Explore dining and activities in North City in San Marcos, CA! North City is a growing community with established businesses and new developments. Discover unique eats, fun activities, and community events in this guide.
Locals and visitors won’t have to travel to Northern Italy to eat delicious Italian cuisine. Owner Matteo Cattaneo’s fifth location of Buona Forchetta serves wood-fired, award-winning Neapolitan-style pizza with soft-yet-crispy crusts and handmade pasta. Step into their cozy indoor setup or sit outside under the shaded patio to get some fresh air. BONUS! The patio is surrounded by a well-tended rose garden for a serene setting.
Buona Forchetta was recognized in 2023 as “Best Pizza – Critics Choice” in San Diego Magazine and also won OpenTable Diner’s Choice.
Buona Forchetta's homemade pasta is a must-try - especially the lasagna!
Locals and visitors won’t have to travel to Northern Italy to eat delicious Italian cuisine. Owner Matteo Cattaneo’s fifth location of Buona Forchetta serves wood-fired, award-winning Neapolitan-style pizza with soft-yet-crispy crusts and handmade pasta. Step into their cozy indoor setup or sit outside under the shaded, patio to get some fresh air. BONUS! The patio is surrounded by a well-tended rose garden for a serene setting.
Buona Forchetta was recognized in 2023 as “Best Pizza – Critics Choice” in San Diego Magazine and also won OpenTable Diner’s Choice.
Hours of Operation:
Monday - Closed
Tuesday - 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Wednesday - 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Thursday - 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Friday - 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday- 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Sunday - 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
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Copa Vida
Enjoy a perfectly crafted cup of coffee (or tea!) at Copa Vida while taking in the North City atmosphere from the shop's patio seating. Pair your drink with a pastry, sandwich, soup, salad, or breakfast burrito.
Prefer to brew your own coffee? Pick up some brewing gear and single-origin coffee to craft and enjoy in your own kitchen.
Don't miss Copa Vida's rotating seasonal drinks! They have mastered the intersection between great taste and creativity.
Enjoy a perfectly crafted cup of coffee (or tea!) at Copa Vida while taking in the North City atmosphere from the shop's patio seating. Pair your drink with a pastry, sandwich, soup, salad, or breakfast burrito.
Prefer to brew your own coffee? Pick up some brewing gear and single-origin coffee to craft and enjoy in your own kitchen.
Hours of Operation:
Monday - 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Tuesday - 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Wednesday - 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Thursday - 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Friday - 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Saturday - Closed
Sunday - Closed
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Draft Republic
With over 28,000 square feet of dining and entertainment space, this hot spot features an 8-lane boutique bowling alley, a state-of-the-art Ful Swing Golf Simulator, a modern arcade, and 30+ TVs (plus an LED video wall) to watch all your favorite sports. Draft Republic is home to the satellite facility for Tarantula Hills Brewing Co., serving freshly brewed craft beers among its 40+ beers on tap and full-service cocktail bar.
Outside, the patio is reminiscent of a classic picnic at the park, complete with lawn games, and live music Saturdays & Sundays from 2-5 pm.
Enjoy craft beer, wine, specialty drinks, and discounted bites during happy hour on Monday-Friday from 4-5:30 pm.
Tuesdays were made for Tacos & Tequila at Draft Republic! Enjoy $6 Margaritas, $5 Tacos, plus 50% OFF All Top Shelf Tequila & Mezcal and Surf n' Turf Quesadilla.
With over 28,000 square feet of dining and entertainment space, this hot spot features an 8-lane boutique bowling alley, a state-of-the-art Ful Swing Golf Simulator, a modern arcade, and 30+ TVs (plus an LED video wall) to watch all your favorite sports. Draft Republic is home to the satellite facility for Tarantula Hills Brewing Co., serving freshly brewed craft beers among its 40+ beers on tap and full-service cocktail bar.
Outside, the patio is reminiscent of a classic picnic at the park, complete with lawn games, and live music Saturdays & Sundays from 2-5 pm.
Enjoy craft beer, wine, specialty drinks, and discounted bites during happy hour on Monday-Friday from 4-5:30 pm.
Hours of Operation:
Monday - 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Tuesday - 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Wednesday - 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Thursday - 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Friday - 4:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Saturday - 11:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Sunday - 9:30 AM - 9:00 PM
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Maya's Cookies
Maya’s Cookies is the perfect stop for a sweet treat with a healthy twist. This one-of-a-kind cookie company has served guests the most delicious vegan cookies since 2015, growing into America's #1 Black-Owned Gourmet Vegan Cookie Company.
