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Trump: U.S. will bomb Iran "back to stone ages" over next 2-3 weeks

Trump said the U.S. will strike civilian infrastructure if a deal isn't reached.

World

President Trump said in a prime time address that the U.S. was close to ending its war in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Iran" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" data-vars-content-id="6feb93ab-4c2e-43d4-b345-e51cf017df72" data-vars-headline="Trump: U.S. will bomb Iran &quot;back to stone ages&quot; over next 2-3 weeks" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" target="_self">Iran</a> but would spend the next two to three weeks bombing the country &quot;back to the stone ages.&quot;The big picture: Trump said that if a deal to end the war cannot be reached, the U.S. would bomb all of Iran&#x27;s power plants and its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="oil " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/energy-climate/oil-companies" data-vars-content-id="6feb93ab-4c2e-43d4-b345-e51cf017df72" data-vars-headline="Trump: U.S. will bomb Iran &quot;back to stone ages&quot; over next 2-3 weeks" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/energy-climate/oil-companies" target="_self">oil </a>fields, moves that would have devastating consequences for Iran&#x27;s civilian population and the future of the country, while likely inciting retaliation on America&#x27;s allies in the region.

Exclusive: Trump's DOJ says he's not required to turn over official records

Trump was indicted after his first term for failing to turn over some documents when he left office.

Politics & Policy

President <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trump&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="404c63c9-15d1-4b8a-a2a2-4a52fb9c17ee" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: Trump&#x27;s DOJ says he&#x27;s not required to turn over official records" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">Trump&#x27;s</a> Justice Department has concluded that a federal law requiring presidential records to be turned over to the government is unconstitutional, a senior White House official tells Axios.Why it matters: The finding is an indication Trump will be reluctant to give all of his official records to the National Archives at the end of his term, as presidents have done for nearly a half-century under the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Presidential Records Act" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2022/08/09/trump-presidential-records-fbi-warrant" data-vars-content-id="404c63c9-15d1-4b8a-a2a2-4a52fb9c17ee" data-vars-headline="Exclusive: Trump&#x27;s DOJ says he&#x27;s not required to turn over official records" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2022/08/09/trump-presidential-records-fbi-warrant" target="_self">Presidential Records Act</a> of 1978.

Republicans announce plan to end record-long DHS shutdown

House Speaker Mike Johnson Johnson on Friday called the Senate bill a "joke."

House Speaker <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Mike Johnson" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/31/mike-johnson-dhs-funding-trump" data-vars-content-id="911153c5-4dc2-4f6f-97b6-b992f8ed10d5" data-vars-headline="Republicans announce plan to end record-long DHS shutdown" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/31/mike-johnson-dhs-funding-trump" target="_self">Mike Johnson</a> (R-La.) and Senate Majority Leader <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="John Thune " data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/16/john-thune-government-shutdown-reopen" data-vars-content-id="911153c5-4dc2-4f6f-97b6-b992f8ed10d5" data-vars-headline="Republicans announce plan to end record-long DHS shutdown" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/16/john-thune-government-shutdown-reopen" target="_self">John Thune </a>(R-S.D.) said Wednesday they&#x27;ll advance a plan to fund the Department of Homeland Security — excluding ICE and CBP— with those agencies deferred to a later reconciliation bill.Why it matters: House Republicans just five days ago rejected that approach, with some <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="vowing" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/27/mike-johnson-dhs-funding-freedom-caucus" data-vars-content-id="911153c5-4dc2-4f6f-97b6-b992f8ed10d5" data-vars-headline="Republicans announce plan to end record-long DHS shutdown" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/27/mike-johnson-dhs-funding-freedom-caucus" target="_self">vowing</a> to never support a DHS funding package without money for ICE and CBP.

Artemis II successfully launches for historic Moon mission

The launch will carry humans as far as they've journeyed since the Apollo days.

Science

NASA&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Artemis II Moon mission" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2026/03/16/nasa-artemis-mission-changes-2028-moon-landing-sls" data-vars-content-id="352258a3-43d2-48ab-9812-689ac420f436" data-vars-headline="Artemis II successfully launches for historic Moon mission" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/huntsville/2026/03/16/nasa-artemis-mission-changes-2028-moon-landing-sls" target="_self">Artemis II Moon mission</a> successfully launched from Florida&#x27;s John F. Kennedy Space Center on Wednesday afternoon at 6:35pm ET.Why it matters: Artemis II&#x27;s planned crewed lunar flyby is set to mark the closest humanity has come to the Moon since the Apollo days.

"The Axios Show": Jamie Dimon on Trump, running for office and Epstein

Dimon was reluctant to criticize Trump across a number of issues.

