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Being in the business of pies means the holiday season is especially busy for husbands and business partners Gan Suebsarakham and Steven Torres. “We are so thankful that San Diegans trust us with their holiday pies, which are a tradition in and of themselves,” says Torres, who met his other half through Grossmont College’s culinary […]
Being in the business of pies means the holiday season is especially busy for husbands and business partners Gan Suebsarakham and Steven Torres. “We are so thankful that San Diegans trust us with their holiday pies, which are a tradition in and of themselves,” says Torres, who met his other half through Grossmont College’s culinary arts program. “We decided to start a restaurant soon after meeting, and that worked out nicely since we also fell in love,” Suebsarakham adds.
That restaurant, Pop Pie Co. in University Heights, has since opened a second location in Costa Mesa and spun off an ice cream shop, Stella Jean’s, to neighbor each. When they’re not working, you can most likely find them in their Bankers Hill home entertaining—Suebsarakham’s the chef, while Torres works the room and entertains guests. These are a few of their favorite things that help them entertain.
Gift Guide Entertainers / Suebsarakham and Torres Matcha Set
“We just love this Portland-based company Mizuba’s take on green tea. This is also the matcha we use at Pop Pie Co.” $89
Gift Guide Entertainers / Suebsarakham and Torres Claudia’s Cocina
“Our friend Claudia is an extremely talented chef and her cookbook is a must for all San Diego home cooks.” $40, chefclaudiasandoval.com
Gift Guide Entertainers / Suebsarakham and Torres Coffee Beans
“Onyx roasts some of the best coffee in the country, and we have become good friends with their team. The Geometry blend is our favorite to brew at home.” $10-96
Gift Guide Entertainers / Suebsarakham and Torres Apron
“Our ice cream magicians wear this brand, Hedley & Bennett, at Stella Jean’s. We’re really big fans of everything they do.” $95
Gift Guide Entertainers / Suebsarakham and Torres Sous Vide
“Try using the Joule Sous Vide for meal prep, and it will change your life. Juicy chicken breast, perfectly cooked salmon, the list goes on.” $250, breville.com
Gift Guide Entertainers / Suebsarakham and Torres Studio Roller
“We use George & Willy’s merch throughout both shops. The studio roller would fit in well in a home kitchen or playroom.” $170
Gift Guide Entertainers / Suebsarakham and Torres Air Fryer
“We love the Phillips Premium Digital Airfryer because of how easy it is: put ingredients in, wait, remove, finished.” $350, williams-sonoma.com
Gift Guide Entertainers / Suebsarakham and Torres Thumb Cup
“This Ocean Beach brand makes our Pop Pie Co. cups. The Thumb Cups especially are unique. Shop local!” $28, maekceramics.com
Gift Guide Entertainers / Suebsarakham and Torres
Haley Hill
The team behind the project will debut Sonny’s in 2025 and will open a second Madi location in Pacific Beach
The team behind Madison on Park and Madi will have a busy 2025. Jeffrey Fink (who also owns M-Theory Music and the now-closed Fluxx nightclub) and Matt Sieve (Isabel’s Cantina) took over the space at 1728 Madison Avenue two years ago, hoping to open a pizza concept just around the corner from Madison on Park in 2023. Now, at last, and to what I’m sure is their great relief, they have a target date for said pizza shop. Sonny’s will open in University Heights in February or March of next year.
“Sonny’s pays homage to the iconic NY-style pizzerias of the ’80s, housed in a well-used 100-year-old former auto shop,” explains Fink. “The space retains its authentic roughness, enhanced with additions of a custom pizza oven imported from Italy and mezzanine inspired by all our grandmas’ houses.”
The 3,500-square-foot indoor space will also include an additional 500-square-foot outdoor patio, designed by Anna and David Sindelar, who designed Madi and Madison on Park. Featuring a repurposed copper bar, decorated with vintage TVs and a backyard dining area, Fink says it will feel less like a traditional Italian restaurant and more like a time capsule of 1980s Brooklyn culture, with a curated menu that will include appetizers, salads, entrees, pizzas, rotating soft-serve specials, and an outside grill. Danny Kuehner will spearhead the cocktail program, featuring plenty of amaro and what Fink calls “young, funky, hip” wines.
But that’s not all the pair has planned. In May, they’ll also open a second Madi location in Pacific Beach. The new Madi will feature the same menu as the original location in Normal Heights centered around brunch, lunch, and cocktails. And because good things come in threes, Sieve and Fink are also working on a diner concept in Hillcrest. Sieve is a third-generation restaurateur, whose family owns and operates a 100-year-old breakfast restaurant in Minnesota. He’s no stranger to working the grill, so he’s taking the lead on this new concept—best of luck to the partners on what is sure to be a hectic few months.
