Heritage: Asian & Pacific Islander

San Diego

Nowhere does nature live in harmony with man better than it does in San Diego, where sun-kissed sandy beaches and balmy ocean breezes are matched by a colorful blend of cultures. Contributions of its Asian and Pacific Islander residents abound in San Diego, including Cho-Liang Lin, artistic director of the La Jolla Music Society's world-famous La Jolla SummerFest; and Jahja Ling, artistic director of the San Diego Symphony.

The Asian Pacific Thematic Historic District, overlapping downtown's Gaslamp Quarter, has Asian shops, restaurants and museums. Stop by the Horton Grand Hotel to view the Asian Pacific Historic Exhibition that details Asian Pacific contributions to San Diego. The San Diego Chinese Historical Museum, a former Chinese mission, offers walking tours and exhibits ranging from Chinese Opera Costumes to Children's hats. Browse the fresh local produce at the Third Avenue Farmers Market and Asian Bazaar.

In beautiful Balboa Park, visit the Japanese Friendship Garden's koi pond and exhibit house for demonstrations on aspects of Japanese culture, and cooking. At the Mingei International Museum of World Folk Art, every corner of the world is represented, but of particular interest is the Mingei's extensive permanent collection of art created by Japanese craftsmen. The San Diego Museum of Art also boasts an extensive permanent Asian collection. While you're at the park, visit Mei Sheng, San Diego Zoo's 7-month-old panda. Nearby, at the His-Fang Monastic Temple, you can sample sacred teas at the Wellspring Teahouse, pay homage to your ancestors, and browse for enlightening fare at Buddha's Light Bookstore.

Throughout San Diego, find a delicious array of dining choices, from tiny storefronts to grand Hong Kong-style restaurants. Saffron Chicken, on India Street, is a top choice with locals for spicy Thai grilled chicken and Lotus Thai in Hillcrest offers home-style Thai cooking. On Convoy Street, Seoul Barbecue serves such delectable classics as short ribs and Korean barbecue; Phuong Trang's menu lists no less than 248 Vietnamese appetizers, soups, noodle dishes and main courses (trying to choose is half the fun!); and Jasmine Seafood Restaurant's celebrated Chinese fare ranges from sweet-and-sour pork to an exotic stew of shark's fin, crabmeat and fish maws. Up the coast, in La Jolla, Roppongi's chef, Stephen Window, presents Asian fusion fare - a blend of Eastern and Western flavors.

In El Cajon, Asia Business Center houses an extraordinary collection of shops, restaurants and businesses. Find great collectibles at Fortune City Bargain Center, try Vietnamese coffee at Nhu'y Vietnamese Restaurants, buy steamed sweet-pork buns at the Chinese Bakery, and shop for exotic spices and Asian ingredients at Vin Hung Market.

Highlights

• The Philippine-American Society and Cultural Arts Troupe (PASACAT) preserves Asian Pacific culture through Dance performances throughout the year.
• The third annual Asian Pacific Islander American Festival celebrates Asian Pacific American Islander Heritage Month with music, dance, performances and food, in Balboa Park on May 8-9.
• In June, the Philippine Library and Museum hosts Fiesta Filipina, to celebrate Philippine Independence Day with food, crafts and music.
• The Samahan American Performing Arts and Education Center presents traditional and Contemporary Filipino performing arts and produces the annual Philippine cultural Arts Festival in Balboa Park August 7-8.
• The Pacific Islander's Festival on September 25-26 offers a weekend of Polynesian celebration.
• The diversity of the Asian community is represented October 13-14 at the San Diego Asian Film Festival.