Here are our favorite spots to eat, shop, and play in Clairemont.

Clairemont Food and Drink 

Aladdin Cafe

This casual, strip-mall joint offers Mediterranean eats inside or out on the patio. The robust menu includes a solid lineup of vegetarian options and harder-to-find dishes like Turkish tajine, zarb, and borak in addition to shawerma and gyros.

5420 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard

Havana Grill

Settle into Havana Grill’s soft bench seats with a plate of plantains and lechón. This Cuban restaurant centers organic and locally sourced ingredients in traditional dishes like arroz con pollo, ropa vieja, and yuca fries. Douse it all in mojo sauce—a classic blend of olive oil, garlic, and citrus.

5450 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, Suite G

Yakitori Taisho

Tucked away in a Smart & Final parking lot is a cozy spot with a broad selection of yakitori and sake. The jazz music–filled eatery is just as popular as its sister restaurants, Convoy’s Yakyudori and Kearny Mesa’s Hinotez, so make a reservation to nab one of the few seats.

5185 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard

The Butcher N Cheese

This hidden gem is a craft burger and local beer joint serving meat (including bison, turkey, and lamb) and plant-based burgers, hot dogs, seafood, and more. On Fridays and Saturdays, stop by The Butcher N Cheese at 6 p.m. for live music and $5 beers. 

4705 Clairemont Drive, Suite C

Barrio Donas

This bakehouse slinging Mexican-inspired donuts landed a spot on our March 2023 staff favorites list for its tart guayaba flavor, but there are plenty of other bites worth the visit here, including mazapan and jamaica donuts. They sell tortas, tamales, and coffee, too.

4714 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard

Mike’s Red Tacos

San Diegan Mike Touma took a birria tour of Mexico to help develop the recipes at his birria-focused food-truck-turned-storefront. Mike’s Red Tacos loads its titular tacos with beef birria, but you’ll also find the slow-simmered meat in unexpected places, like ramen, fries, and a Taco Bell–inspired “crunchstack.”

4310 Genesee Avenue, Suite 104

Feng Cha Tea House

A just-as-casual alternative to the coffee date, Feng Cha is a bustling spot ideal for catching up with friends or getting to know romantic prospects over foam-topped teas and tiny cakes. Try the crème brûlée dirty boba, which comes threaded with crunchy brown sugar bits.

4340 Genesee Avenue, Suite 107

Homestyle Hawaiian

This hole-in-the-wall slings giant plates of Hawaiian comfort food, including Spam musubi, loco moco, and Kahlua pig. Breakfast is technically served all day, but you’ll have to arrive early to grab an order of macadamia nut pancakes—they always sell out. 

7524 Mesa College Drive

Sipz

Plant-based diners, rejoice: Everything at this Asian-fusion outpost is vegetarian (and most dishes are vegan), from the kung pao “chicken” and salt-and-pepper “shrimp” to the sushi and pho. Before digging into your main dish, split an order of vegan crab rangoons with the table.

5501 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard

Mongolian Hot Pot

Grab your chef’s coat. At this family-owned Mongolian restaurant, you’ll select from six different broths (including two vegetarian options) and dunk in an array of meats, seafood, veggies, and noodles. Their weekday lunch special for one is a steal.

4718 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard

Clairemont Shops & Boutiques

Comickaze

A San Diego mainstay for more than 20 years, Comickaze vends popular and independent titles for graphic novel and manga fans. They always see a long line of customers during San Diego Comic-Con weekend, but it’s worth stopping by year-round to poke through the packed bookshelves. 

5517 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, Suite A

Balboa International Market

Making mezze? Pick up everything you need for your chef-ing at Balboa International Market, which carries a swath of tough-to-find groceries from the Mediterranean and beyond, plus pre-packaged tabbouleh and dolmas to go. 

5905 Balboa Avenue

Bridge Thrift

Around 84 percent of items donated to thrift shops end up in landfills, a stat Bridge Thrift works to combat. The secondhand shop ensures even unsellable items receive a second life (through recycling or upcycling) and donates 100 percent of its profits to local organizations like Hope for San Diego.

4220 Balboa Avenue

The Fruit Stand

A nondescript warehouse hides one of SD’s most vibrant outposts for local and organic produce. In addition to seasonal fruits and veggies, shoppers can find snacks, nuts, honey, salad dressings, and firewood.

4330 Morena Boulevard, Suite C

Aquarium Fish Depot

Anyone who spent their childhood dentist visits enthralled with the waiting room fish tank can fulfill their aquarium dreams at this well-stocked shop featuring finned friends (both fresh and saltwater varieties), live coral, and marine invertebrates like shrimp, snails, and crabs—and everything they need to thrive.

5121 Santa Fe Street, Suite F

BirdSmart

Find a new feathered friend (and all their required supplies) at BirdSmart, where staff has been hand-raising birds onsite for more than 26 years. Even if you’re not in the market for a pet, drop by to say hello to baby finches, macaws, and other avian infants.

4688 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard

Clairemont Sportscards

This little shop is packed wall to wall with collectable cards. Neatly organized by player and year, the stock primarily features NFL, NBA, and MLB heavy hitters (plus a nice assortment of Pokémon cards).

3949 Clairemont Drive, Suite 4

Explore Clairemont

Olive Grove Park

This spacious community park gets its moniker from a shady, bench-filled olive grove. The ample green space, picnic tables, and playground make it a great spot for kids’ birthday parties, while NBA aspirants can hit the park’s open basketball courts.

6075 Printwood Street

Marian Bear Memorial Park

Perched in San Clemente Canyon, the 467-acre Marian Bear Memorial Park provides three miles of creekside walking and hiking paths. While most treks are flat, adventurers seeking a challenge can follow finger canyon trails up to the top of the mesa.

5491 Genesee Avenue

Tecolote Canyon Golf Course

Tee up at this 3,161-yard golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., and Sam Snead. A large practice facility with a driving ranges, putting and chipping greens, and more offers space to perfect your game before hitting the links.

2755 Snead Avenue

Tecolote Canyon Natural Park and Nature Center

This park’s nature center is an ideal spot to learn about the canyon’s flora and fauna, including the owl (or tecolote) after which it is named. The preserve features about 6.5 miles of trails open to runners, hikers, and bikers.

5180 Tecolote Road

Vinya

A glass of malbec probably won’t help your balance in triangle pose, so plan to hit this yoga studio’s onsite wine bar after your 5:30 p.m. “happy hour” flow. The bar also serves bites like salads, sandwiches, and charcuterie, making it a good brunch spot for pals embracing both fun and wellness.

6185 Balboa Avenue

Indigo Dance

Partner dances like salsa and bachata form the focus at this all-ages studio (though they also offer a women’s-only Latin fusion class). While classes typically start at $35 per drop-in, Indigo sometimes holds $5 intro events where you can pick up a few beginner steps.

5035 Shawline Street

Golden Rishi Qigong & Tai Chi

This martial arts studio offers tai chi, qi gong, and taekwondo classes for adults, teens, and kids four years and older. Golden Rishi offers free intro classes for beginners, and little ones ready to go all-in can sign up for summer camp programs that run for one or two months. 

7380 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, Suite 110

The post Neighborhood Guide: Clairemont appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

Mostra Coffee

Courtesy of Mostra Coffee

Chef Phillip Esteban, former research and development chef for Consortium Holdings and proprietor of White Rice Bodega, Wildflour Delicatessen, and Weapon Ramen (plus a few other creative ventures all over town), never seems to slow down. On July 15, he’ll be opening White Rice Morena in Linda Vista, quickly followed by Wildflour in Liberty Station around September.

So when we asked him where he spends his free time, the San Diego native made sure we knew not to expect white tablecloths or stuffy atmospheres.

“These are places that I normally dine on a regular basis,” says Esteban. “As much as I love big name restaurants, big name chefs, and will frequent them, this [list] is a ‘if you go here, you’ll probably see me’ situation.”

