591788 Wed Jan 28 23:33:42 -0800 2009 385 3 California 0 4368227 I think we should keep track of this and what opens in their place. Here are some closed restaurants so far: Chive Restaurant Gemelli Restaurant Gemelli Pizza Side Bar Cafe Cerise (although it closed before the economic dip) Ole Madrid Crudo - Little Italy Little Italy Bar and Grille Exy Restaurant Commonwealth Cafe Galileo 101 Tesara - Gaslamp Bully's La Jolla Turf Club (although I think it moved) Wine Encounter Jade Theater Visions There are many more I am forgetting. Please add to thread any I am missing, and what is going to open in its place. Thanks! Wed Jan 28 23:33:42 -0800 2009 155341 stevewag23 1 4370314 the economy didn't get Turf Club - greedy landlords did. They are up and running in La Mesa now. Wine Encounter was closed but has re-opened with new management. I didn't know Commonwealth had closed down. That was the place on 30th that claimed "Late Night Eats" but closed at 11-12 correct? Thu Jan 29 13:32:09 -0800 2009 4368227 91897 MrKrispy 2 4370537 Bud's Louisiana- Closed because of greedy landlords also. Thu Jan 29 14:26:00 -0800 2009 4370314 155341 stevewag23 3 4370761 But it reopened recently Thu Jan 29 15:29:36 -0800 2009 4370537 13239 honkman 4 4370925 Oh yeah, I ran into them one day and they told me about that. Bonita? Thu Jan 29 16:17:52 -0800 2009 4370761 155341 stevewag23 5 4370929 Tierrasanta Thu Jan 29 16:18:52 -0800 2009 4370925 10506 DiningDiva 2 4373428 Commonwealth closed due to permit issues but has reopened in the past few months with new owners. They can no longer stay open into the wee hours (neighbor noise complaints) and now close earlier. Fri Jan 30 12:25:37 -0800 2009 4370314 141689 Ewilensky 1 4371610 I'm pretty sure the economy did not get the two Gemelli operations. Guild, recently closed, may be a victim though. Kinda hard to generalize though given how tough this business is even in the best of times. Thu Jan 29 21:07:05 -0800 2009 4368227 31795 ibstatguy 1 4371920 As others have pointed out, it's hard to say how much of this is really due to the economy. That said, it wouldn't surprise me at all. I know for myself I'm eating out much less frequently than I used to, and I always tended to eat at moderately priced venues anyway. In this kind of economic climate it seems pretty silly to drop $50 on a meal for two considering how many groceries that same money will buy. Fri Jan 30 02:59:54 -0800 2009 4368227 10809 Josh 1 4372167 Hadn't noticed till recently, Hardrock in LJ is gone, French Pastry on LJ Blvd is now Cass St. Cafe. Fri Jan 30 06:26:47 -0800 2009 4368227 149836 cstr 2 4372578 There was also a Boll Wevell in Bird Rock that was open for five minutes. Anyone been to the new Cass St. location? Fri Jan 30 08:30:29 -0800 2009 4372167 12980 stevuchan 3 4373150 Yes, it's very different from the Grill. He's rehired the two principal pastry and bread chefs and they are putting out some very nice product...the croissants are fabulous. The menu is low key offering some of the most popular items from the Grill and he's installed a small wine bar in the dining room. He's changed the interior quite a bit and over all, it's seems to have good potential. This is nothing like the Grill. Give it a try. Fri Jan 30 11:01:42 -0800 2009 4372578 99373 deckape 4 4373300 Thanks for the info, I will try to get over there this weekend. Fri Jan 30 11:48:39 -0800 2009 4373150 12980 stevuchan 4 4657523 What restaurant is different from the Grill? Tue May 05 18:07:18 -0700 2009 4373150 261842 sdnosh 1 4372702 I don't know the reason, but Belgian Frie in PB closed within the past few months. I miss those fries. Fri Jan 30 09:07:11 -0800 2009 4368227 10910 dustchick 2 4372735 I was so sad about Belgian Frie. I am rarely in PB, but I was a couple of weeks ago and started craving those fires. I drove up and down the street 3 times before I realized it was gone. Sushi on The Rock in Carlsbad has been gone for a few months now Fri Jan 30 09:16:43 -0800 2009 4372702 105150 Enorah 1 4373185 The Turf Club is not closed. It is under new ownership. The previous ownership have opened a similar restaurant in La Mesa, the Riviera. The landlord now operates the original Golden Hill location. Since one restaurant has been replaced by two, this is definitely not a closing. Fri Jan 30 11:12:12 -0800 2009 4368227 149239 juantanamera 2 4657538 It's difficult to believe the Turf Club has had landlord issues. It's owned by Timothy May who also owns The Casbah, Southpark Grill, The Whistlestop, and Starlite - he seems like a pretty screwd business man. Has anyone been to the new/old Turf Club in Golden Hill since the change or the new Riviera? Tue May 05 18:10:12 -0700 2009 4373185 261842 sdnosh 3 4660769 Tim didn't own the building. When his lease ran out it was not renewed by the building owner who simply took over the business for more profit. Wed May 06 17:27:31 -0700 2009 4657538 227301 jdwdeville 4 4662298 Even if he didn't own the building, he owns the equipment, possibly the fixtues (depending on how the lease was negotiated), the signage and the name. Why not move the whole concept of the Turf Club including the name considering it is such a well established, sucessfull restaurant. I doesn't make sense. Thu May 07 08:10:28 -0700 2009 4660769 261842 sdnosh 1 4373543 Just read this in the UT online - Dussini Mediterranean Bistro will close Feb. 1 and The Old Spaghetti Factory will open Feb. 23. The Dussini Loft Bar will remain open to guests on the upper floor, the restaurant chain said in a news release. Fri Jan 30 12:52:30 -0800 2009 4368227 43141 rotie77 2 4373726 Good news. I don't care about the food or drinks at Dusini but the bar upstairs was a nice place to play some pool. Fri Jan 30 13:31:14 -0800 2009 4373543 13239 honkman 2 4374258 Ew. I was so happy when Spaghetti Factory closed. That place sucked. Fri Jan 30 16:35:39 -0800 2009 4373543 10809 Josh 3 4374520 Its been so long since I went to Spaghetti Factory. (Like 20 years). Wasn't Spaghetti Factory the height of downtown San Diego haute cuisine back in those days? Fri Jan 30 19:05:20 -0800 2009 4374258 155341 stevewag23 2 4374314 Yum, Spaghetti Factory, you can do better with a can of Spaghetti O's. Fri Jan 30 17:05:13 -0800 2009 4373543 149836 cstr 1 4373807 Cilantro the raw food concept has closed all three of it's outlets. Fri Jan 30 13:59:07 -0800 2009 4368227 10506 DiningDiva 2 4373818 Boy, is that a non-surprise. Fri Jan 30 14:02:27 -0800 2009 4373807 168597 The Old Man 3 4373926 Yeah, I know. Fri Jan 30 14:27:49 -0800 2009 4373818 10506 DiningDiva 3 4374259 Heh, amen brother. Fri Jan 30 16:36:01 -0800 2009 4373818 10809 Josh 1 4376849 Vine Ripe in La Mesa on Fletcher has closed its doors...they're suppesedly looking for another location to re-open. I hope so...we enjoyed not only the store, but the attached grill, as well. Has Dining Diva heard anything? Sat Jan 31 21:53:31 -0800 2009 4368227 80528 DBrooks 2 4376971 Oh not, not Vine Ripe too. I liked the attached grill as well. Hadn't heard anything about Vine Ripe, but it's a hard location. Sat Jan 31 23:41:06 -0800 2009 4376849 10506 DiningDiva 3 4377407 Yeah. Last ad was dated Dec 9. Back to El Cajon for me. Sun Feb 01 08:00:29 -0800 2009 4376971 12123 Cathy 3 4377641 Damn! I was there right after Christmas and there was no indication that they were in trouble. The grill there was a regular weekend lunch spot for me. Sun Feb 01 09:50:32 -0800 2009 4376971 12513 Divamac 4 4377710 They had just put up a sign advertising that they were serving breakfast at the grill part, but we never got a chance to check it out Sun Feb 01 10:28:38 -0800 2009 4377641 23771 JRSD 1 4377895 Hard Rock Hotels bars shut down. I had a feeling that "Vegas" in San diego would not work. http://www3.signonsandiego.com/stories/2009/jan/31/1b31hardrock221015-hard-times-two-clubs-hard-rock/?zIndex=45849 Sun Feb 01 11:36:41 -0800 2009 4368227 155341 stevewag23 2 4378070 Another, so not a surprise... Sun Feb 01 12:52:03 -0800 2009 4377895 10506 DiningDiva 2 4381009 That closure is a management dispute between hotel ownership and club management company headed by Randy Gerber. Owners trying to oust him and cut the remaining years of his contract. They want to run it themselves. Mon Feb 02 13:10:14 -0800 2009 4377895 180283 foodiechick 3 4381049 This would be his version. There's is that he security staff were beating up customers. Mon Feb 02 13:20:35 -0800 2009 4381009 168597 The Old Man 3 4381056 No doubt because the hotel is hurting for money. Mon Feb 02 13:22:43 -0800 2009 4381009 155341 stevewag23 1 4378169 Visions, that sub-par sushi place that closed looks like it is being turned into "Griffs Sports Grille". It seems like there are two types of places that succeed in San diego: 1. Americanized Sushi Bars 2. Sports "Grilles" When one closes, give the other a try. Sun Feb 01 13:30:12 -0800 2009 4368227 155341 stevewag23 2 4379223 Well, that's a pretty generalized sweeping statement. How well a sports "grille" does is probably directly proportional to how closely it's located to SDSU, UCSD, USD or a neighborhood with a higher number of under 30 residents. You seem to imply that there is something less than or undesirable about Americanized sushi bars and sports "grilles"? Sun Feb 01 22:38:31 -0800 2009 4378169 10506 DiningDiva 3 4380211 Agreed. It was a pretty sweeping statement. Sometimes it just seems that in San Diego, the lowest common denominator works. Especially in the Gaslamp. It will be sad when its Sushi Bar - Sports Bar - Sushi Bar - Sports bar on every street. Mon Feb 02 09:48:26 -0800 2009 4379223 155341 stevewag23 4 4381081 Or, they could combine the concept, and open up a "Seau's" on every other block. Mon Feb 02 13:30:20 -0800 2009 4380211 10969 RB Hound 5 4381407 Ha. Good one. You can't say that Junior Seau isn't a visionary. Mon Feb 02 14:54:28 -0800 2009 4381081 155341 stevewag23 2 4388324 Twenty years ago, it would have been: One Italian restaurant closed, and another opened in the same location... ;-) I liked the bumper sticker back then: "Honk if you don't own an Italian Restaurant" Wed Feb 04 16:46:37 -0800 2009 4378169 57971 mikec 1 4380661 This whole topic makes me sad. I can't honestly say I will mourn any of the restaurants listed above, (except maybe Chive, and Cafe Cerise) and I think a fair number of them might have been doomed regardless - but I agree that because of the economy we're likely to lose a number of independent mid to upper range restaurants in SD over the next year or so. I won't name names because rumors of closing are the ultimate kiss of death, but I can think of several off the top of my head whose days I believe are numbered. Mon Feb 02 11:39:23 -0800 2009 4368227 11803 Alice Q 2 4384566 Name some names! I really think that the corporate chains in the Gaslamp will get hit harder than the local independent places. Places like Cafe Chloe, Starlight, Jaynes Gastropub and other places similar that cater to locals should be able to weather the storm. The "gouge the locals and gouge the conventioneer" places are going to feel the sting. Tue Feb 03 13:58:50 -0800 2009 4380661 155341 stevewag23 3 4384901 "I really think that the corporate chains in the Gaslamp will get hit harder than the local independent places." Not necessarily. The chains will probably have deeper pockets and deeper resources than the indy operators. The chais will have some units that are top performers (i.e. generate good revenue and/or profits) that can help defray the losses from the units that are struggling. The deeper the pockets or resources the longer the operator will be able to hold on in a shifting economy. Don't foget, we're seeing cut backs, declines and decreases to a degree that has not been seen in 25-30 years. There are several generations that have never lived through an economic recession of this magnitude. It's not exactly business as usual. Conventional wisdom would seem to indicate that