Carlsbad’s Park Hyatt Aviara has a slew of holiday events coming up, starting with their Holiday Market on Sunday, December 8. From 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., you can shop local, sip, and meet Santa. The big guy will be back quite a few more times—December 11 through 24—from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. for Cabana Christmas Village, where guests can meander through poolside cabanas that will each offer a unique experience, from food and drink to ornament making, hot cocoa, and more.
There are also Christmas Eve and Day feasts at Ponto Lago and Christmas Day brunch at Ember & Rye, and if you’ve reached the maximum amount of information to absorb at one time, you can just check out the full list of events at your leisure right here.
Have breaking news, exciting scoops, or great stories about new San Diego restaurants or the city’s food scene? Send your pitches to [email protected].
Beth Demmon is an award-winning writer and podcaster whose work regularly appears in national outlets and San Diego Magazine. Her first book, The Beer Lover's Guide to Cider, is now available. Find out more on bethdemmon.com.
Clos Wine Shop owners Paul and Juerie share what's on their list
There’s love, and then there’s I-trust-you-so-much-let’s-open-a-business-together love. Juerie and Paul Masters understand this all too well; their love for wine is unmatched except by their love for each other. Clos, their University Heights business, was our pick for San Diego’s Best Natural Wine Shop last year. Both of them honed their palates in New York City—Juerie as a wine distributor, Paul as a bartender turned beverage program manager—and he says “it all just flowed from there.”
He jests that he and Juerie are much like a pét-nat: “old-fashioned, but fun.” They don’t take themselves too seriously. In their own home, they prefer “minimal clutter, minimal fuss” to let their artwork sing instead. Here, the aficionados share a few of their favorite (and local!) things to inspire your Valentine’s Day gifting.
Tastemaker The Masters / Fornasetti Metafisica candle
“How beautiful are these Fornasetti candles? The quality of both the artwork and the scents is outstanding. It’s a candle whose container is a piece of artwork you can keep forever. We have one in the shop and one at home.” $215, Love & Aesthetics, Little Italy
Tastemaker The Masters / Negroni tumbler glass
“The folks at Collins & Coupe have a brilliant selection of glassware and everything else you need for drinks at home as well as professional bartending. These understated and timeless Negroni glasses are a favorite.” $6, Collins & Coupe, North Park
Tastemaker The Masters / The Tinned Fish Cookbook
“Bart is a Dutch fish guru who worked in Michelin-starred kitchens in Paris and left to follow his passion for all things fish. After realizing a lot of the fish that we consume aren’t from small fishery communities but from ‘factories on the water,’ he made it his goal to look for fisheries that obtain the best fish while taking care of nature and the environment at the same time.” $17, Clos Wine Shop, University Heights
Tastemaker The Masters / Campestremag
“Campestremag is a twice-yearly indie publication that focuses on wine in San Diego and Baja. They love the same wines we do—wines made by small producers using evidentially sustainable farming practices, no additives, quirky grapes, native yeast, and spontaneous fermentation. These wines are better to drink and better for the environment.” $15, Home Ec, Little Italy
Tastemaker The Masters / Quadrum boxed wine
“There was a time when only bad wine came in boxes, but those days are thankfully gone. We have boxes and pouches that are ideal for outdoor life or just to keep at home in the fridge—they can last up to two weeks.” $27, Clos Wine Shop, University Heights
Tastemaker The Masters / Isosteel bottle
“This is a must for living in San Diego! We have an Isosteel one-liter vacuum bottle. Each end detaches to become a cup and it keeps wine cold for hours while we’re lolling around in the park. In fact, this prompted us to sell them at the shop for all our friends that buy wine on the way to Trolley Barn Park!” $48, amazon.com
Tastemaker The Masters
Let these local restaurants do all the cooking for you this holiday season
Addison and chef William Bradley are bringing the flavors of San Diego’s only Michelin-starred restaurant into the comfort of your own home. Available for pickup Thursday through Sunday, the four-course menu features seasonal local ingredients. The package is available for $89 per person, with the option to include wine selected by Addison’s wine director, Victoria O’Bryan. Schedule your pickup time through Resy.
5200 Grand Del Mar Way, Del Mar | 858-314-1900
Bring the classic flavors of France into your home this holiday season with Bleu Bohème. The complete menu will be available to order, including their signature mussels and the rest of their expansive menu of classic French cuisine made with fresh Southern Californian ingredients. Bleu Bohème also offers a list of wines and signature cocktails to go. Curbside pickup and free delivery within two miles of the restaurant will be available on their website from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.
