San Diego food finds: Mission and Pacific Beach

There is something about enjoying a meal by the beach that just enhances one’s eating experience. Unlike Ocean Beach, Mission and Pacific Beach restaurants are only feet away from the sand and the surf. Eat your fill, then soak up some sun.

Under $10

Cash Only
Oscar’s Mexican Seafood 703 Turquoise St.

The original Oscar’s makes one of the best fish tacos in town. Their overstuffed street tacos challenge you to keep all of their tasty contents from spilling onto your plate.

Grilled Cheese Made More Exciting
Cheesy Express 3219 Mission Blvd.

Grilled cheese sandwiches are one of the best comfort foods in the world. Grilled cheese sandwiches with avocado and bacon are not of this world. Make your own cheesy creation, and be sure to order a soup on the side!

High on Flavor, Low on Price
Pasta Espresso 4480 Haines St.
This tiny pasta-only bistro serves something new everyday, because everything is made fresh the day you order it. While their selection is limited, the quality of their entrees supersedes the quantity of choices you could find at a larger venue.

Satisfying Sandwiches
Rubicon Deli 3819 Mission Blvd.
There is little that can go wrong at a mom and pop sandwich deli. I have yet to find a better pastrami or roast beef sandwich in San Diego, and the bayside setting adds a relaxing atmosphere to the restaurant.

Dream Ice Cream Sandwiches
Baked Bear 4516 Mission Blvd.
If you ever thought to yourself, “I wish I could pair my favorite cookies with my favorite ice cream to make the best ice cream sandwich,” then go to Baked Bear. They will make your ice cream dream come true.

Specialty Cupcakes
Pure Cupcakes 1772 Garnet Ave.
Pacific Beach’s take on specialty desserts. Their cupcakes are thick, moist and incredibly addicting. If you buy them by the dozen, they can get a little pricey, but don’t let that keep you from satisfying your sweet tooth.

Under $20

Modern Americana Entrees
Firehouse American Eatery 722 Grand Ave.
A trendy American chic restaurant situated on Mission Boardwalk that serves upscale versions of American classics. With a beautiful rooftop view of Mission Beach, Firehouse offers both sensational views and delicious tastes.