May Food Diary, San Diego Edition

After what feels like the longest accidental food-blogging hiatus ever, I figured it was finally time to dust off the keyboard and check back in. I promise I haven’t stopped eating- quite the opposite, actually. I’ve still been out exploring new restaurants, revisiting old favorites, and happily making questionable decisions involving extra appetizers and late-night desserts. Unfortunately, life and work have had other plans lately, and finding the time to sit down and actually write has been more difficult than expected.

That said, I genuinely appreciate everyone who reached out over the past few months to make sure I wasn’t retiring from the local food scene entirely. Your messages, recommendations, and reminders that you look forward to these posts honestly meant a lot and gave me the push to get back to it. So thank you for sticking around while I disappeared into the chaos of adulthood for a bit.

And as always, if there’s a spot you think I need to try, a hidden gem I’m missing, or you just want to talk food, feel free to reach out anytime through the blog. Chances are I’m either already planning my next meal… or currently eating it.

Fleurette (UTC)

Tucked discreetly among the office buildings of La Jolla, Fleurette feels like a hidden Parisian escape waiting to be discovered. While the location may seem unexpected, everything beyond the entrance is pure magic, from the warm, attentive service to the effortlessly elegant interior that balances coastal California charm with classic French sophistication. The menu is equally impressive, delivering beautifully executed dishes that feel both refined and comforting, alongside cocktails that are as thoughtful as they are delicious. Fleurette is the kind of restaurant that quietly enters the scene and instantly becomes one of La Jolla’s most memorable dining destinations.

pros: everything about this place is perfection

cons: odd choice of location amidst office buildings

must order: leeks vinaigrette topped with connelly farms duck egg, golden kaluga caviar, and sauce ravigote; the garganelli alla genovese with 24-hour braised wagyu beef shank ragu, caramelized onion, and whipped ricotta; the olive oil poached wild king salmon with spring peas, fava beans, and lemon-herb sauce; and the provençal lamb rack served with merguez sausage, spring zucchini, and red pepper jus.

Moment Sushi (Sorrento Valley)

This cozy sushi spot delivers an experience that feels both elevated and welcoming. From the moment the beautifully plated dishes arrive, it’s clear that fresh ingredients are the star. The menu also stands out for its unique options, offering creative rolls and specialty bites that go beyond the usual sushi lineup. Inside, the dim lighting and lively atmosphere create the perfect balance between intimate dinner vibes and energetic conversation, making it an ideal place for everything from date nights to group outings.

pros: lively atmosphere with a diverse clientele of families, couples, and young groups

cons: perhaps because we visited on a busy saturday night, the service was rushed, food came out fast, and they wanted our group out as soon as we finished eating

must order: moment roll, spicy tuna crispy rice, bluefin tuna yuzu wasabi

Pepino (La Jolla)

Pepino has finally opened up after what seems like more than a year in the making. For a casual setting, it seems pricey at first glance, but once you delve into the clean and delicious ingredients and masterful seasoning, it is well worth the price.

pros: casual eatery with a small menu of really well-made dishes

cons: a $24 burrito sounds excessive, but honestly, it's that good

must order: sweet potato bowl with "pollo a la brasa", sweet potato, mayocoba beans, kale, fried egg, pickled red onion, salsa verde, crispy garlic, chives and the lomo saltado burro with beef, scrambled eggs, tots, guacamole, red onion, tomato, jalapeño, queso oaxaca, cilantro, scallion, smoked salsa roja

RoVino (Downtown)

Located in the heart of downtown, this neighborhood favorite delivers a comforting Italian dining experience that keeps locals coming back. The packed dining room buzzes with energy from the moment the doors open, creating a warm and lively atmosphere that feels both authentic and inviting. Known for its large portions, every dish arrives overflowing with rich flavors and homemade charm, making it perfect for sharing or taking leftovers home. On weekend nights especially, reservations are practically required, as tables fill quickly with diners eager to enjoy the cozy ambiance and consistently satisfying menu.

pros: fun ambience, authentic Italian dishes

cons: indoor seating gets loud

must order: arancini, tiramisu (sooo good!), and any of their made-to-order pastas

Katsuya Ko (UTC)

As one of the newest additions to the UTC dining scene, Katsuya Ko brings an energetic and memorable experience from the very first step inside. Guests are greeted with an enthusiastic shout from the staff upon arrival, adding to the restaurant’s upbeat and welcoming atmosphere. The service feels genuinely attentive, with servers offering helpful recommendations that make trying new dishes effortless. Between the warm hospitality, flavorful menu offerings, and lively ambiance, this La Jolla newcomer already feels like a strong addition to the area’s growing food scene.

pros: colorful and upbeat vibe, vegan options, large selection of japanese dishes cons: none

must order: the wagyu sando with crispy wagyu katsu, black garlic tonkatsu sauce, and japanese milk bread