A Local Guide to University Heights, San Diego

University Heights in San Diego is about as big an enigma as our old home loan documents.

Those showed that we purchased a home in University Heights, although common wisdom around here would suggest we were actually in North Park…or maybe even Normal Heights.

It all sort of blends together once you get to this part of the city, but at the very least, we got to know University Heights as our friendly neighbor during our seven years in San Diego.

If you’re visiting, I urge you to step away from the beach boardwalks and explore the best of University Heights. You’ll be rewarded with solid eats, not to mention my respect!

Where is University Heights, San Diego?

University Heights is located northeast of downtown San Diego and Balboa Park. It’s bordered by North Park to the south, Normal Heights to the east, State Route 163 and Hillcrest to the west, and Interstate 8 and Mission Valley to the north.

The main commercial area of University Heights runs along Park Boulevard.

Why is it called University Heights?

If you’re looking around and are like, “Where’s the university?” you’re not alone. The neighborhood’s name comes from the original plans. University Heights was to be the home of a University of Southern California campus, but those plans fell through.

If you’re wondering where the heck a university in San Diego would have even gone in the neighborhood, the space is currently occupied by my former nemesis, the headquarters of the San Diego Unified School District.

Before their installment, though, the site was the home of the State Normal School, a teaching college and a second attempt for higher learning on that plot of mesa. The school ended up moving a few miles away, eventually becoming San Diego State University.

Note: The Normal in the name refers to the Normal Street it’s on, by the way, not anything more controversial.

University Heights: A Brief History

Once plans for higher learning in the area fell through, University Heights became known for its green space. The San Diego Cable Railway opened a five-acre public green space known as The Bluffs where Adams Avenue meets Park Boulevard.

Imagine folks enjoying the foliage and fresh air or riding the streetcars that dominated the landscape in the 1880s.

What a world!

When the railway company was forced to sell to the highest bidder, The Bluffs went along with it, becoming Mission Cliffs Garden. That park became more than gardens with the addition of a merry-go-round and shooting gallery.

Residents were also able to visit a local ostrich farm, relocated to University Heights from Coronado. Perhaps alarmingly, people could even ride the ostriches, and feathers sold for hundreds of dollars per pound.

Sadly, the park site was eventually developed into housing after residents fell for the allure of Balboa Park.

READ MORE: Interested in learning more about Balboa Park? I have a detailed guide!

The big birds were fine, though. They got new digs in 1929, when they were transported to the San Diego Zoo. Apparently, demand for all things ostrich declined.

How to Get Around University Heights

University Heights is a very walkable neighborhood, with most of the action happening up and down Park Boulevard.

If you drove to University Heights, it’s best to just find free street parking on any of the side streets that connect to Park Boulevard or along Adams Avenue as you approach University Heights.

Note: The closest paid lot is on El Cajon Boulevard and Alabama Street, but I’ve never had to do anything other than park on the street when visiting University Heights.

If you want to get around on public transportation, MTS Bus 11, which originates at the SDSU Transit Center, and MTS Bus 6, which originates at 30th Street and University Avenue San Diego, are close to most of the action in the neighborhood.

Route maps and schedules are available from the Metropolitan Transit System.

University Heights is also quite bike-friendly, with many locals pedaling themselves from Point A to Point B. There are always the scooters, too.

They’re everywhere in and around the neighborhood.

Things to Do in University Heights

Most of the best things to do in University Heights are connected to supporting local commerce and connecting with the local vibes here. It was one of my favorite neighborhoods in the city to stroll and discover new coffee shops, places to eat, and soak in the sun.

Relax at Trolley Barn Park.

Old Trolley Barn Park is a University Heights staple. You’ll find folks here doing some yoga or whatever it is they do with kettlebells, hanging out with their kids on the playground, reading some heavy nonfiction, or throwing a frisbee around with their pooch.

It’s a gathering place, but also a fantastic outdoor event space.

Movies and concerts in the park are frequent, particularly in the summer months, solidifying the park’s importance to University Heights.

Embrace the cafe scene.

Every great neighborhood has its share of great, local coffee shops. Starbucks be gone — I still love you, don’t take it personally — because University Heights is brewing up some good times over here.

Did you see what I did there?

Choose from the Meraki Cafe, where you can enjoy an açaí bowl with your lavender latte, or Lestat’s, which is only sinister by name, something you’ll learn as you sip on your peppermint espresso.

Shop local.

As with all of the local boutiques in neighborhoods like Ocean Beach, Point Loma, and North Park, University Heights is a great place to snag unique goods and support small businesses in the process.

Start with Eden, an interiorscape boutique that will up your game in the world of interior plants.

You’ll see what I mean when you step inside.

Follow that up with vintage bargain hunting at La Loupe Vintage, just east of the 805.

Fun fact: Both shops have served me well in the Halloween costume department, especially when I’m trying to go for classic 80s and 90s television stars.

If you’re going for a truly unique experience, hit up the Cave of Wonders, a jewelry and minerals shop run by an eccentric gemologist.

