GASLAMP QUARTER. Downtown's Panda Inn, with its elegant interior and award-winning Mandarin and Szechuan cuisine, is a top pick when you're in the mood for accomplished Asian fare. Tasty standards include Panda shrimp, Peking duck with spicy bean curd, and twice-cooked pork.

HILLCREST / BALBOA PARK. Parallel 33 features cuisines from around the globe, from such places as Morocco, China, India and Japan. The masterful chef expertly combines herbs, spices, sauces and other fresh ingredients to present an eclectic, but cohesive menu that's sure to delight even the pickiest of eaters. Think ahi poke combined with pear, mango and wasabi dressing; or masoor dal soup with coconut cream and tarka shallots. An expertly selected wine list as well as service that shines make this a neighborhood darling that's visited often by locals in the know.

POINT LOMA. Locals have favored this fish and chips place for years, and it's one of San Diego's best places for al fresco dining. You'll also consider it a good place to purchase reasonably priced fresh seafood, party platters, and sushi (there's also a sushi deli should you want a few rolls while you're there). If you're an angler and catch something yourself, Point Loma Seafoods will fillet and smoke it for you.

GASLAMP QUARTER. While you decide whether to have the Tom Yum or the Tom Kha, sip on a one of the many cocktails created by Rama's adventuresome bartender. Marvel at the rich décor - cushy banquettes, a textural wall of flat rock, sheer curtains adding a bit of privacy to deep booths, and a warm color palette of paprika and earthy browns. For your main course, select a protein (from tofu to beef to shrimp) and your preferred preparation, be it spicy or mild. Or select traditional pad thai, massaman curry or kra pao.

LA JOLLA. Sami Ledecki's latest culinary adventure is nothing short of spectacular. From the modern earth-toned, softly lit dining room complete with tropical fish tank to an exciting fusion of Chinese, Korean and American with such tempting dishes as Mongolian grilled shrimp with mango ­ you can't go wrong at this local favorite. Be sure to leave room for the divine desserts ­ their "chocolate decadence" is heaven!