From impressive company soirees to intimate family gatherings, sometimes you need some professional flair to make your special event truly sing. Private dining pushes the envelope with exceptional service, and we have your go-to guide for all things dining outside the home. Leave the dishes in the cupboard and spoil yourself with these hospitality pros who will take the reins of your hyped occasion and take it to the level it deserves. Read on for all the styles and spaces that aim to give you the top-drawer treatment, just in time for the holidays.
La Puerta
Mission Hills
4021 Goldfinch Street San Diego, California 92103
Dine under our beautiful plant walls and disco balls at La Puerta in Mission Hills. For larger events, our private event space can hold up to 200 people. Our back room accommodates up to 50 people, making it a great space for birthdays, bachelorettes, baby showers, rehearsal dinners, meetings, or just a fun night out. A back room buy out can include either a seated meal or a serve-yourself taco and quesadilla bar and tray-passed appetizers. We also offer event coordination and customizable set food and beverage menus to help you plan the perfect event.
Open daily for lunch and dinner, and serving weekend brunch
Space for seated- or cocktail-style events
Space for private and semiprivate fiestas
Excellent menu offerings and award-winning margaritas
Centrally located, with close proximity to downtown, Old Town, and Mission Valley lodging
Piper
105 Mission Avenue Oceanside, California 92054
Located at The Seabird Resort in Oceanside is Piper’s garden-to-table dining room, steps away from the beach. Helmed by Chef Chris Carriker, Piper’s menu is a garden-to-table selection boasting seasonal ingredients and fresh takes on classic dishes from morning to night. With a bright and open dining room complete with flexible seating options, Piper offers unique private and -semiprivate dining spaces perfect for birthdays, team meals, reunions, bridal showers, corporate team retreats, or large family gatherings! Private parties can take advantage of Piper’s alfresco outdoor patio experience or indoor banquet table for a unique dining experience with their group, as well.
Indoor banquet table that can host up to 12 guests
Full dining room that can host up to 130 guests
Close access to resort amenities, including a spa
Ability to customize culinary and beverage offerings
Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa
5921 Valencia Circle Rancho Santa Fe, California 92067
Far from ordinary, simply perfect. Rancho Valencia is a renowned and favored destination in north San Diego County, with a variety of stunning indoor and outdoor dining and event venues—from our sumptuous Terrace Room and Wine Cave to our airy and lush outdoor garden locations, our individually designed private spaces provide the perfect backdrop for parties and events of all sizes.
Book your next private party or retreat at Rancho Valencia, and enjoy the exceptional 5-star service and luxury your event deserves. Rancho Valencia’s inspiring, romantic, and unique event and dining space opens through windowed doors to spacious outdoor patios and terraces surrounded by verdant foliage. Let Rancho Valencia curate your perfect private event.
Forbes 5-Star rated resort and spa providing exceptional service across our 45-acre Spanish Colonial hacienda-inspired enclave
Local and sustainably sourced Coastal Ranch cuisine with customized private dining menus
Multiple private and semi-private spaces for groups of 10 to 500
Dedicated private dining director to help plan your perfect event
Provides privacy and exclusivity for parties of any size
Roy’s Restaurant
333 West Harbor Drive San Diego, California 92101
Situated on the grounds of the Marriott Marquis, Roy’s San Diego offers sweeping views of the marina and San Diego Bay. From our intimate wine room to our breezy outdoor lanai to full restaurant buyouts, we have the perfect space for your next event.
Our seasonally inspired menu is an artful fusion of bold Asian flavors and classic French preparations, brought together to create Roy Yamaguchi’s signature Hawaiian Fusion cuisine. Enjoy one of our signature tropical cocktails or allow us to craft a custom cocktail just for your guests. Complete your dining experience with a selection from our expansive wine list.
For an event they’ll rave about, we invite you to experience Roy’s San Diego.