That’s their description, not mine.

Find the neighborhood’s hidden history.

While you won’t come upon the old ostrich farm, you can find remnants of it in the neighborhood.

Look for images of the land bird throughout the neighborhood on San Diego neighborhood signs throughout University Heights.

Start with the cobblestone marker where Adams Avenue meets Park Boulevard, and banners near the University Heights sign, welcoming folks to the neighborhood. Finding hidden ostriches can become quite the fun game after a few cold ones.

You can also see evidence of the old Mission Cliff Gardens, with the boundary of rounded stones still there. Follow along the wall for a plaque commemorating the site.

Catch a show at the Diversionary Theatre.

University Heights is home to the very special Diversionary Theatre, a small performing arts space with a focus on supporting San Diego’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities.

Founded in 1986, the theater has put on shows that not only display the city’s diverse talent but showcase themes important to this underrepresented community.

They do important work, making this a key stop on any University Heights itinerary. It’s easy to catch dinner and drinks before or after, too, as you’ll soon find out.

sIndulge in happy hour at a University Heights bar.

Most of my San Diego itineraries include a stop (or two) at a local bar or brewery at some point. Here are my picks for where to drink in the San Diego neighborhood of University Heights:

• Cheers: It’s where everybody knows your name. Things can get a little rowdy on weekends, but it’s a great place to pop in and have a cold one with a friend who recently got dumped on, say, a Sunday afternoon.
• Clos Wine Shop: Whether you need an urban wine tasting or picking up a bottle, the Clos Wine Shop has a great selection. It’s also the place if you’re looking for organic, biodynamic wines and local wine options.
• Gilly’s Bar: Gilly’s Bar screams dive bar. They host karaoke and themed trivia nights, with pool tables and darts available for those who like their drinks with a side of hustling. You’ll be one with the neighborhood at this place, in the best way.
• Kairoa Brewing Company: I knew I would like this place when I learned that it was affiliated with the other New Zealand restaurants in town. This one has the added bonus of a huge rooftop deck.
• Park and Rec: Who doesn’t love a little cornhole when they’re sipping on a hipster cocktail? I’m talking about bags here, or bean bag toss if you still don’t know what I’m talking about.

Best University Heights Restaurants

The food options in University Heights are diverse and delicious. I’ve returned to many of these again and again, in part thanks to proximity, but also they’re awesome.

Bahn Thai

I waffle between this place and North Park’s SukhoThai Extraordinaire when I’m asked to identify my favorite Thai spots in San Diego.

You really can’t go wrong with either, particularly if you’re looking for the traditional Thai that Bahn Thai is known for.

The ingredients are fresh, the peppers are spicy, and the curry is poppin’.

If you find yourself in Hillcrest, there’s an additional location there, too.

Big Front Door

Big Front Door, or BFD if you’re in the know, is one of our favorite sandwich places not only in the neighborhood but in all of San Diego.

Their service can be frustratingly slow, but I say that with as much love as possible. Once you bite into that B3, all will be forgiven. The three b’s are blackened chicken, Brussels sprouts, and Brie, by the way. Yes, it’s as winning a combination as any when it comes to sammies.

El Zarape Restaurant

I feel like I say this on all of these lists, but if I don’t include at least one Mexican restaurant here, what am I even doing?

This classic Mexican restaurant is basically open all day and night long, meaning you can have yourself those breakfast huevos but also have yourself that enchilada platter, just later. It’s Mexican comfort food to the max here.

Fun fact: There are several other El Zarape restaurants in and around University Heights, including a fast-casual burrito joint in North Park. I have stopped trying to figure out the affiliations here, as they’re all a little different from one another.

Grains

I’ve got to give my vegans some love here with a shoutout to this very flavorful cafe and one of the best restaurants in University Heights.

Always seeking that heat, Brian and I had one of the spiciest meals of our lives here, ignoring the asterisks there that denote spicy dishes. In any case, the black pepper edamame, buffalo cauliflower, and pulled jackfruit sandwich are delicious but SPICY.

The popcorn cauliflower is much milder but still fantastic.

Madison

Madison is a fantastic place for brunch. You will NOT regret sampling their version of a breakfast sammie, The G.O.A.T.

This place is more than brunch, though, with a menu full of unique share plates and sustainable ingredients that fit with its interior, all cedar and modern accents that are a whole scene.

If you’re feeling indulgent, they have a fantastic cocktail menu, as well, with twists on old classics like the rye whiskey-based View from Above.

Just have a sip. It’ll go great with the Brie.

Reservations aren’t necessary, but recommended and available online.

Muzita Abyssinian Bistro

The food at this place is awesome. It’s Ethiopian, so expect to share with whoever you’re with as you clamor for those last bits of stewed green cabbage, braised beef, and Eritrean-style chickpeas with hunks of injera. You’ll feel like a hungry, hungry animal, but it’s one of my favorite experiences in San Diego.

Service at Muzita here can be hit or miss, but I always forgive them. The food is that good. Reservations are available online.

