Chef

Rich Sweeney

"San Diego is chock-full of East Coast transplants, and Pop's is one of them. The rest of us are all lucky that he's out here whipping up amazing cheesesteak heroes. Flavorful shaved beef, sweet and spicy peppers, mushrooms, onions, and mozzarella cheese—yum."

"This is a great little local shop in Hillcrest with an amazing assortment of buttery and rich cookies. You can't go wrong with the California Killers with nuts or the toffee almond for that salty-sweet satisfaction."

"Chef Derek is a wonderful cookie genius and makes AMAZING treats. I don't think I've ever had a cookie I didn't like from him. They are mostly available at farmers markets, but they have a location opening in Point Loma that I'm scared I will visit all too often!"

"I add the char-su belly (SCORE!). This is a great after-work spot, but it's good for any time you want amazing ramen and great beer."

"Renaud brings a touch of French flair to Hillcrest with his awesome wine and spirits bar, Voyou. They are only open at night. You have to try the house-infused gummy bear vodka, too!"

"This is another SD walk-up counter that will shock you with its amazing Lebanese cuisine. The chicken and cheese wrap has clean, simple, fresh ingredients rolled into saj bread. It's filled with marinated grilled chicken breast, lettuce, tomatoes, parsley, pickles, tahini, feta, and mozzarella cheese. Be sure to ask for extra hot sauce if you're ordering this one to-go, or pour it on at the table. It's got great heat without tasting just like hot sauce."