Best of East County Attractions

Photo, right, Sycuan pow-wow dancer

East County News Service

March 20, 2025 (San Diego) - San Diego’s inland region is home to 19 Native American tribes and 18 reservations—more than any other county in America. Local tribes trace their history here back more than 12,000 years.

Many of our local tribes welcome visitors to enjoy facilities on tribal lands, which are each sovereign nations. Attractions include casinos, hotels, golf courses, spas, concerts and other live entertainment, restaurants, an outlet shopping mall, restaurants, buffets and bars, a speedway, a paintball range, a museum, Native American pow-wows, a brewery, a vineyard, a dispensary, hiking trails, campgrounds, a water park, bike park, and a zip line.

All local tribal lands are in San Diego County’s inland areas, including northeast, southeast, and central east locations. View map here, or scroll to the bottom of this article.

Reservations that currently offer facilities or activities for visitors:

Barona Indian Reservation: Casino resort, hotel, golf, day spa, restaurants, bars, lake, and speedway

The Barona Band of Mission Indians operates the Barona Resort & Casino on its reservation off Wildcat Canyon Road in Lakeside, accessible from State Route 67, approximately 28 miles from downtown San Diego. The resort includes a 400-room hotel, award-winning golf course, day spa,  and beautiful landscaped grounds including a lake.  There are five restaurants ranging from the Barona Oaks Steakhouse to restaurants offering Italian, Asian, and California cuisine, plus a food court. You can also watch auto racing at the nearby Barona Speedway in season. Barona also hosts an annual powwow at the sports fields just north of the casino.

Campo Indian Reservation:  Casino, restaurants, and travel center

The Campo Indian Reservation is home to the Campo band of the Kumeyaay Nation . They operate the Golden Acorn Casino and Travel Center south of Interstate 8 in Campo, 60 miles east of San Diego. The casino also has live entertainment. The casino restaurants include a grill with prime rib specials and other entrees, a deli, ice cream shop and bakery, bar, and more. The travel center has snacks, gas and amenities to service travelers.

Jamul Indian Village:  Casino resort, hotel, spa, restaurants, live entertainment

The Jamul Indian Village, a tribe of the Kumeyaay Nation, operates the Jamul Casino and Resort. It’s located 23 miles southeast of San Diego alone State Route 94.Campo Road.  The tribe has expanded its original casino to include a 16-story hotel opening in May 2025, which will also include a day spa and other amenities. The property has several restaurants ranging from a steakhouse with mountain views to the Tony Gwynn sports bar, as well as live entertainment and an events venue.

La Jolla Indian Reservation: Adventure park, camping, bike park, water park, zipline

Home to the La Jolla Band of Luiseño Indians, the La Jolla Reservation spans 8,541 acres along the southern slopes of Mount Palomar and descends through forests to the San Luis Rey River. The reservation is located off State Highway 76, 25 miles east of Escondido and 60 miles northeast of San Diego. The tribe operates an adventure park which includes a campground,  bike park, water park zipline through the forest.

Los Coyotes Reservation: hiking to Hot Springs Mountain and primitive tent camping

The Los Coyotes Reservation operated by the Los Coyotes Band of Cahuillo and Cupeño Indians is located 70 miles northeast of San Diego and encompasses Hot Springs Mountain, the tallest peak in San Diego County at 6,533 feet in elevation. It borders Cleveland National Forest and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. The tribe has a campground with primitive tent sites; visitors can hike 10 miles to the mountaintop. You can purchase a hiking permit and make campground reservations on their website.

Pala Reservation: Casino resort, hotel, RV park, indoor/outdoor live entertainment, pool with waterfalls and firepit, cultural center

The Pala Band of Mission Indians reservation is located 54 miles northeast of San Diego, accessible via State Route 76 off I-15. The  Pala Casino Resort offers live indoor and outdoor entertainment at its events center and Starlight Theater, a hotel, RV park, and more. The tribe also has a Cupa Cultural Center with exhibits and cultural events. The resort features indoor and outdoor concerts, a hotel, pool with waterfalls and firepits, RV resort, and more.

Pauma Reservation: Casino, restaurants, live entertainment, vineyard, farms, trails

The Pauma Band of Luiseño Indians operates Casino Pauma in the Pauma Valley, 60 miles northeast of San Diego via I-15 and State Route 75.  The casino has a café, Mexican grill, deli and pizzeria as well as live entertainment in the Parrot Lounge. The Pauma Tribe also operates Pauma Tribal Farms with sustainably grown produce, olives and vineyard, as well as walking trails.

Rincon Reservation:  Casino, hotel, pool with swim-up bar, spa, golf, live entertainment, brewery

The Rincon Band of the Luiseño Nation is located about 47 miles northeast of San Diego near Valley Center, east of Escondido. The tribe owns Harrah’s Resort Southern California, located in the newly named “Funner” community. The resort includes a hotel, pool with swim-up bar, wellness spa, golf, live entertainment and activities. You can also visit the Rincon Road Reservation Brewery to taste award-winning beers from the only tribal-owned brewery in Southern California.

San Pasqual Reservation: Casino, hotel, restaurants, buffet, live entertainment, golf club

The San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians operates the Valley View Casino and Hotel, which also has restaurants, an all-you-can-eat buffet, plus live entertainment at the Main Stage Bar. The Native Oaks Golf Club is also run by the tribe, offering golf, junior golf camps, and the Shawii Kitchen restaurant.

Santa Ysabel Reservation: Marijuana dispensary

The Iipay Nation of Santa Ysabel is located 52 miles northeast of San Diego, accessible via State Route 78 near Julian. The tribe operates the Mountain Source marijuana dispensary, which invites the public to “get it where it’s grown.”

Sycuan Reservation:  Casino resort, hotel, pool/river, cabanas, day spa, restaurants, golf, concerts and live entertainment

The Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation’s reservation is located about 20 miles east of San Diego in unincorporated  El Cajon, accessible off I-8 and Dehesa Rd.  The tribes own the Sycuan Casino Resort, which includes a high-rise hotel with lazy river flowing through the grounds, pool and cabanas, a spa, numerous restaurants and bars.  The casino has live entertainment at the Live Up-Close Theatre and the Heritage Events Center. Visitors can also golf at the nearby Singing Hills Golf Course at Sycuan, also home to the Red Tail Bar and Grill. Sycuan hosts a powwow each year on powwow grounds adjacent to the casino and hotel.

Viejas Reservation: Casino resort, hotel, golf, concerts and live entertainment, restaurants, outlet shopping center, bowling, arcade, seasonal skating

The Viejas Band of the Kumeyaay Nation  has a reservation in the Alpine area, 33 miles east of San Diego off Interstate. The tribe operates the Viejas Casino Resort including two hotels, golf, numerous dining options including the award-winning Grove Steakhouse, as well as concerts and other live entertainment.  The Viejas Outlets Center across the street from the casino and hotels has numerous shopping opportunities, a bowling alley, arcade, and seasonal activities such as the largest outdoor ice skating rink in southern California, roller skating in summer, water shows, and more.

Other local tribes

San Diego’s other reservations don’t currently offer facilities or amenities for visitors, due largely to their remote locations.  These include these inhabited reservations:  Cuyapaipe (Ewiiaapaayp), Inaja and Cosmit, La Posta, Manzanita, and Mesa Grande, as well as the uninhabited Capitan Grande Reservation, where tribal members were relocated due to construction of a dam and reservoir in the 1930s. Two additional tribal bands here have no federally recognized lands: the San Luis Rey Band of Luiseño Indians and the Mount Laguna Band of Luiseño Indians.

Learn more about local Native American tribes

Read more about the Indian tribes of San Diego County. The Indian tribes of San Diego County at Kumeyaay.com and Discover San Diego.

Calendar of Native American powwows

This website lists all Native American powwows in California, include those in San Diego County each year.

Map of local Native American reservations

By Miriam Raftery

March 21, 2025 (San Diego) - San Diego has a long and diverse heritage. Our inland region reflects the historical influence of Native Americans, Mexicans, Spanish, pioneers, cowboys, gold miners, railroads, the military, as well as refugees and immigrants from countries around the world. Below you’ll find a historical overview of our region, followed by a directory of museums and other historical sites in San Diego’s eastern areas.   

Historical Overview

Native Americans have inhabited our region for over 12,000 years from the desert to the sea; 19 tribes still reside in our inland region. Spanish explorers first arrived here in 1542, calling the area San Miguel and later renaming it San Diego in 1602.  The first mission in California was established here in 1769 by Father Junipero Serra.

