Cold Weather Comfort Foods


With the cold winter months fully taking a hold of San Diego, and plenty of rain forecast for this week, everyone is looking for the best way to warm up. What better way than to cozy up to your favorite dish? These San Diego hotspots have all the best classic dishes to keep you company throughout the chillier, rainier months. 

Start your comfort food journey with The Smoking Gun, Gaslamp’s twist on the classic neighborhood bar. Named after the old shooting range that existed in the basement, The Smoking Gun has become a staple among locals in San Diego. A popular spot to grab a cocktail and a quick bite to eat, their ever-growing success even allowed them to open their very own arcade within the bar this year. Friendly competition and cocktails aside, their menu offers mouthwatering food options. Order in or take it to go, their Wagyu Texas-Style Chili with ground wagyu, hatch chiles, poblano and red bell peppers, diced tomatoes, a side of sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and green onions is the perfect chili when you’re feeling chilly!  

DiCicco’s Calzone (courtesy photo)

Known for their authentic Italian cuisine in North County, DiCicco’s brings hospitality and comfort to a whole new level. What says Italian comfort food more than a steamy bowl of Minestrone Soup? Complete with fresh seasonal vegetables, kidney beans, garbanzo beans, and pasta; this is one hearty meal. Not craving soup? DiCicco’s extensive menu of pizzas, calzones, and other pasta dishes will also have you covered for the Italian meal you’ve been dreaming of.

While the temperature’s too low for a Summer-style BBQ outside, Smokey & the Brisket has all your favorite barbecue dishes that will help you bring the cookout inside where it’s warm and toasty. Smoking meat in-house daily, their team can only be described as artists of a perfect barbecue meal. Pair brisket, prime rib, chicken, salmon, and more with classic side dishes like mac ‘n’ cheese, baked cornbread, and mashed potatoes. With such a diverse menu, Smokey & the Brisket allows guests to craft the perfect recipe filled with their favorite comfort dishes!  

Conveniently located on Louisiana Street, in North Park, Louisiana Purchase will transport you to the French Quarter in New Orleans with each bite of NOLA-inspired cuisine! Let Chef Q handle supper and you’re guaranteed an evening of comfort food with a Southern flair. Their Uptown Kitchen Sink Gumbo stews up blonde roux gumbo, roasted chicken, andouille sausage, crawfish, shrimp, crab, and a heaping scoop of rice! Try their Spicy Chicken Skillet with one airline fried chicken, smoked gouda mac ‘n’ cheese, cornbread, and a chili glaze. Louisiana Purchase combines bold, yet comforting flavors perfect for a cold day.

A staple in San Diego for ten years now, barleymash is truly Infamous for their ability to make guests feel like family, thriving off two simple ideas: life is meant to be sipped and savored, and good times should always be shared. barleymash is also recognized for their house made Five Chili Chili, cooked to perfection, and topped with a three-cheese blend, sour cream, green onion, and crispy tobacco onion. Looking for something heartier to feed your soul? Order from their supper menu after 5 p.m. and enjoy their Red Chili & Garlic Braised Short Ribs with arugula mashed potatoes, roasted farmhouse veggies, crispy tobacco onions, and chili Colorado sauce! 

Whether you’re ordering for takeout to cozy up at home or looking for a night out filled with comfort food, there’s plenty of restaurants in San Diego ready to lend a hand with warming you up.

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