You don’t have to be a tourist to enjoy one of San Diego’s prime destinations: Seaport Village. With breathtaking views of the bay and gentle breezes to remind you of our perfect SoCal setting, why not take the family for a fun day, an afternoon, or simply a meal at this eclectic collection of shops and restaurants. There’s over 60 waterfront retail shops and eateries, so there’s sure to be something here to please every age, taste, and budget!
Even I need an occasional reminder of the fantastic options available to us, the locals, at Seaport Village. This week, I was invited to a VIP tour of a few select shops and restaurants that will be welcoming residents and visitors alike this summer.
Our personal tour started at the whimsical carousel which anchors the west side of the boardwalk. This is one of five carousels in San Diego, and in my opinion, the most fun. It goes around much faster than any carousel I’ve been on!
Our first stop was at The Tinsmith at Seaport Village. This store specializes in Mexican hand-made tin pieces like the beautiful star lanterns made in San Miguel — a perfect way to give that summer evening glow to your porch or patio.
The Village Hat Shop is the number one destination for those unique hats and fascinators to wear to the Del Mar Races. Choose from 50,000 hats! But don’t wait to get yours because they do sell out quickly!
The Upstart Crow Bookstore and Café has been around since I went to college (circa 1982). The kitschy book seller is bursting with books, magazines, and an assortment of cards and gifts. You can browse, read, and sip on a hot or cold coffee. They closed your nearest big-box book store and you need a book pronto? No worries, the Upstart Crow can order anything if you don’t find it on their shelves. Call ahead or pop in!
Urban Girl Accessories is a trendy yet sophisticated shop. Focusing on beach attire and home décor, you can’t help yourself from feeling the vacation vibe as soon as you walk in. You’ll find TOMS shoes, a huge variety of Vera Bagley items, whimsical signs, throw pillows, candles, and scented soaps and lotions. The displays are simple gorgeous!
At Seaport Oil and Vinegars you have to taste to believe the combination of flavors I’m going to list for you: Blood Orange Olive Oil with Tangerine Balsamic Vinegar; Tuscan Herb Olive Oil with Fig Balsamic Vinegar; Garlic Olive Oil with Pineapple Balsamic Vinegar and Chipotle Olive Oil with Dark Espresso Balsamic Vinegar. I drank each one of these combinations in a small cup and my taste buds could not believe what hit them! Public and private tastings are available at this spacious, contemporary shop.
Who knew personalized tumblers were a thing? Since 1946, Tervis has made insulated tumblers and water bottles that keep hot drinks hot, and cold drinks cold. You can choose from college or professional sports teams, initials, and a huge selection of licensed Disney and Nickelodeon characters. And if they don’t have the initial, team, or name you want, they’ll make it for you! Customizable tumblers are Tervis’ specialty.
Seaport Coffee and Fudge is tucked away on the west end of the boardwalk. You can’t miss the pink corner store! Coffee drinks, caramel apples, and of course, fudge are plentiful and made on the premises. Try the Apple Pie Carmel apple. It’s a slice of heaven!
My day ended at the Edgewater Grill. Located on the boardwalk, this location offers sweeping views of the bay and Coronado, my home sweet home. I sampled new menu items like Brussels Spouts with house made bacon and Crab Bruschetta. The variety of fruit infused drinks includes Cruzan Rum with Hawaiian Papaya and Raspberries, and Dickel Whiskey infused with Bing Cherries and Pink Peppercorns. Ask Shane to give you a taste. He’s the friendly bartender with an Aussie accent. Our local beaches are honored with drinks named after them, and only local brews are served here.
Taco Tuesday features a variety of tacos that don’t include the same old thing. Instead try the POTACO. Served with sides like sour cream and salsa fresca, this fried tortilla with mashed potato filling tastes just like the ones my mother used to make at home in Mexico!
Seaport Village and its sister property, The Headquarters, are a great summer day escape for both visitors and locals!
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