If you’re looking for recommendations on where to unwind, chow down, and drink up in San Diego—according to a chef—Esteban knows just where to send you (leave your pearls at home). Here’s what he had to say, in his own words:

TJ Oyster Bar

Courtesy of TJ Oyster Bar

TJ Oyster Bar

Order: Fried Fish Tacos 

I’ve been going to TJ Oyster Bar since I was in high school. I remember as a kid, we would go play golf across the street at Bonita Golf Course. It’s down the street from my aunt’s house, where I would spend a lot of time in summers with my cousin.

We’d go play golf and then we’d go over to the original store. It has maybe 15 seats tops. Everything on the menu is good, but they’re really known for their fried fish tacos. Fresh ingredients—you can watch them fry it fresh in front of you—good tortillas, good sauce. It’s just nostalgia for me.

4246 Bonita Road, Bonita (additional locations in Bonita and Chula Vista)

Juan Jasper

Known For: Rotating Dinners & Wine

It’s also very small, probably 12 seats in total. Juan Jasper is one of those neighborhood spots. It’s the same owners as next door’s Sepulveda Meats, and it’s like this little French bistro where the menu is written in chalk, or the specials are, at least. They have maybe 10 items that are constantly rotating. It’s fun! You never have to get the same thing twice.

1216 28th Street, Golden Hill

Longplay HiFi, coffee highball

Photo Credit: @jay.villa

Longplay HiFi

Order: Coffee Highball

I love Longplay HiFi. I’ve known Gibrán for a few years. Frankly, he was the first one to bring the vinyl listening bar scene and energy to San Diego. He did it in his way and his style, which is very true to form for the jazz kissa model, and having been to jazz kissas in Japan, it’s very reminiscent of that. It’s the first, and most authentic vinyl listening bar experience.

2547 Imperial Ave., Suite B, Sherman Heights

J & Tony’s

Order: Any Cocktail

Obviously, coming from CH and loving their spots, I didn’t want to go the route of selecting the next beautiful, amazing thing, but they have such a big impact on the city. One of their most low-key spots, and actually my favorite of the whole company, is J & Tony’s. They make my favorite cocktail, a variation on a Manhattan, and it’s just amazing. It came off the menu, but I’m sure a lot of other people ask for it.

631 Ninth Ave., East Village

Monarch

Request: Chris Provo, Barber

I wanted to add a lifestyle feel to this list, and Chris has been cutting my hair for 10 years plus. When I was at Consortium, there were 700 people who worked there when I was the R&D chef going around, and everyone would ask where I got my hair cut. I’d just send them to Monarch. Great friend and great barber.

485 Tenth Ave., East Village

Taisho

Courtesy of Taisho

Taisho

Order: Yakitori

Taisho is like the Asian version of CH. They have a group of their own within Convoy, and Taisho’s yakitori is the highest level. The guys prep all the meat skewers at one location, but Taisho gets the best cuts. It’s small and quaint, and the two chefs are there all the time. The quality is the highest.

Around March, they have firefly squid, which is amazing. Year-round, I get the chicken teba, the wing, and I love the black miso cod. They have an amazing selection of sake as well.

5185 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., Kearny Mesa

Mostra Coffee

Courtesy of Mostra Coffee

Mostra Coffee

Order: Choconana Cold Brew

The head roaster, Mike Arquines, is actually a chef by trade. We opened The Cork & Craft in Rancho Bernardo back in 2013 together. He was the executive chef and I was the chef de cuisine. He left shortly after we opened to focus on being the head roaster and co-owner for Mostra.

So I met all the other owners, and I was part of the original cupping group that helped them develop their Brazilian roast that’s now kind of like their mainstay. For their Choconana, he makes a banana milk and then blends it with their cold brew for this chocolatey, roasty, nice banana undertone. It’s probably my favorite on the menu.

Multiple locations in Carmel Mountain Ranch, 4S Ranch, and Bankers Hill (Hillcrest coming soon)

Shino Sushi

Courtesy of Yelp

Shino Sushi

Order: Omakase

I think the point of this list is that there are so many hidden gems, and sometimes other sushi places take a lot of the limelight. But Shino is right up top with quality. Sushi Chef Robert [Nakamura] is amazing. If you get an opportunity to sit down in front of him, take it. Everyone, their whole staff, is always so hospitable and nice and knowledgeable.

838 W. Ash St., Downtown

8th & B Poke

Courtesy of Yelp

8th & B Poke Co.

Known For: Fresh Poke

The owner of 8th & B Poke Co. is Chris “Toppie” Aure, the son of the family that owned Zarlitos on 8th Street in National City. For me, Zarlitos was a very iconic place growing up. Great Filipino food, family-style, but what Chris added when his parents retired was when he started to sell poke inside the restaurant.

It was very popular until the pandemic, when they had to sell and close, but everyone was always asking, “Where can we order your poke?” He started to sell it party-tray style, and now it’s very popular for people within our community. We only go to Chris for poke. He was trying to open through two years of delays, but finally opened a few weeks ago. He’s open until he sells out, and he’s selling out every day.

806 B Ave., National City

Thanh Tinh Chay

Known For: Vegan Vietnamese

I went for the first time with Koy Sun, who does all of our artwork and murals for Open Gym and White Rice. Every week, we either go climbing together or go eat somewhere, and now this is a frequent spot for us to do business meetings. I love eating all kinds of food, including vegan, and the food here is so great.

Vietnamese food has a freshness to it, and Thanh Tinh Chay is a place that I don’t think people frequent enough. The owner is so sweet, talking to every table, and everything is vegan top to bottom. My partner is pescatarian, but we eat vegan a lot, and this is one of our favorite spots.

4591 El Cajon Blvd., Little Saigon in City Heights

So Saap

Courtesy of So Saap

So Saap

Known For: Lao & Thai Street Food

There’s a big Laotian community here, but there aren’t many restaurants that are highlighted. So Saap is in the neighborhood I grew up in and I’ve been going here for quite some time.

Their lemonade is made with fresh sugarcane with machines you’ll see in Laos, or Vietnam, or even down in Mexico. It’s delicious, but so is everything, from their laab to their crab fried rice. I order it all the time, probably at least once a week.

4710 Market St., Chollas View

Lang Books

Courtesy of Lang Books

Lang Books

Buy: The Books, obviously

The group that owns and operates Lang Books is Swish Projects, some of the biggest creatives in San Diego. They own this very small, curated bookstore on El Cajon Boulevard, and it’s such an eclectic place.

It’s not your typical Barnes & Noble or even Verbatim in North Park. They carry the things that are harder to find: magazines, smaller prints, zines, variations of artistic cookbooks. Within the arts and culture community, they definitely have a pulse on the next generation.

2903 El Cajon Blvd., Unit 2, North Park

This interview was lightly edited and condensed for clarity.

The post Top Chef Phillip Esteban Shares His Favorite SD Hot Spots appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

glorilla-sdm-0223.jpeg

February 9

GloRilla

Fresh off an appearance at the Grammy Awards as part of the hip-hop 50th anniversary tribute performance this past Sunday, Memphis-based emcee GloRilla is taking her talents to the House of Blues in San Diego. Before the rapper’s recent collaboration with Cardi B, “Tomorrow 2,” reached the Top 10 on the Billboard charts, her viral song “F.N.F. (Let’s Go)” turned her into a burgeoning rap superstar seemingly overnight. | 1055 Fifth Avenue, Downtown

gregory-page-sdm-0223.jpeg

February 10

A Vintage Valentine’s Concert with Gregory Page

Get in the mood for Valentine’s Day with an intimate performance full of original music from artist Gregory Page at the Coronado Public Library at 1 p.m. this Friday. Winner of the 2021 San Diego Music Award for Best Album of the Year, Page is a seasoned performer with an ever-growing discography of timeless songs about love. His skillful guitar playing, deeply romantic lyrics, and velvety vocals will be on full display. Seats are first come, first serve, so register ahead of time to secure a spot at the show. | 640 Orange Avenue, Coronado