Owner Maya Madsen's baking style is inspired by her travels and her overall life experiences, ranging from classic chocolate chip to more forward-thinking flavors such as "Drunken Grandma," "White Chocolate Espresso," and her "Famous 'Everything' Cookie."
Besides baking delectable goods, Maya also serves the community by working with youth and underrepresented communities.
Celebrate a special event or achievement by ordering a box of 6 cookies for delivery, anywhere in the US. Comes in a Maya's Cookies gift box or reusable tin!
Maya’s Cookies is the perfect stop for a sweet treat with a healthy twist. This one-of-a-kind cookie company has served guests the most delicious vegan cookies since 2015, growing into America's #1 Black-Owned Gourmet Vegan Cookie Company.
Owner Maya Madsen's baking style is inspired by her travels and her overall life experiences, ranging from classic chocolate chip to more forward-thinking flavors such as "Drunken Grandma," "White Chocolate Espresso," and her "Famous 'Everything' Cookie."
Besides baking delectable goods, Maya also serves the community by working with youth and underrepresented communities.
Hours of Operation:
Monday - Closed
Tuesday - 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Wednesday - 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Thursday - 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Friday - 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Saturday - 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Sunday - 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM
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Milonga Empanadas
Looking for South American-inspired cuisine? Search no further than Milonga Empanadas in North City! Argentinian empanadas and other great items such as the "Fugazzetta," "Chimichurri," and the "Criolla" are freshly baked to order and have been a hit in the community since 2021.
Before opening his first brick-and-mortar store in North City, owner Matias Bienati brought the rich flavors of Argentina to local farmers' markets, sharing dishes made with traditional flavors and fresh, seasonal ingredients during the height of the pandemic.
Keep an eye out, for Milonga Empanadas is now serving wine and two draft beers.
INSIDER'S TIP: Don’t forget to try their spinach and their criolla empanadas. All of them are delicious, but these two selections are a must-try! Order a pack of three for $15 for lunch, or try one for $6.
Order online for delivery or pickup, savory or sweet! These empanadas will not disappoint.
Looking for any South American-inspired cuisine? Go no further than to Milonga Empanadas right here in North City! Argentinian empanadas and other great items such as the "Fugazzetta," "Chimichurri," and the "Criolla" are freshly baked to order and have been a hit in the community since 2021.
Before opening his first brick-and-mortar store in North City, owner Matias Bienati brought the rich flavors of Argentina to local farmers' markets, sharing dishes made with traditional flavors and fresh, seasonal ingredients during the height of the pandemic.
Keep an eye out, for Milonga Empanadas is now serving wine and two draft beers.
INSIDER'S TIP: Don’t forget to try their spinach and their criolla empanadas. All of them are delicious, but these two selections are a must-try! Order a pack of three for $15 for lunch, or try one for $6.
Hours of Operation:
Monday - 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday - 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday - 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Thursday - 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Friday - 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Saturday - 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Sunday - Closed
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J. Brix Wines - Now Open!
Try J. Brix Wines for an unforgettable natural wine-tasting experience! With the opening of their first-ever tasting roomn right here in North City, J. Brix fans now have a special North San Diego County spot to enjoy.
J. Brix Wines have captivated wine enthusiasts, journalists, and sommerliers nationwide. Winemakers Jody and Emily Towe are renowned for their vibrant, minimalist take on classic Californian wines. Their distinctive offerings, like a Riesling Pet-Nat that topped The New York Times list, have earned them a devoted following.
But what IS natural wine? Natural wine is crafted with minimal intervention, relying on native yeasts for fermentation and organic or biodynamic grape growing. Unlike conventional wines, it contains fewer additives and reflects the pure essence of the grapes and their natural environment, offering an exciting and authentic tasting experience.
INSIDER'S TIP: Don’t miss out on their whites. We love all their wines, but their Chardonnay is to die for and should not be missed!
New Address: 250 N City Dr #10, San Marcos, CA 92078
Umami Japanese
Umami translates as “deliciousness” in Japanese, so it is no surprise that Umami Japanese packs on the flavor with authentic Asian flavors with a hint of California cuisine. Umami is one of North City’s newest restaurants and customers are guaranteed high-quality food made with fresh ingredients and beautiful presentation.