Multiple private and semiprivate spaces for groups of 10 to 500
Dedicated private dining director to help plan your perfect event
Custom menus and cocktails available
State-of-the-art audio-visual equipment
STK Steakhouse
600 F Street San Diego, California 92101
STK Steakhouse San Diego artfully blends the modern steakhouse and chic lounge into one, offering a dynamic fine dining experience with the superior quality of a traditional steakhouse. Located in the Andaz Hotel in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, the restaurant offers brunch, dinner, and happy hour with an unparalleled selection of steak, salads, and other entrees. The social dining experience is enhanced by an in-house DJ on Fridays and Saturdays creating an infectious, high-energy vibe. The menu features reimagined classic American cuisine with signature dishes and innovative cocktails, like the Cucumber Stiletto featuring Grey Goose citron vodka, St-Germain, muddled cucumber, and mint. As anticipated, steak is the main attraction. STK’s one of a kind, curated experience offers a variety of cuts like filet, New York strip, Tomahawk, Wagyu, and cowgirl rib-eye. Outstanding poultry and fish entrées are also available plus signature items including Parmesan truffle fries, Lil’ BRGs, tuna tartare, and sweet corn pudding.
Tempest Storm & Candy Bar: Intimate private dining spaces for up to 36 guests
Blaze Starr: Private, open-air atrium for up to 60 guests
Mezzanine: Lively, semiprivate second floor space
Outdoor Patio: Outdoor experience that is perfect for a cocktail reception
Main Dining: Ideal for large parties and seated dinners
Cardellino Italian Chophouse
4033 Goldfinch Street, San Diego, California 92103
Cardellino’s warm and welcoming private dining room boasts one long, communal table that seats up to 16 of your friends and family, alongside a suite of audio and visual equipment. In the kitchen, Chef Brad Wise blends cuisines and traditions—a Midwest chophouse with an Italian trattoria—to serve wood-grilled steaks, handmade pastas, and seasonal antipasti and sides meant to please a crowd.
330 S Cedros Avenue, Solana Beach, California 92075
Invoking the lore of Rat Pack gatherings and raucous Sinatra dinner parties, Rare Society’s private dining room holds 24 friends across two tables. Opulent yet approachable, the tucked-away space boasts a gold-paneled ceiling, a black marble bar, oversized velvet chairs and state-of-the-art presentation technology. Feast on a custom menu of steakhouse classics grilled over the flame, while a full-service bar and wine cellar keeps the party going well into the night.
Fully private dining room that seats up to 24 guests
Customized food and beverage menus
Personalized event planner
The Marine Room
2000 Spindrift Drive La Jolla, CA 92037
San Diego’s iconic Marine Room pairs dramatic views with carefully crafted plates. From intimate group gatherings to large receptions, The Marine Room accents events with a masterful Coastal California menu, combining the region’s freshest ingredients with innovative culinary flair. Plan inspired gatherings at a landmark destination where an oceanfront setting and seafood-centric offerings set the tone for an unforgettable event.
Private and semiprivate spaces that accommodate 12 to 200 people
Curated and customized menus by the award-winning culinary team
Polished service for lunch or dinner from seasoned staff
The Shores Restaurant
8110 Camino Del Oro La Jolla, CA 92037
Step into a SoCal paradise at La Jolla Shores Hotel and Restaurant where jaw-dropping ocean views are paired with fresh and sustainable Baja-inspired cuisine. Sip curated cocktails and craft beers just steps from the sand at a variety of unique event spaces. Groups of any size can be accommodated on the new beachfront lawn, open-air patios or the private, ocean view Acapulco deck. Bring the whole gang and make memories at this seaside escape.
