a matcha latte with art
01 Jan 2026

What’s New in San Diego: Exciting 2026 Openings on the Horizon

By The Dana

A new year is the perfect excuse to explore something new, and in San Diego, there’s always something fresh and exciting just around the corner. From aesthetic coffee shops and modern fitness studios to bold new restaurants and even a next-level mini golf experience, America's Finest City continues to evolve in the best ways. We love discovering these new openings and sharing our favorite finds with guests here at The Dana on Mission Bay.

Here are some of the most delicious, interesting, and unique new spots to check out in San Diego — plus why they’re worth adding to your itinerary during your stay.

Coming Soon to San Diego:

CherryFish (3.6 Miles from Hotel) 

Chery Fish Sushi

Photo: @danimes_delights

Just a few minutes from the Dana on Mission Bay, CherryFish is for sushi lovers who are looking for a dining adventure.  This newcomer to the San Diego restaurant scene brings a fresh new look at sushi with a menu that blends Japanese culinary flavors with a bold energy restaurant that offers a relaxing and immersive dining experience.  Come for the unique sushi rolls like the Stuffed Shrooms Roll and stay for the Chicken Katsu Flatbread. Reviews are also recommending the creative combos for those who want to try sushi but aren’t quite sure where to begin! Grab a Sake Grenade or Satsuma Mandarin handcrafted cocktail for a refreshing beverage and plan your next visit ASAP.

Carlo (5.2 Miles from Hotel) 

a red cocktail on a barrel in a low lit room

This Mission Hills speakeasy invites you into a myth that is secretly tucked away from sight behind Cardellino. The moody 32-seat speakeasy offers an opulent cocktail lounge with a little bit of ancient drama for fun. All decked out in gold accents with moody lighting and a mesmerizing ceiling of sculptural florals, this new San Diego business is a seduction and an alluring experience that’s a split between “The Fates” and “The Legends,” with creative signature cocktails along with the elevated favorite classics. The Carlo experience has been described as theatrical and sensual, making it something you won’t soon forget and will definitely want to experience again.

Sugarfish (5.8 Miles from Hotel)

sushi
Photo: @smilesandsushi

San Diego’s sushi scene is about to get even more delicious with the arrival of Sugarfish by Sushi Nozawa — the acclaimed Los Angeles–based sushi restaurant known for its fresh, high-quality seafood and approachable omakase experience. Slated to open in spring 2026 in the vibrant Little Italy neighborhood at 2100 Kettner Boulevard, this will be Sugarfish’s first San Diego location outside of its existing restaurants in LA, Orange County, and New York City.

Dora (10.6 Miles from Hotel) 

A pizza margherita with drinks

Inspired by family, this new restaurant in La Jolla offers coastal Italian cuisine including grilled octopus, handmade gnocchi stuffed with pork sausage and the best ever margherita pizza! You’ll also enjoy the chilled wines and delicious dishes to share all with the perfect Italian flair you’re craving! From a favorite family place to gather to a great place for a romantic date, Dora is the talk of the town and a must-try in San Diego.

Puttshack (6.5 Miles from Hotel) 

Puttshack

Photo: @breastcancer_chingona

Mission Valley is stepping up to the tee with the new Puttshack coming to the area in 2026. Enjoy some golf competitions, world-class dining, and plenty of high-energy fun vibes. Puttshack promises to be one of the new popular hangouts in San Diego, and locals are excited for the business to open! Compete, kick back, or just come to eat at this exciting new San Diego location.

YogaSix Chula Vista (16 Miles from Hotel) 

a rolled up yogamat

If you’re ready for a full sensory yoga experience in San Diego that is truly accessible to all, check out the new YogaSix in Chula Vista. Their classes are created to help you focus on producing specific benefits including agility, strength, balance, flexibility, and balance. YogaSix classes are popular with a variety of ages and activity levels, and they have several locations in the San Diego area, including the new studio in Chula Vista.

Crack Shack Pacific Beach (20 Miles from Hotel) 

chicken sandwich and fries

If fried chicken is your thing, you won’t want to miss out on a visit to the San Diego Crack Shack in Pacific Beach. This Coop is the newest location for this popular local restaurant and fans are super excited! The new Crack Shack location in San Diego offers a family-friendly restaurant that even has a fun sandpit for the kids. It also offers 28 taps of the best San Diego craft beers, and it’s close to the beach, spouts an open air dining room, and gives off a true SoCal vibe folks love to enjoy.