February 11

City Heights Multi-Cultural Festival of Love

Enjoy a free, family-friendly festival promoting diversity, solidarity, and love at Officer Jeremy Henwood Memorial Park in City Heights this Saturday. There will be more than 25 booths representing community non-profit organizations like La Maestra Clinic and Ocean Discovery Institute, as well as several cultural performances from Drummers Without Borders, the San Diego Ballet, Fern Street Circus, and more. | 4455 Wightman Street, City Heights

Sofie Ramos: “Life Raft”

Rising artist Sofie Ramos’ newest solo exhibition “Life Raft” is opening at Bread and Salt Gallery this Saturday from 5 to 8 p.m. Ramos employs everyday objects like laundry, shoes, and furniture, crafting them into grouped sculptures using geometric patterns and shapes. As with her other works, expect “Life Raft” to be an example of how art can transform the ordinary into something extraordinary. | 1955 Julian Avenue, Logan Heights

Vista Makers Market & Bar Hop

Shop from dozens of vendors offering handmade goods like jewelry, home decor, art, and more and enjoy suds from a handful of breweries all located on Keystone Way. More than 40 sellers will set up shop at Dogleg Brewing, Eppig Brewing, and Helia Brewing. Taking place from 12 to 5 p.m. this Saturday, the Makers Market and Bar Hop is free to attend. | 1347 Keystone Way, Vista

kodo-sdm-0223.jpeg

Kodo

Japanese taiko drumming ensemble Kodo presents their newest touring production “Tsuzumi” at the Balboa Theatre this Saturday from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Kodo (meaning “heartbeat”) has been instrumental in the further development of Japan’s performing arts and has had the honor of performing at the Nobel Peace Prize Concert in 2001, at the 2002 FIFA World Cup in Japan, and in a total of 53 countries around the globe. The drummers will play selections from their four-decade-long history alongside new compositions. | 868 Fourth Avenue, Downtown

moniker-general-sdm-0223.jpeg

Lovers + Friends

Enjoy a Galentines-themed pop-up market put on by Shop Moniker and Bourdon this Saturday from 12 to 3 p.m. at Moniker General in Liberty Station. The $50 ticket entry includes a glass of wine courtesy of Bourdon, access to several food, art, and lifestyle vendors, and a curated swag bag (which includes discounts to several local businesses) upon arrival. | 2860 Sims Road, Point Loma

black-comix-day-sdm-0223.jpeg

February 11-12

Black Com!x Day

This two-day event at the WorldBeat Cultural Center recognizes the work of the many Black writers and artists who have been instrumental in creating legendary characters like Spider-Man, Black Panther, Batman, and Blade. There will be a special focus on Black-owned businesses and publications in the comic sphere, and the free celebration will include cosplay, games, music, and more. There will also be two special panels featuring some of the comic book and film industry’s most prolific Black creators. | 2100 Park Boulevard, Balboa Park

cardiff-kook-run-sdm-0223.jpeg

February 12

Cardiff Kook Run

Start off your Super Bowl Sunday with a feat of endurance at the 2023 Cardiff Kook Run. The race will take runners from the “Encinitas” sign on Highway 101 on a loop past the iconic Cardiff Kook statue (officially named Magic Carpet Ride) and above several scenic surf breaks before heading towards Cardiff State Beach. The run will also feature a Super Bowl-themed costume contest with a handful of categories, including best football-themed costume and best “kook”-inspired ensemble. | 505 S Coast Highway 101, Encinitas

The post 9 Things to Do in San Diego This Weekend: February 9–12 appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

18-premium-decor-4.jpg

So, you’ve deep-cleaned your house in the spirit of spring, brought that pothos back from the brink (we’ve all been there), and dropped off that box of mystery novels and old camping gear at the donation center…but your crib is still feeling a little blah. Revitalize your home with updated furnishings or fresh accents to make your dwelling a relaxing space to chill after work and an envy-inducing spot for entertaining.

We’ve highlighted the best of San Diego’s decor scene to help you bring your Pinterest board vision to life. These 10 local shops offer unique furniture and distinctive decor.

02-home-and-hound-2.jpg

Home + Hound

This North Park shop proves that chic furnishings and four-legged friends can live together in harmony. Home + Hound provides boho-inspired textiles, furniture, decor, and dishware, plus anything you could want for your pup, like stylish bandanas and leashes and comfy dog beds. Well-behaved pets are welcome in-store, so you and Rover can pick out your new favorite art print together.

06-le-dimora-2.jpg

Le Dimora

Creating your dream space can be overwhelming, so let the pros take over. Le Dimora’s award-winning designers will help you refresh one room or your entire home with their thoughtful eye and luxurious collection of home furnishings and accessories, available at their Pacific Highlands Ranch showroom. From new Mediterranean to modern farmhouse, they offer designs to fit every vibe.

03-bench-home-1.jpg

Bench Home

This curated store, tucked away in the Kensington neighborhood, will become your go-to for charming home accents, especially for the kitchen and bath. Bench Home owner Helen Bonar gathers inspiration from her travels and features many vendors from outside the states. You’ll spot hand-painted bowls, gold-hued barware, and other home accoutrement, including many budget-friendly options.

07-bixby-and-ball-1.jpg

Bixby & Ball

Few design stores encapsulate coastal chic quite like Bixby & Ball—natural materials and breezy, neutral colors rule at the company’s two Solana Beach outposts. Transform your home into a seaside oasis with plush sofas, comfortable rugs, and unique lighting options (picture wicker lamps and birdcage-like chandeliers).

08-rustic-homes-1.jpg

Rustic Home

Rustic Home has manufactured furniture from their San Marcos showroom for more than three decades. Combed every virtual homeware emporium and San Diego warehouse and still can’t find the dining room table in your mind’s eye? Customize the size, stain, and other features of your furnishings to transform your abode into a space only you could dream up.

10-pigment-1.jpg

Pigment

What began as a gallery to showcase local artists turned into the best place in town to grab beautiful plants and eye-catching furniture pieces. Pigment’s three locations (in North Park, Del Mar, and Liberty Station) offer a fantastic selection of art and furnishings, much of it crafted by the most creative minds in San Diego. Owners Chad Anglin and Amy Paul quip that “buying for Pigment is a little like treasure hunting,” and shopping here is similar. Every trip inside this store includes the potential to find something incredible.

11-hold-it-home-1.jpg

Hold It Contemporary Home

You won’t find anything for sale on this company’s site—after all, how can you purchase a chair without sitting on it first? Their Mission Valley showroom lets you kick your feet up on your new coffee table, ensure the rug color is blue, not gray, and visualize your revamped space without the guesswork. Their expert consultants are happy to help you choose between cherry and mahogany and handle details like ordering and delivery.

12-kern-co-design-1.jpg

Kern & Company

It’s no surprise Kern & Company is among the mainstays in Solana Beach’s Cedros Design District. For almost thirty years, the design destination has served as a one-stop shop for all things interiors, from high-quality furniture and bedding to window treatments and bespoke cabinetry—plus professional decorating services to help you bring it all together.

13-premium-decor-1.jpg

Premium Decor San Diego

Premium Decor works with fellow local businesses to offer custom-made sofas, sectionals, beds, and other furniture at accessible prices. Whether you’d like them to craft an exact replica of your grandpa’s old chair or you simply feel really passionate about the correct level of couch cushion firmness, the Pacific Beach–based company will construct the perfect piece to fit your needs.

15-d3-home-1.jpg

D3 Home Modern Furniture

At this Little Italy storefront, comfort meets style (so you don’t end up with a gorgeous living room couch that no one wants to relax on). D3 Home vends sleek, modern furniture for every room in the house, including innovative and ultra-functional pieces like a sofa that converts into—wait for it—bunk beds.

The post 10 San Diego Stores to Check Out When Redecorating Your Home appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

Shopping Small – main

Courtesy of Home + Hound

We love San Diego’s small businesses, and you should, too. In these pages we’ve highlighted a sample of the many independently owned and effortlessly cool retail shops that make up our city. At these brick-and-mortars, both old and new, you can score a secondhand statement piece, shop handmade accessories, discover local brands, and fall in love with shopping small all over again.

This holiday season, help support local by visiting some of our favorite haunts around town. Got your credit card? You’re about to do some damage.

