It can be hard to branch out nowadays – in an age where algorithms dominate the media we consume, distinguishing an ad from reality is nigh impossible. Word of mouth is back in business as the most reliable way to find trusted, new spots to eat. While I see the irony in writing this on my website, I take no money from any of the restaurants that I write about. Additionally, I try my best to stay away from big chains and restaurant groups whenever possible. I hope this list of some of the best under-the-radar food in North Park inspires you to try a new, local, business near you!
El Comal
El Comal tops this list as the best hidden gem in North Park. Serving up some of the best Mexican food in San Diego, Cris and his team put out amazing dishes that go beyond California burritos and Carne Asada fries.
The business was started 23 years ago by his parents, who are still involved in the restaurant to this day. Cris and his brother, though, play a huge role in the success of El Comal. From the food to the atmosphere, everything here feels authentic and homey. Decorations of Frida Kahlo adorn the vibrant, blue walls, and the food feels like it came from mom’s kitchen. The recipes at El Comal are based on traditional, regional specialties, but Cris isn’t afraid to experiment, too.
Octopus tacos with chicharrones and chipotle salsa stand out as some of the best tacos in San Diego. Goat barbacoa, smoked marlin tacos, and Tlalpeño are all absolute winners. To top it all off, their Mojitos are to-die-for, coming in lots of fun variations. Do yourself a favor and stop by El Comal to get some authentic Mexican food in North Park.
Rip Current Brewery
North Park is home to some of the best breweries in San Diego. Big names like Mike Hess, Second Chance, and Modern Times attract a lot of attention from people, but Rip Current Brewery stands out to me.
The vibe here is excellent, with large windows facing the street for people-watching, and an outdoor area as well. Paintings on the wall accompany a case filled with assorted cans from all around. The menu of beers here is varied, and with 20 taps, there is definitely something for everyone. From fruity to hoppy, the impressive range of styles offered is a huge draw. They also have hard kombucha for anyone who is not a fan of beer.
For food options, a connecting kitchen from CraftHouse serves up delicious burgers, fries, and other bar food. The beers from Rip Current have numerous accolades, and the brewery even won “GABF Very Small Brewing Company and Brewer of the Year” in 2015.
The laid-back, local vibe from Rip Current is just the cherry on top of the amazing beers and burgers you can enjoy here. Centrally located on 30th street, Rip Current is always worth a visit when you’re in town.
Bangkok Spices Thai
Tucked away in a storefront that looks just like any other home in the area, Bangkok Spices Thai is home to some of the best Thai food in North Park. Rich curries, tender meat, and huge portions make this a perfect spot for some comfort food. Their menu is affordable and offers great value, as each entree can last me for at least two full meals.
My favorite is the Duck Choo Chee Curry, which contains an enormous amount of tender, rich, duck breast. For those who have not tried Thai food before, this is a great place to start. The food is seasoned perfectly, and the flavors are authentic, but nothing on the menu is very spicy. Speaking of the menu, it is one of the most extensive Thai menus in the area that I have seen.
Many places stick to the basics – curries, Pad Thai, and fried rice, but Bangkok Spices Thai has a huge array of options. Crispy pork, BBQ salmon, and Duck Choo Chee are all dishes that I have not seen elsewhere.
While there are signs on the windows that signify a change in ownership, after asking about it, I learned that the head chef will stay on. I have not been back since the new owners took over, but I am hopeful that the quality will still stay high.
Sicilian Thing
If you ask anyone for the best pizza in North Park, you will likely get a huge variety of answers – Luigi’s on El Cajon, Tribute Pizza, or the Friendly on 30th. For me, Sicilian Thing is a shop that I don’t hear mentioned, but it truly stands out.
Growing up on the East Coast, it seemed that every pizza shop had amazing soft, thin dough with amazing sauce. While it may seem like just the basics, everywhere did it well and with consistency. Sicilian Thing reminds me of the pizza I had growing up. The crust is never burnt, the dough is light, and the sauce is perfectly balanced. There are a wide variety of options to choose from, including thick, square “slices,” which are more filling and just as delicious. Overshadowed by their delicious slices, the sandwiches here are very solid. The chicken parm was filling, and the chicken was crisp and tender.
Truly, the only downside to Sicilian Thing is the parking. Being on 30th, parking is tight, and sidestreets are often being worked on, limiting available spots. Even though it may take a few extra minutes to get to, a slice from Sicilian Thing is always a great pick me up.
