Just as the metropolitan landscape in San Diego is constantly evolving, so are our favorite eateries – switching up their flavah and offering new culinary specials and dining perks to keep up with foodie hot spots sprouting up around town. 

From San Diego chefs taking over reality TV shows to chef swaps, economy-inspired transformations, and new affordable menu specials, discover the latest in San Diego dining.

San Diego Chefs on TV
Brian Malarkey of Oceanaire began the trend with his debut on “Top Chef”in 2007. Soon after, Gavin Kayson from El Bizcocho proved his skills on “Iron Chef.” In 2008, Confidential hit the air waves when Rich Sweeney went for the main title on “Top Chef.” New in 2009, Frank Terzoli or, Frankie the Bull, a local and former "Top Chef" contestant opened a new restaurant in San Diego, appropriately named Frankie the Bull’s BBQ. Also new, another member of the local dining scene is joining a reality TV cast, but this time with a different role and goal. Julien Hug, San Diego restaurateur who runs Mille Fleurs in Rancho Santa Fe, is looking for love on the new season of “The Bachelorette.”

Insider Tip: Potential suitors on “Bachelorette” also include a business developer from Encinitas, Kiptyn Beutler.

San Diego Restaurants Transform to Survive
With local foodies cutting back on indulgent dinners, smart San Diego restaurants are making changes to keep ahead of the industry trends and survive the rough economic times. SD Urban Kitchen just closed the classic Laurel Restaurant in Banker’s Hill to redesign the venue and introduce a new vision free of the fine dining weight. The restaurant at Stingaree is also seeing changes, with the implementation of a new lounge area serving inexpensive dining options. The venue known as Epazote at Del Mar Plaza shut its doors to welcome a new restaurant – Sunset Bar and Grill – with a more casual atmosphere. 

Insider Tip: Follow the Laurel transformation here. (pictured)

Corvette Diner Speeds Off to Point Loma
On April 26, 2009 the Corvette Diner closed its doors after 22 years of old time rock ‘n’ roll fun in Hillcrest. But don’t worry, this Fifth Avenue favorite isn’t shutting down, but merely moving to set-up shop at a new, more expansive home at Liberty Station in Point Loma. The classic diner will be revamped with twice the space, making room for a 5,000 square-foot arcade, seating for 242 guests, private dining rooms, and a full bar. The new Corvette Diner will open in June 2009. Get details.

Del Mar Plaza Welcomes Three New Restaurants
Just in time for summer the Del Mar Plaza introduces three new casual and affordable restaurants to reflect customer demand: Sunset Bar and Grill, Shibashi Izakaya and Rumi Café. Sunset Bar & Grill is a casual, yet upbeat dining venue where you can get a flavorsome meal at an affordable price. For sushi lovers, Shimbashi Izakaya offers diners tasty Japanese tapas, unique dinner entrees and an extensive sake bar. Offering both early morning and evening hours, Rumi Café serves up coffee and teas along with lunch and light dinner fare. Get details.

Chef Departure at Confidential
Following his TV fame from Bravo’s “Top Chef,” Rich Sweeney is making some big career moves back in San Diego. Sweeney has left Confidential to pursue two new ventures: a catering and entertainment lifestyle brand, ARC Hospitality Concepts, and a new restaurant slated to open in mid fall.

New Design at The Glass Door
This secret spot on the fourth floor of  Porto Vista Hotel in Little Italy is set to embark on an interior update, compliments of Graham Downes. Also new is the opening of its rooftop lounge deck and bar, and the beginning of a series of summer and fall events. If you haven’t yet visit tasted the New American cuisine from Chef Robert Conaway, head to The Glass Door for dinner during the sunset and enjoy half-off wine Wednesdays. 

Whisknlade Launches Prepkitchen
The local favorite restaurant Whisknladle in La Jolla is now gifting locals with the opening of Prepkitchen – a gourmet take-out eatery serving balanced dinners, complete lunches, and quick-bites for those on the go. The new take-out menu from Ryan Johnston, executive chef of Prepkitchen and Whisknladle, is made fresh daily, with emphasis placed on fresh high-quality proteins and organic produce purchased from local farms. Details here.

Cheap Deals at Fine Dining Restaurants
Many local restaurants haven’t yet been forced to shut doors or change image, but they are beginning to offer the sort of discount promotions never before seen in San Diego. Bertrand at Mister A’s now features the 20/20 Lunch Menu and Classic Cocktail Hour – get details. The Fleetwood invites you in for the 2 for 20 lunch special or 3 for 3 dinner special – get details. Bistro 39 is hosting an incredible Winemaker’s Dinner including a five course dinner with wine pairings for only $40 per person – get details. Indigo Grill announces the Food for the Mind, Body & Soul – a health conscious four-course menu paired with summer wines for only $40 per person – get details.

Cooks Confab Host New San Diego Culinary Event
What originally began as a few local chefs casually chatting over food and drinks has now evolved into a progressive concept known as Cooks Confab. This culinary collaboration, comprised of 18 of San Diego’s most innovative chefs, have teamed together to share their palatable talents with San Diego foodies by hosting stylish grand scale dinner parties. Details here.

Did you miss our last update? Get up to speed on New in San Diego Dining: Mi Casa, Blind Lady, Zenbu

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