Back Row: Shaun Ostrofe, DO, PGY-3; Austin Park, MD, PGY-4; Tim Holland, DO, PGY-3; Dave Kirwin, MD, PGY-2; and Monica Borza, DO, PGY-2; Front Row: Travis Frantz, MD, PGY-2; Kat Kramer, MD, PGY-3; Aly Brahe, MD, PGY-4; and Alex Pybus, MD, PGY-2
San Diego is a friendly city, known for its tacos, beaches, and perfect weather. If you’re looking to explore or catch a breather between the high-yield lectures and bustling Exhibit Hall, check out these hidden gems, recommended by local dermatology residents from Naval Medical Center San Diego!
Food and Drink
Bronx Pizza | 111 Washington St. • The Taco Stand | 645 B St. For the best pizza in San Diego, check out Bronx Pizza in Hillcrest (cash only). There’s a reason why Dave Portnoy of Barstool Sports rated this place an 8.1 (a high score for a pizza place on the West Coast). The Taco Stand has a few locations in San Diego and offers up excellent Tijuana-style street tacos. I highly recommend the Al Pastor and the Nopal tacos. – Tim Holland, DO, PGY-3
Animae | 969 Pacific Highway For a fine dining experience that is more than worth the hype, make a reservation for dinner at Animae. This restaurant in the Gaslamp is a beautiful blend of Art Deco style, West Coast Steakhouse, and Asian culinary influences. Start with the Hunan Lamb Chops, Crispy Potatoes, and work your way to the A5 Wagyu. You’ll dream of this meal for years to come. – Aly Brahe, MD, PGY-4
Bali Hai | 2230 Shelter Island Drive Check out Bali Hai Polynesian eatery for a world-renowned Mai Tai, seafood dishes, and enchanting bay views. – Dave Kirwin, MD, PGY-2
The Red Door | 741 W Washington St. This is one of my favorite restaurants in San Diego. Head chef and owner Luciano Cibelli personally makes sure your meal is enjoyable, and you truly can’t go wrong with a menu packed full of Italian-inspired comfort food. Their handcrafted cocktails are delightful. Make sure you reserve a table! – Alex Pybus, MD, PGY-2
Rocky’s | 3786 Ingraham St. • Taco Surf PB | 4657 Mission Blvd. Rocky’s has the best burger in town. Head over to the Crown Point area of Pacific Beach. Make sure you bring cash! While in Pacific Beach, check out Taco Surf for the best rolled tacos as rated by San Diego Magazine. – Shaun Ostrofe, DO, PGY-3
Experiences
San Diego tidepools Unlike summer when low tide falls at night, afternoon low tides in early March are a great time to check out local tidepools and find crabs, anemones, urchins, turban snails, sculpin, and maybe even an octopus or starfish! Check out the Point Loma Tidepools, Tide Beach Park in Solana Beach, or Dike Rock in La Jolla. – Kat Kramer, MD, PGY-3
Rent a bicycle and explore Coronado Experience breathtaking views of downtown San Diego from the waterfront, stop by the beach and Hotel Del Coronado, and finish off with a meal at Clayton’s Diner. – Austin Park, MD, PGY-4
La Jolla Cove sea lions For a unique wildlife experience, take the young and grown children to La Jolla Cove to view the seals and sea lions. While at the Cove, you can also pop over to Brockton Villa for a delicious brunch! – Shaun Ostrofe, DO, PGY-3
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve This park is rich in history and natural beauty. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike to the top of the iconic cliffs of La Jolla, feeling the California sunshine on your face (with plenty of your favorite sunblock of course) and the sand between your toes on a relaxing beach walk. – Travis Frantz, MD, PGY-2
Little Italy Charming, pedestrian-friendly neighborhood filled with live music, patio cafés, restaurants, pubs, and shops! Best coffee: Lofty Coffee. Best breakfast: Morning Glory. Best apps: Juniper and Ivy. Best entrées: Barbusa (get the pesto gnocchi). Best cocktails: Born and Raised. Best atmosphere: Nolita Hall. Best dessert: Salt and Straw. And don’t miss the famous farmers market on Saturday! – Monica Borza, DO, PGY-2
