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.

a christmas themed drink
01 Dec 2025

The Perfect Evening Out: The Best Spots for Cozy Winter Dining in San Diego

By The Dana

If cozy string lights, festive holiday décor, intimate dining spaces, and warm, inviting menus sound like the perfect evening out in San Diego; you are definitely in for a treat this winter in your favorite SoCal city.

Ambiance is everything this season, with many enjoyable scenarios for the perfect winter's night out in San Diego. We invite you to enjoy the coziest winter dining experiences in the most unique atmospheres that are perfect for an evening out with friends, an intimate dining experience with romantic vibes, or a festive family outing with all the holiday bells and whistles.

The Dana on Mission Bay offers the perfect backdrop for your holiday and winter festivities in San Diego. Our waterfront, pet-friendly hotel in San Diego focuses on the perfect décor, comfortable rooms, and a festive atmosphere for guests. And, we are close to all the best and most unique holiday experiences in San Diego. Cheers to comfortable rooms, cozy winter dining options, and festive holiday nights out in San Diego!

San Diego’s Most Festive Bars for a Perfect, Cozy Holiday Night Out

Firefly Eatery & Bar (Onsite at Hotel) 

Friends by the firepits at Firefly

Enjoy the best cozy dining experience in a bayside setting at our very own on-site Firefly Eatery & Bar. Enjoy dinner and drinks under romantic string lights, setting the mood along with twinkling marina and poolside views, outdoor fire pits, and ambiance-warming heaters. Guests will relax and unwind this holiday season in a festive atmosphere without even leaving The Dana. Celebrate the season with our Holiday Dinner Special, featuring a Rosemary-Crusted Prime Rib, on December 24th, 25th, and 31st.

Miracle at Draft (1.2 Miles from Hotel) 

christmas cocktail

When it comes to Christmas bars in San Diego, Miracle at Draft is a favorite! This waterfront Christmas-themed cocktail pop-up bar is decorated with the best over-the-top holiday decor and even offers seasonal drinks in collectible mugs like Mistletoe Kisses, Not Your Granny’s Fruitcake, and Frosty’s Vacation. Try the Short Rib Ragu or a traditional Pazole for dinner! This festive spot near your hotel room at The Dana has the perfect atmosphere to snuggle up and sip handcrafted cocktails celebrating the best flavors of the season. Great place for evening plans after a day at Winter Wonder Beachside at Belmont Park.

Sippin' Santa at the Grass Skirt (3.6 Miles from Hotel) 

christmas cocktail

Happening November 20 through December 31, 2025, Sippin’ Santa at the Grass Skirt is one of the most popular Christmas pop-up bars in San Diego. This island-themed Christmas bar in Pacific Beach is decorated in its holiday finest, including twinkling palms and tiki-inspired holiday décor. Dine on tiki-inspired food and drinks as you're transported to a festive island holiday paradise with seasonal cocktails including Coco Ho Ho Ho, Sippin’ Santa, Holiday on Ice, and Jingle Bird. Dinner includes your island favorites like the best bao, noodles, bowls, and burritos in San Diego. Enjoy a daily menu of holiday food specials, as well as seasonal cocktails for the occasion.

Barbarella (9.6 Miles from Hotel) 

christmas cocktail

Known for their exciting, immersive holiday atmosphere and décor, Barbarella in La Jolla offers a festive scene everyone will love beginning on November 20 and lasting through January 4, 2026. Enjoy some downtime with friends or family at one of the best Christmas bars during your San Diego winter vacation. This one-of-a-kind culinary gem is decorated for the season and is transformed into a magical winter wonderland with seasonal cocktails including the "Oh Christmas Tree" shooter, Candy Cane Lane martini, and Whiskey for Santa drink specials. The holiday menu includes delicious Lamb Rack Medallions, Fettuccine Bolognese, and their popular mint chocolate lava cake, along with a variety of daily holiday dinner, drink, and dessert specials in their retro-cozy seaside restaurant!