businesses that are stable and well run would have the best chance for survival. I hope that is true because I certainly get no pleasure from seeing someone's business and/or life's work fail. If the business cycle continues to decline and go through this correction it's in, we very well could see some well run places throw in the towel. Those with the funding, the vision and the guts to hang in there will probably succeed. The Red Lobster and Olive Gardens of the world aren't going anywhere any time soon. Tue Feb 03 15:36:58 -0800 2009 4384566 10506 DiningDiva 4 4385040 Point well taken. I guess it really comes down to who has the cash and staying power. Places with high price point, regardless of chain or local are in for a rough one. Certainly local places that "gouge the locals and gouge the conventioneer" are in for real trouble (ie EXY and Osetra) Tue Feb 03 16:22:18 -0800 2009 4384901 155341 stevewag23 4 4386762 I'm sad to say I agree with DiningDiva, smaller, neighborhoody local places will feel the pinch as us locals tighten our belts. Corporate places will just lower their profit margin a bit and survive. Business travel will go down, expense accounts will be tighter, but conventions won't stop, so all those insipid places in the gaslamp will survive. Wed Feb 04 09:30:01 -0800 2009 4384901 32271 Bobierto 3 4384942 I agree with DD. I am much more afraid that good local places will have a hard time to survive. Just to give an example: We go to Cafe Chloe very regular but we have never seen before as recently on a Saturday that we had no problems to get a table at 8pm (at least half of the tables were empty) and that we were the last guests at 10pm and they closed after we left. Tue Feb 03 15:49:53 -0800 2009 4384566 13239 honkman 4 4385836 I am really sorry to hear that Honkman. I really like Cafe Chloe too. I hope they've got the ability to weather the economic storm. Tue Feb 03 22:16:16 -0800 2009 4384942 10506 DiningDiva 5 4391650 I think they'll be fine. They are open all day, so they have a pretty steady stream of customers. They also have a great happy hour deal going right now, called four five six - three groups of appetizers and drinks - for four, five and six bucks. (The frites are four) Between what times? You guessed it, four and six. Thu Feb 05 17:43:18 -0800 2009 4385836 11803 Alice Q 4 4387479 was there for lunch on Tuesday and it was a packed house Wed Feb 04 12:29:00 -0800 2009 4384942 31795 ibstatguy 4 4388701 sad to hear Cafe Chloe was empty and I really hope they survive this recession. They have one of the best pomme frites and dips in the city. However, it's motivating us to head down there again since it looks like it's easier to get a table. Wed Feb 04 19:24:34 -0800 2009 4384942 10853 daantaat 3 4391656 I don't know if I really count those, since they sort of rotate in and out anyway. I think Osetra wasn't long for this world regardless of the economy. I also disagree that the corporate owned places will feel the sting - it's the independents that will feel the squeeze of higher food prices and fewer customers. It's a tough time to own a restaurant right now. Thu Feb 05 17:44:47 -0800 2009 4384566 11803 Alice Q 1 4380939 Heat Supper Club in the gaslamp closed. Now it is Stage Bar and Grill. Mon Feb 02 12:53:05 -0800 2009 4368227 155341 stevewag23 2 4381294 Is it new owners or new concept. I don't think you really classify a restaurant with "going out of business" unless there is a change of ownership or the owner(s) walk away. If a venue closes and reopens as a different concept but with the same owners, they've simply just reinvented themselves and we all do that all the time. In fact, I'd venture to guess that the operations that weather the economic storm the best will those that are adept at recreating themselves in order to stay in business. Mon Feb 02 14:21:29 -0800 2009 4380939 10506 DiningDiva 3 4381326 "In fact, I'd venture to guess that the operations that weather the economic storm the best will those that are adept at recreating themselves in order to stay in business." I find this an odd comment. Wouldn't restaurants that have consistently provided good food and service at a fair price be natural survivors? Why would a restaurant have to reinvent themselves if their current model was working? Mon Feb 02 14:31:12 -0800 2009 4381294 168597 The Old Man 4 4381412 "Why would a restaurant have to reinvent themselves if their current model was working?" I agree. There is no need to change if its working. Hence Dussini turning back into the Old Spagetti Factory. Mon Feb 02 14:55:55 -0800 2009 4381326 155341 stevewag23 5 4381433 Is that what's happening or is that a joke? Mon Feb 02 15:04:09 -0800 2009 4381412 168597 The Old Man 6 4381463 Yes it is happening. And it is a "joke". Unreal. http://www3.signonsandiego.com/stories/2009/jan/30/bn30spag095850-spaghetti-factory/?zIndex=45504 Mon Feb 02 15:13:57 -0800 2009 4381433 155341 stevewag23 7 4381506 That's amazing. I guess their upscale concept was a failure (actually I never heard of Dussini). At the same time you'd have beat me senseless to get me into the Old Spaghetti Factory. Mon Feb 02 15:27:30 -0800 2009 4381463 168597 The Old Man 8 4384980 Let's hope neither happens. Tue Feb 03 16:01:18 -0800 2009 4381506 113696 nileg 4 4381528 If the current model *is* working and the operator has his/her head above water financially and enough captial, then no, they shouldn't need to reinvent their restaurant. But what's a fair price. What you or I may think of as fair (i.e. good price or value for the meal) someone else may think is overpriced and not fair. "Fair" is a pretty subjective term. In the business world in which we've been living good food and good service should be enough to keep a healthy operator in business. This is true and I agree. What we don't know for any restaurant are the operating costs - labor, rent, utilities, advertising/printing, laundry, insurance, equipment repair and, of course, the what it costs to put good food on the table. It doesn't matter how good the food or the service is if the other expenses are too high to deal with. In normal times a good restaurant *would* be a natural survivor. We're not in normal times. Do I think every restaurant in this city is going to go belly up? No, of course, not. Nor do I think every restaurant needs to reinvent themselves. The dynamic and paradigm are shifting and we're all having to feel our way through things no matter what industry we're in. A solid restaurant should not have to reinvent itself but there may need to be some tweaking, modifications, alterations, whatever done in order to ensure profitability, survival and that it continues to meet the needs of an ever changing and increasingly nervous and budget minded dining customer. Your point is well taken, a restaurant serving good food and providing good service at prices most people consider to be fair and equitable probably can survive. My guess is that it won't look or do business 5 years from now like it does now. Mon Feb 02 15:33:18 -0800 2009 4381326 10506 DiningDiva 5 4381660 Excellent points. "tweaking, modifications, alterations" are all smart buisness moves. I just find it amazing when a place Completely Reverts back to how it was before (ie Dussini to Old Spagetti Factory). I think it really speaks volumes to the economy and how San Diego is changing. (and changing back to how it once was). Mon Feb 02 16:16:07 -0800 2009 4381528 155341 stevewag23 6 4381671 "I just find it amazing when a place Completely Reverts back to how it was before (ie Dussini to Old Spagetti Factory)." This would be a fun game. I can't think of any other time this has happened before. Perhaps Chilango's? But I thought it's not the original. Mon Feb 02 16:20:17 -0800 2009 4381660 168597 The Old Man 7 4381733 I was told by a manager at the time, that the reason that they switched concepts at the OSF location was that the new restaurant was a lot smaller than the old space. The Hard Rock took the back half of the space. I now think that they thought they could make a killing on the petco and convention crowd. I guess a full house with people paying 15 bucks for a meal, beats a quarter full restaurant at 40 bucks a head. Mon Feb 02 16:39:18 -0800 2009 4381671 67683 littlestevie 4 4383424 @Old Man Sometimes is doesn't matter how good of food and service you provide, if your landlord gets too greedy you can't pay the rent simple as that. Tue Feb 03 08:52:40 -0800 2009 4381326 91897 MrKrispy 5 4387934 Shouldn't blame greedy landlords as the sole root cause of failure, I don't think and restaurant owners arms were twisted to sign a lease. I believe many resto owners never create a proforma P&L to determine Operating Costs, Food & Beverage Costs and then to see if they could price an entree that would sell and leave them with some profit. The rental market 'was' tough in SD but that's changing as well, maybe they won't need to own the property to make a go of an eating establishment. OK, that was my 2 cents. Wed Feb 04 14:34:20 -0800 2009 4383424 149836 cstr 1 4386970 The long-standing Sun Café, a popular place to grab breakfast on the cheap, is closed and slated to reopen as a Mexican restaurant, says Jimmy Parker, director of the Gaslamp Quarter Association, a trade group that promotes businesses within the district. Wed Feb 04 10:19:57 -0800 2009 4368227 155341 stevewag23 2 4387000 Sun Cafe closed..sad..I really liked that place for a cheap breakfast. My concern on dining is the freshness of the product..they might want to hold on to things a little longer than I would like...I am already seeing things that normally would not of gone out...I can just imagine what else is going on. Wed Feb 04 10:28:41 -0800 2009 4386970 97452 Beach Chick 2 4775528 I hope they keep the building and interior the way it is for preservation's sake. I believe the Sun Cafe has been in continuous operation since it was first opened by the Obayashi family, though it has since changed ownership. There used to be a thriving Japanese-American community clustered around Island St. and 5th Ave. There's something about that shop that reminds me of the Far East Cafe in L.A.'s Little Tokyo, though I've never eaten at either one. In fact I was just in downtown on Saturday and noticed a new banner in front of the Sun Cafe. Apparently the Obayashi family also opened a restaurant named Miyako in the 50's, which even featured sashimi on their menu at a whopping $1.25! Here's a pic I took some time ago of the two Obayashi sisters in front of Sun Cafe: http://www.flickr.com/photos/akatayama/296669037/ Mon Jun 15 16:23:52 -0700 2009 4386970 20300 cgfan 1 4386997 Max New York Steakhouse is closed until February 2009 and will re-open under the name Urban Bar and Grill. Wed Feb 04 10:28:18 -0800 2009 4368227 155341 stevewag23 1 4389038 Las Hadas Bar and Grille opens where Chive stood. Wed Feb 04 22:10:13 -0800 2009 4368227 155341 stevewag23 1 4389597 Yesterday night I drove on Girard Ave in LJ and it looks like that Truffles Cafe is closed. Thu Feb 05 07:38:16 -0800 2009 4368227 13239 honkman 2 4390643 It did, a couple of weeks ago. Thu Feb 05 12:16:14 -0800 2009 4389597 180283 foodiechick 3 4390688 Is Girard Gourmet still open ? Yesterday it looked like it was closed. Thu Feb 05 12:29:57 -0800 2009 4390643 13239 honkman 4 4390762 Wow, that would be incredible if it did. That place has been open at least 20 years, hasn't it? Thu Feb 05 12:51:21 -0800 2009 4390688 155341 stevewag23 5 4390828 Used to be a Mrs. Fields. Thu Feb 05 13:08:53 -0800 2009 4390762 180283 foodiechick 5 4390835 Oooops, thought you were referring to Truffles Cafe. Thu Feb 05 13:10:37 -0800 2009 4390762 180283 foodiechick 4 4390831 As far as I know, walked by it this weekend. Thu Feb 05 13:09:28 -0800 2009 4390688 180283 foodiechick 5 4390903 Good, because it seemed to look like the windows were covered with newspapers yesterday Thu Feb 05 13:27:59 -0800 2009 4390831 13239 