Where to Eat in San Diego: Restaurant Openings and News (Feb. 12–16)

Where to Eat in San Diego: New Restaurant Openings

Mexican Cantina with Baja Coastal Cuisine Headed to the Gaslamp

Aron Langellier is one of the masterminds behind local spots like Barley Mash, The Smoking Gun, and most recently, Spill the Beans. Now, he and his partners are looking to bring the same vibe and experience as their other locales to a new arena: Mexican food. Hasta Manaña Cantina is expected to open sometime this spring in the Gaslamp in the former 8,000-square-foot Rockin’ Baja Lobster space. Langellier likes the friendly feel of the restaurant’s name, meaning “see you tomorrow,” and hopes their new addition of a large bar as the centerpiece of the restaurant will conjure that friendly, “catch you soon” energy for tourists and locals alike. 

While the menu is still being curated by Barley Mash executive chef and Hasta Manaña partner Kevin Templeton, Langellier says we can expect the menu to feature Mexican classics like tacos and burritos alongside dishes with a “Baja coastal” focus, using sustainable and local seafood. And with that center bar taking the main stage, visitors can expect a robust and thoughtful cocktail program.

Where to Eat in San Diego: Restaurant News & Food Events

San Diego Restaurant Week is back March 3 through March 10, featuring dining specials (think two-course lunches and three-course dinners starting at $30) at more than 100 local restaurants in more than 30 different San Diego County neighborhoods.

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