4090 Adams Avenue, Normal Heights | 619-255-4167
Barbusa, Nonna, and Zucchero have teamed up to offer a to-go menu that highlights favorites from each restaurant. The menu includes three courses for $20, with the Busalacchis’ famous garlic bread serving as a starter, then your choice of two salads, five pastas, and the option to add extra sides, mains, desserts, and wine. Each meal is designed to feed one person, and the minimum order is two meals. Takeout orders can be placed daily from 4 to 8 p.m. All orders will be available for pickup from Barbusa; you can also get delivery through DoorDash.
1917 India Street, Little Italy | 619-238-1917
For those who want to trade in the holiday ham for something plant based, Café Gratitude San Diego has flavorful pies and sides for preorder. They’re offering seasonal, family-style specials like cranberry-roasted butternut squash and garnet yams. For the ones who like sweet treats, try the gluten-free maple pecan spice cake or mocha cheesecake. Order your choice of holiday pies and sides online or in-store by December 20 and plan to pick up on December 23 by 9 p.m.
1980 Kettner Boulevard, Little Italy | 619-736-5077
You can still enjoy a prime rib dinner this holiday without even changing out of your pajamas. Cardellino’s holiday takeout meal includes a 12-ounce slice of prime rib, mixed greens salad, truffled mashed potatoes, green beans almondine, horseradish cream, and jus. Dinner is $45 per person, but you can add on something sweet and something to sip on for an additional cost. Place your order by December 21 and pick up on December 24 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Cardellino. Preorders can be placed online.
4033 Goldfinch Street, Mission Hills | 619-600-5311
This Chula Vista eatery will offer a series of to-go packages to pair with their to-go beer crowlers and bottles of wine from Baja. Order the Birria Tacos Family Pack, which includes 10 hand-pressed tortillas, birria, black beans, and all the fixings for $30. Or choose the Three for $40 special, which includes your choice of three signature dishes. El Cruce will be open on Christmas Eve, and orders can be placed in person and online.
241 Third Avenue, Chula Vista | 619-474-2244
If you’re looking for a family-size meal with all of the fixings, then give DZ Akin’s a call to place your order. They’re offering either a ham or turkey feast complete with sides, rolls, and dessert. The turkey feast starts at $199, the ham feast at $225, with each meal serving 10 to 12 people. Order at least 24 hours in advance to secure your holiday dinner and pick up on Christmas Eve before 3 p.m. and New Year’s Eve/Day before 8 p.m.
6930 Alvarado Road, La Mesa | 619-265-0218
Feel like Santa Claus when you walk through the door with this special holiday package filled with delicious to-go items from Greenfinch at Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa. The restaurant is offering a special 11-course dinner on Christmas Day that serves four to six people. The dinner comes with appetizers, entrées, sides, and something sweet to end the night. The meal is $350, and you can pick up your package between 12 and 5 p.m. on December 25. Call the restaurant to place your order.
9700 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla | 858-550-1000
Fortunate Son
James Tran and Olivia Beall
Fortunate Son, CH Projects’ newest venue, is honoring the takeout tradition of ordering Chinese on the holidays by offering their full menu to go. The restaurant will be open from 4 to 10 p.m. on Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day; orders can be placed by calling the restaurant or via their online order form.
2943 Adams Avenue, University Heights | 619-391-3766
Though the holidays look different this year, especially at the Hotel del Coronado, you can still enjoy a Christmas dinner to eat at home. Parking is validated, so plan a few extra minutes to stop in and take a look at The Del’s lovely interior before you pick up your holiday feast. The menu for four people includes lovely entrée options, decadent sides, and a yummy dessert to finish off the night. Order online by 3 p.m. on December 18 for pickup on December 23, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
1500 Orange Avenue, Coronado | 619-435-6611
Craving some French classics to enjoy in the comfort of your home? Try Mille Fleurs’ new three-course takeout meals. The menu changes weekly and is offered Wednesday–Sunday, 4–8 p.m. The restaurant has also moved their wine cellar online, so you can order a bottle to toast alongside your meal. Cheers!
6009 Paseo Delicias, Rancho Santa Fe | 858-756-3085
Enjoy an at-home celebration with Moniker Cocktail Co.’s boozy bundles. The baskets change every week, so keep an eye out for your favorites or try something new. If you want to upgrade your kits, you can order additional wine varieties, too. Orders must be submitted each week by Wednesday at 4 p.m. for free Friday delivery throughout Point Loma and Ocean Beach or for pickup at Moniker General.