honkman 6 4392209 Walked by on the way from bank this afternoon. Open, nothing changed. You may have mistaken the paper in the windows with another retail store or the previously mentioned Truffles Cafe. Thu Feb 05 23:30:48 -0800 2009 4390903 180283 foodiechick 1 4389999 Martini Ranch closed and is now Double Deuce. Not sure if it is same owners. Thu Feb 05 09:26:17 -0800 2009 4368227 155341 stevewag23 2 4390036 Wow, that was my favorite place downtown for overpriced drinks and crappy club music. Thu Feb 05 09:36:42 -0800 2009 4389999 193486 meadandale 3 4390577 I was forced to go to the north county version once. Believe it or not, it was actually worse. Thu Feb 05 12:01:05 -0800 2009 4390036 155341 stevewag23 1 4392212 Blue Coral Seafood in LJ Aventine complex is closed (may have happened long ago). New (looks almost complete) construction is under way behind a fence and the new occupant will be FL based chain "Truluck's Seafood". Ugh. http://www.trulucks.com/locations.php Thu Feb 05 23:35:12 -0800 2009 4368227 180283 foodiechick 2 4394443 I walked by Lot 81 the other day and saw that it had closed and a BBQ place is opening in its place. I never made it there but it was not open long. Fri Feb 06 15:31:54 -0800 2009 4392212 125219 sdaints 3 4407548 Inside knowledge: As for lot 81, It will now become "Frankie the Bull's" Grill, Named after the top chef contestant Francis Joseph Terzoli. Wed Feb 11 11:27:23 -0800 2009 4394443 155341 stevewag23 4 4408017 cool thanks, wasn't sure what to make of the Top Chef thing on the sign. I didn't know that there was someone from San Diego on that season. Wed Feb 11 13:24:10 -0800 2009 4407548 91897 MrKrispy 2 4394924 I never went to Blue Coral Seafood, but this one idiot I used to work with claimed it was "the best place for sushi in san diego". Then again, I think sushi to him ment California Rolls. Fri Feb 06 18:49:07 -0800 2009 4392212 155341 stevewag23 3 4400671 Well, technically, and emotionally, California rolls ARE sushi. They not only meet the definition, but my grandparents (1st generation, sent to the internment camps and everything) always made California rolls, or similar, for big parties when I was little. They are really easy to make large quantities of, and are a Japanese family party classic. Mon Feb 09 09:51:58 -0800 2009 4394924 219435 pkt63 4 4405869 I got you. I think you understood my point. Tue Feb 10 19:02:32 -0800 2009 4400671 155341 stevewag23 2 4394929 Never heard of "Truluck's Seafood". On a positive note, it looks like they have Florida Stone Crabs. A first in SD, to my knowledge. Fri Feb 06 18:50:57 -0800 2009 4392212 155341 stevewag23 3 4400803 We have some great stone crabs caught right here in San Diego. Why spent all the time, fuel, and money importing stone crabs from across the continent when you can have great fresh locally caught stone crabs instead? Mon Feb 09 10:25:42 -0800 2009 4394929 101252 oerdin 4 4405876 "We have some great stone crabs caught right here in San Diego." Not in any world that resembles reality. Maybe if you import them from Florida then drop them in the Pacific and catch them. "The Florida stone crab, Menippe mercenaria, is a crab found in the western North Atlantic, from North Carolina to Belize, including Texas, the Gulf of Mexico, Cuba and the Bahamas." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Florida_stone_crab Tue Feb 10 19:05:07 -0800 2009 4400803 155341 stevewag23 5 4413145 Not sure about the species but "stone crab claws" are a major part of the local crab catch according to NOAA's fish report. Edit: They're called "rock crabs" not "stone crabs" mostly red and yellow rock crabs. My mistake. http://www.nwrc.usgs.gov/wdb/pub/species_profiles/82_11-117.pdf Thu Feb 12 22:15:41 -0800 2009 4405876 101252 oerdin 4 4405877 "Why spent all the time, fuel, and money importing stone crabs from across the continent when you can have great fresh locally caught stone crabs instead?" Because they are insanely good. Plus, it helps out the economy. Tue Feb 10 19:05:51 -0800 2009 4400803 155341 stevewag23 2 4394947 Blue Coral Seafood...Corporate Chain Restaurant Death. Fri Feb 06 19:02:27 -0800 2009 4392212 155341 stevewag23 3 4395244 I had the worst ahi dish of my life at that place. It was Chain hell, I think were owned by some of the Flemings Steak peeps. And Trulucks Seafood is more of the same. Why would you bring Florida seafood to Cal. If you love Florida Stone Crabs take a trip to Miami. I just really view it as an insult, but the masses may buy into it. Fri Feb 06 22:14:53 -0800 2009 4394947 180283 foodiechick 4 4396180 "If you love Florida Stone Crabs take a trip to Miami." I do. And I ship them in, which you can do with Joe's Stone Crabs. Or you can go to Joe's in Las Vegas or Chicago. I wouldn't look at it as an insult. I think it is more of an Insult that a chain like Oceanaire has become the best seafood (in my opinon) restaurant in San Diego (which ships in tons of seafood from other places...and lots of east coast oysters and shellfish). I with someone local would step up. It is easier just to enjoy the good food. Sat Feb 07 11:41:12 -0800 2009 4395244 155341 stevewag23 3 4395257 They were also in that cursed corner location at the Aventine. There's been so many restaraunts that have come and gone in that spot. Fri Feb 06 22:24:45 -0800 2009 4394947 10853 daantaat 2 4396698 Hmmm, I give them a year max. the menu looks real corporate. It is one of those places that looks like why bother. they have steaks, gee you can go to flemings next door or up the street to donovans for probably a better steak. They have some southern dishes on the menu, and that never went over well in SD. Fish, well I would rather have fresh west coast stuff, than fish from the atlantic. Maybe I never grew up with stone crabs, so I don't get the allure, they seemed just ok to me when I had them in Fla. Give me a fresh Dungy any day Sat Feb 07 15:25:35 -0800 2009 4392212 67683 littlestevie 3 4397325 I agree, there is no reason why Trulucks Seafood will work when Blue Coral did not. Pretty interchangable. I grew up on both coasts. Try Stone crabs again. I rate them: 1. Blue Crab 2. Stone Crabs 3. Peekytoe 4. Dungeness 5. King But I love them all. (Save maybe King) Sat Feb 07 20:58:08 -0800 2009 4396698 155341 stevewag23 2 4397410 The Aventine complex is like the cast of Gilligan's island - it's Japengo, Flemings (though I wonder how well they are doing in this economy), "and the rest.." Though, it seems that the Melting Pot still exists, for some reason that escapes me. My wife and I had a few good dinners at 808 La Jolla - I was sorry to see it close. Sat Feb 07 22:11:48 -0800 2009 4392212 10969 RB Hound 3 4398450 We were at Flemings (don't ask why) midweek and it was PACKED. 20 minutes for a table, both special event rooms filled, bar 3-deep. Took 30 minutes to receive our dinners from time ordered. NEVER going back. Sun Feb 08 12:05:02 -0800 2009 4397410 180283 foodiechick 4 4398455 if it was this midweek, it was probably due to Torrey Pines golf event. I would write to corporate with your displeasure on wait times. Sun Feb 08 12:08:47 -0800 2009 4398450 97452 Beach Chick 5 4398561 You're right, that's not typical for mid-week, except for HH. Sun Feb 08 12:56:16 -0800 2009 4398455 149836 cstr 5 4401943 Foodiechick - just to clarify, was this Wednesday or Thursday last week (February 4 or 5)? You were aware that the PGA Buick Invitational golf tournament was last week, weren't you? Eating out in the La Jolla-UTC area in that week is a very trying, and often disappointing, experience. That's when one should go at least 10 miles away from the Golden Triangle for dining out (or better yet, simply hole up that week and be creative in the kitchen). Mon Feb 09 15:11:04 -0800 2009 4398455 10969 RB Hound 6 4402071 The problem was not the food (although I've never thought it was anything special), it was the service...and a complete lack of communication. I've had better service at another venue when we accidently stumbled in during a Governator fundraiser. Mon Feb 09 15:48:56 -0800 2009 4401943 180283 foodiechick 4 4398927 Why will you never go back? Those wait times sound pretty reasonable for a packed restaurant. Was the food unsatisfactory? I have no opinion on Flemings, I'm just curious. Sun Feb 08 15:32:24 -0800 2009 4398450 149239 juantanamera 1 4394768 LOT 81 will be missed, especially their Angus burger was superb; best I've had, followed by El Camino Real Grill at SE corner of La Costa Ave & El Camino Real, La Costa. The new operatorn promises they will continue the Angus, and their BBQ will beat Phil's on Sports Arena. Already closed is the Surfer's Grill at the P. B. Promenade, the 3rd attempt after Da Kine left after years there. Fri Feb 06 17:33:04 -0800 2009 4368227 80530 itsmechuck 2 4396360 El Camino Grill in La Costa closed and is now Grubby's Pizza.... and is now closed! That was fast! Sat Feb 07 12:58:22 -0800 2009 4394768 264150 gotukola 1 4397608 Filippe's in Encinitas is closed. Ate there 1 week & it was closed the next week. We liked it. So sorry. Sun Feb 08 02:53:42 -0800 2009 4368227 163157 jodysd 1 4413105 Is Tacos Mi Pueblo closed in Santee? I tried to go there on Sunday and then again on Wed and both times it was dark and nobody was there. I wanted to try out some Al Pastor but it doesnt look like they are open. Thu Feb 12 21:51:23 -0800 2009 4368227 125004 timbigworm11 1 4415396 Heard Bully's Del Mar is closed as well. Fri Feb 13 14:26:40 -0800 2009 4368227 155341 stevewag23 2 4415547 The only one left standing is Mission Valley, I was there Tues., pretty empty but, a good burger. Fri Feb 13 15:07:16 -0800 2009 4415396 149836 cstr 3 4416376 We were there week and a half ago at dinner and it was packed! Different owner than La Jolla and Del Mar, but still fingers crossed. Fri Feb 13 22:16:08 -0800 2009 4415547 180283 foodiechick 2 4432754 I just checked and Bully's Del Mar is open . Going for a burger this afternoon. Thu Feb 19 11:30:51 -0800 2009 4415396 11783 kitchenhag 1 4430389 Mellow Wine Bar in Liberty Station is RIP. Word on the street is Wine Steals cannibalized them. Wed Feb 18 17:52:43 -0800 2009 4368227 155341 stevewag23 2 4430457 How could Wine Steals cannibalize them? WS opened at least a year earlier. I always thought it was odd that among the first 10 or so businesses that opened in the rather limited mall, were wine bars. Could it be that the greedy landlords cannibalized them? Just a thought. Wed Feb 18 18:17:22 -0800 2009 4430389 43141 rotie77 3 4430691 OOps...was Mimosa (me) that posted above comment forgetting to log out Mr Rotie. His opinions are his, the above are mine. Wed Feb 18 19:32:28 -0800 2009 4430457 10943 mimosa 1 4431188 According to Food Buzz SD, Parallel 33 in Mission Hills closed it's doors last Saturday night after 9 1/2 years - New owners to come. Wed Feb 18 23:14:31 -0800 2009 4368227 180283 foodiechick 2 4432367 I wonder how many of these closings are due to the economic times as opposed to the natural order of the food business. Restaurants have the highest mortality rate of most if not all businesses even in good economic times. For example, in the case of Parallel 33 you have a challenging location with no parking combined with a chef driven restaurant who's very well know chef/owner departed a bit ago (I don't remember the timing but it was before the downturn). With the identity of the food and restaurant so closely tied to the chef, I wondered how it would fare after her departure. I think the same question can be asked of several of the restaurants mentioned in the original and subsequent posts. Another example is EXY. Huge space, sky high rent, questionable location. There could have been other factors such as a limited market for upscale fusion greek cuisine and ridiculous name. Don't get me wrong, I do believe the economy has severely hit the restaurant industry, but it is not the sole factor in the failure of all of the businesses