Clothing & Accessories

Shopping Small – Whiskey Leather

Whiskey & Leather

Soon after One Paseo shopping center began welcoming tenants, fashion entrepreneur and self-described tomboy Ariel Hujar opened Whiskey + Leather fashion boutique. This high-end men’s and women’s clothing shop stocks luxury brands from across the country, including One Teaspoon, Spell, Scotch & Soda, and For Love and Lemons. They also carry stylish accessories and home goods such as candles, books, and barware.

3665 Caminito Court, Carmel Valley

Gold Dust Collective

Quality comes first at Gold Dust Collective, where all the accessories are handmade and sourced as sustainably as possible. The North Park storefront carries goods from three local artists: Flight of Fancy jewelry, Haberdash hats, and El Gato Montes leatherwork. Shop here for unique readymade pieces like beetle pendants and adorned felt hats, or to start customizing one.

3824 Ray Street, North Park

Shopping Small – Fresh Yard

The Fresh Yard

Hip-hop and street culture inspired the formation of The Fresh Yard. This independent boutique carries some of the most anticipated brands in streetwear, such as Raised by Wolves and Black Market Tailors, along with its own signature clothing and accessories like T-shirts, hats, and beanies. With a strong tie to the local art and music communities, The Fresh Yard releases exclusive collaborations and often hosts art shows and live events. When they’re not running the store, the team also organizes food and clothing drives to donate to people in need.

41 E 8th St, National City, CA 91950

Bradley Mountain

Tyler Axtell started this line of refined leather and canvas bags, backpacks, and jackets in a garage in Ocean Beach, and later moved to a store in East Village. All the items in this adventure goods collection—such as the best-selling camouflage Wilder backpack—are made to withstand travel and camping, but their polished look also works for the day-to- day. The bags are made to last, and free repairs are included for each purchase. The company had to close their 17th Street storefront, but they’re still crafting the line right here in San Diego and you can order online.

Shopping Small – Cradled

Cradled Boutique

Onesies, cardigans, teething necklaces— this just-opened Alpine boutique serves the wee one in your life. Consider Cuddle + Kind dolls, which are knitted by hand in Peru, and Stokke, a sophisticated Norwegian furniture brand specializing in cribs and high chairs that grow with your baby.

2507 Alpine Boulevard, Alpine

Rob and Sophie Machado, owner of Salt Culture

Salt Culture

Sophie Machado isn’t bashful to admit that, yes, being married to a professional surfer has its perks. She’s followed her husband, Rob, to countries around the world, including Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and his native Australia—but she jokes that in humid countries, you can only lie about for so long. So instead, her habit is to jump in a tuk tuk or taxi and drop into the heart of a city’s artisan district to see firsthand the care and craftsmanship that go into the imports we buy. Sophie’s never been one to gloat about those experiences. Instead, she’s on a mission to make something more of them, and that’s where Salt Culture comes in. The boutique stocks products from their travels and their favorite local brands.“Salt Culture is basically a scrapbook, and a place to tell our stories,” she says. It’s an homage to the girl she once was, a college student living on a shoestring; and the guy Rob’s always been, a surfer with an affection for supporting local. Salt Culture stocks Rob’s signature Smiley Face merch in the form of sweatpants and shirts, and it’s also the only brick-and-mortar storefront in the world where you can buy a custom-made Rob Machado surfboard. Sophie just launched her own loungewear line, too, named “Reawakening.”

930 South Coast Highway 101, Encinitas

Beauty & Self Care

Four Moons Spa

Take a step into Four Moons Spa’s Bali-inspired oasis. The spa’s stated focus is on “wholeness”—meaning the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual layers of each guest. Visitors can experience everything from an astrological reading to a massage. They recently introduced a hammam treatment, inspire by Muslim public bathing culture, which can be done with a therapist or self-guided. A shop on site is full of products to keep up the Zen long after you leave.

775 North Vulcan Avenue, Encinitas

Shopping Small – Cleo

Cleo Skincare

You won’t find a sweeter skin care studio than Cleo. They specialize in “sugaring,” a hypoallergenic hair removal technique that uses lemon, sugar, and water to gently deplete your follicles. Go in for a service or grab some products from their retail space to ramp up your own holistic health routine. They make their own botanical hydrosols (aka toners), and Rose and Neroli are the best sellers— give them a go if you’re seeking hydration or an overall vibrancy boost.

5514 La Jolla Boulevard, Bird Rock

Stephanie J, owner of Formula Skin Lab

The Formula Skin Lab

When aesthetician Stephanie J saw her former students having a hard time finding work after they graduated from Bellus Academy beauty and wellness school, she knew she’d found a gap in the market.“You never saw in textbooks how to care for darkers kin tones,”she says.“There wasn’t really a place dedicated to them.” So, J opened up Formula Skin Lab, a beauty bar that specializes in acne correction, pigmentation, facials, waxing, makeup, and body treatments for darker skin. Book an appointment or stop in, and her team will offer a consultation to get to know you and your skin type, then recommend products and in-house treatments based on your specific needs.

The company opened in the middle of the pandemic, when J felt there was a community need for self-care. “For us, representation is a big factor,” she says. “We want this shop to be a casual vibe. You might hear Erykah Badu or Miguel when you walk in, have some wine. Our main goal is that you feel like you’re at home—or at your aunt’s house!”

6244 El Cajon Blvd #29 San Diego CA 92115

Shopping Small – Shop Good

Shop Good

It’s easy to swap out your run-of-the-mill beauty products with nontoxic replacements during a visit to Shop Good. This clean beauty and wellness boutique stocks items like natural makeup, deodorant and supplements. Founder Leah Kirpalani is committed to supporting female- owned and Black-owned beauty brands, such as Movita, 54 Thrones, and Unsun Cosmetics. In addition to browsing their large retail selection, you can schedule a facial at either location.

3665 Paseo Place, Carmel Valley; 3027 University Ave, North Park

Home

Shopping Small – Home and Hound

Home + Hound

Home + Hound is not your average pet shop. In fact, it’s not entirely a pet shop. The inventory’s a true 50/50 split between home decor and dog accessories— and an affirmation that, yes, dogs and people can live together stylishly. Owner Brittney Garbani, a dog owner (and cat and chicken owner), has carefully vetted the brands she carries, all of which skew sophisticated and never corny. Interspersed among them you’ll find homewares spanning textiles, planters, and kitchen goods for the humans.

3813 Ray Street, San Diego, California 92104

Shopping Small – Altered

Altered Decor

It’s all about the experience when you walk into Altered Decor. This home beautification shop is designed for you to easily envision your next home redo: owner Rochelle Manns arranged it to show you possibilities for a whole room at once, rather than standalone pieces. Shop high-end furniture, art, rugs, planters, vases, and more; the East Village business also offers patented floral reed diffusers so your space can capture all of your senses.

1227 J Street, East Village

Love & Aesthetics

The decor, gifts, and jewelry at Love & Aesthetics can only be described as unique, but even if it’s not to your taste, you definitely have that one friend who’ll dig it. From vases shaped like spacemen, peeled bananas, or anatomical hearts to coffee cups labeled “poison,” the foul-mouthed inventory is definitely something to be appreciated. Peruse, purchase, and leave feeling a bit more edgy.

621 West Fir Street, Little Italy

Mud Lily

Known for its pottery classes and workshops, Mud Lily doubles as a ceramics studio and retail shop selling locally made, one- of-a-kind planters, plates, mugs, bowls, vases, and pots. Co-owners Jo Ann Molter and Susan Tull think of it as a community gathering space for people to create with clay, and they welcome ceramicists of all skill levels. Shop here for an ever-changing selection of unique kitchenware and home accessories.

2888 Adams Avenue, Normal Heights

Urban Fusion Decor

Hunting for a sofa, sectional, or chair? Why not build it yourself? That’s Urban Fusion’s business model. You can also buy a piece right from their showroom, but the greater appeal is in customizing your own. Make an appointment and sink into the different styles—some are inspired by San Diego, like the Cardiff Sofa.

