Restaurants to try in San Diego

The Grass Skirt Tiki Bar
One of the newest San Diego restaurants combines the tiki scene with SDCM Restaurant Group-operated cocktails. The menu features Hawaiian-themed eats from corporate executive chef Brian Redzikowski, while specialty cocktails are creations from beverage director Steven Tuttle. Cool things to know about this restaurant? There are three drinks on the menu that when ordered, trigger a number of special effects, including the sounds of thunder and lightning and flames shown swirling on a screen behind the bar. Additionally, there’s also a secret six-drink menu consisting of the cocktail team’s tributes to iconic beach drinks of the 1980s—throwbacks including Sex on the Beach and the Mudslide. Reservations are in high demand, so book early. If you’re going to try your luck with a walk-in, the best bet is to show up before 6:30 PM. M-Sun 5 p.m.-2a.m. 910 Grand Ave, San Diego, CA 92109. 858.412.5237. thegrassskirt.com

Pop Pie Co.
This new pie concept has been honing its menu at pop-up events as it readies its first brick-and-mortar eatery. The gourmet pie shop will serve both savory and sweet varieties for breakfast, lunch and dinner along with beer and wine and an array of espresso drinks fueled by the city’s top roasters. Savory pies range from their classic chicken pot pie to a veggie curry pie. Some sweet pie favorites include pumpkin cream cheese and salted caramel chocolate fudge. Closed on Mondays. T-Su 7 a.m.-7 p.m. 4404 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92116. 619.501.4440. poppieco.com

Cake de Partie
For those looking for a sweet treat, this buzzy Kearny Mesa Cafe is one of the best new San Diego restaurants to offer savory snacks, elegant plated desserts and creative drinks (including a variety of flavored soju) in a bright and funky space with hip furniture. Recommendations include molten lava cake, fried roti and caramelized banana dessert—it’s served in a cast iron skilled and drizzled with an Ovaltine sweet sauce. Closed on Mondays. T-Su 12 p.m.-10 p.m. 4685 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111. 858.987.0033. cakedepartie.com