Cultural Center in Spring Valley

"There is an extra fee to enter the Japanese Friendship Garden, which is an expression of friendship between San Diego and its sister city, Yokohama. There’s an upper and lower strolling path where you can see koi pond, landscaped gardens and a Zen garden viewing deck. It’s a very tranquil space."

"Feel the beauty of the waterfalls and greenery as you stroll the pathways of the Japanese Friendship Garden. Skip right past the entrance fee the third Tuesday of every month. As well, explore the Japanese rock garden and take in the current indoor display."

"The Garden originated as a teahouse during the 1915–16 Panama-California Exposition and now lies on two acres near the Spreckels Organ Pavilion."

"The House of Pacific Relations International Cottages showcases the traditions of 34 national groups, some of which have their own cottages (build originally for the 1935 Exposition). The goal is to promote multicultural understanding through exhibits and programming. (Location: Balboa Park)"

"A post shared by Figaro Dessert Cafe (@figarodessertcafe) on Sep 28, 2017 at 6:27pm PDT. While previous spots on this list featured fun and chill vibes, Figaro Dessert Café brings class and elegance in serving great coffee and desserts. They offer a large menu filled with intriguing flavors and an exciting display of gelato, cakes, macarons, and tarts."

"Relatively new on the vegan culinary scene, Plant Power-Fast Food was opened by the founders of Hillcrest’s Evolution Fast Food and offers a broad menu of plant-based sandwiches, salads, wraps, and burgers along with super smoothies and decadent desserts. Signature dishes include the Rambler Burger with crispy onion rings, American “cheese,” BBQ sauce, lettuce, and tomato, the Southwest Avocado Wrap filled with a zesty black bean and “beefy” medley of chipotle “aioli,” avocado, salsa, and kale mix, and the raw Jumbo Veggie Wrap packed with spinach, avocado, cashew hummus, sprouts, and cucumber in a whole wheat tortilla. Plant Power-Fast Food is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner."

"Any item you would find on a typical fast food menu is proudly plant-based, non-GMO, organic and free from additives and preservatives. Get a “beefy’ patty for your burger or opt for the black bean version, on options such as the Big Zac (sound familiar?), the holy guacamole or mushroom swiss with a side of crispy fries or kale slaw. Kids can get a meal with chicken nuggets, mini corn dogs, or a cheeseburger and finish it off with a milk-shake, organic soda or kombucha."

"Board and Brew has been a staple in Del Mar since 1979 that serves simple sandwiches with no preservatives, no substitutes and no frozen meats. The secret sauce is another hook that tastes good on any sandwich. But try the Baja Chicken with marinated chicken breast, bacon, and melted jack cheese on a toasted French baguette with mayo, tomato and lettuce."

"We asked our waiter at South Draft in Mission Beach, where is the best Mexican food in San Diego?. He immediately recommended Oscars Mexican Seafood as a great local, hole in the wall place to grab fish tacos in San Diego. He warned us there may be lines, and we avoided them by visiting the shack near La Jolla at lunch time."