Congratulations to all the winners!
Every year, we ask our loyal readers to nominate their favorite restaurants, entertainment venues, boutique shops, vets, hair stylists, law offices and any other kind of business or professional they frequent for our Best of Mission Times Courier special section.
With so many businesses to choose from around the area, it may seem a little daunting to decide which ones stand out. Thanks to our loyal readers, you came through once again, identifying which businesses you find to be the best in their respective industries. This special issue highlights the businesses you think deserve the most recognition and continued support.
We encourage our readers to hang on to this Best of Mission Times Courier special section throughout the year as a handy guide for the next time you’re looking for an optometrist, a dry cleaner, a doctor, an Italian dinner, a brew pub or even coffee with friends.
And if by chance your favorite establishments were left out this year, we encourage you to keep your eye out for next year’s ballots, which will be published in our newspapers and available to fill out at bestofmission.voterfly.com.
After all, competition is part of the fun. We here at the Mission Times Courier congratulate the winners on a job well done, but also acknowledge all local businesses who are working through what can be challenging times and wish them all the best of luck in the coming years!
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🍽️ Food & Drink
🛍️ Shopping & Retail
💆 Health, Beauty & Wellness
🐾 Pets
🏠 Home & Services
🍽️ Food & Drink
Best Ahi
Winner: San Diego Poke Co.
The beloved, decades-long poke restaurant is now permanently closed.
Best American
Winner: The Duke
The Duke Cocktails & Grub offers a selection of all-American food: burgers, sandwiches and ice-cold drinks. They service private parties and group events by reservation online.
Best Appetizer
Winner: The Duke
(See listing under Best American.)
Best Bakery
Winner: cupCAKES a la Yola
Since 2015, cupCAKES a la Yola has served cakes and cupcakes of the richest quality. Perfect for any event, catering reservations of up to 2,000 cupcakes can be made online.
Best Bar
Winner: The Duke
(See listing under Best American.)
Best BBQ
Winner: West Coast Smoke and Tap House
Great smoked food, a selection of on-tap beers — West Coast Smoke and Tap House is the spot to watch a Padres game or just hang out.
Best Beer Selection
Winner: McGregor’s Ale House
McGregor’s is the spot for a good pint and a good time, housing a list of specials during the Padres’ season.
Best Breakfast
Winner: Brothers Family Restaurant
Since 1994, Brothers Family Restaurant has offered a full-range of breakfast eggs and sides — all until 2 p.m. every day. Make sure to save room for homemade dessert pies!
Best Brewery
Winner: Good Pressure Brewing Co.
If you’re looking for community and craft beers, you’ve come to the right place at Good Pressure Brewing Co. Here, you can try IPAs, ale and rotating seasonal seltzers.
Best Brunch
Winner: The Trails Eatery
This featured eatery offers vintage breakfast, lunch and drinks with a side of hospitality.
Best Burger
Winner: The Duke
(See listing under Best American.)
Best Burrito
Winner: Cotijas Taco Shop
Bringing Mexican street food style to San Diego, Cotijas Taco Shop offers bold flavors in their tacos, burritos and bowls. Download their app to have food right at your doorstep.
Best Cafe
Winner: Honey Haven Coffee Bar
Honey Haven Coffee Bar prepares handcrafted coffees with signature flavors — perfect for a morning or midday boost. Join their Birthday Club for a surprise on your special day!
Best Casual Dining
Winner: The Duke
(See listing under Best American.)
Best Chinese
Winner: Hi! Dumplings
Fresh noodles, hot soups and authentic Chinese cuisine are prepared at Hi! Dumplings, bringing taste and culture to your taste buds.
Best Coffee Shop
Winner: The Simple Coffee Shop
This shop is an ambient stop for a coffee, snack and a calm reset.
Best Deli
Winner: Cheers Deli & Liquor
Hot and cold, California and New York — Cheers Deli & Liquor knows how to combine the best of the best in their fresh-cut sandwiches. Top it off with a premium spirit while you’re at it.
