Foodie Paradise: The Ultimate UH Dining Guide of Local Favorites and New Hot Spots
University Heights is a foodie’s paradise, with an array of excellent restaurants to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal or a fine dining experience, our great neighborhood has something for everyone. There’s also no shortage of new and exciting spots to try. If you haven’t yet, pop into Sonny’s Pizza for a Negroni and a “Famous Original” pizza. Sonny’s has a cool 1980s Brooklyn, NY, vibe that fits perfectly into our hip little hood.
If you’re looking for something new for brunch or lunch, check out Dreamboat, brought to you by the team that dreamt up Kindred and Mothership in South Park. I grabbed a couple of breakfast sandwiches over the weekend, and they were divine.
And they just opened Vulture, a vegetarian “steakhouse” upstairs.
Another grand opening that’s on the horizon later this summer is the new location of Bahn Thai in the spot that Johnston’s and Small Bar once occupied. After that opens, we can’t wait to see what they do with their current location — a little birdie told me that the Bahn Thai folks are working on something cold and sweet for that spot!
As if these weren’t cool enough, did you know that we have our very own Michelin Star restaurant, Soichi?
You’ll need a reservation, but it’s well worth the wait. While you’re waiting, be sure to pop into Hatsuzakura next door or Grains a few doors down. These are just a few of the amazing restaurants we have to offer.
Plumeria Thai has the best vegetarian Thai food I’ve ever had, hands down. Red House Pizza also offers vegan and vegetarian pizzas that are phenomenal. Madison is one of my favorite spots to belly up to the bar for appetizers at happy hour. You can never go wrong with breakfast at Parkhouse Eatery.
Don’t miss out on their daily homemade muffins! And don’t forget El Zarape for a killer shrimp burrito, Kairoa, which needs no introduction, Muzita, serving up delicious African food, and Big Front Door with unbeatable sandwiches.
Of course, there are also many great restaurants on and around El Cajon Boulevard such as Pomegranate, serving amazing Russian food, Gnarly Girl Pizza, my husband’s favorite, Luigi’s Pizza, Flavors of East Africa, and Loving Hut Vegan. Mama’s Bakery is opening soon in a new building, SD TapRoom serves up a mean burger and brew, and last but not least, the Lafayette Hotel has an array of yummy restaurant offerings.
With so many fantastic dining options to explore, UH is the perfect destination for foodies looking to indulge in a culinary adventure.
You can find a map of our fabulous restaurants at www.uhsd.org/restaurants!