Concierge Picks at the W San Diego

The W San Diego is a hip, vibrant boutique hotel located within walking distance of excellent shopping, eating and nightlife in downtown San Diego. Gibran Huerta is one of the concierges at the W and he offered some tips on where he points guests for drinks after a long day exploring this sunny, Southern California city.

One of Gibran’s favorite places is Noble Experiment, a speakeasy-like bar located in San Diego’s East Village. Call ahead to get a password for entry, and once you get inside, you’ll find bartenders mixing up drinks like a French designer creates haute couture. In other words; quality over quantity. And remember, these bartenders aren’t just whipping up the standard gin & tonics; therefore, a quality drink takes a little time to craft.

Cafe Chloe and Basic are also in the East Village. An intimate wine bar with a Parisian feel, Cafe Chloe serves up breakfast, lunch, dinner and small plates and has an selective wine list. Basic sits inside converted warehouse from the 1912, where you can sample Connecticut-style pizza (that’s right, Connecticut-style – we hadn’t heard of it either) while you sip on one of their draft beers or house wines.

San Diego’s microbrewery scene is arguably one of the best in the country, rivaling those in Portland and Seattle. Try Hamilton’s Tavern for some of the best locally-produced lagers, pilsener, and ales in the city. Located in South Park, Hamilton’s has 28 beers on tap as well as 200 bottled beers to choose from.

People-watching and relaxation in Pacific Beach

South Beach Bar and Grill is practically on the water in Ocean Beach and offers great views, excellent drink specials as well as a culinary staple of San Diego: fish tacos. In nearby Pacific Beach, the bar at Tower 23 has a trendier atmosphere and great people-watching opportunities.

Sometimes all you need is a dive bar with cheap drinks and an atmosphere that pleases everyone. Nunu’s is located near the Hillcrest neighborhood and offers fantastic drink specials during the week as well as Bloody Mary and Mimosa specials during the weekend mornings.

Gibran told us he would be remiss in not recommending their own Beach Bar, located on the 3rd floor of the W San Diego. Hang out in the sun all day, or have late evening cocktails under the moonlight. Need a bit more privacy? Ask about reserving one of their cabanas. Did we mention the sand floor is heated?

[photos courtesy of cybaea and caccamo]