Arterra

The name of this restaurant derives from "art of the earth," and the moniker is no mere marketing gimmick. The menu is crafted based on what's available at Chino or Be Wise, local farms specializing in fine produce. Needless to say, the menu is regularly adapted to meet the schedule of Mother Earth. You'll never eat rigid hothouse tomatoes -- Arterra doesn't serve them in winter, when tomatoes don't grow naturally in San Diego. There's a small-plates menu designed for sharing, as well as traditional entrees; a sushi bar is here, as well. Housed in a businesslike, modern Marriott hotel, the broad dining room is impressive, with plush leather banquettes and accents of glass and copper. It's the stylish outdoor pool lounge, though, that has become Arterra's bread and butter; it hosts DJs Wednesday through Saturday.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.