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Partner Content SEPTEMBER 22, 2023

Best BJJ Gi Brands: Our Top 6 Jiu Jitsu Gis Ranked

If you're training Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), you'll need a uniform called a gi. But with so many Jiu Jitsu gi brands out there how do you find the best BJJ gi for your size, style, and training type?

Best BJJ Gi Brands: Our Top 6 Jiu Jitsu Gis Ranked
Best BJJ Gi Brands- Our Top 6 Jiu Jitsu Gis Ranked

If you’re training Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), you’ll need a uniform called a gi. But with so many Jiu Jitsu gi brands out there how do you find the best BJJ gi for your size, style, and training type?

In this article we’re going to cover the Best BJJ gi brands on the market today.

Best BJJ Gi Brand: Gold BJJ

San Diego based Gold BJJ is our pick for the best BJJ gi brand. Established in 2016, and located in the Bay Park area of San Diego, Gold BJJ is a Jiu Jitsu brand owned and operated by BJJ athletes.

Their line of gis is popular with both casual Jiu Jitsu enthusiasts, as well as elite competitors. If you check out the podium of any major tournament, you’re bound to see Gold BJJ gis.

Here are a few Gold BJJ gis you might want to consider…

Best Overall BJJ Gi: The Foundation Gi

Gold BJJ’s Foundation Gi is the flagship uniform in their lineup. It features a medium weight 450gsm Pearl Weave jacket backed with an interior rash guard liner.

Diving deeper into its design, the 10oz Ripstop pants strike a perfect harmony between durability and flexibility, which is critical for fluid movement on the mats.

Competitors will appreciate this gi’s compliance with IBJJF standards. The medium weight gi material becomes a strategic advantage in this regard: it’s not so heavy to make weight cuts a hassle, yet it’s substantial enough to give an edge in grip battles.

The Foundation Gi is an excellent “jack of all trades” gi. It caters to the rigorous demands of a competitive environment while being comfy enough for everyday training. If you’re looking to invest in a reliable, versatile gi, you can’t go wrong with this one! Check out the Foundation Gi here.

Best Lightweight BJJ Gi: The Aeroweave Gi

If you’re in the market for a lightweight BJJ gi, the Aeroweave is what you’re looking for. First off, it’s super light – about 40% lighter than the usual pearl weave gi you might be used to. On those hot days in the academy, this is a game-changer.

The 275 GSM jacket combined with the 10oz Ripstop Pants means you won’t be sweating buckets within the first 10 minutes of rolling. Now, if you’re worried about it tearing apart because of its lightweight, don’t. This gi’s been reinforced in all the right places, like the high-stress points, and even comes with a solid EVA Bolstered Collar.

On the design side, it’s sleek and minimal. The G Shield Logo and the ‘For The Journey’ tag on the inner lapel give it a clean look without screaming for attention. Plus, there’s enough room if you want to throw on a few patches.

So if you prefer a gi that is lightweight and durable, the Aeroweave Gi should be your next pickup! Check out the Aeroweave Gi here.

Best Competition BJJ Gi: The Valiant Gi

If you’re ever thinking about getting into competition or just want an extra sturdy heavyweight gi, the Valiant is a strong contender.

So, starting with the build: it’s got a 550gsm Pearl Weave jacket and 12oz ripstop pants. Sounds heavy, right? Well, it is, but in a good way. Especially if you’re someone who hates opponents gripping your gi. The weight actually helps in making those grips easier to break.

Here’s a cool touch: the neck liner has a rash guard that features Teddy Roosevelt’s “Man in the Arena” speech. Pretty inspiring stuff when you’re about to hit the mats. And as for the look? It’s neat. You’ve got the option of white-on-white or black-on-black, both giving it a clean, no-nonsense aesthetic.

Now, if you’re thinking of competing, the Valiant Gi is IBJJF compliant, which is obviously super important. But even if competing isn’t your thing, it’s a solid pick for everyday training, especially when it gets chilly.

To wrap it up, whether you’re gearing up for competition or just wanting a sturdy gi for those colder sessions, the Valiant Gi should be on your radar. Check out the Valiant gi here.