2860 Sims Road, Liberty Station | 619-255-8772
Mongolian Hot Pot is bringing their classic hot pot experience to your home with their takeout kits. Each kit includes different meat options, sauce, veggies, homemade noodles, and their house soup base. Families can also purchase a stove-and-pot set with their food, and the kits can feed anywhere from two to six people. Prices range from $45 to $120, with the option for more add-ons.
4718 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, Clairemont | 858-274-2040
Put a French twist on your occasion and call Parc Bistro to place your order for the holidays. Each package serves two people with a menu of coq au vin, baked salmon, or filet mignon in addition to appetizers, sides and, of course, dessert. The packages range from $100 to $150 and are available for preorder now over the phone. Pickup times are December 24, 25, or 31 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
2760 Fifth Avenue, Bankers Hill | 619-795-1501
Provisional Kitchen at the Pendry San Diego is offering their Pancakes and Pajamas holiday brunch event to go on December 19. This brunch takeout kit will include cooked pancakes, colorful toppings, and a pair of complimentary children’s holiday pajamas from P.J. Salvage for all hotel guests.
550 J Street, Gaslamp Quarter | 619-738-7000
Enjoy a family meal from Pho Ca Dao this holiday season. Offered for groups of two or four, the meals are packed with their most popular items—including pho, appetizers, and rice dishes—for a delicious, no-brainer dinner. The meals range from $25 to $65. Orders can be placed in person or over the phone daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
2647 Fenton Parkway, Suite D104, Mission Valley | 619-684-5129
Enjoy an herbaceous, locally sourced, family-style Christmas Eve feast with chef Brian Malarkey’s Herb at Home. For Christmas Eve, menu items include American wagyu sirloin, braised local pork belly, pesto white beans, and dessert. The New Year’s Eve spread includes white truffle mashed potatoes, pink peppercorn-crusted filet mignon, and dessert. Guests can preorder their dinner on OpenTable. Pickup will take place at both restaurants the afternoon of each holiday.
2210 Kettner Boulevard, Little Italy | 610-955-8495
131 D Street, Encinitas | 760-704-8300
Ranch 45’s à la carte pickup menu allows you to fully customize your holiday feast. With choices like herb-crusted prime rib, smoked turkey leg, smoked Cornish game hens, roasted broccoli with Parmesan and garlic, and olive oil smashed potatoes, it’s hard to say no. Dessert will also be available to purchase. The Solana Beach butcher shop and eatery will be accepting orders up to 48 hours in advance. Place your order online or over the phone.
512 Via de la Valle, Solana Beach | 858-461-0092
Rancho Bernardo Inn has put together some seasonal dishes for takeout so you can still celebrate the season even at home. The menu includes lobster bisque, watercress and grilled endive salad, a 10-ounce grilled prime ribeye, and dark chocolate mousse. Preorder by December 22 at 12 p.m.
17550 Bernardo Oaks Drive, Rancho Bernardo | 888-976-4417
Take the hassle out of the holidays and order the Holidays to Go feast from Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa. Order before 5 p.m. on Friday, December 18 and pick up your meal on Christmas Eve between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Choose from menu items like prime beef tenderloin, lobster bisque, and truffle mac and cheese, along with a selection of wine pairings.
5921 Valencia Circle, Rancho Santa Fe | 858-756-1123
Rusticucina
Eckis Marketing
Give your home Christmas meal a Sicilian twist with Rusticucina’s holiday menu, which includes short ribs, cannelloni pasta with roasted chicken, and dessert. Each order comes with a full panettone! Preorders can be made by phone or through the website and are accepted until December 24. The restaurant is also offering gift baskets with savory treats to send to your loved ones.
3797 Park Boulevard, Hillcrest | 619-684-5129
Indulge in a holiday tradition with some tamales from Tamales Ancira. You can order a dozen for $25 or order the party pack of 50 tamales to freeze for later. Call in your orders over the phone and check in on their social media for special offers and deals throughout the holiday season.
2260 Main Street. Suite 17, Chula Vista | 619-424-3416
Teriyako & Bao
Hiba Khalid
Teriyaki & Bao brings some holiday cheer this year with their holiday bao bun special. December 21–January 4, order their snowman bao buns filled with fresh sliced bananas and nutella. The restaurant is open regular hours even during the holidays, and is currently offering takeout and delivery through their website and third-party apps.
711 Grand Avenue, Carlsbad | 760-637-5737
North Park’s Tribute Pizza is continuing their curbside pickup this holiday season with meal specials for the family. Feast on wood-fired porchetta or a vegetarian lasagna with add-ons like Brussels sprouts, potatoes au gratin, and spiked eggnog. Place an order online for pickup on December 23 or 24.
