ELITE9.6/10Kinme

Brad McMichael — the San Diego Foodie Guy — is a veteran turned local food creator on a mission to champion San Diego's small and family-owned restaurants. He is one of the most prolific tastemakers covering America's Finest City on Social Foodie, and his following is built on an unwavering commitment to eating and shopping local. His coverage spans San Diego proper along with Chula Vista, Coronado, La Jolla, Carlsbad, Encinitas, National City, and Escondido.
If there's one thing Brad is known for, it's the hunt for the perfect taco and breakfast burrito — a genuine San Diego obsession. His picks include Tijuana-style taquerias, KeBurros in National City, Ortiz's Taco Shop, and Abbey's Real Texas BBQ, alongside standbys like Crown Bistro in Coronado, The Fish Market for seafood, and Cutwater for a tasting-room experience. From carne asada and lengua to fresh-caught fish and craft cocktails, his coverage captures the full range of what makes San Diego's border-adjacent food culture so distinctive.
Brad's content is grounded in community. He regularly spotlights local businesses, features his family in his posts, and hosts giveaways that give back to the people who follow him — the mark of a creator who sees food as a way to support his city rather than just document it. For anyone hunting the best tacos, burritos, and family-run gems in San Diego, his Social Foodie profile is the map worth following.
See all their picks
Follow Brad McMichael on Social Foodie to see every restaurant they've reviewed — all verdicts, what to order, and places mapped so you always know where to go.