Private indoor and outdoor venues from 40-300 guests
Event coordination from our friendly and experienced catering team
Customized and creative menus to accommodate all event types
Bali Hai Restaurant
2230 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego, California 92106
The Bali Hai Restaurant has been a favorite event venue in San Diego for 70 years. The spectacular view of San Diego Bay and the downtown skyline make it the perfect location for all private events. The versatile spaces provide accommodations for festivities of any type or size. Whether you’re planning a wedding, class reunion, birthday, anniversary, rehearsal dinner, celebration of life, fundraiser, business meeting, or corporate event, the Bali Hai provides an incredible canvas for moments that will last a lifetime. Offering extensive food and drink packages, from a luau buffet menu, plated meal service, or a private brunch buffet, we have many options available with friendly, efficient, and experienced staff on-site to assist in making your private dining experience one to remember.
Three private spaces to accommodate parties from 30 to 300 guests
Free parking for all restaurant and event guests and access to our private dock for boat arrivals and departures
A variety of plated and buffet menus available
Tom Ham’s Lighthouse
2150 Harbor Island Drive, San Diego, California 92101
Tom Ham’s Lighthouse, a San Diego landmark on Harbor Island, has been a destination for memorable events for decades. Featuring breathtaking views of the San Diego Bay, Coronado Bridge, and downtown skyline, Tom Ham’s has the perfect backdrop for any type of private dining experience. Offering guests three different private event spaces, both indoor and outdoor, for groups of 15 to 200 guests. This venue has been the go-to location for corporate luncheons, holiday parties, birthdays, weddings, private Champagne brunches, and so much more.
Three private indoor and outdoor spaces accommodating parties from 15 to 240 guests with free parking available
Corporate event amenities including black-out shades, podium, mic and speaker, and more
A variety of plated or buffet menus available
Understory Bar
12841 El Camino Real, Suite 209-210 San Diego, California 92130
Understory is a high-end central cocktail bar that exudes elegance and sophistication. Nestled within a bustling food court, it offers a unique and luxurious experience for the discerning palate. Patrons can enjoy a wide range of handcrafted cocktails expertly prepared by talented mixologists, while indulging in delectable dishes from nine top-class restaurants within the same food court. With its stylish decor, ambient lighting, and an extensive menu spanning various cuisines, Understory is the perfect destination to unwind, socialize, and savor the finest flavors in town.
Complete or partial buyouts for parties of 20 to 150 people
Private tastings and mixology classes with a cocktail-paired tasting menu
Customizable events with one-on-one event planning
Available for off-site parties—We’ll bring Understory to YOU with curated cocktail experiences delivered
Bronze Bird
910 Broadway Circle, San Diego, California 92101
BRONZE BIRD FOOD WINE & SPIRITS channels a contemporary San Diego vibe with urban-coastal décor, seasonal So-Cal cuisine, and craft drinks. The spacious private dining room offers versatile seating options and an adjoining patio.
Private dining room capacity for 36 people seated or 80 reception style
On-site valet parking available
Barrel and Board Social
1027 University Avenue, San Diego, California 92103
Slip into Hillcrest’s candlelit hot spot for chef-inspired sharable boards, craft cocktails, and sparkling chandeliers. We specialize in offering woman-forward and POC wine and spirits for something intimate or something eventful.
Most homeowners want two things before they commit to a remodel: a realistic sense of cost and a clear picture of what the finished space will look like. Milan Design + Build helps deliver both through its online remodeling estimator and personalized design consultations, supported by a showroom experience and 3D renderings.
“The online estimate gives homeowners a starting number in about a minute, and the showroom and 3D renderings let them see materials and layouts before anything is built,” says David Noriani, CEO of Milan Design + Build. “Keeping design, permits, and construction with one team helps us manage expectations and keep everyone working toward the same vision.”
Courtesy of Milan Design
Modern design is a particular focus for Milan, with an emphasis on clean lines, natural light, functional layouts, and carefully selected materials. The team adapts each design to the homeowner’s lifestyle and the character of the property. Milan Design + Build combines thoughtful design with construction expertise, creating spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful.