Mexico ousted the Spanish in the Mexican War of Independence in 1821 and issued large land grants to establish rancheros across  much of what is now San Diego’s East County. The U.S. acquired California in 1848 after the Mexican-American War. California became a state in 1850, after the discovery of gold.

In the latter half of the 19^th century, San Diego’s East County attracted westward-bound pioneers and settlers, as well as gold seekers bound for Julian, a  mountain town now designated a national history landmark.  Stagecoach and a railway line were soon established.  Our region’s wild west heritage includes the Campo Gunfight in 1875, which killed more people than the infamous O.K. Corral shootout.

Camp Lockett in Campo served as a military base and the last station of the famed Buffalo Soldiers, the all-black Civil cavalry brigade originally established during the Civil War.

During prohibition, bootleg liquor was smuggled across the border and hidden in caves in remote East County locations. Most vineyards were ploughed under, giving rise to a housing development boom in areas such as El Cajon. During World War II, Italian prisoners of war were kept at Camp Lockett. San Diego soon became a thriving military town with the rise of several military bases, and many retired military members returned to establish permanent residency here.

Starting in the 1970s, with the end of the Vietnam War, East County became a magnet for refugees from around the world, starting with Asian immigrants at the end of the Vietnam War in the 1970s.  Later waves of refugees included Iraqis, Afghans, Syrians, Sudanese,  Somalis, and many more, each bringing cultural and culinary traditions to enrich our region. 

Our region also suffered tragedies including the flood of 1916 that washed out a dam, causing major destruction, Hurricane Kathleen  which derailed a train in East County in 1975, the 2003 Cedar Fire, which at the time was the worst wildfire in California history, as well as the 2007 firestorms, which triggered the largest evacuation in U.S. history.

Museum and historical sites

Below is our guide to museums and heritage sites across East County and San Diego’s inland region, where you can learn more about our region’s colorful history. Click each link to learn more and to check on days and hours of operation, which may vary seasonally.

Alpine Historical Society’s John DeWitt Museum (Alpine)

The museum grounds include the historic Nichols House owned by an early woman doctor, the Beaty House which includes exhibits on beekeeping and agriculture, the Carriage House including a 1906 buggy, and outdoor exhibits including antique farm machinery and a vintage fire truck, plus a native plants and butterfly garden.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Visitors Center (Anza-Borrego)

The largest state park in California features a visitor center with displays including the history of Native American tribes and the area’s natural history. Visitors can also view a film and get information about hiking trails and other park features.

Bancroft Ranch House Museum (Spring Valley)

Built in 1863, .the Bancroft Ranch House is the oldest adobe house in East County and is both a state and national historic landmark. Judge Augustus S. Ensworth built the home which includes timbers from a salvaged ship on land that includes the springs for which Spring Valley was named. The property changed hands several times and was eventually bought by the Spring Valley Chamber of Commerce, which after restorations opened the museum in 1963.

Barona Cultural Center and Museum (Barona reservation, Lakeside)

As San Diego County’s first museum on an Indian reservation dedicated to the preserving and presenting local Kumeyaay-Diegueño Native culture, the Barona Museum offers a unique educational journey for visitors of all ages.  The Museum’s collection represents thousands of years of history including some objects dating as far back as 10,000 years, demonstrating the artistry and skill of the western hemisphere’s first inhabitants.

Camp Lockett Museum (Campo)

Camp Lockett was home to the 10th, 11th, and 28th Cavalries through World War II. The famed Buffalo Soldiers guarded the southern border of the United States and prisoners of war from Italy. The Camp Lockett  Museum exhibits authentic uniforms and equipment utilized by the soldiers garrisoned in Campo, including the Buffalo Soldiers, which began as an all-black Civil War Cavalry brigade.

Campo Old Stone Museum (Campo)

Originally built in 1885, the Campo Stone Store Museum takes you back to an adventurous, pioneering time when this area 50 miles east of San Diego was a hotspot of commerce, travel and ranching. An official California Historic Landmark, the stone building was fortified after an attack by border bandits in 1875 prompted the Campo gunfight. People from both sides of the border relied on the store, now a museum, which also served as a bank, post office and community social center. The two-story museum includes displays featuring pioneer, Native American and military history including the Buffalo Soldiers and artifacts from an Italian prisoner of war camp from World War II.

Desert View Tower and Boulder Park (Jacumba)

The Desert View Tower was built in 1923 as a roadside stop along the new interstate. Ten years later, Boulder Park was added, featuring fanciful stone carvings of animals and reptiles tucked inside caves. Stepping into the Desert View Tower and the gift shop at its base is like stepping back in time, a place filled with quirky relics, historical photos, hand-crafted items, books on our region’s history, and more. Telescopes offer views of the desert floor below the windswept ridge where the tower is located.

Eagle Mining Co. (Julian) A hard-rock gold mine in the 1870s, the Eagle Mine today offers guided tours in a mine train down into the old mine, displays of gold-mining equipment, and opportunities for visitors to try their hand at panning for gold. There’s also a gift shop on site. The mine is located in in the historic gold rush town of Julian.

El Cajon Historical Society’s Knox House Museum (El Cajon)

Originally a hotel and residence built in 1876, Knox House served as a stopover for miners and teamsters heading to Julian during the gold rush here. The parlor area was once the community’s first post office. Historical items from 1895 through 1912 are on display in the Knox House Museum. Learn more about Knox House and El Cajon history at the El Cajon Historical Society's website.

Escondido History Center Museum Complex (Escondido)

The Escondido History Center has preserved historic buildings along its Heritage Walk including the Victorian Era Hoffman house, a blacksmith shop, the Santa Fe railway depot, and a barn with vintage vehicles and farm equipment.

Guy B. Woodward Museum (Ramona)

This museum is actually a cluster of historic buildings including an 1886 adobe home, a jail, a one-room schoolhouse, a wine cellar gallery, a millinery shop with historic clothing, a honey house with displays on the region’s beekeeping history, a blacksmith shop, bunkhouse and tack room. You can also see historic wagons, buggies, farm equipment, a fire truck, and mining gear.

Heritage of the Americas Museum (Cuyamaca College, El Cajon)

This museum, located on the Cuyamaca College campus, is a cultural and educational center featuring prehistoric and historic art and culture of the Americas and natural history of the world. The natural history wing includes meteorites, gems, minerals and fossils from around the world. The archaeology wing displays pre-Columbian artifacts from throughout the Americans. The anthropology wing has post-European settlement artifacts from the last two centuries. The art wing features a collection of Western art as well as an exceptional collection of dynastic Chinese jade pieces.

Ilan-Lael/James Hubbell  House and Gallery (Santa Ysabel) The Ilan-Lael house was the home of world-famous architect and artist James Hubbell and his wife, Anne. Built by hand, each stunning building incorporates intricate details including mosaic murals, soaring arches, stained glass windows and a balance of natural materials from seashells to gemstones. The site is also an art education and nature center. Public docent-led tours are offered on select dates; private tours are also available.

Inaja Memorial (Cleveland National Forest)

Along State Route 78 just east of Santa Ysabel  stands the Inaja Memorial, a plaque which memorializes the 11 firefighters who lost their lives battling the 60,000-acreInaja Fire in 1956. At an elevation of 3,440 feet in Cleveland National Forest, the site also has picnic grounds, connecting trails and interactive site-seeing activities. For more information on the Inaja and connecting trails, please see our Inaja Trail Recreation page. For a more detailed look at this trail, read r Spotlight: Inaja Trail

La Mesa Depot Museum (La Mesa)

The La Mesa Depot Museum is La Mesas oldest building in its original form and is the sole surviving San Diego and Cuyamaca Railway Station in existence. Today the Pacific Southwest Railway Museum owns and maintains the building on grounds owned by the City of La Mesa.  Admission is free. Visitors can inspect the steam locomotive and string of freight cars on the nearby track and pass through the ticket/waiting area to view the telegrapher’s station and a small exhibit area in the baggage room. For La Mesa Depot Hours, visit the Museum Hours page. 

Poway Heritage Museum (Poway)

This museum is one of two buildings run by the Poway Historical Society. Located in Old Poway Park, the museum displays artifacts, memorabilia, exhibits, and historical records cataloging Poway’s rich history throughout the years. You can also visit the nearby 1883 Nelson House, built by a Norwegian immigrant.