Plumeria Vegetarian Restaurant

I realize I mentioned two of my favorite Thai restaurants in describing Bahn Thai, but that doesn’t mean I’m not giving Plumeria any kudos. In fact, this is one of my favorite vegetarian restaurants in the city.

Seriously, you won’t miss the meat here. I know that because Brian requested Plumeria often.

Try the tangerine plate with crispy tofu if you’re skeptical or their spicy noodle with your choice of protein for some heat. This place is regularly busy which I love to see, but that means you may need to wait. Reservations are available by calling  (619) 269-9989.

Pop Pie Co.

I can be a real Scrooge when it comes to gimmicks, and this place seemed like one. These are personal pot pies, ready as ever for Instagram and billed as artisanal, whatever that means these days.

Once you bite into one, whether you’re going savory with a steak and ale or sweet with a classic pumpkin pie, you’ll forget that maybe I think these were overpriced, already making plans to bring your pals for a second round.

Yes, the pies at Pop Pie Co. are delicious.

READ MORE: Love pie? Julian is one of my favorite day trips from San Diego and home to the best apple pie.

SOICHI Sushi

Omakase? Oh, my.

If you’re new to San Diego sushi experiences, omakase is exactly this: an experience curated by owner and chef Soichi Kadoya to take you through flavor bomb after flavor bomb.

Choose from chef’s tastings that are more inclusive of this spot’s appetizer menu or a sampler focused on nigiri for the best experience.

SOICHI serves up a la carte items, as well, if you’re not looking to blow the budget just yet. I mean, you will after you try the food, but to each his/her own. Oh, there’s a great sake menu here, too.

Make reservations online before you go.

Stella Jean’s Ice Cream

This ice cream shop is from the folks who brought you the Pop Pie Co., so you better believe this place is camera-ready, retro, and reminiscent of days long gone.

Luckily, the ice cream is also delicious, available in scoops or pints.

Flavors change based on the season and what the ice cream artisans are feeling at the moment, but if mango sticky rice is on the menu, do yourself a favor.

University Heights Events

You may want to plan your visit to University Heights around some of their regular events, or you may want to avoid them if you don’t like crowds or want to make parking easier. Check out some regular University Park events below:

• North Park Thursday Market: University Heights doesn’t have a dedicated market, but North Park is its friendly neighbor. It’s a great outdoor market held every Thursday from 3-7:30pm. Expect 90 tents of local goodies.
• Party on Park: This annual three-hour event put on by the University Heights Community Association features live music, a restaurant walk, and discounts on merchandise at local vendors.
• Summer Movies in the Park: This event series is hosted by various local organizations in Trolley Barn Park. Movie options are never controversial, so you can bet you can bring the whole family to these summertime shows.
• University Heights Arts Open/Taste of University Heights: Enjoy a free, self-guided tour of the neighborhood’s art from the University Heights Art Association and the University Heights Community Development Corporation.
• University Heights Summer in the Park: This is a summer concert series held in Trolley Barn Park. Shows are free, and visitors can bring a picnic dinner to munch on while they listen to those sweet tunes.

Is University Heights safe?

University Heights is a safe San Diego neighborhood. As someone who did all kinds of night walking with the dog, I can say I felt no weird feelings about walking those mean streets at night.

That said, commonsense precautions apply. Don’t flash your valuables, especially on the seat of your car.

Where to Stay in University Heights

If you’re thinking about moving here, the neighborhood is a great place to live. It’s pedestrian-friendly, vibrant, and safe. Real estate in the neighborhood are predictably pricey, but that’s what you get when you’re trying to move to America’s finest city.

Our San Diego home was next door to to University Heights, so we didn’t need overnight accommodations there. That doesn’t mean I lack tips for you.

For those just visiting, University Heights doesn’t have traditional hotels and motels for you to book. That’s usual for any of the surrounding neighborhoods of North Park, South Park, and even Mission Hills.

r

What kind of neighborhood is University Heights?

University Heights is a very local, friendly neighborhood with a strong sense of identity, diverse food scene, and easy access to some of San Diego’s best green spaces. It remains one of my favorite San Diego neighborhoods for hanging out, whether that’s in its coffee shops, the local pubs, or some of my favorite eateries.

I wasn’t kidding about that Thai food, people.

The neighborhood’s proximity to popular destinations like downtown San Diego and Balboa Park make it an easy add-on to tourist itineraries. Don’t discount this one on your visits to San Diego.

Planning more San Diego travel? Check out these guides:

• A Local Guide to San Diego Waterfalls
• Why You Need to Do Some Goat Yoga
• Your Ultimate San Diego Bucket List
• Ready for Scary? Visit the Whaley House
• San Diego Has Polish Food! Here’s My Guide

Learn more about the city’s best neighborhoods:

• Love Underrated? Don’t Miss Golden Hill
• What You Should Do in La Jolla, California
• Top Things to Do in Little Italy, San Diego
• A Guide to the Best of Carlsbad, California
• South Park Is Adorable. Learn Why!

Want to see more?