Best Desserts
Winner: cupCAKES a la Yola
(See listing under Best Bakery.)
Best Dinner
Winner: Mona’s Italian Restaurant
Mona’s provides authentic, home-style Italian food in an atmospheric dining experience. You’ll be Italian after a savory meal there.
Best Donuts
Winner: Heavenly Donuts
In the Allied Gardens/Del Cerro area, Heavenly Donuts are frosted and fresh, not to mention reasonably priced!
Best Fine Dining
Winner: Anthony’s Fish Grotto
Founded on “Mama” Ghio’s secret recipes, Anthony’s celebrates 80 years of fond memories over iconic seafood favorites.
Best Fish Taco
Winner: Cotijas Taco Shop
(See listing under Best Burrito.)
Best Greek
Winner: Troy’s Greek Restaurant
Greek favorites like spanakopita, gyros and moussaka are served fresh at Troy’s, a decades-long treasure in the Navajo area.
Best Happy Hour
Winner: The Duke
(See listing under Best American.)
Best Ice Cream / Frozen Yogurt
Winner: Foster’s Freeze
Foster’s Freeze is known for its old-fashioned burgers and soft serve ice cream, supplying an oldie but a goodie to the community for over 58 years.
Best Indian
Winner: Himalayan Curry & Grill
The Indian home-style restaurant offers traditional favorites and all are welcome at the all-you-can-eat, discounted lunch buffet from Monday to Sunday, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Best Irish Pub
Winner: Hooley’s Irish Pub
Irish pub culture teleports to San Diego at Hooley’s with pints and food that’ll make you stay a while.
Best Italian
Winner: Mona’s Italian Restaurant
(See listing under Best Dinner.)
Best Japanese
Winner: Osaka Japanese Food & Sushi
Flavors and friendly service combine to create the best dining experience at Osaka Japanese Food & Sushi. Rolls, bento boxes and quality vegetable dishes are just some items found at this family-owned restaurant.
Best Juice Bar
Winner: Pure Press Juice Bar
Whether you’re in the mood for a sweet treat or a post-workout reward, Pure Press is here for you with natural and filling smoothies.
Best Lunch
Winner: Troy’s Greek Restaurant
(See listing under Best Greek.)
Best Margarita
Winner: Casa de Pico
Casa de Pico is an award-winning Mexican restaurant in Grossmont, with vibrant decorations and flavorful dishes. They deserve a visit just for their homemade flour tortillas and atmosphere.
Best Martini
Winner: Camel’s Bar and Grill
Camel’s Bar and Grill hosts live bands on Saturdays to complement a sharp collection of beers, wines and cocktails. Come in for a dirty martini and some chicken sliders.
Best Mexican
Winner: Casa de Pico
(See listing under Best Margarita.)
Best Patio Dining
Winner: Anthony’s Fish Grotto
A family-owned East County premier spot known for its large selection of fresh seafood dishes, well-priced wine and popular pre-made party seafood platters perfect for any occasion or holiday.
Best Pet Friendly
Winner: Anthony’s Fish Grotto
(See listing under Best Patio Dining.)
Best Pho
Winner: Pho Express
Everything you would expect from a Vietnamese restaurant: noodle dishes to sandwiches and your favorite pho.
Best Pizza
Winner: Mona’s Italian Restaurant
Authentic home style Italian food with a perfect atmosphere for private parties and intimate experiences, low prices and take-out options.
Best Sandwich
Winner: Cheers Deli & Liquor
Highest quality sandwiches and salads with meats and cheese freshly cut right before your eyes, bringing New York style to California.
Best Seafood
Winner: Anthony’s Fish Grotto
(See listing under Best Patio Dining.)
Best Sports Bar
Winner: McGregor’s Ale House
It is impossible to not have a great night with great food and beer — perfect for date night, lunch with colleagues or drinks with friends.