Julian Historical Society (Julian)

The Julian Historical Society has acquired several historic sites now open as museums, including the Washington Mine,  the Santa Ysabel School at Witch Creek (moved to Julian near the Pioneer Museum), and the Julian Stage Line Museum, a replica of the original, displaying an antique stage coach and a vintage bus.

Julian Pioneer Museum (Julian)

This is a must-see for anyone visiting Julian. The museum documents the history of Julian’s inhabitants, including early Native Americans and those drawn here for the Gold Rush. Learn the stories of the town’s founders, civil war veterans Drury Bailey and Mike Julian, the discovery of gold, and much more.  

Julian Stage Line Museum (Julian)

A replica of the original building, the museum houses vehicles that carried passengers and mail between Foster City near Lakeside and Julian including an antique stagecoach and vintage Cadillac bus.

La Mesa History Center/McKinney House Museum and Archives (La Mesa)

The McKinney House Museum was built by Rev. Henry A. McKinney his family in 1908. The McKinney’s were active in the cultural, educational, commercial and fraternal life of early La Mesa. The house is furnished in the 1908 – 1920 period. The McKinney House Museum is run by the La Mesa Historical Society and is open most Saturdays to the public.  The La Mesa Historical Society also offers an annual historic homes tour each fall.

Lakeside Historical Society  and Lakeside Museum (Lakeside)

The Lakeside Historical Society leads walking tours along historic sites in downtown Lakeside and also operates the Lakeside Museum, an archives, and gift shop. Learn about Lakeside’s colorful history, from its first inhabitants, the Kumeyaay Indians, through Spanish land grants, stage coach lines, the coming of the railroad, a flood that wiped out railway tracks, the flume that brough water from the mountain areas, and the rodeo that still draws audiences today.

Lemon Grove Historical Society and museums (Lemon Grove)

The Lemon Grove Historical offers glimpses into the past at two historic sites. The  H. Lee House Cultural Center, a Tudor-style home built in 1928, is also the setting for English High Tea Tours held by the Historical Society. The Parsonage Museum, a redwood structure, was built in 1897 and originally served as the community’s first church The museum depicts the history of Lemon Grove. The Society received a 2001 Governor’s Historic Preservation Award for this restoration project.

Mission San Diego de Alcala (San Diego)

California’s first mission was founded in 1769 by Junípero Serra, a Franciscan priest later named a saint. The Mission was relocated to its present site in 1774 to be closer to Kumeyaay Native American villages, a reliable source of water, and to farmlands. In 1821, Mexico gained independence from Spain and control of the Mission. After the U.S. - Mexican War, the U.S. Cavalry occupied the mission. In 1862, the Mission lands were restored to the Church by President Abraham Lincoln. The Mission church was named  a minor  basilica by Pope Paul VI for the nation’s bicentennial in 1976. Today, it serves as an active parish for the Catholic community and as a cultural center for people of all faiths. Guests can tour the mission and stop by the visitors’ center.

.Mission San Antonio de Pala Asistencia (Pala)

The San Antonio de Pala Asistencia, or the ‘Pala Mission,’ was founded in 1816 as an asistencia (‘sub-mission’) to Mission San Luis Rey de Francia, some twenty miles inland upstream on the San Luis Rey River. Today it is located in the Pala Indian Reservation located in northern San Diego County, with official name is now Mission San Antonio de Pala.  It is the only historic mission facility still serving a Mission Indian tribe. A museum and gift shop are open twice a month. The Mission also includes the chapel, bell tower, an old cemetery and more.

Mission Santa Ysabel (Santa Ysabel) – The Santa Ysabel Indian Mission held its bicentennial celebration in 2018. The original adobe St. John the Baptist chapel still stands, but recently the Catholic church has discontinued holding mass at the historic site due to declining participation.

Mission Trails Regional Park Visitor Center (San Diego) Mission Trails Regional Park encompasses more than 8,000 acres, making it one of the largest urban parks in the United States. The visitor center includes a museum featuring exhibits on the park’s natural history (geology, animals and plants) as well as the Native Americans who once lived here. There’s also a gift shop, plus you can enjoy beautiful views of Mission Gorge and get info on hikes to take, such as to the old Mission dam.

Motor Transport Museum (Campo)

The museum is home to over 200 motor transport vehicles, as well as an eclectic variety of industrial equipment from olive presses to quarry mining items. The Motor Transport Museum has also helped restore old vehicles including stage coaches and more. The museum is housed in the historic Campo Feldspar Mill.

Mountain Empire Historical Society (Campo)

The Mountain Empire Historical Society operates the Gaskill Brothers Stone Store Museum owned by the county of San Diego. In addition, the Society conducts tours of old cemeteries in East County, operates a book store, and hosts an annual Roundup event featuring everything from rodeo events to stage coach rides.

Old Poway Park and Railroad (Poway)

Visitors to Old Poway Park can ride the historic Poway Railroad,  View the current train schedule. On the Fourth of July, you might encounter a reenactment of a train robbery. Visitors can also tour the Heritage Museum to learn about Poway's unique history and explore the Nelson House to witness what life was like in early 20th century California. The museums are open limited hours on Saturdays. Find local and organic produce and artisan foods at our Saturday morning Farmers Market and discover unique handmade treasures made by local artists at the seasonal Boardwalk Craft Market.

Pacific Southwest Railway Museum (Campo)

The Pacific Southwest Railway Museum Association dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of historic railroads in the Pacific Southwest. At the Campo facility,  you can ride aboard a  vintage train through the backcountry with locomotives and cars from the early 20th century.  The Campo facility also offers seasonal themed-train rides at Halloween, Easter, and Christmastime. In addition, a museum displays an extensive collection of vintage trains and railroad memorabilia.

Palomar Observatory Museum (Palomar Mountain)

At the Palomar  Observatory’s Visitor Center's entrance, a banner of the nearby star- Orion Nebula invites visitors to explore the Universe as seen through the Palomar telescopes. Learn about the history of the universe; the Orion Nebula is a  star-forming region—not unlike that from which the Sun and the Solar System is thought to have originated. Inside at the museum, visitors learn about the history of the Observatory, legendary scientific discoveries made with Palomar's telescopes and instruments, and the latest developments in the world of astronomy. The center also contains a gift shop and the ticket counter for docent guided tours.

Rancho Bernardo  History Museum (Rancho Bernardo)

The Rancho Bernardo History Museum is operated by the Rancho Bernardo Historical Society on the grounds of the historic Bernardo Winery. Exhibits include a timeline of local events, the firestorms of 2007, indigenous culture, the Battle of San Pasqual and the Mexican American War, a timeline of local historic events and more.  Docents and a research library are also available.

Rancho Cuyamaca State Park Visitor Center and Museum (Cuyamaca)

The Cuyamaca Rancho State Park Interpretive Association center is located between Paso Picacho and Green Valley Campgrounds on Hwy 79. Follow signs that say Park Museum or walk there on the Cold Stream Trail. The Visitor Center houses the Park's Museum, which contains displays and exhibits about the Park's history and wildlife. The Visitor Center is open Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 a.m.to 4:00 p.m.

Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians Tribal Museum (Valley Center)

This museum closed during the pandemic, but some artifacts, information and a video can be found at the link above.

San Diego Air and Space Museum at Gillespie Field Annex (El Cajon)

The El Cajon site serves as an additional exhibit space for the San Diego Air and Space Museum's growing collection, as well as a restoration facility. Located at the northeastern corner of Gillespie Field, the museum is open to visitors, who can view various aircraft, including many examples of military jets, private sport aircraft and small racing planes. New additions at Gillespie are the S-3 Viking, the P2 Neptune, and Baron Hilton’s Staggerwing.  There is also a gift shop to purchase aerospace memorabilia.

San Diego Archaeological Center (Escondido)

San Diego Archaeological Center is a nonprofit museum where visitors can learn the story of how people have lived in San Diego County for the past 12,000 years. Founded in 1993, the Center was the first private nonprofit dedicated to the care, management, and use of archaeological collections. Visit the museum, which is located in the picturesque San Pasqual Valley in Escondido, a mile east of the San Diego Safari Park. The museum also includes activities for children.

San Diego State University Biodiversity Museum (SDSU)

The San Diego State University Biodiversity Museum serves as a repository for biological specimens and an educational center for research, teaching, and community outreach. The Museum's main attraction is the biological collections, comprising over 100,000 physical specimens of birds, fish, mammals, plants, algae, reptiles, amphibians, and terrestrial arthropods. These specimens are used as teaching tools and research vouchers

Old Edgemore Barn/Museum (Santee)

The Santee Historical Society explores Santee’s past by collecting, preserving and sharing Santee’s history. Its museum and headquarters are in a 1913 barn that is listed in the National Registry of Historic Places.