The Axios Show

JPMorgan Chase CEO <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Jamie Dimon" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/01/jamie-dimon-iran-axios-show" data-vars-content-id="2c913bef-5c25-4a77-b0df-8fdedf7399f9" data-vars-headline="&quot;The Axios Show&quot;: Jamie Dimon on Trump, running for office and Epstein" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/01/jamie-dimon-iran-axios-show" target="_self">Jamie Dimon</a> gave an impassioned defense of the Iran war, dismissed the idea of running for office and pointed at plans for his post-CEO future in an interview with Jim VandeHei for a new episode of &quot;The Axios Show.&quot;Why it matters: Dimon, who once served as chairman of the Business Roundtable, has outsized influence in the American business landscape.

San Diego planning No Kings protest for Saturday

A march at Waterfront Park is part of 3,000 planned events expected to draw massive crowds.

Politics

Organizers in San Diego are planning a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="No Kings" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/17/trump-no-kings-protest-safety-tips" data-vars-content-id="37e828b6-5051-4bcf-9583-ced59800b448" data-vars-headline="San Diego planning No Kings protest for Saturday" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/17/trump-no-kings-protest-safety-tips" target="_self">No Kings</a> Day of Nonviolent Action on Saturday, one of 3,000 events to be held across the country.The big picture: Progressive political groups, labor unions, and human and civil rights organizations expect Saturday&#x27;s nationwide demonstrations to surpass last year&#x27;s No Kings rallies in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="June" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/06/14/photos-no-kings-protests-downtown-chicago-trump" data-vars-content-id="37e828b6-5051-4bcf-9583-ced59800b448" data-vars-headline="San Diego planning No Kings protest for Saturday" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/chicago/2025/06/14/photos-no-kings-protests-downtown-chicago-trump" target="_self">June</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="October" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/18/no-kings-protests-october-18-turnout" data-vars-content-id="37e828b6-5051-4bcf-9583-ced59800b448" data-vars-headline="San Diego planning No Kings protest for Saturday" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/18/no-kings-protests-october-18-turnout" target="_self">October</a>.

San Diego Wave sign USWNT star Cat Macario in record NWSL deal

It's a homecoming for the international women's soccer star who grew up playing in Del Mar.

Sports

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="San Diego Wave FC" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2026/03/12/san-diego-wave-game-houston-dash-2026-nwsl-home-opener" data-vars-content-id="f30e3aef-2f64-41ae-b384-79c7cf9d983d" data-vars-headline="San Diego Wave sign USWNT star Cat Macario in record NWSL deal" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2026/03/12/san-diego-wave-game-houston-dash-2026-nwsl-home-opener" target="_self">San Diego Wave FC</a> signed U.S. Women&#x27;s National Team forward Catarina Macario in a record-breaking deal that makes her one of the highest paid players in the National Women&#x27;s Soccer League.Why it matters: The soccer star coming home to San Diego helps elevate the team into an NWSL Championship contender as it <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="rebuilds" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2025/03/14/wave-angel-city-game-2025-nwsl-season-womens-sports-bar" data-vars-content-id="f30e3aef-2f64-41ae-b384-79c7cf9d983d" data-vars-headline="San Diego Wave sign USWNT star Cat Macario in record NWSL deal" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2025/03/14/wave-angel-city-game-2025-nwsl-season-womens-sports-bar" target="_self">rebuilds</a> with international and young talent.<ul><li>Her <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="lucrative contract" data-vars-click-url="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/48224025/cat-macario-record-nwsl-deal-san-diego-wave" data-vars-content-id="f30e3aef-2f64-41ae-b384-79c7cf9d983d" data-vars-headline="San Diego Wave sign USWNT star Cat Macario in record NWSL deal" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/48224025/cat-macario-record-nwsl-deal-san-diego-wave" target="_blank">lucrative contract</a> has been reported as the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="highest-value deal" data-vars-click-url="https://www.sportico.com/personalities/athletes/2026/catarina-macario-contract-nwsl-san-diego-wave-1234887043/#:~:text=Cat%20Macario%20Signs%20Record%20NWSL,to%20join%20the%20club%20imminently." data-vars-content-id="f30e3aef-2f64-41ae-b384-79c7cf9d983d" data-vars-headline="San Diego Wave sign USWNT star Cat Macario in record NWSL deal" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.sportico.com/personalities/athletes/2026/catarina-macario-contract-nwsl-san-diego-wave-1234887043/#:~:text=Cat%20Macario%20Signs%20Record%20NWSL,to%20join%20the%20club%20imminently." target="_blank">highest-value deal</a> in the history of women&#x27;s professional soccer.</li></ul>

Five things to do in San Diego this weekend

From waterfront races to a downtown opera, here's how to make the most of sunny San Diego days.

Things to Do

The weather will be San Diego-perfect this weekend, and there are plenty of things to do.The big picture: Soak in the sunshine at outdoor events, or take in a little culture at the theater, or both.

