Where to Eat Near the San Diego Zoo

Serious Eats: Try the dessert lattes here, made with espresso, chilled milk foam, and flavored syrups.

Serious Eats: This coffee and tea house has quirky decor and drinks crafted with care.

Serious Eats: This popular spot for breakfast and brunch looks like it belongs in The Jetsons. The vast menu includes bennies, super-sweet pancakes, and lighter choices.

Serious Eats: The cozy back patio is a great spot for brunch. You can't go wrong with the osso buco eggs benedict.

Serious Eats: Hope you're hungry, the portions here tend to be huge.

Serious Eats: Bagel sandwiches and bagels by the (baker's) dozen are the main draw of this shop.

Serious Eats: Build your own personal-sized pizza at this fast-causal chain.

Serious Eats: The pizza is always a good bet at this Italian restaurant close to Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo.

Serious Eats: Don't miss the house-made tater tots at this comfort food-focused eatery.

Serious Eats: The happy hour specials at this fine dining spot are surprisingly affordable, and come with the same great views.

Serious Eats: This restaurant located in Balboa Park has great views from the back patio. Go for happy hour for the best deals on food and drink.

Serious Eats: Go here for frosting-laden cupcakes.

Serious Eats: For one of the city's best burgers, get the Shack Burger featuring a crusty, charred beef patty smeared with bacon jam and aioli and draped with melted white cheddar.

Serious Eats: Come here for paper-thin pies made with regular, whole wheat, or a gluten free crust.

Serious Eats: Though on the pricy side, D Bar is great destination for a dessert-heavy splurge.