Barn is the only remaining structure from the Historic Edgemoor property. It has stood for nearly 100 years, and is a testament to early Santee, CA.  On April 17, 1985 a formal Nomination was sent to the National Park Service, to register the Edgemoor Farm Barn as a historic site. On May 16, 1986 the Barn was added to the National Registry of Historic Places.

 In the following years the Barn’s address was changed from 9064 Edgemoor Drive to its current address and of 9200 N. Magnolia Ave. Through the assistance of charitable donations, public assistance, and political persons, the Edgemoor Barn is currently an active museum and houses the office of the Santee Historical Society

Valley Center History Museum/Valley Center Historical Society (Valley Center)

Permanent exhibits include a tribute to a woman who was a co-discover during the gold rush, a taxidermy-mounted grizzly bear (our state symbol), Western oil paintings, a settler’s cabin, a recreation of a Native American village, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt’s desk and personal papers of former United Nations Ambassador Co. Irving Salomon, a giant quilt with local scenes, a pictorial presentation on foals of Seabiscuit, Seattle Slew and Secretariat — famous races who lived in Valley Center, plus Hollywood Comes to Town, featuring movies and TV shows filmed in Valley Center from “Mad, Mad World” to “Invaders from Mars.”

East County Magazine thanks the Conrad Prebys Foundation for its generous grant to fund our series of guides to East County's many attractions and activities, benefitting residents, visitors, and our local econonmy.

Source: San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Photo, left by Claire Sweeney: new Safari Adventure check-in area, courtesy of San Diego Zoo Safari Park

March 6, 2025 (San Pasqual) — The San Diego Zoo Safari Park announces the opening of Safari Excursions, a  check-in spot and gathering place for your safari. Designed with comfort and inspiration in mind, Safari Excursions serves as the hub for all safari departures. Guests can check in, meet their guides, and take in the stunning surroundings before their excursion begins.

The launch of Safari Excursions marks the completion of a project that has been years in the making. Located about 30 minutes north of the San Diego Zoo, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is the perfect place to make lasting memories while experiencing incredible wildlife up close. 

Photo, right by Claire Sweeney, courtesy of Diego Zoo Safari Park

Safari Excursions is a unique starting point for a safari adventure, inviting guests to share stories or simply soak in the excitement as a safari adventure draws closer. With thoughtful touches at every turn, the new Safari Excursions check in area has the story of the San Diego Zoo Safari Park woven into each detail and spotlights San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s conservation efforts across the globe. 

Safari highlights include:

A Behind-the-Scenes Safari allows guests to venture deep into the Safari Park and get a closer look at their favorite wildlife. During these small-group tours, guests venture to exclusive areas not accessible to the public, where a knowledgeable guide shares how we care for wildlife and carry out conservation work in San Diego and around the globe. 

Photo, right, by Miriam Raftery, ECM editor:  Wildlife Safari guests get up-close look at rhinoceros

On a Wildlife Safari, guests will travel in the back of a covered, open-air safari truck with an expert guide as they venture into one of our expansive savanna habitats to get an up-close view of a variety of birds and mammals. 

Roar & Snore Safari is an overnight camping experience that overlooks the East Africa savanna habitat, the Safari Park’s largest. Seasoned campers may enjoy a Classic or Vista tent, while those who prefer a more luxurious experience should check out our Premium tents. Campers enjoy walking tours, meals and up-close wildlife encounters. 

 Safari Excursions is now open to the public and inviting guests to embark on their unique safari experiences. Safari Excursions is designed with inclusivity and universal accessibility in mind, offering a fully ADA-accessible space and ensuring every guest can explore comfortably. With each visit to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and the San Diego Zoo, wildlife allies help support San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance in its commitment to saving species worldwide by uniting expertise in wildlife care and conservation science with a dedication to inspiring passion for nature.  

About San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, a nonprofit conservation leader, inspires passion for nature and collaboration for a healthier world. The Alliance supports innovative conservation science through global partnerships and groundbreaking efforts at the world-famous San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park, both leading zoological institutions and accredited botanical gardens. Through wildlife care expertise, cutting-edge science and continued collaboration, more than 44 endangered species have been reintroduced to native habitats. The Alliance reaches over 1 billion people annually through its two conservation parks and media channels in 170 countries, including San Diego Zoo Wildlife Explorers television, available in children’s hospitals across 14 countries. Wildlife Allies—members, donors and guests—make success possible. 

Many people and their dogs came together at Town Center Community Park East for the ninth annual Fido Fest in Santee. 

By G.A. McNeeley 

Photos by Scott Lagace and G.A. McNeeley

February 26, 2025 (Santee) - The city of Santee invited lots of people (and their dogs) for fun times at this year’s Fido Fest. People were also able to adopt their own furry friend from one of the many rescue groups present at the event hosted by the city of Santee on February 22 at Town Center Community Park East in Santee. 

Contests were held for the smallest dog, the biggest dog, the best costume, and the best trick. There were also demonstrations for the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department K-9 Unit and the Santee Fire Department Search & Rescue Dog, as well as arts and crafts. 

Agility courses were also present for dogs of all sizes to show off their skills and abilities. There were also off-leash areas, and over 50 vendors that were offering pet-friendly products, services, treats, and more. 

Donation drives were also accepting unopened dog food, bedding, blankets, toys, and other items that got donated to the rescues who participated in the event. 

The San Diego Humane Society was offering free microchipping, and they were also offering paid pet licensing services on-site (at varying costs). Pet health experts and veterinarians were also available to provide attendees with helpful tips and information. 

ECM spoke with a representative at the Amazing Strays Rescue Booth, who said that the organization is non-profit, foster-based, and volunteer-run. The group also had binders for the dogs (and cats) that were available for adoption. The binders included success stories and “medical cases,” which are dogs and cats who need extra care. Their organization is also known for rescuing homeless and at-risk pets, providing safe environments for them as well as trying to combat the spread of diseases in pets. 

Event organizers from the city of Santee told ECM said that this was their ninth year organizing the event. The event used to be in the summer, but it was too hot, so the event was moved to February. Organizers gave us an event schedule, an activity guide for other events in Santee, and a park map (all of which can be found online). They also told us that they help organize all of the big events in Santee. 

“I think this a great event, because I can bring my dogs, Ella and Russel, with me to the park. There’s a lot for them to see and sniff,” said, an attendee. “They got to feast on all of the different treats that vendors had available.” 

We also reached out to the San Diego Humane Society, via email, after speaking to a representative at their booth who gave us their contact information. We asked what sorts of programs they have that our readers should know about. 

“San Diego Humane Society offers multiple programs to prevent unnecessary pet surrender and to keep pets with their families through challenging times,” said Nina Thompson, Director of Public Relations, San Diego Humane Society. “Services focus on all things related to pet care, including assistance with behavior and training, pet food and supplies and veterinary care. We also offer additional resources for military members and community members experiencing domestic violence and housing insecurity.” 

Thompson also told that we can visit the following link to learn more about these services: 

sdhumane.org/supportservices

Rescue Groups that attended this year’s Fido Fest included 4 Patas, A Way Home for Dogs, Amazing Strays Rescue, Friends of Cats, Friends of Humane Services Tijuana, Frosted Faces Foundation, Heart of Gold’s Shelter, K9 Connection Pet Adoption, Leonberger Rescue Pals, Lionel’s Legacy Senior Dog Rescue, Mutt Luv, Open Arms Rescue, Passion for Pitties, Paws 4 Thoughts Animal Rescue, Rescue Fenix, Ruger’s Rescues, The DeTommaso Dogs, and Woofs and Wags. 

For more information on the adoption groups, other events in Santee and additional information: 

https://www.cityofsanteeca.gov/calendar/events/fido-fest/45710

 SWEETS AND TREATS (View all: click here)

• Bakeries (cakes,pies, cookies and breads)
• Candy shops
• Donuts
• Ice cream
• Puddings
• Yogurt, frozen

San Diego is home to many immigrants from around the world. As a result, our inland region alone has restaurants specializing in cuisine from over 40 nations on six continents. You can take a culinary tour around the world—without leaving East County!

Below is our directory of internationally-themed restaurants.