mentioned. Thu Feb 19 09:59:10 -0800 2009 4431188 261842 sdnosh 3 4432427 "I wonder how many of these closings are due to the economic times as opposed to the natural order of the food business. Restaurants have the highest mortality rate of most if not all businesses even in good economic times." That was the point I made when this thread started. It's all assumption. Thu Feb 19 10:12:37 -0800 2009 4432367 168597 The Old Man 4 4432542 I don't see a point to this list either. You can't go check out a restaurant once it's closed, and new restaurant openings are invariably mentioned in other threads anyway. It would be more useful, albeit more difficult, to find out which restaurants are in danger of closing due to the economy and give people heads-up to go support the restaurants that they like. Thu Feb 19 10:40:52 -0800 2009 4432427 268170 zompus 5 4432594 I thought it would be interesting to see it all in one place. Obviously other poster do as well. It is better find see it all in one place than searching all around chowhound like a chimp right? Consider it a "resource page" if it makes you feel better. Thu Feb 19 10:55:06 -0800 2009 4432542 155341 stevewag23 6 4434139 This was what I set out to do up here in the central SJ valley. Simply have an alphabetical list that anyone could update for not just closures, but also changes. Turns out posters find it easier to just report new information, no problem, once or twice a month I just copy the prior list, add the updates and repost. No great effort on my part and it seems to be serving the purpose. Check it out at this link and let me know if there's a way to improve it. TIA http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/571492 Cheers, Dave Thu Feb 19 18:12:02 -0800 2009 4432594 18150 PolarBear 3 4432590 Did Amiko Gubbins leave? We will never know for sure what "role" the down economy played. Bottom line restaurants close (generally speaking) because of lack of cash flow in. Sure there are other factors in San Diego: Idiotic names, retarded concepts, greedy landlords, dentists turned restaurateurs, horrible service, crap locations, overpriced food, chefs that suck. Edit: I guess Amiko left back in May '08 Thu Feb 19 10:54:01 -0800 2009 4432367 155341 stevewag23 4 4445243 She left to become Lenny Kravitz personal chef is what I'd read somewhere.... Mon Feb 23 15:25:05 -0800 2009 4432590 154561 keena 5 4445481 I thought I read somewhere that she went to go work for Specialty Produce. Mon Feb 23 16:43:55 -0800 2009 4445243 261842 sdnosh 6 4445489 She did, but parted ways with them about a week ago. Mon Feb 23 16:46:44 -0800 2009 4445481 180283 foodiechick 2 4436286 ...would have been 10 years this September. the attached bar/restaurant space Blue Lotus was an absolute favorite place of mine to hear music and eat. the chef who took over, Benjamin Moore, was damn talented. it's freakin sad, really. that place MADE the neighborhood. Fri Feb 20 11:34:36 -0800 2009 4431188 227301 jdwdeville 3 4436471 Yeah, real sad. That place kind of "ushered in" the boutique dining wave of san diego this decade. Chive first. Now Parallel. Brutal. Fri Feb 20 12:21:54 -0800 2009 4436286 155341 stevewag23 2 4822029 Ric Libiran, owner of Cafe Bleu, is mixing up his color palette this summer with the opening of The Red Door. Currently undergoing a major face-lift in the Mission Hills spot vacated by Parallel 33 in February, The Red Door is expected to be up and dishing contemporary American bistro fare by late June or early July. - From the trib. Wed Jul 01 13:11:08 -0700 2009 4431188 155341 stevewag23 3 4822996 Looking forward to having a neighborhood option. Wed Jul 01 18:43:48 -0700 2009 4822029 44523 Fake Name 1 4444773 Yellow Coyote in the Carlsbad forum has closed. It looks like they slipped out in the middle of the night. Menus are ready, Silverware is ready and chairs are out, But there is a UPS sticker on the door from feb 6th. The place never really worked, service sucked, and the management seemed indifferent at best. I don't want to sound like T.O.M. but I am not suprised. Just curious to see what is going in. That mall has not filled the old Sushi on the Rock space. The rents must be astronomical in that mall Mon Feb 23 13:09:15 -0800 2009 4368227 67683 littlestevie 1 4446379 Old news but add Bistro D'Asia to the list. What works in Coronado doesn't in University Heights... Mon Feb 23 22:41:06 -0800 2009 4368227 103619 Charlie SanDiego 2 4447507 I heard the Coronado location is laughable as well. Bad Service. Worse food. Tue Feb 24 09:27:30 -0800 2009 4446379 155341 stevewag23 1 4496576 New Listing - Sushi on the Rock on Girard. Don't think it affects the upstairs second location on Prospect. Wed Mar 11 20:48:32 -0700 2009 4368227 180283 foodiechick 2 4496857 The Belgian Frie on Mission Blvd as well as the PB rotisserie are closed... Too bad, I really liked these two places... Thu Mar 12 01:11:14 -0700 2009 4496576 58883 jaysurf12 1 4502380 That's a shame about Parallel 33. I loved that place. I live out in philly now so it's nice to get updated on closings. I come back a couple times a year and I have my list of places that are an absolute must. Cafe Chloe, Nine Ten, Jayne's Gastropub, AR Valentien, Sushi Ota, Mama's Bakery... I could go on forever. I gotta be honest I don't know how people go to Flemings. Everything is so greasy. I'm not spending 50 bucks on a steak. The sides aren't good. Most of them taste like they've been microwaved. I went twice once to the bar for apps and drinks and then for dinner. That was the last time. Definitely not worth it. There are too many other great places to spend your money. Fri Mar 13 13:44:12 -0700 2009 4368227 178216 neener41 2 4502720 Amen, RIP P33! FYI Sidebar is coming back this spring Fri Mar 13 15:23:26 -0700 2009 4502380 221172 glandious 3 4502894 I used to go to Parallel 33 a lot but it had kind of fallen off my list. Went last summer for my birthday and have to admit it was a disappointment. Nothing good lasts forever, I guess. Fri Mar 13 16:36:04 -0700 2009 4502720 32271 Bobierto 1 4525844 Just drove by Daily's on Prospect in LJ, a new sign is up 'opening soon Joey's BBQ'. This ought to be interesting. Sat Mar 21 15:25:42 -0700 2009 4368227 149836 cstr 2 4526648 That can't be good. No self-respecting BBQ person would open a restaurant in that corporate building. Sat Mar 21 22:43:56 -0700 2009 4525844 180283 foodiechick 2 4531515 Daily Grill? Mon Mar 23 17:07:59 -0700 2009 4525844 155341 stevewag23 3 4532272 Not sure if it was just Daily's or Daily grill. Sort of a sandwich kind of deli on the ground floor of what used to be the FEDEX building on Prospect across from (what used to be Hard Rock Cafe.) Mon Mar 23 21:45:17 -0700 2009 4531515 180283 foodiechick 1 4526179 It hasn't closed, but a month or so ago our Sunday brunch reservation at The Better Half was canceled. They said they aren't getting enough business to do it right now. Pretty sad, I loved the two meals I've had there and I was looking forward to trying their brunch. Sat Mar 21 17:32:35 -0700 2009 4368227 276328 Pentagarn 2 4527825 Chef Kennedy will start Sunday brunch in the near future again but due to the cold weather they are not getting enough customers in the moment. In addition, since he is now owner and chef he resonsible for everything and is still working on business paperwork and more changes to the interior and wine menu (wines by the glass, full bottles, more half bottles etc.). He is also currently changing the menu completely (which will change more frequently in the future and will be also regularly (daily) updated on their soon new webpage) and he mentioned that he is simply happy to have a half day of on Sunday morning without the Sunday brunch in the moment. Give them 1-2 months and he will start the Sunday brunch again. Sun Mar 22 13:29:49 -0700 2009 4526179 13239 honkman 3 4529031 No disrespect to Chef Kennedy and his establishment but perhaps, now that he is the Chef and the owner, he should surround himself by people he can delegate to.. Why is he doing the wine list? It seems to be that his plate is full and that can be dangerous.. Just a thought... but I wish them well, San Diego needs to support these type of restaurants. Mon Mar 23 02:38:32 -0700 2009 4527825 58883 jaysurf12 4 4529681 As far as I know he has somebody who is responsible for the wine list but my understanding is that he is currently very involved in some general changes with the current concept of the wine list. (And I guess it is also for him simply a learning process how much he is involved with everything). Mon Mar 23 08:54:46 -0700 2009 4529031 13239 honkman 3 4531668 hey honkman, since you seem quite in the know there, zubin is out completely? i did always trust his wine knowledge. that said, it was chef Kennedy's food that absolutely MADE my birthday last year (crab beignets! oh man...) so I wish him the best, he is the type of chef I hope to see more of... Mon Mar 23 17:52:07 -0700 2009 4527825 227301 jdwdeville 4 4533349 Yes, Zubin and his wife are completely out of the Better Half. I also recommend to get a special tasting menu from Chef Kennedy for your next birthday (you have to call him a few days before and he won't do it on Friday or Saturday when they are too busy). I had one for my last birthday and it was the best meal in San Diego last year. All dishes are always made specifically for the tasting menu and are not available on the regular menu (e.g. souffle, escagot, sweatbreads, foie gras etc.) Tue Mar 24 09:37:23 -0700 2009 4531668 13239 honkman 5 4534372 Sounds great. What does the special tasting menu typically run? Ballpark? Tue Mar 24 13:53:48 -0700 2009 4533349 155341 stevewag23 6 4534397 The last time in December was $60-65. Tue Mar 24 13:59:19 -0700 2009 4534372 13239 honkman 2 4960624 Nevermind, I see the closing was reported further down. Wed Aug 19 17:06:05 -0700 2009 4526179 94428 fauteuil 1 4572874 Saw sign saying Sushi Fix in Little Italy is RIP. Phone # disconnected too. Mon Apr 06 15:50:15 -0700 2009 4368227 155341 stevewag23 1 4575951 Add La Trattoria in Santee to the list. Closed as of last Saturday Tue Apr 07 13:10:29 -0700 2009 4368227 10506 DiningDiva 2 4588415 Wow, that stinks. They were one of the few bright spots in the East County wasteland... Sat Apr 11 20:04:45 -0700 2009 4575951 80528 DBrooks 1 4599324 I saw a sign today in LJ where the old Hard Rock was, 'Opening soon French 101'. Oh boy, can't wait. Wed Apr 15 15:46:59 -0700 2009 4368227 149836 cstr 1 4608169 Ole madrid is being gutted and redesigned...don't know the name yet, but I do know that the owner of airport lounge, mauricio, is designing it...supposed to be "out there" conceptually Sat Apr 18 21:26:24 -0700 2009 4368227 278766 missthemis 2 4702658 It is called "voyeur" Wed May 20 23:20:59 -0700 2009 4608169 155341 stevewag23 1 4609804 Is Hula's in Hillcrest closed for good? Sun Apr 19 17:26:04 -0700 2009 4368227 117131 binkychow 2 4611685 I heard it's being turned into a "Fiesta Cantina", just like the location in West Hollywood. Mon Apr 20 11:01:32 -0700 2009 4609804 18132 Green_Turtle 1 4616229 Epazote in Del Mar Plaza. Tue Apr 21 15:45:41 -0700 2009 4368227 180283 foodiechick 2 4616638 Really? Any details on this? Tue Apr 21 18:02:41 -0700 2009 4616229 155341 stevewag23 3 4617236 Only that is reopening sometime in May with a new name. Not sure of type of concept or if it is same owner (after spending about a million renovating just about 1 1/2 years ago). My source is keeping some details close to the vest. Wed Apr 22 00:34:17 -0700 2009 4616638 180283 foodiechick 4 4618301 Thanks for the info. Last summer was the slowest summer up in Del Mar in recent memory. Had to hurt. I bet they are rushing to get open by May... Wed Apr 22 10:07:56 -0700 2009 4617236 155341 stevewag23 2 4616771 Epazote won't be missed by me, that's for sure. I found it's food, before and after the change, to be lackluster and overpriced. The atmosphere also seemed like a tackier version of Scottsdale; out of the ordinary for SD. Tue Apr 21 18:50:46 -0700 2009 4616229 199931 ginael 3 4616802 I never dug the food either. But tackier than Scottsdale? Is that possible? Tue Apr 21 19:07:53 -0700 2009 4616771 155341 stevewag23 4 4619029 It's only tackier because, unlike Scottsdale, Epazote is/was in a town that has a relaxing, beautiful, confident vibe. Del Mar deserves better than this restaurant. Wed Apr 22 13:16:08 -0700 2009 4616802 199931 ginael 5 4619063 "a town that has a relaxing, beautiful, confident vibe" Back in the days of Bing Crosby. Nowadays, its getting more and more similar to any other un-classy town. Long live The Turf Club: The last bastion of class. Wed Apr 22 13:23:43 -0700 2009 4619029 155341 stevewag23 5 4619633 by "confident vibe" do you mean exclusive, snobbish, and peppered with Trust Fund brats? Wed Apr 22 16:15:39 -0700 2009 4619029 91897 MrKrispy 6 4619726 Possibly. Only these days "exclusive, snobbish, and peppered with Trust Fund brats" means dressing and acting with no class. Wed Apr 22 16:42:18 -0700 2009 4619633 155341 stevewag23 7 4621828 Sheesh times move so fast next thing I know Board and Brew will be taking reservations haha Thu Apr 23 10:02:30 -0700 2009 4619726 91897 MrKrispy 1 4633204 Grappa Restaurant/ Legends across from CAL STATE San Marcos... Mon Apr 27 13:11:48 -0700 2009 4368227 264150 gotukola 1 4651735 Parallel 33 CLOSED????????????????????!