There’s so much to love about San Diego’s food scene — from hidden hideouts to grand-scale dynamos — here are a few favorites that keep us coming back for more.

Sublime Ale House
My mental carb-counter may say no, but my taste buds scream a resounding yes. Sublime Ale House offers ten savory varieties of Mac & Cheese ranging from Purity (the cherished dish in its truest form) and Fiery (ham and jalapeño) to Infatuation (truffle oil, wild mushroom) and Rapture (Gorgonzola béchamel, bacon, mushrooms, red pepper, garlic, thyme). But it gets even better — fresh bread baked in-house, 50+ taps of craft beer, small-lot wines, truffled fries. Need I say more? (760/510-9220, www.sublimealehouse.com)   MIA STEFANKO

Bertrand At Mister A’s
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, entertaining out-of-towners, or stopping in after a night at the theater, Bertrand At Mister A’s tops the list in terms of delectable cuisine paired with breathtaking panoramic views. (619/239-1377, www.bertrandatmisteras.com)     BOB STEFANKO

Blue Ribbon Artisan Pizzeria
As you step into Blue Ribbon, the cozy and welcoming ambience is surpassed only by chef/owner Wade Hageman’s out-of-this-world menu. Start with the truffle popcorn and the burrata (no ifs, ands, or buts about it), as you determine which of the woodfired pizzas with hand-stretched mozzarella you’d like to delight in. Unique, yet simple, flavors (think ricotta, lemon zest, and razor-thin red onion) upon artisan crust pair perfectly with a hand-picked selection of wine and craft beers. If you’ve left room, share the only dessert — the Butterscotch Pudding marries sweet with salty in a to-die-for combo. Get there early or be prepared to wait — it’s worth it. (760/634-7671, www.blueribbonpizzeria.com)   RINA VAN ORDEN

Addison
For a romantic dinner, special occasion, or when you really want to impress, Addison at The Grand Del Mar is in a category all by itself. There’s little wonder that this San Diego showplace has garnered considerable acclaim, again earning the coveted Five Stars from the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide and Five Diamonds from AAA. The young, uber-talented William Bradley is at the helm, accompanied by an able staff, with wine picks by the knowledgeable Jesse Rodriguez. Whether you dine in one of the banquettes with windows overlooking the resort, or by a cozy fireplace, Addison is truly fine dining at its best. (858/314-1900, www.addisondelmar.com)    ANDREA NAVERSEN

Solace & The Moonlight Lounge
This new addition in the heart of downtown Encinitas has all the elements for a fabulous dining experience. The menu offers sustainable seafood selections, naturally produced meat, and organic and local fare. The oyster bar is a favorite starting point, accompanied by the Yellowtail Pepita Tartare — not to be missed. The weekend brunch menu with the Best Darn Buttermilk Cinnamon Roll, Cream Cheese Icing (be sure to add the Butter Pecan Sauce); Brandt Farms Beef Cheek Hash with Poached Eggs and Smoked Chili-Ancho Sauce; and the signature Bloody Mary is the perfect way to celebrate Sunday Funday. (760/753-2433, www.eatsolace.com)   TIFFANY DEBBAS

Coronado Boathouse
Looking for a special setting with equally fine cuisine? Unsurpassed in both categories is the Coronado Boathouse. It’s become a kind of miniature Hotel Del Coronado (same architects), though it predates the Del by one year (1887). Locale and views are simply wonderful. Favorite dishes include the Lobster Bisque,
Alaskan King Crab, Caesar Salad, and Peppered Rib Eye Steak. (619/435-0155, www.coronado-boathouse.com)    DARLENE G. DAVIES

Goldfish Point Café
Goldfish Point Café, located uphill from the cove at 1255 Coast Boulevard, is one of La Jolla’s best-kept secrets. The regulars — and there are many — include La Jolla Cove swimmers, who gather here for coffee and conversation after their morning workout. The young and the restless also roll in regularly with their laptops and avail themselves of the free Wi-Fi. Other folks choose this breezy spot for the privacy it offers and the great ocean view. (858/459-7407, www.goldfishpointcafe.com)    ELIZABETH HANSEN

Venissimo Cheese
After the completion of an issue, we take great pleasure in treating ourselves to a trip to Flower Hill Promenade’s Venissimo Cheese. There, hundreds of great cheeses have us all oohing and ahhing. We’ll likely never try them all since there are certain staples we must always leave with, but we’ll certainly keep trying! Mango Ginger Stilton, Truffle Tremor, or Lamb Chopper, anyone? We say yes. (858/847-9616, www.venissimo.com)