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San Diego Metro - PlanJam.com

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Neighborhood: Horton Plaza

Horton Plaza

by Douglass Pinkard

Horton PlazaAt first sight, Downtown San Diego's famed Horton Plaza appears to be just another Southern California mall: shops, restaurants, vending carts, teenagers – the works. However, once inside the structure named for the same San Diego family whose name Dr. Seuss used for his famous character and you'll soon see why the famously "fun" architectural plan has been baffling visitors and regulars alike for over two decades. If you enjoy searching for your ride after a day of shopping, you'll soon see why Horton Plaza is the go-to location for those with the patience of Job or the sense of humor of the good Dr. Seuss himself. After all, when the parking structure and the shopping mall itself enjoy different numbering schemes, hilarity is sure to ensue.

But go for the adventure and you'll stay for the shops, stores, and eating establishments. Macy's and Abercrombie & Fitch enjoy residence here, right alongside less well known names such as Chico's and Wet Seal. Sam Goody's has your music needs covered, while Coach has bags for those on a budget, albeit a large one.

Drop the kids at the Foot Locker, the GameStop, or the Gap, and you're free to enjoy lunch at La Salsa or Panda Express. Royal India Express and the Boston & Maine Fish Company have what you need to rejuvenate, unless a tasty Wetzel's Pretzel or Cinnabon are all you need. Of course, there is fine dining to be had at Samba Grill, where the Brazilian all-you-can eat barbecue is literally an on-going feast, while Napa Valley Grille is one San Diego's best dining experiences anywhere. Of course, the Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream shop has a sweet treat for you, as well. And once you think you're ready to go in search of your car you're going to want an invigorating mug of coffee first – fortunately there's now a Starbucks on nearly every level of the mall.

So if you're anxious to blur the distinction between shopping adventure and bewildering ordeal, and relish the opportunity to cry: "dude, where's my car?" then Horton Plaza is where you'll want to shop till you drop.

Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery

by Denise Shively

Rock BottomThe perfect place for a night on the town with friends, Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery offers a friendly atmosphere coupled with handcrafted beers and a unique menu you won't find anywhere else.

Their on-site brewery ensures you'll get a fresh, delicious beer time after time. With over 100 beer awards to their name, Rock Bottom Brewery definitely knows what they're doing!

You can also peruse their diverse menu, where you'll find everything from soups and salads, to hamburgers and homemade desserts.

Try their Buffalo Fajitas or Honey Rosemary Chicken for a delicious twist on the evening. Or you can always throw back a delcious brown ale and chow down on a Hickory Burger.

Whatever your taste buds crave you'll be sure to find something that'll have you coming back for more.