PEOPLE ARE WHAT ELEVATE SAN DIEGO from a beautiful beach town to America’s Finest City. San Diego is a city of entrepreneurs, experts, and influencers, who drive their respective industries forward and pioneer new ideas. The innovators featured here are moving the needle in health care, finance, real estate, fitness, and more. Meet the 2024 […]
PEOPLE ARE WHAT ELEVATE SAN DIEGO from a beautiful beach town to America’s Finest City. San Diego is a city of entrepreneurs, experts, and influencers, who drive their respective industries forward and pioneer new ideas. The innovators featured here are moving the needle in health care, finance, real estate, fitness, and more. Meet the 2024 Faces of San Diego.
The Face Of Aesthetic and Regenerative Medicine | Margo Aura Emami, MD
COMPASSIONATE AND INTUITIVE BY NATURE, Dr. Margo Aura Emami embodies the art and science of natural beauty. “True beauty begins at the cellular level and is intimately tied to our physical and mental health,” she explains. This Harvard-trained physician with 30 ears of experience and fellowships in aesthetic, regenerative, and anti-aging medicine founded AURAE MD as a comprehensive center for preventive and restorative therapies.
Known for her warm bedside manner, Dr. Emami performs each procedure herself. including nonsurgical face and neck lifts, radio frequency micro needling, PL, lasers, fillers, and Botox. (She is one of the first to offer Daxxify, the new wrinkle relaxer that lasts for six months.)
“Patients desire minimally invasive, comfortable treatments with little to no downtime and natural results. It’s important to use the most highly proven and effective technologies and to know how to choose the right treatment in the right combination for each patient.”
AURAE MD extends beyond aesthetics, offering customizable wellness plans that help reduce fat, tighten skin, and tone muscle without surgery. From state-of-the-art skincare to Hydrafacials, acne management, regenerative therapies, and nutritional support, AURA MD stands as the ultimate destination for aesthetics and wellness.
9850 Genesee Avenue, Suite 840La Jolla, California 92037 I 858-461-8543 I auraemd.com
The Face OfNonprofits
Fresh Start Surgical Gifts | Shari Brasher and Michelle Pius
FRESH START SURGICAL GIFTS IS COMMITTED TO TRANSFORMING THE LIVES OF DISADVANTAGED YOUTH with physical deformities by providing comprehensive reconstructive surgery at no cost to the patient and their family. World-class medical professionals generously donate their time and talent to deliver much needed medical care, and 100% of all financial contributions directly benefit the children’s medical program. Every dollar donated allows Fresh Start to gift five dollars in medical services. “Since 1991, Fresh Start has transformed the lives of 9,017 children, infants, children, and teens with highly specialized medical care and related services valued at over $59,664,350 at no cost to patients or their families,” says CEO Shari Brasher. Headquartered in San Diego, the nonprofit has expanded into multiple regions throughout the U.S. and globally. Fresh Start accepts ongoing applications, with the goal of making screenings, medical care, and treatments available to as many children as possible.
2011 Palomar Airport Road, Suite 206 Carlsbad, California 92011 I 760-944-7774 | freshstart.org
The Face of Marketing, Branding, and Advertising | InnoVision Marketing Group
As A FULL-SERVICE MARKETING AND ADVERTISING “ANTI-AGENCY” WITH GLOBAL REACH, InnoVision Marketing Group combines strategy, storytelling, and creativity to create campaigns that drive results. One of San Diego’s largest marketing firms, InnoVision serves clients around the world in hospitality, travel, retail, restaurants, healthcare, and more, including an extensive Hispanic marketing division. CEO/Executive Creative Director Ric Militi leads a stellar team of creatives and business strategists who are no strangers to industry accolades, having earned San Diego Business Journal’s Best Places to Work 2022; San Diego Business Journal’s CEO of the Year Award 2022-Ric Militi; North San Diego Business Chamber Emerging Leader 2022-Alanna Markey; Content Marketing Award 2023 Sandie Awards: and San Diego Business Journal’s Leaders of Influence in Advertising, PR, & Marketing 2023-Ric Militi. Committed to giving back, InnoVision offers preferred pricing and pro bono services to multiple nonprofits including Fresh Start Surgical Gifts, Solutions for Change, the National Native American Human Resources Association, and the Fentanyl United Crisis Coalition. “We’re a culture-first company who provides every client an experience so extraordinary, they will feel as if they’re our only client,” says Militi FACES OF SAN DIEGO
5961 Kearny Villa Road San Diego, California 92123 | 619-356-3020 | teaminnovision.com
WITH A MISSION TO HEAL, COMFORT, AND PROMOTE HEALTH IN THE COMMUNITIES IT SERVES, Palomar Health is recognized as the largest healthcare district in California. In 2022, Palomar Health was designated the Association of California Healthcare District’s District of the Year, which speaks to Palomar Health’s unwavering commitment to excellence. “The impact we have on our community is what I find most rewarding,” says CEO Diane Hansen. “Our success is rooted in our compassion. We don’t just treat patients; we embrace them as family, extending a level of care that goes beyond medicine and resonates with empathy.” With top quality, comprehensive services, Palomar Health has built a coordinated system of care that emphasizes technology, expertise, and access anchored by two hospital campuses. Palomar Health offers an array of acute care services, obstetrics, rehabilitation, behavioral health, orthopedics, a full trauma center, innovative robotics, oncology services, and neonatal intensive care. Hansen notes, “We strive to ensure that the patients and members in our district don’t have to travel outside of their community to receive top-notch, state-of-the-art care.”
