Barrio Logan’s chill’n with artists and Chicano culture

Barrio Logan is one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in San Diego between its towering public art displays at Chicano Park, evolving gallery scene and array of authentic Mexican eats. Despite its recent growth spurt, longtime locals - including artists and small business owners - are keeping it real by preserving the neighborhood’s identity and charm. This weekend, Explore Barrio Logan starting with pints at Border X Brewing, fresh ink from El Pantera Tattoo and five more ideas in between.

Modern and authentic eats

New to the neighborhood is taco pub ¡Salud!, where a modern twist on T.J. street food and chill digs complete with low-rider culture memorabilia has made it an instant hit among locals and taco snobs alike. If something more traditional calls, there’s always the legendary Las Cuatro Milpas, for those willing to brave the line for some down-home Mexican grub. ¡Salud!: 2196 Logan Ave., saludsd.com.; Las Cuatro Milpas: 1857 Logan Ave., (619) 234-4460.

Visit Bread & Salt

This 1896-built, former Weber’s Bread Factory turned experimental art space houses multiple galleries that host regular events. Stop by from 5-9 p.m. this Saturday, Sept. 12 for Neil Shigley’s “Invisible Drawings and Prints” opening reception, featuring large-scale portraits of local homeless people, putting names to these often unseen faces. For more information on shows coming up at Bread & Salt this weekend, visit Facebook.com/breadandsaltsd. 1955 Julian Ave., (619) 851-4083.

Coffee roasters, before it was cool

Among several Barrio Logan roasters, Café Moto is considered a favorite in part for being around since 1990. Then there’s its selection of everything from espresso machines to loose leaf teas and everything beverage accessory related in between; with a café attached to this coffee roasting super store, it’s the perfect place to score goods for home, but before heading back, first chill in the afternoon shade with a specialty drink. 2619 National Ave., cafemoto.com. (619) 239-6686.

Ice cream in the park

With more extreme temps predicted for this weekend, chillin’ at a San Diego Bay-side park never sounded so good. Until you pass by Tocumbo Ice Cream (1900 Main St., tacumboicecream.com), where you should stop for some refreshing fruit sorbet before kicking it in the shade of the Coronado Bridge at Chicano Park; or enjoying a sunset on the Cesar Chavez Park pier. 1449 Cesar E. Chavez Parkway.

Do the Barrio Art Crawl

Every second Saturday of the month, a group of galleries and businesses stay open late during this self-guided tour and offer everything from special art exhibitions to live music, outdoor cookery and artist studio tours. Don’t miss Saturday’s “Live Art Show” happening at La Bodega Gallery (6-10 p.m.) where you can watch wood burning, wire sculpting and body-painting demos, among other art forms. For a list of participating businesses and a map, visit barrioartcrawl.com.
La Bodega Gallery & Studios, 2196 Logan Ave.

More neighborhoods to explore

Anza Borrego, Balboa Park, Coronado, Del Mar, East Village, Encinitas, Fiesta Island, Golden Hill, Hillcrest, La Jolla, Linda Vista, Mission Beach, Mission Hills, North Park: Part 1, North Park: Part 2, Ocean Beach, Point Loma, San Carlos, South Park, University Heights

Source: DiscoverSD