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Comic-Con Restaurant Guide

Check out my Comic-Con Restaurant guide for Downtown San Diego. I am featuring places to grab a great bite and locations offering specials for Comic-Con 2024.


Gaslamp Sign


Gaslamp Quarter

This area is located directly outside of the San Deigo convention center. It is marked by the well-known Gaslamp sign.


Greystone Steakhouse

Greystone

Greystone Steakhouse is a great option for a steak in the Gaslamp area. They have a beautiful space and a fantastic bar! If you can get a reservation here, you will want to try their tomahawk steak. It is done very nicely. Their mashed potatoes are divine! The space is an upscale location, and it will be great to unwind and relax here after Comic-Con. They also have a full bar and knowledge bartenders.


The Melt

Yes, I’m adding the Melt here because it is a reliable and dependable location! This is a spot that you can stop in and grab a bite to eat, and it will be consistent! No reservations needed, go ahead and dive in and get yourself a bite to eat. There is additional seating on the second floor of this restaurant as well.


Lumi Rooftop

Lumi

Lumi Rooftop sushi bar is not to be missed! If you can get a reservation here, and even if you can’t it’s worth the wait. I highly recommend checking out their brunch! There’s live music and a great mix of Japanese fusion. I recommend ube pancakes. Every time I’ve been here, I’ve heard rumors of many Comic-Con industry parties going on, so it is a great place too possibly run into a celebrity!


Mary Janes

Mary Janes is a great breakfast spot! I recommend checking out this location because it is connected to the Hard Rock. The Hard Rock is notorious for being a celebrity studded space during Comic-Con. I recommend getting a reservation if you want to secure time at a table. You can also order food to go here. I’ve done this several times while I have been waiting in line for a Comic-Con activation. It’s also right next-door to the closest Gaslamp Starbucks so it makes a nice pairing.


ghiradelli

Ghirardelli Ice Cream

I must mention Ghirardelli because I am an absolute sucker for ice cream! I highly recommend checking out their sundaes. You can also pick up some great souvenirs to take home to those who cannot attend Comic-Con! Everyone loves their chocolates!


Little Italy

Little Italy is small, yet flourishing part of Downtown San Diego filled with a vibrant and eclectic food scene.


born and raised

Born and Raised

One of my favorite restaurants in downtown San Diego is Born and Raised. This restaurant done by the Consortium Holding Group will not disappoint. If you cannot snag a reservation, I highly recommend getting to this location when it opens at 4:30 to grab a seat at the bar. They offer some happy hour bites Monday-Friday which are incredible! I suggest trying the Dirty Hashbrowns and you cannot go wrong with their table-side Caesar Salad.


Roman Wolves

Roman Wolves

Roman Wolves is a newer restaurant in Little Italy. This Italian restaurant serves up Roman cuisine. I can honestly say this was the best cheese pasta I’ve ever had. Cheese Wheel pasta is extremely popular in Little Italy, but I highly recommend going to this location if you want to give it a try. They also offer happy hour options as well. I recommend the Limoncello Spritz if you are looking for a refreshing drink, I find it less bitter than an Aperol Spritz. As always, I recommend making reservations during Comic-Con, but this location does have a large bar so you might be able to sneak in without.



Filippis Pizza Grotto

For pizza, I highly recommend Filippis in Little Italy! It has a very classic feel and a lot of seating! There are some parking spaces here because they have their own lot, which is extremely rare for this area. You can order a giant salad and lots of pizza and just hang out and spend a lovely evening here.

little Italy sign

Kettner Exchange

Kettner Exchange is a great option in Little Italy. They have an American cuisine menu and a rooftop bar. That is a great and lively place to hang out. I recommend making a reservation if you want to grab a table otherwise check in at the bar and see if there is space. I absolutely love throwing some complex drink orders at their bartenders and they 100% nail it each time!

wolfies

Wolfies

For unique experience, I recommend heading to Wolfies. Inside the restaurant you will find a gorgeous fully lit rotating carousel bar! The location has photo opportunities galore! This is an American French fusion restaurant, and you will not be disappointed by the cheese on these entrées! I recommend the cheeseburger here, yes, the cheeseburger! Their French fries are also a wonderful addition to any meal and I always add a glass of bubbles.



Morning Glory

Morning Glory

Morning Glory is also a Consortium Holding restaurant. This delight for the senses is also home to some of the most fabulous fluffy pancakes! They do not take reservations and you will need to have a commitment to wait for a table, but it is worth it if you don’t already have plans or a badge for the day. Their morning cocktails are very delicious, and you can also find the dirty hashbrowns here which are perfect to start off your morning!


East Village

The East Village is a quickly growing neighborhood with many foodie options!


Hinar

Hinar

Hinar is a beautiful pastry shop in the East Village. This is a bit off the beaten path, but it is so worth the trip! They have delicious cakes and fantastic coffees! You can even get a well-made tea here. The space is gorgeous, and you will not be disappointed! You can check out my video on it here.