The online estimator covers kitchen remodels, bathroom renovations, full-home remodels, and ADU construction. At Milan’s showroom on Carroll Road, visitors can review real materials, finishes, and design options, meet the design-build team, and discuss project scope, budget, and timing. Consultations can also be held virtually for homeowners who prefer to start remotely.
At Milan Design + Build, one integrated team works on the entire project. Design and construction aren’t divided between separate firms. The process begins with a consultation and feasibility review, followed by design, space planning, and 3D renderings developed from detailed measurements and digital scans. The team also coordinates architectural plans, structural engineering, city approvals, and material selection, with construction overseen by a dedicated project manager.
Homeowners can explore their remodeling options, get an initial estimate, or request a design consultation at MilanBuild.com.
Association of Fundraising Professionals San Diego To Recognize 11 Honorees at 54th Annual National Philanthropy Day in November
This year’s theme, 'Impact Through Philanthropy,’ spotlights the impact of individuals, businesses and community organizations throughout San Diego County.
“Impact through Philanthropy isn’t just a theme; it’s what we see every day in San Diego’s diverse communities,” said Ingrid de Llamas, CFRE, IAP, AFP San Diego chapter president. “The honorees show what’s possible when intention meets generosity, leadership and dedication come together. We’re honored to celebrate the honorees alongside our presenting sponsor, PNC Bank.”
“Philanthropy is one of San Diego’s great strengths—not just because of this community’s generosity, but because of what happens when people unite around the belief that our region can be better,” said Mark Stuart, President & CEO of the San Diego Foundation and Honorary Committee Chair for National Philanthropy Day. “National Philanthropy Day lets us recognize the donors, volunteers, fundraisers, and organizations who turn that belief into action, strengthening lives throughout our community. Celebrating them reminds us all of the extraordinary power we have when we work together.”
Eleven honorees, including eight individuals and three organizations, were selected from scores of nominees submitted from throughout San Diego County. Honorees were selected through a rigorous vetting process by AFP San Diego’s Honorary Committee.
2026 National Philanthropy Day Honorees:
Outstanding Development Professional, Emerging Leader – Miguel Lopez, CFRE (San Diego Foundation)
Outstanding Development Professional, Mid-Career – Amie Brown, CFRM (Meals on Wheels San Diego County)
Outstanding Development Professional, Career Achievement – David Hanses (Scripps Institution of Oceanography)
Outstanding Organization, IDEA – The San Diego LGBT Community Center
Outstanding Grantmaking Organization – David C. Copley Foundation
Outstanding Philanthropic Business or Corporation – Maya’s Cookies
Outstanding Student Volunteer – Chris Zheng (Casa de Amistad)
Outstanding Volunteer – Dr. Suzanne Afflalo (A Healthier Me)
Outstanding Volunteer – Fred Davis (Serving Seniors)
Outstanding Philanthropists – Mel & Linda Katz
Special Lifetime Achievement Award – Ingrid de Llamas, CFRE, IAP
National Philanthropy Day Supports AFP San Diego’s Empower Fund
Beyond recognizing local philanthropic leadership, National Philanthropy Day supports the Empower Fund, powered by U.S. Bank, which provides scholarships, educational opportunities and professional development for nonprofit leaders.
In its inaugural year, AFP San Diego raised $28,000 for the Empower Fund through National Philanthropy Day, with a goal of $50,000 in 2026. Contributions directly support educational initiatives for nonprofit professionals throughout the region. Donations are accepted year-round.
AFP San Diego’s National Philanthropy Day is made possible through the generous support of Presenting Sponsor PNC Bank, Empower Sponsor U.S. Bank, Focus Sponsor Sanford Institute of Philanthropy at NU and dozens of partners. View the full list of 2026 sponsors.
Event Details
Friday, Nov. 13, 2026 | 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Manchester Grand Hyatt, 1 Market Place, San Diego, CA 92101
Tickets and partnership opportunities are available at AFPSD.org – NPD 2026! For more information, contact Fiona King at 619-538-6605 or [email protected].