2185 Citracado Parkway Escondido, 92029 I 15615 Pomerado Road Poway, 92064 I 858-613-4000 I palomarhealth.org
The Face of Insurance Services
Chris Williams, Principal and CEO-West Region | Marsh McLennan Agency
“AS BUSINESSES EXPERIENCE DRASTIC CHANGES IN RISK AND THE NEEDS OF TODAY’S WORKFORCE EVOLVE, it’s our job to support our clients in pursuing limitless opportunity,” says Chris Williams, principal and CEO of Marsh McLennan Agency’s West Region.
Marsh McLennan Agency offers a combination of local specialists and global resources, providing innovative business insurance, employee health and benefits, and retirement solutions to businesses and individuals across the region. In addition to its work with clients, the firm prioritizes a mission of being there in the moments that matter for clients, colleagues, and the community through the work of its Barney & Barney Foundation.
In his role, Williams focuses on ensuring top-tier service and support for clients while also finding new ways to pair passion with purpose through giving back.
9171 Towne Centre Drive, Suite 100 San Diego, California I 192122 1-800-321-4696 I I marshmma.com
The Face of San Diego Dining
Matt Spencer | SDCM Restaurant Group
SDM RESTAURANT GROUP IS KNOWN FOR ITS ABILITY TO BALANCE HIGH•END CULINARY AND BEVERAGE OFFERINGS with a late-night lounge scene vibe. The result? SDCM creates spaces with a multisensory experience in mind.
“I got my first busboy job at age 16 and have been in the restaurant and lounge industry my entire career,” says owner Matt Spencer. “I have an innate appreciation for how far dining in San Diego has come, and I’m proud that I’ve been able to contribute to its evolution.”
Spencer has conceptualized, helped design, and opened each of the group’s San Diego venues, which include notable names like Waverly, Kettner Exchange, FIREHOUSE, Vin de Syrah, and Devil’s Dozen.
“We’ve been fortunate to win awards in an array of categories that are so important to SDCM. The Michelin Bib Gourmand and the Orchids for both Design and Architecture are a few of our top accolades.”
Krithi Rao Bindal, PhD, MBA | Aroga Biosciences, Inc.
DR. KRITHI RAO BINDAL, PRESIDENT AND FOUNDER OF AROGA BIOSCIENCES, believes the development of novel therapeutics for patients should be handled with compassion, commitment, technical expertise, and the utmost adherence to regulatory standards.
At Aroga Biosciences, Dr. Bindal uses her 15 years of experience in biotech and pharma industries to do exactly this. Always following their motto, “strength from science,” Dr. Bindal and her team develop preclinical and clinical research submissions, which are critical to the biopharma industry in drug development-and ultimately, for helping provide better care for ailing patients.
Dr. Bindal and her diverse team at Aroga have been consistently recognized for their work, including being named this year as a Top 40 Under 40 Business Leader by the San Diego Business Journal and Top Medical Writing CRO by Life Science Review. Previous accolades include being named a Top Leader of Influence in Life Science by the San Diego Business Journal and a Top 10 CRO by PharmaTech Outlook Magazine.
6496 Weathers Place, Suite 200 San Diego, California 92121 | 858-925-6145 | arogabio.com
The Face of Rejuvenation and Wellness
Lorena and Jean-Michel | Balensi Balensi Spa
WHEN BALENSI SPA FOUNDERS LORENA AND JEAN-MICHEL BALENSI OPENED THEIR DOORS TWO DECADES AGO, they wanted to offer a place where people could disconnect, relax, and leave satisfied with their service and results. It would seem they’ve more than met that goal: Today, they’re still serving some of the same clients 21 years later. Of course, Jean-Michel says he and his wife don’t see the people they treat as customers or clients; they think of them as guests-“and we’re happy to pamper them,” Lorena adds.
The cozy, peaceful spa specializes in a wide-range of facials and also provides other unbeatable spa treatments. With an emphasis on providing relaxing care, as opposed to aggressive treatments, Balensi Spa‘s professionally trained technicians can repair years of damage to reveal fresher and younger skin.
Beginning January 2024, Balensi Spa is excited to announced it’s offering franchises, allowing these expert services to reach even more guests.
FOR MORE THAN A DECADE, MIKE TERESSO HAS BEEN PRESIDENT OF BAKER HOME ENERGY. He is a trusted energy expert who empowers his customers to save money, live in comfort, and enjoy peace of mind in a world of rising energy costs and grid instability.
A champion of positive solar policy, Teresso was named Solar Power World’s 2022 Top Solar Advocate, and he has testified on solar projects and initiatives everywhere from California to Washington, D.C. Meanwhile, Baker, with over 300 local employees, has been a staple in San Diego for over 85 years. It is a proud local community partner with the San Diego Food Bank and is recognized on a local and national level for outstanding contributions to solar energy in Southern California.
From solar, battery, roofing, and EV charging to cooling and heating, Mike’s mission is to empower San Diego homeowners to cost-effectively generate, store, consume, and manage their own home energy.