Best Steak
Winner: Bully’s East Prime Bistro Sports Bar
Named after La Jolla jockey agent George Bullington, Bully’s is known for its award winning prime rib, fresh seafood, steaks and ribs.
Best Sunday Brunch
Winner: Troy’s Greek Restaurant
A local favorite of the Navajo area for decades, the family-owned and operated classic Greek spot features staples like gyros, souvlaki and spanakopita — perfect for casual meals and special occasions.
Best Sushi
Winner: Osaka Japanese Food & Sushi
(See listing under Best Japanese.)
Best Thai
Winner: The Corner Thai Kitchen
Sisters Arleen and Aroy Pudwong bring a piece of Thailand to the table with dishes inspired by their family recipes, showcasing authentic Thai street food for an affordable price.
Best Vegetarian
Winner: Himalayan Curry & Grill
Indian Nepalese fine dining that offers special events and catering options, with every plate becoming a cultural journey.
Best Wings
Winner: KnB Bistro & Bottle Shop
Delicious street tacos, chicken wings and strong spirits with a killer happy hour from 3–6 p.m. Monday through Friday.
🛍️ Shopping & Retail
Best Boutique
Winner: Artifacts & Artichokes
A home and garden store that fuses indoor outdoor living with a creative space. Perfect for modern, vintage, organic and minimalist vibes and bohemian lovers.
Best Consignment / Resale
Winner: Looks Better On Me
An ever-changing selection of items featuring extensive arrays of women’s clothing, handbags, shoes, accessories, jewelry and more. Looks Better On Me strives to bring the best quality and price with excellent customer service.
Best Furniture
Winner: Eco Mod Furniture
Eco Mod Furniture is an eco-friendly home decorating business that provides clients with designs that fit their lifestyle.
Best Garden Supply
Winner: San Carlos Ace Hardware
Offering a solid selection of tools and community-focused service, they’re the go-to spot for homeowners and DIYers in the area.
Best Gift Shop
Winner: Artifacts & Artichokes
(See listing under Best Boutique.)
Best Hardware Store
Winner: Dixieline Lumber
Each Dixieline Home Center has a sales counter where you can find expert advice and a complete lumberyard where lumber is cut and milled for your specific needs.
Best Health Food Store
Winner: Windmill Farms Market
Windmill Farms is a grocery market and full-service deli that specializes in fresh produce.
Best Jewelry
Winner: Enhancery Jewelers
Enhancery Jewelers is a women-owned, family-run business that sources unique gemstones and ensures the best value for their customers.
💆 Health, Beauty & Wellness
Best Acupuncture
Winner: SimplyStrong Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine
Lifelong friends inspired by their own grandparents to provide specialized care for older adults in the community. Their holistic approach values true healing and personalized treatment plans.
Best Barber
Winner: AJ Pros Barber Shop
Known for its neighborhood charm, personalized service and affordable prices — perfect for a quick trim or getting ready for any occasion.
Best Chiropractor
Winner: DC Doctors
Combining effective chiropractic adjustments, rehabilitation exercises and massage techniques, their goal is to help you feel your best and minimize pain.
Best Cosmetic
Winner: Pizazz! Hair and Nail Salon
You’ll be amazed with the comprehensive lineup of services and dedication to your personal wellness, whether it is outer beauty or inner beauty.
Best Dentist
Winner: Mission Trails Dentistry
Combined with gentle service and a soothing environment, Mission Trails Dentistry makes going to the dentist a positive experience by understanding the importance of feeling comfortable with your dental provider and offering a wide range of services.
Best Dermatologist
Winner: Dermatology & Laser Center of San Diego
A full-service dermatologist practice offering advanced medical and cosmetic solutions, with experienced physicians and a clinical team committed to high quality care.
Best Doctor
Winner: Dr. Michlin MD
Dr. Bernard Michlin is a board certified medical professional who treats adult diseases with specialties in women’s health, substance abuse, mental health, and individuals with mental impairments.
