Downtown San Diego’s long-quiet corner at 101 Island Ave is finally getting some life, with Pear Plum planning to move in as an all-day cafe that shifts into a wine bar by night. Slated to open in January 2027, the project from St. Elmo and Christina Crawford is aiming squarely at families, waterfront walkers and downtown residents who would happily trade a dark vacant storefront for a latte and a glass of Barolo.
The address has reportedly sat empty for about three years, which makes the arrival of a cafe-and-wine concept a notable upgrade for the stretch near the park and trolley line.
According to WhatNow, Pear Plum is being built as a true all-day operation, pairing a specialty coffee program with an ambitious wine list. The wine selection is expected to pull from Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne, Rioja and Barolo, with rare vintages in the mix and two house cuvées, Cuvée Gia and Cuvée Aliesa, produced in partnership with Violin Wines in Oregon. The outlet reports the Crawfords are targeting a January 2027 opening.
Menu and coffee program
The menu is in the hands of Lesa and Violette, founders of The Handmade Chef Meal Prep Co. Their about page cites nearly four decades of combined experience in San Diego kitchens, which hints at a food approach that is both approachable and farm-driven. The coffee program is being framed as something that can satisfy seasoned espresso nerds without scaring off casual drinkers who just want a solid cup.
Business filings and timeline
On the paperwork side, records show Pear Plum, LLC filed a federal trademark application for the PEAR PLUM mark on Nov. 10, 2025, a formal step toward locking in the brand, according to Trademark Elite. The filing covers coffee-shop and cafe services along with wine-bar operations, which lines up neatly with the Crawfords' all-day vision.
Neighborhood fit
WhatNow notes that 101 Island Ave sits an easy walk from the New Children's Museum, the San Diego Children's Park, the waterfront, the trolley line, Petco Park and the Convention Center. The owners say that cluster of parks and family attractions helped shape the concept as a casual, family-friendly daytime cafe that turns into a wine-focused evening spot once the sun starts to dip.
For now, Pear Plum is still aiming at a January 2027 debut. Between now and then, expect the usual pre-opening breadcrumbs: building permits, hiring news and, eventually, a firm date for the grand opening.