AFGHAN

Kabul Kabob House (El Cajon)

Kunduz Kabob and Pizza (Santee)

AFRICAN

African Spices (Rolando) African and Somali

Faridas Somali/East African Cuisine (Euclid)

Fatuma Restaurant (Euclid) African, Somali,  Mediterranean

Red Sea Ethiopian Restaurant (City Heights)

Taste of Africa Cuisine (SDSU College area)

Taste of Egypt Café (Grantville)

AMERICAN

For our separate guide to local restaurants specializing in American cuisine, click here.

ASIAN

House of Fortune (Sycuan Casino Resort in El Cajon)

Ho Wan  Noodle Shop (Barona Resort & Casino, Lakeside) - Asian

Loft 94  (Jamul Casino) – Asian fusion cuisine

Pink Buddha (Sycuan Casino & Resort)

Ginger Noodle Bar (Viejas at Alpine)

Wei Wei Asian Express  (La Mesa and other locations)

AUSTRALIAN

Outback Steakhouse (El Cajon)

BRAZIILIAN

Rodizio’s Brazilian Steakhouse (El Cajon)

BRITISH - ENGLISH

Aubrey Rose Tea Room (La Mesa) – traditional English-style tea service with finger sandwiches, soups, savories, scones and more

Julian Tea and Cottage Arts (Julian) – traditional English-style tea service with finger sandwiches, scones, and more, plus seasonal specialties

Phileas Fogg’s (Sabre Springs) – British pub/English

BURMESE

Burma Place (Rancho Bernardo)

CAMBODIAN

Trieu Chao (City Heights)

CHINESE

China Fun (Rancho Bernardo)

Emerald Chinese Cuisine  (Jamul Casino)

Hi Dumplings (Grantville/Mission Gorge)

Panda Machi  (Alpine)

Panda Express  (La Mesa) 

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Jibaritos de la Isla (Bonita)—Dominican Republic and Puerto Rican

EGYPTIAN

Taste of Egypt Café (Grantville)

ETHIOPIAN

Red Sea Ethiopian Restaurant (City Heights)

EUROPEAN

Lemon Grove Bistro and Beer Garden (Lemon Grove)

Tour de Tapas (La Mesa)

FILIPINO

Chamorro Grill (Grantville/Mission Gorge) – island barbecue with dishes from the Philippines as well as Hawaii and Guam

Kujo Eats (Rolando)

FRENCH

Bleu Boheme  (Kensington) – French cuisine

Café Amor (Spring Valley) Menu – crepes and more

A Delight of France (Escondido) -French bakery and bistro

French Oven Bakery and Café (Scripps Ranch) -French bakery and cafe

Pine House Café and Tavern (Mount Laguna) –French, fondue and American

Tour de Tapas (La Mesa) – Tapas, small plates and desserts from Spain, France and Italy

GERMAN

Marisco’s German Seafood (City Heights) – German seafood

GREEK

Grecian Café (Spring Valley)

Greek Chicken (El Cajon and Lakeside) 

Greek Gyros (Grossmont Center, La Mesa)

Yanni’s Bar and Grill (Scripps Ranch)

GUATEMALAN

Chiroy’s Café (Casa de Oro/Spring Valley) – Guatemalan, Mexican and American

INDIAN

Aromas of India (La Mesa)

Darbar Fine Indian Cuisine (Rancho Bernardo)

Naturally Desi (Rancho Bernardo)

Tandoori Vibes (SDSU College area)

INTERNATIONAL

Chandelier Lounge (Jamul) – international healthy food

Epicurious Social Club (Borrego Springs) – globally inspired comfort foods

IRAQI

Ali Baba (El Cajon)

Nahrain Fish and Chicken (El Cajon) –traditional grilled and masgoof Iraqi-style fish and chicken

Ney Restaurant (La Mesa) –Iraqi and Middle Eastern

Sahara Taste of the Middle East (Rancho San Diego) – Middle Eastern and Iraqi

Zad, Mediterranean (Spring Valley)

IRISH

Hooleys Irish Pub  (La Mesa and Rancho San Diego) 

ITALIAN

Antica Trattoria  (La Mesa)

Aromi Italian Cuisine (La Mesa)

Bongiovanni’s Italian Restaurant (Alpine)

Di Leone’s Italian Restaurant  (El Cajon)

Dolci Café Italiano (Rancho San Diego)

Donato’s Italian Restaurant  (Alpine)

Filippi's Pizza Grotto  (Jamul, Santee, and other San Diego locations)

Franca’s Italian Kitchen and Bar (Alpine)

Gaetanos Italian Restaurant  (Spring Valley and Lakeside)

Giardino Neighborhood Cucina (Lemon Grove)

Italian Cucina (Barona Resort and Casino, Lakeside)

Lido’s Italian Foods (Lemon Grove)

Limoncello Modern Italian (La Mesa)

Little Roma Italian Restaurant (La Mesa)

Marechiaro's on Olde Highway 80  (El Cajon/Flinn Springs)

Mediterraneo Italian Bistro & Bar (Alpine)

Mona’s Italian Restaurant (Allied Gardens)

Nicolosi’s Italian Restaurant (Santee) -- Italian

Olive Garden (La Mesa and Santee)

Ottavio’s Italian (Lakeside)

Pietro’s Cucina Italiana  (La Mesa) 

Testo Pepesto (El Cajon)

ITALIAN—PIZZA

Chicago Pizza (Santee) – pizza

Corner Deli and Pizza (Sycuan Casino Resort)

D'Amato's Pizza (La Mesa) – pizza and Italian food

Del Cerro Pizza and Beer (Del Cerro) – pizza and beer

Filippi's Pizza Grotto  (Jamul, Santee, and other San Diego locations) - Italian

Franco’s Giant Pizza  (Rancho San Diego/El Cajon) - pizza

Frank's Pizza Joint (La Mesa) – pizza

Heroes Restaurant and Bar (Santa Ysabel) – wood-fired pizza

Long Island Mike's  (Spring Valley) – pizza

Mamma Ramona’s Pizzaria (Ramona) – pizza

New York Giant Pizza  (El Cajon) – pizza

Pizza Hut  (Alpine and La Mesa) – pizza

Round Table Pizza (La Mesa and Spring Valley) – pizza

Surfrider Pizza (La Mesa) – pizza

Tommy’s Pizza and Subs (Santee) – sub sandwiches and pizza

Woodstock's Pizza (SDSU college area)  -- pizza

JAMAICAN

Island Spice Jamaican (SDSU College area)

Caribbean Taste (near Skyline)

JAPANESE AND SUSHI

Banbu Sushi (La Mesa) –Japanese and sushi

Kawaii Sushi (La Mesa) -Japanese and sushi

Oishi Thai Japanese Cuisine (Rolando)

Vibes Sushi Bar and Grill (Ramona)

KOREAN

Dongbu Korean Barbecue (Escondido)

Kagnan Korean Barbecue (Rancho Bernardo)

Tong Sake House (Poway)

LAOTIAN

Pha Kao Lao Cuisine (SDSU College area)

LEBANESE

Alforon (SDSU College area) – Lebanese and Middle Eastern

MEDITERRANEAN

Ali Baba (El Cajon)

Happy Time Mediterranean  (Rancho San Diego/El Cajon)

Luna Grill  (El Cajon/Rancho San Diego) -Mediterranean

Mystic Grill (La Mesa) -Mediterranean

Oyster and Pearl Bar Restaurant (La Mesa) – Mediterranean

Tarbosh (El Cajon) – Syrian and Mediterranean

Yanni’s Bar and Grill (Scripps Ranch) – Northern Mediterranean

Zad, Mediterranean (Spring Valley) - Mediterranean

MEXICAN

Al Pancho's (Alpine)

Albert's Fresh Mexican Food (La Mesa and Lakeside)

Alpine Taco Shop  (Alpine)

Carmelita’s Mexican Grill and Cantina (Borrego Springs)

Casa de Pico  (La Mesa)

Frida’s Taqueria (Ramona)

Casa Gabriela (La Mesa)

City Tacos  (La Mesa and other locations)

El Mariachi  (El Cajon)

El Torito (La Mesa)

Hacienda Casa Blanca (El Cajon)

Las Pinches Tortas  (Rancho San Diego/El Cajon) 

Mañana’s Mexican Food  (Alpine)

Marieta’s (Alpine, El Cajon, La Mesa and Santee)

Pablito’s Mexican Bar and Grill (Borrego Springs)

Picante Taqueria (Allied Gardens)

Poncho’s Mexican Food  (Rancho San Diego/El Cajon)

Por Favor  (El Cajon)

Quecho’s Elevated Mexican Eatery (Julian)

Roberto’s Taco Shop (Santee)

