Nighthawk

On our list of the best special-occasion restaurants in San Diego.

Outdoors on the grounds of Coronado's Baby Grand hotel, Nighthawk sets its rock-formed booths and banquettes directly into the landscape under open sky. The kitchen, from the CH Projects team behind Born & Raised and Ironside, cooks over open fire — citrus, olive oil, wild herbs, sea salt and smoke running through a Greek-leaning menu paired with Greek wines and cocktails. Named for the Edward Hopper painting, the restaurant leans toward unhurried conversation over quick turnover, with weekend brunch served from 10 to 3.