GASLAMP QUARTER
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA
An Insider Guide
Curated by Hotels Above Par in partnership with the Granger Hotel, this pocket guide maps out the best of Downtown San Diego—from buzzy coffee shops to breezy bayfront strolls.
A sophisticated stroll through Downtown San Diego starts here. This curated pocket guide created in partnership with the Granger Hotel and Hotels Above Par maps out the best places to eat, drink, shop, and wander from your chic basecamp in the Gaslamp Quarter. Whether you ’ re craving world-class sushi, bold coffee, moody cocktail dens, or museums with local flavor, we ’ ve got you covered.
From Gaslamp’s buzzing nightlife to the elegant streets of Little Italy and the artistic treasures of Balboa Park, every recommendation has been selected with an editor’s eye for style and substance. So slip into something stylish and start exploring.
Granger Hotel: A Sultry San Diego Stay
Most people visit San Diego for the sunshine, beaches, and zoo, but the city offers out-of-towners far more than coastal charm. The Gaslamp Quarter San Diego’s lively nightlife hub mixes dive bars, breweries, and Victorian-era architecture. This historic backdrop sets the stage for the Granger Hotel. Once the 1904-built headquarters of Merchant’s National Bank, it later briefly housed animals for the San Diego Zoo before their official enclosures were ready.
Following a $30 million renovation, the Romanesque building was reborn as the Granger Hotel, a member of Design Hotels. Preserving original details while elevating the style, the property is now a guest-only oasis no restaurants, no local co-working spaces— just keyholders and their guests. The vibe is intimate and curated, a calming contrast to downtown’s buzz. Once inside, vintage and contemporary elements combine: an Art Deco mirror, a 1980s Philip North abstract, and the hotel’s original elevator cage refashioned as a striking entry light fixture. A stone elephant peeks from greenery near the lobby’s rose marble reception. Mosaic tile floors, low-slung seating, and midcentury lamps add character. With its warm design, storied artifacts, and thoughtful layout, the lobby sets the tone for an immersive, transportive stay.
A curtained lounge evokes the Gaslamp’s past with sultry, stylish flair: leopard carpet, rose velvet chairs, and nude silhouettes. Local artist Walter Redondo also keeps a studio on-site. Upstairs, 120-year-old doors, moody navy hallways, and storybook suites shine. Each room brims with character— fan-shaped headboards, peacock lamps, and custom curved armoires. With blackout drapes and layered textures, it’s easy to forget the revelry of the Gaslamp lurks just outside.
“You just have to meet her—she’s artistic , bold , and completely unexpected.”
Beyond its sleek accommodations, the hotel boasts one-of-a-kind amenities that set it apart explore more below.
01. 5TH & LOX
Begin your day effortlessly with 5th & Lox, Granger’s hallmark breakfast offering Inspired by the warmth of European hospitality, this morning experience is carefully prepared and delivered with simplicity.
03. THE PARLOR ROOM
This plum-toned lounge features swanky furnishings and bold, expressive art With a moody vibe and curated soundtrack, it’s ideal for beginning or ending your night—especially with a standout espresso martini.
02. OPEN ART STUDIO
Local artists turn the space into a living gallery, each offering a distinct vision. With rotating creators, the atmosphere stays fresh defined by a vibrant, ever-evolving mix of perspectives and styles.
Hotelier Highlights
Kevin Mansour, founder of The Granger Hotel, shares the inspiration behind San Diego’s swankiest stay—plus, a few insider tips.
WHAT WAS THE ORIGINAL INSPIRATION BEHIND OPENING THE GRANGER HOTEL IN SAN DIEGO?
“We were inspired by the beautiful architecture and location in the heart of downtown with great energy of the city. The story of the history of the building came out to play organically as we were designing the spaces. ”
THE HOTEL IS GUEST-ONLY. WHAT FEELING OR ATMOSPHERE ARE YOU AIMING TO CREATE?
“Privacy is the ultimate luxury and our guests crave exclusivity. We did this in a completely unexpected way in the heart of the Gaslamp quarter Nobody expected this and that was intentional The feeling of a member’s club without being too pretentious”
YOU’VE CURATED A RARE WHISKEY AND SPIRIT COLLECTION FOR GUESTS. WHAT CAN THEY EXPECT?
“We have some of the rarest whiskies and tequilas in the world. We want guests to feel like they’re visiting our home and enjoying a drink they wouldn’t find anywhere else. Soon, we’ll open a bottle shop to share this exclusive experience with the public.”
