Summer is in full swing, and thanks to our innovative industry, San Diego party-goers have plenty of reasons to smile and shake it across the dance floor.
From trendy wine lounges to all-new venues raising the bar on design, the rise of industry nights and the continued obsession with rooftop pool parties, discover what’s new in San Diego nightlife.
Voyeur: June introduced Gaslamp to a new gothic glow on Fifth Avenue. Formerly Ole Madrid, the new Voyeur features a near life-size horse lamp that fixes its gaze upon patrons as they enter. Images of skulls and eerie Renaissance paintings decorate the walls, while a cornice adorned with skulls encircles the room. Voyeur celebrated a soft opening in mid-June, and the official launch party is on July 10, which will unveil the second room that can only be described as: ““Holy f%$&in’ s#$t!” Details here. (pictured main)
Lucky D's: This East Village bar and grill just got lucky with a complete re-design, now boasting a sleek interior complete with glass and brick walls facing an Asian masked central bar, and a new sophisticated boutique menu paired with a refreshing "Everyone in" policy - no attitude, no strict dress code and a laid back rock 'n' roll vibe. Check out the grand opening party pics on June 26.
Jake’s on 6th: The newest wine bar in town is Jake’s, a swanky new Hillcrest spot that celebrated its launch on June 25 with flowing glasses of wine and buffet-style artisan cheeses and breads.
Happy Birthday Firehouse!: Our favorite upscale restaurant and bar in Pacific Beach – Firehouse American Eatery + Lounge – celebrated its second birthday on Thursday, June 11 with a VIP party featuring hosted drinks and a delicious buffet full of Firehouse treats. Check out rowdy party pics.
Syrah Wine Parlor: In-the-know San Diegans wandered down the rabbit hole to sip some wine at Syrah’s soft opening party on May 8, and new groupies that can’t get enough stayed straight through to the grand opening on June 18 (guilty!). Syrah is an Alice in Wonderland inspired wine bar with a hidden grass door, fire fly filled trees and oversized VIP booths. At the crux of Syrah experience, however, is the overwhelming sense of wonderment upon descending into the bar itself. Details here.
Side Bar: This age-old local favorite reignited the Gaslamp glow on May 15-16 with a VIP grand opening weekend celebration. A mismatched array of velvet burgundy couches set beneath black sheathed crystal chandeliers and a cluster of thirty maroon birdcages dangling from the lofted ceiling are far from the once audacious lime green aura of the former Side Bar. But do not let this prominent facelift deter you – the façade may be modified, but the quintessence of Side Bar still holds true to its original conception. Details here. (pictured left)
KIN Lounge: Back for a second run, the stunning KIN Lounge at Manchester Grand Hyatt celebrated the launch of its summer season on May 1 with a VIP preview party, followed up by a grand opening celebration on May 15. The poolside setting remains the same, but KIN Lounge now offers such party perks as Late Night and Bottle Service Happy Hour... seriously. Details here.
Industry Nights: Wednesdays are the new Saturdays in San Diego, no joke. This summer brings the best lineup of industry nights we’ve ever witnessed. From Wednesdays at Side Bar and Syrah to Sundays at 207 and Bar West, the best San Diego clubs open their doors on traditionally off-nights to give our industry pros a place to party. Details here.
Pool Party Madness: Move over Vegas, San Diego is obsessed with pool parties, and is pulling off quite the rowdy summer on our favorite rooftops. Every Sunday, locals never miss Intervention at Float (pictured below) and Euphoria at Ivy. New to the lineup are Shine Sundays and Chill Adult Swim Saturdays hosted with FIT Athletic Club, both at KIN Lounge.
Fourth of July: It’s no surprise America’s Finest City is a coveted locale for Fourth of July celebrations. From Bikini Week to the Fortune Pool Party at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront vibe and Kaskade at Intervention, show your patriotism at these Fourth of July Parties in San Diego.
Get on the guest list for Side Bar, Hard Rock, Ivy, KIN and more on our free and easy San Diego event calendar.
In my last update, I clued you in to the grand opening of SWAY, Sirén, LOUNGEsix, and 207 and Float at Hard Rock Hotel San Diego, and gave you a sneak peek at the brand new Side Bar and Syrah Wine Parlor. Did you miss it? Re-discover what’s New in San Diego Nightlife: Sway to Siren and Side Bar.

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