7 San Diego concerts worth seeing

From surf legend Tom Curren to jazz at Balboa Theatre, here's what to see live in San Diego.

If you&#x27;re looking to dive into San Diego&#x27;s live music scene, start here.The big picture: From laid-back surf sounds to country to soul, there&#x27;s a lot to choose from over the next two weeks.

How San Diego's Get It Done app isn't getting it done

Some 72-hour parking complaints take more than 100 days to resolve, city data shows.

If you file a report through <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="San Diego" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego" data-vars-content-id="02cd9d4a-bb08-42c2-bd2b-4cb9c65a1145" data-vars-headline="How San Diego&#x27;s Get It Done app isn&#x27;t getting it done" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego" target="_self">San Diego</a>&#x27;s Get It Done app, you may be waiting awhile to get results, according to an Axios analysis of city data.Why it matters: The city routes many complaints — from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="off-leash dogs" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2025/11/05/off-leash-dogs-school-fields-san-diego" data-vars-content-id="02cd9d4a-bb08-42c2-bd2b-4cb9c65a1145" data-vars-headline="How San Diego&#x27;s Get It Done app isn&#x27;t getting it done" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2025/11/05/off-leash-dogs-school-fields-san-diego" target="_self">off-leash dogs</a> to cars parked on the street for too long — through the app, but San Diego had almost 85,000 open cases in its queue as of last week, making filing a complaint feel fruitless to some residents.

The push to make Chula Vista the next Hollywood

Producer Aaron Roberts says the space could grow into a major film and TV hub.

Development

Aaron Roberts said he&#x27;s well on his way to creating a 90,000-square-foot studio space in Chula Vista that could one day also become a sound stage for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="movies and TV shows" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/23/oscar-nominees-which-movies-to-watch-streaming" data-vars-content-id="aa952300-6232-4c1f-8cdd-bd8325f176aa" data-vars-headline="The push to make Chula Vista the next Hollywood" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/23/oscar-nominees-which-movies-to-watch-streaming" target="_self">movies and TV shows</a>.Why it matters: The Chula Vista Entertainment Center would create space for photographers, podcasters and digital creatives to work, and ultimately bring movie and TV filming to Chula Vista, Roberts told Axios.

What's next for Midway Rising

City leaders say the $3.9B Sports Arena redevelopment is still moving ahead despite a court loss.

Developers and city leaders aren&#x27;t giving up on the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Midway Rising project" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2025/09/25/san-diego-midway-rising-development-plan-vote" data-vars-content-id="35dc3dfb-d077-41df-a3e5-bf1476e48755" data-vars-headline="What&#x27;s next for Midway Rising" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2025/09/25/san-diego-midway-rising-development-plan-vote" target="_self">Midway Rising project</a> despite a recent <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="California Supreme Court ruling" data-vars-click-url="https://www.kpbs.org/news/quality-of-life/2026/01/06/midway-district-height-limit-will-remain-in-place-after-california-supreme-court-denies-city-appeal" data-vars-content-id="35dc3dfb-d077-41df-a3e5-bf1476e48755" data-vars-headline="What&#x27;s next for Midway Rising" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.kpbs.org/news/quality-of-life/2026/01/06/midway-district-height-limit-will-remain-in-place-after-california-supreme-court-denies-city-appeal" target="_blank">California Supreme Court ruling</a>.Why it matters: The city has been trying for years to get clearance for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the $3.9 billion project" data-vars-click-url="https://sandiegomagazine.com/features/midway-rising-redevelopment-project-san-diego/" data-vars-content-id="35dc3dfb-d077-41df-a3e5-bf1476e48755" data-vars-headline="What&#x27;s next for Midway Rising" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://sandiegomagazine.com/features/midway-rising-redevelopment-project-san-diego/" target="_blank">the $3.9 billion project</a> to move ahead, potentially remaking Sports Arena into a mixed-use development with thousands of apartments, shops, parks and a stadium.

San Diego's cheapest gas right now

While averages hit $5.85, a few stations still offer cheaper fill-ups.

Business

These days, it feels like you&#x27;re lucky if you can find gas under $5.50 a gallon, but there are still a few holdouts around town.The big picture: Gas prices have seriously spiked after the U.S. and Israel&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="strikes on Iran" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/02/3-us-fighter-jets-friendly-fire-kuwait" data-vars-content-id="969658ce-15eb-45b9-bca9-031906f3dc28" data-vars-headline="San Diego&#x27;s cheapest gas right now" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/02/3-us-fighter-jets-friendly-fire-kuwait" target="_self">strikes on Iran</a> late last month and have remained high as the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="war escalates" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/08/iran-war-oil-market-barrel-cost" data-vars-content-id="969658ce-15eb-45b9-bca9-031906f3dc28" data-vars-headline="San Diego&#x27;s cheapest gas right now" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/08/iran-war-oil-market-barrel-cost" target="_self">war escalates</a>.

