San Diego's Latino Experience: Stories, Flavors and Places

As a longtime resident, I have had the privilege of discovering San Diego not just as a city, but as a living, evolving map of cultures, tastes and personal histories. I write independently about arts and culture, work for a public relations agency, and serve as an interspiritual minister. Each of these roles keeps me engaged with San Diego in new ways – whether I’m exploring a beloved landmark or stumbling upon a hidden gem tucked into an unexpected corner of the city. 

This series brings together some of the spaces, people and experiences that continue to surprise and inspire me. From the local culinary scene – where tacos and fine dining comfortably coexist – to the theaters, parks and spiritual spaces that give San Diego its unique rhythm, each piece offers a personal perspective on what makes this city so vibrant. 

Dining out in San Diego is a journey in itself. With such a rich blend of Mexican, American and global cuisines, food becomes a window into the cultural life of the region. I’ll share some of my favorite places to eat, from street vendors to sit-down restaurants, and what makes them special beyond the menu.  

This is San Diego through my eyes – layered, welcoming and always worth a second look.

(Lilia O’Hara brings a rich, cross-border perspective to every story she tells. A bilingual, bicultural journalist rooted in the San Diego–Tijuana region, she has spent her career exploring life on both sides of the border. Lilia worked for over two decades at the San Diego Union-Tribune, serving as editorial director of its Spanish-language publications for 13 years. In 2024, she was honored with the Jack White Award for Excellence in Local Journalism by San Diego State University. Her deep understanding of language, culture, and place has earned her international recognition, including invitations to speak at conferences in Spain, Argentina, Mexico, and the U.S. A founding member of the Spanish Editors Association, Lilia has also guided numerous authors through the editing process in both Spanish and English.

In this series, she turns her eye toward tourism—sharing not just destinations, but the nuances and lived experiences that make each place matter.)