Best Dry Cleaner
Winner: Primo Alterations & Dry Cleaning
Primo Alterations provides customers with the highest quality of service in cleaning, tailoring, and alterations. The shop specializes in expert clothing alterations, bridal alterations, wedding dress alterations, suite tailoring, and custom fittings.
Best Gym
Winner: Vertica Fitness San Diego
Vertica Fitness is a pole workout gym that embraces body positivity and welcomes people of all different skill levels.
Best Hair Salon
Winner: Robert’s Salon
A hair salon that provides styles for every occasion: weddings, proms, photo shoots.
Best Manicure / Pedicure
Winner: Pizazz! Hair and Nail Salon
(See listing under Best Cosmetic.)
Best Martial Arts
Winner: Allied Gardens Tang Soo Do Karate Academy
The Allied Gardens Tang Soo Do World Taekwondo Institute (WTI) provides a realistic approach to self-defense situations in a safe atmosphere.
Best Massage
Winner: Waring Massage Spa
Waring Massage Spa is the perfect place for customized, affordable, and convenient foot and full-body massages.
Best Optometrist
Winner: Allied Gardens Optometry
Allied Gardens Optometry provides a welcoming environment to determine the health of your eyes in an annual exam.
Best Personal Trainer
Winner: Viva Pilates Studio
(See listing under Best New Business.)
Best Physical Therapist / Rehab
Winner: Longevity Physical Therapy
Longevity Physical Therapy is a state-of-the-art physical therapy facility that assesses and treats the root cause of your pain and dysfunction.
Best Pilates
Winner: Viva Pilates Studio
(See listing under Best New Business.)
Best Waxing / Threading
Winner: Reina Eyebrows & Facial Threading
Reina Eyebrows & Facial Threading is a trusted beauty studio specializing in eyebrow and facial threading that is gentler and more efficient.
Best Yoga Studio
Winner: Hapa Yoga
Hapa Yoga & Fitness is a wellness studio that offers yoga, fitness and holistic care with classes for all skill levels.
🐾 Pets
Best Pet Boarding / Day Care
Winner: Canine’s Unleashed, Inc.
Canine’s Unleashed, Inc. is a pet service company that offers dog daycare, boarding, bathing, and various toys and treats.
Best Pet Groomer
Winner: Suds N Pups Dog Grooming & Wash
A family owned and operated company that strives to deliver the best service to their customers and their furry family members. Two convenient locations — Allied Gardens and San Carlos.
Best Veterinarian
Winner: Mission Valley Pet Clinic
Striving to provide the highest quality care and products for patients and clients, Mission Valley Pet Clinic is focused on bringing professionalism and teamwork to the table with their trained staff open to innovative changes and ideas.
🏠 Home & Services
Best Accountant
Winner: Best Team Tax & Financial, Inc.
One of the leading firms providing quality, personalized financial guidance with expertise ranging from basic tax management, accounting services, financial planning and statements.
Best Art Gallery
Winner: Del Cerro Gallery
For 31 years, Del Cerro Gallery has merged a healthcare office and art gallery to give local artists a chance to display and sell their work, with new work exhibited every three months.
Best Attorney
Winner: San Diego Elder Law Center
With decades of experience, San Diego Elder Law Center is recognized for their compassionate expert guidance in elder law and long-term care solutions to help families navigate complex and difficult matters.
Best Auto Dealer
Winner: DCH Honda of Mission Valley
Committed to helping you find the right vehicle whether new or used, DCH Honda of Mission Valley is dedicated to helping you maintain your vehicle and keep hard-earned money in your pocket.
Best Auto Repair
Winner: John’s Automotive
John Eppstein cherishes his auto repair shop and the customers he serves. Built on the principles, determination and heart, he is committed to maintaining a standard of excellence for his team, customers and their vehicles.