States challenge "broadcast behemoth" mega-merger

President Trump has endorsed the mega-merger.

Eight states sued to block the massive <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="$6.2 billion merger" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/08/19/nexstar-tegna-6-billion-broadcast-deal" data-vars-content-id="24705b62-2b6b-4fa1-9c16-297ba7997dad" data-vars-headline="States challenge &quot;broadcast behemoth&quot; mega-merger" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/08/19/nexstar-tegna-6-billion-broadcast-deal" target="_self">$6.2 billion merger</a> of Nexstar and Tegna that could create the largest <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="local broadcast company" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/media-trends-membership/2025/11/08/nexstar-tegna-merger-fcc-ownership-cap" data-vars-content-id="24705b62-2b6b-4fa1-9c16-297ba7997dad" data-vars-headline="States challenge &quot;broadcast behemoth&quot; mega-merger" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/media-trends-membership/2025/11/08/nexstar-tegna-merger-fcc-ownership-cap" target="_self">local broadcast company</a> in the country by far.Why it matters: The deal, which would require lifting the limit on television station ownership, is a litmus test for the Federal Communications Commission&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="deregulation" data-vars-click-url="https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DOC-410147A1.pdf" data-vars-content-id="24705b62-2b6b-4fa1-9c16-297ba7997dad" data-vars-headline="States challenge &quot;broadcast behemoth&quot; mega-merger" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DOC-410147A1.pdf" target="_blank">deregulation</a> drive.

March Madness at SDSU brings big crowds and dollars

The Aztecs missed the bracket but earned revenue and exposure by hosting NCAA Tournament games.

San Diego State didn&#x27;t make <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="March Madness" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2026/03/16/sdsu-ucsd-basketball-march-madness-bracket-2026-ncaa-tournament" data-vars-content-id="bf9e1f95-cdab-40d7-8966-5f229e7a96ec" data-vars-headline="March Madness at SDSU brings big crowds and dollars" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2026/03/16/sdsu-ucsd-basketball-march-madness-bracket-2026-ncaa-tournament" target="_self">March Madness</a>, but the Aztecs&#x27; home court still made it to college sports&#x27; biggest stage.Why it matters: Hosting early March Madness games generates revenue for the university and local businesses, and boosts national <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="exposure for the SDSU brand" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2025/01/23/san-diego-state-university-applications-enrollment" data-vars-content-id="bf9e1f95-cdab-40d7-8966-5f229e7a96ec" data-vars-headline="March Madness at SDSU brings big crowds and dollars" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2025/01/23/san-diego-state-university-applications-enrollment" target="_self">exposure for the SDSU brand</a> at a time when students are applying to colleges.

San Diego scientists build brain atlas to help disease research

Salk researchers say mouse brain atlas could lead to earlier, more targeted treatments for aging brains.

Health

Scientists at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies in La Jolla have created a new tool to better understand how aging affects our brains.Why it matters: Aging is a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="major risk factor" data-vars-click-url="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31501588/" data-vars-content-id="426e72b4-ef43-4bb7-8f3f-f2a8e37179ce" data-vars-headline="San Diego scientists build brain atlas to help disease research" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31501588/" target="_blank">major risk factor</a> for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer&#x27;s and Parkinson&#x27;s that affect millions of Americans.

How San Diego is using AI — and what's next

From drafting emails to analyzing meetings, AI is already part of city operations.

City Hall is using AI for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="basic tasks" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/sponsored/the-push-to-modernize-government-with-ai" data-vars-content-id="a3060e9b-c119-4657-be98-bf959b2daeb4" data-vars-headline="How San Diego is using AI — and what&#x27;s next" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/sponsored/the-push-to-modernize-government-with-ai" target="_self">basic tasks</a> like summarizing emails and meetings and generating slides, but also has bigger ideas for the future, according to officials and records reviewed by Axios.The big picture: While many businesses grapple with how to use <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="AI safely" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/03/ai-race-safety-guardrail" data-vars-content-id="a3060e9b-c119-4657-be98-bf959b2daeb4" data-vars-headline="How San Diego is using AI — and what&#x27;s next" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/03/ai-race-safety-guardrail" target="_self">AI safely</a>, government agencies are also factoring in the need to protect public information and maintain human oversight.

Nonprofits partner to help seniors stay active and independent

Challenge Center's new adaptive fitness facility also connects seniors to social services.

