Eating al fresco at a pristine park or picnic spot is a summer tradition in San Diego. For those looking for great local places to snag a bite and then dine outdoors, Yelp has you covered. We’ve paired up locations and lunch joints for this week’s guide to easy picnics. Enjoy!
Fletcher Cove Park + Pizza Port (Solana Beach)
Call in your order at Pizza Port or stop by after you park (free) along the 101 in the heart of Solana Beach. Nothing could be easier than picking up some famous Pizza Port pies, chicken wings and salad, then strolling down the block to Fletcher Cove Park. There are picnic tables, plenty of grass to spread a blanket on, a playground and of course, the beach! Pair these two local locations together for the perfect summer day.
Del Mar Dog Beach + The Curious Fork (Del Mar)
Newly opened, The Curious Fork is 100 percent gluten-free and completely delicious. Grab a gourmet sandwich, flat bread or specialty treat and a delicious Blue Bottle Coffee for your picnic pleasure! Park at the end of Via De la Valle and cross toward the coast until you arrive at Del Mar Dog Beach. Although this time of year it is required that you keep your pooch on a leash, you can still being your four-legged friend on this seaside feast.
Moonlight State Beach + Moonlight Beach Deli & Dogs (Encinitas)
Encinitas’ popular Moonlight State Beach and park is spruced up and ready for your afternoon al fresco. Before you head down to try and find parking, stop at the hidden gem known as Moonlight Beach Deli & Dogs. It’s located in a gas station grocery store and the locals swear their loyalty to the perfect sandwiches and snacks served there, so no need to pack a lunch from home. Pick your preferences and then just head towards the sand for the easiest afternoon ever.
Kit Carson Park + Hungry Bear Subs (Escondido)
Forget your coolers and lugging lunch around, just stop in at Hungry Bear Subs before you head to Kit Carson Park – you won’t regret it! This famous locally-owned sandwich shop is the highest rated restaurant on Yelp in the Escondido area with almost 500 reviews. Their famous BBQ steak with melted cheese and peppers can’t be beat. Once you snag your subs, you can feed the ducks at the pond and find a nice table on which to perch your picnic.
Buddy Todd Park + Ty’s Burger House (Oceanside)
Buddy Todd Park in Oceanside has lots of shade and a playground for little ones to run around. As you claim your spot for the day, feel free to spread out your supplies, but no need to bother with a BBQ. Instead, stop by Ty’s Burger House (the sign simply says “Burger House”) and pick up picnic favorites with none of the fuss. The take-out burgers and fries by a local guy with a commitment to quality will make your day smooth and relaxing. We suggest you try the chili burger and sweet potato fries.
Trish Sanderson is the community manager and marketing director for Yelp North County San Diego. She leads the local community of Yelp reviewers both online and off.