Callie

Callie

Callie is in the East Village and has received several Michelin nods. They typically have space at the bar, but I do really recommend reservations here as well. If you are looking for something light, I highly recommend the hummus or Labneh. Always make certain you have enough pita bread for each person. Their cocktails are also exceptional, and their specials are very noteworthy!


The Neighborhood

The Neighborhood

If you can get into the Neighborhood, I absolutely recommend it! The burgers here are exceptional, and the atmosphere is very fun. Youngblood is located inside of this location, it is a speakeasy that offers a curated cocktail experience. It has a preset menu that includes an apple cocktail and three subsequent cocktail courses. Everything is designed to your taste and specifications, and it is a beautiful and exceptional experience. You can see my video on it here.


Food Specials During Comic-Con 2024

Press release information of Comic-Con food specials throughout San Diego


Tech Beso

Techo Beso

Escape to an oasis in the sky at Techo Beso. The rooftop restaurant and bar recently debuted a brand-new menu featuring internationally-influenced cuisine. Enjoy bites perfect for sharing including Jerk Chicken Lettuce Cups, Habañero BBQ Wings, and 5 Spice Brisket Bao Buns made with a plum glaze and orange-ginger marmalade, along with Churro Bites finished with a dulce de leche & dark chocolate drizzle for something on the sweeter side. Quench your thirst with a robust selection of cocktails including the Sand in My Boots, a pineapple & tamarind margarita; the Coba, a spa-inspired cocktail made with elderflower, cucumber & lime; and the BBL, a tropical adventure made with coconut cream, rum and botanical aperitivo. For those looking to elevate their experience even more, Techo Beso offers cabana rentals and bottle service, perfect for large parties and celebrations. 

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Techo Beso 



Tajima East Village


Tajima East Village

I chose you, Tajima! After a long day exploring Comic-Con, re-up with a bowl of tasty ramen at Tajima. Their newly expanded East Village location, less than a ten minute walk from the Convention Center festivities, is the perfect spot to gather with friends, fill your stomach, share some drinks and dig through your Comic Con swag bags. Tajima’s ramen offerings reflect authentic Japanese techniques with modern twists and come in a variety of flavors including their original Tajima Ramen, made with their signature Tonkotsu pork broth, as well as more adventurous selections such as Carnitas Ramen, Spicy Sesame Ramen and Vegetarian Ramen. In addition to their regular beer and sake offerings, Tajima will be serving a Pokemon Sake Flight specially made for Comic Con, featuring three different Pikachu, Bulbasaur, and Squirtle themed cocktails with mini figurines included. Gotta catch ‘em all!

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Tajima


The Blind Burro

The Blind Burro

Just three blocks from the San Diego Convention Center aka Comic-Con central, The Blind Burro is a must-try Mexican restaurant specializing in Baja coastal cuisine with a unique twist on traditional Mexican dishes. Escape the convention madness with Blind Burros’ extravagant Beetlejuice themed cocktails and specials! Try out the refreshing Lydia-Rita, a blackberry margarita featuring Cutwater Blanco Tequila Triple Sec, blackberry puree, agave, soda, and topped with a lime. Or try the Burro Juice, a shooter featuring Cutwater Blanco Tequila, Midori, sour apple, and lemonade. Once you have tried the exciting Beetlejuice cocktails, move on to some delicious bites. Start off with the Queso Especial made with triple cheese sauce, crispy smoked paprika potatoes, house made chorizo, pico de gallo, cilantro and house made corn tortilla chips. For your entree, move onto the Street Tacos with your choice of Carnitas, Carne Asada or Pollo Asada including citrus-chile de arbol, onions and cilantro or the Birria Burro-ito with slow braised beef shoulder, butter rice, queso oaxaca, red cabbage, crema, onion, queso cotija, cilantro, pickled red onions, diced avocado and salsa de birria. Also, don’t miss out on the Beer & A Shot Special all day everyday, which includes a 24 oz can of Estrella Jalisco and a shot of Casamigos Blanco or Casamigos Jalapeno Tequila.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Good Time Design


Moonshine Flats

Moonshine Flats + The Deck 

Looking to let loose and take a break from Comic-Con? Head on down to the biggest honky-tonk party, happening every night at Moonshine Flats! Nestled in the heart of the lively Gaslamp quarter, Moonshine Flats is the ultimate destination for country music enthusiasts, line dancers, and party goers alike. Start your evening out at the adjoining Deck at Moonshine Flats. This open air extension offers a Smokehouse BBQ menu, unique drinks, and fun games including corn hole, shuffleboard, and giant beer pong. During Comic-Con, The Deck will be going all out with a Borderlands themed weekend, complete with speciality cocktails. Get in on the action with The Nuke Margarita Shooter, a mix of Milagro Reposado, mango puree, lime juice, simple syrup, and completed with a tajin rim. Try out the nuclear purple Eridium Lemon Drop cocktail, made with Hooch Brothers Vodka, lemon juice, simple syrup, and purple glitter. And if you need some energy before hopping on the dance floor, go for the Handsome Jack's Coffee Old Fashioned, a delicious mixture of First Light Coffee Whiskey, cold brew, simple syrup, and chocolate bitters. Once you have refreshed with some fun cocktails, bring out your cowboy boots and join the excitement on the Moonshine Flats side of the venue. Get ready to learn some new moves and enjoy the fun during the live country music performances on July 26 and July 27! Whether you’re a seasoned line dancer or just looking for a good time, Moonshine Flats promises memorable experiences during Comic-Con weekend. 

