San Diego Reader Best of 2023

Flower feels

The famed Flower Fields of Carlsbad are among the few local attractions that have actually gotten better with time. The zoo? Natural-habitat-mania has put many of the animals out of sight. Sea World? Overrun with roller-coasters and other thrill rides. But the 55-acre Flower Fields remain a tranquil and beautiful celebration of the blooming world...

Stone rolls on

Stone, the best brewery in San Diego? What is this, 1999? Sure, it’s a bit of an obvious choice — and there are plenty of amazing smaller breweries in the county that deserve attention — but not only did Stone pave the way for many breweries that followed, it continues to evolve and surprise...

Pandemic problems, produce solutions

Sometimes, the best things come about by accident. That’s how it was with my pick for San Diego’s best Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) farm box, offered with free home delivery by Yasukochi Family Farms...

Re-Animated Records works weird magic

Re-Animated Records, in the heart of La Mesa’s bustling downtown “village,” is a monster of a record store — in more ways than one. It’s named after the Lovecraftian horror comedy Re-Animator, which is about a medical student who finds a way to re-animate corpses...

Classical comes out stronger

While the San Diego vibe might be dominated by flip-flops, microbrews, and disappointed Padres fans, something notable is brewing in the San Diego classical music scene. Since the end of the pandemic, San Diego classical music has been killing it...

Seven bridges hike – nature, history, adventure, views

Some call it a hike, others a walk. Nevertheless, this easy urban outing stands out as one of the best outdoor experiences in San Diego. Nestled in the heart of the city, this five-to-six-mile trail provides a unique adventure, seamlessly blending nature, history, and hidden vistas...

Chiropractic skeptic converts

When our family moved to San Diego from Washington State in July of 2009, we went through the usual adjustments: getting accustomed to new weather patterns, finding our place in a new community, and of course, dealing with new environmental allergens...

Youngblood bartender – ultimate service provider

Last month, a friend visited with his family from out of town, and as thanks for my hospitality, he bought ingredients for my favorite cocktail these days: a Vieux Carre. There are variations out there, but in my house, that means bourbon, cognac, good sweet vermouth, Benedictine, Peychaud’s and Angostura bitters, cocktail cherries, and orange rind...

Best cannibis concentrate discovered at Adams Avenue Street Fair

Michael “Ras Mike” Johns is a radio, TV, and festival host who has been reporting for the cannabis and reggae community since 2011. He is also the owner of Nug Radio, an online radio station that focuses on the cannabis industry and its intersection with music: reggae, hip hop, country, blues, EDM and more...