Explore North Park Magazine // Art Issue

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MAGAZINE // ART ISSUE

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DINE

DINE Whether you want a traditional take on your favorite meal or a daring new culinary approach, you can be assured that you’ll find everything you’ve dreamed of and more in North Park.

ENCONTRO

STAY STAY Staying in North Park ensures you’re in the middle of all the action, steps away from the dynamic nightlife, craft beer and foodie scene.

EXPLORE What will you find when you wander around this eclectic neighborhood? From curated boutiques, fascinating art projects, and live music, there’s truly a discovery for everyone who visits.

THE LAFAYETTE HOTEL

EXPLORE

SCAN THE QR CODE FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT WHERE TO EAT, STAY AND EXPLORE IN NORTH PARK.

GEOGRAPHIE

ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 3


THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF

BEHIND THE PAGES OF THE EXPLORE NORTH PARK MAGAZINE THE NORTH PARK MAIN STREET TEAM EXPLORE NORTH PARK ANGELA LANDSBERG // EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Angela Landsberg, a native San Diegan, grew up in the neighborhood of North Park. She began her position as Executive Director of North Park Main Street in 2011 after years of work in the community. Angela’s dedication to the revitalization of North Park, ability to build partnerships and her love for the community is at the heart of all that she does. Angela enjoys all that her city has to offer by spending time at the beach and parks with her husband, two daughters and dog Rosebud.

www.explorenorthpark.com

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Angela Landsberg

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Anna Gamboa

PHOTOGRAPHER Demi Johnson

JILLIAN WOLTER // EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Jillian Wolter has made San Diego her home for the past seven years. She has profound gratitude for San Diego’s healthy, vibrant community and the people who work hard to keep it that way. A graduate of the UCSD Urban Studies and Planning program, she is committed to strengthening communities and improving quality of life during her career.

RONI SEIBERT-KLEINHEN // FINANCIALS Veronica (Roni) Seibert-Kleinhen is practically a San Diego native. Growing up in North Park most of her life, gives her a unique perspective on changes that have occurred in this vibrant and distinct community. Roni’s expertise in managing grants and complying with rigorous state, federal and local non-profit regulations makes her an invaluable asset at North Park Main Street and the community.

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THE A7D CREATIVE GROUP TEAM

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Katherine Hon Patric Stillman Andy Hinds René Vidales Catt Fields White Carli Bazinett Haley Grosenheider Kelsey Prince

NORTH PARK MAIN STREET BOARD MEMBERS: President: Matt Gordon Vice President: Rich Geisler Secretary: Steve Codraro David Gamboa, Alma Rodriguez, Jason Noble, Garrick Oliver, Mario Sanchez, Paris Landen, Joe Balestrieri, Lynn Susholtz, Travis LeGrand, Brijet Myers and Patric Stillman

ANNA GAMBOA // CREATIVE DIRECTOR + PARTNER Anna Gamboa, Creative Director & Partner of A7D Creative Group, has been actively behind the re-brand of North Park as a San Diego destination. She grants much of North Park’s growth to the unconditional support and comradery from her fellow North Park business owners. Without thoughtfulness and creativity each business owner lends to North Park as a whole, the community would not be what it is today.

NORTH PARK MAIN STREET 619.294.2501 WWW.NORTHPARKMAINSTREET.COM 3076 UNIVERSITY AVENUE SAN DIEGO, CA 92104

DAVID GAMBOA // PRESIDENT + PARTNER David Gamboa is a Past-President, current board member and Chair of the Promotions Committee for North Park Main Street. His service with the organization began in 2009 and his continued commitment to the community is evident in the many hours of work dedicated to making North Park what it has become. David is the Co-owner and President of A7D Creative Group. After starting A7D with his wife, Anna Gamboa, in their home they moved the business to North Park in 2005 and haven’t looked back.

EXPLORE NORTH PARK MAGAZINE DESIGNED BY:

A7D CREATIVE GROUP 619.574.6878 WWW. A-7-D.COM 2867 UNIVERSITY AVENUE SAN DIEGO, CA 92104


ANGELA LANDSBERG, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF NORTH PARK MAIN STREET

North Park is the perfect blend of a classic, historic neighborhood infused with chic, hip culture. We like to think of it as chic meets grit. – ANGELA LANDSBERG

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A NOTE FROM

THANK YOU FOR TAKING TIME TO SEE AND READ ABOUT THE VIBRANT COMMUNITY OF NORTH PARK— a community that has made its way back to one of San Diego’s most desirable commercial districts. North Park’s history dates back to the 1800s when it was a place full of opportunity and ingenuity. Years later, people from all over the City visited North Park for its fancy dress shops, jewelry stores and the best department stores in town. As you explore the community, and this magazine, I’m confident you’ll be excited to see how this community is once again a place with bustling streets of shoppers, diners and people of all ages looking to experience a lively, historic urban community full of activity. Start with the many unique shops that are scattered throughout the neighborhood. They offer locally made products and chic vintage clothing and things you won’t find in any mall! Visit art galleries or even take a class at one of the local art studios. That’s just the beginning of our staggering selection of things to do. North Park also has more craft beer than any other place in the City. Sample some distinctive local beers or try some regional specialties from one of the hundreds of taps along 30th Street’s award winning restaurants. And speaking of restaurants, come hungry. From affordable small bites to higher end fillets, we have it all. Got a dog? No problem. Bring your pooch along and visit the outdoor beer garden where you can order food, drink freshly brewed beer and bask in the weather that this fine City is known for. Our inviting eateries span from quick and easy cafés, family friendly bistros, and classic old school bars to over 21 night clubs. If music or theater is your thing then you have to check out the Observatory North Park Theater for its amazing line up of diverse entertainment. North Park is all about the indi business owner. This is what makes our businesses special. Each place is distinct from its design to its offerings. And because North Park is known as one of the City’s most walkable neighborhoods you can park in the affordable parking garage and walk just about anywhere you want to go. If you decide to that you need some nature on your visit to North Park you’re in luck. This community sits right up against Balboa Park so you can walk off those calories on one of the great hiking trails just minutes away from the shops and restaurants. We know you’ll find our diverse population extremely welcoming from the coffee shop owners to the newsstand clerk. You’ll have the impression everywhere you go that you’ve been invited here. Our community is known for being a welcoming place and for that reason it continues to attract people who leave wanting to come back again and again. We hope you visit soon to see firsthand what makes North Park a community that stands the test of time.


@EXPLORENORTHPARK // #EXPLORENORTHPARK


LYNN SUSHOLTZ A HIGHLIGHT ON A LOCAL PIONEER

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| LYNN SUSHOLTZ IS AN ARTIST, COMMUNITY ACTIVIST, AND EDUCATOR. She is the Executive Director of Art Produce non-profit space whose mission is to build community and foster civic engagement through arts, education, and public culture. She owns Stone Paper Scissors, a public art studio in North Park that integrates community voice and vision into the cultural and physical landscape. Lynn’s art practice ranges in scale from small drawings exploring the cultural context and social histories of everyday objects to large-scale interactive environments. She employs a strong social engagement component that focuses on blending the intersection between virtual and physical communities. Known for her public art on the Vermont Street Bridge, the North Park Community Park Playground and local public school facades she has won 5 “Orchid” awards from the San Diego Architectural Foundation. The Citizen Artist assumes

Her most recent public commission from the City of San Diego titled, Grandmother’s Kitchen/

responsibility to participate

Grandfather’s Garden is a sculptural video installation tracing the history of immigration to the

in the cultural life of the

neighborhood of City Heights.

community through creating opportunities and interest in the

LYNN’S ART PRACTICE RANGES IN SCALE FROM SMALL DRAWINGS EXPLORING

civic process and public culture.

THE CULTURAL CONTEXT AND SOCIAL HISTORIES OF EVERYDAY OBJECTS TO

If we don’t do it, who will?

LARGE-SCALE INTERACTIVE ENVIRONMENTS.

An advocate for increased access to arts and culture, Lynn works locally to develop educational, social, and environmental resources for youth and families. Engaging youth and adults in the process of creative problem-solving, she teaches classes and workshops throughout the county in schools, cultural centers and at her Stone Paper Scissors studio. She has been a California Arts Council, Artist in Residence, and is an arts education consultant for UCSD’s Education Studies Department and the San Diego Unified School District. Lynn has exhibited her work at the Athenaeum Arts and Music Library, City Gallery at San Diego City College, Mesa College Art Gallery and was selected the State Assembly District 39 representative for the “California Contemporary Artists 2007” exhibit at the State Capitol in Sacramento. Her community engagement work at Art Produce was featured in 2012 issue of Public Art Review, “Food For Thought”. She recently co-authored “Community Development in the Context of Art: North Park and the Citizen Artist” for CultureWork Broadside documenting 3139 UNIVERSITY AVE. 619.584.4448 www.artproduce.org

her history of community activism and the development of Art Produce, and co-authored a resource book for teachers, “Object Lessons, Teaching Math Through Visual Art”.

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MIKE HESS BREWING

TOSTADAS

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SIMPLY LOCAL

WHAT’S INSIDE EXPLORE FEATURES 07 -

MEET LYNN SUSHOLTZ

10 -

NORTH PARK THURSDAY MARKET

14 -

VICTOR VING + LISA BEGGS OF THE GREETING TOUR

18 -

MICHELLE CURRIER, ARTIST

20 -

THE EVOLUTION OF ART

24 -

ARTS + CULTURE HAVE A PLACE IN THE NORTH PARK COMMUNITY PLAN

26 -

DENISSE WOLF, ARTIST

30 -

MEET THE MAKERS, LOCAL CRAFT MAKERS

42 -

A-B SPORTING GOODS + NORTH PARK ICON JOE SCHLOSS

46 -

BLAIR THORNLEY, ARTIST

51 -

ART’S ALIVE AT THE STUDIO DOOR

54 -

SDCCU FESTIVAL OF ARTS IN NORTH PARK

66 -

THE ART OF HISTORICAL HOMES IN NORTH PARK

72 -

BEER SCENE

80 -

THE HEROES OF 30TH + UNIVERSITY

84 -

ART IN THE PARK

96 -

THE NORTH PARK OBSERVATORY THEATRE

108 -

WAYPOINT PUBLIC

116 -

THE NORTH PARK WATER TOWER

118 -

NORTH PARK ARTISTS

126 -

JULIE WARREN WHY I PAINT NORTH PARK

CONTENTS 03 -

INTRO

04 -

CONTRIBUTORS

12 -

ART

28 -

SHOPS + SERVICES

70 -

BARS

86 -

EATS

122 -

EVENTS

123 -

BUSINESS LISTINGS

124 -

MAP + DIRECTIONS

127 -

BEHIND EXPLORE ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 9


SHOPPING AT THE NORTH PARK THURSDAY MARKET GIVES YOU ACCESS TO SOME OF THE BEST PRODUCTS IN SAN DIEGO WHILE IN A FUN, LIVELY ENVIRONMENT.

WRITTEN BY: CATT FIELDS WHITE

With the launch of the new North Park Thursday Market, the expanded weekly farmers’ market is now located in the heart of the neighborhood at 30th Street and North Park Way. Filling four city blocks, the year-round event fills 100 tents with local farmers, artisan food producers, multi-ethnic dining offerings, artists and crafters. No need to shop hungry: the market features a world of foods ready to enjoy, from Ibo’s Turkish Grill, 500F Gogi Korean food, Gourmet Tamales, pizza, poke, and panini’s, and North Park’s only Indian food from Masala Cottage. Nearby, local restaurants including West Coast Tavern, Waypoint Public, Urban Solace and Ritual Tavern celebrate with specials based on market ingredients. Weekly demos feature chefs from Cardamom Cafe & Bakery, Saiko Sushi, California’s Table, Tiger! Tiger! and more teaching shoppers to use the farmers’ bounty.

New later hours mean more community members and local chefs rely on the market for their weekly grocery shopping needs. Farmers offer fresh berries, sweet stone fruit, local citrus, leafy greens, crisp broccoli, squash and gorgeous flowers. Meats, cheese, and eggs come from local ranchers; uni, oysters and swordfish from San Diego fishermen. Dark Horse roasts their coffee near the market, and Bread Barn bakes nearby. Earth Equals uses the farmers’ seasonal fruit and greens for their smoothies, Farm to Fork does the same for their salads and juices and Witt’s Pickles feature locally grown cucumbers, beans and beets. Fresh food, live music, catching up with neighbors, greeting visitors, comparing discoveries and sharing recipes: North Park owns Thursdays at the North Park Thursday Market.

EVERY THURSDAY // 3PM - 7PM // 3000 NORTH PARK WAY NORTHPARKMAINSTREET.COM • IG: @NORTHPARKMARKET • FB: /NORTHPARKMARKET

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“GREETINGS FROM SAN DIEGO” MURAL 4223 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104 @GREETINGSTOUR MURAL BY: VICTOR VING


INTERVIEW WITH

VICTOR VING & LISA BEGGS WRITTEN BY: CARLI BAZINETT // PHOTOS PROVIDED BY: LISA BEGGS

Whether you are a North Park local, or visiting from out of town, you have probably caught a glimpse of the “Greetings from San Diego” mural in North Park. With its fast social media growth, the mural has taken on a life of its own and has become one of the go to places to get a photo in San Diego. We took the time to chat with Victor Ving and Lisa Beggs, the dynamic duo behind the Greetings Tour, about life on the road and what’s next for their exciting cross country road trip.

Carli Bazinett: Has traveling always been a passion of yours? What made you decide to road trip through the states? GREETINGS TOUR: Both of us have always been into exploring

CB: What made you decide on North Park in San Diego? What do you think of the art scene here? GT: Victor’s childhood friend from New York, who now lives in

CB: How has this project impacted your life? GT: Living in New York City, you feel like you are in the center of

North Park, connected us with Edwin Negado from Gym Standard. He eventually connected us with Beryl Forman from The Boulevard BIA, who helped arrange the wall at the Belching Beaver Brewery. It was quite the chain of people we went through, but it was also great to connect with so many locals as well. We think that the art scene in San Diego was great and actually got to attend a few shows while we were out here. There’s definitely a lot of local talent like Pursue, who helped us paint his Bunny Kitty character into one of the letters.

places we have never been before. In 2014, we were on a road trip in California and we simply didn’t want it to end. We came up with the idea of this project to be able to live on the road and explore the country. Lisa’s family also used to own an RV business called “Beggs RV” in Ohio, and we bought the motorhome from her brother-inlaw who’s still in the business today.

the world, but once you start spending a lot of time on the road, you realize that NYC is actually a unique world of its own. Crossing the country so many times made the United States feel a lot smaller, and unlike traveling by plane, you really get a sense of the different landscapes that this country has to offer. In addition to just traveling and taking things in, it feels good to really give back and add attractions and landmarks along the way. It’s a great feeling watching from afar via social media when the murals take on a life of their own after we leave. CB: What about the vintage inspired postcard appealed to you? GT: Lisa’s grandfather used to shoot images for Florida postcards in

the 50-60s. Victor started collecting these large letter postcards and using them for color/lettering references in his pieces. It’s great to be able to paint different scenes and styles which keeps every wall we paint interesting and challenging. This style was also a way to incorporate both of our talents, photography and mural work into a piece. We always try to push ourselves to do something better in each mural that we paint. CB: What is your process for choosing a city and location within the city? GT: Originally, we really wanted to have murals spread out

geographically across the United States. After the last mural in Orlando, I think we have reached that goal and are now looking to paint the cities that we personally enjoy. Currently, one of the cities we are still looking forward to checking out is Nashville, TN. Hawaii and Alaska are also up there on the list of places we would want murals in! 14 EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM // ART ISSUE 2016

CB: Do you have any interesting stories from traveling for the Greetings Tour? GT: Yes, a year’s worth of traveling stories! A lot of them involve

animals, but one interesting story happened right before we started the tour. We bought the RV in Ohio and drove back to NYC to pack our belongings and do the custom paint job. We parked the RV for about a week under the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. We took the train home and came back to move it daily for alternate side parking. One day, we couldn’t find the keys and looked everywhere. It turned out that we had left our brand new RV in NYC with the keys sitting there on the driver’s seat! No harm done, and we are still in the RV today. I suppose it would be pretty hard to hide a stolen RV in NYC, but we certainly got lucky there. CB: What’s your favorite city that you have visited for the Greetings Tour? Where is one you would like to go? GT: San Diego had good things happening! We’re talking about

subletting an apartment there this winter and possibly working on a project for Liberty Station when we are back. We are big fans of anywhere on the west coast really. CB: Where do you hope to see the Greetings Tour in five years? GT: An established amount of murals spread throughout the United

States. Hopefully on our way to having at least one in every state. We’ve talked about Greetings Tour going international eventually, but we are focusing on the states for now. FOLLOW THEIR JOURNEY // @GREETINGSTOUR


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QUEEN BEE’S ART AND CULTURAL CENTER STANDS PROUD AND TALL AS ONE OF THE ENTERTAINMENT CAPITALS OF NORTH PARK.

QUEEN BEE’S ART & CULTURAL CENTER 3925 Ohio Street San Diego, CA 92104

WRITTEN BY: KELSEY PRINCE

Queen Bee’s Art and Cultural Center stands proud and tall as one of the entertainment capitals of North Park. From hosting hundreds of nonprofit and community events to being a hotspot for every type of performance and artistic program, Queen Bee’s is a hub of art and culture. Originally built in the early 1900s as the Dixie Lumber Company, Queen Bee’s was not always considered a destination for artists and performers. The Dixie Lumber Company did, however, supply much of the wood that was used in creating the classic Craftsman homes found in North Park. From supplying lumber for those homes to hosting crafty events, this historic site will forever be a staple in North

Park’s artistic scene. Of course, this blossoming artistic scene would not be possible without the Queen Bee herself, Alma Rodriguez, who earned the “Queen Bee” title for her motivation, drive and need for perfection. After being “a buzz” since 2008, Queen Bee’s now hosts every event from the all ages and ever-popular Salsa Sunday, to the energizing and powerful Elevated!, San Diego’s largest and longest running spoken word and poetry open mic gathering. So dance, speak, sing, saunter, flirt and fly at Queen Bee’s Art & Cultural Center.

HOURS // MON: 2PM - 8PM // TUES: 12PM - 11:30PM // WED: 12PM - 12AM // THURS: 12PM - 11:30PM // FRI: 12PM - 12AM SAT: 11AM - 12AM // SUN: 9AM - 12AM 619.255.5147 • WWW.QUEENBEESSD.COM • FB: /QUEENBEESSANDIEGO • TW: @QUEENBEESSD

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ART ACADEMY OF SAN DIEGO RECOGNIZES AND CELEBRATES THE ARTIST WITHIN ALL OF US.