Rosarito’s Mexican Food (Lemon Grove)

Rubio's Coastal Grill  (Alpine, El Cajon, La Mesa and other locations)

Salsa Mexican Food  (Alpine) 

Sombrero’s Mexican Restaurant  (El Cajon and La Mesa)

Suerte Cantina (Sycuan)

Terramar Mexican Kitchen (Ramona)

MIDDLE EASTERN

Ali Baba (El Cajon)

Alforon (SDSU College area) – Lebanese and Middle Eastern

Happy Time Mediterranean  (Rancho San Diego/El Cajon)

Luna Grill  (El Cajon/Rancho San Diego) -Mediterranean

Ney Restaurant (La Mesa)

Sahara Taste of the Middle East (Rancho San Diego)

Schwarma Guys (La Mesa) – Middle Eastern

Tarbosh (El Cajon) – Syrian and Mediterranean

Zad, Mediterranean (Spring Valley)

MONGOLIAN

Stir Fresh Mongolian Grill (Rancho Bernardo)

NEPALESE

Himalayan Restaurant  (La Mesa) - Nepalese and Indian

Taste of the Himalayas (El Cajon) – Nepalese

PERSIAN (IRANIAN)

Shiraz (Rancho Bernardo) – Persian/Iranian cuisine

PERUVIAN

Eli’s Peruvian Kitchen (City Heights)  

Sangucheria Peruvian Street Food (Tierrasanta)

SALVADORAN

Pupusa’s Express (El Cajon)

SOMALI

African Spices (Rolando) African and Somali

Bisbas Restaurant (Rolando) – Somali, African (website coming soon at https://bisbasrestaurant.com/

Faridas Somali/East African Cuisine (Euclid) -Somali, East African

Fatuma Restaurant (Euclid) African, Somali,  Mediterranean

Taste of Africa Cuisine (SDSU College area)

SPAIN

Tour de Tapas (La Mesa) – Tapas, small plates and desserts from Spain, France and Italy

SYRIAN

Mal Al Sham (El Cajon)

Tarbosh (El Cajon) – Syrian and Mediterranean

THAI

Basil Thai Bistro  (San Carlos)

Busy B Thai Cafe (El Cajon)

Panya Thai (Escondido)

Pinto Thai  (Ramona)

PR9 Thai Restaurant (La Mesa)

Signature Thai Cuisine (La Mesa)

Tamarind Thai  (La Mesa)

TURKISH

Brother’s Turkish Cuisine (El Cajon)

Finjan Shop and Café (El Cajon)

VIETNAMESE

Lakeside Pho and Grill (Lakeside)

Pho Hoa Noodle Shop (SDSU College area)

Ph’o Minh and Grill  (Spring Valley)

Phra Ram 9   (La Mesa)

Pho Superbowl Vietnamese Cuisine (El Cajon)

Saigon Star Restaurant (Allied Gardens)

Ranch offers petting zoo, summer camp and Airbnb experiences

By Mimi Pollack

Photo:  baby goats named Daisy Duke and Billy the Kid

February 18, 2025 (Jamul) -- With his friendly smile and warm blue eyes, Farmer Pat [as he likes to be called] welcomes you to Jamul Trails Ranch, a little oasis in Jamul. Pat and Kim Dillon have built a nice life for themselves and now want to share it with others.  

They opened Jamul Trails Ranch, where both children and adults can enjoy a variety of events involving their farm animals, including baby chicks and silkies, bunnies, guinea pigs, goats, mini-donkeys, horses, ducks, a tortoise, and a noisy goose. As stated in their press release, they want to be “East County’s premier destination for petting zoo tours, educational field trips, kids’ aquarium workshops and as an event and party venue. 

They want their ranch to be the place “for those seeking a rare combination of animal experiences, knowledge, hands on opportunities and natural beauty. This ranch provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience the best of ranch living."

Photo, right:  a female donkey named Noel

In 2015, Kim and Pat’s daughter bought the ranch in Jamul. Several people boarded their horses there, so it continued to be a horse ranch. In 2019, she moved out of state and sold the place to her parents. Kim and Pat continued boarding horses there and brought in other farm animals.

In Spring of last year, they opened as a petting zoo and event venue. Families have brought their children there to have parties, play games and enjoy the animals while learning about them.

According to their press release, Jamul Trails Ranch wants to be a place that provides the following key features.

• Seasonal Events: Experience your next party surrounded in a festive ranch setting with friendly animals at the Premier Petting Zoo in San Diego! The ranch offers a variety of event spaces ideal for weddings, corporate retreats, holiday parties and social gatherings, with breathtaking outdoor backdrops.
• Kids Birthday Parties: Enjoy time meeting our ranch animals.  Our basic experience will expose you with intimate time spent with our animal friends.  Feed, hold and pet them all on a guided tour by Pat. Great time to take pictures to document your guest’s visit.
• Educational Field Trips for Groups: A great experience for preschoolers, and young kids up to about fifth grade! Pat, your guide, will lead you through the Petting Zoo tour with his knowledge of living and growing up on a ranch!  You will feed, hold and pet all our animals! Designed for larger groups.The ranch is safe and clean with restrooms and handwashing facilities.
• Private Family Petting Zoo Tour: The Premier Petting Zoo in San Diego! Enjoy time meeting the Ranch animals on a tour led by Pat.
• Kids Aquarium Workshop Party: Coming in February 2025, an educational aquatic experience. Tour Jamul Trails Ranch’s fish room and learn the basics of fish keeping and the science behind it. Everyone will build and decorate their own fully functioning fish tank, then catch their own fish to put in it. The tanks have a light, filter system, and water change system. All systems are USB driven so it is safe to put in the kids' bedroom. You also receive food and full instructions.  In addition, Pat also raises some unusual fish originally from Venezuela, called Endlers. Endlers are known for their beautiful colors.

Photo, left: a baby colt named Ringo

This summer, they will have day camps for kids. During the camp, participants will work with donkeys, horses, rabbits, geese, ducks, chickens, tortoises and fish. They will participate in all aspects of keeping the ranch running.

Farmer Pat, who grew up on a working ranch, will lead the camps with an educational focus, teaching children the basics of ranch work, animal handling and feeding, horse care, basic horse-riding skills, egg collection and pancake and egg cooking. Fun activities and crafts will also be incorporated into each day.  In addition, they will have the added experience of running a full fish room with over 200 tanks. Campers will arrive city slickers and go home asranchers! 

City Slickers Day Camps are available from June 15 to August 15, from 9 to 3. They will offer early drop-off and late pick-up options.

On the day that I went to visit, I had a great time. Farmer Pat is wonderful with both people and animals and kept my interest with all his knowledge and interesting tidbits. I also got to pet and /or hold baby chicks, beautiful bunnies and guinea pigs, mini donkeys, a pair of goats, several horses and a baby colt whose coat felt like velvet. It is obvious that he and Kim take pride in what they do. 

As Kim says, “Our goal is to become a haven for kids that don’t have access to animals and ranch life! We’d like to become a really great place for families to celebrate birthday parties or just a day on the farm at our petting zoo tour. It’s our way to give back to the community!” 

Finally, they have also opened two Airbnb units for people to rent and enjoy time on the ranch. They say it has been a great experience, and they have met people from all over the world.

Their website is: Jamul Trails Ranch
 

Photo, left: Farmer Pat

Looking to chow down on an all-American burger, steak, or seafood dinner?  Or savor regional cuisine such as Cajun, Southern, soul food, California cuisine, or Texas-style barbecue?

Perhaps you’re hankering for health food, jarm-to-table fresh meals, or vegan options.  Or you're craving a sub sandwich or Jewish deli.  You can even sample exotic foods from Hawaii or U.S. territories including Guam and Puerto Rico—all in San Diego’s East County!

Our guide below lists many delicious options, arranged alphabetically by category.  Note:  Many of these eateries also offer options beyond American. Click each link to view full menus.