2120 Harmony Grove Road, Escondido, California 92029 | 877-578-8080 | bakerhomeenergy.com
The Face of Cabinets and Kitchens
Melissa and Chris Perez | Boyar’s Kitchen Cabinets
CELEBRATING 50 YEARS IN SAN DIEGO, Melissa and Chris Perez have been the face of Boyar’s Kitchen Cabinets for decades and were already managing the operations when they took ownership in 2019. Apart from Chris and Melissa’s titles, little has changed at the company.
Boyar’s has retained its same employees, its same exceptional customer service, and its same top quality that is backed with a lifetime warranty. Melissa says, “Our entire company is committed to delivering the best possible work.”
Boyar’s specializes in cabinet refacing and all new, fully custom cabinets. The true definition of a local, family-owned company, Boyar’s prides itself not just on its work, but on its service. Melissa, Chris, and their staff are people who clients can reach when they need them and who care about every home like their own.
Melissa and Chris Perez are most proud of their dedicated employees and their superior craftsmanship. They’re honored to lead the company, alongside their children and tenured staff, into its next 50 years!
7020 Carroll Road San Diego, California 92121 | 858-549-2000 | boyarscabinets.com
The Face of Authentic Italian Dining
Mario Cassineri | Ciccia Osteria
IF YOU’RE SEARCHING FOR AUTHENTIC, FLAVORFUL, UNIQUE ITALIAN CUISINE AT AN AFFORDABLE PRICE POINT, look no further than Barrio Logan’s Ciccia Osteria. Owned by renowned Chef Mario Cassineri, Ciccia Osteria offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere where guests are made to feel at home. Reservations are suggested as the place fills fast.
But what really sets the restaurant apart is its menu—a beautiful mix of authentic Italian food that honors the recipes of Cassineri’s experience and some from his mother and grandmother, combined with the chef’s desire to take risks and add a modern touch. “We have Italian dishes that you can’t find anywhere else,” Cassineri says.
Whatever guests try, they always leave happy and satisfied. “Cooking is an act of love for me,” Cassineri adds. “My goal is always to serve delicious food and provide cozy, good service, so people leave with a smile.”
2233 Logan Avenue San Diego, California 92113 | 619-674-4069 | cicciasandiego.com
The Face of Wealth Management
Elisabeth Dawson | Copia Wealth Management & Insurance Services
AS THE FOUNDER OF COPIA WEALTH MANAGEMENT & INSURANCE SERVICES and Copia Wealth Management Advisors, Inc., Elisabeth Dawson has 25 years of expertise in the financial industry. Elisabeth’s passion is educating people about their relationship with money so that they can live their dream financial lives while removing any fear and uncertainty surrounding their finances. As a Retirement Income Specialist, Elisabeth shows clients how to create lifetime income that eliminates concerns of running out of money.
Unlike traditional financial planning, Elisabeth offers clients a holistic experience by educating, coaching, and developing strategies for every financial life decision. Each plan is customized for a person’s unique goals and best interests. “We help our clients achieve possibilities they thought were out of reach. Our strategic approach focuses on their wish list so they can live their ideal retirement, protect their loved ones, and never worry about running out of money.”
2333 Camino del Rio South, Suite 240 San Diego, California 92108 | 619-640-2622 | copiawm.com | CA LIC. #0C72164, #0G81294
The Face of Fitness
FireSnake Fitness
AT FIRESNAKE FITNESS, OWNER AMY MINNICK AND HER EXPERIENCED, LICENSED TEAM are the first company in San Diego to provide FDA-cleared, total-body electro-muscle- stimulation (EMS). This innovative, scientifically proven personal training service has been shown to be 20 times more effective than conventional strength training. Due to the full body activation and intensity of EMS training, sessions only need to be conducted once per week for 20 minutes to equal the benefits of 2.5 hours of conventional strength training.
The training can be customized to meet most clients’ desires, whether that’s getting in shape; building lean, symmetrical muscle; improving metabolism; reducing muscle atrophy; or boosting muscle recovery and rehabilitation. No matter where you are on your wellness journey, EMS training can support your needs.
FireSnake Fitness has witnessed the drastic difference that only a few EMS sessions can start to make on clients’ bodies and could do the same for you.
FireSnake Fitness has three locations for your convenience. Mobile concierge is also available.
8127 La Mesa Blvd, Studio 306 La Mesa, California 91942
1022 N El Camino Real, Studio 109 Encinitas, California 92024
3055 University Avenue, Studio 105 San Diego, California 92104
Ankur Bindal, MD and Randi Maples, PsyD | KAB Medical Group (KMG Psychiatry)
DR. ANKUR BINDAL IS THE FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT OF KAB MEDICAL GROUP INC., an integrative psychiatry practice that provides quality, compassionate, individualized care for every patient. Looking to help individuals heal, discover their strengths, and live fulfilling lives, KMG Psychiatry takes pride in helping underserved populations and specializes in treating depression and PTSD for military personnel. It also helps individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, panic disorders, and autism spectrum disorders, among other things.
Dr. Bindal is a board-certified psychiatrist and board-certified sleep specialist with over 16 years of experience in medicine. His comprehensive care includes medication management, cognitive-behavioral therapy, sleep medicine, intranasal ketamine treatments, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation.