Art Academy of San Diego recognizes and celebrates the artist within all of us. Since opening their doors in 1998, they provide the education and opportunity to nurture the budding artist within. Whether your preferred medium is drawing, painting, printmaking, jewelry, stained glass, or mosaic, the Art Academy has classes and personalized instructors for you. The classes are taught by professional artists, who are passionate and knowledgeable about the craft. You can be sure that when you enroll in a class at the Art Academy, your art will improve tremendously and you will grow as an artist. These classes provide the creative outlet for emerging creators, in the epicenter of San Diego art, North Park. 619.231.3900 WWW.ARTACADEMYOFSANDIEGO.COM

FB: /ARTACADEMYOFSANDIEGO IG: @ARTACADEMYOFSANDIEGO TW: @ARTACADEMYOFSD HOURS // MON - THURS: 9AM - 9PM FRI: CLOSED // SAT: 9AM - 1PM SUN: CLOSED

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ART ACADEMY OF SAN DIEGO 3784 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104

NORTH PARK EATS

1 WEST COAST TAVERN 2895 UNIVERSITY AVE.

2 THE SMOKING GOAT 3408 30TH ST.

3 ENCONTRO 3001 UNIVERSITY AVE.

4 TRUE NORTH TAVERN 3815 30TH ST.

5 URBAN SOLACE 3823 30TH ST.

6 TOSTADAS 3139 UNIVERSITY AVE.

ARE YOU A NORTH PARK FOODIE? FOLLOW US @EXPLORENORTHPARK #EXPLORENORTHPARK


18 EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM // ART ISSUE 2016


INTERVIEW WITH

MICHELLE CURRIER WRITTEN BY: CARLI BAZINETT

One of the best things about the annual SDCCU Festival of Arts in North Park is the opportunity to showcase all of the up and coming artistic talent in the area. For years, North Park has been on the forefront of the art scene in San Diego. Just one walk around the neighborhood and you will see a wide range of murals, graffiti and galleries. Michelle Currier was recently named the winner of the 2016 SDCCU Festival of Arts poster contest. Her artwork can be seen on posters and banners throughout the streets of North Park.

Carli Bazinett: How has art helped influence your life? Was there a specific moment of when you decided to “go pro” and commit yourself to your artwork? Give us a little example of what that meant to you and how it pushed your artwork from amateur level to professional? Michelle Currier: Art has always been a priority in my life, but I

decided to go “pro” a little over a year ago. I recently graduated from UCSD, and was adjusting to the post-grad life and working full-time. I would post my paintings on social media and was getting really positive feedback. I eventually decided it was time to take the next step and to do some research looking into selling my work. I read multiple blogs about opening up an Etsy shop. I think it was through this process of researching and finally opening up shop that I started to notice my work evolve. I went from amateur to something more professional because it was no longer just an involved hobby, it was a business and I was setting higher expectations for myself and my work. It was scary and exciting, but really it just came down to focusing more on the quality of my work and the time I put into it. CB: Was there a moment or a decision that you made in your career that you feel was a personal success? MC: The moment that I think of in my art career that was a true

personal success and really was a turning point for me was when an organization called RAW Artists reached out to me to take part in their showcase. Up to that time I had not showcased my work publicly beyond online so it was very exhilarating to be sought out for my work and given an opportunity to display it at a formal event. Being apart of the RAW Artist showcase and organization was a huge door opener that led to several other showcase opportunities. It’s really what broke me out of my shell and pushed me to get my work out there. CB: What are you working on right now, or what are you currently obsessed with? MC: My current obsession is painting deer. In the fall I went on a hike

in an area called Lake Isabella and I found a deer’s shed horn. Soon after, I did an event just before spring where I showcased my work and did some live painting. I was inspired by my antler find because I chose to do a deer painting using my pop art style. I loved the results

and got a lot of positive feedback on the piece. The painting sold immediately, so I am currently painting more and experimenting with different color combinations. CB: Being from San Diego, do you feel there is a big art scene? Does anything about the city inspire your work? MC: I definitely think San Diego has an art scene, and it seems to

only be growing! I remember going downtown with my parents to Encinitas with friends, or even the airport and always admiring the art. Growing up in San Diego, I couldn’t imagine living somewhere without street art, museums and local businesses inspired by art. To me, art is one of the main things that makes San Diego such an amazing and unique city. I have no doubt in my mind that growing up here has had a heavy influence on my love for art. CB: I know you are currently living in Palm Springs. How did you hear about the SDCCU Festival of Arts contest? What made you want to enter? MC: I heard about the SDCCU Festival of Arts contest through an

old supervisor from when I was going to and working at UCSD. She e-mailed me the link to the contest and told me it had reminded her of me, and that I should consider submitting my art. After checking out the website and reading up on the contest, I was way too excited to not give it a shot. San Diego will always feel like home and I really wanted to experience the art scene there first hand. This contest and art festival seemed like the perfect way to do so. It was amazing how much people supported me in the contest. I feel very grateful to my supervisor for recommending it to me and everyone who showed me their support. CB: Did your artwork receive more attention after winning the SDCCU Festival of Arts contest? MC: I feel like winning the contest has definitely helped my

work receive more attention and has provided me with greater opportunities to market my art. Through the festival’s own marketing efforts, I have gained more exposure and hopefully vise versa, as I too promote the festival! Thus far it has been a pretty spectacular and gratifying experience. Seeing my work in public, along the streets of North Park has been surreal and amazing. I cannot wait to see what more comes from this opportunity! ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 19


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THE EVOLUTION OF ART DIVING HEAD FIRST INTO THE BLOSSOMING TRANSFORMATION OF NORTH PARK THROUGH THE YEARS.

WRITTEN BY: KELSEY PRINCE

AS HOME TO ARTISTS, architects, scholars, writers and designers, North Park serves as a hub for the creative individual. American Craftsman-style homes line the quaint neighborhood streets, serving as reminders that the neighborhood is rich in architectural history and quite literally a “craft” capital in San Diego. Of course, if it weren’t for the locals that inhabit the neighborhood, North Park would not be the eccentric artistic destination it is today. In the 1990s, North Park’s business corridor was on the decline. Due to the decline, community activists decided to encourage a sense of public culture and created the Art and Design Committee in the late ‘90s. By 1998, North Park’s business district was redeveloped and repurposed into an economic generator. With cultural development not part of the national direction, North Park was well ahead of the rest of the country.

By 2004, North Park felt another influx of artists. However, this time, the population increase in the neighborhood was unexpected. After Petco Park was built in downtown San Diego, many designers inhabiting the area around the new ball park were displaced and encouraged by local business owners and artists to move “up the hill” to the blossoming artist community. 20 EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM // ART ISSUE 2016

With this new corral of artists, makers, movers and shakers, new projects broke ground. Among those were the famous North Park Theatre, now Observatory North Park Theatre, several art galleries, as well as publicly funded after school programs at the North Park Recreation Center... this all happened in the mid-1990s. After these projects were found to be extremely successful, the community received new bus stops, an improved North Park neighborhood sign, and several public art projects. Thus, art began literally jumping out from the galleries and onto the streets. Public culture can now be seen on every street corner and at every turn, from every angle and every perspective.

While some might look beyond 30th Street and University Avenue and see graffiti, true artists and art aficionados see a story, a journey, and a lifetime of arts evolved. Now referred to by Forbes Magazine as one of America’s “hippest hipster neighborhoods,” the neighborhood continues to attract the artist and designer, but also attracts the movie buff, the culinary creative, the young family and the couple who grew old together.


THE ART ACADEMY OF SAN DIEGO 3784 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104 ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 21


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PHOTOS PROVIDED BY: CORY IMMELE 22 EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM // ART ISSUE 2016

VISUAL URBAN CONTEMPORARY ART 3776 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104

VISUAL SERVES AS THE PRECURSOR TO SET ART INTO MOTION.

VISUAL is an independent and locally owned business established in 2009, and is located in the heart of North Park. VISUAL is a retail shop for art supplies, a gallery for urban contemporary art and serves as an art advisory to private and public art projects, including the VISUAL PUBLIC ART PROJECT. The gallery hosts monthly art exhibitions featuring San Diego’s emerging underground art scene. Since 2009, VISUAL has played a vital role in San Diego’s emerging art scene as more than just providing art supplies. The VISUAL PUBLIC ART PROJECT was founded in North Park and has worked with over fifty artists in five surrounding neighborhoods bringing art into the public space by creating miniature murals on utility boxes.

619.501.5585 WWW.VISUALSHOPSD.COM

FB: /VISUALSD IG: @VISUAL_SHOP TW: @VISUALSHOPSD

HOURS // MON - FRI: 12PM - 7PM SAT - SUN: 12PM - 5PM


THE STUDIO DOOR RESIDES AS AN ARTS INCUBATOR DEDICATED TO THE CREATIVE MARKETPLACE AND THE PROMOTION OF CONTEMPORARY ARTISTS.

THE STUDIO DOOR 3750 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104

Patric Stillman is a visual artist dedicated to keeping the spirit of artistic creativity alive in North Park. In his art, he explores the human condition through light, color and texture. His finished paintings are dazzling, innovative creations, and the art world has taken notice of his talent. In 2015, his work was exhibited at Musée du Louvre - Paris, SCOPE Miami Beach, Venus Studios Art Supply - Palm Desert, San Diego Pride, Space 4 Art and Media Arts Center San Diego. Stillman wanted to enrich the art community in North Park and support the artists trying to make a name for themselves. He had a vision for an arts center that encouraged innovation and

held workshops for artists to learn how to market their creativity. Therefore, The Studio Door serves as an integral center to the art scene in North Park. The Studio Door resides as an arts incubator dedicated to the creative marketplace and the promotion of contemporary artists. The storefront allows Stillman to balance the creative process with an in-depth knowledge of arts commerce for hundreds of artists. Stillman encourages the artists of The Studio Door, sharing his wisdom of the craft and industry, guiding them to grow as artists. In March, he won, “Mentor of the Year” from Professional Artist magazine, a recognition of the incredible guidance he is providing for the artists of North Park.

HOURS // MON: CLOSED // TUES - SAT: 12PM - 7PM // SUN: 12PM - 4PM 619.255.4920 • WWW.THESTUDIODOOR.COM • FB: /THESTUDIODOOR • IG: @THESTUDIODOOR • TW: @THE_STUDIO_DOOR

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These goals address the important role that public art and artists have in creating a desirable environment for us all.

1. Presentation of a broad range and high quality of cultural expressions for North Park. 2. Recognition and support of artists as essential contributors to the design of the environment and identity of place. 3. Facilitation of interdisciplinary collaboration among artists, the public, developers, designers, and architects. 4. Establishment of partnerships between the public and private sectors. 5. Integration of public art and cultural programming throughout North Park as a significant tool for reinforcing community identity. 6. A sustainable cultural ecosystem supported by a diversity of funding sources. 7. Preservation of historic places and buildings as a feature of cultural identity.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: northparkplanning.org

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The North Park Community Plan is a guide for how North Park will grow and develop over the next 20 to 30 years. One important section of the plan is the “Arts and Culture” element.

ARTS & CULTURE HAVE A PLACE IN THE

NORTH PARK COMMUNITY PLAN

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WRITTEN BY: RENÉ VIDALES


C H E C K O U T O U R N E W L O C AT I O N

3 1 2 0 U N I V E R S I T Y AV E - S A N D I E G O , C A 9 2 1 0 4 W W W. G A L L E R YA K A . C O M | 6 1 9 . 2 8 0 . 0 2 5 2

[ T W I T T E R | F A C E B O O K | I N S TA G R A M | P I N T E R E S T ] @ G A L L E R YA K A ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 25


INTERVIEW WITH

DENISSE WOLF WRITTEN BY: CARLI BAZINETT

Denisse Wolf is a celebrated artist within San Diego and the North Park community. She contributed an outstanding art piece for the 2015 SDCCU Festival of Arts in North Park and was selected as the featured artist. Her banners were seen throughout the community with tremendous accolade. Denisse recently opened a studio in North Park where she gathers inspiration from the urban art scene and community. We jumped at the opportunity to ask her a couple of questions and get to know a little more about her and to see how she finds inspiration from the North Park community.

Carli Bazinett: Tell me a little bit about when you decided to go “pro” in the sense of when did you decide to dedicate yourself to your art. Denisse Wolf: This whole career as an artist happened so organically

with no expectations. I went through something very difficult in my life that made me turn to art, through painting. I don’t think I have ever done anything that has made me feel so surprisingly free. I found myself through art. I took a total of one drawing class in my life when I studied to be a graphic designer, so considering I am a self-taught artist, it took me a while to believe I could do this as a profession. I decided to do this on a more serious note, when I started selling my pieces and getting commissioned. Everything started falling into place when I got out of the way and believed in myself. CB: Do you remember the first painting you did that you were really proud of? That painting that made you say, ‘Yes, this is my calling; I am an artist’. DW: I remember when I did a large painting of a WWII Soldier, I

just really loved the image I found in a book, so I decided to paint it. I still didn’t think of myself as an “artist,” but I did wonder why I hadn’t done this before. My husband asked me why I hadn’t told him that I could paint, and I didn’t really know I could either. I sold that painting not too long after, and I took it as a validation and an encouraging sign to move forward. CB: Was there a moment or a decision you made in your career that you feel was a personal success? DW: I tend to be really hard on myself, especially when it has my

name on it. When I decided to dedicate myself to being a full on artist, I considered that a moment of personal success. I was recently invited to paint a piece for the NBA All Star Game, and all of the players received a print of mine. CB: What are you working on right now, or what are you currently obsessed with? DW: I am luckily swamped with commissioned work until the end

it is of my dog Celia. It signifies much more than just a painting, it represents growth and the day I found myself. CB: San Diego is a big city, why did you choose North Park to live in? DW: There is a nook and cranny for everyone’s lifestyle in San Diego;

for me it was North Park. It offers the right amount of urban as it does the sense of community. It is a great place to be a part of. CB: What about North Park inspires you? DW: I love the culture and the creativity flow around these parts of

the city. North Park is a community that is continuously changing and it embraces its resources, including art and local businesses. Knowing that I am part of this, encourages me to create and grow. CB: How has opening a studio changed your life? DW: I’m very excited to open up my first public studio. This

changes things quite a bit. The pressure is on (in the very best way possible). It symbolizes a rather important stepping stone in my artistic career. It means I’m doing something right and my voice is being heard. CB: Did your artwork receive more attention after winning the SDCCU Festival of Arts contest? What kind of opportunities did winning the contest open up? DW: Winning the SDCCU Festival of Arts was so exciting! It was

just the best opportunity to grow locally in North Park. The Festival itself was also a great way to meet other local artists, vendors and business owners - it’s all about networking! CB: What’s your favorite part about North Park? DW: My favorite part of North Park is the community. I’m also big

on pets, so I love seeing everyone with their furry kids. CB: How has living in North Park inspired/changed your art? DW: What I notice about North Park artists is the diversity in

of summer. I’m so obsessed right now with my new studio in North Park. I’m so excited to bring and create new and different things!

styles. Everyone is unique; illustrators, fine artists, graffiti artists, contemporary artists, tattoo artists - all different and all awesome. These things encourage me to get out of my comfort zone.

CB: What’s the one painting you’ve painted that you will always keep? DW: I only own one piece of my own, it was my very first piece and

VISIT DENISSE ONLINE // WWW.DENISSEWOLF.COM OR CHECK HER OUT ON INSTAGRAM // @DENISSEWOLF

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DENISE WOLF ARTICLE FIX NAME ON ARTWORK

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THE UPS STORE 3245 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92104 1 block east of the 805 619.283.0004


MEET THE MAKERS WRITTEN BY: KELSEY PRINCE

DESIGNERS, COOKS, GARDENERS, AND CREATORS all call North Park home, and for some, their products do too. From companies that are sweet as honey, to those who have an incredible eye for design, these are the makers behind some of North Park’s favorite local goods.

GABRIELLE MADRID FROM PLANTILLY

Founded in San Diego in April 2014, Gabrielle was motivated to start Plantilly to bring more affordable tillandsia pieces to others. “My boss once bought me a tilly globe. When it was time for watering, I looked at the care instructions that also happened to give a background on tillandsias and how they shouldn’t need dirt. I got excited and wanted to buy more, but was taken aback by how pricey I was finding them. I decided to start selling them at more reasonable prices. I feel like it’s easier for people to try something out if it’s cheaper, rather than buy an expensive plant and kill it, and feel like they lost out.” BRANDON HUBBARD FROM INKREDIBLEDESIGN

INKredibleDESIGN is the culmination of work by Brandon Hubbard. He is a local artist and photographer based out of San Diego, whose work branches from small pen and ink illustrations and watercolors, to large-scale installations in office spaces, breweries and homes. Brandon started his own small business in May 2011 called Signs of San Diego, mainly structured behind his love for his hometown. Since then, he has lived and traveled abroad while documenting his travels at mytravelosophy.com; began his own portrait photography studio, shutterhubb.com; and most recently, created a series of hand drawn maps of United States and cities, along with a growing list of countries, seen on his Etsy shop, properly labeled “INKredibleDESIGN”. LINDSEY YURIKO WARRINER FROM WARREN TALES

After being raised between London and San Diego, and earning her B.F.A. in Poetry and Publishing, Lindsey Yuriko started Warren Tales, an independent greeting card press that features handmade and printed products. Lindsey says, “I’d always been obsessed with all things paper, but became smitten with greeting cards in college and quickly started scouring shelves for the well-designed, well-made, and well-phrased. It became a fast passion and I began following small presses like bands—pining for a new release or limited print run—until finally, I was struck with the cockamamie idea of going into business. Originally a writer and working in children’s publishing, I traded in

my desk for design and a newfound peddling of puns. Now, Warren Tales operates as an independent greeting card press that features handmade and printed products.” LISANN KOPLIN FROM SAN DIEGO HONEY COMPANY

Owner Lisann Koplin has a passion for all things culinary. She fell in love with the company years ago, and couldn’t resist the opportunity to take it over this past December. She takes pride in the fact that the San Diego Honey Company sources only the highest quality local, raw, San Diego honey. All beekeepers have been honing their craft for an average of 30 years and love their bees. They respect the work that the bees do and the integrity of the honey produced. Lisann says, “The value of our local, raw San Diego honey is kept intact throughout our process. We cold pack all of the honey to maintain its raw honey quality. We take our time, slowly pouring this beautiful raw honey by hand into our bears and jars.” San Diego Honey Company ® was founded by Rachel Adams in 2011. Rachel created the Pollen Plus ® and San Diego Honey Company ® brands building a reputation for excellence and high quality products.

SAMANTHA SCHMUCK FROM REVIVED LIVING

After growing up as a competitive gymnast and experiencing extreme joint discomfort for several years, Samantha Schmuck decided to start Revived Living. When asked about her products, Samantha says, “In terms of my bath and body products, I really felt as though self-care is something that we have cast off to the wayside only to be squeezed into our schedules if possible (and usually something else comes up that we feel is more important). With our lives as busy as ever, taking the time to care for ourselves and make sure we are nurtured feels impossible. I love baths because it is a solid 20 to 30 minutes where you are able to close the door on the world and have some peace and quiet to yourself. I grew up doing competitive gymnastics and Epsom salt baths were a regular happening - I saw the benefits they can have on sore, achy muscles. This is predominantly why my line is centered around bath teas and bath salts, so that you can have not only a healing experience, but also a deeply pampering one as well. Living in Southern California, I do not have access to a bath myself so I love to fill up a little foot basin, stick in my headphones, and let the world completely melt away!”

INTERESTED IN THESE PRODUCTS? SHOP LOCAL AT NONE OTHER THAN SIMPLY LOCAL IN NORTH PARK, CA.

Left to right: Plantilly, INKredibleDESIGN, Warren Tales, San Diego Honey Company, Revived Living 30 EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM // ART ISSUE 2016


SIMPLY LOCAL 3013 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92104 ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 31


MISTER BROWN’S IS A RETURN TO THE CLASSIC GENTLEMEN’S PARLOR ATMOSPHERE, WITH HIGH-QUALITY SERVICES AND PRODUCT COUPLED BY A SOCIAL EXPERIENCE.