Overall, Gold BJJ makes some of the best BJJ gis around. According to a Jiu Jitsu expert known as The MMA Guru, pricing on Gold BJJ gis is very competitive. They aren’t the cheapest gis on the market, but for the quality level they deliver they are priced reasonably when compared to other top BJJ gi brands.

Best BJJ Gi Brands: Runner Ups

While Gold BJJ is our pick for the best BJJ gi brand, there are several other brands that are worth mentioning – some of which are also based in our hometown of sunny San Diego!

Here are a few other brands that make some of the best BJJ gis you can find.

Fuji

Since 1969, FUJI Sports has been synonymous with unparalleled quality and commitment to the world of martial arts. While Fuji started off as a Judo brand, they’ve expanded their product line into Jiu Jitsu gear and do make some great BJJ gis.

FUJI’s commitment isn’t just about top-tier products; it’s about crafting gear that’s battle-tested. Every product under the FUJI name has been subjected to the most rigorous training sessions and competitive scenarios.

This ensures that when an athlete chooses FUJI, they’re not just selecting a product; they’re becoming part of a legacy that stands resilient on the global martial arts stage.

Origin

There’s something undeniably powerful about a brand that stays true to its roots, and Origin epitomizes this ideal. Proudly bearing the label “Made in America. Without Compromise,” Origin takes its commitment to craftsmanship and authenticity to the next level.

With its establishment in Farmington, Maine, Origin’s journey began in 2009 under the vision of Pete Roberts. But Pete wasn’t just aiming to create another “fight brand”; he envisioned a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu lifestyle brand tailored for the aficionados of the sport.

By 2011, Origin had taken its first steps into the industry, and by 2013, it showcased its dedication in an unprecedented manner. Roberts, with a band of supportive friends and family, embarked on an audacious endeavor, clearing a forest to raise a timber-frame factory. This was not just any factory but a beacon of Pete’s dream to produce the world’s finest Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gear.

While Farmington remains its nerve center, Origin’s influence and range have spread far and wide. Their offerings have expanded from exclusively BJJ gear to encompass a broad spectrum: from streetwear to workwear, from rugged footwear—the first to be manufactured in Franklin County, Maine in three decades—to outerwear. They’ve even delved into the realm of nutritional supplements with their JOCKO FUEL line. And while their products diversify, one thing remains consistent: an unwavering commitment to creating heirloom-quality, durable goods that span from the forests of Maine to North Carolina.

The meticulous attention to detail and passionate drive that stems from 15 years of branding experience makes Origin not just another company vying to be the best BJJ gi brand in the market, but as they proclaim, “America’s next big brand.” In an age of outsourced manufacturing and fleeting trends, Origin stands as a testament to home-grown quality and the enduring spirit of American craftsmanship.

Kingz

Since its inception in 2011, Kingz Kimonos has consistently pushed the envelope to deliver some of the finest Jiu-Jitsu gis in the market.

Another brand that hails from our stomping grounds of San Diego, California, this brand comes with over three decades of hands-on experience on the mat, combining technical know-how with personal passion.

Kingz gis are not just comfortable to wear but are crafted with a resilience that stands up to even the most aggressive grips and pulls. The brand promises not just durability but also affordability, ensuring that quality doesn’t come with an exorbitant price tag.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Kingz Kimonos offers a blend of function, flair, and fiscal sense, making them a worthy contender in the realm of top-tier BJJ gis.

Final Thoughts on Selecting the Best BJJ Gi Brand

Choosing the right Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gi is a vital decision for every practitioner, from the beginner just stepping onto the mat to the seasoned pro preparing for their next competition. The gi isn’t just a piece of clothing; it’s an extension of a martial artist, affecting performance, comfort, and confidence.

While brand reputation can be a reliable indicator, it’s essential to understand what makes a gi exceptional. First and foremost, the material quality is paramount. A BJJ gi must withstand rigorous training sessions, so durability is a must. Look for gis made of strong, yet breathable fabric to ensure longevity without compromising comfort.