San Diego’s Newest Openings:

In addition to these amazing new businesses in San Diego for 2026, we’d like to spotlight some of San Diego’s newest openings near The Dana that locals are raving about and guests may want to try during their stay at our Mission Bay hotel.

12 HRS Matcha (3.3 Miles from Hotel) 

a matcha latte with art

Located in Pacific Beach, this new drink and dessert shop offers delicious matcha along with freshly crafted delights. You can tell they are delicious because there is always a line at their Garnet Ave location in San Diego. Serving up Premium Ceremonial Grade Matcha with a peaceful attitude of love and gratitude, we are feeling positive vibes from this new San Diego business.

The Barista Botanist (3.7 Miles from Hotel) 

Cup of coffee on table

Photo: @blushtan_sandiego

This new locally owned shop is an all-day organic café that serves a great variety of healthy favorites including everything from coffee and smoothies to bowls and sourdough pizzas! It’s all prepared with organic, seed oil-free, whole ingredients and that's why the Barista Botanist has become a favorite of locals looking for healthier resolutions in the new year.

Black Rock Coffee (3.9 Miles from Hotel) 

two iced coffees

This new coffee shop in Pacific Beach is making waves with its variety of beverages that range from seasonal favorites to Matcha and Fuel Energy options. The company was founded to connect with the community and build a connection over a great cup of coffee, which is definitely happening at the new San Diego location on a daily basis, because they are packed!

Are You Ready to Try Something New in San Diego? The Dana on Mission Bay is a Great Place to Start

Firefly Outdoor shot

As a guest of The Dana on Mission Bay, you will be close to all the new and exciting openings in San Diego in 2026! From delicious restaurants to yoga and mini-golf, it’s going to be so much fun. Book your stay at The Dana today and plan an amazing stay at our Mission Beach hotel so you can be one of the first to experience some of these incredible new businesses in the San Diego area.

Beer being poured into a glass
12 Sep 2025

Best Breweries in San Diego to Sip Craft Beer This Fall

By The Dana

San Diego is known as the Craft Beer Capital of America, and there is no better place to sip and savor this fall than right here near Mission Bay. Here at The Dana on Mission Bay, our hotel puts you close to some of the best waterfront breweries, local beer bars, and seasonal favorites. Whether you want to try a hazy IPA, crisp lager, or experimental sour, you will find plenty of flavor just minutes from your guestroom — perfect for a cozy autumn beer adventure by the water. Check out our guide to the best breweries and places to sip beer this season in San Diego!

Firefly Eatery & Bar (Onsite at Hotel)

Just steps from your guestroom, Firefly Eatery & Bar offers more than stunning waterfront views and coastal cuisine. Beer lovers will find a large selection of rotating local craft beers that showcase the best of San Diego’s brewing scene. Enjoy refreshing pints like Buenaveza, a crisp Mexican-style lager; Stone Brewing's Salt & Lime Lager 4.7, or Pure Project's Diamond Dust, perfect for a sunny afternoon. Pair your favorite brew with seasonal small plates or shareable bites, all while taking in panoramic views of Mission Bay. Make sure to book our new fall hotel package, Two on Tap, for two welcome pints upon arrival. Cheers!

Craft beers and bar

Mission Bay Beach Club (0.8 Miles From Hotel)

Right on the water near Mission Bay, this waterfront lounge serves cold beers, cocktails, and light bites. Its scenic location makes it an ideal spot to enjoy a drink while watching sailboats and sunsets over the bay.

wine and beer cheersing by the bay
Photo: @missionbaybeachclub

PB AleHouse (1.5 Miles From Hotel)

Just steps from the sand in Pacific Beach, PB AleHouse offers a wide selection of local craft beers and a full menu of pub favorites. Grab a seat on the patio for ocean views and a laid-back beach vibe while sipping your favorite brew.

Eppig Brewing Waterfront Biergarten (2.2 Miles From Hotel)

Enjoy bayside views while sipping fresh German-style lagers at this laid-back biergarten in Point Loma. Known for its crisp, refreshing beers and relaxed vibe, Eppig is the perfect spot for a sunny San Diego afternoon. Grab a pint, sit back, and watch the boats glide across the bay.

Bay City Brewing Co. – Point Loma (2.5 Miles From Hotel)

A favorite among locals, Bay City Brewing pours hop-forward West Coast IPAs, rotating specialty brews, and easy-drinking lagers. Their Point Loma location offers a large outdoor patio that pairs perfectly with San Diego’s endless sunshine.