MISTER BROWN’S 3064 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92104

Mister Brown’s is North Park’s preferred gentleman’s cut and shave specializer. Their shop has a sleek, minimalist design cut with attention to detail making it the favorite spot for North Park gentlemen. The barber shop is a return to the classic gentlemen’s parlor atmosphere, with high-quality services and product coupled by a social experience. Mister Brown’s barber services include: cuts,

trims and hot shaves. The concept goes well beyond the traditional barbershop, to include an old school signature experience with a pool table, TV, intricate lounge, kitchen, and dressing room. Once the doors of the barber shop close for the day, Mister Brown’s hosts a wide variety of private events, making the spot not just a barber shop, but a social experience for the gentlemen of North Park.

HOURS // MON - SAT: 11AM - 8PM // SUN: CLOSED 619.501.8407 • WWW.MISTERBROWNS.COM • FB: /MISTERBROWNS • IG: @MISTERBROWNS

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Photo Provided By: Rene Salvador // Model: Nicole Sully

HUNT & GATHER 2871 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92104

HUNT & GATHER SPECIALIZES IN WOMEN’S & MEN’S VINTAGE CLOTHING, NEW CLOTHING, ACCESSORIES, RE-WORKED VINTAGE, ONE-OF-A-KIND DESIGNER PIECES, JEWELRY, TEE SHIRTS, RECORDS AND ARTWORK.

619.297.3040 WWW.HUNTANDGATHERSHOP.COM

FB: /HUNTANDGATHERSHOP IG: @HUNT_AND_GATHER TW: @HUNTANDGATHERSD HOURS // MON - THURS: 11AM - 7PM FRI - SAT: 11AM - 8PM SUN: 11AM - 6PM

Husband and wife, Lee Reynolds and Zoe Crenshaw, are both seasoned clothing designers with years of experience in the apparel industry. The power couple decided to put their fashion-driven minds together to create a boutique for the fashionistas of North Park. Thus, Hunt & Gather was born in May of 2009 as a result of their efforts, and has made North Park all the more stylish since its opening. The shop specializes in women’s and men’s vintage clothing, new clothing, accessories, re-worked vintage, one-of-a-kind designer pieces, jewelry, tee shirts, records and artwork. Hunt & Gather’s concept is to offer unique and original clothing from local designers and previous decades. They carry a lot of carefully selected, wild and rare vintage pieces that are on track with today’s high fashion looks seen on the streets of New York, Paris, and London. The atmosphere is fashionable and upbeat, without pretension or attitude. The boutique also celebrates the music scene by hosting instore parties with world-class DJ’s for an electric blend of style and jams. ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 33


HELLO BIRDIE IS A BOUTIQUE NAIL & LASH SALON SPECIALIZING IN MODERN, FUN NAIL ART.

HELLO BIRDIE NAIL & LASH LAB 3032 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92104

619.358.9875 WWW.HELLOBIRDIELAB.COM

FB: /HELLOBIRDIELAB IG: @HELLOBIRDIELAB TW: @HELLOBIRDIELAB HOURS // SAT - MON: 10AM - 6PM TUES - FRI: 10AM - 8PM

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If you want nails as funky fresh as you are, head to Hello Birdie. This hip salon pushes the envelope and elevates nail painting to an art form. Check this salon out on Instagram (@hellobirdielab) to take a look some of their creations, such as fox nails, galaxy nails, marble nails, mermaid nails and much more. Hello Birdie is known for their friendly, top-notch customer service in a uniquely stylish and refreshingly clean environment. The atmosphere is a blend of creative, innovative, and passionate professionals. The salon provides premium lash and brow services to make sure the lashes and eyebrows of North Park are looking just as good as their nails. After a visit to this boutique nail and lash salon, you’ll have the hippest nails and freshest lashes out of all your friends.


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VIBES

1 HOLSEM 2911 UNIVERSITY AVE.

2 THE GIRL CAN’T HELP IT 3806 GRIM AVE.

3 PIGMENT 3801 30TH ST.

4 SUBTERRANEAN 3764 30TH ST.

5 HELLO BIRDIE 3032 UNIVERSITY AVE.

6 THE LAB 3034 UNIVERSITY AVE.

7 SPLASH WINE LOUNGE & BISTRO 3043 UNIVERSITY AVE.

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WEEKEND

PETICURES BY TESS

PETICURES BY TESS 2818 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92104

TESS IS AN ANIMAL LOVER WHO APPLIES HER PASSION FOR ANIMALS IN EVERY SERVICE SHE PROVIDES.

The community of North Park loves their pooches, and Peticures by Tess is where they get pampered. Head to Peticures by Tess to get your companion’s nails trimmed, starting off with lavender aromatherapy and t-touch massage to help your pet relax. Traditional clippers are not used, rather your pet’s nails are Dremeled, hand-filed and buffed for a smooth finish. Tess is a certified Companion Animal Hygienist with over twenty years of experience. She pays careful attention to detail with high-quality individualized service to meet your dog’s needs. Your dog’s tail will be wagging with this stress-free, pain-free process designed specifically for your four-legged loved ones.

THE GREATNESS OF A NATION AND ITS MORAL PROGRESS CAN BE JUDGED BY THE WAY ITS ANIMALS ARE TREATED. MAHATMA GANDHI

619.733.1661 WWW.PETICURESBYTESS.COM

FB: /PETICURES BY TESS IG: @PETICURESBYTESS TW: @PETICURES NESTLED INSIDE THE ORIGINAL PAW PLEASERS, SAN DIEGO’S FIRST DOG & CAT BAKERY BY APPOINTMENT ONLY


THE ORIGINAL PAW PLEASERS, SAN DIEGO’S FIRST DOG & CAT BAKERY IS DEDICATED TO PROVIDING DELICIOUS TREATS FOR YOUR FURRY FRIENDS THAT WILL DEFINITELY EARN A TAIL WAG OR TWO.

THE ORIGINAL PAW PLEASERS 2818 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92104

Since 1992, The Original Paw Pleasers has been serving fresh baked treats to the pampered pets of North Park. All treats are hand crafted on site in their bakery. Their tail waggin’ dog and cat birthday cakes are perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just about any occasion! Custom orders are always welcome (photo cakes and cookies too!).

Don’t forget the home-made doggie ice cream in a variety of flavors. In addition to their bakery, The Original Paw Pleasers is also your one-stop pet boutique. They have the best selection of foods, toys, leashes, collars, and shampoos in North Park. They’re home to Peticures by Tess... Pets Welcome, Owners Optional!

HOURS // MON - THURS: 10AM - 6PM // FRI: 10AM - 5PM // SAT: 9PM - 5PM // SUN: 9AM - 3PM 619.293.7297 • WWW.PAWPLEASERS.COM • FB: /ORIGINALPAWPLEASERS • IG: PAWPLEASERS • TW: PAWPLEASERSSD

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AS ONE OF THE MOST BIKEABLE NEIGHBORHOODS IN SAN DIEGO, A FULL SERVICE BICYCLE SHOP IN NORTH PARK IS ESSENTIAL FOR PARTS, ACCESSORIES AND REPAIR SERVICES FOR ALL OF YOUR CYCLING NEEDS.

NORTH PARK BIKES 3022 NORTH PARK WAY SAN DIEGO, CA 92104 619.255.3100 WWW.NORTHPARKBIKES.COM IG: @NORTHPARKBIKES 38 EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM // ART ISSUE 2016


THE GIRL CAN’T HELP IT HAS JAW-DROPPING, UNIQUE CLOTHING THAT IS EXTREMELY RARE AND SINCE THEY HAVE STOOD THE TEST OF TIME, YOU CAN BE SURE THESE QUALITY PIECES WILL LAST FOREVER.

THE GIRL CAN’T HELP IT 3806 Grim Avenue San Diego, CA 92104

These days, many “vintage” shops just have clothes that incorporate trends from an earlier time, rather than truly older clothing. If you’re looking for a bona fide vintage shop, head to The Girl Can’t Help It. This boutique specializes in the Golden Age of Hollywood-1930s1950s, heralding a past glamorous era of fashion. Every piece of clothing, accessories, and jewelry tell a story and make bold statements. The jaw-dropping, unique clothing is extremely rare, and since they have stood the test of time, you can be sure these quality pieces will last forever. This award-winning shop came to our community from

London. The shop has made a name for itself in the fashion world, inspiring designers such as Ralph Lauren, Versace, and Prada, who would look to the shop’s impressive vintage collection in order to inspire their new designs. Actresses, models and entertainers would also look to the couple behind The Girl Can’t Help It to enhance and inspire their own personal wardrobe. The Girl Can’t Help It decided to leave London in order to seek the warm San Diegan sunshine, and was drawn to funky, eclectic North Park to set up shop in… and boy, are we glad they did!

HOURS // MON - TUES: CLOSED // WED - SAT: 12PM - 6PM // SUN: 12PM - 5PM 619.795.7169 • FB: /THEGIRLCANTHELPITVINTAGE • IG: @THEGIRLCANTHELPITVINTAGE • IG: @CAVEMANTEEKSVINTAGE

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THE GIRL CAN’T HELP IT 3806 Grim Avenue San Diego, CA 92104 40 EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM // ART ISSUE 2016


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A-B SPORTING GOODS + NORTH PARK ICON

JOE SCHLOSS

WRITTEN BY: KATHERINE HON // PHOTOS PROVIDED BY: GREG SCHLOSS

A-B Sporting Goods has anchored the southwest corner of University Avenue and Ray Street for more than fifty years. The store building at 3027 University Avenue was originally constructed in 1916 with two brick ovens, and leased to Merritt Bakery, North Park’s first bakery. The store became the home of A-B Appliance Company in the early 1960s, when Joe Schloss and his father, David Schloss moved there. But this was not their first location in North Park. A Schloss family store has been on University Avenue since 1939, when David started a radio store at 3022 University Avenue. In 1941, David took over A-B Appliance Company and moved it from 3834 30th Street to 3011 University Avenue. In the early 1960s, the store moved to its current location at 3027 University Avenue at the corner with Ray Street. Sporting goods were added to the mix of retail items and to the store name in the late 1960s. After his Navy service in the Pacific during World War II, Joe joined his father at the store, first as a salesman and later the owner, through the decades from years 1946 to 2015. Following the family tradition, Joe’s son Gregg Schloss has been at the store full time since 1982. Joe Schloss, age 88 and Little League coach for 60 years, died in November 2015, following a brief illness. He will be missed. He learned early to care about his community and was deeply involved in various North Park activities. As businessmen on University Avenue, he and his father enthusiastically participated in the Toyland Parade when the annual event, that started in the 1930s and stopped during World War II, began again in the late 1940s. Inflated balloon figures were part of the 1949 parade, and Joe remembered getting them set up the day before. He also recalled spending long hours decorating University Avenue for many holiday seasons. Some of

the best photographs of the 1958 Toyland Parade came from a well preserved set of his color slides. His father David played Santa in the Toyland Parade for nearly two decades, when 300,000 people watched from the sidewalks, and entries included real reindeer pulling Santa’s sleigh, camels courtesy of the San Diego Zoo, and equestrians from throughout California and Arizona. Local organizations, including North Park Little League and North Park Lions Club, benefitted from Joe being a member. As of 2015, Joe had been coaching continuously since the mid-1950s and helped establish North Park Little League in 1957. The northwest ball field at Morley Field was dedicated to him on May 13, 2000—when he had been coaching a mere 45 years—and the sign with his name still hangs proudly on the backstop. May 16, 2015 was declared “Joe Schloss Day,” and a special ceremony was held at Morley Field to honor him. His team and San Diego notables, including the San Diego Chicken, celebrated with him. NBC7 reported that typical for the humble team-player, Joe was overwhelmed and a little embarrassed by the attention, but thrilled to be there. He credited his longevity as a coach to many co-coaches over the decades, and said, “Sixty years have just flown by.” Joe eagerly shared memories and pictures whenever the North Park Historical Society needed them. He is immortalized on page 126 of the book, Images of America: San Diego’s North Park, which he was proud to show to his many loyal customers. The folding chair in front of the store counter is empty now, but Joe will always be there in our hearts, warmly welcoming us to his corner of North Park.

Although Joe & David Schloss have passed, their legacy lives on through A-B Sporting Goods with Greg, third generation Schloss, at the helm. Located on the corner of Ray Street & University Avenue.

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A-B SPORTING GOODS 3027 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92104 ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 43


STEPPING INTO OVERLOAD, YOU’LL BE GREETED BY HIP-HOP MUSIC AND AN IMPRESSIVE WALL DISPLAY OF THEIR INCREDIBLE SHOE COLLECTION, BOASTING ALL THE HOTTEST BRANDS.

OVERLOAD 3827 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104

Since 2000, Overload has provided North Park with trendy footwear, skateboarding goods, and streetwear. The shop celebrates the skateboarding lifestyle, perfect for any skater or any lover of skate culture. Stepping into Overload, you’ll be greeted by hip-hop music and an impressive wall display of their incredible shoe collection boasting all the hottest brands such as Vans, Adidas, Converse and

an ever changing roster of their latest releases. The shop also has women’s and men’s clothing in clean, minimalist designs, perfect for matching with the newest kicks. Overload is more than just a retailer, also serving as an event space and art gallery that participates in North Park’s art scene. Head to this trendy turquoise shop on 30th Street for a shoe and wardrobe update.

HOURS // MON - WED: 11AM - 7PM // THURS: 11AM - 8PM // FRI - SAT: 10AM - 10PM 619.296.9018 • WWW.SHOPOVERLOAD.COM • FB: /OVERLOADSKATESHOP • IG: @SHOPOVERLOAD • TW: @SHOPOVERLOAD

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“NORTH PARK” MURAL Illinois Street San Diego, CA 92104 @MAURODONATE MURAL BY: MAURO DONATE

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ings from north park greet

visit aesthetic savoir for clean, effective, affordable beauty services. services at a glance quick fix facial $40 brow shaping $20 makeup application $50

~

body waxing, lash services and other skin services available

aestheticsavoir.com 619.906.0955 3525 30th st. 92104

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SPOTLIGHT ON:

BLAIR THORNLEY WRITTEN BY: KELSEY PRINCE

We sat down with local artist Blair Thornley, the creator behind the larger-than-life North Park parking structure art, and learned more about her artistic journey.

Kelsey Prince: Thanks for sitting down with Explore North Park! Let’s get to it. Tell me a little bit about the journey that landed you in North Park. Blair Thornley: Ending up in North Park was somewhat accidental.

I had studied in Rome and New York, and then I became a freelance illustrator (beginning in 1982), mainly for editorial magazines and newspapers. My clients were all over the country and I could be anywhere. I was in New York City, then Boston. One of my best friends, Larry Ashton, had moved here. In 1992 it was cheap and it was easy to get around at the time. Our friend, David Jenson, owned Soho Tea and Coffee in Hillcrest, and made us food and coffee every day. He also helped us to get a huge studio space. The town was pretty quiet - no distractions from painting and drawing. Everything conspired to make it an easy choice, although I was planning to only be here for a couple of years. KP: We’re very glad you stayed. After exploring other mediums, you got into animation. What about animation really speaks to you? BT: Animation is about movement. I love to study movement,

gesture, body language - the way people move and what attitude or emotion they are conveying. Animation is just an extension of that. It’s really a drawing stretched out over time.

KP: How do you choose the subject of your art? Does any one subject specifically inspire you? BT: Everything can be inspiring - evening news, photos from The New

York Times, perspective, architecture, light, people, cars, California, American public places such as Laundromats, donut shops, mechanic shops, reflections in windows, and peoples’ gestures. Studying life everything you can observe in and about mundane daily life. Things that are not inherently beautiful. Nature is already perfect; it’s not as interesting to me as a total subject matter, and my childhood and personal history often slip in. KP: What was the inspiration behind the pieces created for the North Park Parking Garage? BT: Humor and readability from a distance. Each side pertains

to what happens on that block: shopping, parking the car, eating, traveling (on the University Avenue side) and performance (across from the North Park Observatory Theatre). KP: What is your creative process like? BT: I’m a little bit erratic. I work in intense spurts, but the most

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important thing is to find a way to work with my hands (creatively) every day. Sometimes I go out into the city with a sketchbook, or draw from newspaper photos. I believe it’s important to keep looking outside of your own experience, otherwise you’ll keep repeating yourself. Sometimes I put paper on my desk and start drawing or painting on it with or without a plan. I am always surprised by what comes out. I do not plan, and then execute what I’ve laid out because my hands will not do what I see in my mind anyway, and because the accidents are always what I like the most. I usually work on several pieces at a time, which keeps me from overworking one piece. KP: What role do you think art plays in society? BT: Doing art is how people see what’s inside of them. How can a

society feel grounded without that?

And then we are inspired by others’ expressions in art, as long as it’s done with sincerity and not just surface. Seeing others’ art makes me know I’m not alone. It lets me see others’ ideas or way of seeing from a deeper emotional level. How exciting! Society without art would be small and sad. KP: I completely agree. Do you have a dream art project – something you’ve always wanted to work on? BT: Dream project? I would love to do a painting or a sculpture,

which is gigantic or I would love to do a New Yorker cover.

KP: What is the best piece of advice you have been given? BT: My father said, “Whatever you love to do, find a way to make a

living doing it.” Or, that’s how I remember it.

KP: What do you have planned for the future? BT: I’m hoping to put some of my work into books. There is too

much to look through and it’s very hard to organize. I will always draw and paint, I know that much. Maybe more sculpture art. I need to work more, to work harder and to work bigger. I feel I may need to move. For one thing, San Diego is way too hot and sunny for me. I miss the rain and wind. I am always thinking of going back east, I may need the pressure of that culture. And if I were there, I may want to be back here. VISIT BLAIR ONLINE // WWW.BLAIRTHORNLEY.COM OR CHECK HER OUT ON INSTAGRAM // @BLAIRTHORNLEY


NORTH PARK PARKING STRUCTURE 3060 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92104 ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 47


PIGMENT HAS AN ENCHANTING SELECTION OF LOCAL ARTISTS AND ARTISANS. YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP FOR ART, FLORA, FURNITURE & THOUGHTFUL GIFTS.

PIGMENT 3801 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104

Walking into Pigment is like walking into a Pinterest board. The aesthetically pleasing boutique is filled with whimsical gifts, lovely pieces, charming knick-knacks and so much to be discovered. Wander around the store to become enchanted with the beautiful selection of jewelry, candles, planners, cards, and succulents. This curated boutique sources an enchanting selection of local artists and

artisans. Pigment is your one-stop shop for art, flora, furniture and thoughtful gifts. Have you always dreamed of making a terrarium? Pigment has a beautiful setup to make your vision come to life before your eyes. The boutique also has a photo booth so you can snap some pics to preserve the memory.

HOURS // MON - THURS: 10AM - 7PM // FRI - SAT: 10AM - 8PM // SUN: 10AM - 5PM 619.501.6318 • WWW.SHOPPIGMENT.COM • FB: /SHOPPIGMENT • IG: @SHOPPIGMENT • TW: @SHOPPIGMENT

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SLY KING FITNESS PERSONAL TRAINING

SLY KING FITNESS PERSONAL TRAINING 2935 Lincoln Avenue San Diego, CA 92104 CHECK OUT OUR NEW LOCATION 2936 Adams Avenue San Diego, CA 92116

SLY KING FITNESS IS DEDICATED TO HELPING SAN DIEGO REACH THEIR FITNESS GOALS, MAY IT BE WEIGHT LOSS OR IMPROVING ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE.