Two-time winners of the "Golden Fork Award" from the Taste of San Marcos, sushi cones and sushi muffins are must-try items that are as beautiful as they are tasty. Their other popular dishes include bento boxes, ramen, bao buns, poke bowls, and tempura ice cream!
INSIDERS' TIP: Don't miss out on their Mini Sushi Cone and Sushi Muffin. these rolls are some of the most fun sushi pieces we have ever found and so tasty!
Sushi Muffins and Mini Sushi Cones are a delight to the taste buds AND the eyes.
Umami translates as “deliciousness” in Japanese, so it is no surprise that Umami Japanese packs on the flavor with authentic Asian flavors with a hint of California cuisine. Umami is one of North City’s newest restaurants and customers are guaranteed high-quality food made with fresh ingredients and beautiful presentation.
Two-time winners of the "Golden Fork Award" from the Taste of San Marcos, sushi cones and sushi muffins are must-try items that are as beautiful as they are tasty. Their other popular dishes include bento boxes, ramen, bao buns, poke bowls, and tempura ice cream!
INSIDERS' TIP: Don't miss out on their Mini Sushi Cone and Sushi Muffin. these rolls are some of the most fun sushi pieces we have ever found and so tasty!
Hours of Operation:
Monday - Closed
Tuesday - 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Wednesday - 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Thursday - 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Friday - 11:30 AM - 9:30 PM
Saturday - 11:30 AM - 9:30 PM
Sunday - 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM
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Wynston's Ice Cream Co
Wynston’s Ice Cream is known for its dedication to quality, using only the finest ingredients and crafting each batch in small quantities to maximize flavor. Their signature "Insidings" — homemade, locally sourced bits and swirls — set their ice cream apart.
Wynston's has earned multiple honors at the North American Ice Cream Association's (NAICA) annual competition, where their ice creams are blind-tasted and judged against rigorous criteria. These awards, along with accolades from San Diego Magazine and Yelp, make Wynston’s a must-try for any ice cream lover.
Crazy about ice cream but not so much about dairy? HOLD THE COW is your answer! These flavors are totally dairy-free (and often vegan) but packed with all the taste you crave.
2023 NAICA Flavor of the Year (West Region) - Parmesan Apricot
Pro tip: stop next door to pair a Maya's Cookie with your ice cream for a uniquely tasty sweet treat.
Wynston’s Ice Cream is known for its dedication to quality, using only the finest ingredients and crafting each batch in small quantities to maximize flavor. Their signature "Insidings" — homemade, locally sourced bits and swirls — set their ice cream apart.
Wynston's has earned multiple honors at the North American Ice Cream Association's (NAICA) annual competition, where their ice creams are blind-tasted and judged against rigorous criteria. These awards, along with accolades from San Diego Magazine and Yelp, make Wynston’s is a must-try for any ice cream lover.
Crazy about ice cream but not so much about the cows? HOLD THE COW is your answer! These flavors are totally dairy-free (and often vegan) but packed with all the taste you crave.
2023 NAICA Flavor of the Year (West Region) - Parmesan Apricot
Hours of Operation:
Monday - 1:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Tuesday - 1:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday - 1:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Thursday - 1:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Friday - 1:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Saturday - 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Sunday - 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM
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North City Events
North City's Public Art Program
North City launched its Public Art & Cultural Program featuring art installations, rotating exhibitions, and community celebrations, most notably with the recent mural installation by renowned artist, Victoria Fu, and curated by DVDL. They are partnering with local artists to energize public spaces and offer creative programs for residents and visitors.
Climb to new heights at Mesa Rim, and connect with an inclusive community of climbers and other fitness members. Beginner- and advanced-level participants are welcome to join Mesa Rim classes and community events. Come for the climbing and fun activities; stay for the intentionally fostered learning environment where people can challenge themselves and grow as a result!
INSIDERS' TIP: Not up for a big wall climb or lacking a belay partner? Don’t worry. Mesa Rim at North City has an AMAZING bouldering circuit on their second floor providing you killer views to the west and a great workout - a rope-free way to get started with climbing.
Take a virtual tour of the climbing center here: my.matterport.com/show/?m=gnSTPPXocSk
Climb to new heights at Mesa Rim, and connect with an inclusive community of climbers and other fitness members. Beginner- and advanced-level participants are welcome to join Mesa Rim classes and community events. Come for the climbing and fun activities; stay for the intentionally fostered learning environment where people can challenge themselves and grow as a result!
