S3 in San Diego, CA: 2 Spots From the Video

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for San Diego

Must-try foods in San Diego

• California Burrito
  California BurritoA San Diego original, this massive burrito skips the rice and beans in favor of crispy French fries, alongside marinated carne asada, melted cheese, guacamole, and sour cream. Local favorites like Lolita’s or Lucha Libre are the standard-bearers for this iconic comfort food.
• Carne Asada Fries
  Carne Asada FriesInvented in San Diego in the late 1980s, this dish serves as the ultimate late-night snack. A bed of crispy fries is piled high with grilled steak, mounds of cheddar and jack cheese, guacamole, and salsa fresca. It is a staple at nearly every 'bertos' taco shop in the city.
• Uni (Sea Urchin)
  Uni (Sea Urchin)San Diego is one of the world's premier sources for high-quality red sea urchin. Served fresh at institutions like Sushi Ota or the newer Soichi, the uni is prized for its creamy, buttery texture and sweet oceanic flavor, often harvested just miles from the restaurant.
• Cardiff Crack (Tri-Tip)
  Cardiff Crack (Tri-Tip)A North County legend, this burgundy pepper-marinated tri-tip from Seaside Market in Cardiff-by-the-Sea is so famous it earned the nickname 'Cardiff Crack.' It is frequently served as a sandwich or sliced in backyard BBQs across the county.
• Dirty Flat Top Burger
  Dirty Flat Top BurgerIn a city of gourmet burgers, 'The Friendly' in North Park has achieved cult status with its Dirty Flat Top Burger. It’s a minimalist masterpiece: two smashed patties, American cheese, and grilled onions on a buttery bun—no modifications allowed.
• Wood-Fired Pizza (Cali-Baja Style)
  Wood-Fired Pizza (Cali-Baja Style)San Diego’s pizza scene has evolved into its own beast, blending sourdough techniques with local produce. Tribute Pizza in North Park is a standout, offering creative pies like the 'Dirty Chanterelle' or 'Beyoncé’s Knees' that utilize seasonal California ingredients.

Trip guide

• About San Diego
  About San DiegoSan Diego is located on the Pacific coast of California and is categorized as the site of the first permanent European settlement in the state, established in 1769. The region’s history includes thousands of years of habitation by the Kumeyaay people prior to the arrival of Spanish explorers in 1542. Historical Heritage and Architecture The city’s architectural landscape is defined by distinct historical periods.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit San Diego is from March to May or September to November, when you can enjoy mild temperatures and avoid the peak summer crowds. While summer offers the warmest beach weather, "May Gray" and "June Gloom" often bring persistent coastal fog and overcast skies. Visiting during the shoulder seasons provides the best balance of lower hotel rates and pleasant, sunny weather perfect for outdoor activities.
• Getting around
  Getting around San Diego

  • San Diego International Airport (SAN) Located just three miles northwest of downtown, this major hub offers non-stop flights from numerous domestic and international cities, with easy access to the city via taxis, ride-shares, or the Flyer shuttle.
  • San Diego Trolley (Light Rail) An efficient light rail system featuring Blue, Orange, Green, and Copper lines that connect major areas like Downtown, Old Town, Mission Valley, and the Mexican border at San Ysidro for a low fixed fare.
  • Amtrak Pacific Surfliner A scenic rail service providing frequent daily trips between San Luis Obispo, Los Angeles, and San Diego's Santa Fe Depot, offering a relaxing coastal travel alternative to driving on the busy I-5 freeway.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Always check lifeguard flags for water safety and rip current warnings before swimming in the Pacific Ocean.
  • Use the San Diego Trolley or ride-sharing services to navigate downtown and avoid high parking fees and traffic congestion.
  • Maintain a respectful distance of at least 50 feet from seals and sea lions at La Jolla Cove to ensure both your safety and theirs.
• What’s new
  What’s new in San Diego

  • FIFA World Cup 2026 Base Camps: San Diego is hosting the national teams of Switzerland and New Zealand for their tournament preparations.
  • Denny Sanford Elephant Valley: The San Diego Zoo Safari Park's largest-ever expansion opened in March 2024.
• Visit Addison↗
  Visit AddisonThe official tourism website for Addison, Texas, providing information on the town's 200+ restaurants, hotels, and major events like Kaboom Town! and Oktoberfest.