619.508.0250 WWW.SLYKINGFITNESS.COM

FB: /SLYKINGFITNESS IG: @SLYKINGFITNESS TW: @SLYKINGFITNESS

HOURS // EVERYDAY: 5AM - 10PM

Sly King Fitness is dedicated to helping San Diego reach their fitness goals, may it be weight loss or improving athletic performance. The training studio works outside traditional hours to ensure you get the training you want. They accommodate all clients to the best of their ability by staying open seven days a week with longer hours and competitive rates. You’ll find that just a few sessions with Sly King Fitness will have you much closer to your fitness goals than all those hours you’ve worked out in a gym solo. If you’re tired of spending countless hours in the gym, yet not seeing the results you want, it may be time to look to Sly King Fitness. With their private personal training studio, you’ll receive personalized fitness instruction and a specialized plan designed to achieve your goal and real results. ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 49


BRUNCH SPOTS

1 BREAKFAST REPUBLIC 2730 UNIVERSITY AVE.

2 WEST COAST TAVERN 2895 UNIVERSITY AVE.

3 URBAN SOLACE 3823 30TH ST.

4 RITUAL KITCHEN 4095 30TH ST.

5 THE MISSION 2801 UNIVERSITY AVE.

6 WAYPOINT PUBLIC 3794 30TH ST.

ARE YOU A NORTH PARK FOODIE? FOLLOW US @EXPLORENORTHPARK #EXPLORENORTHPARK

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NORTH PARK

NORTH PARK YOGA 3063 University Avenue Suite #100 San Diego, CA 92104

Q: There is a wide selection of yoga studios in North Park. What makes your studio, North Park Yoga, different? TIM SCHULTHEIS: Quite simply, I bring a quieter approach to yoga

instruction – a practice that is slower, and more attentive to detail and body alignment. There is already so much pushing in today’s world – we want everything bigger and faster. There is a nagging expectation in society to be continuously productive in our workplaces, which creates an environment of anxiety and competition, plus the seduction of power. This incessant drive places unrealistic demands on us physically and mentally, sometimes to the point of depletion. This often has people striving for acrobatic feats in their yoga practice. I find it a bit ironic that a culture that embraces the time-consuming process of a custom pour-over coffee, yet shoehorns a contemplative activity, such as yoga, into an agenda already bursting at the seams. That is why I move away from all of that in my teaching. Instead of reaching for heroic measures, which push our bodies to the limits of their capacity, I invite students to slow down and breathe. I encourage them to temper the impulse to push, and explore their boundaries of sensation while sustaining a steadiness to their breath. It’s a place where the inner challenges of a yoga practice are not superseded by externally driven expectations. 619.295.1190 // WWW.NORTHPARKYOGA.NET CLASSES // MON - WED & FRI - SAT: 9AM // MON, TUES, THURS: 5:30PM & 7PM


ART’S ALIVE AT THE STUDIO DOOR WRITTEN BY: PATRIC STILLMAN

“NORTH PARK AND THE ARTS GO TOGETHER LIKE MILK AND COOKIES.” - PATRIC STILLMAN, OWNER OF THE STUDIO DOOR

Patric Stillman, a local artist and creative entrepreneur, runs the North Park gallery and artist studios along North Park’s 30th Street corridor. Inside The Studio Door, creative entrepreneurs bustle in and out, walls are hung with diverse paintings and photographs by emerging professional artists, and interior windows allow visitors to peer into eight working artist studios. Tourists and locals alike visit regularly to shop, mingle, and discuss art as exhibitions change each month. The gallery has celebrated the flight of black birds in The Crow Show, the intersection of art and fashion in an exhibit simply entitled Fashion, and the regional arts exhibition 50 To Watch.

“Everything keeps moving steadily along,” Stillman said. “We’ve had good support from the visiting community of art lovers right from the start.” That community support was seen when Stillman was commissioned as a handful of California artists to participate in Milk Loves Art, a charity project produced by Got Milk? to benefit children living with cancer at Camp Ronald McDonald for Good Times. Through Milk Loves Art, Stillman painted a life-sized cow sculpture, which his fellow studio artists quickly encouraged him to name “Milkshake.” Stillman painted Milkshake in the storefront’s oversized windows, so the community could watch the progress from the sidewalk and offer support day and night. His artwork is expected to raise up to $5,000 in the project’s upcoming auction.

Each month, the Studio Door provides easy access to the arts with live music in the gallery, and popular Wine & Paint nights. In October, the gallery becomes the headquarters for Open Studios San Diego, a regional event that invites the public into artist studios across the southwest.

For Stillman and other artists’ continued projects, or to learn more about Stillman’s featured work at the Musee du Louvre in Paris and Scope Miami Beach, stop by the popular shop. The gallery is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 7PM, and Sunday from noon to 4PM.

View the website at www.TheStudioDoor.com to find the latest happenings.

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THE UNDERCARRIAGE IS ALWAYS THOROUGH, GENTLE, METICULOUS AND FUN, ENSURING YOUR EXPERIENCE WILL BE FLAWLESS FROM START TO FINISH.

THE UNDERCARRIAGE 3385 B 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104

There is a reason The Undercarriage has been voted best waxing establishment in San Diego since 2008. The Undercarriage elevates your wax experience from a necessary errand into a luxurious day of pampering. This fine waxing establishment transforms your wax into a classy, refined experience, with libations served upon arrival. The esthetician’s have over twenty years of experience and pride themselves in their craft, catering to both women and men, so you can be assured you’re in good hands. The Undercarriage offers waxes, brow shaping, anti-aging treatments, hyper pigmentation treatments, and pumpkin enzyme peels.

The Undercarriage fosters a fun, social environment. Why not make your wax a party by holding a waxing soirée with your girlfriends? They’ll treat you all to a luxurious day of pampering as well as complimentary appetizers and discounts. Partake in “Classy Wednesday,” by booking an appointment on Wednesday to receive 10% off any waxing services (Male Brazilian excluded), 10% off all PCA Skin Care products and 10% off Pacifica soy candles while enjoying a complimentary glass of wine. The Undercarriage is always thorough, gentle, meticulous and fun, ensuring your experience will be flawless from start to finish.

HOURS // MON - FRI: 10AM - 7PM // SAT: 10AM - 4PM // SUN: CLOSED 619.296.3929 • WWW.THEUNDERCARRIAGESD.COM • FB: /THEUNDERCARRIAGENORTHPARK • IG: @THEUNDERCARRIAGE

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AT THE LAB, THEIR INNOVATIVE TEAM OF HAIRSTYLISTS CAN HELP YOU TO DISCOVER YOUR IDEAL STYLE.

The Lab A Salon opened its doors in North Park in September 2008, and has been making the hair of the community all the more chic ever since. This modern hair salon infuses innovation into their practice, no matter what your vision is. Their experienced hairstylists can make it come to life before your eyes. Cut, color, blow-dry, style, makeup consultation, The Lab has the experts to make it happen for you. Whether you want something classic, edgy, simple or contemporary, you are in good hands. The Lab is a direct reflection of owner and stylist Adrianne Tolentino’s passion for the industry and her dedication to providing excellent service. She and The Lab team ensure that everyone comes in feeling welcome and leaves feeling gorgeous. Go ahead and pamper yourself and book an appointment at The Lab. You deserve it! 619.543.9952 WWW.THELABASALON.COM

FB: /THELABASALON IG: @THELABASALON TW: @THELABASALON HOURS // SUN - MON: 10AM - 4PM TUES - FRI: 10AM - 6PM SAT: 9AM - 4PM

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THE LAB A SALON 3034 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92104

SAN DIEGO LGBT

PRIDE 2016 SDPRIDE.ORG // #SDPRIDE2016 JULY 15 - JULY 17

SPECIAL THANKS TO NOMAD DONUTS @NOMADDONUTS // 4504 30TH STREET ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 53


THE SAN DIEGO COUNTY CREDIT UNION FESTIVAL OF ARTS is a culmination of creativity of all kinds, through all mediums, in a 8-block celebration that draws over 40,000 attendees. Artists create in realtime at the event, using cars, refrigerators, boom boxes and other every day objects as their canvases using spray paint, markers, acrylic, and enamel paints. Festival goers will get a unique perspective and experience as they witness the creative process in action. Artists show their original art in booths alongside so you can be inspired by their creations and pick up a few pieces for your living space. The SDCCU Festival of Arts also boasts an impressive, diverse lineup with eclectic acts headlining such as Steve Poltz, Vokab Kompany Mariachi el Bronx, San Diego favorites. Eight stages provides a wide variety of performances, including karaoke and dance stages. And of course, it wouldn’t be a San Diegan celebration without beer, so the Festival offers a Craft Beer Block for unlimited tasters from a selection of over thirty local craft brewers. For those much, much younger than 21, there’s a hands-on Kids Art Block, providing kids the opportunity to participate in interactive activities designed to inspire their imaginations so they can create their own masterpieces. WRITTEN BY: HALEY GROSENHEIDER 2017 SDCCU FESTIVAL OF ARTS SATURDAY // MAY 20TH

NORTHPARKMAINSTREET.COM IG & FB: @NORTHPARKMAINSTREET 54 EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM // ART ISSUE 2016


PHOTO BY: MARK FRILLES ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 55


DEXTER’S DELI IS YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD PET STORE WITH A TWIST.

DEXTER’S DELI 3773 30th Street San Diego CA, 92104

You’re conscious about what you eat, because you know that what you put in your body has a direct influence on your overall health and well-being. Wouldn’t you want the same thing for your best friend? Dexter’s Deli is committed to providing high-quality

products to cater for every kind of cat or dog, and every kind of health problem. The new North Park location is an expansion from their two North County stores, so your pooches and kitties can eat well.

HOURS // MON - FRI: 9AM - 7PM // SAT: 9AM - 6PM // SUN: 10AM - 5PM 619.738.8677 • WWW.DEXTERSDELI.COM • FB: /DEXTERSDELI • IG: @DEXTERS.DELI • TW: @DEXTERSDELI

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GEOGRAPHIE 2879 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92104

WANDER THROUGH GEOGRAPHIE AND BE INSPIRED BY THE CURATED MIX OF ARTISAN AND SMALL-BATCH, WELL-MADE GOODS FOR HOME, BODY AND SOUL.

619.888.5783 WWW.GEOGRAPHIESHOP.COM

FB: /GEOGRAPHIESHOP IG: @GEOGRAPHIESHOP TW: @GEOGRAPHIESHOP HOURS // MON - THURS: 11AM - 6PM FRI - SAT: 11AM - 7PM SUN: 10AM - 4PM

Wander through Geographie and be inspired by the curated mix of artisan and smallbatch, well-made goods for home, body and soul. This North Park boutique offers locally sourced sea salts, hand carved cutting boards, apothecary, textiles, candles and, French Opinel knives. Naturally shed antlers and nature inspired jewelry are displayed amongst travel themed vintage globes and old school wall maps. Original local art and prints are arranged with fun vintage displays and hangers. This boutique offers goods from creators such as San Diego Letters, Live A Great Story and Will Leather Goods, ensuring that your purchase supports small businesses and entrepreneurs. You’ll be charmed by their vintage aesthetics, kind, personalized service, and sweet cocker spaniel, Dylan. Geographie is about taking the back roads and making great efforts to find and share unique goods and gifts with great stories and local makers behind them. ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 57


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A7D CREATIVE GROUP A7D CREATIVE GROUP THE CURATORS BEHIND #EXPLORENORTHPARK AND SAN DIEGO’S TOP RESTAURANTS, BARS AND SPECIAL EVENTS.

A7D CREATIVE GROUP 2867 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92104

A7D Creative Group is a small boutique agency that eats, drinks + “runs” branding, literally!

environmental activations in NFL, MLB & Concert venues throughout California.

This hip young company offers a diverse, urban approach of equal parts creativity and logical strategy. A7D Creative Group has become the go-to for businesses who seek envelope-pushing marketing and design, as well as captivating consumers with

With services spanning from marketing, social media management, event social media marketing, graphics design, web design and printing, the team is dedicated to offering creative solutions for your project and located right in the heart of North Park.

HOURS // MON - FRI: 9AM - 5PM 619.574.6878 • WWW.A-7-D.COM • FB: /A7DCREATIVEGROUP • IG: @A7DCREATIVEGROUP • TW: @A7D

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WORKING OUT IN NORTH PARK FITNESS IS AN INSPIRING ENVIRONMENT SINCE YOU’RE SURROUNDED BY PEOPLE WHO ARE THERE FOR THE EXACT SAME REASON AS YOU ARE, TO TAKE CARE OF THEIR BODIES AND LOVE THEMSELVES.

NORTH PARK FITNESS 3049 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92104

619.255.4830 WWW.NORTHPARKFITNESS.COM

FB: /NORTH PARK FITNESS IG: @NORTHPARKFITNESS

HOURS // MON - FRI: 5AM - 10PM SAT: 7AM - 7PM // SUN: 8AM - 6PM

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North Park Fitness is a neighborhood gym where community members from all walks of life converge to take care of their bodies. Working out at North Park Fitness is an inspiring environment since you’re surrounded by people who are there for the exact same reason as you are, to take care of their bodies and love themselves. When you work out here, you’ll be surrounded by a broad variety of people all striving to reach their personal fitness goals. North Park Fitness is an all-inclusive facility where everyone can work out without intimidation. North Park Fitness is a gym that works for your life. The facility offers extended hours to ensure you can squeeze in your workout, whether it be 5AM before you head to work, or late at night. The facility strives to keep prices affordable, so everyone can better themselves regardless of their finances. North Park Fitness, in addition to a wide variety of equipment offered, also offers yoga classes and training sessions.


SIMPLY LOCAL 3013 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92104

SIMPLY LOCAL IS AN AESTHETICALLY PLEASING SHOP WITH A WIDE VARIETY OF LOCAL GOODS.

Nestled on University Avenue, Simply Local is an aesthetically pleasing shop with a wide variety of goods. The products all differ immensely, but they are united with one common thread: supporting local San Diego businesses. With approximately 85% of products being produced locally, shopping at Simply Local means you will be supporting your community. This merchant marketplace offers unique, creative goods from over 55 vendors in San Diego. Simply Local provides a platform for innovation and artistry from

local creators. Browse through brands such as SD Luv CO, which celebrates the unique San Diego neighborhoods, delicate jewelry from Full Bloom Jewelry, handcrafted soaps from San Diego Bath and Body Company, and many more. The inventory is constantly updated and changed, so the shop is always brimming with new finds. Walk into Simply Local and become charmed by the unique treasures you’ll discover, and feel good about spending your dollar at a small business that supports the community.

HOURS // MON - THURS: 10:30AM - 8PM // FRI - SAT: 10:30AM - 9PM // SUN: 10:30AM - 8PM 619.756.7958 • WWW.SIMPLYLOCALSANDIEGO.COM • FB: / SIMPLYLOCALSD • IG: @SIMPLYLOCALSD • TW: @ SIMPLYLOCALSD

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@COMMUNALCOFFEE // @ NATIVE_POPPY 2335 UNIVERSITY AVENUE

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PHOTOS PROVIDED BY: MEAGAN FLORIS

CHECK OUT THIS NEW ADDITION TO NORTH PARK!

MOOCH EXTERIOR DESIGNS 2335 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92104

MOOCH EXTERIOR DESIGNS SPECIALIZES IN CRAFTING PERIOD SPECIFIC LANDSCAPES THAT COMPLEMENT YOUR HOME AND ITS SURROUNDINGS.

Developed in 2006, the Mooch Exterior Design team is driven to preserving the rich historic architecture and the ecologically robust landscape of North Park. They are passionate about creating beautiful outdoor spaces for their clients to enjoy, and their work directly reflects this. Mooch Exterior Designs specializes in crafting period-specific landscapes that complement your home and its surroundings. They begin with a smart design, developing your outdoor living space with consideration toward its historic timeline. They believe in collaboration and supporting the community, and they demonstrate this belief by actively serving their local schools and businesses. Their goal is to enhance the community through thoughtful, artful design. 619.450.6990 WWW.MOOCHDESIGNS.COM

FB: /MOOCHEXTERIORDESIGNS

HOURS // MON - FRI: 8AM - 5PM


A FULL SERVICE COMMERCIAL BROKERAGE COMPANY LOCATED IN NORTH PARK SPECIALIZING IN BROKERAGE, INVESTMENT, AND DEVELOPMENT IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL 619.491.0614

DUHS COMMERCIAL • 3830 Ray Street - San Diego, CA 92104 • duhscommercial.com ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 63


Positive community news created by locals, for locals, supporting local independent businesses.

Directly mailed & free of charge to thousands of North Park homes Want local news in our neighboring communities? Adams Avenue News, Bay Park Connection, Clairemont Community News, College Area Connection, Hillcrest News, IB Connection, Ken-TAL News, North Park News, South Park News, and The Boulevard News

www.MidCityNewspaperGroup.com • ReachLocals@MidCityNewspaperGroup.com

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OBR ARCHITECTURE

OBR ARCHITECTURE 3817 Ray Street San Diego, CA 92104

IN A NEIGHBORHOOD WITH A RICH HISTORY, OBR ARCHITECTURE IS DEDICATED TO UPDATING NORTH PARK BUILDINGS, WHILE STILL RETAINING THE HISTORIC AESTHETICS AND ART DECO STYLE.

In a neighborhood with a rich history, OBR Architecture is dedicated to updating North Park buildings, while still retaining the historic aesthetics and art deco style. This sleek firm is behind many of North Park’s beautifully designed spots, such as Waypoint Public, Bottlecraft North Park and Saiko Sushi and Sake Bar. Parklets, a movement to extend the sidewalk and temporarily inhabit public spaces, will soon be popping up throughout the North Park neighborhood due to OBR. Occupying two parking spaces, the design includes wood decking, steel planters, and sculptural steel tables, giving North Park

residents a comfortable place to converse, eat, and drink. This firm beautifies North Park in more ways than just architecture. OBR also participates in North Park’s booming art scene as an art gallery, hosting many talented creators in their space. They participate in North Park’s expansive art scene, in events such as “Ray at Night” and holding their own art charity auction. Established in 2008, the firm brings an exceptional, collaborative, and artistic approach to every project. Their philosophy is to assist, inspire, and lead their clients in reaching their project goals and beautifying their space.

HOURS // MON - THURS: 8AM - 6PM // FRI: 8AM - 6PM // SAT - SUN: CLOSED 619.564.7586 • WWW.OBRARCHITECTURE.COM • FB: /OBRARCHITECTURE

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THE ART OF HISTORICAL HOMES

IN NORTH PARK WRITTEN BY: RON OSTER RON OSTER - REALTOR / ASCENT REAL ESTATE 619.807.5333 | ron@ronoster.com | Lic#00644595

An anomaly in its North Park neighborhood, this house with a “face-brick� skin over a wooden frame was built in 1924. A riverrock retaining wall makes an impressive entrance for the building that also has a matching foundation. The style of this bungalow appears to be a spare version of Mission Revival, as suggested by the arches and the curved parapet. It was built by a couple living next door at the time. The wife was from Michigan, and she missed its brick houses, which were conspicuously absent in California.