News

Local nonprofits have teamed up to offer accessible exercise, in-home care and food programs all in one place for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="San Diego&#x27;s growing senior population" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2024/07/16/san-diego-age-old-65" data-vars-content-id="608a2c14-9923-4c53-86fd-a0a3e6b7407a" data-vars-headline="Nonprofits partner to help seniors stay active and independent" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2024/07/16/san-diego-age-old-65" target="_self">San Diego&#x27;s growing senior population</a>.Why it matters: These programs aim to help the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="730,000 residents over age 60" data-vars-click-url="https://sdscf.org/longevity-fund/" data-vars-content-id="608a2c14-9923-4c53-86fd-a0a3e6b7407a" data-vars-headline="Nonprofits partner to help seniors stay active and independent" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://sdscf.org/longevity-fund/" target="_blank">730,000 residents over age 60</a> stay active, social and independent, potentially helping reduce the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="burden of rising health care costs and food insecurity" data-vars-click-url="https://sdvoice.info/state-of-seniors-report-is-now-live/" data-vars-content-id="608a2c14-9923-4c53-86fd-a0a3e6b7407a" data-vars-headline="Nonprofits partner to help seniors stay active and independent" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://sdvoice.info/state-of-seniors-report-is-now-live/" target="_blank">burden of rising health care costs and food insecurity</a>.

How San Diego parents navigate soaring child care costs

From tax-free spending to help finding care, here's some guidance from parents and experts.

San Diego parents are spending thousands of dollars a month to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="pay for child care" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2026/03/18/san-diego-child-care-costs-map-zip-code-infant-preschool-rates-ymca?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axioslocal_sandiego&amp;stream=top" data-vars-content-id="f558f57d-bbeb-47cb-b628-8854d7725740" data-vars-headline="How San Diego parents navigate soaring child care costs" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2026/03/18/san-diego-child-care-costs-map-zip-code-infant-preschool-rates-ymca?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axioslocal_sandiego&amp;stream=top" target="_self">pay for child care</a> — if they can even <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="find it" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2026/03/18/san-diego-child-care-deserts-two-thirds-families-ymca-map?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axioslocal_sandiego&amp;stream=top" data-vars-content-id="f558f57d-bbeb-47cb-b628-8854d7725740" data-vars-headline="How San Diego parents navigate soaring child care costs" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2026/03/18/san-diego-child-care-deserts-two-thirds-families-ymca-map?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axioslocal_sandiego&amp;stream=top" target="_self">find it</a>.We asked readers and experts for tips on how to manage the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="rising costs" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2026/03/18/san-diego-child-care-costs-infant-preschool-prices-ymca?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axioslocal_sandiego&amp;stream=top" data-vars-content-id="f558f57d-bbeb-47cb-b628-8854d7725740" data-vars-headline="How San Diego parents navigate soaring child care costs" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2026/03/18/san-diego-child-care-costs-infant-preschool-prices-ymca?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axioslocal_sandiego&amp;stream=top" target="_self">rising costs</a>, and they offered some helpful guidance beyond applying for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="financial support" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2026/03/18/san-diego-child-care-subsidy-waitlist-7000-families-ymca?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axioslocal_sandiego&amp;stream=top" data-vars-content-id="f558f57d-bbeb-47cb-b628-8854d7725740" data-vars-headline="How San Diego parents navigate soaring child care costs" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2026/03/18/san-diego-child-care-subsidy-waitlist-7000-families-ymca?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=newsletter_axioslocal_sandiego&amp;stream=top" target="_self">financial support</a>.

Padres fans hit Petco Park for MLB Opening Day

Padres fandom returns to Petco Park as Opening Day festivities take over the city.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Padres fans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2025/09/23/san-diego-padres-clinch-2025-mlb-playoff-spot" data-vars-content-id="b3b02c04-091d-4c18-ab0d-6984abbfce94" data-vars-headline="Padres fans hit Petco Park for MLB Opening Day" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2025/09/23/san-diego-padres-clinch-2025-mlb-playoff-spot" target="_self">Padres fans</a> rejoice, baseball is back in San Diego starting Thursday.Why it matters: Opening Day is a citywide party that kick-starts the Padres&#x27; quest for a third straight <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="MLB" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/11/20/mlb-espn-netflix-nbc-rights-deal" data-vars-content-id="b3b02c04-091d-4c18-ab0d-6984abbfce94" data-vars-headline="Padres fans hit Petco Park for MLB Opening Day" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/11/20/mlb-espn-netflix-nbc-rights-deal" target="_self">MLB</a> playoff run.

California's national parks draw record crowds in 2025

Yosemite and Redwood National Park saw the biggest boosts in recreational visits.