He has been named a Diamond Circle Provider for three straight years, and received the Outstanding Leadership Award and Outstanding Corporation Award by Health Conference 2.0. He serves on multiple boards for Artificial Intelligence companies, is a commercial real estate entrepreneur, and is an appointed Board Member of the Department of Consumer Affairs’ Structural Pest Control Board.
765 Third Avenue Suite 100 Chula Vista, California 91910
6496 Weathers Place Suite 100 & 110 San Diego, California 92121
1968 Via Center Suite 100, Vista, California 92081
THE KEBAB SHOP HAS COME A LONG WAY SINCE IT OPENED IN EAST VILLAGE 16 YEARS AGO. Today, the Mediterranean eatery has 45 locations across three different states. But in every location, you’ll find the San Diego Wrap on the menu. That’s because San Diego isn’t just the restaurant’s birthplace. “San Diego is at the core of everything we do,” says Wally Sadat, chief marketing officer and co-owner of The Kebab Shop. No matter how much the restaurant has grown, it has stayed a social, fun, and laidback place, reflecting the energy of San Diego itself.
The Kebab Shop is still growing. “We focus on creating a memorable experience for every guest with not just great food, but also service and convenience features that are similar to what they get from large national brands,” Sadat says.
The result? The restaurants continue to change the kebab game by mixing convenience and innovation with awesome feels and mom-and-pop shop flavors. In other words, totally San Diego.
IN APRIL, MESA DENTAL OPENED A NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTAL OFFICE in the heart of San Diego. The beautiful office is equipped with the most advanced technologies available in dentistry along with the award-winning service that Mesa Dental is known for.
The office is led by Dr. Qadeer, a self-professed perfectionist who has received several Best Service Awards among multiple dental insurance providers for his patient care.
As a Gold provider for Invisalign with the latest Itero scanner and offering an in house CBCT, Mesa Dental makes it easy for patients looking for cosmetic, orthodontics, implant, and restorative dentistry treatments.
“Many patients avoid dental work due to fear and anxiety. We eliminate fear with one simple rule: love,” he says.
Dr. Qadeer is a proud member of the San Diego County Dental Society, California Dental Association, the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.
6215 Beadnell Way, San Diego, California 92117 | 858-514-4290 | mesadentalsd.com
The Face of Audiology and Hearing Aids
Linda Oliver AuD | Oliver Audiology & Hearing Aid Services
LOCATED IN OLD TOWN SAN DIEGO,Oliver Audiology & Hearing Aid Services has become the benchmark for best practices in hearing health since it opened in 1996. The practice was founded by Dr. Linda Oliver, who mixes expert hearing healthcare with a compassionate, personal touch. Utilizing the newest technology, including 3D digital ear scanning and real-ear measurement, as well as the latest research and methods, Dr. Oliver is always on the leading edge of best practices.
Still, what truly sets her apart is her genuine compassion for everyone who enters her office. Dr. Oliver listens to her patients’ needs and creates comprehensive approaches that target entire hearing healthcare. She understands there are moments in life you don’t want to miss, and you should hear your best when the moment matters.
3990 Old Town Avenue, Suite C-207 San Diego, California 92110 | 619-297-3131 | oliveraud.com
The Face of Spas
Matt Stewart | Pure Infrared Sauna Studio
SWEAT. SOAK. SALT. LIGHT. RECOVER. This is Pure Infrared Sauna Studio, San Diego’s first fully immersive wellness recovery studio and spa.
Pure is owned by Matt Stewart, a certified health coach and athlete who spent 30 years working in the hospitality industry, specifically luxury resorts and spas. He’s also dealt with years of injuries, surgeries, ailments, and prescribed solutions that sent him on a quest to find the fountain of youth and a path to holistic body and wellness recovery.
With services including infrared saunas, cold plunges, salt and red-light therapy, compression, and PEMF therapy, Pure Infrared Sauna Studio offers clients a path to a pain-free, productive, and enjoyable life. Guests will find numerous biohacking options that support detox and weight loss and will leave feeling more youthful and energized.
ROY’S RESTAURANTS ARE KNOWN FOR OFFERING A UNIQUE DINING EXPERIENCE infusing “Hawaii-Inspired Euro-Asian Cuisine” with their signature Aloha Service. Chef Blaine Villasin hails from Hawaii, and his cuisine is influenced by the many different cultures found there. “Here in San Diego, we have access to the freshest seafood and exceptional local produce. I enjoy experimenting in the kitchen whether it’s creating a new sushi roll, entrée, or dessert,” he notes. “Our food is unique. It’s a reflection of the many different cultures in Hawaii. We combine bold Asian flavors, classic European techniques, and the freshest local ingredients—when a guest asks for a recipe, that makes my night!”
333 Harbor Drive San Diego, California 92101 | 619-239-7697 | roysrestaurant.com
The Face of Fertility
San Diego Fertility | Michael Kettel, MD; Sandy Chuan, MD; Susanna Park, MD; Brooke Friedman, MD; Said Daneshmand, MD
FOR OVER THREE DECADES, the highly skilled team of physicians at San Diego Fertility Center have played a pivotal role in achieving remarkable outcomes for patients not only in San Diego, but globally. The center’s fertility experts are widely recognized for their expertise and consistently prioritize personalized fertility treatment plans, including services such as IVF, PGT testing, egg donation, surrogacy, and fertility preservation (egg freezing).
