Garibaldi at San Diego Intercontinental offers drinks with a waterfront view

Driving the news: The waterfront hotel was recently named one of the best in the country by USA Today. It ranked 9th on the list, while the beachfront Hotel Del Coronado ranked 7th.

• The Intercontinental features rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, a rooftop pool with cabanas and this hidden rooftop, all with views of the bay and city skyline.
• The large patio with plenty of high-top and lounge seating overlooks the water and is home to an herb garden to get the freshest ingredients in the dishes and drinks.

The intrigue: Garibaldi's al fresco Italian restaurant and bar's design is inspired by California's bright orange fish by the same name.

What to order: The signature Italian Amphora Aged Negroni or the seasonal Fragola Frappe.

Go when: For brunch or weeknight drinks that turn into dinner.

Where to find it: 3rd floor of the Intercontinental at 901 Bayfront Ct.