Nearly 13 million people visited <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="California&#x27;s national parks" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2024/09/24/california-national-parks-free-entry-joshua-tree" data-vars-content-id="537b6f87-e9a9-4e6a-ada4-47300870c161" data-vars-headline="California&#x27;s national parks draw record crowds in 2025" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2024/09/24/california-national-parks-free-entry-joshua-tree" target="_self">California&#x27;s national parks</a> in 2025 — a record high, according to new National Park Service <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="data" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/03/17/national-park-crowds-visitors-2025-busiest" data-vars-content-id="537b6f87-e9a9-4e6a-ada4-47300870c161" data-vars-headline="California&#x27;s national parks draw record crowds in 2025" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/03/17/national-park-crowds-visitors-2025-busiest" target="_self">data</a>.Why it matters: People can&#x27;t get enough of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="California&#x27;s great outdoors" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2025/02/03/explore-act-biden-california-outdoor-recreation" data-vars-content-id="537b6f87-e9a9-4e6a-ada4-47300870c161" data-vars-headline="California&#x27;s national parks draw record crowds in 2025" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2025/02/03/explore-act-biden-california-outdoor-recreation" target="_self">California&#x27;s great outdoors</a>, even as the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="parks faced firings and layoffs" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2025/03/05/california-national-parks-employees-staff-fired-nps" data-vars-content-id="537b6f87-e9a9-4e6a-ada4-47300870c161" data-vars-headline="California&#x27;s national parks draw record crowds in 2025" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2025/03/05/california-national-parks-employees-staff-fired-nps" target="_self">parks faced firings and layoffs</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="price hikes via executive order" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/11/26/national-park-prices-tourists-trump-america-first" data-vars-content-id="537b6f87-e9a9-4e6a-ada4-47300870c161" data-vars-headline="California&#x27;s national parks draw record crowds in 2025" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/11/26/national-park-prices-tourists-trump-america-first" target="_self">price hikes via executive order</a> and a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="federal government shutdown" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/09/30/government-shutdown-2025-national-parks" data-vars-content-id="537b6f87-e9a9-4e6a-ada4-47300870c161" data-vars-headline="California&#x27;s national parks draw record crowds in 2025" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/09/30/government-shutdown-2025-national-parks" target="_self">federal government shutdown</a>.

San Antonio

César Chávez allegations spark reckoning over legacy

The ripple effects are already emerging in local governments, universities and beyond.

New <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="allegations about César Chávez" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2026/03/17/united-farm-workers-ufw-cesar-chavez-march-allegations" data-vars-content-id="fbbacd72-33ac-423b-9d3a-b85751c17ee1" data-vars-headline="César Chávez allegations spark reckoning over legacy" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-antonio/2026/03/17/united-farm-workers-ufw-cesar-chavez-march-allegations" target="_self">allegations about César Chávez</a> are prompting a swift and emotional reckoning with the legacy of one of the most iconic figures in Latino civil rights.Why it matters: Chávez, who died in 1993, has long stood as a central symbol of Mexican American identity and labor activism — a legacy now being reassessed, with ripple effects already emerging in local governments, universities and beyond.

Child care costs squeeze San Diego families and providers

Infant care alone can top $21,000 a year.

Finding affordable child care in San Diego is getting harder for parents as providers face rising costs to run daycares.Why it matters: The rising prices are piling onto <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="local families&#x27; growing expenses" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2026/01/26/san-diego-budget-deficit-fee-hikes-trash-parking-water-2025" data-vars-content-id="426bc27b-9946-48c6-b2ca-853dd64adafa" data-vars-headline="Child care costs squeeze San Diego families and providers" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2026/01/26/san-diego-budget-deficit-fee-hikes-trash-parking-water-2025" target="_self">local families&#x27; growing expenses</a> that make living in San Diego costly while <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="forcing some moms out of their jobs" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/02/women-jobs-rto" data-vars-content-id="426bc27b-9946-48c6-b2ca-853dd64adafa" data-vars-headline="Child care costs squeeze San Diego families and providers" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/10/02/women-jobs-rto" target="_self">forcing some moms out of their jobs</a>.

San Diego child care prices, mapped

Average weekly rates for infants and preschoolers range from $180 to $640 per week.

Curious about where your ZIP code lands for child care costs? Explore these San Diego County maps to find current prices.Zoom in: Rates for infants and preschoolers range from $180 to $640 per week depending on where you live, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="YMCA data" data-vars-click-url="https://www.ymcasd.org/community-support/childcare-resource-service/family-resources/choosing-child-care/cost-child-care/" data-vars-content-id="632d2062-3c26-433f-ab91-22edd0933bf6" data-vars-headline="San Diego child care prices, mapped" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ymcasd.org/community-support/childcare-resource-service/family-resources/choosing-child-care/cost-child-care/" target="_blank">YMCA data</a> shows.

UFW acts on allegations against César Chávez

The labor union says it won't participate in events honoring its founder.