“What sets us apart is that we lead with both innovation and compassion,” says Dr. Brooke Friedman.
“Our comprehensive approach begins well before the initial physician consultation, with a dedicated team providing steadfast support to navigate each patient through the entire process.”
Dr. Friedman recalls one former patient who stated, “I’ve often heard that it takes a village to raise a child. Now, I can attest that it takes a village to conceive one!”
For Dr. Friedman and the entire team, being part of an individual’s journey during one of life’s most fulfilling experiences is a privilege. “We collaborate closely with our patients to help them realize their dreams of parenthood. Because of this, I genuinely believe I have the most rewarding job in the world!”
11425 El Camino Real San Diego, California 92130
591 Camino De La Reina, Suite 1250 San Diego, California 92108
44274 George Cushman Court, Suite 201 Temecula, California 92592
San Diego Humane Society | Gary Weitzman, DVM, MPH, CAWA
AS A NATIONAL LEADER IN ANIMAL WELFARE, Gary Weitzman has served as the president and CEO of the San Diego Humane Society (SDHS) since 2012. He has also served as chair of the board of the Association for Animal Welfare Advancement and is currently a board member for California Animal Welfare Association, Shelter Animals Count, and Project Chimps.
Under Dr. Weitzman’s leadership at SDHS, San Diego has become the largest city in the U.S. to keep healthy, treatable shelter animals from being euthanized. Thanks to his vision, the organization’s scope goes beyond adopting animals; it offers programs that strengthen the human- animal bond, prevent cruelty and neglect, provide medical care, and serve as a safety net for pet families to stay together. A U.S. Air Force veteran, Dr. Weitzman is also the author of nine books published by National Geographic, all intended to help pet owners become the best they can be!
Campuses in El Cajon, Escondido, Oceanside, Ramona, and San Diego | 619-299-7012 | sdhumane.org
The Face of Divorce Law
Christopher J. Sunnen, Esq., CFLS, and Adrian S. Doty, Esq. | Sunnen Law
SOME OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES PEOPLE CAN EXPERIENCE IN LIFE ARE A DIVORCE, child custody issues, restraining order, or a combination of these events. At those times, Sunnen Law will be there with hands-on support and solutions for any problems that arise. The firm is headed by founder Christopher J. Sunnen, who is certified by the state bar as a Certified Family Law Specialist.
Over a 20-year career, Mr. Sunnen has advocated for countless clients in high conflict courtroom situations throughout the county of San Diego and beyond. In every case, Mr. Sunnen utilizes his trial experience to provide advice and settle cases, when possible, to obtain the best results for clients. His zealous approach is also present with his senior associate, Adrian Doty, who focuses on mediating matters but litigates all family law matters when needed.
No matter what type of family law issue is at play, the firm is always ready to assist and is prepared to make a difference for its clients.
2550 Fifth Avenue, Suite 515 San Diego, California, 92103 | 619-255-9551 | sunnen-law.com
The Face of Personal Injury Law
Thorsnes Bartolotta McGuire LLP
FOUNDED IN 1978, THORSNES BARTOLOTTA MCGUIRE LLPspecializes in personal injury, wrongful death, elder abuse/ nursing home neglect, medical malpractice, and other areas of plaintiff litigation. As a founding partner, Vincent J. Bartolotta Jr. specializes in plaintiff’s litigation with an emphasis in business disputes, condemnation, and major injury cases. A tenacious trial lawyer, he has also been recognized by CAL-ABOTA as the number one trial lawyer in the state of California, named annually for over three decades by Woodward/White as one of the Best Lawyers in America, and is in the top 1% of trial lawyers in the United States. “There’s really no secret about what I do,” he says. “I really do care for my clients; each case gets the same kind of attention my family would get.”
2550 5th Avenue, 11th Floor San Diego, California 92103 | 619-236-9363 | 800-577-2922 | tbmlawyers.com
The Face of Fine Jewelry
Unicorn Jewelry & Watch Boutique | Fred Nasseri and Minoo Anvari
SINCE 1981, UNICORN JEWELRY IN RANCHO BERNARDO HAS BEEN THE LARGEST FAMILY- OWNED JEWELRY STORE IN SAN DIEGO. Recognizing that jewelry marks some of the most important moments in our lives, the family has been fortunate to help San Diegans celebrate life’s milestones with the perfect gifts, spectacular engagement rings and wedding bands, the widest selection of certified loose stones, and truly one-of-a-kind creations that make clients’ dreams a reality.
“We are so proud to represent our community, and it brings us great joy to see the special memories we help our clients create that can be cherished by everyone. For many generations, it has been our clients and their stories that we will remember most when it comes to helping them find the perfect jewelry for every occasion,” says Fred Nasseri, one of the owners of Unicorn Jewelry.
Generations of families have visited Fred, co-owner Minoo, and their team of on-site craftsmen, trusting Unicorn Jewelry for all their fine jewelry and watch needs.
16781 Bernardo Center Drive, San Diego, California 92128 | 858-487-6454 | unicornjewelry.com
The Face of Gaming
Valley View Casino & Hotel
VALLEY VIEW CASINO & HOTEL IS SAN DIEGO’S FAVORITE FOR A REASON, offering the thrill of your favorite slots and table games, beautifully appointed hotel rooms, eight outstanding restaurants, six bars and lounges, and unparalleled guest service.
