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Best Gourmet Food Shops in San Diego

Best Gourmet Food Shops in San DiegoSince your cravings for gourmet cheese and wine never cease, it’s probably a good idea to find only the best gourmet food shops to satisfy your needs. San Diego is home to a range of gourmet restaurants and markets, but the specialty gourmet food stores are a great place to round up the area’s finest goods. From fresh fish and produce, to specialty desserts and wine, here’s where you’ll find the city’s best:

A trip to the bakery is even better when you can count on gourmet cookies, brownies, and a lineup of specialty sandwiches; Con Pane Rustic Breads & CafĂ© delivers all of this and more, with a bustling take out counter or sidewalk tables to enjoy the downtown view. Starting off the day with a croissant or cinnamon roll is sure to get things going on a positive note. Head here for lunch, or just a snack; this is a neighborhood bakery that has quickly become a local favorite. Call (619) 224-4344 for the day’s sandwich specials, or stop in at 1110 Rosecrans Street for your sweet treat.

Sunday mornings are filled with the buzz of great food at the Hillcrest Farmer’s Market on Lincoln Street. The eco-friendly community here brings forward some of the best organic food around; it’s farmer’s market haven with fresh fruit, locally baked goods, and plenty of vegetables for those healthy lunches. This is the place to indulge in gourmet tastes with fresh honey, chocolate, and fresh jam or preserves. The market takes place rain or shine and will quickly become a part of your weekend activities.

If you’re on the hunt for the perfect cheese board, make your way to Venissimo Cheese, a gourmet cheese shop that rounds up cheese from countries around the world. Rare varieties are their specialty, so don’t be afraid to ask for a specific type; the hosts and owners are always eager to tell as story, and the shop has become famous for stocking some of the finest cheese products and gourmet foods of the world. This shop is located at 754 W. Washington Street in San Diego, and it’s open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

When you need a wine accompaniment to your gourmet meal, head to Wine Steals for one of the largest selections of classic and reserve wine. The store also hosts tasting classes and special events throughout the week, so be sure to call ahead and find out when to snag a spot. There’s a gourmet cheese shop right behind the wine shop, and the experts here will guide you in the right direction for any food and wine pairing questions you might have. Wine Steals is located at 1243 University Avenue in San Diego; call (619) 295-1188 for more information.

Be sure to make a stop at Point Loma Seafoods for fresh fish and sushi trays; this market features a wide range of fresh seafood and large selection of specialty catches. Get here early on weekends because it’s one spot that’s always busy; the owners bring in the fresh sea food directly from local fishermen, and the store also serves a range of hot entrees and sandwiches in the deli area. The sushi deli uses real Snow Crab meat, and is perfect for an upcoming entertaining or catering events. The shop is located at 2805 Emerson Street; call (619) 223-1109 for more information.

From gourmet baked goods to world-class wine, you’re sure to round up quite a collection of the world’s best in San Diego. Putting together a gourmet meal is a great way to celebrate and indulge little; use quality, organic ingredients whenever possible and explore the variety at these top spots in one of California’s health-conscious cities.