3077 North Park Way, North Park | 760-637-5737
The Filipino holiday meal to go from Villa Manila in National City comes with à la carte items like bibingka, halaya, and buko pandan salad. Orders can be made online or over the phone and must be placed at least three days in advance. Pick up anytime between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
500 East Eighth Street, National City | 619-477-8512
The waterfront InterContinental San Diego will be offering a Christmas Eve and Christmas Day takeout dinner from their signature restaurant, Vistal. The meal includes an entrée, sides, and gravy for $32 per person. Guests also have the option of adding on a soup or crème fraiche option for $9 per person. Orders, which will be available for pickup from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Christmas Eve and Christmas, can be placed by calling the restaurant or by emailing [email protected].
901 Bayfront Court, Embarcadero | 619-535-0485
For those who don’t want to cook during the holidays, but still want to bring a little fanfare to the dinner table, The Westgate Hotel is offering a four-course dinner for two. The meal includes a porcini mushroom and chestnut soup, salad, 16-ounce Angus beef tenderloin, and dessert. The price for this upscale dinner at home is $138. Call the hotel or order through this online link before December 22. Pickup is December 24 or December 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
1055 Second Avenue, Downtown | 619-238-1818
Jenna Miller is a freelance writer. Her website is jennaruthmiller.com.
Ranch 45
Maraelia Romaine
This month, the 2026 San Diego Business Impact Awards recognized local businesses making an impact in clean energy, biotech, hospitality, and beyond
Renewable energy companies building hundreds of power plants. Biotech startups using artificial intelligence to create personalized medicine for children with rare diseases. Hospitality companies quietly powering thousands of local events. Consumer brands growing from beach-town startups into national businesses. These are the kinds of companies driving San Diego’s economy today, and the businesses recognized at this year’s San Diego Business Impact Awards offer a snapshot of where the region is headed.
Hosted July 23 by San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and JPMorganChase, the second annual awards event honored four local companies for innovation, growth, and economic impact. More than 100 nominations from San Diego’s middle-market businesses were reviewed by a 10-person judging committee, with winners selected across four categories: startup, early-stage innovator, rising star, and established heavyweight.
Two-time honoree Jimbo Someck, founder of Jimbo’s organic grocery stores, also joined the event for a fireside chat on buying local, supporting emerging brands, and giving back to the community.
“San Diego’s strength comes from its makers and builders—the resilient people who endure great risks and overcome obstacles to build and scale a company,” says Aaron Ryan, San Diego Region Manager and Middle Market Banking at JPMorganChase & Co. “These awards aren’t just recognition; they spotlight the talent, grit, and innovation shaping our region’s future. By celebrating those who create and build, we foster connections and fuel the growth that keeps San Diego thriving.”
Heavyweight honoree SOLV Energy has grown alongside the country’s rapid investment in renewable power. “It’s an exciting time for SOLV Energy as we are experiencing significant growth,” says CEO George Hershman. “The business has doubled over the last year and has almost double-digit growth since its inception.”
The Rancho Bernardo-based company designs, builds, operates, and maintains utility-scale solar and energy storage facilities. Since its founding in 2008, SOLV Energy has built more than 500 power plants.
Growth has translated directly into hiring. About 200 employees work from the company’s local headquarters, including roughly 20 interns. “Our intern program is a big part of the way that we grow our workforce,” Hershman says. “Last year, 43 percent of our interns became full-time employees. We believe San Diego is a great community to build and grow a high-tech infrastructure and technology company because of the incredible workforce—the ability to attract top talent and draw from world-class universities.”
Startup honoree La Jolla Labs is tackling one of medicine’s biggest challenges by developing personalized RNA therapeutics for patients with rare diseases—many of them children with neurological disorders like ALS. Using proprietary artificial intelligence and machine learning tools, the biotech company develops treatments tailored to each patient’s specific genetic mutation.
CEO Tamar Grossman says the recognition reflects how far the company has come despite limited resources. “We’re honored to be recognized for our ability to change and save patients’ lives and turn our lean startup into a clinical company with very minimal resources,” she says.
Grossman credits San Diego’s concentration of research institutions—including UC San Diego, the Salk Institute, and Scripps Research—with creating a pipeline of talent and collaboration. “San Diego is one of the world-leading centers for technology, genomics, and RNA therapeutics,” she says. “We have over 30 RNA therapeutics companies here, and we support each other and help with anything related to drug discovery.”
She says that collaborative spirit extends beyond formal partnerships. “You can walk around Torrey Pines, go into a café, and find colleagues from the industry and have an ad hoc conversation,” Grossman says. “That’s something very unique to San Diego.”