“Our commitment to personalized guest service is second to none,” says Todd Jackson, Vice President of Gaming Operations and Information Technology. “Guests appreciate the comfortability of our casino floor and the hundreds of brand new games that have been added in the last few years.”
The casino underwent two expansions in 2023 and boasts over 2,000 of the newest slot machines and table games, as well as San Diego’s most rewarding Players Club.
“Our variety of table games include all of the most popular games,” adds David Spence, Director of Gaming Operations. “Our recently expanded casino floor also offers our guests more options than ever in a sophisticated, spacious environment.”
With welcoming and exceptional hospitality, Valley View Casino & Hotel is hands down Southern California’s premier gaming destination.
Stake Chophouse & Bar isn’t your average steakhouse. Blue Bridge Hospitality’s Coronado outpost is a modern interpretation of a big-city steakhouse nestled in the heart of the small coastal community. The team at Stake has reimagined the whole steakhouse experience. By prioritizing a seasonal farm-to-table sourcing philosophy, a personalized guest experience, and unique service touches, like a formal steak presentation and a bespoke knife selection process, Stake distinguishes itself in a sea of steakhouses.
Exceptional steaks, including Wagyu from Japan, Australia, and the U.S., and fresh seafood flown in daily form the core of Stake’s culinary identity. The menu features a five-course omakase-style steak experience highlighting house favorites, plus an array of cuts, and classic steakhouse staples—think a wedge salad, baked potato, or pasta carbonara—refined for a contemporary palate without losing their traditional appeal. Stake focuses on seasonal sourcing from the region’s best family farms and specialty purveyors, and incorporates intentionally unexpected touches to create something truly unique.
“I challenge our chefs and myself to take it a step further in sourcing,” says Chef Ronnie Schwandt. “It’s important to us to highlight different farms, unique one-off farms—whether it’s cattle, strawberries, a local fisherman or from anywhere in the United States, we’re always trying to find that niche.”
Beyond the menu, Stake emphasizes outstanding service, says Vinny Spatafore, Director of Hospitality Operations. Staff maintains detailed notes, allowing them to remember guests by name, recall previous orders such as a favorite martini (also memorable for the customer since it’s served in an extra tall, distinctly-shaped glass), and celebrate special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries.
“When you have those points of topic that you remember about a guest, they appreciate that,” he says. “Our servers are really good with that—we have a couple servers who have been here since the beginning and they’ll remember somebody from years ago, their name, their kids’ names, where they live. I’m really thankful to have a great front of house staff.”
Award-winning wines, rare whiskeys, special events, and a complementary black car service that provides transportation for guests throughout Coronado add to Stake’s appeal.
Schwandt stresses that Stake offers more than a meal; they aim to give patrons something unforgettable.
“It starts when you walk up the stairs and are greeted by the hostess—that sets the tone for the night. Then you’re greeted by a server, who may know you by name, and can guide you through the menu and curate as they get to know you,” says Schwandt. “Most people leave kind of blown away; they leave feeling like they just had an experience. That’s the goal, right? Whether you’re serving smash burgers or high-end steak, you want somebody to leave thinking, Wow, that was awesome.”
While glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agents have been used to treat Type 2 diabetes for more than 20 years, their recent emergence as weight-loss wonder drugs marked a new frontier in medicine. But their effectiveness has left some patients wondering what to do once they’ve reached their goal. Stopping the medication could mean regaining some, if not all, of the weight. A Scripps Clinic internal medicine physician recently conducted a small study of whether GLP-1 patients who had reached their goal weight could maintain that weight by taking their regularly prescribed injection every other week instead of weekly. Spoiler alert: 30 of 34 patients did. Read more about the study here and what that may mean as pharmaceutical companies roll out oral GLP-1s.
For more nutrition, wellness, and healthy living tips, sign up for the San Diego Health newsletter here.
The iconic 1,200-acre preserve’s history dates back more than 150 years, evolving from a scrub-filled plot atop a mesa overlooking what’s now Downtown to an urban oasis—the largest of its kind in the country—filled with an array of museums, attractions, gardens, trails, restaurants, and more. Balboa Park is an epic playground where San Diegans and visitors alike can experience the great outdoors just as easily as they can enjoy a world-class performance or explore groundbreaking discoveries.
Tucked away in the Spanish Colonial Revival-style architecture are 18 diverse museums that allow visitors to spend the day learning about, well, anything. A great place to start is the San Diego History Center. Located in the Casa del Balboa building, the museum tells the story of the city’s past, present, and future through photographs and art, clothing and textiles, and interviews with people who witnessed history-making events firsthand. The San Diego Natural History Museum takes visitors even farther back with interactive exhibitions that show what the region was like up to 75 million years ago.
Blast off on a simulated trip to space at the San Diego Air & Space Museum, then check out artifacts from aviation legends, including the Wright brothers, Amelia Earhart, and Buzz Aldrin. Discover new perspectives revolutionizing the science world, learn about an often overlooked but overutilized utility, and exercise your creativity at the Fleet Science Center.