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BANKERS HILL & BALBOA PARK
Just north of downtown, Bankers Hill offers tree-lined streets and historic charm. Adjacent Balboa Park San Diego’s cultural crown jewel—features lush gardens, iconic architecture, and standout museums like the San Diego Museum of Art and the Botanical Building
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GASLAMP QUARTER
The Gaslamp Quarter pulses with energy, blending preserved Victorian-era architecture with a vibrant nightlife scene Trendy restaurants, cocktail bars, and entertainment venues line the streets, making it a go-to destination for upscale evenings in the heart of downtown San Diego.
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EAST VILLAGE
East Village is San Diego’s largest and most dynamic downtown neighborhood With its mix of lofts, artisan cafes, and breweries, the area exudes a modern, creative edge. It’s ideal for visitors seeking a forward-thinking, authentic urban experience.
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LITTLE ITALY
Little Italy blends old-world charm with modern style India Street is lined with Italian eateries, cozy cafes, and curated boutiques The weekly Mercato Farmers Market adds buzz to this walkable, sophisticated neighborhood— perfect for leisurely strolls and indulgent bites
5 MARINA DISTRICT
Bordering the bay, the Marina District blends coastal charm with polished sophistication. Sleek condos, waterfront parks, harbor cruises, and the USS Midway Museum make it a peaceful yet engaging escape just minutes from downtown San Diego’s livelier neighborhoods.
6 PETCO PARK
More than just a ballpark, Petco Park is a San Diego staple. With bay views, local eats like Hodad’s and Seaside Market nachos, plus grassy Gallagher Square, it’s the ultimate hangout—whether you ’ re catching a game or just soaking it all in.
Where to Eat (and Linger) in Downtown EAT & DRINK
Bites and Buzz to Try Nearby
Cafés
INVIGATORIUM Gaslamp
Cool, punchy, and made for the Gaslamp, this industrialstyle café has a funky edge. The nitro cold brew is smooth and strong, ideal for a mid-morning boost. Pair it with the fan-favorite breakfast burritos for a match made in heaven.
CAFFE ITALIA Little Italy
This longtime neighborhood favorite has classic trattoria vibes with a passion for coffee. They pour Sicily’s famous Miscela d’Oro alongside locally roasted Cafe Moto coffee for a perfect caffeine fix. The must-try is the Little Italy avocado toast, loaded with goat cheese, tomatoes, red onions, basil, microgreens, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Restaurants & Bakeries
IZOLA
Housed in a bright, airy loft, Izola looks more like a friend’s dream kitchen than a café. Croissants and sourdough are made with top-tier ingredients— Normandy butter, California milk, and free-range eggs then baked in small batches and served hot from the oven all day long. Everything here is mouthwatering, but the Brown Butter Caramel Knot is not to be missed.
East
Village
TACOS EL GORDO
Family-owned since 1972, Tacos El Gordo has been serving authentic Tijuana-style tacos for over 40 years. Their San Diego outpost opened in 1998 and has become a go-to for fast, delicious bites in the center of the Gaslamp. The adobada taco is one of the best–messy, mouthwatering, and absolutely worth the wait.
Gaslamp
AZUKI SUSHI Bankers Hill
Run by Chef Nao Ichimura and Kevin Alvarado, Azuki Sushi puts a modern spin on Edomae-style sushi lightly seasoned fish on vinegared rice. The vibe is sleek yet casual, and the oysters are a must.
EXTRAORDINARY DESSERTS
Little Italy
Founded by pastry chef Karen Krasne, this spot serves showstopping sweets like Black Velvet and the famous Dulce de Leche cake. It’s not all dessert—paninis, dips, and salads round out the menu with savory flair.
COWBOY STAR
The first of its kind in East Village, Cowboy Star couples fine dining with Western flair. Exposed beam ceilings, cowboy accents, and classic landscape photography set the tone, while the open display kitchen gives guests a front-row seat to the action. It’s polished but laid-back, making it perfect for a date night or private event.
RUSTIC ROOT
Rustic Root serves bold American comfort food with sides of rooftop energy and vintage flair. Leather booths, cheeky taxidermy, and skyline views set the mood, while the menu offers brunch, lunch, dinner, and happy hour every day. As for the star of the show? The Rustic Wagyu Double Smash Burger, of course.
Gaslamp
East Village
Cocktails
BAR KAMON East Village
A 1920s Taisho Roman-inspired craft cocktail bar hidden behind a secret door inside Asa Cafe and Bakery, Bar Kamon is East Village’s best-kept secret. The menu serves everything from Hojicha-infused negronis to classic favorites, all made with authentic Japanese spirits. Don’t miss pairing those drinks with great bites like chicken katsu sandwiches and crispy battered octopus balls
BORN & RAISED
Born & Raised is the spot to celebrate anything worth shouting about, mixing classic steakhouse vibes with an upscale, modern twist. The dramatic space, complete with soaring ceilings, leather booths, and vintage vibes, sets the scene for a night to remember. Tableside Steak Diane and Caesar service turn it into dinner and a show, while a vast vegan menu makes sure no one ’ s left out.
