Hey Ty,
If the whole sheep thing is not appetizing, I can suggest a few things in SD. We lived there for a few years...
Since you will be flying into Lindburg Field (I'm assuming- as it's downtown SD) There are tons of places to go... Please bear in mind that if you want to move about, you MUST plan for traffic as it takes forever to get anywhere on I-5 or the I-15. If you are staying in the downtown area, you can check out Balboa park- lots of cool stuff and architecture and the zoo. There's also the Embacadero - where you can see the big naval ships- last time I was there, they had an aircraft carrier docked there. Maybe a trip to Coronado- very scenic.
As for food, there are a few Persian places downtown which are awesome but the names escape me. There is a place called the Yardhouse- 250 beers on tap and great food. A must try.
Up the road a bit in Solana beach (about 20 minutes north of downtown (still inside San Diego county) along the PCH (pacific Coast highway) there are a few restaurants that offer great food with the ability to sit out side and look at the ocean. Pretty cool.
Further up the road in Ocean side (about 1 hour north of downtown SD- and the uppermost part of the county aka north county) along the PCH there is a Cuban place called Azafran. It is spectacular! (and I've eaten Cuban food in Miami and this is on par!)
Other places to try are Alberto's in Oceanside (they make huge burrito's for about $3.50--- ask for the "california"--It has fresh guac and salsa and french fries--- very good and huge!
Another place, found all over San Diego is called Rubio's- Their claim to fame is "fish tacos"- I know it sounds weird and I was hesitant to try them but put those ideas out of your head and try one before judging- those fish taco's are one of the things I miss most about SD... (yes, they're that good)
Finally, if you go up to the north county area, you can go east a bit to a town called Escondido. They have a huge cruise/car show called " Cruisin' Grand" every friday starting around 2-3 pm and lasting till 9pm. They have oldies blasting out of the center island speakers, karaoke on the street, games for kids, raffles, tons of cars, car clubs of all kinds. Very family/pet friendly- lots of shops (art galleries, bars, pizza)- live music, everything - the streets are blocked off and there is a huge police presence. It's always a good time. (and it's free!!) Best car show venue I've ever been to!
If I think of any other places I'll post up.
Enjoy the stay (you may decide to stay after your visit)
Did you get my message I left for you.
