Locally brewed, high-percentage beers are where it’s at in San Diego, with over 150 craft breweries calling the city home. We love Latine-owned Border X Brewing. Originally launched with a ruby-toned Blood Saison inspired by a hibiscus-based Mexican drink, this low-key taproom now stocks a wide range of innovative brews, including the sunshine-fuelled Horchata Golden Stout. Thirsty for more? Check out sister establishment, the women-owned Mujeres Brew House. Highlights include experimental brews, beer-based cocktails, tasting events and live music, plus bursting-with-flavour tacos from chef Bruja de la Cocina.

For a glimpse of San Diego’s intellectual conversation, head along to the spontaneous nightly gatherings of the Euro Bohemian Club at this unconventional bar beside the city’s Pacific Beach. Following the traditions of the Parisian avant-garde, this eccentric establishment asks visitors to escape the “electro-bubble” and engage in conversation and discussion with strangers, lubricated by Europe’s best port, sherry and absinthe. Modelled after the iconic Salons de Paris, it is the place to find poets, artists, epicureans and playful drinkers gathered around the fire, enjoying libations, live jazz music, the occasional flamenco performance and some first-rate talking points.

In Little Italy, Camino Riviera’s rattan pendants, palm fronds and cane-back chairs seem transported straight from a Tulum design hotel – and the colourful cocktails are as electrifying and awe-inspiring as jungle wildlife. Expect a drinks menu that borrows heavily from across the border, featuring a collection of seductive pours and a far-reaching agave list. Our repeat orders were the green pepper and tequila-based El Gordo, the fruity Zaragoza (tequila, passion fruit and lime) and – combining two of our favourite vices – the enticing Levántate, a mezcal and cold brew sipper warmed by allspice notes.