Fit is another crucial factor. A well-fitting gi can make a significant difference in your movement and flexibility. Ensure the gi isn’t too loose, which might give your opponent an advantage, but also not too tight, which can restrict your motion. Many brands offer size charts and guidelines, so take the time to measure and pick the right fit.

Design and aesthetics might be subjective, but for many, a gi is a statement of personal style. Whether you prefer minimalist designs, unique patches, or vibrant colors, select a gi that resonates with your personality.

Moreover, consider price and value. While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that a gi is an investment. Sometimes, spending a bit more upfront can save money in the long run if the gi lasts longer and performs better.

Gold BJJ, our pick for the best BJJ gi brand, excels in all of these categories. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight everyday gi, or a battle tested competition gi, they’ve got you covered. Check out their full line of Jiu Jitsu gis here.

 

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Studio S JUNE 15, 2026

A Modern Take on Steak

Stake Chophouse & Bar brings contemporary classics and old-school service to the heart of Coronado

A Modern Take on Steak
Courtesy of Stake Chophouse

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.”

Partner Content
Partner Content JUNE 10, 2026

New Options for GLP-1 Users

Scripps study shows that some patients may be able to taper their dose and maintain results

New Options for GLP-1 Users
Courtesy of Scripps Health

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.

Partner Content
Partner Content JUNE 5, 2026

Beautiful Balboa Park: Nine Ways to See the City’s Crown Jewel in a New Light

San Diego Magazine's 2026 Guide to Balboa Park.

Beautiful Balboa Park: Nine Ways to See the City’s Crown Jewel in a New Light
Magical San Diego’s Balboa Park at twilight in San Diego California USA

Balboa Park is San Diego’s cultural heart.

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 the Balboa 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.

BuyMyExplorer.com | Phone: 619-232-7502, Press 2 for Explorer 

Fleet Science Center

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.

San Diego Air & Space Museum | 2001 Pan American Plaza, San Diego, CA 92101

Throughout 2026: San Diego’s Lost Neighborhoods

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.

San Diego History Center | 1649 El Prado, Suite 3, San Diego, CA 92101

June –Aug: The 2026 Shakespeare Festival

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.

San Diego Junior Theatre | 1650 El Prado, Suite 208, San Diego, CA 92101  

June 14, July 12, Aug 9: Brunch at The Nat


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). 

San Diego Natural History Museum (The Nat)
1788 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101

June 21: Harriet Tubman Freedom Bird Walk

Celebrate Juneteenth weekend with guided birding, storytelling, soul food, native planting and an African peace drum circle.

WorldBeat Cultural Center | 2100 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 92101

Aug 7-8: Toro Nagashi Festival

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.

Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum | 1649 El Prado, Suite 3, San Diego, CA 92101


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.

Partner Content
Partner Content JUNE 4, 2026

Tastemakers 2026: La Gran Terraza

Chefs, restaurateurs, sommeliers, and craft mixers - meet our 2026 Tastemakers, the minds behind the magic.

Tastemakers 2026: La Gran Terraza
SDM Tastemakers 2025 (All)

Marbi Becerra, Chef de Cuisine

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

La Gran Terraza

5998 Alcala Park, San Diego, California 92110
619-849-8205  |  lagranterraza.com  |  @eatatusd

Partner Content
Partner Content JUNE 4, 2026

Tastemakers 2026: Labora Cafe

Chefs, restaurateurs, sommeliers, and craft mixers - meet our 2026 Tastemakers, the minds behind the magic.

Tastemakers 2026: Labora Cafe
SDM: Tastemakers 2026

Lauren Thiemthath & Bao Doan, Owners

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

Partner Content
Partner Content JUNE 4, 2026

Tastemakers 2026: Happy Medium

Chefs, restaurateurs, sommeliers, and craft mixers - meet our 2026 Tastemakers, the minds behind the magic.

Tastemakers 2026: Happy Medium
20260430SD_Mag_Christian_HappyMedium003

Christian Siglin, Bartender & Owner

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

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