The beginning of fall kicks off with the 14th annual San Diego Restaurant Week. The event features almost 200 of the county’s best kitchens offering unique dining experiences. The eight days are designed to allow you to try new places at bargain prices. Two-course lunches offer an entree and choice of an appetizer or dessert. Prix-fixe, three-course dinners range from $20 to $50 per person. Here are my suggestions in the lunch category.

Kanda Thai Cuisine, located in the newest hot food destination (the Midway area), is my $10 recommendation. Lunch comes with a choice of entree, soup, salad, vegetable roll, steamed rice and choice of dessert. The panang curry with shrimp and deep fried bananas were recommended by the server — and she was right. It’s a real bargain at $10. www.kandathaicuisine.com

Backyard Kitchen & Tap is in Pacific Beach. At $15, my suggestion is to bring a friend… lots of good food to sample and split. For two outstanding appetizers, order the buffalo cauliflower and blackened shrimp. Second course: Ahi tuna steak sandwich and the BKYD burger (a rib eye and brisket blend). It’s an eclectic menu with, of course, an extensive bar menu. www.bkydpb.com

Hash House A Go Go in Hillcrest is my $20 choice. Their motto is “Twisted Farm Food,” reflecting their take on classics. Once again, this is a place to share meals. You can’t miss with the smaller version of their famous stuffed meatloaf or the Midwest mac-and-cheese served with a blue crab cake. As a longtime San Diego favorite, it’s always crowded, so plan your visit with that in mind. www.hashhouseagogo.com

Prices do not include tax, gratuity or drinks. Reservations are not required, but be smart and make one if possible. For a full list of participating restaurants, menus, etc., logon to www.SanDiegoRestaurantWeek.com.

Next up

This month, I’ll be heading to the Adventure Travel Mexico (ATMEX) convention in Colima, Mexico. It showcases the best Mexico and Latin America has to offer in the way of travel: Nature, culture and outdoor activities… not just great beaches and weather. Various destinations, tour operators, attractions, etc., put their best foot forward to encourage visitors. The conference is sponsored by the Tourism Ministry (SECTUR), the Mexico Tourism Board (CPTM), and the host state, Colima. As a travel writer, this is my equivalent to a kid in a candy store.

Let’s go!

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