Cozy Restaurants in San Diego

Cesarina (2.7 Miles from Hotel) 

christmas dinner

Opened in 2019 by three Italian natives, Cesarina honors the Italian matriarchy with its mission to create a social, merry atmosphere that nurtures the community as a mother would. Everything is made in house at this popular open-air PASTIFICIO (pasta factory), with a cozy, family vibe with authentic food and a warm and inviting rustic charm and ambiance. It’s the perfect way to spend a winter's evening in San Diego, with traditional holiday decorations, and soft warm blankets for chilly nights under the stars.

Starlite (4.9 Miles from Hotel) 

restaurant

(Photo: @ikaiapal)

Possibly one of the most inviting and unique restaurants in San Diego, Starlite is a swanky eatery with craft cocktails and an elevated dining experience that will leave you wanting more! Choose from three unique dining areas that include star-studded skies, jungle patios, beautiful waterfalls. The food, décor, stars, and ambiance are key to setting up the perfect evening. Enjoy wine and cocktails while sharing plates of Wagyu Beef or local Yellowtail Tartare appetizers or main dishes of Bison Short Ribs and Jidori Chicken for a unique dining experience, and an evening you won’t want to end!

Wolf in the Woods (5.4 Miles from Hotel) 

dining menu

A classic yet modern New Mexican restaurant, Wolf in the Woods has created the perfect aesthetic of Native American, European, and Hispanic cultures. Voted Restaurant of the Year in 2024, this popular San Diego eatery is passionate about old and new world-inspired wines and recipes with the main goal of offering a warm, creative, space for guests. With interior décor that is inspired by the legendary folklore and art of native New Mexico, Wolf in the Woods offers a warm and welcoming ambiance for a memorable evening.

Juniper & Ivy (5.7 Miles from Hotel) 

christmas decor and cocktail

An abandoned warehouse has been transformed into Juniper & Ivy, a popular San Diego restaurant with a big, open kitchen where diners can watch the Chef Team in action! The ambiance is impeccable with one of the most creative and refined menus in San Diego. Enjoy an unforgettable dining experience in the enticing bar area, sit in the zen-like, dimly lit wood-beamed main dining room, interact with the culinary team at the Chef's counter, or enjoy the beautiful SoCal weather under the stars on the covered patio for the perfect relaxing holiday evening.

Born & Raised (6.1 Miles from Hotel) 

christmas holly

Located in a renovated former 1930s-era drugstore, the current home of Born & Raised has been transformed into a “mid-century modern meets art deco” fine-dining steakhouse. Classic, timeless, and opulent, this 250-seat concept restaurant is the perfect spot for cozy, winter dining in San Diego. This Little Italy restaurant has lavish features including oak pillars, a six-tiered brass and crystal chandelier, and the perfect showmanship with many dishes being prepared tableside for guests. They also have an inviting, and romantic lantern-lit rooftop terrace with velvet chairs, a marble bar, and warming views of the Little Italy rooftops.

Wormwood (7.8 Miles from Hotel) 

restaurant dining table
Photo: @wormwoodsd

This inviting and relaxing French spot with a Bohemian vibe has perfect date night written all over it! The ambiance! The food! The views! Yes, please and thank you! The elegant yet whimsical ambiance is enhanced by the vintage Paris design with a brick-walled courtyard and patio. This unique and cozy San Diego restaurant and Absinthe Bar also comes with the rare opportunity for a guest dining experience at a Chef’s Table, an Absinthe Tasting, and live music and entertainment.

Get Cozy This Winter at The Dana on Mission Bay

Firefly Outdoor shot

The Dana on Mission Bay is the perfect place to stay this winter while you wine and dine your way around San Diego’s best holiday restaurants and pop-ups. You’ll be close to all the best places for celebrating the season, like the coziest restaurants, festive pubs, over-the-top holiday happenings, and the most romantic places for a seasonal cocktail or magical meal.

Make plans today for the perfect stay in the perfect suite at our Mission Bay hotel this winter. Take advantage of these specials and offers when making your reservation and prepare to relax and enjoy the holidays in our cozy coastal oasis in San Diego.

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