The United Farm Workers says it won&#x27;t participate in parades honoring its founder <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="César Chávez" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2025/03/31/legislation-cesar-chavez-farmworker-national-historical-park" data-vars-content-id="f37bcfa0-e118-4c26-8fa2-e5d80698f185" data-vars-headline="UFW acts on allegations against César Chávez" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2025/03/31/legislation-cesar-chavez-farmworker-national-historical-park" target="_self">César Chávez</a>, citing &quot;troubling allegations&quot; that Chávez abused young women, possibly including minors.Why it matters: The allegations raise serious concerns about harm possibly done to women and minors, and threaten to tarnish the legacy of Chávez, one of the most celebrated Latino labor leaders in U.S. history.

Indulge in a luxury movie night at The Lot

Reclining seats, cocktails and full meals elevate the theater experience.

On a hot summer (<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="or winter" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2025/09/18/san-diego-s-summers-are-getting-longer" data-vars-content-id="f0d4000c-44b1-47bb-8d86-e02c76606629" data-vars-headline="Indulge in a luxury movie night at The Lot" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2025/09/18/san-diego-s-summers-are-getting-longer" target="_self">or winter</a>) evening, dinner and a movie at The Lot is definitely one way to treat yo&#x27; self.The big picture: With &quot;Project Hail Mary&quot; <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="shattering expectations" data-vars-click-url="https://variety.com/2026/film/box-office/project-hail-mary-global-box-office-shatters-expectations-1236696281/" data-vars-content-id="f0d4000c-44b1-47bb-8d86-e02c76606629" data-vars-headline="Indulge in a luxury movie night at The Lot" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://variety.com/2026/film/box-office/project-hail-mary-global-box-office-shatters-expectations-1236696281/" target="_blank">shattering expectations</a> at the box office, many of us are heading to the theaters, and luxury experiences like The Lot are ready to cash in.

More San Diegans claim Irish roots this St. Patrick's Day

Here's where to celebrate those Irish roots on St. Paddy's Day.

The share of San Diegans with Irish ancestry is growing.Why it matters: That means more locals have a reason to celebrate St. Patrick&#x27;s Day this year.

Inside Gaslamp's Museum of Illusions

San Diego&#x27;s new Museum of Illusions is meant to mess with your mind and create trippy photo ops.The big picture: The museum opened in Gaslamp last summer as an interactive space filled with optical illusions you can climb inside and explore.

Weekend events: St. Patrick's Day, cherry blossoms and comics

Watch top-tier soccer, surfers and comedians or the St. Paddy's Day parade.

This weekend is packed with fun events to keep you busy.Our top picks include St. Paddy&#x27;s Day, a cherry blossom festival, a surf competition, an artistic beer tasting and a night of musical mischief by big-name comedians.

New food arrives at Petco Park for Padres' 2026 season

New bites, local vendors and classic ballpark eats make baseball games a foodie destination.

The San Diego Padres 2026 season is here, which means <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new food options" data-vars-click-url="https://www.mlb.com/padres/ballpark/food" data-vars-content-id="50bc4ae6-5c7f-4cc3-99b4-b89fce6accde" data-vars-headline="New food arrives at Petco Park for Padres&#x27; 2026 season" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.mlb.com/padres/ballpark/food" target="_blank">new food options</a> for those who want to indulge in more than a Friar Frank at Petco Park.Dig in: Fans and foodies can try two new spots in the ballpark this season and new menu items from their <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="favorite local vendors" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2025/03/24/new-food-petco-park-padres-2025-mlb-season" data-vars-content-id="50bc4ae6-5c7f-4cc3-99b4-b89fce6accde" data-vars-headline="New food arrives at Petco Park for Padres&#x27; 2026 season" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2025/03/24/new-food-petco-park-padres-2025-mlb-season" target="_self">favorite local vendors</a>.

Coco & Jules' cookies are a seriously sweet treat

The bakery's freshly baked selection of gluten-free cookies changes daily.

Food and Drink

Shoutout to our readers for suggesting <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Coco &amp; Jules" data-vars-click-url="https://www.cocojulescookies.com/?utm_source=ig&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_content=link_in_bio&amp;fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnZEaJBiAXISsOqZdMaYBIFLAwOr5-FE2O9mhmgiL0NnsMJYIpQF9-KZwr6ZI_aem_qMECfSEpBCBOtD5xrcBSZw" data-vars-content-id="0d9caf1c-6cab-4239-87ee-5ce1cf0db822" data-vars-headline="Coco &amp; Jules&#x27; cookies are a seriously sweet treat" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.cocojulescookies.com/?utm_source=ig&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_content=link_in_bio&amp;fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnZEaJBiAXISsOqZdMaYBIFLAwOr5-FE2O9mhmgiL0NnsMJYIpQF9-KZwr6ZI_aem_qMECfSEpBCBOtD5xrcBSZw" target="_blank">Coco &amp; Jules</a> in Normal Heights on my mission to find San Diego&#x27;s best chocolate chip cookie.Dig in: This local bakery&#x27;s chewy classic chocolate chip cookie made with oats and sprinkled with sea salt is definitely a contender.