Calling all theater-lovers, Balboa Park has something for you, too. The San Diego Junior Theatre will present their musical take on beloved children’s book A Bad Case of the Stripes from June 26 through July 12. And laugh, cry, and marvel in awe as the pros of The Old Globe perform Kim’s Convenience, the award-winning comedy that inspired the popular series, from May 15 to June 14.
There’s nowhere else in Balboa Park quite like WorldBeat Cultural Center. The institution celebrates African diaspora and indigenous cultures around the world using art, music, dance, and education. The building, a renovated water tower covered in colorful murals, houses a performing arts center, museum, gift shop, cafe, and outdoor classroom.
If you’d like a side of nature with your culture, Balboa Park has you covered there, too. Stroll through the gardens of the Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum, a monument to the relationship between San Diego and its sister city, Yokohama, Japan. Inspired by traditional Japanese design dating back centuries, the 10-acre respite features a living exhibition that showcases plants native to both cities.
If there seems like a lot going on in Balboa Park, it’s because there is. Let theBalboa Park Cultural Partnership be your guide. The organization is the umbrella for 24 of the park’s institutions and offers an Explorer Pass that allows visitors to access multiple museums for one affordable price. The hardest part is picking where to start.
16 Museums, One Pass
Save on admission to San Diego’s top museums with the Balboa Park Explorer Pass. Explore 16 museums of art, science, history and culture across Balboa Park — all with one affordable pass. Choose the option that fits your pace: the Limited Pass (one day for up to four museums), the Parkwide Pass (seven consecutive days of access to all 16 museums) or the Annual Pass (365 days of unlimited exploring).
Looking for an experience-driven gift? Let the museum lover in your life enjoy their favorite museums all year with a Balboa Park Explorer Annual Pass gift voucher.
Bigger experiments, brighter ideas, and boundless curiosity await at the newly reimagined Fleet Science Center. This summer, the Fleet debuts Element 8 Cafe, an expanded theater queuing and concessions space, two new gallery spaces, and, for the first time, a free entrance gallery exploring science in and around San Diego. The transformation marks a new chapter for the Fleet, keeping it a vital, innovative, and accessible science hub for the region. Visitors are invited to explore the experience this summer and connect with the power of science like never before.
Address: 1875 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101 Website:FleetScience.org Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily Phone: 619-238-1233
Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum
An accredited cultural gem, the Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum brings traditional Japanese garden design to life with koi ponds, curving walkways and layers of greenery. Guests explore bonsai trees, streams and peaceful nooks while taking part in exhibits, educational programs and festivals that illuminate Japanese culture. Situated in the heart of Balboa Park, the garden doubles as a meditative retreat and a dynamic gathering place, welcoming visitors to slow their pace and connect more deeply.
Address: 2215 Pan American Road E, San Diego, CA 92101 Website:Niwa.org Hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily; last admission at 6 p.m. Phone: 619-232-2721
The Old Globe
A San Diego summer favorite, The Old Globe invites audiences to experience a beloved local tradition in its outdoor Lowell Davies Festival Theatre.
This summer, the 2026 Shakespeare Festival presents two thrilling tales of power, passion and romance. Measure for Measure, running June 14 through July 12, 2026, is a riveting story of justice and hypocrisy that asks who holds power, who is punished and what it truly means to be virtuous. Much Ado About Nothing, playing Aug. 2–30, 2026, is a classic rom-com packed with schemes, sparks and laughter as opposites attract. Audiences can enjoy both shows for $44.
Address: 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego, CA 92101 Website:TheOldGlobe.org Hours: Box office open Tuesday–Sunday, 1 p.m. to final curtain Phone: Box office, 619-234-5623
San Diego Air & Space Museum
Aviation and space exploration come to life at the San Diego Air & Space Museum. See an airworthy replica of the Spirit of St. Louis, a Gee Bee racer and historic aircraft from World War I, World War II and the Korean and Vietnam eras. Get up close to the Apollo 9 command module — one of only 11 of its kind in the world — along with Mercury and Gemini capsules, Mission Control and space shuttle simulators, and a selfie spot beside a lunar lander on the moon. Running through 2026, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! brings oddities from around the world to Balboa Park.
Address: 2001 Pan American Plaza, San Diego, CA 92101 Website:SanDiegoAirAndSpace.org Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone: 619-234-8291
San Diego History Center
History belongs to everyone. At the San Diego History Center, two experiences bring that history to life this summer: America at 250 and the Center for Women’s History. America at 250 traces San Diego’s place in 250 years of U.S. history, while summer programs invite children to learn and explore. The Center for Women’s History amplifies the voices of women whose leadership and creativity have shaped our region.
By understanding our past, we build a more vibrant and inclusive community together. These vital educational experiences are only possible through generous community support. Discover your roots, spark meaningful dialogue, and help keep San Diego’s stories alive for future generations.
Address: 1649 El Prado, Suite 3, San Diego, CA 92101 Website: SanDiegoHistory.org Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday–Sunday Phone: 619-232-6203
San Diego Junior Theatre
Junior Theatre is San Diego’s longest-running youth theatre program, empowering students ages 4 to 18 to explore storytelling, performance, and collaboration in a supportive environment. Through classes, camps, and productions, young artists build confidence, creativity, and lifelong skills onstage and off. Each season features a wide range of opportunities, from introductory experiences to advanced training in acting and musical theatre.