INSIDERS' TIP: Not up for a big wall climb or lacking a belay partner? Don’t worry. Mesa Rim at North City has an AMAZING bouldering circuit on their second floor providing you killer views to the west and a great workout - a rope-free way to get started with climbing.
Hours of Operation:
Monday - 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Tuesday - 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday - 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Thursday - 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday - 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday - 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sunday - 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM
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Weekly Farmer's Market
North City hosts a farmer’s market every Tuesday from 3 PM to 7 PM, where residents and visitors can pick locally grown fresh fruits and veggies, get some seafood, freshly baked bread, and even dairy products. That's not all; visitors can find handcrafted gifts or fresh flower arrangements to give to that special someone! One of the best parts about North City’s Farmer’s Market in San Marcos is that it supports local farmers and small businesses.
The market also features an ever rotating mix of street food options to complement the existing North City restaurant options, for a chance to picnic on the lawn and enjoy free live music and people watching.
One of the most active times of the week, Tuesday afternoons' farmer's markets are the perfect time to take in the community atmosphere in North City.
North City hosts a farmer’s market every Tuesday from 3 PM to 7 PM, where residents and visitors can pick locally grown fresh fruits and veggies, get some seafood, freshly baked bread, and even dairy products. That's not all; visitors can find handcrafted gifts or fresh flower arrangements to give to that special someone! One of the best parts about North City’s Farmer’s Market in San Marcos is that it supports local farmers and small businesses.
The market also features an ever rotating mix of street food options to complement the existing North City restaurant options, for a chance to picnic on the lawn and enjoy free live music and people watching.
For those who enjoy listening to music, North City works with local production group, Gigtown, to curate musicians to perform live on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at the Block C Plaza. The musical styles range from genres such as Blues, Americana & Folk, Pop and so much more!
Cal State University of San Marcos is a high-ranking and well-respected university that enrolls 16,000 students annually. Its reputation and recognition have grown at a rapid rate since its founding in September 1989, and it is only growing! CSUSM’s Extended Learning building is located in North City, as well as student housing, the university’s Innovation Hub, and STEM success centers. Walk across the pedestrian bridge from North City to the center of campus in only 5 minutes!
CSUSM ranks #1 in the nation for social mobility for its students.
Cal State University of San Marcos is a high-ranking and well-respected university that enrolls 16,000 students annually. Its reputation and recognition have grown at a rapid rate since its founding in September 1989, and it is only growing!
Extended Learning is a premier resource of education, career training and lifelong learning programs for individuals in North County.
CSUSM’s Extended Learning building is located in North City, as well as student housing, the university’s Innovation Hub, and STEM success centers. Walk across the pedestrian bridge from North City to the center of campus in only 5 minutes!
CSUSM's Innovation Hub provides space where students and local community members can unleash their potential, connect, and innovate!
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Double Peak Park
Just south of North City, close to Lake San Marcos, Double Peak Park is a haven for people of any age to enjoy! This rugged, 200-acre park features a play area & hiking trails that lead to a summit with ocean views. Yes, OCEAN VIEWS from Inland North County!
If you're a hiker, you can take the 4.25-mile trek from Lakeview Park, which takes you past Discovery Lake. If you prefer a more relaxed approach, you can drive to the summit. At the top, you will be treated to panoramic views of mountainous North County and oceans to the west.
Take advantage of the provided telescope to get a good look at what some call "the best panoramic view in San Diego."
Just south of North City, close to Lake San Marcos, Double Peak Park is a haven for people of any age to enjoy! This rugged, 200-acre park features a play area & hiking trails that lead to a summit with ocean views. Yes, OCEAN VIEWS from Inland North County!
If you're a hiker, you can take the 4.25-mile trek from Lakeview Park, which takes you past Discovery Lake. If you prefer a more relaxed approach, you can drive to the summit. At the top, you will be treated to panoramic views of mountainous North County and oceans to the west.
Hours of Operation:
Monday - 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday - 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday - 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday - 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday - 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday - Closed
Sunday - Closed
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Bradley Bike Park
Interested in taking your biking skills to new heights? Bradley Bike Park is an 8-acre bike park, designed to accommodate dirt jumpers, BMX, and mountain bikers of all ages and skill levels. Newly opened in 2024, it's only about a 5-minute drive from North City and is loved by the local community.