So she convinced her husband to build this brick house. The home comes with Australian gumwood molding, living/dining room original built-ins, laundry chute, and Batchelder fireplace tiles. The slope allowed the original owner to create a granny flat unit, wine cellar, and garage under the main living space. The rear of the property is a private space enclosed with a fence, featuring a small lawn, large stamped concrete patio with a fountain, and shaded pergola.

Next time you are out exploring, check out this historic house and others throughout the North Park community. 66 EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM // ART ISSUE 2016


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UNION COWORK PROVIDES OFFICE SPACE, CONFERENCE ROOMS & EVENT SPACE FOR INDIVIDUALS, ENTREPRENEURS, AND COMPANIES OF ALL SIZES.

UNION COWORK 3060 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92104 3919 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104

UNION OFFERS THREE LEVELS OF MEMBERSHIP PLUS HOURLY AND DAILY RENTALS OF MEETING AND EVENT SPACE.

PERKS OF UNION MEMBERSHIP: - 24/7/365 secure access to any Union location - Free coffee, beer and kombucha (on tap) - Discounts for students and military - Access to outdoor living space - Access to incubator program - All-inclusive pricing

Union Cowork opened their first location in North Park in 2013 and have since opened five additional locations throughout Southern California. Union Cowork caters to the needs of contemporary businesses with small, shared spaces and services.

Union Cowork was created to provide a fun environment that fosters more intimate social and business development. The result is a sustainable, thriving ecosystem of relationships culminating in financial and personal growth.

HOURS // EVERYDAY: 24 HOURS - 7 DAYS A WEEK - 365 DAYS A YEAR 858.999.3036 • WWW.UNIONCOWORK.COM • FB: /UNION COWORK • IG: @UNIONCOWORK • TW: @UNIONCOWORK

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MIKE HESS BREWING 3812 Grim Avenue San Diego, CA 92104


MODERN TIMES FLAVOR DOME 3000 Upas Street San Diego, CA 92104 72 EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM // ART ISSUE 2016


BEER SCENE NORTH PARK IS THE EPICENTER OF THE SAN DIEGO CRAFT BEER CULTURE WRITTEN BY: ANDY HINDS

CRAFT BEER IS INCREDIBLY HOT RIGHT NOW, and if you are in the mood for a cold one, there are more venues than ever where you can slake both your thirst and adventurous gustatory spirit. The most recent data available from the Brewers Association shows nationwide increases in “small and independent” craft brewing of 18% in volume (capturing 11% of market share) and 22% in sales (up to 19% market share) in the past year. Many cities claim to be the capital of American craft brewing; but no list of craft beer meccas is complete without San Diego County, which at the time of this writing is home to 115 licensed breweries, but has been adding more than one per month for the past several years. Although the actual production of beer in San Diego is spread from the coast to the mountains and deserts of the county, and local brews are available at most reputable restaurants and watering holes, there is no part of town with more enthusiasm or a higher density of craft beer-centric establishments than the eclectic North Park neighborhood. If you simply want to buy a few bottles of local IPA to wash down your lunch, you can stop at virtually any grocery store or mini-mart and get the goods. And don’t be fooled by the modest exteriors of traditional liquor stores like Quality Liquor or Ray’s Liquor Center: the beer selections in these traditional spaces are deep enough to keep you wandering the aisles for way longer than you had planned. But if you really want to get your beer nerd on, head over to Bottlecraft North Park, where you may very well have a lifechanging conversation with one of the expert staff. And as long as you are there, hit up Venissimo, the cheese shop/deli in the back of the store, and nosh on some high-end cheese and charcuterie as you quaff flights of beer in the tasting area.

If your interest in beer goes beyond taste profiles and food pairings, and into the technical aspects of brewing, you will want to visit one of the working breweries in the neighborhood, such as Mike Hess Brewing, where you can watch the brewers toil in the stainless steel labyrinth below as you enjoy a World Beer Cup Gold Award-winning Habitus Rye IPA. Or two. Another great working brewery where you can fill up your growler, or have a few tasters (or pints) while enjoying the wares of a rotating cast of food trucks parked outside is Thorn Street Brewery, located in a quieter part of the neighborhood, a few blocks away from the busy University Avenue and 30th Street intersection. Fall Brewing, on the north end of 30th Street, is the latest brewery to open in North Park, offering a stripped-down aesthetic, a sense of humor, and a passion for classic beer styles. If you are that hardest of hardcore beer geeks—a homebrewer—you definitely need to spend some time with George and the friendly staff at The Homebrewer on El Cajon Boulevard, whether to take a class, stock up on supplies, taste some brews, or just talk shop. After a day of beer shopping, beer tasting, and beer education, you deserve to sit down to a delicious meal and a refreshing pint of beer. Your options for a beer-centric meal are too plentiful to list here, as almost every restaurant in the neighborhood offers a comprehensive beer list. To narrow it down, ask yourself whether you want to go to a craft brew joint where you can get excellent food (Toronado, Rip Current, Modern Times Flavor Dome; e.g.), or an excellent restaurant where you can get killer craft brews (Waypoint Public, Ritual Tavern, Urban Solace, URBN Coal Fired Pizza, just to name a few). Inevitably, you will come to the same conclusion: you need to spend a couple more days in North Park. ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 73


BEER CULTURE

3812 GRIM AVENUE www.mikehessbrewing.com

3000 UPAS STREET www.moderntimesbeer.com

4101 30TH STREET www.ripcurrentbrewing.com

3038 UNIVERSITY AVENUE www.northparkbeerco.com

3176 THORN STREET www.thornstreetbrew.com

4223 30TH STREET www.belchinbeaver.com

4542 30TH STREET www.fallbrewing.com

2911 EL CAJON BLVD - SPACE #2 www.thehomebrewersd.com 74 EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM // ART ISSUE 2016

MIKE HESS BREWING 3812 Grim Avenue San Diego, CA 92104


BLUEFOOT BAR & LOUNGE HEAD TO BLUEFOOT BAR & LOUNGE, WHERE THEY TAKE AWAY ALL THE NONSENSE TO FOCUS ON MAKING SURE EVERYONE HAS A FUN NIGHT OUT IN NORTH PARK.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY: @theSLRtist // Cuffin SD party

BLUEFOOT BAR & LOUNGE 3404 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104

Looking for a night out without all the drama of cover, dress code, and overpriced drinks? Head to Bluefoot Bar & Lounge, where they take away all that nonsense to focus on making sure everyone has a fun night out in North Park. In the evening it’s a laid-back place to play some pool and grab a few drinks. Bluefoot offers an extra long happy hour, from when the doors open until 7:30PM every weekday. Even if it’s not happy hour, the drinks are some of the best deals in town and you can be sure that the bartenders pour them strong.

If you’re looking for a great neighborhood dance party, Bluefoot has you covered on weekends (and even some weeknights)! Be sure to check out “The Rewind” every first Saturday of the month. This is North Park’s longest running throwback night, with resident DJs playing the best in classic party anthems and ‘90s gems. Arrive early, and be prepared for a good time. The bar also has a patio on 30th Street so you can take in the views while enjoying beers, cocktails, and good times!

HOURS // SUN - THURS: 11AM - MIDNIGHT // FRI - SAT: 11AM - 2AM 619.756.7891 • WWW.BLUEFOOTSD.COM • FB: /BLUEFOOTSD • IG: @BLUEFOOTBAR • TW: @BLUEFOOTBAR

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THE OFFICE BAR

THE OFFICE BAR 3936 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104

ENTER THE OFFICE FROM 30TH STREET INTO A DIFFERENT WORLD, A SLEEK BAR WITH SOPHISTICATED COCKTAILS AND A 1960S MANHATTAN VIBE.

Enter The Office from 30th Street into a different world, a sleek bar with sophisticated cocktails and a 1960s Manhattan vibe, not unlike episodes of “Mad Men” you may have seen. The Office pays homage to mid-century office culture, with vintage graphics and signature cocktails such as the “Big Business”, the “Fringe Benefit”, or the “Esquire”. Libations are crafted with expertise and The Office has perhaps the best happy hour in North Park. Specials run daily, 4-9PM! $3 off signature cocktails, $2 off select beer and $1 off well & call drinks. Entertainment starts nightly at 9PM, ranging from DJ’s to live music, each night has its own personality and the dance floor is always moving. Thursday through Saturday has something for everyone, while every Sunday is Reggae night and Tuesdays are reserved for Trap (electronic) music. Look for live bands on Monday and Wednesday nights. The proper mix of cocktails and entertainment will make you do a double-take, because “It’s a business doing pleasure with you.” 76 EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM // ART ISSUE 2016

619.450.6632 WWW.THEOFFICEBARSD.COM

FB: /THEOFFICEBARSD IG: @THEOFFICEBARSD TW: @THEOFFICEBARSD

HOURS // MON - SUN: 4PM - 2AM


IN A CITY RIDDLED WITH MANY CRAFT BEER SUPERSTARS, MIKE HESS BREWING HAS FOUGHT THROUGH THE NOISE AND MANAGED TO CEMENT THEIR STATUS AS A PREMIER CRAFT BREWERY.

MIKE HESS BREWING 3812 Grim Avenue San Diego, CA 92104

In a city riddled with many craft beer superstars, Mike Hess Brewing has fought through the noise and managed to cement their status as a premier craft brewery. This rise to the top is even more impressive given the humble beginnings of the brewery. It all started in 2009 when Mike Hess relocated his financial services office into a light industrial park along Miramar Road with an 800-square-foot garage to hold his home brewing setup. As a home brewer for 15 years, Mike had always dreamed of turning passion into profession, but that seemed out of reach and there weren’t any resources out there on how to get started. His frustration led him to write the Hess Brewing Odyssey, a chronicle of their start-up process detailing the steps needed to open a similar operation.

In July of 2010, after eight months of hard work, the Mike Hess Brewing brand was born and opened to the public. Since then, the brewery has only grown in popularity. The production facility and tasting room in North Park is a beer lover’s playground, with a 12,000-square-foot facility and a 30 Barrel Brewhouse. The vibe is upbeat, the setup is unique, and the craft beer is of the highest quality. This is a fun spot to kick back with a flight or two, shoot a few rounds of darts and play some board games. Be sure to try their straight forward West Coast-style IPA, titled North Park IPA, that is light in color, and dry in the finish, hop-forward but well balanced, whose title gives a shout out to our community.

HOURS // SUN - THURS: 12PM - 10PM // FRI - SAT: 12PM - 12AM 619.255.7136 • WWW.MIKEHESSBREWING.COM • FB: /MIKEHESSBREWINGCONORTHPARK • IG: @MIKEHESSBREWING • TW: @MIKEHESSBREWING

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BAR PINK IS AN EQUAL BLEND OF DIVEY & TRENDY AND THE END RESULT IS AN ECLECTIC ENVIRONMENT THAT ENSURES A FUNKY NIGHT AHEAD.

BAR PINK 3829 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104

A night out at Bar Pink feels like a night out in a previous decade. With the bar’s vintage ambiance, reel of old films playing behind the bar and throwback music, you’ll feel as though you stepped into an earlier time. Bar Pink is an equal blend of divey and trendy and the end result is an eclectic environment that ensures a funky night ahead. Head here for dancing, cheap drinks, pool, pinball and a cool, dimly lit ambiance. This cocktail lounge puts an emphasis on the tunes they play, so it’s the perfect spot for music lovers. Look out for their fun events, such as Motown on Monday, ‘80s/’90s night, and Tiki Tuesdays. Bar Pink also has an impressive lineup of DJs and live music almost every night. Music is best listened to with a cocktail in hand, so be sure to grab one of their crafted drinks, such as the Pink Princess (raspberry vodka, apple pucker and pink lemonade) or Sneaky Tiki (coconut rum, almond liquor, sweet & sour, and fruit juice) while you enjoy your evening. 78 EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM // ART ISSUE 2016

619.564.7194 WWW.BARPINK.COM

FB: /BARPINKSD IG: @BAR_PINK TW: @BAR_PINK

HOURS // MON - SUN: 12PM - 2AM HAPPY HOUR: 12PM - 8PM


COIN-OP GAME ROOM

COIN-OP GAME ROOM 3926 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104

COIN-OP GAME ROOM IS THE SPOT TO HEAD FOR A NEXT-LEVEL GAME NIGHT WITH A BLEND OF OLD SCHOOL AND MODERN GAMES.

Coin-Op Game Room is the spot to head for a next-level game night with a blend of old-school and modern games. This bar boasts thirty coin-operated games ranging from 1981 releases Galaga, and Frogger, to the 2014 version of Golden Tee. They focus on the classic video games, with over half of their floor dedicated to games from the early ‘80s, so you can rejoice in the nostalgia of previous decades while trying to beat the high score. The spot also boasts four pinball machines all ranked in the top 20 of all time by Pinside.com.

In true San Diego fashion, Coin-Op offers a large variety of craft beer so you can sip while you play. Grab some snacks to share with your friends, such as shareable popcorn with maple bacon, corn dog bites with IPA mustard, and chicken wings. If you’ve worked up an appetite from playing all those games, they also have entrées available, such as crafted hot dogs, burgers, and a grilled chicken sandwich. Be sure to check out their “free play” days on the last Sunday of the month so you can play to your heart’s desire.

HOURS // MON - FRI: 4PM - 1AM // SAT - SUN: 12PM - 1AM 619.255.8523 • WWW.COINOPSD.COM • FB: /COINOPSD • IG: @COINOPSD

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THE HEROES OF 30TH & UNIVERSITY MEET THE NORTH PARK CHEFS WHO HAVE FOUND THEIR WAY TO OUR HEARTS & INTO OUR STOMACHS. WRITTEN BY: KELSEY PRINCE

WE S T C OA S T T A V E R N

CHEF MATT GORDON URBAN SOLACE

CHEF ABE BOTELLO WEST COAST TAVERN

CHEF FRED PIEHL THE SMOKING GOAT

CHEF RICH SWEENEY WAYPOINT PUBLIC

WHY NORTH PARK RULES:

WHY NORTH PARK RULES:

SIGNATURE DISH:

SIGNATURE DISH:

My favorite part of being here has been seeing how the neighborhood has really come into its own in our nine years here! When we first were building in 2006 and opening in 2007, the neighborhood was very different. A lot of the now “core businesses” were building or opening at the same time and it was amazing to see this collective effort to improve the business district; most of us are still here and thriving nine years later. We have an amazing group of owners and operators and we are all tight-knit and focused on creating a great experience for visitors to our area.

My favorite part about being in North Park is that it has become known as a foodie destination there is a lot of talent and food in this community. It’s a good feeling to know that you are contributing to this community having that reputation, and to see the people flocking to North Park on any given day to get a taste is priceless.

Every French bistro needs a great steak and frites and ours is a winner! With a 10oz certified humane flatiron that has no antibiotics, no growth hormones, and is consistent and flavorful, you can’t go wrong. The duck fat truffle fries are not an after thought. They are house-cut and continue to be a favorite by all.

SIGNATURE DISH:

FOOD PHILOSOPHY:

I don’t have a signature dish per se, but my style of cuisine is American with a Baja influence. My menus always contain that Mexican-Baja influence, selecting ingredients or flavors that I grew up with and bringing them and marrying them with American fare.

Get the best ingredients, keep it simple, and do it right. I spend immense amounts of time working with our farms and purveyors so that we get the best product possible. My kids eat here, so I am not going to compromise. My goal is to bring out the flavors and not muddle with it too much. I love it when people reminisce about meals from when we first opened, or last year, or last week with a feeling of genuine delight.

For Waypoint Public, it’s a tie between the house-made pretzel bites with IPA triple cheese sauce (using nearby Fall Brewery Green Hat IPA), and the pork French toast (Bread & Cie sourdough dipped into parmesan custard, then coated in crushed potato chips, topped with our house Beer-B-Q pulled pork, and a sunny side up egg). Did I mention it’s sitting in a happy little pool of that same IPA triple cheese sauce?

SIGNATURE DISH:

Well, we have a lot of those! I think we are known for honest, well-sourced and creative cooking with a dash of Southern inspiration. I think our cinnamon rolls are becoming sort of legendary around town too! FOOD PHILOSOPHY:

Do what is best for the food and stay natural. We are diligently focused on the purity of our ingredients: no artificial ingredients, no high fructose corn syrup, no coloring, no hormones, and no antibiotics. We like to make sure we know the source of the ingredients and how they are made and handled to know that we are buying the best and purest we can.

FOOD PHILOSOPHY:

My food philosophy is to keep it simple and, most of all, have fun with it. There is a great sense of gratitude when one can please the palates of many and it’s your work to make sure they’re enjoying. EPIC FACT:

My first job in the kitchen was with Urban Solace Group back when they first opened. I was trying to land a job in the kitchen as I attended culinary school. I interviewed with them, but they decided not to go with me. At the time of their opening, they were one person short, so they pulled the last resume on the “Do Not Hire” stack, and it was mine. The rest is history! I spent six years with them and became their sous chef for two of their locations. It shaped the path for my career.

EPIC FACT:

I grew up in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, and would drive my snowmobile across Lake Winnipesaukee to go to high school during winter. I parked in the lot with the teachers! FUTURE PREDICTIONS:

It seems like every year we make great strides because we focus on progress and growth and we work hard at it. I see this community in the same way, we are growing up together and continuing to improve so that more and more people stop and take notice. With San Diego being recognized nationally, we predict that North Park will be a must visit destination for visitors and locals alike.

FOOD PHILOSOPHY:

KISS: Keep It Simple, Stupid. That, and have fun! If we enjoy the process of creating and making the food, that fun will carry over to our guests when they enjoy it. FAVORITE DAY-OFF HANGOUT:

Normally it’s on my couch at home with the hubby and the pups, but I love taking the dogs to the beach or the park as well! FUTURE PREDICTIONS:

I’m loving being a part of the Waypoint Public Family, and part of why I came on board is to help build and grow the brand and the company. Keep your eyes out for info on our next location(s) that we are hoping to announce soon, and have open by the winter! For North Park, I predict a whole “helluva” lot more great beer. I’ll be waiting to cook with it and pair my dishes with it, like during our monthly Brewmaster Dinner Series (check our website for upcoming events)!

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TRUE NORTH TAVERN IS PART SPORTS BAR, PART RESTAURANT, AND PART NEIGHBORHOOD HANGOUT THAT SIMPLY ADDS UP TO A GOOD TIME.

TRUE NORTH TAVERN 3815 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104

True North Tavern is part sports bar, part restaurant, and part neighborhood hangout that simply adds up to a good time. Although the San Diego chapter of the California Restaurant Association made True North their pick for “Best Sports Bar” three years in a row, saying that True North is just a sports bar doesn’t do this spot justice. With events such as Monday night trivia, Tuesday night Soul Jam featuring live local artists on display, Wednesday night bingo and Sunday brunch; True North Tavern is much, much more than your typical sports bar. This casual and laid-back neighborhood bar has truly something for

everyone. For sports lovers, it’s a fun atmosphere to catch the big game, with TVs everywhere and a 360 degree bar to grab all the craft beer your heart desires. For foodies, this spot has some high-quality, eclectic eats that you wouldn’t expect, such their famous, original loaded tots and biscuit sliders, as well as classics like jalapeño burgers, salads, and sandwiches. For cocktail connoisseurs, grab one of their expertly crafted drinks, such as the Strawberry Bourbon Mule or Pear & Sage Margarita. At night, expect to find a packed house dancing and mingling the night away.