145 West Washington Street, Hillcrest;

Shopping Small – Small Batch

Small Batch

This boutique thrives on uplifting local makers and independent artisans, stocking decor and gifts like 1502 Candle Co. candles, Pan&Tea jewelry, and whole coffee beans from Fuzz Coffee Roasters and Cowpoke Coffee. It’s owned and operated by best friends Brittany Peña and Lacy Bird who recently rolled out Small Batch’s online shop, so you can support local in person or at a distance.

8332 La Mesa Boulevard, La Mesa

Logan Mitchell, co-owner of Collins & Coupe

Collins & Coupe

For cocktail hounds, Collins & Coupe is a true one- stop shop. Rimming salt? Check. Ice cube molds? You bet. Glassware? Married owners Gary McIntire and Logan Mitchell have amassed over 1,000 pieces. And that’s just their vintage collection.

Their names might be familiar from Cellar Door, the supper club they launched in 2011. After becoming ingrained in the culinary community, they saw a clear niche to fill in the form of a cocktail supply store. Enter Collins & Coupe in 2017.

“While many assume we’re only geared toward restaurant and bar professionals, we’re actually set up for the home bartender—even people who have never made a drink before,” Mitchell says. “We have chosen staff with a bartending background so they can help you every step of the way.”

The duo has taken the same care in selecting their inventory and regular vendors.“We implemented goals to bring on more Black, LGBTQ+, women, and POC vendors and employees. Using our money to uplift people and communities that have to work harder for every opportunity is not just important, but necessary.”

From women-made mixers like Perfectly Cordial and El Guapo to San Diego artist Susie Ghahremani’s enamel pins, Logan says, “There is nothing in the shop that we don’t fully stand behind.”

2876 El Cajon Boulevard, North Park

Vintage

La Loupe Vintage

At La Loupe Vintage’s two locations, you can shop unique clothing, like sweater vests decorated with cats or maybe a green two-piece suit from the ’80s. You can also find fun accessories like patterned scrunchies, costume jewelry, and classic denim from the ’70s to now (’90s patchwork included).

3337 Adams Avenue, Normal Heights; 4646 Park Boulevard, University Heights

Seaweed & Gravel

Here, motorcycles are parked next to dresses. Surfboards beside lived-in boots. It fits considering owner David Patri’s history in the apparel industry, and his love for motorcycles and surfing. The shop partners with custom moto builder Brady Young to rev up the inventory.

1144 North Coast Highway 101, Leucadia

Bad Madge

Shop all that is fun, funky, and thrifted at Bad Madge. Tanya McAnear’s vintage shop stocks both kitschy and cool finds from the early 1900s through the ’90s. In one stop, you could score a midcentury chair, grab some 1920s cocktail glasses, and round it out with a bold dress from the ’80s.

2205 Fern Street, South Park

Mila

Just as the name Mila combines the names of co- owners Michelle Gonzalez and Laura Weiss, the inventory is a mashup of their personal styles. There’s “the delicate” (Laura), represented in feminine-forward apparel like heels and silk scarves, and “the daring” (Michele), statement pieces like chunky jewelry and shoulder- padded blazers.

2879 University Avenue, North Park

Brittany Joseph, owner of Badlands Vintage

Badlands Vintage

Time your visit to Badlands Vintage just right: The vintage furniture shop opened last November in Oceanside with weekend-only hours. That’s because the rest of the time, owner Brittany Joseph is usually sourcing more one-of-a-kind pieces to add to her store’s stylish postmodern collection.

“I take time to find pieces because I want everything to feel really timeless,” she says. “Instead of having to replace your interiors once a trend is over, everything here is a statement piece that you can keep forever.”

Joseph collects design-forward furniture, vases, mirrors, and more, with an equal emphasis on form and function. “I look at all of my furniture as art,” she says. “Yes, you want it to be functional. But you also want it to reflect your personality and style.”

The Badlands style embraces Southwestern and desert influences with an urban touch mixed in. They are all pieces that speak to her, and to her dedicated repeat customers. In some cases, Joseph has helped people design an entire space with Badlands.

That’s why accessibility is incredibly important to the longtime thrifter, who says she keeps her price point at a place where it’s not going to break the bank. “Vintage should be for everyone,” she says. “I started with vintage because I didn’t have a lot of money, but I still wanted my house to look amazing; I wanted pieces with character, pieces with a story.”

She started selling her finds out of her home. Then she moved to a booth inside Sea Hive Marketplace, and even got her own warehouse to store the larger items and sell through Instagram. It all led to her finally opening up shop last year, and she hasn’t slowed down since.

1845 S Coast Hwy, Oceanside

Sea Hive

This 13,000-square-foot antique mall in Oceanside displays the antique treasures and thrifted must-haves of more than 100 sellers. But in between the bountiful vintage offerings, you’ll also come across handmade goods from local artisans, like leather wallets or ceramic mugs and vases. In short? You’re walking out with something.

1555 South Coast Highway, Oceanside

Gifts

Vitreum

Takao Saito originally came here from Japan to study English, but later opened the minimalist gift shop Vitreum to sell modern Japanese tableware and other specialty home decor items. Most of her inventory is made in Japan—or by Japanese artists in the US—including bonsai trees, vases, incense, kimonos, ornaments, hanging terraria, and skin care products. The small shop is a great place to find unique gifts for those who need some extra Zen in their home.

619 West Fir Street, Little Italy

Shopping Small – Simon Limon

Simón Limón

This “shoebox of a shop,” as owner Alexandra Pérez Demma affectionately calls it, is brimming with brightly colored gifts crafted by independently owned businesses and artists on both sides of the border. She supports over 40 of them, mainly Latinx- and female-owned—and Pérez Demma is a jeweler herself, who crafts her accessories right on site. Pop in, say hi, and you won’t leave empty-handed.

2185 Logan Avenue, Barrio Logan

Rosamariposa

After successfully landing the San Diego Zoo as her first wholesale client, Monica Covarrubias felt confident she could turn her dream business into a reality. Now, as the owner of Rosamariposa, she hand- selects jewelry and textiles that are custom-made in Indonesia, Turkey, and Brazil. The shop carries affordable earrings and necklaces, seed bead bracelets, headbands, mala beads (used for meditation), dreamcatchers, and other handmade textiles.

611 West Fir Street, Little Italy

Re-Find Off Main

An old pickup truck is parked outside this rustic storefront in downtown Vista, which offers an indoor-outdoor experience for shoppers to browse gifts, accessories, and unique items for the home. Every month, the shop moves outside for a Saturday market featuring handmade products from local vendors, with the goal of supporting other small-business owners.

146 Eucalyptus Avenue, Vista

Claudia Rodríguez-Biezunski, owner of Sew Loka

Sew Loka

Claudia Rodríguez-Biezunski says she never imagined she’d own a sewing studio. Growing up, she was no stranger to the art: Her father owned a denim factory, and her mother sewed clothes for her and her five siblings. But she wanted to study upholstery design. A class project to construct a cover for a couch cushion changed her path—she sewed on handles and made a handbag instead. That’s when it clicked. “When you learn how to sew, you can make anything,” she says.

Rodríguez-Biezunski opened Sew Loka in 2013, first in Bankers Hill, then she relocated to Barrio Logan. Over the years she developed a line of bags and clothes that she markets as “exclusive and wearable AF.” There’s quilted purses, leather crossbody bags, and denim jackets, all made from upcycled materials.

Sew Loka was one of the innumerable stores that had to close their doors in March 2020 and come up with a new plan. At first, she leaned into her sewing skills and made masks (10,000 of them). Summer came, and she started to worry—not only about her business, but her neighbors, too. She says the shops along Logan Avenue are owned by people with community ties to Barrio Logan, and if they close, that puts the neighborhood at risk for gentrification.

This led her into another role she never expected for herself: community organizing. She teamed up with Alexandra Pérez Demma, owner of Simón Limón, to find a way to bring much-needed foot traffic back to the barrio.

