Chef Jiwoo Choi’s Choi's blends Korean technique with San Diego ingredients in shareable plates and a $1 oyster happy hour steps from Petco Park.

For three straight years, Pizza Port Ocean Beach sailed through its annual health inspections with A grades. Then on April 21, county inspectors found vermin — and not just the presence of it, but the structural failures letting it in. One of San Diego's most decorated craft beer institutions is now closed, in a county where 300+ restaurants have already fallen to the same violation since California banned its most effective rodent control tool fourteen months ago.

Franchisee Jason Kasid plans a Rise Southern Biscuits outpost at 2650 Jamacha Road in El Cajon, marking the chain’s second San Diego‑area location with a 2026 target. Kasid holds a multi‑unit deal to build at least five locations locally.

An Art Deco steakhouse is coming to Lantern Crest in Santee this summer, promising prime-aged steaks, sixth-floor sunset views and valet service.

Mission Bagel opened a Pacific Beach storefront at 1344 Garnet Ave and quickly earned national attention, tying for Rising Star at BagelFest West.

Verise, from Michelin-trained chef Riccardo Bilotta, has opened at Hotel Solea in Carlsbad with house-made pastas, wood-fired pizzas and an olive-grove dining room.

The MICHELIN Guide will stage its 2026 California awards in San Diego on June 24 at a bayfront venue, an invitation-only event that spotlights local restaurants. The move highlights a growing roster of Michelin‑recognized spots in the county.

Corbin O’Reilly has rebranded his Corbin’s Q storefront in Rolando Village as Barlando, shifting to a bar-focused concept while keeping Corbin’s Q as a catering arm.

Beloved Barrio Logan taqueria Las Cuatro Milpas will reopen inside Mercado del Barrio with the same family recipes and team in a smaller, updated space.

Grandson Steaks quietly opened in Liberty Station, offering USDA Brandt Beef at accessible price points and patio seating for about 130 guests.

A restored theater and former bowling alley will house Miramar Food Hall, a 12,600‑plus‑sq‑ft gathering spot with 15 eateries, two bars and an ocean‑view patio.

A viral TikTok accused Robertos CEO of backing MAGA, prompting boycott calls and a Nevada Instagram response that stressed franchise independence. The chain says its Latino-owned and operates in multiple states.

Lucca is opening a second San Diego location at 905 J Street in East Village this summer, promising house-baked focaccia and imported meats near Petco Park.