6 Best Restaurants in Old Town and Uptown, San Diego

Housed inside a converted Ford dealership that dates back to the '40s, Fort Oak is a haven for sophisticated carnivores and pescatarians alike. Chef Brad Wise's menu leans heavily on wood-fired fish, like the whole branzino, as well as aged steaks, heritage pork, and an impressive raw bar selection. Fort Oak leans into the building's unique history, with remnants of the former car dealer and garage touched up on the outside wall, but inside is a chic and modern bistro with a sleek, u-shaped bar at the center where patrons can sample their menu of cocktails named for vintage cars.

With world-class brewmaster Skip Virgilio behind the award-winning beers and an equally impressive food menu, this sprawling 9,000-square-foot brewpub achieves quality in every detail. Choose from hearty fare like the Gravity Burger and wood-fired pizzas, lighter options like salads and spring rolls, or come to enjoy brunch favorites like the Hawaiian pancake, brisket hash, or their can't-resist cinnamon roll. Mimosas are a great accompaniment for weekend merriment, but you can't go wrong with the craft beer tap list, either. 

Too early to grab a pint of Harland beer? Just head to their café counter that's open daily from 7 am to 3 pm for a fresh pastry and espresso instead. The pet- and kid-friendly patio is a great place to sit with a laptop or with friends, and if you stick around, it'll be beer-o'clock in no time.

Big caloric portions and long lines are hallmarks of this Southern-accented comfort food destination where hungry regulars from near and far line up for an indulgent meal in the crowded (and sometimes noisy) dining room. Bring an appetite and a friend; sharing plates is a necessity here.

A bright and bustling morning-hours counterpart to its sibling restaurant Madison, Madi is a haven for the Sunday brunch crowd. With colorful decor and no fewer than six different variations of mimosa on the menu, it's youthful and indulgent, but not exclusive to weekends—Madi serves its gooey morning treats like peanut butter and banana pancakes and chilaquiles every day starting at 8.

Bright “Brady Bunch” decor, plus plenty of sunshine and fresh air pouring through windows and skylights, are cheery wake-ups for diners at this hip neighborhood haunt for pancakes and lattes. Expect long waits for a table, especially on weekends; free coffee helps the time pass while you wait to indulge in made-from-scratch breakfast bliss.