American-general

Applebee’s  (El Cajon and Rancho San Diego) – steaks, bowls, seafood, sandwiches, salads

Centifoni’s Restaurant  (La Mesa) –sandwiches, burgers, soups, salads and more

Denny's (all locations) -American-style breakfasts, lunches and dinners

D’Carlos (Ramona) – steaks, sandwiches, burgers and more

Descanso Junction (Descanso) – cowboy classics, frontier favorites, barbecue and more

Fox Bistro at La Casa del Zorro (Borrego Springs) -  seafood, steaks, salads, sandwiches, and more

H Brothers (Escondido) – North American comfort food

Jimmy’s of Santee (Santee) -- home-cooked American such as chicken pot pies, country-fried steak, prime rib, and meatloaf

Maria Callender’s  (La Mesa) – American foods and pies

Mastiff Kitchen (La Mesa) -  burgers, salads, flatbread pizza and more

Outpost by Valley Farms (Mt. Laguna) – Burgers, barbecue, and more

 Pine House Café and Tavern (Mount Laguna) – American, French, and fondue

Rainbow Oaks Restaurant (Rainbow) -American foods in a historic rustic setting

Ram’s Hill Restaurant (Borrego Springs) – upscale dining; steak, seafood, burgers, chicken, and more

Rank & File -  (Sycuan Casino & Resort in El Cajon) – American comfort food

Red Ocotillo (Borrego Springs) -- benedicts, burgers, sandwiches, salads, soups, pasta

The Trails Eatery (San Carlos) – American, breakfast and lunch

Bagels

Einstein Brothers Bagels (Del Cerro, San Carlos, Santee) – bagels, bagel sandwiches

Gold Coast Bagel (La Mesa/Lake Murray) – bagels and bagel sandwiches

Golden Bagel Café (El Cajon/Fletcher Hills) – bagels and bagel sandwiches

Memo’s Bagel Café (El Cajon) – bagels, sandwiches, wraps, focaccia, acai bowls, more

Barbecue

Buckboards BBQ & Brew  (El Cajon) – Santa Maria-style barbecue

Cali Comfort   (Spring Valley) – barbecue and pub food

Chamorro Grill (Grantville/Mission Gorge) – island barbecue with dishes from Hawaii, Guam and more

Coop’s West Texas BBQ (Lemon Grove) – Texas barbecue

Del’s Hideout (Del Cerro) – Texas-style slow-cooked barbecue

Descanso Junction (Descanso) – cowboy classics, frontier favorites, barbecue and more

Fat Ivor’s (Valley Center) – Texas-style barbecue

Grand Ole BBQ (Flinn Springs/El Cajon) – Texas-style barbecue

I-Que BBQ  (La  Mesa) – barbecue ribs, burgers, hot links andmore

Jay’s Southern Barbecue (Alpine) – Southern-style barbecue and soul food

L & L Hawaiian Barbecue (Ramona)

Phil's BBQ (Santee)  -- mesquite-brilled barbecue

Pioneer Barbecue (Fletcher Hills/El Cajon) -Texas-style barbecue

Smokey and the Brisket  (La Mesa) - Barbecue

Texas Roadhouse (El Cajon) – barbecue

Valley Farms Market - The Shack (Spring Valley) - barbecue, bowls, burritos and breakfasts

Breakfasts

Broken Yolk (Santee and SDSU College area)

International House of Pancakes (IHOP) (La Mesa)

Omelette Factory (Rancho San Diego and Santee)

Original Pancake House (Poway)

Sunshine Pancake House (La Mesa)

Breweries serving food

BJ’s Brewhouse (La Mesa)

Burning Beard Brewing Company (El Cajon)- beers, burgers, tri-trip, tacos, and more

Julian Beer Company (Julian) – pizzas, barbecue, salads and more

Mike Hess Brewing (Alpine) –Pub foods and craft beers

Burgers

Bighorn Burgers and Shakes (Borrego Springs)- burgers and shakes

Boll Weevil (Lakeside) – steer burgers, veggie burgers, chicken sandwiches

Brody’s Burgers and Beers (Jamul) – burgers, beers and more

Duke’s Old Fashioned Onion Burgers (La Mesa) – Oklahoma-style onion burgers

Full Metal Burgers (Escondido) – hand-crafted burgers, sandwiches and vegan options

Habit Burger and Grill (El Cajon, La Mesa, and SDSU college area) --charburgers

Johnny B’s  (La Mesa)  -- burgers and brews

Cafes and diners

Black Bear Diner  (El Cajon) – American cuisine

Brother’s Family Diner (Del Cerro) 

Campo Café (Campo) - American cuisine

Carlee's  (Borrego Springs) -American diner

Downtown Cafe  (El Cajon) – American

Izzy's Cafe (El Cajon) barbecue and country-style cooking

Kendall’s Café (Borrego Springs) – American and Mexican

Lakeside Café and Bakery (Lakeside) – American and Mexican entrees

Lemon Grove Café (Lemon Grove) - Mexican, Greek, and American

Lunchbox (La Mesa) - American breakfast and lunch

Julian Café and Bakery (Julian) – American foods and pies

Memo’s Bagel Café (El Cajon) – bagels, sandwiches, wraps, focaccia, acai bowls, more

Miner’s Diner (Julian) -burgers, sandwiches, soups, salads, soda fountain

Patty's Cafe (La Mesa) – American and Mexican

Janet’s Montana Café (Alpine) – American and Mexican entrees; breakfast and lunch

Off the 8 Café (Alpine) -- breakfast

Rachel’s Café and Eatery (Ramona)

Ramona Café (Ramona)

Sheldon’s Service (La Mesa) – Coffee, breakfast and lunch

Steele 94 Restaurant and Bar – roadhouse serving American and Mexican

Urbane Cafe (El Cajon) – sandwiches, salads, soups

California Cuisine

Bellamy’s Restaurant (Escondido) – California modern cuisine

Julian Grille  (Julian) – California cuisine and timeless dishes

Sage Cafe  (Barona Casino in Lakeside) – California cuisine

Viewpoint Neighborhood Kitchen (Sycuan) – Southern California cuisine

Cajun

Boxing Crab (Roland) – seafood and Cajun

Crab Pub (SDSU college area) – Cajun seafood

Cheeses

Bougie’s Cheese Shop (La Mesa) – cheeses and salamis

Chicken

Ali’s Chicken and Waffles (City Heights)

Chick-Fil-A  (La Mesa and Santee)

Chicken Charlie’s (Rancho Bernardo) - chicken

El Pollo Loco (La Mesa and Santee)

Greek Chicken (El Cajon and Lakeside) 

Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers (Lemon Grove and Santee) – chicken

Coffee shops

See our guide here:  https://www.eastcountymagazine.org/where-get-good-cup-coffee-east-county

Delis 

Ben and Esther’s Vegan and Jewish Deli (Rolando

Corner Deli and Pizza (Sycuan Casino Resort)

Danny’s Deli (Jacumba Hot Springs) – sandwiches, pizza and more

D.Z. Akins (La Mesa)

Hangry's Sunset Deli and Pizza  (Sycuan Casino Resort in El Cajon) – pizza and deli

Jersey Mikes (many locations) – sub sandwiches

K&B Bistro (Del Cerro) – sandwiches, tacos, burger, flatbreads, salads and more

Main Street Donuts and Deli (El Cajon)

Pepper Farm Deli (Santee) – deli sandwiches

Philly Steak Subs (El Cajon) Philly steak sandwiches

Ramona Family Naturals Market and Deli  (Ramona) – natural foods deli

Subway  (Alpine, La Mesa and other locations) – sub sandwiches

Sunrise Deli  (Spring Valley) – deli

Tommy’s Pizza and Subs (Santee) – sub sandwiches and pizza

Trolley Stop Deli (La Mesa) – deli sandwiches

Farm to Table

Collette’s on Grand (Escondido)  farm-to-table, American and French-inspired

Farmer's Table (La Mesa) – farm-to-table cuisine

Farmhouse 78  (Ramona) – farm to table

Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel Restaurant (Jacumba Hot Springs) – farm-to-table, Mexican, seafood, and more

Jeremy’s on the Hill (Wynola/Julian) – farm to table

Marinade on Main  (Ramona) – farm to table

Rachel’s Café and Eatery (Ramona) – farm-to-table

Rolando Garden Kitchen  (Rolando) – farm to table, special events only

Fruits and juice bars

Edible Arrangements  (La Mesa) – fruit arrangements

Extraordinary Fruits (Spring Valley) – fruits, juices, bowls, smoothies, salads, vegan, tortas and more

Fruity Loco (Spring Valley) – juices, smoothies, acai bowls, more

Tropifruit Juice Bar (El Cajon) – juices, sandwiches, bagels, smoothies, juice bars, sandwiches

Hawaiian

Island Style Café (Santee) -- Hawaiian

L&L Hawaiian Barbecue (El Cajon, Escondido, Ramona, SDSU College area)

Poke’Ona (Ramona) -- Hawaiian (Rancho San Diego) – American cuisine

Healthy foods

Extraordinary Fruits (Spring Valley) – fruits, juices, bowls, smoothies, salads, vegan, tortas and more

