Dang Gen, you hit the nail on the head. I was gonna offer some advice since I live in San Diego, but it seems like you know it better than me! Definitely dine at Casa de Bandini, that is my favorite restaurant in town and a must if you like mexican food. If you get out here and wanna try some really good Italian food (perhaps not as good compared to what you your used to) try Cafe Zucchero in Little Italy, the cannolis are amazing.
Brett