HOURS // MON - FRI: 12PM - 2AM // SAT: 11AM - 2PM // SUN: 10AM - 2AM + SUNDAYS AT 9AM DURING FOOTBALL SEASON 619.291.3815 • WWW.TRUENORTHTAVERN.COM • FB: /TRUENORTHTAVERN • IG: @TRUENORTHTAVERN • TW: @TRUENORTHTAVERN

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SPLASH WINE LOUNGE & BISTRO

SPLASH WINE LOUNGE & BISTRO 3043 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92104

WINE LOVERS, YOU HAVE FOUND YOUR PARADISE. SPLASH WINE LOUNGE & BISTRO OFFERS AN INNOVATIVE NEW WAY TO WINE TASTE RIGHT IN THE HEART OF NORTH PARK.

619.296.0714 WWW.ASPLASHOFWINE.COM

FB: /SPLASHWINELOUNGE IG: @SPLASHWINE TW: @SPLASHWINE

HOURS // MON: 4PM - 10PM // TUES - THURS: 4PM - 11PM FRI - SAT: 12PM - 1AM // SUN: 3PM - 10PM

Wine lovers, you have found your paradise. Splash Wine Lounge & Bistro offers an innovative new way to wine taste right in the heart of North Park. This hip spot was voted San Diego’s best Wine Bar, and once you try it, you’ll see it’s for good reason. With over 90 wines from all over the world, the selection is plentiful and the knowledgeable staff is there to recommend and inform. You start your experience by loading up a card with any dollar amount you wish, then insert it into the many wine choices, opting for either a splash or glass. If you find a wine you adore, you can buy it by the bottle. To accompany the wine, Splash has a decadent menu of flatbread pizzas, small plates, and appetizers. The ambiance is charming and romantic, with its dimly lighted glow. Head to Splash Wine Lounge & Bistro to taste, experience, and relax. ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 83


ART

IN THE PARK WRITTEN BY: SARAH MCALEAR STROKES OF PAINT GLIDE ON PAPER, GLASSES CLINK, & BEATS VIBRATE THROUGH THE BACK ROOM OF BLUEFOOT BAR & LOUNGE DURING ART IN THE PARK.

The back room of Bluefoot plays host to more than just weekend dance parties. It has served as a gallery space and venue for live art, modern dance, fashion and trunk shows, percussion concerts, and even been a set on a Hollywood film. Each month new artists are invited to hang their work and have an opening, in a tradition going back to the bar’s beginnings ten years ago. “When we first opened we knew that the arts were going to be very important in North Park,” co-owner Adam Cook tells me over a beer. “Back then, Ray Street was having something of a renaissance, with new galleries opening and Ray at Night taking off. We had a real synergy with Gustaf Rooth, one of the Ray at Night founders and Planet Rooth Design Haus owner. He volunteered his time to schedule artist shows in our back room and really treated it like a mini-gallery.” LIVE ART & ARTIST SHOWCASES

One of the longest-running Bluefoot traditions is Art in the Park (AITP), the brainchild of Soulection co-founder Andre Power. For six years, Power has carefully curated this unique audio and visual experience that brings local and trans-border artists and musicians into the thick of North Park. Power and his team have been killing it. Soulection has grown into a record label and radio station with a global following, but he continues to have a soft spot in his heart for this night. He was pulling back into San Diego from New York just as the last AITP was setting up. “It’s always nice to get back here and see people coming together to share ideas, inspiration and cultivate relationships.” When AITP was finding its legs, “there weren’t many spaces where you could set up a regular night like this. I tried a few different venues before this, but the first night at Bluefoot it just clicked. This space provides an inviting, intimate environment for artists to interact with the local community, and everyone loves it.” ART IN THE PARK HAPPENS EVERY 1ST THURSDAY OF THE MONTH FROM 8PM - MIDNIGHT AT BLUEFOOT BAR & LOUNGE 6+ artists // 4+ DJs // No Cover // 21+

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BLUEFOOT BAR & LOUNGE 3404 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104 ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 85



THE SMOKING GOAT 3408 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104


URBAN SOLACE IS DEDICATED TO PUTTING CRAFT, STYLE, AND REFINEMENT BEHIND EACH ENTREE.

Helmed by Chef and Owner Matt Gordon, Urban Solace is passionate about creating scratch dishes made from genuine, responsibly sourced, seasonal ingredients. The care put into each dish is evident with each bite. All the meats are natural, hormone and antibiotic free; the seafood selection adheres to the Monterey Bay Aquarium Watch List; their local eggs are from Eben-Haezer along with organic fruits and vegetables whenever possible. Even the cocktail menu is designed with care, with house made syrups, fresh squeezed juices, and aromatic herbs. The wine menu

features sustainable, small production, west coast wines meant to pair with Chef Matt’s menu. All bar and menu items are prepared without the use of high fructose corn syrup and artificial dyes and colors including their draft sodas and cocktail accompaniments. Urban Solace serves brunch seven days a week and their award winning “Big Mon” cinnamon roll is available on the weekends. Fan favorite dishes include the Cheddar-Chive Biscuits, “Duckaroni” (mac ‘n’ cheese made with Duck Confit), Slow Braised Beef Cheeks and “Not Your Momma’s” Lamb-Pork Meatloaf.

HOURS // MON - WED: 11AM - 10PM // FRI: 11AM - 11PM // SAT: 10:30AM - 11PM // SUN: BRUNCH: 9:30AM - 2:30PM + DINNER: 4PM - 9PM 619.295.6464 • WWW.URBANSOLACE.NET • FB: /URBANSOLACE • IG: @URBANSOLACE • TW: @URBANSOLACE

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URBAN SOLACE 3823 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104 ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 89


RITUAL KITCHEN & BEER GARDEN IS A SOFTLY LIT PUB FILLED WITH LAUGHTER & WARMTH, BREEZY GARDEN PATIOS, IRRESISTIBLE GASTRO-TAVERN MEALS, AND ROTATING LOCAL DRAFTS.

RITUAL KITCHEN & BEER GARDEN 4095 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104

Step inside Ritual Kitchen and find yourself in an old world dining hall and bar of dark wood and candlelight. Roasted and sautéed aromas beckon you to their acclaimed and storied kitchen. Inspired by traditional offerings, their shepherd’s pie is hand carved from leg of lamb. Local mussels steamed in white wine remind you of a breeze off a blustery coast. Explore their patios, enjoy barstools overlooking the bustling 30th Street craft beer corridor, or find seclusion amongst vines and

flowers in the covered beer garden. Enjoy a pint of San Diego IPA paired with a natural burger and hand cut fries, or a bright and racy sauvignon blanc with a locally caught filet of fish over risotto and organic vegetables. With longstanding ties with the best brewers in town, you’ll be sure to find fun, local draft offerings; all more the reason to stop in and raise a glass.

HOURS // MON: CLOSED // TUES - THURS: 4:30PM - 11:30PM // FRI: 12PM - 1:30PM // SAT: 11AM - 1:30PM // SUN: 11AM - 10:30PM 619.283.1720 • WWW.RITUALTAVERN.COM • FB: /RITUAL TAVERN & BEER GARDEN • IG: @RITUALKITCHEN • TW: @RITUALKITCHEN

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CITY TACOS ELEVATES YOUR TACO TO A NEAR ART FORM WITH LOCAL, SEASONAL INGREDIENTS. EACH TASTE AND FLAVOR IS CRAFTED WITH CARE AND QUALITY IN MIND.

619.296.2303 WWW.CITYTACOSSD.COM

IG: @CITYTACOSSD TW: @CITYTACOS

HOURS // MON - THURS: 11AM - 11PM FRI - SAT: 11AM - 2AM // SUN: 12PM - 11PM

Gerry Torres is an innovator in crafted tacos and tostadas, and luckily for North Park, he has shared his gift for flavor with the community. He began with City Tacos, a craft taqueria with indulgent, delicious tacos for only $3.50 a pop (and just $3 during Taco Tuesday!). With gourmet tacos such as El Especial (sautéed shrimp, octopus and squid, oaxaca cheese, tomato concasse, Panko fried snow crab, diced cilantro and Serrano chiles) and Portobello Con Vegetables (grilled portobello mushroom with caramelized pineapple over melted oaxaca cheese), you won’t be able to go back to basic tacos. This restaurant elevates your taco to a near art form with local, seasonal ingredients. Each taste and flavor is crafted with care and quality in mind. To accompany your taco, grab a beer from their selection of San Diego and Mexican beer. CITY TACOS // 3028 UNIVERSITY AVENUE - SAN DIEGO, CA 92104

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NO MATTER WHAT YOU CHOOSE AT TOSTADAS, YOU CAN BE SURE THAT IT IS AN EXPERT WORK OF CULINARY CRAFT.

Tostadas, Torres’ second North Park venture, may differ in cuisine offered at City Tacos, but is alike when it comes to quality and execution. The eatery features fresh seafood and expert combinations. To accompany your ceviche tostada, sip on a fresh juice such as the Yellow Submarine (pineapple, cucumber, apple, and carrot) or the Mean Green (celery, parsley, spinach, and carrot). The eatery also offers aguas frescas, beer, and wine to accompany your meal. Beyond tostadas, the hip eatery also boasts a variety of other dishes such as soups, salads, and seafood entrées. No matter what you choose, you can be sure that it is an expert work of culinary craft.

619.450.4788 WWW.TOSTADASNORTHPARK.COM FB: /TOSTADAS NORTH PARK IG: @TOSTADASSD HOURS // MON - SUN: 11AM - 10PM

TOSTADAS // 3139 UNIVERSITY AVENUE - SAN DIEGO, CA 92104

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CRAZEE BURGER

CRAZEE BURGER 3993 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104

CRAZEE BURGER IS NORTH PARK’S MOST UNIQUE BEER AND BURGER JOINT.

619.282.6044 WWW.CRAZEEBURGER.COM

FB: /CRAZEE BURGER IG: @CRAZEEBURGER TW: @CRAZEEBURGERSD

HOURS // SUN - THURS: 11AM - 10PM FRI - SAT: 11AM - 11PM

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Crazee Burger is North Park’s most unique beer and burger joint. They have their simple burgers mastered, such as their Signature (angus meat and cheese), the Texas (bacon and hickory-smoked barbecue sauce) and the Cajun, (sautéed onions and chili sauce). If you feel like pushing the envelope and shaking things up a bit, this eatery also offers some wild burgers with exotic meats, such as boar, ostrich, venison, duck, camel and elk on their menu. And what would a burger establishment be without a beer to complement your meal? Crazee Burger also boasts a wide rotating selection of craft beer, leaning towards San Diego beers, staying true to the capital of craft culture. Head there for daily happy hour with beers for $3.49 to pair with your meal!


LOCATED ONE MILE FROM THE SAN DIEGO ZOO, CARDAMOM CAFE & BAKERY IS A LOCAL AND VISITOR FAVORITE FOR BREAKFAST, LUNCH, AND BAKED GOODS.

CARDAMOM CAFE & BAKERY 2977 Upas Street San Diego, CA 92104

This cheery North Park hub is dedicated to baking all their breads and croissants from scratch and in-house daily. From the English muffin in your California Benedict, to the Chocolate Hazelnut French Toast, quality ingredients are apparent with the first bite. Cardamom sources local farm fresh eggs and seafood and strives to feature produce from the North Park Thursday Market.

Cardamom boasts the best croissants in San Diego. Owner, Joanne and her bakers utilize a French technique in a unique American way, thereby allowing you to enjoy classic Almond or Belgian Chocolate croissants along with regional flavors of Jalapeño Cream Cheese. No visit to Cardamom is complete without snagging one of her buttery, airy, and flaky croissants.

HOURS // EVERYDAY: 7AM - 2PM 619.546.5609 • WWW.CARDAMOMSANDIEGO.COM • FB: /CARDAMOMCAFEANDBAKERY • IG: @CARDAMOMCAFEANDBAKERYSD

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ENCONTRO IS SPANISH FOR “FOUND,” AND YOU’LL FIND THAT IF YOU TRY THIS NORTH PARK NEWBIE, YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED.

Encontro is Spanish for “found,” and you’ll find that if you try this North Park newbie, you will not be disappointed. Despite being open for a short time, Encontro has worked its way up to become a North Park favorite in town. Head to Encontro for its modern ambiance, open layout, and eclectic eats. There is a distinct “encontro” spin on each and every one of their crafted dishes, making the result unique and unforgettable. The menu boasts Thai sausage (get it with the house recommendation of sriracha aioli and fried egg), portobello fries with a variety of dipping sauces, mini corn dogs, brussels sprouts, and many other amazing eats. To accompany your

meal, Encontro has a rotating and extensive beer selection. When you dine at Encontro, your meal will be enjoyed in a cool, hip open layout with huge windows that allow for interesting people-watching of North Park’s quirky community on University Avenue. For those late nights after hitting the fun North Park bars, Encontro has you covered for late night eats. They offer a late night menu Friday and Saturday nights 12PM-2:30AM, ensuring those heading home after a night out in North Park can grab a bite and end their night on a delicious note. This restaurant is dedicated to making sure that your dining experience at Encontro is fast, simple, and authentic.

HOURS // MON - WED: 11AM - 10PM // THURS - SAT: 11AM - 12AM // SUN: 11AM - 10PM 619.291.1220 • WWW.ENCONTRONORTHPARK.COM • FB: /ENCONTRONORTHPARK • IG: @ENCONTRONORTHPARK

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ENCONTRO 3001 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92104 ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 95


THE OBSERVATORY NORTH PARK THEATRE

A PERFORMANCE PALACE WRITTEN BY: KATHERINE HON // ARCHIVE PHOTOS BY: B’HEND & KAUFMANN ARCHIVES

THE DOORS OF THE NORTH PARK THEATRE, now Observatory North Park Theatre, opened on January 17, 1929. The two-story building housed a bank, street-level shops, second-floor medical offices, and most importantly, a vaudeville performance theatre that also accommodated the latest craze, “talking pictures.” Originally part of Edward Fox’s movie chain, this Fox West Coast Theatre was the first Fox movie house built with Vitaphone Sound, the first to be air-conditioned when constructed, and the first mixed use commercial and theatre combination building in the chain. The auditorium had a seating capacity of about 1,200 persons; the stage featured an orchestra pit, hydraulic lift, and fly-loft for raising and lowering scenery. The plush interior flaunted Byzantine and Moorish details in marble and tile wall panels, a painted and coffered ceiling, and brilliantly hued furnishings and carpets. The newspaper declared it “one of the most modern, comfortable, pleasantly appointed and delightful motion picture theatres to be found anywhere.” Griffins guard the facade on the west end of the arabesque frieze that wraps around the building. Prominent architects Charles and Edward

Quayle designed the building in an elaborate Spanish Renaissance style for Emil Klicka, who was dedicated to creating “a city of our own” in North Park and funded the project that was estimated to cost $350,000. The major original occupant of the retail space was a branch of the new Bank of America, which remained there until a new building was constructed for the bank on 30th Street in 1950. During the 1960s, changes in land use and shopping patterns eroded business in North Park, and the theatre stopped operating as a movie house in the 1970s. Although it saw some activity as a church and occasional performance venue, it sat empty and deteriorating by the late 1980s. Fast forward to 2005—a grand dedication celebrated the successful restoration effort led by Bud Fischer in coordination with the City of San Diego and Lyric Opera San Diego, the first managing tenant. A new theatre entrance was created on 29th Street to allow a restaurant (now West Coast Tavern) to help anchor the building’s business along University Avenue. The restoration of this historically designated jewel of North Park’s commercial core undeniably initiated a renaissance that continues today.

With its vintage facade shining brightly in the middle of University Avenue, The Observatory North Park Theatre is one of the most iconic relics of North Park’s vintage charm and fascinating history. 96 EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM // ART ISSUE 2016


THE OBSERVATORY NORTH PARK THEATRE 2891 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92104 ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 97


WEST COAST TAVERN 2895 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92104

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TRANSFORMED FROM ONE OF NORTH PARK’S MOST HISTORIC BUILDINGS, WEST COAST TAVERN FUSES MODERN WITH CLASSIC, RETAINING THE OLD-SCHOOL GLAMOUR WHILE PERVADING A NEW, LAID-BACK, URBAN VIBE.

Transformed from one of North Park’s most historic buildings, West Coast Tavern fuses modern with classic, retaining the old-school glamour while pervading a new, laid-back, urban vibe. The vintage, glamorous ambiance complements the incredible menu Chef Abe Botello offers. Some of their nightly specials include “Whine About Your Work Week” Mondays with a pasta special and wine, Tequila Tuesdays, BBQ Wednesdays and so much more! The restaurant is known for their amazing late night happy hour, unusual but delicious

menu and nightly DJs. A perfect spot to dine before catching a show at The Observatory North Park Theatre. West Coast Tavern is also known for their incredible brunch Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. With off-the-wall, yet amazing brunch specials like the breakfast burger and breakfast mac skillets that complement the bottomless mimosas, you can be assured that heading to West Coast Tavern for a boozey brunch ensures a good time.

HOURS // MON - THURS: 4PM - 2AM // FRI - SUN: 10AM - 3PM, 3:30PM - 2AM // HAPPY HOUR DAILY: 4PM - 6PM // SUN - WED: 11PM - CLOSE 619.295.1688 • WWW.WESTCOASTTAVERN.COM • FB: /WESTCOASTTAVERN • IG: @WESTCOASTTAVERN • TW: @WESTCOASTTAVERN

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IF YOU LIKE QUALITY SUSHI CRAFTED WITH CARE AND PASSION, SAIKO SAKE & SUSHI BAR IS YOUR SPOT.

SAIKO SAKE & SUSHI BAR 2884 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92104

619.677.3907 WWW.SAIKOSUSHISD.COM

FB: /SAIKO SAKE & SUSHI BAR IG: @SAIKOSUSHI TW: @SAIKOSUSHI_SD

HOURS // SUN - THURS: 4PM - 10PM FRI - SAT: 4PM - 11PM

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If you like quality sushi crafted with care and passion, Saiko Sushi and Sake Bar is your spot. Saiko emphasizes quality above all else, and it’s quality that you can taste. Their wild caught local fish is fresh and hand-picked daily by Chef Anthony Pascale. Your meal is complemented by the space, a beautiful and contemporary ambiance with exposed ceilings, local artwork, an outdoor patio, and a striking mural. For Sake enthusiasts, it’d be a challenge finding a place in San Diego with better quality sake than Saiko. The owners are both Certified Sake Professionals, so they select only premium sakes from regional breweries in Japan to complement their progressive Japanese menu of appetizers and sushi. Be sure to swing by on Wednesday evenings for their flight night, so you can try a few!


NORTH PARK DINER (OLD MILL CAFE) 3949 Ohio Street San Diego, CA 92104

NORTH PARK HEAD TO DINER NORTH 3949 Ohio Street San Diego, CA 92104

PARK DINER FOR THE CLASSICS THAT WILL MAKE YOU FEEL AS THOUGH YOU’VE BEEN TRANSPORTED INTO A TRADITIONAL 1950S AMERICAN CAFE.

Head to North Park Diner for the classics that will make you feel as though you’ve been transported into a traditional 1950s American cafe. Their menu offers delicious diner fare such as chicken-fried steak, burgers and meatloaf, and they’ve got these classics mastered. North Park Diner is known for having incredible breakfast classics.