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! First Region, now Parallel, I had not heard they closed. This sucks. Mon May 04 01:30:43 -0700 2009 4368227 70144 Dagney 2 4657608 Boll Wevil in Point Loma also closed. Did all the boll Wevils close? Tue May 05 18:33:14 -0700 2009 4651735 261842 sdnosh 3 4657786 The one on Clairmont Mesa Blvd by the Registrar of Voters is still open, as are the ones in Lakeside and Ramona. Tue May 05 19:31:06 -0700 2009 4657608 12123 Cathy 4 4657906 The Lakeside Boll Weevil has been closed for a while now. Tue May 05 20:17:48 -0700 2009 4657786 11001 phee 5 4658554 The ones on Morena and LJ Bvld are now the Cotton Patch. Wed May 06 06:44:50 -0700 2009 4657906 149836 cstr 6 4658615 How ironic, as the old Cotton Patch restaurant on Midway was what spawned the Boll Weevil chain! Wed May 06 07:05:30 -0700 2009 4658554 11001 phee 7 4659707 The operator of the Cotton Patch stores (and many of the bankrupt Boll Weevil locations is the daughter of the original owner of Cotton Patch and Boll Weevil restaurants. Somehow she was able to get access (despite closing for bankruptcy) and convert them under the new name. Not her first go around with Boll Weevil bankruptcy either. Wed May 06 12:07:16 -0700 2009 4658615 180283 foodiechick 8 4660565 Separate companies, one goes under the other is resurrected, same owner, smoke and mirrors. Pity any lender, public or private, that gave a loan to that cause. Wed May 06 16:10:10 -0700 2009 4659707 149836 cstr 9 4661422 I thought the same thing when I saw the new signs go up (knowing her history). So unfair and deceptive. Wed May 06 21:32:45 -0700 2009 4660565 180283 foodiechick 1 4694459 Mukashi Sushi and Seafood Market, jogged by and seemed closed. Hane sushi killed them. Mon May 18 11:53:29 -0700 2009 4368227 155341 stevewag23 2 4721965 Yeah, they looked closed when I went by there the other day. They spent so long getting ready to open that it almost seemed doomed from the start. Mille Feuille in Hillcrest is also gone and I think that there are some other places in the area soon to follow. Thu May 28 09:42:10 -0700 2009 4694459 125219 sdaints 3 4722529 Are you sure Mille Feuille is gone ? We drove by yesterday evening and it looked open. Thu May 28 12:22:27 -0700 2009 4721965 13239 honkman 4 4722867 Yes. Interesting sign, something like "we are closed" and then: "Ownership Relocating", which makes me wonder- is "ownership relocating" a euphemism for "owner blew town"? Thu May 28 13:58:55 -0700 2009 4722529 44523 Fake Name 4 4723937 I drove by yesterday morning and there was brown paper covering all the doors and windows. I didn't want to crane my neck too long to try to decipher the sign on the door and cause an accident. Thu May 28 20:51:22 -0700 2009 4722529 10853 daantaat 4 4736161 It was only a matter of months after their opening that Mille Feuille was to close. The concept wasn't an enticing one, and the whole set-up seemed odd. Sorry to see another business fail, but I was surprised it lasted as long as it did. Tue Jun 02 11:44:32 -0700 2009 4722529 199931 ginael 3 4723116 Regarding Mukashi: I remember signing up for there email list before they opened. They got back to me, but never let me know when they were opening. I ended up never going. Thu May 28 15:20:19 -0700 2009 4721965 155341 stevewag23 3 4725046 Wow how long were they open? I got to try some confections from them at Better Half once, never went by though. Fri May 29 09:07:37 -0700 2009 4721965 91897 MrKrispy 1 4703935 Anyone else get the e-mail from Urban Kitchen's that Laurel is going to be history by the end of the week. To be replaced with a new concept by the end of June? Thu May 21 11:08:40 -0700 2009 4368227 10506 DiningDiva 2 4704002 Yes, that's been brewing for some time, and I got it on Twitter. It's LONG overdue. Always one of my favorites, the last few times I've been for cocktails, your could hear the crickets. Thu May 21 11:27:22 -0700 2009 4703935 44523 Fake Name 3 4704438 I agree the change is long overdue. The last couple of times I was there I got the impression that there was talent in the kitchen but that it was being challenged to execute a menu that was at the top of their culinary skill set, so while things were generally good, I always got the impression that they could have been done better. Or, in other words (I think) the skills in the kitchen didn't always match those need to fully execute the printed menu. And at the prices they were trying to achieve, it didn't always match. I liked the bar and I liked the room, hopefully, the new concept can take advantage of both. Thu May 21 13:33:20 -0700 2009 4704002 10506 DiningDiva 4 4704667 "And at the prices they were trying to achieve, it didn't always match." It almost never matched. The prices were sky high last time I was there (which was a while back when the kitchen closed on me at 9pm on a friday, after I ordered a bottle of wine). I remember entrees being $33+. When you get to that level, your food better be top notch, or you might as well fly to SF or NYC and eat better food at a lesser price. And get better service. And meet a Model Girl on your way out (NYC). Thu May 21 14:42:25 -0700 2009 4704438 155341 stevewag23 4 4725228 ... when chef Brian was in the kitchen I have personally watched the creation of a well excuted, bold and original new dish that IMMEDIATELY got "dumbed down" by the powers that be in order to pacify the clientele. it is a shame to see talent restrained. Fri May 29 10:04:03 -0700 2009 4704438 227301 jdwdeville 5 4725262 You know this makes good sense to me. So many of the dishes seemed like they "missed by that much". While they were good, they missed being great. If the chef had to removed stuff from the original that could be why. Fri May 29 10:14:50 -0700 2009 4725228 10506 DiningDiva 3 4704941 Same here, according to one of their contacts it is going from "fine dining" to "upscale casual" with the direction focusing on "California/Italian". Whatever, I have faith in Tracy. But I am ready for the change and hopefully lower price point. Thu May 21 16:42:32 -0700 2009 4704002 180283 foodiechick 2 4704185 yeah, I always drive by and see nobody there. I really think they took something good (the old laurel) and ruined it. Thu May 21 12:16:58 -0700 2009 4703935 155341 stevewag23 2 4704420 I personally LOVE Laurel the way it is now. My fiance and I had it at the top of our list for our wedding reception venue. I have faith in Tracy that she will make the new concept awesome, but it still makes me a little sad to see that this incarnation will be gone. Thu May 21 13:29:15 -0700 2009 4703935 268484 foodie bride 3 4717971 a personal project: www.changinglaurel.com Wed May 27 05:27:24 -0700 2009 4704420 44523 Fake Name 4 4719040 cool site. I knew they were going to have to change that place. It was on life support for a while. Wed May 27 10:56:10 -0700 2009 4717971 155341 stevewag23 4 4719119 Great pics Fakey and story line too! Wed May 27 11:18:47 -0700 2009 4717971 97452 Beach Chick 1 4729241 The old Laurel was the best. The food was ten times better than it is now. Sat May 30 23:07:48 -0700 2009 4368227 178216 neener41 2 4731203 Agreed. Although its closed now. Sun May 31 19:11:15 -0700 2009 4729241 155341 stevewag23 3 4737863 Good news, you can still get the old Laurel style Mac and Cheese Gratin at Roseville. Wow, good stuff! Tue Jun 02 21:57:42 -0700 2009 4731203 375533 mjill 2 4736027 Good follow up article on Laurel and SD dining: http://www3.signonsandiego.com/stories/2009/jun/01/1n1dine235756-upscale-restaurants-adjust-business-/?metro "Gone are the striking red chandelier and crystal candleholders, and so too is the whimsical, Parisian-style decor that had come to define San Diego's Laurel Restaurant." Tue Jun 02 11:01:53 -0700 2009 4729241 155341 stevewag23 3 4746982 Laurel is becoming Cucina Urbana. Fri Jun 05 17:34:43 -0700 2009 4736027 44523 Fake Name 4 4756605 maybe it's just me, but interior designers and architects should stick to designing buildings and interiors, not overpriced style over substance restaurants where they don't let the chefs run free. Tue Jun 09 10:05:58 -0700 2009 4746982 227301 jdwdeville 1 4730436 Limonz in PB is gone. Sun May 31 13:47:45 -0700 2009 4368227 180283 foodiechick 2 4730876 Darn, sorry to hear that. I always liked their chicken Sun May 31 17:02:11 -0700 2009 4730436 10506 DiningDiva 2 4731202 Yeah, I heard it became some salad place. I heard that closed too. Sun May 31 19:11:06 -0700 2009 4730436 155341 stevewag23 1 4759957 Word on the street is that Dish in hillcrest closed. Can anyone confirm this? If it is true, then another piece of the stingaree empire has crumbled. Wed Jun 10 09:36:28 -0700 2009 4368227 155341 stevewag23 2 4760795 It's pretty common knowledge the Stingaree empire has collapsed under it's weight in debt. I was by Dish on Monday and it wasn't open, but I can't confirm it's officially closed. Would anyone be surprised if it were? I think not. Wed Jun 10 13:41:40 -0700 2009 4759957 10506 DiningDiva 3 4761053 "common knowledge the Stingaree empire has collapsed under it's weight in debt" That and horrible concepts, a bad low quality to high price ratio, lack of beautiful people when they touted themselves to be a place for beautiful people, and lack of mortgage brokers in striped shirts from the mall to fit the bill. "Corporate Cool" is finished. At least for the time being. Wed Jun 10 14:46:58 -0700 2009 4760795 155341 stevewag23 3 4762235 I think that it is normally closed on Mondays so it may still be open. I have only been to Dish once and it was a while ago but Universal seems packed every time I drive by. Wed Jun 10 22:15:34 -0700 2009 4760795 125219 sdaints 4 4762285 I had the same thought too since Terra is closed on Monday and it's just down the street from Dish. That's why I said I couldn't really confirm if it was officially closed or not. It would not surprise me if it was. I've stopped in a couple times by have never actually eaten there. I get a weird vibe in the place, like they're not really interested in having anyone over 35 in the place. Wed Jun 10 23:16:26 -0700 2009 4762235 10506 DiningDiva 5 4763938 I was definatly a clubby sort of place. I took a peek on a Friday or Saturday somewhere around 6:00pm. Not only were there no patrons, the place looked closed and there were no employees around, but the place was completely open. After strolling around for a while, some guy walked through and said they the usually don't get