One of the most unique and elegant dining experiences in San Diego has been resurrected. There aren't many American cities where you can eat in a posh restaurant in a public park...and none where you can sip your wine in an old Moorish palace constructed for a world exhibition. But The Prado, in Balboa park allows you just that, along with the opportunity to dine and stroll (and what the hell, dance if you want) on terraces with tiled Alhambra fountains stepping down into a forested canyon. It's got the architecture, the class, the location...and even good food.
Don't let the array of sangrias, mojitos, teguinis, pisco sours, and elaborate margaritas fool you. Or the black bean or tortilla soups. This is not a "just like Spain or Mexico" deal, it's a modern international restaurant in spite of the dark wood and cathedral windows.
You can go the marina route with sashimi or saffron steamed Manila clams for openers, or try the vegetable napolean, chipotle-glazed steak skewers, crabcakes, or charred asparagus and forest mushrooms.
By then you'll be warmed up for things like chicken Milanese, salmon on sweet potato plantain mash, or pork prime rib.
If you're just doing lunch, try their own baked panini sandwiches: balsamic grilled portobello mushrooms and chiles, for instance, or grilled shrimp in smoked bacon. In other words, the cuisine doesn't coast on the matchless setting.
Check the menu at theirWebsite or, to book the place for a memorable wedding or event, this site
After eating, wonder the galleries and museums, or simply stroll around the fountain gardens just outside.