This is the best spot to go if you’re craving an All-American breakfast, as their pancakes, bacon, eggs, and sausages cannot be beat. North Park Diner has the classic American staples nailed and eating there feels like an escape to an earlier, simpler time.

HOURS // MON - SUN: 7AM - 9PM 619.294.3804 • FB: /OLDMILLCAFE

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SUBTERRANEAN COFFEE BOUTIQUE WITH SO MANY COFFEE SHOPS IN NORTH PARK, SUBTERRANEAN COFFEE BOUTIQUE HAS DISTINGUISHED ITSELF FROM THEM ALL WITH THEIR UNIQUELY CRAFTED BEVERAGES AND COZY AMBIANCE.

SUBTERRANEAN COFFEE BOUTIQUE 3764 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104

With so many coffee shops in North Park, Subterranean Coffee Boutique has distinguished itself from them all with their uniquely crafted beverages and cozy ambiance. Some beverage favorites include their delicate Rose Chai Latte, Sweet Lavender White Mocha and Samurai Tea. If you’re vegan or gluten-free Subterranean offers many accommodations and works hard to ensure your dietary

restrictions are met with variety and delicious flavor. Despite the name, Subterranean Coffee Boutique is much more than a coffee shop. Their breakfast options are supreme for affordable prices, such as their breakfast burrito, cucumber delight bagel and jalapeño, ham and cheese croissant. Swing by this cozy nook for lunchtime, with their delicious offerings of soups, salads, and sandwiches.

HOURS // MON - WED: 6AM - 9PM // THURS - FRI: 6AM - 10PM // SAT: 7AM - 10PM 619.780.0916 • WWW.SUBTERRANEANCOFFEEBOUTIQUE.COM • FB: /SUBTERRANEANCOFFEEBOUTIQUE • IG: @SUBTERRANEANCOFFEEBOUTIQUE

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JINBUCHA 3620 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104

JinBuCha serves Kombucha with friendly customer service, unique flavors and a dedication to providing the highest quality product possible. Every cup of Kombucha tea that JinBuCha serves up is made with organic ingredients, filtered reverse osmosis water, fresh handpicked fruits from local farmer’s markets, raw organic evaporated cane sugar, and organic green tea. This commitment to providing a product that is good for the body is directly reflected in the taste of JinBuCha. This local favorite has mastered the art of crafting their healthy panacea beverage to keep North Park as healthy as possible. All of their tea is locally crafted in San Diego and is made raw and vegan to promote holistic healing. Some favorites at this spot are the lavender and guava flavors. Swing by for happy hour specials with authentic Chinese appetizers to pair with your fermented tea and feel the benefits of this powerful beverage. 858.876.5464 WWW.JINBUCHA.COM

FB: /JINBUCHA IG: @JINBUCHA

HOURS // MON: CLOSED TUES - THURS: 2PM - 6PM FRI - SAT: 2PM - 8PM // SUN: 3PM - 6PM

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JINBUCHA SERVES KOMBUCHA WITH FRIENDLY CUSTOMER SERVICE, UNIQUE FLAVORS AND A DEDICATION TO PROVIDING THE HIGHEST QUALITY PRODUCT POSSIBLE.

FAMILY DAY 1 WOW WOW WAFFLE 3519 30TH ST.

2 VERBATIM BOOKS 3793 30TH ST.

3 REPLAY TOYS 2920 NORTH PARK WAY

4 PETES SEAFOOD & SANDWICH 3382 30TH ST.

5 HAMMOND’S 3077 UNIVERSITY AVE.

6 BIRD PARK UPAS ST. & 28TH ST.

7 WAYPOINT PUBLIC 3794 30TH ST.


CAFFÉ CALABRIA 3933 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104 104 EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM // ART ISSUE 2016


STEP INTO CAFFÉ CALABRIA AND BECOME INSTANTLY CHARMED BY ITS CLASSIC, WHIMSICAL, ITALIAN CHARM.

CAFFÈ CALABRIA

CALABRIA@NIGHT

The forerunner of San Diego’s coffee explosion, Caffè Calabria has been carefully selecting, roasting to perfection, and expertly preparing drinks for a truly exceptional coffee experience, for over 25 years.

Experience Italian-inspired nightlife at Calabria@NIGHT. Drink Italian cocktails, birra, vino, espresso, and enjoy certified Vera Pizza Napoletana from our wood-fired oven.

HOURS // MON - TUES: 6AM - 3PM // WED - FRI: 6AM - 11PM // SAT - SUN: 7AM - 11PM 619.291.1759 • WWW.CAFFECALABRIA.COM • FB: /CAFE CALABRIA • IG: @CAFFECALABRIA

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THE SMOKING GOAT THE SMOKING GOAT PROVIDES GUESTS WITH A UNIQUE CULINARY EXPERIENCE, REMINISCENT OF THE FRENCH COUNTRYSIDE.

THE SMOKING GOAT 3408 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104

The Smoking Goat is an award-winning French Bistro that is your go-to for fine dining in North Park. Executive Chef and Owner Fred Piehl was inspired by his European Farm-to-Table upbringing and culinary training at Le Cordon Bleu Paris that he married French and California cuisine with the bounty of San Diego in a way that is rustic, yet refined, imaginative, yet unpretentious. Piehl is dedicated to quality, serving up in-season, local, sustainable, and organic ingredients. The duck fat truffle fries, scallops, crispy octopus, and escargot are some standouts

from the menu, though you can be sure that whichever dish you order is crafted by Piehl to perfection. The ambiance is just as enchanting as the menu, with an upscale farmhouse vibe with exposed-brick walls, chandeliers and curated artwork. The Smoking Goat provides guests with a unique culinary experience, reminiscent of the French countryside. The eatery boasts carefully selected boutique wines and craft beer alongside a culinary driven cocktail menu, which assures a memorable dining experience every time.

HOURS // SUN - MON: 5PM - 9PM // FRI - SAT: 5PM - 10PM 619.955.5295 • WWW.THESMOKINGGOATRESTAURANT.COM • FB:/THESMOKINGGOAT • IG:@THESMOKINGGOATRESTAURANT • TW: @THESMOKINGGOAT

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CARNITAS’ SNACK SHACK SERVES SLOW FOOD-INSPIRED, PORK-CENTRIC AMERICAN CUISINE WITH AN EMPHASIS ON THE QUALITY OF MEAT.

619.294.7675 WWW.CARNITASSNACKSHACK.COM

FB: /CARNITASSNACKS IG: @CARNITASSNACKS TW: @CARNITASSNACKS

HOURS // EVERYDAY - 7 DAYS A WEEK 12PM - 12AM

In 2011, Chef Hanis Cavin and Sara Stroud joined forces to give the community of North Park the “SnackShack,” as it’s affectionately termed. They were inspired by their adorable pet mini pig, Carnitas Speck, to open the restaurant. This eatery serves slow food-inspired, pork-centric American cuisine with an emphasis on the quality of meat. Carnitas’ Snack Shack is dedicated to quality and the availability of local, seasonal ingredients, so the menu changes daily to reflect this. Carnitas’ Snack Shack never skimps you on the meat, making sure every one of their meals has a healthy serving of it. The ambiance also heightens the menu, with their outdoor patio, string lights, big screen TV, and upbeat vibe. CARNITAS’ SNACK SHACK // 2632 UNIVERSITY AVENUE, SAN DIEGO, CA 92104

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WALK INSIDE AL REEF AND YOU’LL BE INSTANTLY CHARMED BY THE WARM DECOR, LARGE SPACE & EXCEPTIONALLY FRIENDLY SERVICE.

Al Reef Mediterranean Restaurant is one of North Park’s best kept secrets. From the outside, you’d never guess how spacious and inviting this restaurant is and you’ll be instantly charmed by the warm decor and exceptionally friendly service. This spot is known for their incredible value - you won’t believe how much food you get for your buck. Al Reef provides authentic Mediterranean food in the area, with an emphasis on providing the best flavors centered around fresh, healthy ingredients for an affordable price.

619.501.6680 WWW.ALREEFMEDITERRANEAN.COM

FB: /ALREEFSANDIEGO IG: @AL_REEF_RESTAURANT TW: @ALREEFSANDIEGO

HOURS // MON - SUN: 11AM - 10PM

AL REEF MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT // 2835 UNIVERSITY AVENUE, SAN DIEGO, CA 92104

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WAYPOINT PUBLIC 3794 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104 108 EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM // ART ISSUE 2016


NORTH PARK’S FAMILY-FRIENDLIEST GASTROPUB WRITTEN BY: ANDY HINDS

WITH ONE OF SAN DIEGO’S MOST BELOVED CELEBRITY CHEFS, Rich Sweeney, at the helm in the kitchen, and arguably the most well-curated brew menu in America’s Finest Beer City, Waypoint Public would probably be packed every night even if the owners had W.C. Fields-level disdain for children. But a quick scan around the comfy, yet stylish restaurant makes it obvious that families are welcome here. The designated kids’ area is decked out with artificial turf, beanbag chairs, books, games, and a big-screen TV that’s always showing a kid-friendly movie. It’s no mystery why so many parents of young kids are regulars here. But what you might not immediately glean from the layout of Waypoint Public is that their support of families and children goes way beyond offering the parents a stress-free venue for enjoying world-class food and beer without hiring a babysitter. A Sampler Platter: Waypoint is the single biggest financial benefactor of North Park’s neighborhood public school, Jefferson Elementary, and hosts a monthly Family Movie Night fundraiser for its foundation. They also host a monthly reading club for families, which benefits Traveling Stories, an organization that promotes childhood literacy. Recently, they added a wildly popular series of children’s cooking classes that is turning our kids into little foodies. Ask your server about daily and seasonal specials. There are obvious reasons that Waypoint Public is one of North Park’s most popular places to grab dinner and a pint or two. But the “secret menu” at Waypoint is an expansive list of the relationships it has built with the community.

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY: KENDRA JEKEL PHOTOGRAPHY

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THIS NEIGHBORHOOD GASTROPUB IS MAKING A NAME FOR ITSELF AS THE CITY’S GO-TO FOR UNBEATABLE CRAFT BEER AND FOOD PAIRINGS.

WAYPOINT PUBLIC 3794 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104

Located on 30th Street and home of many staples in the North Park craft beer scene, Waypoint Public is another stop for the San Diego beer lover. This Neighborhood Gastropub is making a name for itself as the city’s go-to for unbeatable craft beer and food pairings. Waypoint Public is recognized as one of the “Best New Beer Restaurants” in the United States by Draft Magazine and “San Diego’s Best Beer Restaurant” by West Coaster. Waypoint’s expansive beer program showcases a lineup of 100 bottled craft beers from all areas of the globe, plus a custom 30-tap system that shows variety of breweries, but caters specifically towards San Diego beer. If you’re a

fan of beer and gluten intolerant, swing by Waypoint for the largest variety of gluten-free beers in San Diego. However, don’t be fooled, their menu is no second fiddle to their incredible beer menu. Chef Rich Sweeney creates a quirky, unusual menu blending together a variety of styles and tastes. Some standouts include stout braised plums stuffed with goat cheese and wrapped in bacon (Devils on Horseback), the Devilmademedoit Burger and their delicious “Benny Bears” at brunch. This restaurant is also a great spot to take your kids, with a play area to enjoy while you dine and fun activities such as kids cooking classes.

HOURS // MON - TUES: 4PM - 10PM // WED - THURS: 11:30AM - 10PM // FRI: 11:30AM - 1AM // SAT: 8AM - 1AM // SUN: 8AM - 10PM

619.255.8778 • WWW.WAYPOINTPUBLIC.COM • FB: /WAYPOINTPUBLIC • IG: @WAYPOINTPUBLIC • TW: @WAYPOINTPUBLIC

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PETE’S SEAFOOD & SANDWICH

BLENDING THE TASTES OF NEW ENGLAND WITH A CALIFORNIAN VIBE, PETE’S SEAFOOD & SANDWICH IS A DYNAMIC BLEND OF EAST AND WEST COASTS.

PETE’S SEAFOOD & SANDWICH 3382 30th Street San Diego, CA 92104

619.255.8940 WWW.BOSTONPETES.COM

FB: /BOSTONPETES IG: @BOSTONPETES TW: @BOSTONPETES

HOURS // SUN - THURS: 11AM - 9PM FRI - SAT: 11AM - 10PM

Pete DeCoste is a Boston native who opened Pete’s Seafood & Sandwich with the vision of bringing the classics from his hometown to North Park. DeCoste grew up in a family seafood business that made him appreciate freshly prepared homemade meals. As a resident of North Park, he wanted to give the neighborhood the east coast classics he grew up with. Blending the tastes of New England with a Californian vibe, Pete’s Seafood & Sandwich is a dynamic blend of east and west coasts. It brings to San Diego quality seafood prepared in the traditional New England fashion. Their fresh, made-to-order sandwiches let the main ingredient shine. Their emphasis on quality and staying true to the east coast style results in the best spot to grab a bowl of clam chowder and the best lobster roll you’ll find on the west coast, period. Seriously, try to find a lobster roll more fresh and authentic than the kind you’ll find at Pete’s. Your efforts will be unsuccessful. Grab a beer or wine with your meal and prepare to be transported to the east coast with just one bite. ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 111


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LUCHA LIBRE IS DEDICATED TO PROVIDING AN ELEVATED TACO SHOP EXPERIENCE, SERVING UP THE FRESHEST INGREDIENTS, BEST QUALITY MEATS & FUNKIEST MENU ITEMS COOKED AND PRICED JUST RIGHT.

LUCHA LIBRE 3016 University Avenue San Diego, CA 92104

Lucha Libre is dedicated to providing an elevated taco shop experience, serving up the freshest ingredients, best quality meats, and funkiest menu items cooked and priced just right. The masterminds behind Lucha Libre are three brothers, Jose Luis, Maurilio, and Diego Rojano-Garcia, with mother “B” in the kitchen making the housemade salsas. Born in Mexico and raised in San Diego, the brothers had a vision of opening a taco shop with decor that represents the same vibrant, high spirits of its namesake wrestling tradition, while serving up fresh, delicious Mexican food. One of the most unique aspects of Lucha Libre is the decor. Everywhere you look, from the televisions running classic wrestling matches, to the gold Champion’s Booth where you can sit only

if you’ve made a reservation 24 hours in advance, you see the flamboyance and color of Lucha Libre. Yet their menu is just as impressive as the ambiance. Lucha Libre provides delicious food with the freshest ingredients and no lard whatsoever. Some favorites at this gourmet taco shop include the famous “TJ” dog: an all-beef hot dog wrapped in bacon and topped with grilled vegetables, and the “Surfin’ California”: a burrito with steak, shrimp, avocado, fresh fries, cheese, pico de gallo, and super secret chipotle sauce. Vegetarians, fear not, for Lucha Libre has plenty of options for you all as well, such as the Queso Taco with its super secret chipotle sauce. Bonus: if you come in wearing a Lucha mask, you’ll get the Luchador discount!

HOURS // SUN - THURS: 10AM - 11PM // FRI - SAT: 10AM - 2:30AM 619.487.1520 • WWW.TACOSMACKDOWN.COM • FB: /LUCHALIBRETACOSHOPSD • IG: @LUCHALIBRETACOSHOPSD

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TACOS PERLA: AUTHENTIC TIJUANA STREET FLAVOR IN THE HEART OF NORTH PARK!

TACOS PERLA 3000 Upas Street Suite #105 San Diego, CA 92104

Tacos Perla serves some of the most innovative tacos and street food from south of the border right here in North Park. Their tacos range from traditional classics to out-of-the-box, nontraditional tacos such as the “Ocho” (octopus and Mexican pesto) and the “Pink Perla” (adobada spiced salmon). This eatery’s menu also features flautas, mulitas, and TJ-style burritos. Vegetarians and vegans, be sure to indulge in their cauliflower ceviche and their “San Quintin” burrito, full of seasonal roasted veggies and spicy hummus. Don’t be scared to top any order with a traditional Oaxacan favorite - fried crickets!

These masterpieces are accompanied by six different salsas made exclusively for Tacos Perla by Chef Oso Campos of Tacos Kokopelli in Tijuana. And of course, no taco is complete without a cool beverage to accompany it! Their aguas frescas and mango habañero micheladas are made daily and are the epitome of refreshing on a hot San Diego day. They recently introduced “Guest Taco Nights,” where they host different chefs from Baja California and beyond for a dynamic collaboration. Tacos Perla elevates your typical taco experience into a culinary explosion of flavor and innovation.

