shores of Mission Bay Park. As you might expect, SeaWorld has something to offer everyone.

This fun-filled marine life park features thousands of fascinating ocean creatures including killer whales who star in the visually stunning “Believe” Shamu show, as well as penguins, sharks and colorful fish. Plus, they have polar bears, beluga whales and walruses at Wild Arctic.

Don’t miss the thrill of Manta a roller coaster ride, that is paired with a 100,000 gallon aquarium and an out door ray pool that twists and turns over low terrain. The ride features dual launch zones with an exhilarating 54-foot drop into a subterranean trench with a dramatic dip into a shallow lake. A great price saver for getting your tickets is with CityPASS, order online instead of paying more.

The park offers other exciting attractions such as Journey to Atlantis, a water coaster; Shipwreck Rapids water rapids ride; Sesame Street Bay of Play, a whimsical children’s play area with three family-friendly rides along with Sesame Street character meet-and-greets. Also, don’t miss the Penguin Encounter featuring more than 250 penguins.

SeaWorld is open year-round and hours vary based on the season. Admission is ($73) for adults; ($66.99) for children; children under 3 are free.

LEGOLAND in Carlsbad Has Over 60 Exciting Rides, Fun Shows Kids Love

Posted by Barry Berndes

LEGOLAND in Carlsbad

LEGOLAND California is home to more than 60 exciting rides, shows and attractions. But the really big news is the world’s first and only LEGOLAND Water Park.

The imagination really flows on Build-A-Raft river, where everyone floats on their own custom-built LEGO raft. The Water Park also features six-person raft slides, single-person tube slides, body slides and hands-on toddler areas, so there’s something for the entire family.

With favorites like the Dragon Coaster, Pirate Shores, Volvo Driving School and the amazing Miniland USA, it’s a full day of fun. The park is located just 30 minutes north of San Diego off I-5 and Cannon Road, which leads to LEGOLAND Drive (see map).

The park is open Thurs.–Mon., but is open daily Memorial Day week-end through Labor Day and during specific periods. Admission is ($67) for adults and ($57) for seniors and children 3–12. For just ($10), you can upgrade your LEGOLAND ticket to include the Water Park. Parking is ($12).

Next to LEGOLAND California Park is SEA LIFE™ Aquarium. It gives families a fun, interactive way to discover the wonders of our oceans, while learning about the marine environment and the importance of ocean conservation.

Attractions include an upclose look at the native sharks, rays, and Giant Pacific Octopus of San Francisco Harbor in California-themed displays.

There are also opportunities to have unique experiences with sea stars and other aquatic creatures. And don’t miss new shark adventures now at SEA LIFE with three all-new shows. With hands-on touch pools and interactive discovery zones, SEA LIFE Aquarium makes the aquatic world fun.

Admission is ($18.95) for adults, ($15.95) for seniors, ($11.95) kids 3–12. For just ($10) you can upgrade LEGOLAND tickets to include SEA LIFE. Call (760-918-5346) for more information.

Nearby, the Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa features a private entrance to LEGOLAND® Resort California, for a quick, convenient start to your day of adventure. Most guest rooms feature Coastal and Fairway views. The Resort offers a large free form pool, tennis courts, full service restaurant and is less than 2 miles from Carlsbad State Beaches.

La Bella Cafe & Games Serves Chula Vista’s Best Pizza

Posted by Barry Berndes

 

la Bella Pizza & Games

La Bella Pizza & Games serves the best pizzas you have ever tasted.

La Bella Cafe & Games (8) is the most popular pizza restaurant in Chula Vista. Boasting 70 years in business, they truly have it all including a huge games parlor. Yet, the games are just the latest attraction to go along with entertaining the hundreds of families who dine here every day. Hours: Sun- Wed 9 a.m.- 10 p.m., Thurs. – Sat. 9 a.m. –10:30 p.m. ($10–$20).

Without a doubt, the two biggest attractions are their pizza and their game parlor. Just ask anyone and they’ll tell you that they have the best pizza in Chula Vista and the South Bay.

La Bella Pizza and Games brings lots of happy diners back again and again. It’s filled with every game you can imagine including X-Box games, pinball machines, pool tables, dart boards and more. Of course, the games are what kids crave to entertain themselves with and the adults crave the best tasting Italian cuisine this side of the Atlantic. So if you are looking for the perfect place for the entire family of all ages and tastes look no farther than the world famous La Bella Pizza and Games. It’s in the heart of Chula Vista in the Third Avenue Shopping District.