Rodríguez-Biezunski figured out how to apply for grants and a permit to operate outdoors, and she helped other business owners navigate the process. This led to Walk the Block, a weekly event that transforms Logan Avenue’s sidewalks into an outdoor market. Rodríguez-Biezunski says it saved her business, and that some artists have since been able to open their first storefront: “That’s basically what we wanted—for there to be a strong business community here, where we could all lean on each other.”

2113 Logan Avenue, Barrio Logan

Vinyl Junkies Record Shack

Vinyl Junkies was born out of a mobile record shop turned swap meet that was eventually realized into the permanent South Park store it is today. Co- owners Eric Howarth and Tim Mays (the latter also owns The Casbah) accept all genres of used records, from funk to punk, classic rock, jazz, soul, and hip- hop. Head to the “Digger’s Den” for rare and oddball titles, all priced at $3 or $5.

2235 Fern Street, South Park

Shopping Small – Little Dame

Little Dame

You never know what you might find in Little Dame. The proudly female-owned boutique along Normal Heights’ Antique Row opened in 2015, and in 2019 it became a combination gift shop/tattoo parlor—yes, every tattoo artist is female, too—making it a perfect place to find some art to give away, and some to keep forever.

Sea Hive in Liberty Station, 2750 Dewey Rd #103, San Diego

The Rising Co.

This co-op retail space is shared by small-business owners who value local, handmade, and sustainably sourced products. Five new merchants recently joined their roster, and under one roof you can shop their variety of home goods, gifts, plants, and more. There’s even a coffee shop to keep you caffeinated while shopping. As a community-focused hub, The Rising Co. also offers an outdoor space to bring people together for socially distanced events or fitness classes on the weekend.

332 South Coast Highway, Oceanside

Books

Nancy Warwick, owner of Warwick’s

Warwick’s

Books are in Nancy Warwick’s blood. The store was founded in Minnesota in 1896 by her great-grandfather, W. T. Warwick, who ran it there and at a new location in Iowa for 43 years altogether. After his wife died, W. T. sought to relocate again, and saw that the former Redding’s bookstore in La Jolla was up for sale. W. T. bought the store, changed the name, and married the former owner’s widow. Ownership of the store passed down through the generations, and it’s now the oldest continuously family-owned and operated bookstore in the country. Nancy was just two years old when her parents took over, and her grandmother worked there until age 98.

“The store was part of our daily life, and every night at dinner my parents talked about it,” Nancy says. “They talked about the customers and staff, about what was selling or not. If there was a problem, they invited our input.”

Nancy’s parents wanted her and her sister to know from a young age that the store belonged to all of them, and over time it became part of her identity. Today, the staff still uses the dumbwaiter she used to ride up and down as a kid.

While Warwick’s has always carried a mix of products—books, gifts, art supplies—they haven’t been immune to changes in the retail environment, including the emergence of big-box stores, evolving technology, and the dominance of online shopping. She credits their success to exceptional employees (their head bookbuyer has worked there for 33 years!), loyal customers, and a great selection of goods. The store is also known for its events and signings with local and nationally acclaimed authors, and continues these events virtually.

7812 Girard Avenue, La Jolla

Shopping Small – Verbatim

Verbatim Books

Verbatim houses a wide selection of titles to please every customer, whether you’re looking for classics or books by local authors. They stock both new and used (and even plastic dinosaurs). It’s a place not only for shopping but also selling and trading books, or (current health rules permitting) curling up in the big room in one of their cozy chairs to read.

3793 30th Street, North Park

Farenheit 451 Books

Stuff your eyes with the wonder of this eclectic collection—works dedicated to The Wizard of Oz, poetry books bound in leather and gold, comic books, even a signed copy of the store’s namesake. They just added an art gallery, dispersed among the books to mix in a little visual art with your reading.

325 Carlsbad Village Drive, Carlsbad

The Book Catapult

Stop into The Book Catapult for recommendations from co-owners Seth Marko and Jennifer Powell, who share their top reads on their website and one “book of the week” on their Instagram. Check in for their next virtual author interview or book club discussion.

3010 Juniper Street, South Park

Hillcrest Newsstand

This newsstand may be the last of its kind in San Diego, especially after Paras Newsstand closed in 2019. Magazine readers will appreciate the variety: there are fashion titles, celebrity gossip, and publications on hobbies such as coin collecting and fishing stacked alongside popular national titles. They also own Newsstand at Westfield UTC mall. Long live print!

529 University Avenue, Hillcrest; 4545 La Jolla Village Drive, University Town Center

Plants

Botanica Home and Garden

Half garden center and half woodworking space, this shop equally reflects the interests of its married owners, Caitlin Brooks and Ellis White. She’s got the green thumb; he’s the owner of Anvil Metal & Wood Works. Together, they’ve created a collection of healthy plants and White’s handmade plant accessories, along with other home goods.

The couple also carries San Diego makers, like Paradise Native’s macramé and Eliza Sloane Jewelry.

1909 Cable Street, Ocean Beach

Shopping Small – Wild Island

Wild Island Collective

Wild Island Collective doesn’t stop at stocking run-of-the-mill houseplants. They’re pros at sourcing foliage plants, or plants grown for decor that often sport leaves with pops of color. Think Pink Princess Philodendrons and Alocasia Black Velvets. Owner January Newland and her fellow plant experts also provide plant styling services: They evaluate your space, propose plants that would prosper best in it, and help you place them.

3504 Adams Avenue, Normal Heights

Eden

You could say green thumbs are in Jeff and Marsi Thrift’s DNA. Both grew up in and around agriculture; they lived on a farm together, and they even dabbled in floristry before operating their first plant shop, North Park Nursery. All that led to where they are now, running their second family-owned nursery, Eden. Their daughters have even joined to source products from local growers and vendors.

“We like to consider ourselves a plant- lover’s paradise,” Marsi says. “We want to give the plant community the therapy they’re looking for. We want to be known as a community shop, a place where you get the customer service you might not get at the box stores.”

Eden operates as a boutique plant nursery, specializing in interior plants, pots, and food gardens. They opened in 2017, and thanks to the support of the community, the Thrifts were able to double in size in 2020. Looking ahead, Marsi says they plan to host events when it’s safe to open at full capacity.

“We love being in University Heights,” she says. “Our customers are our priority. If they aren’t happy, we are out of business.”

4636 Park Boulevard, University Heights

Emerald & Ivy

In between creating floral masterpieces, Mishele Freeman opened a plant-filled storefront for when you need to add a little more green to your everyday. The shop carries a rotating selection of popular plants, along with ones that you might not find elsewhere. Whether you’re a green thumb or a greenhorn, Freeman has tips to keep your plants healthy.

2367 30th Street, South Park

Thistle

This shop has been in Ocean Beach for over 47 years, under its current ownership for over 22. Select field-fresh flowers designed by floral experts Melanie Freed and Shannon Pierce, score locally grown succulents, and find houseplant varieties sourced from area greenhouses. Inside, find small-batch gifts like handmade candles, soap, and pottery.

4822 Santa Monica Avenue, Ocean Beach

The post Our Essential Guide to Shopping Small in San Diego appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

Louis Vuitton Sunset Catwalk at the Salk Institute

Giovanni Gianonni

Designed Arrival

The Blue Line

When students disembark from the new Blue Line trolley at UC San Diego, they cross paths with the work of poets, artists, and scientists who’ve made an impact at the university. Conceptual artist Ann Hamilton embossed the 800-foot pathway with 1,300 quotations sourced from the Geisel Library for the quilt-like concordance. The new trolley route is a critical development for the city, serving as physical and intellectual linking of the US-Mexico border through Downtown and UTC.

Subterranean Design

Wildlife Explorers Basecamp

It’s the most ambitious project in the history of the San Diego Zoo. After two years of planning, the 3.2-acre former Children’s Zoo has been transformed into an $87-million state-of-the-art, multi-ecosystem experience. With much of the design going underground, it was a huge engineering feat for Pacific Builders Group, navigating tunnels and Komodo Kingdoms during a global pandemic.

