Guide to entertainment and nightlife in San Diego, California – Part 7

In the words of singer Kenny Chesney, “Everything gets hotter when the sun goes down.” Ken must surely have had San Diego in mind. The city becomes a nighttown playground for grownups once the celestial orb sinks into the Pacific and the millions of bright electric lights illuminate the skyline. Evening adventurers in San Diego can choose from among hundreds of restaurants, lively bars, exciting dance clubs, swanky lounges, and all kinds of top-notch shows.

The area’s restaurants are legendary, ranging from cozy little cafes to tasty fresh seafood by the bay to superb four-star dining. A popular with the locals, try Bella Luna for some authentic Italian. Their Spigola Arrosto, an herb-crusted cut of fresh halibut with a ginger-lemon grass sauce is unforgettable. For some patio dining overlooking the sea, check out Crab Catcher; their Sunday champagne brunch is out of this world! Anthony’s Sea Grill offers inexpensive mouth-watering seafood in a casual atmosphere and boasts the envious title of being voted “best seafood in San Diego” for eleven years in a row! this is a great place to take the whole family. For a tender dry-aged prime cut of beef, a succulent rack of lamb, or a thick ranch pork chop with apple confit, Molly’s in the downtown area is the place to be. Any taste you can imagine will be satisfied in San Diego: Afghan, Thai, English, Australian, French, German, sushi, vegetarian, Spanish, Persian, Lebanese, Mediterranean, Latin, Irish, Hawaiian…the list is virtually infinite.

Follow up a scrumptious meal with a fine show. Popular musicians and bands perform regularly at a number of San Diego venues. Take in a live stage production at the Cygnet Theatre, or help solve an intriguing whodunnit at the Mystery Cafe. If you’re looking for something different, be amazed at the belly dancing action at Belly Dancing Divas. To enjoy a great meal while viewing a live show, try the Pine Hills Lodge, or book a dinner cruise with one of the numerous charters to sample gourmet foods while soaking in the great ocean views. San Diego Opera provides top-quality productions like Aida, Phantom of the Opera, and Mary, Queen of Scots. Enjoy the classical sounds of Berlioz, Brahms, Ravel, or Stavinski, along with contemporary favorites, with the talented San Diego Symphony.

For some exciting late night action, San Diego has everything from neighborhood dives to classy cigar bars to sophisticated champagne lounges. Dance the night away at Altitude Sky Bar, a trendy rooftop club in the Gaslamp Quarter. For some authentic live Irish tunes, try The Field Irish Pub, and for some hot Latin beats, check out Heat. One of the most popular night spots in San Diego is The Onyx Room, a classic cocktail lounge with an adjoining trendy nightclub. If a quieter evening is more your style, you’ll love Anthology, a wonderful piano bar.

No matter how you decide to spend your evenings during your visit, you’ll find something you’ll love. San Diego might be a scenic fun-filled city by day, but her nights are truly magical!