So before, during or after you play to your heart’s content, order yourself one of their delicious pizzas. Highly recommended is Papa’s Favorite. This incredible pizza is overflowing with pepperoni, sausage, and mushrooms and smothered with melted cheese. Their pasta is just as tasty and are big enough to share.

The sourdough garlic bread and refreshing salads are great additions to any entrée. They also have a beer and wine and sensational desserts like gelato and cheesecake.

So get something tasty to eat before you get lost in the maze of games galore.  

San Diegan Coupons

So grab your friends and head for La Bella Cafe & Games for delicious pizza and Italian food and you’ll always have a great time! Credit cards: Disc, MC, VISA.

 

Leucadia Pizzeria Serves The Best Tasting Pizzas, Pastas & More To Your Table or To Your Door

Posted by Barry Berndes

Leucadia Pizzeria & Italian Restaurants ($10 to $20 per person). and a half dozen San Diego County locations to serve you. They are indeed a San Diego treasure with over 30 years in business with both sit down and delivery options. They’re open 3 p.m. – 9 p.m. daily except Fri. & Sat. they’re open till 9:30 p.m.

If you are dining in, as you enter the restaurant the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked garlic bread fills the air, which is a promise of good things to come. They have dozens of delicious pastas and entrées to choose from. These include wonderful-tasting lasagna, savory chicken Parmesan, tantalizing eggplant Parmesan and memorable tortellini with chicken.

As for their pizzas, they have more than 26 specialty pizzas to choose from including the shrimp garlic pizza, Hawaiian and pesto. There is something for everyone. A great choice is the roasted garlic chicken pizza. Even its name sounds mouthwatering. It’s loaded with cheese, garlic, scallions and chicken, with a crispy, crunchy crust. If you have room, don’t forget their gourmet desserts, which are prepared fresh daily by pastry chef Nikki Schaeffer. With such great-tasting food, it’s no wonder that they also offer to bring it to you. Their full menu can be delivered to your home, office or the beach.

Open daily for lunch and dinner, perfect for catering, order by 10 a.m. to be catered by noon. For reservations and catering call the specific location nearest to you when placing your order. Complete menu and ordering available online for delivery.

They deliver anywhere in Leucadia, South Carlsbad, La Costa, Encinitas, Olivenhain, Carmel Valley, Rancho Santa Fe, Sorrento Valley, Sorrento Mesa, La Jolla, North Clairemont, University City, Cardiff and Solana Beach.

Their catering team is great for bringing gourmet pizzas, pastas, salads and subs to your corporate parties, rehearsal dinners, birthdays and any type of event. Both their La Jolla and Encinitas locations are great for casual banquets in their large outdoor patios.

Credit cards: AE, DISC, MC, VISA.

America’s Best Value Inn & Suites Offers a Great Location, Value and Close to all

Posted by Barry Berndes

Located in Vista, with easy access to shopping, beaches and area attractions. Enjoy large beautiful rooms, microwaves, refrigerators, cable TV, pool, spa, picnic & BBQ area, tennis courts, putting green, complimentary breakfast and wireless internet throughout property and large vehicle parking.

Two-story, 72 room, exterior-corridor property with park-at-your door convenience.

MCRD Command Museum is More Than Just a Museum, It is the History of the U.S. Marine Corps

Posted by Barry Berndes

MCRD Command Museum
This awesome, historically significant museum is dedicated to preserving the glorious history and rich tradition of the United States Marine Corps. This historical museum is visited by more than 100,000 people annually. “A Walking Tour of the MCRD Command Museum” features fourteen galleries, which encompass dozens of exhibits featuring everything from weapons, uniforms, equipment, paintings and photographs of various wars and campaigns the Marine Corps has fought in including WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, the Gulf War and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

This awe inspiring museum is one attraction that should not be missed. Be sure to use their discount coupon for 50 percent off historical art prints or 10 percent off your purchase of $35 or more at their extensive gift shop. Admission is free.”

Located at Building 26 on the Marine Base near Old Town San Diego. The entrance to the Marine base is via Gate 4, which is at the foot of Witherby Street. To get on the base you will need a valid ID, proof of insurance and current automobile registration. Once you’re on the base, the museum is directly in front of you just slightly to the right.

Building 26 is a two-story Spanish colonial building. Guided tours are available for groups of 10 or more with advanced planning.

Mingei International Museum Has a Permanent Collection of 17,500 objects from 141 countries

Posted by Barry Berndes

Southern California’s largest collection of art of the people from all eras and cultures of the world. Dynamic, changing exhibitions of historical and contemporary folk art, craft and design, and a popular museum store featuring handmade items from around the world.