Ballast Point Brewing (3 Miles From Hotel)

An iconic name in San Diego’s beer scene, Ballast Point got its start right here. Visit Home Brew Mart in Linda Vista to taste their signature Sculpin IPA, Victory at Sea, and small-batch releases straight from the source.

ballast point beer glass

Modern Times Beer (3.5 Miles From Hotel)

Modern Times is known for creativity and bold flavors. The Lomaland Fermentorium in Point Loma offers an eclectic tap list that ranges from coffee stouts to tropical hazies. Expect funky décor, friendly vibes, and plenty of great beer.

Harland Brewing (4.5 Miles From Hotel)

A sleek, modern brewery with a coastal feel, Harland Bay Park specializes in approachable beers with clean flavors. Their Japanese lager is a local favorite, and the stylish tasting room is just a short drive from Mission Bay.

Craft beers

Karl Strauss Brewing Company (4.8 Miles From Hotel)

A San Diego original, Karl Strauss has been pouring craft beer since 1989. Their Pacific Beach location features a relaxing beer garden just minutes from the sand, with a menu of classics like Red Trolley Ale alongside rotating small-batch brews.

Coronado Brewing Co. – Tasting Room (5 Miles From Hotel)

This San Diego classic has been brewing award-winning beers since 1996. At their tasting room in Bay Park, you can sample island-inspired IPAs, malt-forward ales, and seasonal specialties that celebrate the laid-back coastal lifestyle.

flight of craft beer

Stone Brewing (5.2 Miles From Hotel)

A San Diego craft beer icon, Stone Brewing is celebrated for its bold IPAs and inventive seasonal releases. Enjoy a beer garden escape at the World Bistro & Gardens in Escondido, soak in the history at Liberty Station, or sip downtown at the Tap Room – Kettner. Wherever you land, Stone delivers uncompromising flavor and a true taste of San Diego’s craft scene.

Societe Brewing (6 Miles From Hotel)

Known for “beer-flavored beer,” Societe focuses on timeless styles like IPAs, stouts, and lagers that highlight quality ingredients. The laid-back tasting room is perfect for beer purists who want to enjoy San Diego’s craft scene without the frills.

Deft Brewing – Bay Park (6.2 Miles From Hotel)

This neighborhood gem specializes in European-inspired beers, from Belgian tripels to German wheat ales. The outdoor patio often hosts live music and food pop-ups, making it a fun and friendly stop for locals and visitors alike.

four beers raised in a cheer

Make Your Beer Adventure a Bayfront Getaway

After a day of brewery hopping, come back and relax here at The Dana on Mission Bay. Lounge by the pool, enjoy waterfront drinks and dining at Firefly Eatery & Bar, and unwind in your guestroom with views of the marina or the bay. With so many breweries close by, The Dana is the perfect home base for your San Diego craft beer adventure.

Couple Dining

food on beach picnic
04 Sep 2025

San Diego’s Best Beachside Bites

By The Dana

If you’re in San Diego, there are two things you simply must do: (1) enjoy our incredible food scene (starting with tacos, naturally) and (2) hit the beach! With that in mind, we invite you to stay with us at The Dana on Mission Bay, the perfect place to experience both. Here, you can savor San Diego’s foodie culture while being just steps from the sand.

To help you plan your trip, we’ve rounded up some of the most popular coastal spots for beachside bites near The Dana, where you can pair amazing beaches with flavors you won’t forget.

Local Favorites Near the Dana:

Firefly Eatery & Bar (Located Onsite at the Hotel)

Firefly Eatery & Bar is the perfect spot to enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a sunset cocktail during happy hour with views of the water, marina, and pool. Prefer to take your meal on the go? Grab our guest-favorite Surfer Breakfast Burrito, fresh fruit, fish tacos, or a quesadilla and enjoy a bayside picnic or a bite on the beach.

outdoor dining space

Sandbar Sports Grill (1.1 Miles from Hotel)

Located next to Belmont Park at the Boardwalk in Mission Beach, the Sandbar is the place to go for fish tacos, especially since they continuously win all the “Best Fish Taco” competitions in the area. Dine beachside on the rooftop patio and enjoy ocean views and cool coastal breezes at one of the most popular beachfront restaurants in San Diego.

Photo: Sandbar Sports Grill

Cannonball (1.3 Miles from Hotel)

Ask any local: one of the best beachfront restaurants in San Diego is most definitely Cannonball at Belmont Park. Experience waterfront dining with refreshing craft cocktails, delicious sushi, and unforgettable California cuisine along with impressive Mission Beach views from the largest rooftop terrace in the city.