While Snake Oil Venue Company may not be a household name, chances are many San Diegans have attended one of its events. The early-stage innovator honoree has expanded from beverage catering and mixology consulting into venue management, operating Julep Venue in Mission Hills, Bramble Bay Venue in Imperial Beach, Vesper Venue, the Chapel at Liberty Station, and five outdoor venues throughout Liberty Station—more than 500,000 square feet of event space altogether.
“We do a lot of launch parties for corporations and new products,” says CEO Mike Esposito. “I really like working on the entrepreneur side of things, where new businesses are entering the San Diego market and looking to make a splash.”
Snake Oil has executed more than 16,000 events, employed more than 1,000 people, and partnered with more than 900 local vendors, including caterers, florists, photographers, entertainers, and other hospitality businesses. The company also works with many of San Diego’s nonprofits, museums, and cultural institutions. “We get to celebrate people’s most important moments,” Esposito says. “Whether that’s a wedding, celebration of life, or quinceañera, we’re fortunate to be involved in the community in so many different ways.”
Rising star honoree ALOHA Collection is proof that a simple idea can grow into a thriving company. Founded by two roommates who wanted a better way to carry wet swimsuits after a day at the beach, the lifestyle brand has grown into a business while maintaining strong year-over-year growth.
Now headquartered in Carlsbad, ALOHA Collection employs more than 100 people and operates its California flagship store in Encinitas, which is slated for a remodel. With roots in Hawaii, the company is known for its lightweight, splash-proof travel bags that have become a familiar sight on beaches in San Diego and beyond.
“‘Aloha’ is part of our name, but it’s also how we move through the world,” says CEO Lynna Barnard. “It’s how we show up for people, the way we travel, the way we give back.” Since day one, the company has maintained a 5 percent giveback to Hawaii conservation efforts, contributing millions of dollars over the years.
“I think what’s so inspiring about ALOHA Collection, and the founders in particular, is when you dream big, those dreams can come true when you work hard and trust in the universe,” Barnard says. “It’s inspiring to be a role model for other people wanting to start businesses from humble beginnings. Start small and watch it grow.”
Together, businesses like these form a cornerstone of San Diego’s economy—not only through the jobs and revenue they generate—but through the local workers they hire, vendors they support, and investments they make in the region. Their growth doesn’t happen in isolation; it ripples outward, strengthening the broader business community and the people who call San Diego home.
Your purchase can help pay it forward
San Diego’s small businesses are struggling, but that hasn’t stopped them from giving back to their staff and their community. In the spirit of the season, these six local businesses are paying it forward with creative initiatives, GoFundMe campaigns, and more. Read on to show them some love and see how you can support their efforts!
Cloak & Petal is giving back to front-line workers and first responders with dinner packages fit for every occasion. There are three to choose from, which send two, three, or four meals to those essential workers, respectively. The Notorious has light bites and cocktails, the Emperor’s Bounty adds sake bombs and crunchy rolls to that menu, and the Kaiju Feast bumps it up to a sushi platter and six cocktails of choice.
1953 India Street, Little Italy
The Mira Mesa coffee shop looked to their tight-knit community for help finding ways they could give back. The result is a “Post-It forward” initiative, where you can purchase an extra drink for someone in need in addition to your own. That someone can come in, take a drink order from the wall of Post-Its, and bring it to the counter to receive it for free. It’s a simple gesture, but one that owner Jimmy Silva says was a no-brainer: “Without the support of this community we wouldn’t be able to continue to be open and overcome the challenges that COVID-19 has brought.” Jaunt Coffee Roasters is also doing a 12 Days of Giveaways promotion on their Instagram page for more ways to spread some holiday cheer.
8680 Miralani Drive, Suite 134, Mira Mesa
During this difficult time, Madison is giving 100 percent of their gross revenue—not profit—to their staff, donating gift card sales to them, and has set up a GoFundMe where donations will be quadruple-matched by the owners. The University Heights restaurant began this initiative at the beginning of the pandemic, before the restaurant was able to reopen in adherence to state guidelines over the summer. Support their efforts by ordering takeout directly through the restaurant or through third-party apps for delivery.
4622 Park Boulevard, University Heights
Rise & Shine is looking out for San Diegans who’ve been hit by the recession. Anyone who was laid off during the pandemic can head down to Breakfast Republic’s Mission Valley location between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. every day to receive a free prepped dinner. Over the past few months, the restaurant has made 6,479 meals and raised over $50,000 through Rise & Shine’s nonprofit organization. Haven’t been laid off? If you have the means, why not order your next breakfast to go from them?