Wonderwalls

Betty Larkin

Never mind wallpaper. The designer on everyone’s lips brings her own wall power. Artist Janie Rochfort is founder of Betty Larkin, the in-demand multidisciplinary design studio focusing on artwork and megawatt murals. Rochfort makes enduring statements by maximizing wallspace with graphic treatment and custom design. On her CV: A Love Island set, Lonny magazine offices and closer to home, Shop Good and Communal Coffee.

Beauty Splurge

Chanel

It’s beyond the beauty counter. Way beyond. The new stand-alone Chanel boutique at Westfield UTC is an immersion into fragrance, makeup, and skincare products, along with an exclusive selection of très chic eyewear—like Telluride-tested shields or pearl-detailed specs for work. The boutique’s black-and-white design recalls house codes.

UCSD North Torrey Pines Living

Tomoko Matsubayashi

Free for Architecture Lovers

Kidsketch

Ready your pencils. From the Hotel Del to Chula Vista Library, the second Saturday of every month is all about KidSketch. Courtesy of the San Diego Architecture Foundation, the free virtual art lessons are aimed at teaching the next gen how to draw iconic San Diego structures. Next up? Cabrillo Bridge in August and North Park Water Tower in September.

Local Collaboration Powerhouse

Nixon

From Metallica to Bones Brigade, Nixon remains unmatched at securing collaborations with collector cred. Last year, the Carlsbad-based brand rolled out Nixon x Grateful Dead. This year’s time bomb is Nixon x Independent. In the 70s and 80s, Independent’s skateboard trucks were designed to grind rails and empty pools. Today? Wrist candy.

Style Moment

Louis Vuitton

San Diego made fashion history when Louis Vuitton conducted a sunset catwalk at the Salk Institute. Glitterati (Vogue editor Anna Wintour, starlet Gemma Chan) descended upon the brutalist icon for the 2023 Cruise collection. “The architecture, with the sea as a horizon, the raw cliffs, it’s searing,” exclaimed artistic director Nicolas Ghesquière. Shimmy in the collection; it’s available at the new Westfield UTC boutique in November.

New Architectural Neighborhood

North Torrey

While UC San Diego claimed the #1 employer ranking in San Diego, its campus has been undergoing its own architectural feat. The La Jolla-based Safdie Rabines designed the award-winning North Torrey Pines Living and Learning Neighborhood. At 10 acres, it’s the university’s most ambitious new build yet—blending learning, living, cultural pursuits, commercial endeavors, and bike-friendly pathways.

See full list of contributors here

The post Best of San Diego: Style & Design appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

Even though they’re very minimalist slipons, it takes about 72 hours to make a single pair. Our shoes are handmade by Turkish artisans and Syrian refugees in Gaziantep, Turkey—I randomly came into contact with a gentleman at one of my favorite Encinitas coffee shops, Lofty, who happened to own a small atelier in Gaziantep. After he returned, we stayed in close contact and began prototyping and sampling. The artisans there have been constructing these types of shoes for over five generations. It’s beautiful. All the materials are sourced locally within an 80-mile radius, and we don’t use any steel molds or synthetics like modern footwear. This greatly reduces the water waste and toxic chemical runoff that’s so common in the footwear industry. The soles are vegetable-tanned leather, and each stitch is done by hand with two large needles.

The 100 percent copper rivet through the sole allows for conductivity between your body and the earth. The rivet is handhammered by me—my workspace is my garage, not glamorous but it gets the job done—and has direct contact with the bottom of your foot on the KD1 acupuncture point, as well as the earth’s surface, allowing the abundance of free flowing electrons found on the earth’s surface to enter your body. There are a large variety of possible health benefits in allowing these electrons to neutralize your body’s internal charge.

Raum – tent

Raum

@raumgoods

Raum – Tyler

Chris Straley

Raum – Grounded

The post Local Business Raum Shoes Ground You to the Earth—Literally! appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

Beauty

Thread and Seed

The health-conscious shopper will want to stock up on Thread and Seed’s curated selection clean beauty products from 20 unique brands. Can’t decide? Purchase a gift box to try a few different products! Thread and Seed is also offering ‘Holiday Vibes’ boxes specially curated to get you into the holiday spirit.

Shop Good

Give the gift of a great skincare routine at Shop Good. The clean beauty shop focuses on holistic wellness with makeup products and skincare that are all eco-friendly and green conscious. You can even purchase an at-home facial package to bring the spa right to your home.

Clothing and Accessories

Lone Flag

The Encinitas-based menswear store offers premium selections of clothes, accessories, and footwear that are both functional and fashion forward. In addition to their online store, Lone Flag is offering private appointments for those that still want to shop in store.

Timshel

With a mix of contemporary and vintage pieces, Timshel puts the spotlight on sustainably-sourced and ethically-made products. Shop here for a minimalist’s approach to clothing, jewelry, and home gifts. Take advantage of being a local with their discount for free San Diego-based shipping!

Mimi and Red

Shop Mimi and Red to add trend forward picks to your hippie-chic wardrobe. The boutique has an ever-changing inventory of new styles and silhouettes from over 35 unique clothing brands. You’ll find your Zoom holiday party look here!

Van De Vort

Band tees, event dresses, eye-catching everyday wear—you’ll find it all at Van De Vort. The clothing boutique houses an expansive collection of edgy fashion inspired by global trends.

Child of Wild

Child of Wild offers a thoughtful collection of jewelry and accessories that are representative of cultures from around the world. From authentic turquoise pieces from Navajo and Zuni artists to necklaces and chokers sourced directly from Istanbul, each piece is one-of-a-kind and rich in history.

Overload

Skateboarders, shop cool streetwear and new rides from over a dozen select brands to support this North Park staple. The shop also offers stylish backpacks, beanies, and other accessories to complete the look.

The Gold Dust Collective

The Gold Dust Collective houses the handmade work of three artists. Find celestial and natural stone jewelry at Flight of Fancy, leather goods and boots at El Gato Montes, and stylish hats from Haberdash. Take advantage of their upcoming sales and specials on Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and their one-year anniversary on December 5.

The Rising Co.

The co-op Oceanside hub is home to a number of creatives with online stores to support. From Mr. B’s Necessities, Parks Project and Wild Habit to Rais Case, Mar y Lana and more—shop all of your handmade necessities here. Find the full list of residents on their site!

Home Goods and Decor

Simon Limon

Becca Batista

Simón Limón

Handmade gifts and home goods are the name of the game at this colorful Barrio Logan brick-and-mortar. Shop jewelry, accessories, stationary and more, all made by artists from San Diego and Tijuana. Your selections can also be scheduled for curbside pickup online.

Gathered Home

Add a feminine touch to your space with a new piece from Gathered Home. The mother-daughter duo offers a collection of colorful decor and functional items for every room in the house. Don’t know what to gift? The online store offers the duo’s top picks for giftables!

Home Ec

The home goods shop is divided up to catch the eye of every kind of homebody, including kitchen enthusiasts, gardeners, and DIY-ers. Gift a bottle of wine in one of their colorful, art-forward wine bags or go kitsch with ‘stick of butter’ ornaments!

Clay & Craft

Clay + Craft

Nicole Novena’s ceramic and handcrafted pottery pieces are all designed through a minimalist’s eye. Right now you can purchase items from the modern collection and take advantage of free shipping, both available for a limited time.

Artelexia

This colorful store has been a long-loved staple in the San Diego community. Find a wide variety of handcrafted Mexican imports—from art prints and mementos to fiesta decor and candies—and curated grab bags with surprise goodies. The shop has gift ideas online for everyone in the family to make your holiday shopping a little easier.

Pigment

The beloved lifestyle boutique (and it’s two sister locations in Liberty Station and One Paseo) offers their inventory of sweet gifts and stylish home goods all online. Yes, you can even purchase a potted plant to keep you company during social distancing.

Moniker General

Moniker General blends style with function to provide a varied offering of beautiful home goods, handmade bags, locally-made accessories, candles and much more.

Hi Sweetheart

Your source for every kind of celebration, Hi Sweetheart is a must-shop for sweet gifts, cute cards, stationary, home goods and more. Giftables are a no-brainer here, so think of it as a one-stop shop for everyone on your list!