Little Italy
COIN-OP ARCADE BA
If nostalgia and good vib what you ’ re after, C Arcade Bar has you c This lively spot is packe to-wall with classic games and pinball ma alongside bars serving craft beers and cocktail also have a full men burgers, pizzas, and win well as daily happy hou specials to match Plu games are free on th Sunday of the month.
Gaslamp
YOUNG BLOOD
Young Blood is a hidden gem inside Noble Experiment jus head through a secret fridge door to get in. This reservation only spot offers a 90-minute personalized cocktail journe featuring three custom-made drinks. With only 30 seats and a cozy, vintage vibe, it’s an unforgettable experience. Jus be sure to book ahead!
East Village
NOBLE EXPERIMENT
Noble Experiment is a swanky speakeasy hidden behind a secret door inside The Neighborhood eatery. Just push the right side of the beer keg wall and step inside. There’s no menu—bartenders ask about your favorite liquor and flavor preferences, then craft a custom cocktail
Gaslamp
San Diego’s Best Live Music Spots
HOUSE OF BLUES
House of Blues is one of San Diego’s best live music venues, known for its great energy and iconic lineups—think Adele, Snoop Dogg, Soundgarden, and Mac Miller. With a 1,100person main Music Hall and a 250-capacity Voodoo Room, it offers an up-close experience no matter where you ’ re standing.
THE CASBAH
Little Italy
The Casbah is a music institution, in the scene since 1989, with live shows seven nights a week. It has a no-frills vibe and has hosted everyone from Nirvana to Vampire Weekend. It’s grungy, great, and perfect for music lovers.
THE RADY SHELL Marina
The Rady Shell is an open-air concert venue on the waterfront, offering bay views and a dramatic, shell-shaped stage. Catch the San Diego Symphony or touring acts, plus local food and drinks during the summer season.
Culture Corner: Balboa Park and Beyond
Balboa Park is San Diego’s cultural playground, where Spanish-style buildings, leafy trails, and sprawling gardens create the perfect backdrop for discovery. Stroll across the iconic Cabrillo Bridge, stop for lunch at The Prado’s sunny patio, then explore standout museums like the San Diego Museum of Art, the Fleet Science Center, and the Museum of Photographic Arts. Culture Around Every Corner
MUSEUM OF MAN
Housed in a landmark building with its iconic dome, this museum explores human history, culture, and identity through bold exhibits and ancient artifacts. Expect interactive displays, thought-provoking themes, and an experience as striking as the architecture itself.
Balboa Park
MUSEUM OF ILLUSIONS
Step into a place where nothing is quite what it seems. Welcome to the Museum of Illusions—an interactive twist on the classic museum visit. Located in the heart of the Gaslamp, this 9,000square-foot spot features more than 80 optical illusions that flip your perspective and spark some seriously fun photos.
Gaslamp
BALBOA THEATRE
This restored 1924 gem feels plucked from Europe. Gold domes, dramatic arches, and a cascading waterfall curtain make the venue just as dazzling as the show. From Broadway tours to indie concerts and comedy nights, it’s one of San Diego’s most atmospheric and versatile spaces for a night out.
Gaslamp
SPRECKELS
AMPHITHEATER
Spreckels Amphitheater is Balboa Park’s beloved outdoor stage, known for free concerts and cultural performances year-round. Locals flock here for live music under the stars in one of the city’s most iconic green spaces. Bring a blanket, come early, and settle in for an evening of open-air entertainment and community charm.
Balboa Park
Hidden Gems to Uncover
GRAN HAVANA CIGAR BAR Gaslamp
Located in a historic building, Gran Havana Cigar Bar features a large walk-in humidor and on-site hand-rolled cigars. They also serve organic coffee, teas, gelato, crepes, and pastries. It’s a cool place to learn more, whether you ’ re new to cigars or a regular.
TAVERN+BOWL
East Village
Tavern+Bowl is where bowling meets bar vibes, with big screens, craft brews, and a kitchen menu that goes beyond basic bar food. Happy hours, daily specials, and a stacked beer list make it a one-and-done for game days or casual nights out.
An Editorial Guest Guide
Hotels Above Par is a digital and print publication celebrating the world’s most charming boutique hotels
This pocket guide was produced in partnership with The Granger Hotel, with editorial direction by Hotels Above Par Senior Editor & Creative Strategist Britney Eschelman Copywriting by Lauren Harano and Lindsay Cohn
Photography credits include The Granger Hotel (Matt Rzepecki), Bar Kamon (James Tran), Azuki Sushi (James Tran), and House of Blues (Sam Stofko). Additional imagery sourced from each establishment’s public Instagram account.
Read the full review at hotelsabovepar.com
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