words by Ingrid Yang | photos by Haley Hill Photography
Ok, we have to admit. We cheated.
We’ve already been to the Zinqué in Venice Beach, and we love it. It’s one of our favorite café/restaurants in LA. So… can we give an unbiased opinion on the new Zinqué that opened up in San Diego’s Little Italy? We can give it the gold ole’ California try.
This popular LA bistro has taken residence on Hawthorne and Kettner on the ground floor of the new luxury apartment building, AV8. In LA, from 630am to 2am, you’ll see hipsters and trend-setters from all walks sipping their lattes before yoga class or enjoying French wine on any given week night. Zinqué Little Italy is hoping for the same for San Diegans. Because let’s be real, who doesn’t love a spot that does the breakfast, lunch, dinner thing like you see in London and Paris… and a spot that does it right.
Zinqué’s décor is minimalist yet chic, with large windows that slide open with high ceilings to fully open the restaurant to the breezy sidewalk exposure… we are so Paris right now. The natural wood and dark leather decor really does offer the perfect spot for all occasions. Because of its generous hours, Zinqué is sort of like a diner, but more sophisticated. This dapper “fine-dining hall” brilliantly caters to the growing population of millennials migrating to San Diego, who are used to satisfying their ever-more-worldly palates during international travels, and want to enjoy it in their hometown too.
Bring your laptop, and enjoy breakfast with a delicate almond tart and a perfectly made latte from their full La Colombe coffee program. And be patient with yourself as you browse the pastry spread, as they keep the cases stocked with muffins, scones, croissants, quiches, and other fluffy pastries. It’s impossible to make a decision of which to get… so my mottos is, why not get two? Maybe you’ll make friends with the kind (and cute) stranger next to you if you’re willing to share. There’s also a hot breakfast menu, offering yogurt, breakfast sandwiches, frittatas and a prosciutto gruyere croissant (like a Croque Monsieur, but better).
The lunch and dinner menu incorporate a French flair, but the flavors are global. Lunch offers soups, salads, sandwiches, tartines (flatbreads)… even lasagna and an ah-mazing grass fed burger. The dinner menu adds a few large-format dishes including steak frites and a grilled whole Branzino.
Don’t forget about the impressive wine list which is about 50 percent French, a quarter American/California, and a quarter of other crowd-pleasing favorites. It’s spread out amongst the cocktail program and the beer program, as well… something to please everyone.
So, good news downtowners! Zinqué is here. The little Italy newcomer pulls off the style, class, and variety that we love about its LA veteran sibling. It’s got something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a first date spot to meet the Bumble date you’re excited about, or need to meet a client for an early breakfast meeting, Zinqué’s is your new go-to hotspot. And it’s ready to serve you with a European-style coffee, tart, and a side of California-Parisian style.
Zinqué San Diego is open “from early morning to early morning” and is located at 2101 Kettner Boulevard, San Diego, CA, 92101.
7AM-12am Sunday through Thursday
7:30AM-2AM Friday and Saturday
