San Diego punches well above its weight when it comes to restaurants and chefs with heavy-hitting credentials. A "Top Chef" winner? Yep, we have one. Master French Chef? That, too. James Beard honors and nominations? Too many to count. And that extreme rarity, a restaurant with three Michelin stars? You better believe it. Here are but a few of the proudest sons, daughters and kitchens of San Diego.

With so many exceptional bars and eateries within—yes—pitching distance, it's no wonder Petco Park allows baseball fans to exit and re-enter the stadium at any time, and to bring food inside. That means you can enjoy the spoils of the neighborhood before, after, and even during a game. And there are many places to do just that. Here are seven options, from divey to classy and a few in between.

Charming Julian, an hour east of downtown, could aptly be described “as American as apple pie.” Nestled in the picturesque Cuyamaca Mountains in East County, Julian is famous for its mouth-watering apple pies and cider from local orchards along with a rich California gold rush history. You can find Victorian-style architecture, old-fashioned stores, country-style restaurants, scenic hiking trails and a friendly country atmosphere in one of San Diego’s rural treasures.

San Diego is the perfect destination for families looking to spend quality time at the beach, at a world-class attraction or up close and personal with wildlife!