Two drinks with live music at Cannonball in San Diego

Photo: @cannonballsd

Draft (1.3 Miles from Hotel)

This popular Belmont Park beachside restaurant is a great place to grab a bite to go and walk straight out onto the beach for a picnic. Relax and put your toes in the sand as you enjoy burgers, salads, and even an ice-cream sundae from Draft on the beach!

people holding cocktails in front of beach

Photo: @draftsandiego

Mike’s Taco Club (2.5 Miles from Hotel)

This Ocean Beach taco spot is just steps from the water and is one of the most popular beachfront restaurants in San Diego. Known as one of the best taco places among locals, Mike’s Taco Club is located right on the beach, has a pet-friendly patio, and serves unique dishes like the octopus taco and the surf and turf burrito! Stay for the view or take it to go and relax with lunch by the water.

tacos

Photo: Mike's Taco Club

Beachside Bites in Mission Beach & Pacific Beach:

Luigi’s at the Beach (1.1 Miles to Hotel)

Sometimes ya just gotta have a slice and, in San Diego, you go to Luigi's at the Beach. Known for the best pizza slices in Mission Beach, this popular beachside dive has been a staple on the waterfront since 1985 and is a favorite beachfront restaurant in San Diego.

pizza

Photo: @luigisatthebeach

Acai Carioca (2.7 Miles to Hotel)

Make sure to try some of the best and most authentic acai from a little beachy hut right by the shore at Acai Carioca in nearby Pacific Beach. This perfect sweet and refreshing treat is the ideal refreshing sweet treat to beat the heat with in the California sunshine.

acai bowl

Board & Brew (2.8 Miles to Hotel)

Nothing says SoCal quite like sunshine and a beachside sandwich. Since 1979, Board & Brew has been serving up some of the best beach grub around — complete with their famous secret sauce sandos. A must-try for beach day bites in San Diego!

sandwich

Photo: @boardandbrew

Kono’s Café (2.9 Miles to Hotel)

Located along the Pacific Beach boardwalk, Kono’s Café is the place to be if breakfast is your thing. Try the breakfast burrito to get fueled for the day. It’s also a great place for surfers who often stop by in their wetsuits because it’s the ideal takeout spot for a post-surf meal.

Photo: @coastalclicker

Trader Joe’s in PB (3.0 Miles to Hotel)

Looking for the perfect place that has everything to build your own picnic with tasty snacks, drink options, and unique desserts? Trader Joe’s is easy to grab and is right on the way to the beach. There is something for everyone at this popular supermarket in San Diego.

A picnic of fresh fruits, wine, dips and crackers

Prince St. Pizza (7.8 Miles to Hotel)

One of the super popular beachfront restaurants in San Diego, this NY-style pizza parlor offers a tasty slice with beachy views! Try the Sicilian-style square slices and round Neapolitan pies with handcrafted signature sauces and dough made fresh daily. You’re gonna want to grab a slice or three…. it’s that good at Prince St. Pizza!

nashvillelifestyles

Photo: @nashvillelifestyles

End the Day at the Beach with Dessert in San Diego (Pacific Beach)

The Baked Bear (2.8 Miles from Hotel)

Grab a custom ice cream sandwich from the Baked Bear and head to the beach in San Diego! This funtoand beachy specialty ice cream shop lets you create the perfect ice cream sandwiches from your choice of over a dozen different ice cream and cookie flavor! From chocolate chip cookies with mint ice cream to snickerdoodles with toasted s'mores ice cream, this is one of the coolest places to grab a sweet treat in San Diego.  

Photo: @thebakedbear

Desserts by Clement (3.0 Miles to Hotel)

Not saying we saved the best for last, but…this popular dessert spot is on point for everything sweet and the internet is on fire with news about its offerings! From macarons and croissants to cruffins and even the popular Dubai Chocolate Bar, this French pastry chef does it all!  A sweet treat from Desserts by Clement is the perfect ending to a great beach day in San Diego.

Photo: @dessertsbyclement

Enjoy Beachfront Bites During Your Stay at The Dana

Before, during, or after spending some time at one of our many amazing beaches near the Dana on Mission Bay, be sure to check out one of the cool beachfront restaurants in San Diego. Stay and have breakfast, lunch, or dinner right on the beach, or take it to-go for a picnic on the sand!

Book your San Diego escape today with us at The Dana for the best resort-style amenities, onsite beachside bites, and pet-friendly accommodations on Mission Bay.

patio deck with the mission bay view