Serious Eats - seriouseats.com

get some mole and margaritas on the balcony at agave in old town. it's the one place in town my wife and I will not miss. truly outstanding food and comfy ambiance.

Everywhere has outdoor seating, so you're in luck there. Check signonsandiego.com entertainment/restaurant page. The "best of"s just came out this week. If you have a car, Mimmo's on India has great pasta, and a nice atmosphere. Nikki Rotten's in Gaslamp has good burgers and salads, if you don't mind the bar atmosphere. Red Pearl Kitchen is good for Pan-Asian. Cafe Sevilla is our favorite place for tapas (they also have a good salsa club downstairs). This is one time the down economy is in your favor. Most restaurants are running "recession" specials. And, while you're out, go to Rubio's for a fish taco. It's a local chain, so they're easy to find. Don't leave without your fish taco.

Old Town is great for tourists, but the overall quality of food at many of its restaurants has suffered greatly over the years. If you're willing to give up on the great view, the Hotel Solamar's restaurant is actually quite excellent. I'll also second the vote for Kous Kous. For tapas, I would actually vote for Costa Brava in Pacific Beach. And, if you really want a fish taco, forget Rubio's! Try El Zarape in the University Heights neighborhood (and make sure to try their avocado tomatillo salsa too). Unfortunately for the average visitor, most of San Diego's better food is located in (what even close-minded San Diegans believe to be) the less savory neighborhoods of San Diego. But, if you're not scared, here are some more options: Asmara (Eritrean restaurant in City Heights), El Salvadoreno (Salvadoran food just east of Downtown), and Island Spice (Jamaican place... also just east of Downtown). Don't forget that San Diego is basically famous for its plethora of taco shops. While locals usually have their own personal favorites, it's almost hard to go wrong at any of them. Good luck, and happy eating!