HOURS // MON - SUN: 11:30AM - 10PM 619.795.0700 • WWW.TACOSPERLA.COM • FB: /TACOSPERLA • IG: @TACOSPERLA • TW: @TACOSPERLA 114 EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM // ART ISSUE 2016


CHOP SUEY PEKING RESTAURANT 2877 University Avenue - San Diego, CA 92104 HOURS // MON - TUES: CLOSED // WED - FRI: 11AM - 9PM // SAT: 4PM - 9PM // SUN: 11AM - 8:30PM ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 115


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INSPIRATIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE

THE NORTH PARK WATER TOWER WRITTEN BY: KATHERINE HON // SKETCH PROVIDED BY: CITY OF SAN DIEGO

THE NORTH PARK WATER TOWER. Iconic. Historic. Big. Really big. Built in 1924 from state-of-the-art riveted steel plates, it stands over 140 feet high from the base of its 12 steel girder legs to the top of its cone roof. It can be seen from the California Tower in Balboa Park and Cowles Mountain in Mission Trails Regional Park. Claimed to be the “largest elevated tank in the world” when constructed, it held more than one million gallons of water, assuring a growing mid-city of plentiful supply at suitable pressure for neighborhood uses, including fire protection. Although decommissioned and empty since the 1990s, it still looms large at an active water supply center operated by the City of San Diego south of El Cajon Boulevard between Oregon and Idaho Street. Soccer enthusiasts at that location may be surprised to learn they are playing

on top of a concrete walled reservoir that holds up to 5 million gallons of water for today’s neighborhoods. Through the efforts of the North Park Historical Society, the Water Tower has been designated as historically important nationally and locally. In 2015, the American Society of Civil Engineers designated it as a local historic civil engineering landmark to honor its robust and unique design, towering presence, and contribution to San Diego’s early urban growth. Its unique presence has inspired artists in media from paint to pixels, and its image has been applied to every canvas imaginable, including the human body. Go out to North Park Community Park at Howard Avenue and Idaho Street for a close-up view of the Water Tower and see if you are inspired to create your own art piece based on one of North Park’s most beloved icons. ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 117


NORTH PARK ARTISTS PAINTERS CONNIE ATHENS MARIA ELENA CRUZ - ELENATHEARTIST.COM THERESA VANDENBERG DONCHE - THERESAVANDENBERGDONCHE.COM

LANDSCAPE OIL PAINTER JOAN NIES

WATERCOLOR PAINTER IRENE GRUMMAN

ABSTRACT PAINTER CHRISTINA ILENE THOMAS - CHRISTINAILENETHOMAS.COM

FIGURATIVE OIL PAINTER JONATHAN WILLIAMS Theresa Vandenberg Donche Speak of the Devil // Mixed Media

OIL PAINTER BRONLE CROSBY - BRONLECROSBY.COM

ABSTRACT ACRYLIC + OIL PAINTER JOHN R. KAZANJIAN - JOHNRKAZANJIAN.COM

MONOPRINT + OIL PAINTER DIXIE MCCARTHY - DIXIEMCCARTHYART.COM

ILLUSTRATOR + ACRYLIC PAINTER DEANNA DITZLER - DEANNAMDITZLER.WORDPRESS.COM

POP ART SURREALIST PAINTER ASHLEY RANG - ASHGNARARTS.COM

FINE ART PAINTER + STREET ARTIST CHRIS SMITH - HOOLIGANARTS.COM Christina Ilene Thomas Terra Incognita (Wild Flowers) // Acrylic on Canvas

FINE ART PAINTER + PHOTOGRAPHER PATRIC STILLMAN - MY-REALITY.COM

FINE ART PAINTER + SCULPTOR JOHN STEWART MCGAUGHY - JOHNSTEWARTSTUDIOS.COM

LANDSCAPE OIL PAINTER + PASTEL ARTIST MONIQUE STRAUB - MONIQUESTRAUB.COM

WATERCOLORIST CHUCK MCPHERSON - CHUCKMCPHERSONART.COM

PAINTER + PRINTMAKER STUART BURTON - STUARTBURTONART.COM

PRINTMAKER John Stewart McGaughy 118 EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM // ART ISSUE 2016

LORETTA KRAMER


NORTH PARK ARTISTS SCULPTOR + PAINTER + ILLUSTRATOR JOHN CARLOS KEASLER - JKEASLER.COM

PAPER ILLUSTRATION JESSICA COLE - JESSICALEAILLUSTRATIONS.COM

VISUAL ARTISTS MICHAEL COLETTA STEPHEN P. CURRY - STEPHENPCURRY.COM GLEN MAXION PIA STERN - PIASTERN.COM Stephen P. Curry Constellation #21 // Oil on Canvas

FUSED GLASS ARTISTS EVELYN LOSS - EVELYNLOSS.COM CRISINDA LYONS - CRISINDA.COM

STAINED GLASS ARTIST LISA MAYWOOD - VERREDESIGNS.COM

MIXED MEDIA ARTIST DENNIS DIZON - DADIARTIST.COM

ABSTRACT ACRYLIC + AEROSAL ARTIST CARL SCHMIDT - ARTANDEYECANDY.COM

ABSTRACT WHIMSICAL ACRYLIC + RECYCLED MIXED MEDIA ARTIST ANN B. GALLAGHER - ABSTRACTWHIMSY.COM

ABSTRACT URBAN CONTEMPOARY ARTIST JASON GOULD - JASONGOULDART.COM Lesley K. Monroe Ikebana

DIGITAL + MIXED MEDIA + PERFORMANCE ARTIST RICHARD BAER CHAUDAVIS

MIXED MEDIA COLLAGE ARTIST TEEM OSBORN - IG: @TEEMSTIGRAM

CULTURAL + PHYSICAL LANDSCAPE ARTIST LYNN SUSHOLTZ - WWW.STONEPAPERSCISSORS.ORG

JEWELRY ARTIST JACQUELINE GORE

GRAPHIC DESIGNER ERIN KAVANAGH - DESIGNCRAFTLAB.COM

EXPRESSIVE ARTIST TISH MCALLISE SJOBERG - TISHART.COM

PEN + ART LINE ARTIST Jason Gould

LESLEY K. MONROE - BUNNYFOOFEE.COM ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 119


@EXPLORENP //

@EXPLORENORTHPARK

HUNDREDS OF INSTAGRAM USERS SNAP BEAUTIFUL PHOTOS OF THE NORTH PARK COMMUNITY. EXPLORE OUR FAVORITES, AND JOIN THE CONVERSATION BY FOLLOWING US: @EXPLORENORTHPARK OR TAGGING YOUR PHOTOS WITH #EXPLORENORTHPARK.

1. @SHOTBYNESHA 2. @ME.K0 3. @JMANNYHERNANDEZ 4. @LA.BARBS 5. @SELFLESS_AFFECTION 6. @GABRIELLECONLEY 7. @CLOCKWORK.APPLE 8. @TRENTONRILEY1 9. @SERVICECOURSESD


ART. LEARN. MAKE. PLANT. EAT. DRINK. GROW. DANCE.

20 YEARS IN NORTH PARK! Originally built as a market, Art Produce houses a storefront gallery, community garden, Tostadas restaurant, ChuckAlek Biergarten, and Stone Paper Scissors studio. Art Produce is an activist business enterprise and community cultural center connecting artists, cultural organizations, schools, urban farmers, and local businesses. Their mission is to build the community and foster civic engagement through arts, education, and public culture. They offer weekly art classes, rehearsal space, gardening and cooking workshops, pop-up dinners, and event rental space. Stone Paper Scissors is a public art studio that integrates community voice and vision into the cultural and physical landscape through art and education. Art Produce Gallery is an artist run storefront exhibition space entirely visible from the sidewalk and was designed to accommodate sculptural installations, cross-disciplinary works, digital media, and performance events.

The gallery was awarded the 2009 “Orchid” for Public Art by the San Diego Architectural Foundation. The jury noted that this award “generated much debate over what exactly defines the ‘public’ aspect in public art... Art Produce is much more than a sculpture sitting in the middle of a plaza. It’s a provocation to think about art in the community.” Art Produce Garden is a public art and performance space focused on aesthetic, educational, and sustainable practices. Accommodating film screenings, performances, art installations, and community events, it incorporates an outdoor classroom and workspace into an urban farm that includes a rainwater catchment system and a PV solar energy system. Once again in 2011, Art Produce was awarded the “Orchid” for Sustainable Design by the San Diego Architectural Foundation and is featured in the fall 2012 issue of Public Art Review entitled “Food For Thought.”

ART PRODUCE 3139 University Avenue - San Diego, CA 92104 • 619.584.4448 www.artproduce.org • facebook.com/artproduce • www.stonepaperscissors.org

ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 121


EVENTS

DON’T MISS OUT

7

NORTH PARK EVENTS THAT YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS OUT ON (WE PROMISE!)

THURSDAY MARKET // EVERY THURSDAY www.northparkfarmersmarket.com

10/15 TASTE OF NORTH PARK

11 /4-13 SAN DIEGO BEER WEEK

11 /26 SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY

12 /15 MAKERS AND SHAKERS

The Thursday Market is open every Thursday from 3PM to 7PM on North Park Way, rain or shine! The Market features over 30 independent vendors presenting fresh, locally grown, seasonal, and organic produce and flowers, as well as handmade arts and crafts, and tempting selections of gourmet food. 2

NORTH PARK AFTER DARK // QUARTERLY www.northparkafterdark.com

Walk along the streets of San Diego’s hippest neighborhood while you shop, sip, and snack at some of San Diego’s most eclectic boutiques, galleries, cafés, and bars. Over 30 businesses will remain open until 9PM and all will be offering specials, refreshments, and entertainment for you to enjoy. 3

SDCCU FESTIVAL OF ARTS // MAY www.northparkfestivalofarts.com

Spend the day with family and friends exploring the historic and hip North Park neighborhood on University Avenue between 30th and 32nd Street. This free festival has grown into a local tradition that includes unique art, vendor booths, live graffiti art demonstrations, fabulous food, craft beer, and exciting live music performances spread across several stages.

122 EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM // ART ISSUE 2016

4

RAY AT NIGHT // 2ND SATURDAY NIGHT www.rayatnight.com

Held the second Saturday of the month, Ray at Night is the largest and longest running monthly art walk in San Diego. 5

TASTE OF NORTH PARK // OCTOBER www.tasteofnorthpark.com

The Taste of North Park combines more than 30 restaurants, microbreweries, local galleries, and boutiques who open their doors on a Saturday afternoon and spill out onto the sidewalks with tantalizing sample cuisine. From cafés and bistros to five-star dining, the event affords foodie fanatics from the North Park hood and from all over San Diego the perfect opportunity to sample an array of delicious and diverse cuisines. 6

TOYLAND PARADE // DECEMBER www.toylandparade.com

Unwrap some magic during the holiday season and partake in festive fun at the annual North Park Toyland Parade & Festival. North Park will warmly welcome friends and family to bundle up and delight in San Diego’s most joyful parade. 7

30 BLOCK ART NIGHT // QUARTERLY www.facebook.com/30blocknorthparkartnight

Art is the backbone to the eclectic neighborhood of North Park and 30 Block Art Night celebrates this innovation. Every three months, North Park galleries, cafés and boutiques come together to host a night for art lovers.


BUSINESS LISTINGS

EXPLORE NORTH PARK ART

BARS

The arts culture in the North Park is the backbone of this vibrant and eclectic community. Art is alive in many mediums, weaving its way throughout the neighborhood through galleries, art supply shops, exhibitions in hosted boutiques, performance arts, architecture, music, and public art projects. Creativity and innovation are what gives North Park its unique vibe the moment you enter the neighborhood.

The nightlife scene has been gaining momentum as one of the most popular destinations for the San Diego party people. With so many bars, lounges, breweries and taverns, night outs in North Park means there’s truly something for everyone. North Park draws a fun, diverse crowd with a buzz of electricity in the air. With all the bars so geographically close, you can bounce from spot to spot seamlessly, hopping from a live music gig to a DJ set to a trivia night to a flight of craft beer with ease.

AKA .................................................................................................................. 25 ART ACADEMY ............................................................................................. 17 ART PRODUCE .......................................................................................... 123 QUEEN BEE’S ART AND CULTURAL CENTER .............................. 16 THE STUDIO DOOR ................................................................................... 23 VISUAL URBAN CONTEMPORARY ART ......................................... 22

BAR PINK ....................................................................................................... 78 BLUEFOOT BAR & LOUNGE ................................................................. 75 COIN-OP GAME ROOM ........................................................................... 79 MIKE HESS BREWING .............................................................................. 77 SPLASH WINE LOUNGE & BISTRO .................................................... 83 THE OFFICE BAR ....................................................................................... 76

SHOPS + SERVICES

TRUE NORTH TAVERN ........................................................................... 82

North Park’s lineup of shops is just as unique and diverse as the neighborhood itself. Where else can you find a dog photography business, a vintage clothing shop, an art gallery, and a waxing salon all within walking distance of one another? Head to North Park to explore a wide variety of unique shops, each with their own particular flavor while still retaining that classic North Park vibe. Whether you need graphic design services, the latest fashions, art supplies or the perfect gift for a loved one, you can be assured that you’ll find everything your heart desires.

EATS

A7D CREATIVE GROUP ........................................................................... 58

San Diego foodies find their haven within quirky North Park. The neighborhood boasts some of the most unique eateries in the city, all within walking distance of one another. North Park is a true food lover’s sanctuary, for every craving and every taste bud. Premium sushi, vegetarian cafés, gourmet coffee shops, artisan ice cream, deliciously crafted waffles, and brunch spots that elevate your meal to a near Olympic sport are all at your fingertips when you choose to dine in North Park.

AESTHETIC SAVOIR ................................................................................. 45

AL REEF MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT ................................. 107

DEXTER’S DELI ........................................................................................... 56

CAFFÉ CALABRIA .................................................................................. 104

DUHS COMMERCIAL ................................................................................. 63

CARDAMOM CAFE & BAKERY ............................................................. 93

FOUNDATION FOR FORM ..................................................................... 35

CARNITAS SNACK SHACK .................................................................. 107

GEOGRAPHIE ............................................................................................... 57

CHOP SUEY PEKING RESTAURANT .................................................. 115

HELLO BIRDIE NAIL & LASH LAB ...................................................... 34

CITY TACOS .................................................................................................. 91

HUNT & GATHER ........................................................................................ 33

CRAZY BURGER ......................................................................................... 92

MISTER BROWN’S ...................................................................................... 32

ENCONTRO .................................................................................................. 94

MOOCH EXTERIOR DESIGNS ............................................................... 62

HAMMOND’S GOURMET ICE CREAM ............................................... 112

NORTH PARK BIKES ................................................................................. 38

JINBUCHA ................................................................................................... 103

NORTH PARK FITNESS ........................................................................... 60

LUCHA LIBRE .............................................................................................. 113

NORTH PARK NEWS ................................................................................ 64

NORTH PARK DINER ............................................................................... 101

NORTH PARK YOGA ................................................................................ 50

PETE’S SEAFOOD & SANDWICH ......................................................... 111

OBR ARCHITECTURE ............................................................................... 65

RITUAL KITCHEN & BEER GARDEN .................................................. 90

OVERLOAD .................................................................................................. 44

SAIKO SAKE & SUSHI BAR .................................................................. 100

PETICURES BY TESS ............................................................................... 36

SUBTERRANEAN COFFEE BOUTIQUE .......................................... 102

PIGMENT ........................................................................................................ 48

TACOS PERLA ............................................................................................ 114

SIMPLY LOCAL ............................................................................................ 61

THE SMOKING GOAT .............................................................................. 106

SLY KING FITNESS .................................................................................... 49

TOSTADAS .................................................................................................... 91

THE GIRL CAN’T HELP IT ........................................................................ 39

URBAN SOLACE ......................................................................................... 88

THE LAB ........................................................................................................ 53

WAYPOINT PUBLIC ................................................................................. 110

THE ORIGINAL PAW PLEASERS ........................................................ 37

WEST COAST TAVERN ........................................................................... 98

THE UNDERCARRIAGE ........................................................................... 52 UNION COWORK ...................................................................................... 69 ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 123


NORTH PARK FROM BEACHES 1. Take I-5 to I-8 east & take I-805 south 2. Exit University Avenue 3. Merge onto Boundary Street 4. Turn left onto University Avenue 5. Head west to the heart of North Park, San Diego.

FROM NORTH COUNTY 1. Head south on I-5 or 163 & take I-8 east 2. Take I-805 south 3. Exit University Avenue & merge onto Boundary Street 4. Turn left onto University Avenue and head west to the heart of North Park, San Diego

FROM MISSION VALLEY 1. Head east on I-8 & take I-805 south 2. Exit University Avenue 3. Merge onto Boundary Street & turn left onto University Avenue 4. Head west to the heart of North Park, San Diego

FROM DOWNTOWN, SAN DIEGO 1. Take Fifth Avenue north to I-5 south 2. Exit onto Pershing Drive 3. Continue on to Upas Street arriving at 30th Street

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION & RIDE SERVICES 1. UBER // www.uber.com 2. LYFT // www.lyft.com 3. CAR2GO // www.sandiego.car2go.com 4. TRANSIT // www.sdcommunte.com www.sdmts.com - Busline 2 5. ZIP CAR // www.zipcar.com/sandiego 6. RIDE YELLOW // www.rideyellow.com

North Park is located in mid-city San Diego, with Balboa Park to the Southwest, Hillcrest to the West, and Mission Valley to the North. FOR INFORMATION ON WHERE TO STAY VISIT: www.sandiego.org/where-to-stay/hotels-resorts 124 EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM // ART ISSUE 2016

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HOW TO GET TO

UNIVERSITY OF SAN DIEGO 8

5

SAN DIEGO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

SAN DIEGO BAY

CORONADO


MISSION VALLEY

8

N W

805

E S

163

HILLCREST

NORTH PARK 163

5

SAN DIEGO ZOO

BALBOA PARK

94

DOWNTOWN 5

ART ISSUE 2016 // EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM 125


WHY I PAINT NORTH PARK WRITTEN BY: JULIE WARREN NEW WORKS BY LOCAL ARTIST SHOWING AT NORTH PARK MAIN STREET

I find just about everything in my North Park neighborhood interesting to look at. I see the brilliant Bougainvilleas cascading over the fences transforming alleys into colorful paths cutting behind charming cottages and lovely Craftsman homes. Perky succulents create a visual oasis on the wall outside Pigment on North Park Way. Recently the Jacaranda trees were flinging their purple remnants all over the streets. June gloom will soon give way to summer and North Park is a great place to live, work and play. It just draws me in!

desert flowers will be sprouting up. The houses are great to look at too. As I walk around I really enjoy the variety of architectural styles of all the places people live. The historic homes and the stately Spanish, the GIll houses and the

CHECK OUT MORE OF JULIE’S WORK AT: WWW.JULIEWARREN.NET

pretty little cottages, those courtyards ringed by little studios, all

ABOUT THE PAINTINGS

I see colorful storefronts and lots of different styles coexisting on

1. NORTH PARK, 30TH @ UNIVERSITY, 2016 Acrylic on canvas, 60 x 30 inches This painting is hanging in the offices of North Park Main Street. 2. ROSES ON GRANADA, 2016 Mixed media on cardboard, framed 22 x 28 inches.

have their own charms.

the busy thoroughfares. There’s the iconic North Park sign, funky murals and the sculpture on the top of the building at the corner of Ray Street, vintage signs and brand new lettering. Art studios fronting the street, the super cool drawings on the top of our parking garage! And all the way down to the unique and happening

3. CAFE SEATING, 2016 Acrylic on canvas, 24 x 24 inches.

Art Produce across from a sleek glass tower.

4. BOTANICAL BUILDING, BALBOA PARK, 2015 Acrylic on canvas, 30 x 30 inches. framed 22 x 28 inches

I have painted the flora and fauna for many years. Now I am starting to paint the houses and places. But I can also see a time when I may need to paint some of the great people of North Park too. Really I can see this being a long term project, there’s always something to see.

126 EXPLORENORTHPARK.COM // ART ISSUE 2016


HOW NORTH PARK MAIN STREET CAME ABOUT & HOW EXPLORE NORTH PARK WAS BROUGHT INTO THE MIX. The making of a brand... the North Park culture of unique boutiques, eateries, breweries, and galleries warranted a marketable brand and organically demanded to be known as a top San Diego destination. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the creative process of making it happen, and am excited to see what the future of Explore North Park brings to our community. – ANNA GAMBOA // CREATIVE DIRECTOR + PARTNER

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A LOOK BEHIND

NORTH PARK MAIN STREET (NPMS) is a memberbased, non-profit organization formed in 1985 for the purpose of revitalizing and marketing North Park’s commercial district. NPMS is led by a volunteer Board of Directors comprised of business and property owners. Professional economic development staff carry out the organization’s day-to-day operations, which include programs and projects designed to improve local business conditions. Some of these activities include: organizing special events and marketing campaigns, fostering member communications and public meetings, guiding streetscape improvements and beautification projects, and technical assistance to and public advocacy on behalf of the districts small business owners. NPMS is under contract with the City of San Diego to manage the Business Improvement District (BID) whose boundaries run along the primary commercial corridors of University Avenue and 30th Street. The BID includes more than 600 North Park business members who each pay an annual assessment that helps to underwrite the work of NPMS. NPMS leverages these annual fees to provide a notable return on its members’ investment in the community. www.northparkmainstreet.com // 619.294.2501 3076 University Avenue - San Diego, CA 92104

EXPLORE NORTH PARK is an out-of-market, tourism marketing campaign, supported by a grant from the City of San Diego’s Economic Development Department. The goal of Explore North Park is to market this vibrant community as a destination for San Diego visitors. By catching the attention of families, conventioners, vacationers, and other tourists visiting San Diego, our goal is to add North Park to the known list of hot spots such as the beaches, Balboa Park, the Gaslamp District, and La Jolla. The Explore North Park campaign includes this publication, as well as the Explore North Park website and social media profiles. www.explorenorthpark.com @explorenorthpark // #explorenorthpark



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