1570 Camino de la Reina, Mission Valley
In addition to serving up some delicious vegan food (see: Spicy Boy sandwich) made from all fresh, organic ingredients, this food truck is making its mark by putting community first. When you order something for yourself, ask for a Veggie Gang Meal to receive a free meal for someone in need. Owner Avonte also offers a pay-what-you-can option to combat the stigma that vegan food is only for those with higher incomes. If you want to help support his efforts you can purchase a meal to go, donate money to their Venmo account, or donate fresh veggies and produce for their free meal service.
8040 Armour Street, Kearny Mesa
Looking for ways to help the restaurant industry? Buy a hospitality worker a steak dinner through Rare Society’s Industry Steak Night To-Go Edition. Every Wednesday, Trust Restaurant Group turns out these meals for workers to pick up at a prescheduled time. Last week they sold out at 200 meals; they hope to serve 300 next week. Help them reach their goal or, if you’re a hospitality worker, see how you can redeem your dinner. The dinners are reserved on a first-come basis.
4130 Park Boulevard, University Heights
Madison in University Heights
Haley Hill
Tired of your housemate? Check out these serene spots around town
Often confused with the Desert Garden off Park Boulevard, Balboa Park’s 1935 Cactus Garden is home to a wide variety of cacti and succulents, including a collection of exotic African and Australian Protea plants. The garden has also been claimed by a feral cat colony—the cats are friendly and mind their own business, and local organizations have worked to spay and neuter and re-release them. You can access the garden by walking through the parking lot behind the Balboa Park Club or taking a trail from Palm Canyon.
2144 Pan American Road West, Balboa Park
This garden’s unassuming location off bustling Adams Avenue is part of what makes it such a sacred place for meditation. You won’t find any frills here, just a few benches, simple landscaping, and a statue in honor of the garden’s namesake spiritual leader, creating a small, tranquil respite from our busy world. For those who want to take their practice a step further, San Diego’s Sri Chinmoy Centre, located a couple miles down the road, offers free online meditation courses.
2508-2518 Adams Avenue, University Heights
San Diego Botanic Garden
Riley Murphy
A true urban oasis in North County, the Botanic Garden boasts 37 acres of peaceful landscaping to get lost in. Here, you’ll find flowering trees, vistas, thousands of plant species from all over the world, and the nation’s largest public bamboo collection. As you wend your way through the 29 themed gardens, you’ll catch glimpses of the Pacific Ocean beyond. The garden is currently operating by reservation only, so book ahead of time.
300 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas
1935 Cactus Garden
Riley Murphy
It’s a Self-Care Summer. Because your best self is our favorite self.
If you’re anything like us, it can be easy to get so caught up in taking care of everyone else, that your own needs get lost in the ether. But while this may be a cliché, that doesn’t make it any less true: You can’t give your best self to other people unless you’re taking care of yourself.
Sometimes, that looks like stopping in for your regular acupuncture or chiropractic appointment. Other days, it means giving your body the fresh, organic fuel it needs to truly feel and function at its best. And some other times still, it involves leaving your responsibilities behind for a weekend to pamper yourself at an incredible resort and spa.
Only you can decide what your truly need. We’re just here to help you find the best ways to get it.
Island living meets desert luxury at the Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa in Indian Wells. When you step onto the 11-acre property, you’ll be surrounded by sweeping view of the Santa Rosa Mountains with olive trees and fragrant citrus groves decorating the grounds. In other words, everything about this relaxed but refined resort is primed to help you let go of the stress from home and enjoy easy sun-soaked days and gorgeous starry nights.
The rooms blend calming, woven textures with Tommy Bahama’s signature tropical prints and feature private lanais, making it easy unwind the moment you walk in the door. If you book one of the four Villa Suites, you’ll be treated to exclusive Tommy Bahama furniture and unique personal touches to further that feeling of instant ease.
At the award-winning Spa Rosa, the expert team will help reset and recharge your body and mind using methods and rituals inspired by the desert. The 12,000-square-foot retreat includes outdoor soaking pools, eucalyptus steam rooms, and outdoor cabanas, as well as massages, facials, and body masks—all aimed at creating a day dedicated to you. We’re particularly partial to the Day Long Escape, an indulgent all-day affair of CDBs soaks, renewing scrubs, life changing massages, and transformative facials.
Following your treatment, continue the experience with a meal on the patio at Grapefruit Basil. We love the Hamachi Crudo, a light, citrus-forward dish featuring premium yellowtail, house-made ponzu, creamy avocado, and fresh seasonal garnishes.
Whether you’re strolling the gardens, relaxing beside its saltwater pools, or indulging in a restorative treatment, you’ll be able to escape in style and relax in luxury at the Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa.