Tropifruit Juice Bar (El Cajon) – juices, sandwiches, bagels, smoothies, juice bars, sandwiches

Kali’s Garden (Julian) – Vegan cuisine, Mexican and Asian options; juices, smoothies

La Mesa Bistro (La Mesa) – healthy and nutritious foods; breakfast and lunch

Plant Power Fast Food (SDSU College area) – meatless burgers, salads, and more

Ramona Family Naturals Market and Deli  (Ramona) – natural foods deli

Spacebar Cafe  (La Mesa) -- soups, salads, panini sandwiches, bagel sandwiches, pastries, breakfast items, Spanish style tapas, coffees, juices, smoothies, wine bar

Swami’s Café (La Mesa) – salads, soups, burgers, wraps, sandwiches ,smoothies, juices, breakfast and lunch

Tropifruit Juice Bar (El Cajon) – juices, sandwiches, bagels, smoothies

Jewish deli

Ben and Esther’s Vegan and Jewish Deli (Rolando) – vegan Jewish deli

D.Z. Akins (La Mesa) – traditional Jewish deli

Pubs, Bars, and Taverns serving food

The Barn Bar and Dining (Ramona) – steak, burgers, pizza, salads, and more

Baron Long Bar & Grill  (Viejas Casino and Resort, Alpine) – bar foods, craft beers and cocktails

Casino Inn  (Alpine) bar and grill

Double Down Grill (Sycuan Casino & Resort, El Cajon) –pub food: sandwiches, burritos and more

Eastbound Bar and Grill (Lakeside)

The Hills Pub (La Mesa) -Pub food

Junction Bar and Grill (El Cajon) – burgers, steaks, tacos, pasta and more

Press Box Sports Lounge

Pub at Lake Cuyamaca (Cuyamaca) -soups, sandwiches, burgers, salads, fish and chips, and breakfast foods

Public House (Scripps Ranch) - gastropub

Red Tail Bar and Grill at Singing Hills (El Cajon) -Southern California cuisine

Tony Gwynn's Sports Pub  (Jamul Casino) – burgers, brews, sandwiches, pizza, tacos, and more

Puerto Rican

Jibaritos de la Isla (Bonita)—Puerto Rican

Salads

Crafted Greens  (El Cajon) – salads, hot sides, flatbreads

Seafood

Anthony's Fish Grotto  (La Mesa)

Boxing Crab (Roland) – seafood and Cajun

Brigantine Seafood and Oyster Bar (La Mesa) - seafood

California Fish Grill  (El Cajon) – seafood, wraps, Cajun tacos, and more

Crab Pub (SDSU college area) – Cajun seafood

Oyster and Pearl Bar Restaurant (La Mesa) -- Mediterranean

Prime Cut Steak and Seafood  (Jamul Casino) – steak and seafood

Surf and Soul (Roland) – seafood and soul food

Surfing Crab (Escondido) – seafood boils, South Carolina-style

Surfside Fish House (Scripps Ranch) – fresh fish

Terramar Mexican Kitchen (Ramona) -Mexican and seafood

Soul Food and Southern

Bankhead Mississippi-Style Cooking (Spring Valley) – Southern and soul food

Jay’s Southern Barbecue (Alpine) – Southern-style barbecue and soul food

Rise Southern Biscuits and Chicken (SDSU College Area)

Surf and Soul (Rolando) – seafood and soul food

Steak

Black Angus Steakhouse (El Cajon) – steak, prime rib, seafood and more

Bull and Bourbon Steakhouse (Sycuan) steak, seafood and more

Coyote Steakhouse  (Borrego Springs) – steak, chops, seafood and more

Grove Steakhouse (Viejas in Alpine) -steaks, classic and contemporary cuisine

Outback Steakhouse (El Cajon) – steaks, lobster, shrimp, burgrers and more

Prime Cut Steak and Seafood  (Jamul Casino) – steak and seafood

Ram’s Hill Restaurant (Borrego Springs) – upscale dining; steak, seafood, and more

Riviera Supper Club  (La Mesa) -grill-your-own steakhouse and bar

Vegan and vegetarian

El Veganito (La Mesa/Grossmont Center food court) – Vegan/Mexican

Kali’s Garden (Julian) – Vegan cuisine, Mexican and Asian options; juices, smoothies

Plant Power Fast Food (SDSU College area) – meatless burgers, salads, and more

Purple Mint (City Heights) – Vegan Asian cuisine

Purple Owl Café (Julian) – coffee, crepes, salads, vegan foods

Split Bakehouse (La Mesa) – vegan pastries

Wine bars with food

Reds,  Whites and Blues (Ramona)

San Pasqual Winery  - (La Mesa) wine tasting, charcuterie

Spacebar Cafe  (La Mesa) -- soups, salads, panini sandwiches, bagel sandwiches, pastries, breakfast items, Spanish style tapas, coffees, juices, smoothies, wine bar

Village Vino (Kensington) – small bites, charcuterie, salads, flatbreads

Zest Wine Bistro (Lemon Grove) - appetizers, soups, salads and flatbreads

Wraps

Wrap Shack (Santee and El Cajon) -- wraps (Lemon Grove) – International winds, charcuterie, and tapas

Our guide to delicious desserts in San Diego's inland region

San Diego’s East County has many options to satisfy your sweet tooth, thanks to our diverse population and rich heritage. From all-American Julian apple pies, candy cottages and ice cream parlors to international desserts such as Franch pastries, Mexican cakes and Middle Eastern baklava, you’ll find a wide variety of delicious desserts to savor—and even a vegan bakery.

Bakeries

Apple Alley Bakery (Julian) – pies, pastries and lunch items

Baklava King (Santee) – baklava

A Delight of France (Escondido)- French bistro and bakery

Al-Hamdani Sweets (Spring Valley) – Baklava and Middle Eastern sweets

Dudley’s Bakery (Santa Ysabel) – fresh-baked breads, sandwiches, pies

CroBean Bakery (Alpine) French bakery and coffee shop

Einstein Brothers Bagels (Del Cerro, San Carlos, Santee) – bagels, bagel sandwiches

Frank's Bakery- Gibaldi's Italian Bread (Spring Valley) – bakery

French Oven Bakery and Café (Scripps Ranch) – French pastries and more

Gold Coast Bagel (La Mesa/Lake Murray) – bagels and bagel sandwiches

Golden Bagel Café (El Cajon/Fletcher Hills) – bagels and bagel sandwiches

Julian Café and Bakery (Julian) – American foods and pies

Julian Pie Company (Julian and Wynola)

Lakeside Café and Bakery (Lakeside) – American and Mexican entrees

Lilac Heights Bakery (Ramona) home-based bakery

Maria Callender’s  (La Mesa) – American foods and pies

Memo’s Bagel Café (El Cajon) – bagels, sandwiches, wraps, focaccia, acai bowls, more

Miss Donuts (Casa de Oro/Spring Valley) – donuts and coffee

Mom’s Pie House (Julian) – pies

Split Bakehouse (La Mesa) – vegan pastries

Sultan’s Baklava (El Cajon)  --Turkish delights

Su Pan Bakery (El Cajon, Poway and San Marcos) – Mexican cakes and breads

Candy Stores

Bighorn Fudge Company (Borrego Springs) – fudge candy

Julian Candy Basket (Julian) – old-fashioned candy store

Wisteria Candy Cottage (Boulevard) – hand-dipped chocolates and candies

Donuts

Dunkin’ Donuts (Ramona)

Main Street Donuts and Deli (El Cajon)

Mary’s Donuts (Lakeside)

Steph’s Donut Hole  (Alpine) -donuts

Ice Cream

Baskin Robbins  (La Mesa, El Cajon, and Ramona)

Café Amor (Spring Valley) Menu – ice cream, smoothies, Crepes, sandwiches, bagels

Cold Stone Creamery  (Rancho San Diego, Santee, and other locations) – ice cream

Foster’s Freeze (Allied Gardens and Spring Valley) – ice cream, shakes, burgers, hot dogs

Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream (Santee)

Miner’s Diner (Julian) – old-fashioned soda foundation

Puddings

Extraordinary Banana Pudding (La Mesa) – hand-crafted puddings

Yogurt, frozen

Alpine Chill  (Alpine) – frozen yogurt

Menchie's Frozen Yogurt (La Mesa, El Cajon and Rancho San Diego – frozen yogurt

Yogurt Mill (La Mesa) – frozen yogurt