Current Collective

Current Collective made the recent switch to live exclusively online. There you’ll find all of the curated gifts that make them a beloved staple in the small biz community, with accessories, home finds and vintage pieces.

Wild Island Collective

Plant lovers can still put their green thumb to work through Wild Island Collective. The shop is continuing to sell their plants for curbside pick-up or delivery through their Instagram stories.

Gold Leaf

The South Park storefront’s online shop is well-stocked with all of our favorite finds. From home goods and hostessing gifts to children’s toys and DIY kits, there’s something to keep everyone busy.

Norden

The husband-and-wife duo has created a successful home brand reflective of the California lifestyle. Shop hand thrown dishes, wool throws, and fragrances inspired by the region’s dreamiest locations.

Thread & Seed

Becca Batista

The post Your Guide to Shopping Local and Online for Small Business Saturday appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

One Paseo

At this newly unveiled shopping center, chat with the owners of several San Diego-based businesses, including Shop Good and Urban Beach House, to get personalized shopping advice, tips on trends of the season, and tailored gift recommendations. Stick around for a tree lighting ceremony…because it’s never too early for Christmas.

3725 Paseo Place

Marrow Fine

This jeweler at One Paseo has three specials this year: A buy-one get-one offer for $499; a limited edition run of a new black onyx design; and each visitor can enter the giveaway of their new Pearl Arch Bracelet. Every purchased piece gives participants an extra entry.

3725 Paseo Place

Shop Good

Shop Good at One Paseo will be gifting a self-care kit valued at $100 with all purchases over $100—so treat yourself! Sip on a free warming CBD cocktail while you visit the free brow bar, open all day, no appointment necessary.

3725 Paseo Place

North Park

If you want funky, one-of-a-kind gifts, North Park is holding. On Small Business Saturday, the hip burg is debuting a new mural painted by local artist Bandit entitled Love Thy Neighborhood. Follow your ears to find 50 musicians playing at 16 local restaurants and breweries in the area.

3939 Iowa Street

Home and Hound

Looking for gifts that you and your favorite fur child will? Sniff around Home and Hound for dog- and human-friendly merch at a cool 15 percent discount off your entire purchase.

3768 30th Street

The Lab A Salon

Pamper yourself by purchasing one of Lab A Salon’s fabulous products and receive 10-15 percent off when you post about their store on social media.

3034 University Avenue

True North Tavern

Slake your shopping-induced thirst with $4 pints of beer or cocktails at this tavern when you show a receipt from any North Park purchase.

3815 30th Street

Little Italy

Little Italy is full of cute shops, places to mangiare, and killer views of the Bay. So why not spend Small Business Saturday with special discounts offered by these shops?

Little Italy Food Hall

Spend more than $50 at any of the locations and you’ll receive a free tote bag. Know what you can do with a free tote? Stuff it with more great things!

550 W. Date Street

Love and Aesthetics

Unique gifts are spilling out of this home goods and lifestyle store. Where else can  you find a banana bud vase or an anatomically-correct heart necklace? Fifteen percent off all regularly priced items.

621 W. Fir Street

L.Y.M. Salon

Does your hair need some love—at a 20 percent discount—this holiday season? Get an additional 10 percent off all Kevin Murphy products.

1550 Front Street

Ocean Beach

In between finding great deals, check out OB’s 1960s vintage bus photo experience and the complimentary trolley transporting shoppers between Newport Avenue and Voltaire Street. With $75 in receipts from local shops, you’ll receive a $25 gift card or be entered into a raffle for a local gift basket.

1868 Bacon Street

Bankers Hill

This little neighborhood tucked behind Waterfront Park is full of deals to sip, snack, and shop the day away.

Thread and Seed

Find complimentary drinks and snacks while you browse this clean beauty products store and pop ups by jewelry maker Jen Morales of Pan and Tea. Meet Molly Beane, founder of one of Thread and Seed’s top selling clean beauty lines, From Molly With Love.

2870 Fourth Avenue, Unit 106

Extraordinary Desserts

How sweet is this deal? Twenty percent off all retail and private label merchandise.

2870 Fourth Avenue

James Coffee Co.

Fuel up for the long day of shop-hopping with a Java from James Coffee Co. Maybe get a pour-over brew in a new mug, because on SBS merchandise is 15 percent off.

2870 Fourth Avenue, Suite 107

Liberty Station

Stock up on needles, yarn, and other supplies while taking advantage of all this naval base-turned-shopping-center offers.

2850 Womble Road

Apricot Yarn & Supply

Step inside a world of pillowy yarn, pointy needles and more at this one-stop yarn shop. Deals include 20 percent off selected yarns, $25 gift cards when you spend $125, and a free gift with a purchase of $50 or more. Bring extra canned food for a food drive they’re conducting for the nonprofit Loaves and Fishes.

2690 Historic Decatur Road

Where to Shop in San Diego on Small Business Saturday

One Paseo | Photo by Jim Simmons

The post Where to Shop in San Diego on Small Business Saturday appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market

Best for: Dates

When: Saturdays, 8 a.m.-2p.m.

Where: Date Street, between California Street and Amici Park

We didn’t name this market best for dates just because it encompasses five blocks of Date Street. Boasting 200 vendors, it’s among the biggest in the county. Which means you and that special someone will have no shortage of farm fresh produce, meat, fish, flowers, and local chefs’ specialties to stroll between while you enjoy live music. Want to impress your date with your adventurous side? Try the just-caught sea urchin. Visitors the world over rave about it.

Hillcrest Certified Farmers’ Market & Open-Air Bazaar

Best for: Global cuisine

When: Sundays, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Where: 3960 Normal Street

Hillcrest Market takes over the asphalt near the DMV with more than 175 vendors offering local produce, gifts, arts and crafts, flowers, clothing, and more. The large variety of prepared and hot food items includes an emphasis on international cuisine. And with free parking and a free shuttle (every 15 minutes) from San Diego Unified School District’s parking lot at 4207 Campus Ave., it’s easy to get here and start browsing. It’s the most fun you’ll ever have at the DMV!

Pacific Beach Farmers’ Market

Best for: When you’re low on cash

When: Tuesdays, 2-7 p.m.

Where: Bayard Street between Garnet Avenue and Grand Ave.

No cash? No problem! A unique feature of the Pacific Beach Farmers’ Market is that you can swipe your credit or debit card at the information booth to buy “market money” (does not expire) for use at all vendors. You’re welcome for that gift idea!

North Park Farmers’ Market

Best for: Coolhunting

When: Thursdays, 3-7:30 p.m.

Where: North Park Way and 30th Street

Perpetually on the hunt for trendy products? Look no further than this market in North Park, where vegan cookies, reusable straws, CBD tea, and alcoholic kombucha are just some of the cool commodities on offer.

Ocean Beach Certified Farmers’ Market

Best for: Grabbing dinner and watching the sunset

When: Wednesdays, 4-8 p.m.

Where: Newport Avenue

Ocean Beach’s signature funky vibe can be felt throughout this farmers market. In addition to fresh produce, there’s prepared food and live music to set the tone for a fun night out. The market runs until 8 p.m., so it’s the perfect time to grab dinner (might we suggest the Torpasta, a pasta-stuffed baguette?) and head to the pier to take in the sunset.

La Jolla Open Aire Market

Best for: Starting a family beach day

When: Sundays, 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Where: La Jolla Elementary School, 7335 Girard Ave.

Wake up early and grab the kids to shop for a good cause. All of La Jolla Open Aire Market’s proceeds benefit La Jolla Elementary School. After perusing the 120 vendors offering local artisans, fresh produce, and delicious food, pick up some snacks and make the short journey to the coast for a family beach day.

Coronado Farmers’ Market

Best for: Fresh produce

When: Tuesdays, 2:30-6 p.m.

Where: 1201 First Street

One of San Diego’s longest-running farmers’ markets, vendors come here from all over the county to sell locally-grown, fresh-off-the-truck produce.

The 7 Best Farmers Markets in San Diego

Photo by Priscilla Iezzi

The post The 7 Best Farmers Markets in San Diego appeared first on San Diego Magazine.