really busy until after 9 or 10pm! I kind of reminded me of the space that is currently/formerly Aubergine and all of it's incarnations. The restaurant was just a way to get you into the club, not a complete thought unto itself. BTW, is Aubergine still in existence? Thu Jun 11 12:10:35 -0700 2009 4762285 261842 sdnosh 6 4764617 I have been by Aubergine on many a thursday and friday night (although not in a while) and it always seemed closed. I really doubt if it is still open. Thu Jun 11 15:40:08 -0700 2009 4763938 155341 stevewag23 7 4768651 Aubergine is closed, and let go of all their longtime staff, to reopen as a crobar Fri Jun 12 20:21:06 -0700 2009 4764617 227301 jdwdeville 8 4769798 This may be silly question but crobar is a restaurant also or just a bar? Sat Jun 13 12:02:40 -0700 2009 4768651 261842 sdnosh 8 4770520 When did Aubergine officially close? I am guessing this has no relation to the legendary Crobar originally from Chicago that opened in Miami Beach, NYC (both now closed I think) and Buenos Aires among other places. Correct? Sat Jun 13 18:18:38 -0700 2009 4768651 155341 stevewag23 9 4783211 don't have the answer to either of these... the info is from a couple of friends who worked there and were let go (read: fired) along with everyone else. Wed Jun 17 20:20:51 -0700 2009 4770520 227301 jdwdeville 2 4763626 Just got word from someone in the now that Dish will only be open for Sunday Brunch for the next six weeks or so. Said to be reworking the entire restaurant concept. Thu Jun 11 10:45:42 -0700 2009 4759957 180283 foodiechick 3 4773276 Open once a week for brunch? Who would want to eat at a restaurant that is serving only once a week? Makes me question the freshness of what will be served the following week... Mon Jun 15 01:15:46 -0700 2009 4763626 133818 LisaSD 4 4773377 Probably trying to sell the place and this may be a way to show their still open. Can't imagine how they're paying the bills. Mon Jun 15 04:42:15 -0700 2009 4773276 149836 cstr 1 4775098 Crescent Heights, downtown. Gone. Mon Jun 15 14:05:29 -0700 2009 4368227 154091 pickypicky 2 4775182 Confirmed? If it is, it doesn't surprise me. Tough location, high price point, food probably too advanced for SD and opened just as the economy plummeted. It is really just a question of how big a bankroll they have to stay open. Every time I rolled by it seemed empty. It got good reviews on this board and 4.5 stars with a lot of reviews on yelp. Really shows how difficult a restaurant enviornment San Diego is. Especially for higher end food/ enviornment. If it is indeed closed, this is another "high profile" chef with some pedigree that has gone down. 2nd Wolfgang Puck alum to go down as well. Jason Siebert being the other (who had a really good restaurant called cafe cerise.) Mon Jun 15 14:30:09 -0700 2009 4775098 155341 stevewag23 2 4775209 That's a big wow, yet somehow not surprised. They are closed on Sunday and Monday, was it one of those days? Mon Jun 15 14:39:40 -0700 2009 4775098 180283 foodiechick 2 4775472 They were open Friday... Mon Jun 15 16:05:10 -0700 2009 4775098 272034 The Office Goat 3 4776469 Took a look inside at 5:30 pm, and it was completely dark. Anyone else have confirmation on this one? Mon Jun 15 21:49:50 -0700 2009 4775472 155341 stevewag23 4 4776501 If that was today, they are closed on MONDAY. Mon Jun 15 22:10:31 -0700 2009 4776469 180283 foodiechick 5 4776676 They closed as of this evening. Confirmed to me from several employees. They let go of they're sommelier 2 weeks ago and business has continued to be dead so the plug was pulled. Employees complained about location being dead after dark and no easy parking in front of restaurant. Ate there a couple of times and food was wonderful. Really sad for SD food scene. Tue Jun 16 00:40:08 -0700 2009 4776501 1084037 Haute_Sauce 6 4778797 Man, I think they spent more time "under construction/Coming soon" than they did open. I pray it is replaced with a solid Vietnamese pho/sandwich place. Tue Jun 16 13:50:27 -0700 2009 4776676 272034 The Office Goat 7 4779152 "I pray it is replaced with a solid Vietnamese pho/sandwich place." That would be great. But I wouldn't hold my breath, the rent in that space has got to be high. My bet is it stays vacant for a while, until another brave chef steps forward. Either that or another fudruckers. Tue Jun 16 15:28:09 -0700 2009 4778797 155341 stevewag23 8 4779175 Hey, I could live with paying an extra buck per sandwich to pay for their overhead. ;-) But you're right, the space will probably stay vacant for a year and then be filled by another superfluous bank. Tue Jun 16 15:35:09 -0700 2009 4779152 272034 The Office Goat 9 4780138 "I could live with paying an extra buck per sandwich" Hell, I would pay double. Tue Jun 16 22:38:01 -0700 2009 4779175 155341 stevewag23 5 4777778 It was on Monday. Tue Jun 16 09:40:26 -0700 2009 4776501 155341 stevewag23 4 4777949 Yes, confirmed. Tue Jun 16 10:15:22 -0700 2009 4776469 44523 Fake Name 5 4783130 "You try to hold on as long as we can," McIntyre said. "We have gotten great accolades and great response from people in San Diego. But it didn't make sense anymore. We are a small time operator and we are not backed by a big corporation that can wait out the downturn." http://www.signonsandiego.com/entertainment/street/2009/06/bitter_end_acclaimed_crescent.html I wonder if Jai in La Jolla is next. Could this be a San Diego Wolfgang Puck Curse? Wed Jun 17 19:49:53 -0700 2009 4777949 155341 stevewag23 6 4785027 Come to think of it, didn't Wolfgang Puck try to open a restaurant in San Diego in the 90's that folded too? Thu Jun 18 12:11:37 -0700 2009 4783130 155341 stevewag23 7 4786026 he had one of those casual restaurants in Mission Valley Mall where the Outback is now. Not sure if he also had an upscale place in addition to it. Thu Jun 18 18:18:29 -0700 2009 4785027 91897 MrKrispy 8 4786397 You are right. He only had Wolfgang Puck Cafe in MV (one of his casual chain properties). Wanted to buy Top of the Cove, but owner wanted too much $$$. Thu Jun 18 21:20:31 -0700 2009 4786026 180283 foodiechick 9 4788707 Too bad that Top of the Cove didn't work out. I bet he could have made that one work. Fri Jun 19 16:12:42 -0700 2009 4786397 10506 DiningDiva 1 4823549 According to this post Better Half has closed. Anyone? http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/633328 Wed Jul 01 23:23:38 -0700 2009 4368227 180283 foodiechick 2 4827558 seems like it is official. Huge loss. Fri Jul 03 11:22:04 -0700 2009 4823549 155341 stevewag23 1 4848810 Milles Feuille , Hillcrest. Oceanaire (national) files for bankruptcy. Sat Jul 11 07:29:16 -0700 2009 4368227 154091 pickypicky 2 4849350 "Oceanaire (national) files for bankruptcy." Wow. "The company said in its bankruptcy filing that it owes between $10 million and $50 million to at least 50 creditors. It estimates its assets at $1 million to $10 million." Sat Jul 11 12:30:18 -0700 2009 4848810 155341 stevewag23 3 4849485 The newspaper said they were keeping several restaurants open, including San Diego, and only closing the under performing restaurants. That being said, sometimes the assets get sold to cover the debt. Sat Jul 11 13:43:11 -0700 2009 4849350 261842 sdnosh 4 4849597 Yep. I think the san diego one is probably one of their better preforming ones (top chef hype, good reviews on here, word of mouth, lack of competition in gaslamp etc) Although that is just a guess. Wow, if that place closed in san diego, san diego would be lookiing very circa 90's. Sat Jul 11 14:31:59 -0700 2009 4849485 155341 stevewag23 5 4849660 The U/T article quoted Brian Malarkey as saying the SD branch of Oceanaire was the #2 unit in the chain. The article also went on to say that Oceanaire was closing 4 under performing units and listed them. Article was in the Business section, on Thursday IIRC. Sat Jul 11 15:09:55 -0700 2009 4849597 10506 DiningDiva 6 4849830 Any idea as to #1? Sat Jul 11 16:51:38 -0700 2009 4849660 155341 stevewag23 7 4850126 Washington D.C. I think, but you can go to SignOnSanDiego and find the article Sat Jul 11 19:15:22 -0700 2009 4849830 10506 DiningDiva 8 4850162 They are closing the Philly one. Not sure of the others. Brian Malarkey says so far SD is safe. That place is always packed so I hope so. Sat Jul 11 19:34:24 -0700 2009 4850126 154561 keena 9 4853779 "always packed" Nowhere close to it was two years ago. Mon Jul 13 09:40:21 -0700 2009 4850162 155341 stevewag23 1 4859295 It looks like Casa de Madera has closed for the second time. After struggling for a while they closed a few months ago and then recently I noticed that they had reopened with a cheaper version of the menu. Now they have closed again and there is a sign saying that a new place called Banana Leaf will be opening. It is supposed to be Southern Indian food. Tue Jul 14 18:55:48 -0700 2009 4368227 125219 sdaints 2 4859349 Where is that spot? Tue Jul 14 19:13:53 -0700 2009 4859295 155341 stevewag23 3 4859747 It is on 5th, in between University and Washington. I thought it was a little strange that they are opening an Indian place across the street from Bombay, although it might be a totally different take on it. Tue Jul 14 22:34:30 -0700 2009 4859349 125219 sdaints 4 4861377 The Monsoon Group that operates that space also owns and operates Bombay. They are trying to replicate what the Cohen Group does. Wed Jul 15 12:15:12 -0700 2009 4859747 10506 DiningDiva 5 4861798 Either that, or they are trying to turn that corner of Hillcrest into downtown Little India. :) Wed Jul 15 14:08:50 -0700 2009 4861377 10969 RB Hound 6 4861837 Cool. We need more ethnic neighborhoods in San Diego. Wed Jul 15 14:21:20 -0700 2009 4861798 155341 stevewag23 6 4862011 They also been trying to get a concept to fly in the old Starbucks location at 5th and Washington. I think it was called something like Cofe Cafe. I'm not sure it is anything right now. Wed Jul 15 15:17:43 -0700 2009 4861798 10506 DiningDiva 7 4863086 Yep. New sign that I saw tonight: "Kona Coffee Coming Soon"!?!? Wed Jul 15 23:26:29 -0700 2009 4862011 180283 foodiechick 1 4864253 Looks like Lucky D's is on the ropes in the "hip" east village. http://www.signonsandiego.com/entertainment/street/2009/07/lucky_ds_big_trouble_in.html Thu Jul 16 10:03:31 -0700 2009 4368227 155341 stevewag23 1 4871925 Tastes (Restaurant/Winebar) in Encinitas is closed Sun Jul 19 12:42:57 -0700 2009 4368227 13239 honkman 2 4876053 Closed for over a month. Word is Third Corner helped hasten their demise. Mon Jul 20 20:10:15 -0700 2009 4871925 117131 binkychow 1 4878512 La Vache and Viva Pasta in Hillcrest. Tue Jul 21 15:09:23 -0700 2009 4368227 180283 foodiechick 2 4879537 La Vache? Confirmed? Viva Pasta, can't say that was a shocker. Tue Jul 21 21:59:40 -0700 2009 4878512 155341 stevewag23 3 4880228 I heard that La Vache closed also. Were was Viva Pasta? Wed Jul 22 07:14:49 -0700 2009 4879537 261842 sdnosh 4 4880451 a little strip mall in hillcrest. there used to be a capriottis sandwich place there that also closed Wed Jul 22 08:09:45 -0700 2009 4880228 155341 stevewag23 2 4880843 wow La Vache has been there since I can remember. Although, I can't remember the last time I had brunch there that wasn't a disappointment either. Wed Jul 22 09:44:30 -0700 2009 4878512 91897 MrKrispy 1 4905390 Months of rumors have finally proven true. Jack's La Jolla was closed sometime this week, all doors are locked up, no explanation signage. Thu Jul 30 21:18:09 -0700 2009 4368227 180283 foodiechick 2 4905511 Additional info: http://bit.ly/167zoW Thu Jul 30 23:03:48 -0700 2009 4905390 180283 foodiechick 2 4906302 Another catastrophic san diego defeat. Looks like Tony Disalvo exited at the right time. Fri Jul 31 08:59:20 -0700 2009 4905390 155341 stevewag23 3 4907192 It sounds like there was more to this than just the economy (sort of like the Better Half situation), and perhaps Disalvo was aware of the "more." Fri Jul 31 13:42:26 -0700 2009 4906302 10969 RB