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Mr. Miyagi vs Mexican dad

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SD & Me

It is approximately 372 square miles. Its highest point 1,591 feet above sea level. It is known for ideal weather almost year-round. What is it? You’ve guessed right, it is “Sunny San Diego”.

My name is David Ahmed, and as Will Ferrell calls it in the movie Anchorman, I’m a “San Diegan”. I’ve been living in this beautiful city since 1995. Throughout the years I've come to explore and know some breathtaking sights and some wonderful eateries. I'm always up for outdoor activities because I like exploring new sites. Whether it’s hiking, sightseeing, or just relaxing and meditating by a beach, lake or pond. I also enjoy living it up a little by visiting new restaurants, coffee and dessert shops. 

With that being said, whether you’ve lived in San Diego your whole life or temporarily calling it your home, you'll realize that San Diego has a lot to offer. In my upcoming blogs I will be taking you from east to west, south to north around San Diego and I'll share with you my perspective on what this big beautiful city has to offer. 

I hope you get to discover some of San Diegos’ gems like I have.  

Enjoy,

DC

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Cabrillo National Park

Where....

At number one on my list for places to visit in San Diego, I am going to take you to Cabrillo National Monument. Cabrillo is located at the most southern tip of Point Loma.

Why....

I understand that it may not be one of the most fun places in San Diego but its views and history make up for it. I decided to go with Cabrillo first because it is beautiful for sightseeing and it marks where European explorers first set foot on what is now San Diego. This place was built in commemoration of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, the Spanish explorer to lead the exploration to New Spain, aka San Diego. It is now conserved as a national monument because during WW I and WW II it served as a strategic military base due to its natural geographic location.

What....

Cabrillo National Park has a lighthouse, a monument and trails. The lighthouse gives you a glimpse of what a lighthouse attendant’s job and life was like. The lighthouse is preserved with household artifacts, a Fresnel lens, and it also has a little garden outside. The trails around the park have educational posts about whales, geographic location and history. At the end one of the trails there is an artillery fire bunker which was used to protect San Diego Bay. Cabrillo’s monument is the point where you can see Coronado, the naval base and further south Downtown San Diego.

How much $$...

If you will go by car make sure you fill up every seat in your car b/c entrance fee per non-commercial vehicle is only $10. Your pass will be valid for 7 full days!

Entrance fee per walker or bicyclist is $5. Your pass will also be valid for 7 days

To learn more visit...

https://www.nps.gov/cabr/index.htm

DC

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#2 Old Town Mexican Cafe

Where…

At number two, I would like to take you to Old Town San Diego. Specifically, Old Town Mexican Cafe to get some of the best Mexican food and drinks. This restaurant is located off San Diego Avenue, across from the Whaley House Museum.

FYI…Old Town San Diego State Historic Park is conveniently about a block distance away from here, where there is a lot to see and things to do.

Why…

The reason why I feel you should visit Old Town San Diego is mainly due to its historical background, its richness in culture and food.

Cool fact: Old Town is called the Mother of San Diego. It was the first city on the West Coast where Europeans settled.

Now, why you should go eat at Old Town Mexican Cafe? Simply put it was delicious! I have been to Old Town many times, this time it was with my girlfriend Areli. We were there sort of early in the day (before 11 am) and many restaurants were either not open or were not serving breakfast at that time any more. Little to say we were sort of bummed out, but the restaurant we found will save you the hassle we went through. Long story short we walked around the streets of Old Town looking for restaurants that had great food and open for business. You’ll see what I’m talking about.

To be continued...

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# 2 Continuation to Old Town Mexican Cafe

What…

Even though, I was in the mood for a nice Mexican breakfast I ended up ordering something that in my opinion was “mexifique” (magnifique with a Mexican twist to it). We ordered the Mexican Shrimp Cocktail which was bigger than we imagined. Very generous portion of delicious fresh lemons, cucumbers, tomatoes,and avocado. The shrimp were marinated with spices which added a very uplifting flavor to the dish.