TRUE BLUE: Indigo, Turquoise, Cobalt & Lapis Lazuli. The color blue evokes mystery, beauty and allure. It can express the intense exhilaration of a blue sky day, yet also suggests the pit of despair, and much much more as you will learn.

Quilts from the Pat L. Nickols Collection, Celebrating the recent gift of 350 American quilts from local collectors Pat and Tom Nickols, this installation provides a first look at selections.

MAKE YOUR OWN KIND OF MUSIC – The Art of Musical Instruments, drawn from the collection of Mingei International Museum and other institutional and private collections, this exhibition draws the eye to the art of music making.

Tues.-Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed national holidays. Admission: $7 adults, $5 seniors, $3 youth, students/military with ID.

25-65% OFF at Las Americas Outlets

Posted by Barry Berndes

Just steps from the international border you’ll find a true outlet shopping mecca. It’s Las Americas Premium Outlets®, located at 4211 Camino de la Plaza (619- 934-8400), home to an incredible collection of 125 designer and name-brand outlet stores that offer something for everyone. This attractive outdoor center is part of the family of Premium Outlet Centers® with locations across the United States, Mexico, Japan and Korea. Las Americas Premium Outlets is open Mon.–Sat., 10 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.–7 p.m. with extended hours for select sales and holidays.

Las Americas Premium Outlets is conveniently located just 20 minutes south of downtown San Diego. From I-5, take the Dairy Mart Road exit, go one-eighth mile and turn left onto Camino de la Plaza. The center is one mile on the right. From I-805, exit Camino de la Plaza, the last exit before the international border crossing into Mexico. Turn right and go one-eighth mile, the center is on the left.

Las Americas Premium Outlets is well known on both sides of the border as a top shopping destination for finding quality at unbelievable savings.

At Las Americas Premium Outlets you’ll find stores including Ann Taylor, 2b bebe, Banana Republic, BCBG Max Azria, Brooks Brothers, Calvin Klein, Coach, Gap Outlet, Guess, Izod, J.Crew, Kenneth Cole, Lacoste, MaxStudio.com, Nine West, Polo Ralph Lauren, Tommy Bahama, Tommy Hilfiger and many others.

The most popular names in sports and sportswear are all here and the savings are impressive. You’ll find Adidas, Converse, Hurley, Nautica, New Balance, Nike, O’Neill, Puma, Skechers and Vans. For everything for kids, head to The Children’s Place Outlet, Disney Store Outlet, Gymboree and Stride Rite Keds Sperry. In addition to great clothes, you’ll find savings at a wide range of stores. Be sure to check out the beautiful jewelry at Daniel’s Jewelers, Swarovski and Zales Outlet. Don’t miss a visit to UETA Duty Free which offers duty-free and tax-free savings on a wide variety of fragrances, accessories, tobacco products, liquor and beer.

Save time to eat at one of the many restaurants and eateries including Achiote, a Mexican restaurant with an authentic Tijuana flavor, IHOP, Starbucks Coffee, Subway and more. Plus there’s a large food court with a wide variety for all tastes. Las Americas Premium Outlets offers many customer services including stroller and wheelchair rentals. Gift Cards, which are accepted at all stores, can be purchased at the Information Center.

Las Americas Premium Outlets offers savings of 25 to 65 percent every day and has annual sales during the weekends of Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Columbus Day and Labor Day for even greater savings. Plus, the famous After Thanks giving Weekend Sale featuring Midnight Madness kicks off at midnight as Thanks giving ends and continues with special savings through Sunday. It’s a shopping event not to be missed.

Visit premiumoutlets.com for a complete list of current stores, detailed information on sales, center hours, local attractions and accommodations, and much more.

Classic Party Rentals: Your One Stop Shop for Event Rentals

Posted by Barry Berndes

Classic Party Rentals With 70 miles of beaches and a perfect climate, every day is a good day to celebrate in San Diego.

Classic Party Rentals brings every party dream to Technicolor life. Their party professionals are masters at creating the exact mood and theme you’re looking for. Whether you’re planning a luau in La Jolla, or an upscale affair downtown, at Classic San Diego, we’ve theyve you covered from tent top to tabletop.

Ramada Inn is Conveniently Located Next to Carlsbad’s Many Attractions

Posted by Barry Berndes

Conveniently located just a half mile from Carlsbad State Park.This 121 room hotel offers studios starting at ($89) and one- and two-bedroom suites starting at ($109) and ($229), respectively.

They also feature a complimentary continental breakfast, heated pool and spa, laundry facilities, free wireless Internet, as well as meeting facilities. Enjoy the comforts of home with minifridges, microwaves, coffeemakers, cable TV and more.