Hound 4 4908081 And in that article in the UT today, George Hauer pretty much said they'll be more to come. yikes. Fri Jul 31 20:04:25 -0700 2009 4907192 154561 keena 1 4906755 Also Blu Wave Mediterranean in La Jolla. Always wondered how they stayed open so long. This leaves two really prominent restaurant spaces vacant in prime locations. Fri Jul 31 11:09:00 -0700 2009 4368227 180283 foodiechick 1 4907238 For those residing in the culinary non-mecca of East County, I think Vinny's Brooklyn Pizza in Alpine just went under. Their phone number was disconnected last week. Vinny was making excellent pizza and thus by default became one of maybe three places out here that was acceptable. Fri Jul 31 13:54:12 -0700 2009 4368227 70144 Dagney 1 4908278 And yet Olive Garden and Red Lobster pummel the landscape like a one-two punch, with a finishing under hook by the Cheesecake Craptory. This is so so sad. Fri Jul 31 22:57:06 -0700 2009 4368227 70144 Dagney 1 4914309 According to the UT and another well placed source, Modus Supper Club in Banker's Hill closed a week ago friday. "Was working on another concept, but didn't pan out." Mon Aug 03 14:55:24 -0700 2009 4368227 180283 foodiechick 2 4914797 I am surprised Modus lasted that long. I read somewhere that they were trying to change the name to Modus Gastro Bar. Biting off Jaynes Gastropubs style. I think the thing that drove the steak through the heart of Modus Supper Club was when Starlite Lounge opened. It split the local population (Bankers Hill, Middletown, Mission Hills) in half (at best). There was no point in going to Modus, when Starlite served similar food, possibly better food. It is sad that Modus closed. It was a place that tried to do good late night dining. They found, like many other places, that people in San Diego do not eat late. No matter what. Their food was also a little to advanced for peoples tastes in this town. Mon Aug 03 18:19:32 -0700 2009 4914309 155341 stevewag23 2 4919994 Modus Supper Club was voted best new restaurant a few years ago. So was Crescent Heights. Getting voted "best new restaurant" must be the kiss of death. Wed Aug 05 11:37:52 -0700 2009 4914309 155341 stevewag23 3 4920006 Best new is good. Best new that can last is better. Wed Aug 05 11:40:55 -0700 2009 4919994 154091 pickypicky 1 4920053 Airport Lounge is closing. Going to turn into a 2nd location for El Camino (same owners). Wed Aug 05 11:51:38 -0700 2009 4368227 155341 stevewag23 2 4921161 Really? Can't see that spot working out any better for El Camino. It's a dead spot. Much like Barrio Logan was for the Guild, and that stretch of University was for the Better Half. It may have proximity to other interesting things in the area, but the fact that there is ZERO foot traffic on the street, no decent non-metered parking, and the fact that the corner is invisible when on any of the busier cross-streets around it, makes it very risky. Not to mention that the Lucha Libre taco shop is nearby, with the exact same theme, and cheaper. However, if El Camino inherits Airport Lounge's full liquor license, then at last that place will be able to serve a proper Margarita. It is absolutely pointless to be a sitdown Mexican joint in this town (or any town for that matter) and only be able to serve Margaritas with Agave wine. Wed Aug 05 17:26:38 -0700 2009 4920053 189270 cookieshoes 3 4921581 "It's a dead spot." Don't forget, from 2004 to 2006 Airport lounge was arguably one of the hottest spots in town (a respectable run, until competition exploded in this town: Stingaree, Ivy, Hard rock, Se Hotel, Confidential, etc) "no decent non-metered parking" The used car lot across the street folded. They might be able to use that. Columbia is a block away. "if El Camino inherits Airport Lounge's full liquor license" They will. El Camino and Airport have the same owners. Although, I do agree it is risky , this place has the potential to be a restaurant that transition into a nightclub successfully (a trick that no place in san diego has ever done). But odds are against that trick. I Wed Aug 05 20:27:49 -0700 2009 4921161 155341 stevewag23 1 4931698 Hawthorne Restaurant and Lounge on University looked like it was closed when we drove by today. Sun Aug 09 18:02:50 -0700 2009 4368227 13239 honkman 2 4937192 I've heard that Hawthorne is going to reopen with a more "casual" and inexpensive menu. Tue Aug 11 12:34:02 -0700 2009 4931698 43141 rotie77 3 4937463 Didn't that place used to be on Hawthorne street? Tue Aug 11 13:47:15 -0700 2009 4937192 155341 stevewag23 4 4937840 Yeah, they moved there when the new theater started up. Wonder if they'd like the old place back? Tue Aug 11 15:49:47 -0700 2009 4937463 43141 rotie77 2 4942200 I walked by Hawthorne today. The sign said something to the effect of "Closed for painting and cleaning". So, they are either taking the time to do a menu-overhaul and interior re-design (a la Laurel->Cucina Urbana), or they really are just doing some simple painting and cleaning. Wed Aug 12 23:06:52 -0700 2009 4931698 189270 cookieshoes 1 4938728 Tastes in Encinitas is now closed. It was a wine-store-in a restaurant concept that served quite good food. Owner announced he was selling all his wine at half off while he developed a new concept. So far the concept is a closed sign in the window. Tue Aug 11 22:00:50 -0700 2009 4368227 12536 PGB 2 4940362 Too bad. I like the "wine-store-in a restaurant concept". Wed Aug 12 11:50:09 -0700 2009 4938728 155341 stevewag23 1 4950670 The Little Fish Market in Mission Valley is closed. There is a liquor license application on the window, so I guess another restaurant is opening there. I will have to stop and read the posting. I will miss the lobster salad sandwich. Sun Aug 16 10:40:39 -0700 2009 4368227 12513 Divamac 2 4950743 Yeah, I saw that Thursday morning driving in to work. I noticed that all the signage had been removed from the building and saw the new liquor license app in window. I'll miss it too, it was always a reliable option for Mission Valley. Sun Aug 16 11:15:28 -0700 2009 4950670 10506 DiningDiva 3 4976377 A Mexican restaurant and margarita bar is going into the former Little Fish Market space. Tue Aug 25 11:17:15 -0700 2009 4950743 12513 Divamac 2 5092815 I phoned the Fish Market corporate office to find out if maybe the Little Fish Market was simply moving, but NO! It's gone. Will miss the casual ambiance and crab-stuffed avocado as well as spicy red chowder with sourdough. Good location and prices much lower than at the "big" fish Markets. Fri Oct 09 22:56:16 -0700 2009 4950670 1105165 millerowski 1 4968512 Redzone sports bar and grill closed. But opening again under new owners. Sat Aug 22 14:17:02 -0700 2009 4368227 155341 stevewag23 2 4978354 Such a loss. One less "grill" in San Diego. Tue Aug 25 22:31:45 -0700 2009 4968512 70144 Dagney 1 5000246 California Cuisine in Hillcrest is closed. It will reopen under different management as an Italian restaurant. Wed Sep 02 15:55:00 -0700 2009 4368227 13239 honkman 2 5001029 goody Wed Sep 02 21:44:04 -0700 2009 5000246 70144 Dagney 1 5000249 Miami Grille in Poway..was a very popular place. Wed Sep 02 15:58:51 -0700 2009 4368227 97452 Beach Chick 2 5093814 Closed in Poway on Fathers Day - still in UTC with live salsa music 3 nights a week pending new Liquor License - and a new one opening in Temecular early 2010 Sat Oct 10 14:37:08 -0700 2009 5000249 173480 CarlinCarlsbad 1 5001073 Peking Palace in UTC. Just noticed it this weekend. Wed Sep 02 22:08:43 -0700 2009 4368227 10853 daantaat 2 5001105 I think that's already closed for about 5-6 months (and not really a big loss, whereas California Cuisine was not a cutting-edge food destination but a quite good restaurant which had some good dishes.) Wed Sep 02 22:40:16 -0700 2009 5001073 13239 honkman 3 5004011 you're probably right, as I haven't been to that part of UTC for a while and probably overlooked the dark windows and all. definitely not a big loss. Thu Sep 03 21:45:03 -0700 2009 5001105 10853 daantaat 1 5017124 According to Yelp, Sammy Sushi in Kearny Mesa closed. Disappointing, I liked that place, even though I hadn't been there in a while. Wed Sep 09 13:40:11 -0700 2009 4368227 76600 mayache 1 5036017 Illume Bistro announced they are closing soon (maybe end of week?) on Twitter this evening. Everything 1/2 off the rest of this week. Wed Sep 16 22:17:06 -0700 2009 4368227 180283 foodiechick 2 5037481 Is that the place in little italy? They actually seemed like they had a following. Thu Sep 17 12:51:43 -0700 2009 5036017 155341 stevewag23 1 5041791 Cotton Patch in LJ closed, what a loss, not certain I can continue without it. Sat Sep 19 07:34:21 -0700 2009 4368227 149836 cstr 2 5041948 Didn't it just open a few months ago? Sat Sep 19 08:48:53 -0700 2009 5041791 261842 sdnosh 3 5042161 Yah, it was a re-name of the previous place, unfortunately bad is bad. Sat Sep 19 10:59:29 -0700 2009 5041948 149836 cstr 1 5050527 Cafe Eleven is closing in Hillcrest Tue Sep 22 17:02:13 -0700 2009 4368227 13239 honkman 2 5052715 Being replaced by another restaurant run by Chris Shaw, the owner of Urban Mo's and Baja Bettys. Wed Sep 23 11:59:57 -0700 2009 5050527 18132 Green_Turtle 3 5053148 Both restaurants are at least not a good indication that Cafe Eleven will be replaced by something good. Wed Sep 23 14:17:51 -0700 2009 5052715 13239 honkman 4 5053409 ROTFL Wed Sep 23 15:50:37 -0700 2009 5053148 10506 DiningDiva 5 5061926 Haha, I had to Google that acronym. Love it! Sun Sep 27 11:18:03 -0700 2009 5053409 16544 Paladar 6 5073661 Cafe Eleven will be replaced by Gossip Grill (a female oriented restaurant according to some papers) - Urban Mo’s, Baja Betty and Gossip Grill - trifecta of doomed food. Thu Oct 01 19:49:03 -0700 2009 5061926 13239 honkman 7 5105642 Now scheduled to open Oct 30, 2009. Just in time for Halloween. Thu Oct 15 11:22:56 -0700 2009 5073661 18132 Green_Turtle 1 5075228 Hawthorne's in NP is being replaced by "West Coast Tavern" - which is a partnership with Urban Solace's Matt Gordon, the owners of True North and David Cohen. Fri Oct 02 14:12:30 -0700 2009 4368227 141689 Ewilensky 1 5089299 'Canes Bar & Grill in Mission Beach is supposedly closing in November. I'm not sure if that's for remodeling or if it's going to reopen, but that's what I read on CityBeat. Thu Oct 08 14:35:48 -0700 2009 4368227 72231 DougOLis 2 5090097 I know they had a fire recently so maybe it is remodeling related to that. I saw that Zetouna's Cafe on Washington in Mission Hills is closed. There is a sign that says 'temporarily closed' but there is another sign that says the restaurant is for sale by owner. I never made it there but heard mixed reviews. It never seemed to get going. Thu Oct 08 20:55:04 -0700 2009 5089299 125219 sdaints 1 5091479 Dakota Grill & Spirits has closed after 16 years in the Gaslamp Quarter. Fri Oct 09 11:37:21 -0700 2009 4368227 155341 stevewag23 2 5092094 wow that one is kind of shocking. Never was a fan, but it seemed to do good business. Fri Oct 09 15:16:20 -0700 2009 5091479 91897 MrKrispy 2 5093243 Since it's a Cohn restaurant, I'd guess it will be remade into another restaurant. Their restaurants may not be putting out the cutting edge of food, but they are good business people. Sat Oct 10 08:31:20 -0700 2009 5091479 261842 sdnosh 3 5097863 Precisely, the Dakota Grill location is being revamped/rebranded into another Cohn restaurant. I don't remember whether the new restaurant theme was mentioned in the article I read. Mon Oct 12 15:00:44 -0700 2009 5093243 57971 mikec 2 5103497 The reincarnation of Dakota's.....it'll become ......are you ready for this......a Fondue restaurant come January! Wed Oct 14 15:32:43 -0700 2009 5091479 38631 mcgrath 3 5103991 Excellent!!! A fondue restaurant in the gaslamp will definitely take san diego to the next level. Wed Oct 14 18:59:50 -0700 2009 5103497 155341 stevewag23 1 5093855 Trophy's in UTC is being replaced by La Jolla Strip Club, some kind of