There’s no shortage of ways to stay active in San Diego—but if you really want to enjoy everything the city has to offer, you’ve got to make sure you’re giving your body its tune-ups. Enter: Healcove Chiropractic. The board-certified chiropractors and wellness professionals at Healcove are experts at addressing that stage where you’re not injured, exactly, but you’re not at 100%, either. Maybe you’re feeling a bit tense or stressed out. Or it could be that you’re not quite moving the way you want to. Sometimes, it’s just that the accumulation of days, weeks, or even years of daily strain is starting to take a toll. No matter what stage you find yourself at, the Healcove Chiropractic team can provide integrated, preventative care centered on long-term, science-backed approaches that ensure you can always stay active and live the life you want to live pain-free.
This starts by providing truly individualized care. Every patient can expect a thorough 60-minute consultation session that includes a posture and movement screening. This allows the team to develop a completely personalized plan. That plan might include chiropractic care, acupuncture, or massage therapy, as well as functional fitness training, vibration and sound therapy, and Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization, a clinical rehabilitation method that retrains the body’s stabilization systems. Whatever the team recommends, you can be sure that it’s tailored to meeting your body’s needs today and the future.
There’s a reason that San Diego Magazine named Healcove the “Best Chiropractor in San Diego”—don’t wait until you’re struggling with an injury to find out why. Book an appointment today for holistic, integrated care that helps ground and heal your body before it reaches a crisis point.
West Coast wellness culture meets the community feel of Southern Appalachia at Juice Holler. Juice Holler’s menu consists of made-to-order smoothies and smoothie bowls, as well as grab-and-go cold-pressed juices, wellness shots, salads, and more. It operates from the blissfully simple premise that fueling up with food and drink that’s guilt-free and good your body should be simple, accessible, and, above all else, delicious. And if you haven’t yet made it out to the Encinitas café, which opened just this year, let us be the first to tell you: Juice Holler delivers on each and every of these fronts.
We love the Supercharger smoothie, a mood-lifting and body-fueling option made with banana, almond butter, blue spirulina, maca, grass-fed whey protein, raw cacao nibs, medjool dates, and coconut milk. We’re also partial to the Thrive Alive smoothie bowl, where avocado, mango, sea moss, spirulina, mint, coconut milk, and agave are mixed and topped with coconut, chia seeds, strawberry, mango, and chocolate drizzle. The wellness shots include the Detoxifier, a cleansing blend of kale, cucumber, lemon and spirulina, plus a shot specially designed to fight inflammation (named, fittingly, Anti-Inflammation). Probiotic overnight oats, lemon turmeric bars, and strawberry shortcake chia pudding are other standouts on the grab-and-go menu.
Much of the vibe feels beachy North County chic—think green tile with orange and pink accents, grounded with greenery and natural wood—but Juice Holler founder Kelly Sergott, a longtime Encinitas local, has also enfused the space with her Kentucky roots. In Appalachia, a holler is small valley between hills and mountains, where nature reigns, community is king, and nourishment comes right from the land. At Juice Holler, Sergott has created a holler for the busy modern times, using local ingredients to create a spot for people to come together and enjoy fresh, fast, feel-good fuel for their day.
We’ve all had that experience with a medical professional where we’ve felt rushed, ignored, or misunderstood—and ultimately, like we didn’t get the answers that we needed. But at Everwell, the holistic acupuncture practice located in Solana Beach, the care team wants to transform your understanding of what healthcare can look like.
Patients at Everwell experience care rooted in intentional listening and radical empathy—and trust us, those aren’t just corporate buzzwords. This place actually puts those ideas into practice. You will always be given the time you need to tell your story— initial in-take appointments are two hours long—and you can rest assured that your story will be believed. Every single question and concern will be addressed by a dedicated practitioner who wants to find the specific solutions that work best for you, and you’ll receive care that’s aimed at healing the body, mind, and spirit.
Everwell’s highly trained, doctorate-level practitioners blend evidence-based acupuncture with the practice of classical Chinese medicine. (If you’ve never tried acupuncture before or aren’t sure if the team will be a fit, we’d highly recommended Everwell’s complimentary 20-minute consultations.) Research shows that by stimulating specific points on the body, acupuncture activates a natural healing response in the body, helping to restore balance, regulate the nervous system, and improve overall wellbeing. This allows the practice to address an incredibly wide range of conditions from chronic pain and autoimmune disorders to digestive issues, from stress and burnout to headaches migraines, fertility and postpartum struggles, hormonal imbalances, sleep concerns and more.
At Everwell, you can expect to feel heard, trusted, respected, and cared for. This is a space that doesn’t want to be just another healthcare provider you visit; it wants to provide patients with dedicated partner who will be there for their entire health journey.