We also ordered the mini Molcajete which wasn’t ‘mini’ at all. See for yourself. The dish was served with warm handmade tortillas…mmm…yum yum. These two dishes contrast very differently, but you will not be disappointed. The tortillas were made to order.

There are almost no words to describe how good this dish was. The pictures say it all. It was served on an authentic “molcajete” which is a stone bowl Aztecs used to prepare spices and salsas.

Still don’t know what a molcajete is?

Watch the video shown below. 

How much $$…

Due to the tourist area the restaurant is located in, I feel it is reasonably priced. We got great delicious food, good size servings, and great service from our server. Not only was this a late breakfast, we got to take the leftover shrimp and eat it for dinner. That is how generous the portions are.

The Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is priced at $11.50

The Molcajete (serves 2) is priced at $28.95

To learn more visit…

http://oldtownmexcafe.com/

http://www.discoveroldtown.com/index.html

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Hotel Del Coronado

Where…

For this adventure I would like for you to experience what the City of Coronado has to offer.

Notice how I didn’t type Coronado Island?

Cool Fact: Per geography Coronado is not an island. It’s a tied island connected to land by a tombolo. What’s a tombolo? 

Although, there is a lot to see and do in Coronado, I recommend Hotel Del. It is one of those must see if you live in San Diego.

Why…

Cool Fact: In 1888 Hotel Del became the first seaside resort on the West coast

Yes, I understand that the idea of going to visit a hotel might seem kind of simple. All I ask is you don’t see it that way. Hotel Del is not only an iconic spot, but on the spookier side some claim that Hotel Del might be haunted.

Check out why it might be haunted - Scroll down to 1892 and read the story of Kate Morgan

What…

What can you possibly go do at Hotel Del? For starters, it is a great spot to enjoy an outdoor cocktail, appetizer or just enjoy the beautiful ocean beach scenery.

There are shops and several restaurants where one can dine. Talking about food, Hotel Del hosts “The Best Sunday Brunch In San Diego”, in the historic Crown Room. I can personally vouch for them by experience. A bit pricey but totally worth the experience.

Aside from enjoying the dining experience, you can also charge up in vitamin D on sunny days by the beach, the deck or by taking a pleasant walk or bike ride on the boardwalk. There are nearby locations to rent an assortment of bikes, segways, even jet skis, and boats!

In my opinion the coolest part about Hotel Del is that during the winter they have an outdoor ice skating ring. Where else in San Diego can you ice skate while enjoying a beautiful sunset by the beach!?

How much $$...

Depends on what you want to do. It all ranges from almost no money out of pocket to however much your wallet can spend. To find out more about pricing and what not I recommend you check out the sites I’ve listed.

To learn more visit…

Visitor Center

Hotel Del

Skating by the sea

There is always something happening at Hotel Del

DC

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San Diego’s Donut Bar 

Where...

For this quest I would like for you to prepare your sweet tooth and be willing to try some mouth watering donuts and draft beer! Yes, I said donuts and beer! What a concept. This place is considered by USA Today to be one of the top 10  best donut shops in America, it has been reviewed by the San Diego Magazine as one of the best restaurants in S. D, it is the one and only….San Diego’s Donut Bar

It’s located in Downtown San Diego. Off of B Street, in between Sixth and Seventh Avenue.

Why...

Did I not already mention that it is one of the best donut shops in America?

Did that not convince you?

Donuts choices are always varying and always sweet, tasty and delicious!

If that still didn’t convince you how about this…you can wash down your delicious donut with your choice of draft beer!

What...

I’ve already said it. It is beer and mainly donuts. The place sells out quick. They open their doors Monday – Friday from 7 a.m. until they sell out. Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. ‘til sold out.

Friday and Saturday evenings they re-open at 5 p.m. for a few hours. If you are lucky like me you might get a glimpse of the Donut Bars’ very own Ferrari!

How much $$...