Why Bacari is one of North Park's hot new reservations

From Moroccan cigars to schnitzel and spritzes, Bacari's menu is built for a night out with friends.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Bacari" data-vars-click-url="https://www.eatwithbacari.com/" data-vars-content-id="40536d7e-14c9-47b0-896b-0674bf259202" data-vars-headline="Why Bacari is one of North Park&#x27;s hot new reservations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.eatwithbacari.com/" target="_blank">Bacari</a> quickly became one of San Diego&#x27;s buzziest <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="new restaurants" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/food-and-drink" data-vars-content-id="40536d7e-14c9-47b0-896b-0674bf259202" data-vars-headline="Why Bacari is one of North Park&#x27;s hot new reservations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/food-and-drink" target="_self">new restaurants</a> with elusive reservations when it opened in North Park in February.Dig in: The new LA-based Venetian restaurant and wine bar concept is breathing new life into a French Quarter-style building that&#x27;s been sitting vacant on 30th Street since <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Urban Solace closed in 2019" data-vars-click-url="https://sandiego.eater.com/2019/3/12/18262360/urban-solace-closing-solace-moonlight-lounge-north-park" data-vars-content-id="40536d7e-14c9-47b0-896b-0674bf259202" data-vars-headline="Why Bacari is one of North Park&#x27;s hot new reservations" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://sandiego.eater.com/2019/3/12/18262360/urban-solace-closing-solace-moonlight-lounge-north-park" target="_blank">Urban Solace closed in 2019</a>.<ul><li>Its Mediterranean-style sharable dishes make for a fun night out with friends, especially since the chef suggests two to three plates per person. </li></ul>

Little While's coffee and pastries are a new treat in North Park

The team behind Pop Pie Co. and Stella Jean's opened a new café inspired by moments of connection.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Little While" data-vars-click-url="https://www.littlewhilesd.com/menu" data-vars-content-id="13770877-a5ff-4556-a312-94bd9a1e6dd9" data-vars-headline="Little While&#x27;s coffee and pastries are a new treat in North Park" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.littlewhilesd.com/menu" target="_blank">Little While</a> in North Park wants to be the neighborhood spot where you don&#x27;t choose between <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="coffee" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2024/05/13/selva-coffee-terra-bella-nursery-point-loma" data-vars-content-id="13770877-a5ff-4556-a312-94bd9a1e6dd9" data-vars-headline="Little While&#x27;s coffee and pastries are a new treat in North Park" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2024/05/13/selva-coffee-terra-bella-nursery-point-loma" target="_self">coffee</a> and a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="pastry" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2024/10/15/sips-and-snacks-japanese-bakery-treats" data-vars-content-id="13770877-a5ff-4556-a312-94bd9a1e6dd9" data-vars-headline="Little While&#x27;s coffee and pastries are a new treat in North Park" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2024/10/15/sips-and-snacks-japanese-bakery-treats" target="_self">pastry</a> — you treat yourself to both.Dig in: The new café and roastery recently celebrated its grand opening, which drove a consistent line out the door on a Saturday morning.<ul><li>Spoiler alert: The globally inspired drinks and pastries were worth the wait.</li></ul>

Birria's boom fuels Mike's Red Tacos national expansion

The birria boom is fueling the expansion from local food truck to national franchise.

Mike&#x27;s Red Tacos opened its third San Diego location on Tuesday, but the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="local restaurant" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2025/12/16/best-dishes-cocktails-san-diego-restaurants-2025" data-vars-content-id="050fce91-99e2-4c67-a3fc-6a3576eadf39" data-vars-headline="Birria&#x27;s boom fuels Mike&#x27;s Red Tacos national expansion" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2025/12/16/best-dishes-cocktails-san-diego-restaurants-2025" target="_self">local restaurant</a> group is taking its birria national with a burst of new franchises.Why it matters: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="popular taco joint" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2024/02/06/best-local-taco-shops-san-diego" data-vars-content-id="050fce91-99e2-4c67-a3fc-6a3576eadf39" data-vars-headline="Birria&#x27;s boom fuels Mike&#x27;s Red Tacos national expansion" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/san-diego/2024/02/06/best-local-taco-shops-san-diego" target="_self">popular taco joint</a> that started as a food truck five years ago has more than 200 locations planned across the country over the next several years.

Eat lunch with elephants at Mkutano House

The new Mkutano House restaurant and bar has watering hole views.

You can have lunch with elephants at Mkutano House in the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.Dig in: The new restaurant and bar with African-inspired dishes opens Thursday inside the Elephant Valley exhibit.<ul><li>It offers a waterfront dining and drinking experience in Escondido with a watering hole that separates diners from the animals.</li></ul>

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