A Hipsters Paradise

Going out and enjoying the perks downtown San Diego has to offer can be exhausting. Walking up and down popular streets trying to find a decent place to enjoy a meal with a comfortable atmosphere can be draining, especially when you are hungry. If you are looking for a new restaurant to join the "hipster" scene I have a few options that won’t disappoint.

1.  Herb and Wood

Herb and Wood was opened in March of 2006 by Chef Brian Malarkey and business partner Christopher Puffer. This restaurant is a combination of wood fire meals, trendy art and a modern, yet cozy atmosphere. It will remind you of a wooden greenhouse, if possible. The restaurant is stocked with contemporary art and beautiful green ferns. But don't think this place is just a hipster’s paradise, it also has a modern feel with beautiful crystal chandeliers dangling along the ceiling. The interior design is superb, but for all you foodies out there the food is the restaurant's main focus using only quality ingredients. One example would be they churn their own butter! That screams dedication. The restaurant’s specialty is pizza and seafood, but they only serve dinner. Stay tuned they will be adding a weekend brunch soon. Herb and Wood is Located at 2210 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101

2. Rustic Root

If you lean more towards the traditional side, Rustic Root is for you. Located on 5th Avenue, this restaurant focuses only on American rustic tradition, specifically expressed in their food and cocktails. The Rustic Root restaurant takes old American favorites like fried chicken and transforms it into a culinary delight. Their specialty, however, is their cocktails. Designed by mixologist Garth Flood, old American classics like mule cups are served in the traditional copper cups.The restaurant’s decor mixes Pixar's Shrek, the forest and the future all in one. It is definitely a sight to see.

3. Craft and Commerce

If you want to skip the tradition and just take the Delorian back in time, Craft and Commerce is definitely the spot for you. Founded in January of 2009, Craft and Commerce vowed to bring back the old values America lost during the wake of mass media. Their menu consists of wood fried meals, small plates, and delectable entrees. The atmosphere is also a sight to see. Outside the walls are coated in green leaves wrapping all around the building. The inside consists of a more contemporary feel, my favorite is the picture of Jesus Christ with "DEMAND LESS" carved into the brick wall in huge letters. The restaurant really focuses on a truly united hometown feel, consisting of demanding less and getting just enough. If you’re into philanthropy, they've been a storm sheather since 2009.

4. Juniper and Ivy

Juniper and Ivy is more of a modern feel with the American traditional meals. Like Rustic Root "Juniper and Ivy offers refined American Cuisine[s] with unique iterations of the classics." For example, they serve meals like pork chops with cranberry bean posole and Ribeye steak with blue cheese butter...very interesting.The restaurant’s interior is simple but very stylish with a wooden and concrete decor mixed with a nice modern vibe.

5. Rare Form & Fair Weather

Rare form is another classic American restaurant with interesting decor. The inside favors a law library with painting-like portraits. They serve gourmet deli and sandwiches. People who usually enjoy this spot are in their mid-twenties, but if you're planning to go on a Sunday be ready for a 30 minute to an hour wait since this is their busiest day. Visit Rare Form & Fair Weather.

A day of fun should not be spoiled by too many options. Make your life easier by trying one, or all of the five spots for a guaranteed memorable experience.