I feel the prices are reasonable due to the exquisiteness and size of the donut you are getting. Prices do vary from donut to donut but in my opinion the prices are reasonable.

To learn more visit...

Donut Bar

Instagram

DC

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Lucha Libre Taco Shop

Intro...

Ladies and gentlemen for this round in the red corner we have TJ Dog. An all beef hot dog wrapped in hot, juicy bacon. He is best known for his grappling style. Now, introducing out of the blue corner, the undisputed, the all-timer of all tastiness, the reigning champion, the Undefeeeateeeed Seafood Burrito!

Where...

If you are wondering what this is all about, I recommend you don’t miss out on this extraordinary taco shop. It is called Lucha Libre Taco Shop. It was established in 2008 by 3 brothers born in Mexico and raised in San Diego. Their original location is situated in Mission Hills and their newest location now in North Park

Why...

This Mexican taco shop ‘aint your traditional Mexican restaurant. Wrestle mania artifacts, photos, masks, and decorations cover up every corner of the restaurant, including the restroom! It’s a must see. Aside from all the cool stuff to look at, the food is award winning. The gourmet tacos, quesadillas, burritos, and knockout dishes are…well…nothing but exceptional

What...

It is a Mexican gourmet taco shop. One can get breakfast items (served until 11 a.m.) such as the El Jefe – a burrito carefully stuffed with grilled steak, scrambled eggs, home style potatoes, topped with avocado, pico de gallo and finally dressed with a cheese and super secret chipotle sauce. Other popular fan items are the Queso Taco, Surfin’ California, and my favorite the Knockout Fries

How much $$...

Prices are relatively “wimpy” compared to the size of the food entrees. However, compared to ordinary taco shops the prices at Lucha Libre Taco Shop can be a little bit intimidating, but it’s all about the overall experience and satisfaction

To learn more visit...

taco smack down

Check this out...Lucha Libre Taco Shop was featured in the TV comedy series, Fluffy Breaks Even season 1, episode 5 starring comedian Gabriel Iglesias

DC

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Mushroom Caves

Where...

If you like being outdoors, exploring sights, and being near the ocean, then this hike is for you. Mushroom caves are located off a hiking trail in Solana Beach called Annie’s Canyon Trail. Even though this trail has been accessible to the public for a few years many people still haven’t checked it out. It took me some years to finally hear about it and go explore it for myself. Make sure to click the links to find out how to get to the starting point of the hiking trail

Directions

View of trail head entrance

Why...

To me it’s one of those hidden gems in San Diego. At the top of the trail which is the summit you get a magnificent view of the lagoon and ocean

What...

Easy to moderate trails, nature, a fantastic way to get some exercise and hollows also known as the Mushroom Caves

How much $$...

Free…except for the gas expense to drive there, food and drinks that you take with you on the hike

To learn more visit...

Park brochure and other info

Short virtual video tour of Mushroom Caves - by Dominic Fulgoni

DC

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Self-Realization Fellowship

Also known as the meditation gardens in Encinitas

Where...

Located off of South Coast Highway 101 in Encinitas you will discover the meditation gardens from the Self-Realization Fellowship Temple

1150 S Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024

Why...

It was founded in 1920 by the world known Yogi Paramahansa Yogananda. This garden is unique and a must see

What...

Amazing ocean views, great meditating nooks, and koi ponds are found within the garden. One can also sign up to volunteer to help clean or garden. Services and activities are offered throughout the week, so make sure you check out their calendar of activities here 

How much...

Entrance is free to the public

To learn more visit...

Main site of Self-Realization Fellowship

To learn more about the Yogi Yogananda

DC

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Through the process of this blog I hope you were able to see what the beautiful city of San Diego has to offer. Hopefully you learned a bit about its history, some historical locations  and most importantly I hope you get to explore some of the sites I blogged about. 

Note: all locations that were posted are my suggestions and recommendations only. It does not necessarily mean that you have to visit them in the order listed. 

Thank you again for reading and checking out this blog... 

DC