steak place. Sat Oct 10 15:00:57 -0700 2009 4368227 10853 daantaat 2 5094470 Trophy's has been bad since their 1st restaurant. Good Bye!!!! Bad service, bad food, bad customer service. Sat Oct 10 23:00:41 -0700 2009 5093855 1115418 icidocs 2 5096355 Sounds like it might be related to the Gaslamp Strip Club. I guess Donovan's and Fleming's (as well as the Ruth's Chris 5 or so miles up the 5) just weren't enough to service the UTC hotel crowd. I pretty much lived right above Trophy's for two years, and never went in that time, You'd think that a decent sports bar / brewery could make a go of it in the area, but I guess not. Mon Oct 12 00:16:23 -0700 2009 5093855 10969 RB Hound 3 5097466 Yeah if it's related hmm.... Grill your own steak. And season it. At that point I might as well grill it myself (which I do quite often). Mon Oct 12 12:15:41 -0700 2009 5096355 148489 deeznuts 3 5097793 Gaslamp Strip Club is a Cohn restaurant. Mon Oct 12 14:35:15 -0700 2009 5096355 21704 happensatonce 2 5106073 I just noticed today that the MV Trophy's is now the All American Grill. I have no idea when that happened. Thu Oct 15 13:29:51 -0700 2009 5093855 12513 Divamac 1 5103299 Chilangos Mexico City Grill paper on windows, phone # rings and rings. Wed Oct 14 14:16:56 -0700 2009 4368227 155341 stevewag23 2 5105992 Not surprised. the re-opened version of Chilangos didn't quite live up to the original incarnation. To bad, sad to see it finally go. That stretch of Uni is pretty hard. The corner has been a million different things, the upscale animal store didn't make it, Chilangos has been several different things. Not a lot of real longevity there between 2nd and 1st Thu Oct 15 13:04:27 -0700 2009 5103299 10506 DiningDiva 3 5106261 And Better Half unfortunately shut down. Thu Oct 15 14:28:39 -0700 2009 5105992 155341 stevewag23 4 5107071 Yes, and so did all the places that were in the space before the Better Half Thu Oct 15 20:56:06 -0700 2009 5106261 10506 DiningDiva 2 5171609 Where Chilangos once stood, it is now Charisma, Cucina Italiana. Red decor. Looks to be already up and running. Tue Nov 10 19:11:04 -0800 2009 5103299 155341 stevewag23 1 5104348 Just Burgers in Little Italy has closed. It's a tough location (formally Bud's Louisiana Cafe). It's being replaced by a Santanas. Wed Oct 14 22:04:03 -0700 2009 4368227 19302 SanDiego 2 5105092 Not only is that a difficult location but they have the best (IMO) bar burger next door and one of the best gourmet burgers just opened down the street. Thu Oct 15 08:27:18 -0700 2009 5104348 261842 sdnosh 2 5105193 between Waterfront and the new Burger Lounge I didn't expect them to last long. Thu Oct 15 09:01:30 -0700 2009 5104348 91897 MrKrispy 3 5105952 What's better, waterfront or burger lounge? I've been to the BL in La Jolla, and it was decent. But I hear about Waterfront quite often (has anyone had burgers at Nunus? my friends rave about it but it wasn't anything special ... the dive bar itself was cool though) Thu Oct 15 12:50:59 -0700 2009 5105193 148489 deeznuts 4 5106266 Kind of a different animal, so to speak. Waterfront is more of a good dive bar burger (not great in my opinion but good). Burger lounge is more the new millennium grass fed thing. Try them both, and see what you like more. Thu Oct 15 14:30:22 -0700 2009 5105952 155341 stevewag23 5 5108515 agreed. I think Burger Lounge is a higher quality tasting burger, but I like both. Fri Oct 16 12:05:21 -0700 2009 5106266 91897 MrKrispy 5 5113607 Can't argue with having to try both burgers. I've had BL in La Jolla, but both of these are around the corner from my friends, so try I must! Sun Oct 18 23:05:52 -0700 2009 5106266 148489 deeznuts 4 5114456 LOVE Nunu's and yes, the burger is good..especially after a few cocktails.. One of the best dives in SD..60's decor with the drinks strong and the naugahyde flowing. Waterfront is one of my favorites too..burger is great but the fries blow. www.nunuscocktails.com Mon Oct 19 10:07:39 -0700 2009 5105952 97452 Beach Chick 5 5119073 I probably shoulda had more cocktails. Don't get me wrong, it was a good burger, but while eating at my friends sushi shop she went to get nunus for the staff, and they loved it. Maybe it was a case of inflated expectations :D But the bar itself was fun Wed Oct 21 00:12:04 -0700 2009 5114456 148489 deeznuts 4 5195692 I don't get why people rave about Waterfront. Commodity meat on commodity bread - what's the fuss all about? You can get that burger a million places - the only thing unique about it is the atmosphere of the venue. Burger Lounge is a good-tasting burger, but what makes it special to me is that they use much better ingredients than your typical burger joint. So even if the burger itself isn't unique, the fact that it's made from good stuff is what makes it worth eating. Thu Nov 19 22:42:51 -0800 2009 5105952 10809 Josh 5 5195712 Last time I went to the waterfront the burger seemed way worse than I remember. Thu Nov 19 23:02:29 -0800 2009 5195692 155341 stevewag23 6 5197759 The Waterfront Burger is vapid. But that would imply a presence of non-flavor, so I guess the Waterfront burger is a ketchup-vector, and little else. Sorry. Fri Nov 20 22:34:06 -0800 2009 5195712 209317 SaltyRaisins 7 5198912 "ketchup-vector" Could be a new marketing scheme for them. Sat Nov 21 15:19:52 -0800 2009 5197759 155341 stevewag23 8 5198939 Yeah- as in "come get your condiment inoculation." Vector Burger. Sat Nov 21 15:39:25 -0800 2009 5198912 209317 SaltyRaisins 2 5105401 Yeah, I called that one a while back. "bar burger next door and one of the best gourmet burgers just opened down the street" They also weren't very good. I wish Bud's would move back, I get the feeling san diego already has a few Santanas. Thu Oct 15 10:12:14 -0700 2009 5104348 155341 stevewag23 1 5108772 Fuddrucker's downtown is closed. Very strange, as I was just there late last week for lunch, and when I went to drop by today, not only was it closed, but the place looked trashed on the inside. Everything had already been ripped out. The tables, cash registers, the fridges and kitchen area. All gone, with no notice whatsoever. Very strange. Fri Oct 16 13:30:57 -0700 2009 4368227 189270 cookieshoes 2 5112664 Yeah just saw that. I remember when that place opened, about May '08. I actually saw a sign in there window that they were opened to 3am on fri and sat. Sun Oct 18 14:00:03 -0700 2009 5108772 155341 stevewag23 1 5115560 Chilango's (in Hillcrest) apppears to have closed (again). Mon Oct 19 16:20:25 -0700 2009 4368227 141689 Ewilensky 1 5118395 cafe noir just north of the ballpark had closed Tue Oct 20 16:35:10 -0700 2009 4368227 155341 stevewag23 1 5118530 Cafe Eleven has closed. Tue Oct 20 17:45:08 -0700 2009 4368227 180283 foodiechick 1 5120030 And Hillcrest’s Café Bleu will hold its last night of service Saturday, Oct. 24. Café Bleu’s owners also run The Red Door in Mission Hills. Wed Oct 21 10:42:53 -0700 2009 4368227 155341 stevewag23 2 5122848 LOL last week we were near there and I said "I think that is the longest a restaurant has lasted in there for the last 15 years". Ooops! Thu Oct 22 10:55:40 -0700 2009 5120030 91897 MrKrispy 1 5126669 Just got an e-mail from the owners of Appertivo in North Park that they are closing....... Very suprised I live axcross the street & they seemed to have a really steady stream of business. However we were worried about them because another location of Arrivederci is opening across the street & would really split the business. Fri Oct 23 19:47:21 -0700 2009 4368227 1105132 modfood 2 5127962 not surprising. The Arrivederci has been threatening to open in that spot for a couple of years with little-to-no work being done so that definitely wasn't the problem. http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/507549 Sat Oct 24 14:01:16 -0700 2009 5126669 91897 MrKrispy 3 5150185 according to frank sabatini in gay and lesbian times, the owners nearly doubled apertivo's rent, to close to 5K/month. north park is booming, but still... an interesting move given the overall economy, i guess. Mon Nov 02 14:21:02 -0800 2009 5127962 1121183 sdurban 1 5149688 ciro's hillcrest closed? - walked by ciro's pizza next to dish (which is still closed/undergoing its "makeover") last night and it was definitely not open. no mention of this location on their website either. unfortunately, if the recent reviews on yelp are true, it's no big loss. http://sdurban.com/blog/ Mon Nov 02 12:21:07 -0800 2009 4368227 155341 stevewag23 2 5153649 Anyone know what happened to Tastes in Encinitas? Went by there the other day and saw the name had changed. Tue Nov 03 17:28:01 -0800 2009 5149688 1120492 mbro 3 5153721 Wings Pizza and Things next to Petco park has closed. For lease signs up in the windows. Tue Nov 03 17:57:34 -0800 2009 5153649 1121533 djudd07 4 5156297 "Wings Pizza and Things" Can't say I know anyone who ate there. Wed Nov 04 14:51:38 -0800 2009 5153721 155341 stevewag23 5 5156473 The only thing that would have drawn me would have been the "Things," but why do you need that when the Old Spaghetti Factory is back in business? Wed Nov 04 15:49:33 -0800 2009 5156297 10969 RB Hound 3 5153828 "Tastes in Encinitas" - Closed a few months ago. Tue Nov 03 18:54:13 -0800 2009 5153649 13239 honkman 1 5191937 I read in the UT that Decanter Lounge on Del Dios Highway closed. It was at the foot of the Il Cielo development. I have no idea how the food was, it was just so out of the way I never went there. I know that they spent some bucks on the place. It looked like it was trying to be one of those poser kind of places sorta like the place that took overt the old Scalini spot on VDV. Oh well. Wed Nov 18 11:30:40 -0800 2009 4368227 67683 littlestevie 1 5192981 After 57 years of continuious operation in SD, Nicolosi's is closing. Sunday is their last day of service. For those of us that grew up here, this is kinda sad. Nicolosi's could always be counted on for familiar and fairly good Italian-American food. Current location is on Adobe Falls Rd. between Allied Gardens and SDSU Wed Nov 18 18:42:19 -0800 2009 4368227 10506 DiningDiva 2 5193318 Oh my, talk about the end of an era. I remember eating at Nicolosi's when they were located in Lemon Grove, many many moons ago. .....;( Wed Nov 18 22:23:10 -0800 2009 5192981 70144 Dagney 3 5194861 Wow. I used to get their garlic and clam pizza with my dad back in the 80's. Maybe it's time for one last run... Thu Nov 19 14:38:46 -0800 2009 5193318 141689 Ewilensky 2 5196159 Never understood how they survived in that loc. Fri Nov 20 07:28:40 -0800 2009 5192981 149836 cstr 1 5196151 I was driving up 5th in the GL and saw that Mangu and the cigar shop is gone. Not surprised, looks like another restaurant is going in. Fri Nov 20 07:26:38 -0800 2009 4368227 149836 cstr 2 5196271 Mangu is gone, but Cesar is opening a burger joint instead. Same owner, different concept Fri Nov 20 08:15:39 -0800 2009 5196151 10506 DiningDiva 3 5196370 Wow. Non-stop burger joints. Fri Nov 20 08:58:50 -0800 2009 5196271 155341 stevewag23 3 5197178 Pity his private investors. Fri Nov 20 15:24:50 -0800 2009 5196271 149836 cstr 4 5198416 Yes, it's been a long ugly ride Sat Nov 21 10:03:45 -0800 2009 5197178 10506 DiningDiva 3 5200623 Seems to be open again. Now it is called "809 Lounge". Not sure what the "809" means. The address I think is 503 fifth street. Sun Nov 22 14:45:52 -0800 2009 5196271 155341 stevewag23 1 5206527 The past few times that I have gone by Deli on 5th it has had paper over the windows. I always thought it seemed like a strange business and it never seemed to be busy, although I never did try it. Another place that looks like it may be gone is Ramak Hookah. I don't smoke hookah but when I stopped in there after they first opened they claimed to be making homemade persian food. I didn't make it there too so I can't comment on the food. Again, it seemed doom from the start. Tue Nov 24 19:06:52 -0800 2009 4368227 125219 sdaints