Looking for a summer adventure? Junior Theatre’s Summer Camps deliver dynamic programs for grades K–12, including musical theater intensives, acting academies and immersive JT Studio experiences. It’s a place where imagination truly takes center stage.
Address: 1650 El Prado, Suite 208, San Diego, CA 92101 Website:JuniorTheatre.com Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone: 619-239-1311
San Diego Natural History Museum (The Nat)
This summer, The Nat is talking trash—literally. Their newest exhibition, Washed Ashore: Art to Save the Sea, features larger‑than‑life marine sculptures made of ocean debris collected from beaches. It invites visitors to explore the impact of plastic pollution and discover ways to take action.
But the experience doesn’t stop at the gallery doors. Friday nights, the exhibition transforms into an ocean-themed “dive bar” during Nat at Night. Select Sundays bring something brand new: a rooftop brunch with sweeping Balboa Park views. Add two new giant-screen films and five floors of nature to explore, and The Nat is shaping up to be one of the season’s must-visit destinations.
Address: 1788 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101 Website: SDNat.org Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays in summer Phone: 619-232-3821
WorldBeat Cultural Center
The WorldBeat Cultural Center is a nonprofit multidisciplinary cultural organization dedicated to promoting, presenting and preserving Indigenous cultures worldwide through music, art, dance, education, sustainability and community programs. WorldBeat elevates multicultural artists, expands opportunities for cultural enrichment and fosters deeper understanding across traditions. WorldBeat offers a holistic cultural experience that inspires pride, unity, connection and belonging for all ages.
Address: 2100 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 92101 Website:WorldBeatCenter.org Hours: Classes: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, 6–9 p.m. Exhibits and café: Friday–Sunday, 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Phone: 619-230-1190
Event Calendar
Throughout 2026: Ripley’s Believe It Or Not!
Step into a world of the weird and wonderful at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! at the San Diego Air & Space Museum in Balboa Park. Explore hundreds of bizarre artifacts, interactive displays and unbelievable stories that celebrate the curious and the extraordinary.
Presented in partnership with the San Diego Museum of African American Fine Arts, San Diego’s Lost Neighborhoods uses augmented reality, oral histories, and archival materials to explore communities and residents displaced by redlining, freeway construction, and other discriminatory policies.
Spend a summer night at The Old Globe. The Lowell Davies Festival Theatre stages Measure for Measure (June 14–July 12) and Much Ado About Nothing (Aug. 2–30), offering two unforgettable Shakespeare productions for just $44.
The Old Globe | 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego, CA 92101
June 8–Aug. 7: Theatre Summer Camps
Summer camps at Junior Theatre spark creativity for grades K–12 with hands-on training, musical theatre intensives, acting academies, and JT Studio experiences.
A museum visit turns into a Sunday Funday with the addition of rooftop brunch, featuring mimosas, bloody Marys, and brunch bites from Wolfish by Wolf in the Woods (June 14, August 9) and Hash House a Go Go (July 12).
Nagashi at the Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum by floating a lantern to honor loved ones who have passed. Stroll merchant booths, enjoy cultural performances in the Inamori Pavilion, and sample food vendors plus a beer and sake garden in the lower garden.
Explore arts, science, history, and culture in the Balboa Park Cultural District with one convenient, affordable Pass. The Balboa Park Explorer Pass is your ticket to up to 16 museums and endless fun! Purchase your pass at BuyMyExplorer.com.
La Gran Terraza, the University of San Diego’s signature restaurant, has been a campus favorite for over 16 years, offering California cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. This summer, its gastropub, O’Toole’s, is open for evening service —perfect for sunset bites and drinks.
At the helm is chef Marbi Becerra, a Culinary Institute of America alum with roots in the US and Mexico. She now leads culinary operations for La Gran Terraza and USD Catering, bringing bold Mediterranean flavors and a fresh perspective.
Try This!
Seared Scallops: With charred broccolini oyster mushrooms corn puree herb cherry tomatoes and chimichurri
Labora Café offers so much more than premium ceremonial-grade matcha; it’s a lifestyle café where people come to feel more energized, inspired, and connected to their community. Labora partners with retailers and lifestyle brands, from local Pilates instructors to Neiman Marcus, so there’s always something new to learn about or browse when you’re here. As for the drinks, whether you’re thinking matcha or Vietnamese coffee with a specialty house-made foam on top, expect a natural pick-me-up, without extra sugars or syrups.
Try This!
Pistachio 54: Pistachio foam layered with a slow drip Viet coffee or Matcha
Labora Café
8055 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, Suite 101, San Diego, California 92111 858-471-6970 | laboracafe.com | @laborasd
Happy Medium lives in the sweet spot: not too fancy, not too gritty. Think dive bar soul with cocktail bar standards. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a beer and a shot, a fancy cocktail, plus a killer spirits list. The menu includes all the best bar classics along with elevated plates. Some would call it a “happy medium.” With your favorite B-side tracks always playing in the background, Happy Medium is the ultimate neighborhood hangout spot.
Try This!
Lava Flowgroni: Pineapple gin layered with strawberry Campari, banana vermouth and coconut, served over crushed party ice.
Happy Medium
4002 30th Street, San Diego, California 92104 619-310-5642 | happymediumsd.com