About AFP San Diego
The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) San Diego Chapter has supported fundraising professionals and nonprofit leaders throughout San Diego County since 1974. Through professional education, mentorship, networking and leadership opportunities, AFP San Diego connects people at every stage of their careers while advancing ethical and effective fundraising practices. With more than 350 local members and connections to a global network of fundraising professionals, AFP San Diego invests in the people behind philanthropy to strengthen nonprofits and the communities they serve. Learn more at AFPSD.org & follow AFPSD on LinkedIn
In the last several years, there’s been a surge in FDA approvals for what’s known as oral oncolytics. Oral oncolytics are targeted cancer therapies that come in tablet, capsule or liquid form that patients can take at home, rather than in an infusion clinic. Scripps physicians have seen exponential growth using this approach, with patients citing convenience as a major quality-of-life enhancement in their cancer treatment. This approach also allows treatments to be customized based on specific genetic mutations and a patient’s unique disease biology. Find out more about oral oncolytics here.
For more nutrition, wellness, and healthy living tips, sign up for the San Diego Health newsletter here.
Meet San Diego’s leading healthcare professionals, delivering exceptional medical and dental care through innovation, expertise, and dedication to patients.
Unio Specialty Care is a multi-specialty practice specializing in urology, gastroenterology, and radiation oncology.
Unio’s Radiation Oncology team—Dr. Donald B. Fuller, Dr. Tahir Ijaz, Dr. Reza Shirazi, and Dr. Siavosh Vakilian—combines extensive clinical experience with a commitment to personalized cancer care. The RO team treats cancerous and non-cancerous conditions using precision therapies including SBRT, IGRT, and the CyberKnife® S7 System, the only system of its kind in Southern California. Their expertise spans prostate, breast, lung, gastrointestinal, pancreatic, and central nervous system cancers, as well as low-dose radiotherapy for osteoarthritis.
In 2026, Dr. Shirazi and Dr. Vakilian were recognized as San Diego Top Doctors, joining Dr. Fuller and Dr. Ijaz, who have previously received this distinction.
Faces of Healthcare 2026: San Diego Fertility Center
Meet San Diego’s leading healthcare professionals, delivering exceptional medical and dental care through innovation, expertise, and dedication to patients.
Susanna Park, MD; Sandy Chuan, MD; Brooke Friedman, MD; Said Daneshmand, MD; Valerie Flores, MD; Bryn Willson, MD
At San Diego Fertility Center, parenthood starts with personalized, cutting-edge care. Nationally recognized physicians offer individualized plans spanning IVF, PGT, egg donation, surrogacy, Gentle IVF, fertility preservation, and LGBTQ+ family building. Newsweek ranked them among America’s Best Fertility Clinics in 2026: top 6% of 450+ clinics nationwide, and best in San Diego.
“Remind yourself you are not alone! You don’t have to have all the answers before you walk through the door,” says Dr. Friedman. “Our job is to listen, explain your options, and guide you toward what makes sense for you. Because fertility care isn’t one-size-fits-all — and building your family should feel like your journey, supported every step of the way.”
Faces of Healthcare 2026: North County Cardiovascular Specialists
Meet San Diego’s leading healthcare professionals, delivering exceptional medical and dental care through innovation, expertise, and dedication to patients.
At NCCS, both doctors take a personal, traditional approach to cardiovascular care. Patients speak directly with their physicians and build lasting relationships with doctors who know them.
“We became doctors to care for patients, not to run a business,” says Dr. Kabra, who trained in England and the United States and leads the practice’s office-based cardiac care. Dr. Rajamanickam, an interventional cardiologist trained under renowned Dr. Samin Sharma, shares the same philosophy.
Guided by evidence-based medicine, they tailor care to each patient’s unique history, physiology, lifestyle and goals. Both are respected, well-reviewed physicians and four-time Top Doctors.
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3142 Vista Way, Suite 206, Oceanside, CA 92056 760-224-7776