This bike park is a game-changer for North County, being the first of its kind in the area. Now, local bikers don’t have to trek to the South Bay, Orange, or Riverside Counties to enjoy top-notch amenities—they're right here in our own backyard!
Interested in taking your biking skills to new heights? Bradley Bike Park is an 8-acre bike park, designed to accommodate dirt jumpers, BMX, and mountain bikers of all ages and skill levels. Newly opened in 2024, it's only about a 5-minute drive from North City and is loved by the local community.
Hours of Operation:
Monday - Closed
Tuesday - 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday - 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday - 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday - 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday - 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Sunday - 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
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Jack's Pond Park & Nature Center
Jack’s Pond Park is a lovely area to take walks with friends, family, and even your dog! Nature abounds, as trails wind around the pond and avid fishers can be found dotting the shorelines (be sure to get your fishing license first!). Picnic areas and a playground finish off the scene and make for a great day at the park.
Nearby, Jack’s Pond Nature Center provides hands-on education featuring a love of the outdoors. A volunteer program is available for those interested in educating others about conservation and the park’s local habitat.
Free and public admission to the Nature Center is available for visitors and volunteers on Sundays from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
The perfect spot for a beginner-level stroll in nature.
Jack’s Pond Park is a lovely area to take walks with friends, family, and even your dog! Nature abounds, as trails wind around the pond and avid fishers can be found dotting the shorelines (be sure to get your fishing license!). Picnic areas and a playground finish off the scene and make for a great day at the park.
Nearby, Jack’s Pond Nature Center provides hands-on education featuring a love of the outdoors. A volunteer program is available for those interested in educating others about conservation and the park’s local habitat.
Free and public admission to the Nature Center is available for visitors and volunteers on Sundays from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
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TERI Campus of Life
TERI Campus for Life is a great organization that brings the community together to serve those who have special needs. TERI has a group of employees, volunteers, and students who change lives through social gatherings, the arts, nutrition, agriculture, and more!
Parts of the 20-acre campus are under construction, but TERI still provides a multitude of services such as food and beverage, a therapeutic equestrian center, and even vocational, internship, and career opportunities for special needs adults.
Their impact on the local community revolves around their six pillars of care: education for special needs, residential lifetime housing, art & enrichment programs, family training & special services, vocational training & internships, and sustainable social enterprises.
On their website, discover ways to support TERI or take a look at their upcoming concerts featuring local artists.
Looking for an event venue that's nearby but feels away-from-it-all? Look no farther than TERI Campus of Life.
TERI Campus for Life is a great organization that brings the community together to serve those who have special needs. TERI has a group of employees, volunteers, and students who change lives through social gatherings, the arts, nutrition, agriculture, and more!
Parts of the 20-acre campus are under construction, but TERI still provides a multitude of services such as food and beverage, a therapeutic equestrian center, and even vocational, internship, and career opportunities for special needs adults.
Their impact on the local community revolves around their six pillars of care: education for special needs, residential lifetime housing, art & enrichment programs, family training & special services, vocational training & internships, and sustainable social enterprises.
On their website, discover ways to support TERI or take a look at their upcoming concerts featuring local artists.
Palomar College Aboretum / Edwin and Francis Hunter Aboretum
As part of Palomar College’s San Marcos campus, students and the general public can enjoy a diverse array of plants at the Edwin and Frances Hunter Arboretum. The Arboretum is open every day of the week: one hour before sunrise to one hour before sunset (check local sunrise/sunset times for hours throughout the year). A walking trail map is available on the Palomar College website (palomar.edu/arboretum), and the Arboretum is wheelchair accessible.
Admission to the Arboretum is FREE! A Parking permit is required, but may be purchased online using the ParkMobile app (parkmobile.io) for $1/hour. Use Zone # 7514 for visitor spaces.
As part of Palomar College’s San Marcos campus, students and the general public can enjoy a diverse array of plants at the Edwin and Frances Hunter Arboretum. The Arboretum is open every day of the week: one hour before sunrise to one hour before sunset (check local sunrise/sunset times for hours throughout the year). A walking trail map is available on the Palomar College website (palomar.edu/arboretum), and the Arboretum is wheelchair accessible.
Hours of Operation:
Monday - 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Tuesday - 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Wednesday - 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Thursday - 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Friday - 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Saturday - 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sunday - 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
The San Diego North Economic Development Council is a non-profit organization focused on fostering economic growth in North San Diego County. We collaborate with the public and private sectors to create a thriving regional economy through various initiatives and programs.
