Before we begin with this week’s column we would like to publicly apologize to anyone who may have been offended by last week’s column. When we came up with this idea we wanted it to be fun, light and yes a little over the top. Last week, clearly we went a little too far and for that we apologize. In the future we will work to keep it light and fun.

Moving forward to this week, Pride 2010 is here and thousands of people will make their way into Hillcrest and the surrounding areas to celebrate, shop, party and eat!

Bearing this in mind we thought it might be fun to list a few places for our visitors and, of course, our loyal readers. Please note parts of this editorial are blended with the individual business statements posted on the internet

Barrio Star Mexican Soul Food, 2706 Fifth Ave. at Redwood

This place is one of our favorites and the tortilla soup is to die for. The food will touch your heart and soul as you slowly enjoy every bite. I understand they are now serving Sunday Brunch. Phone: 619-501-STAR

Jimmy Carter’s Mexican Café, 3172 Fifth Ave.

A long time San Diego favorite serving breakfast and a great taste of the Southwest Cuisine. Be sure to check out the Happy Hour from 4 – 8 with Big Mike. Phone: 619-295-2070

Inn at The Park / Top of The Park, 525 Spruce St. at Fifth Avenue

This historical landmark boasts 2 great places to dine, relax with friends and enjoy the view.

Inn at the Park Restaurant and Bar serves the finest in creative Contemporary American Cuisine in a romantic, relaxed setting. The restaurant is located on the lower level of the Park Manor Suites Hotel, and proudly serves San Diego’s finest seafood, all organic beef steaks, pastas and salads. Our Executive Chef and his team strive to make your every meal a memorable one.

The Top of the Park Penthouse Restaurant serves contemporary American cuisine weekdays from 11:30am to 2:00pm. Enjoy your next business or leisure lunch with tantalizing dishes and stunning panoramic views in the newly remodeled Top of the Park penthouse. Dine comfortably on the outside patio or inside the Hall of Mirrors for a casual yet memorable dining experience. Phone: 619-291-0999

R Gang Eatery, 3683 Fifth Ave. near Pennsylvania Avenue

Out and proud local celeb Chef Rich Sweeny has recently opened R Gang Eatery. Menu items featuring ingenious new twists on classic American favorites will include: minted lamb Salisbury steak, steak Diane, Indian spiced chicken curry pot pie, sopressata and smoked gouda mac ‘n cheese and a very inventive chipped beef on toast, among others. We had dinner here recently and the food is truly wonderful. Phone: 619-677-2845

The Big Three: Urban MO’S, Baja Betty’s & Gossip Grill – all three are located on University Ave.

What can we say, these are the most popular places in Hillcrest! Every day they serve up some scrumptious chow and cocktails. Always a great time at any one of the Big Three! MO’S: 619-491-0400, Baja Betty’s: 619-269-8510 and Gossip Grill: 619-260-8023

Ichiban, 1449 University Ave.

Some of the best Sushi in town, inexpensive and tasty! For their happy hour they offer ? priced sushi and we have never had a bad meal here! Phone: 619-299-7203

Crest Café, 425 Robinson Ave.

I love the “Orange Marmalade French Toast” stuffed with cream cheese and if you order a side of bacon you will be taken on a wonderful trip to the land of happy eating! Phone: 619-295-2510

City Deli, 535 University Ave.

This is such a great place for dessert. Their homemade desserts are always fresh and delightful. Phone: 619-295-2474

Babycakes, 3766 Fifth Ave.

This is by far a favorite of many for coffee and dessert. They truly take the art of baking to a whole new level and whip up the best cup cakes on the West Coast. They also now have BABY’S BAR, serving up liquid sweets. Check them out. Phone: 619-296-4173

Ortega’s Mexican Bistro, 141 University Ave.

They give you a great dining experience serving up a great flavor in Mexican food. Phone: 619-692-4200

Alexis’ Greek Café, 3863 Fifth Ave.

This place is way under the radar and hardly ever gets mentioned. They have been open for well over 18 years and serve up some great tasting Greek food plus you can sit right by the window and watch the Mecca of humanity walk by. Truly a great place. Phone: 619-297-1777

Pizza Nova, 3955 Fifth Ave.

This is a fun place to gather with friends and experience a wide variety of foods and appetizers. Their Pizza is fabulous! Phone: 619-296-6682

Kip’s Café, 3925 Fourth Ave.

Recently relocated to Hillcrest from El Cajon. They have a huge following and made the move when their landlord raised the rent forcing them to relocate. Jane, owner found a location in Hillcrest and poured an enormous amount of money into her new restaurant. Kip’s offers Japanese and Chinese cuisine and recently started serving alcoholic beverages. The Lemon Chicken with white rice is awesome. Phone: 619-298-0127

Brian’s American Eatery, 1451 Washington St.

A BIG WINNER! See last weeks review. Phone: 619-296-8268

Pizzeria Bruno Napolentano, 4207 Park Blvd.

San Diego’s only restaurant specializing in traditional Naples style wood fired pizza. Complimenting our menu is a unique selection of moderately priced domestic and Italian wine and beer. All graciously served in a warm, friendly and relaxing atmosphere. We love their food! Phone: 619-260-1311

Mosaic Wine Bar, 3422 30th St.

Voted San Diego’s “Best New Wine Bar” by San Diego Magazine!! A casual eclectic environment, celebrating an array of the world’s most distinctive wines in San Diego’s unique North Park Neighborhood – Check out their Ad on the incredible Wine sale in this week’s paper. Phone: 619-906-4747

Eddie’s Philadelphia Steaks, Hoagies & Burgers, 3501 30th St.

Eddie’s serves with pride authentic philly steaks, hoagies and black angus beef burgers using the highest quality meats and ingredients. all menu items are made by hand with love. Phone: 619-296-6325

Soho Restaurant & Lounge, 3025 El Cajon Blvd.

Open for Lunch & Dinner also serve fine wine and beer. Owner Carlos De Narvaez and his staff make you feel right at home. One of our favorites! Phone: 619-764-5475

Loving Hut Restaurant, 1905 El Cajon Blvd. at Georgia Street

This place is truly awesome for the vegetarian and vegan food lovers. So far we have tried the Tofu, Hamburger, Shrimp, Mongolian Beef and Orange Chicken. The Carrot Cake is made without any dairy products and is really good. Frank said he will be a regular. Phone: 619-683-9490.

In closing we would like to welcome everyone visiting San Diego and wish you a memorable time during San Diego Pride 2010.