Best Bank
Winner: Mission Federal Credit Union
A member-owned not-for-profit dedicated to serving the financial needs of the community.
Best Bike Shop
Winner: Pedal Pushing Bicycle Shop
Local spot for new bikes, parts, accessories and more, assisted by a knowledgeable crew who knows how to get it done right.
Best Car Wash
Winner: Soapy Joe’s
While using 80% less water than you would use in your driveway, Soapy Joe’s takes the stress and load of cleaning your car professionally off your shoulders.
Best Casino
Winner: Sycuan Casino Resort
San Diego’s first and luckiest casino, just 30 minutes outside of San Diego, with world-class dining complete with a swim-up bar and lazy river — perfect for any Playcation.
Best Computer Repair
Winner: SD Bytes Computer Repair
Fast, trusted and versatile — SD Bytes is committed to customer satisfaction, handling everything from virus removal to liquid damage repair, all on-site. If they can’t fix the problem, you don’t pay.
Best Contractor / Construction
Winner: Allied Contracting
A longtime member of Home Advisor with an Elite Service designation, Allied Contracting is dedicated to superior customer service in helping with all your residential needs — from design and engineering all the way to the finish.
Best Credit Union
Winner: San Diego County Credit Union
San Diego’s largest locally-owned financial institution with over $13 billion in assets, the not-for-profit credit union serves over 285,000 native San Diegans and has been part of the community since 1938.
Best Dispensary
Winner: March & Ash
March & Ash is a licensed cannabis dispensary that offers high quality recreational and medical cannabis products. There are ten locations across Southern California.
Best Electrician
Winner: Ideal Plumbing, Heating & Air
Ideal Plumbing, Heating & Air specializes in plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical, and complete kitchen and bath remodeling services.
Best Financial Planner
Winner: Mission Trails Financial
Mission Trails Financial offers tailored comprehensive financial planning that fits clients’ lifestyles.
Best Florist
Winner: The SD Flower Shop
The SD Flower Shop serves high-quality floral products at a great venue.
Best Hospital
Winner: UC San Diego Health East Campus
UC San Diego’s East Campus Medical Center is dedicated to providing high-quality health care to the communities of eastern San Diego.
Best Insurance Broker
Winner: Farmers Insurance – Leonard Agosta
Leonard Agosta, a dedicated Farmers Insurance agent, helps families and individuals with their financial futures.
Best Locksmith
Winner: 7 Day Locksmith
7 Day Locksmith helps with residential, commercial, and automotive lockouts as well as other lock and key issues.
Best New Business
Winner: Viva Pilates Studio
Viva Pilates Studio is a welcoming space where San Diegans can move and thrive no matter their experience level.
Best Pharmacy
Winner: Provision Pharmacy
Provision Pharmacy offers a range of pharmaceutical services and emphasizes personal care and support for their customers.
Best Photographer
Winner: Brent Haywood Photography
Brent Haywood Photography captures the essence of the subjects, structures and landscapes in their photo work.
Best Plumber
Winner: Affordable Plumbing Company
Affordable Plumbing Company offers a variety of services, including unblocking pipes, drains and toilets; fixing sewage pipes; and repairing and installing hot water heaters.
Best Pool Service
Winner: Blue Tide Swimming Pool Service & Repair
Blue Tide offers a variety of services for your pool, including regular maintenance, green-to-clean, filter cleans and equipment repairs.
Best Real Estate Agent
Winner: Jeff Rosa, Realtor
With over two decades of experience in San Diego County, Jeff Rosa uses his expertise to guide clients through every stage of the real estate process.
Best Real Estate Office
Winner: Market Real Estate
Led by real estate agent Jeff Rosa, Market Real Estate provides clients with expert guidance, patience and passion for real estate.
Best Tutoring
Winner: Mathnasium
Mathnasium helps children leap ahead in math whether they started out behind or ahead. They understand any child can be successful in math, using experienced tutors and proprietary teaching materials and techniques.