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Good Time Design


Puesto at the Headquarters

Puesto at the Headquarters

Located less than a mile from the San Diego Convention Center and nestled near historic Seaport village, Puesto at the Headquarters  is a taco lover’s paradise. Puesto is renowned for award-winning luxury tacos that will be sure to fill you up after a long day of Comic-Con. With options such as the Short Rib Quesabirria, filled with crispy melted cheese, braised short rib, Jalisco salsa, pickled radish and classic guacamole, the Mushroom taco with crispy melted cheese, garlic braised seasonal mushrooms, pickled onions, stone fruit serrano salsa and hearts on fire, and seasonal additions like the new Swordfish taco featuring marinated local swordfish, avocado salsa, sunflower matcha salsa and pickled jicama slaw, there’s something for everyone! Compliment your meal with a specialty cocktail made with additive-free agave spirits such as the Honeydew Margarita with mezcal, honeydew, and fresh lime or the Paloma with Cimarron blanco tequila, Fever Tree grapefruit soda, and fresh lime. Kick off your Comic Con weekend at Puesto’s happy hour on Friday 3 pm-5 pm, or come anytime to savor the vibrant atmosphere and good vibes. 

Photo Credit: Individually labeled in file name



Union Kitchen and Tap 


Union Kitchen and Tap 

Known for its farm-to-fork dining experience, Union Kitchen and Tap is the perfect place to refuel for weekend brunch and dinner in the heart of the Gaslamp. Dinner highlights include Skillet Cornbread made with jalapeño and aged white cheddar, served with burnt honey and maple butter; Braised Short Rib made with tasso grits, swiss chard, crispy onions, and braising gravy; along with shareable flatbreads, salads and more. Brunch highlights include the Short Rib Breakfast Burrito made with beer braised short rib, scrambled eggs, cotija cheese, avocado, french fries, and chipotle cream; Breakfast Flatbread made with bechamel, mozzarella, andouille, cherrywood smoked bacon, roasted tomato, sunny farm eggs, chives, maple syrup; along with Micheladas, Bloody Marys, and bottomless mimosas. Craft cocktails including the Some Like it Hot (served hot or cold) made with Jack Daniel's Single Barrel, Montenegro Amaro, honey, cinnamon, and lemon; along with beer and wine are also available throughout the day. Reservations can be made here

IPhoto Credit: James Tran


Le Parfait

During Comic-Con, a visit to Le Parfait is not just a culinary delight, but an elegant escape from the hustle and bustle of the convention. Located less than a mile from the Convention Center in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, Le Parfait offers a true taste of Paris with its award-winning French bakery delights. Indulge in an assortment of macarons, decadent desserts, flaky croissants, and artisanal gelato. More menu highlights include the avocado toast flight, short rib breakfast hash, croque madame, french BLT sandwich, and an array of sweet and savory crepes. Whether you’re grabbing a quick breakfast, a leisurely brunch, an afternoon coffee, or a delightful dessert after a long day of events, Le Parfait provides a tranquil oasis reminiscent of a Parisian cafe. Be sure to stop by and let Le Parfait’s charming ambiance and gourmet treats elevate your Comic-Con experience.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Le Parfait Paris 


The Crack Shack Little Italy

The Crack Shack Little Italy

The Crack Shack, San Diego’s family-friendly gourmet fried chicken destination, is a must-visit for all Comic-Con attendees, young and old. With a location in Little Italy, just a hop skip and a jump from the Convention Center, this vibrant eatery offers a playful, casual atmosphere that's perfect for unwinding after a day of panels and cosplay. The menu, which utilizes high-quality ingredients to craft delicious comfort food, features something for the whole family. Choose from sandwiches, salads, and sides including unique options like the California Dip made with Jidori chicken, pickled vegetables, crispy onions, French onion dip, and a torpedo roll or the Power Bowl with chicken al pastor, chato’s salsa verde, pickled red onions, soft boiled egg, avo, arugula, warm quinoa, and baby cilantro, or feed the whole fam with a Big Flock which includes whole bird bone-in fried chicken, 12 nuggets, large fry, classic slaw, 6 biscuits & 2 cookies. With spacious outdoor seating, eclectic decor, and a lively vibe, it’s an ideal spot for fans to gather, share their convention experiences, and enjoy top-notch food. 

Photo Credit: Courtesy of The Crack Shack


Contact me to have your location added to the Comic-Con Restaurant Guide. Some reviews are based upon hosted experiences - all opinions are my own.

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