Escape the Winter Blues

If you’re looking to escape the winter blues, check out one of these San Diego hotspots for a little slice of summer.

 

Coco Maya is inspired by exploring the history of the Islands and Latin American regions of the Caribbean Ocean, and they’ve mastered the art of finding sunshine on a stormy day! Open daily for brunch, happy hour, and dinner, their menu features dishes like Fried Oyster Shrooms, Pibil Tacos, or Coconut Shrimp. Pair with a Passionfruit Mojito, Jackfruit Spritz, or Coco Bongo Highball to shake off those winter blues.

 

Also known for their tropical vibes, Cococabana sits on the rooftop of Downtown Oceanside’s The Brick Hotel. Just take the elevator to the fourth floor and find yourself transported to a world of cabanas, cocktails, and everything you need to escape a gloomy day. Like their sister restaurant Coco Maya, Cococabana is open daily—rain or shine—with a mission to bring guests a slice of the Caribbean! Enjoy menu favorites like Wagyu Skewers, Jerk Butter Oysters, and a perfectly balanced list of cocktails, wines, and beers.  

Cococabana Jerk Butter Oysters

Miss B’s Coconut Club was Grind & Prosper’s first major project after forming in 2015 with visions of grandeur for San Diego. With a brunch menu that has attracted those looking for a tropical way to start the day since the beginning of 2016, the true star of the show at Miss B’s Coconut Club is rum. If drinking a Caribe Welcome from a coconut sounds like it might cure your blues, Miss B’s is the place for you; served with Puerto Rican Rum, Apricot Brandy, Coco Lopez, coconut water, and fresh lime juice. After all, how can you be sad when you’re drinking out of a coconut?  

 

Surf over to Mavericks Beach Club where they celebrate California’s infectious beach and surf culture—yes, even on darker days -- with five full bars, Baja-inspired cuisine, and lively entertainment. Mavericks hosts delicious cocktails like the Mavericks Mai Tai or their Spicy Margarita that will be sure to help you get your groove on in their dance club. Got two left feet? There is still plenty of live entertainment, delicious plates, and outdoor games to remind you that brighter days are head.

 

While San Diego takes a break from its usual beach weather, The Duck Dive prides itself on its year-round dedication to serving high-quality fare in a casual, beach lounge atmosphere. Join them for bottomless mimosas at weekday and weekend brunch, or end your night right with gastropub-inspired, contemporary American cuisine and their infamous Drunken Clam: a punch bowl filled with Rumhaven Coconut Rum, Cutwater Horchata Vodka, house-made pineapple cordial, Coco Lopez, fresh mint, lime juice, and Coconut Berry Red Bull. 

 

Park 101 has something for everyone looking for a mood boost in their dog-friendly, kid-friendly, multi-level, plaza-style complex! Their first floor houses Park Smoked Meats, home to lip-smacking barbecue. In a rush and looking for a quick treat? Their Deli & Dough serves ready-made juices, take-away sandwiches, fresh espresso, and ice cream. Park 101’s Garden Pub invites guests for alcoholic drinks, including 32 drafts on tap, a refreshing Frozé or sangria. Beat the cold winter weather on their Tamarack Deck, complete with fire pits and unbeatable views of Carlsbad Village.

 

Take shelter under the trestles of Japanese cherry blossoms at Cloak & Petal, the ideal spot to gather with friends and family in a space reminiscent of an abandoned Tokyo subway. Cloak & Petal will teleport you to another world, one far away from the dreariness of winter! Indulge in specialty rolls like their Tokyo Gangster with shrimp, asparagus, avocado, yamagobo, wagyu, crispy sweet garlic, spicy black garlic sauce, soy olive oil, micro greens, and smoked salt. Complete your meal with one of their cocktails, craft beers, or sake, and you’re sure to feel better in a heartbeat.