Going Out in The Gaslamp: A Neighborhood Guide

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Updated: March 12, 2009

Find out what's happening, from restaurant openings to the best dance clubs, in the downtown Gaslamp scene.

On this page:Gaslamp Bars and Clubs, Shopping, Spas and more in the Gaslamp, Top Gaslamp Restaurants.

Gaslamp Bars and Clubs

  1. 1 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Aubergine
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    500 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    Sleek, stylish dance club and sushi bar is home to hip and in-the-know party crowd.

  2. 2 2.5 Star Rating: Below Average Sweetwater Saloon
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    207 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    Randy Gerber blends goth, country and urban design in the Hard Rock Hotel's chic, see-and-be-seen lobby bar.

  3. 3 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Bondi
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    333 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    The Gaslamp goes Down Under with simple, fresh food and an impressive Aussie beer selection imported in eco-friendly kegs.

  4. 4 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Nicky Rottens Bar & Burger Jnt
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    560 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    Stiff drinks, simple snacks and no cover make for a rotten good time at "The Godfather" of Gaslamp watering holes.

  5. 5 5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended Red Circle
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    420 E St, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    A storied Gaslamp haunt is back to serve well-heeled nightcrawlers with an upscale, Asian menu and pulsing DJs.

  6. 6 3.5 Star Rating: Average Jbar
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    616 J St 4th Fl, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    Poolside rooftop bar defines urban oasis in a Gaslamp boutique hotel.

  7. 7 3.5 Star Rating: Average House Of Blues
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    1055 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    Rock out to headline bands and performers at this intimate, legendary live music and dance venue.

  8. 8 4 Star Rating: Recommended Stingaree
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    454 Sixth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    Gaslamp hot spot has A-listers buzzing about the exclusive rooftop patio and top DJs spinning in the lounge.

Shopping, Spas and more in the Gaslamp

  1. 9 Ghirardelli Soda Fountain
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    643 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    Chain shop known for rich chocolate pieces delivers ice cream treats to tourists and small groups in the Gaslamp.

  2. 10 3.5 Star Rating: Average Extraordinary Desserts
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    2929 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103 (map)

    Romantic dining room just off Balboa Park features gourmet, desserts-only menu.

  3. 11 Lucky Dog Pet Boutique
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    415 Market St, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    Upscale pet pampering boutique in the Gaslamp sells clothing, travel accessories, treats and more for your pooch.

  4. 12 5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended Spa Velia
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    401 W A St Ste 180, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    Downtown holistic spa near the W Hotel offers relaxing face and body treatments.

  5. 13 4 Star Rating: Recommended Z Gallerie
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    611 5th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    Enhance home or office with chic furnishings, culinary gadgets and decorative accessories.

  6. 14 4 Star Rating: Recommended Urban Outfitters
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    665 5th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    Trendy chain that models the latest fashions and bold home decor in a colorful, vivacious atmosphere.

Top Gaslamp Restaurants

  1. 15 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Red Pearl Kitchen
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    440 J St Ste 108, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    Upscale downtown Asian eatery buzzes with well-heeled 92101ers at the bar and foodies sharing plates from the eclectic, spicy menu.

  2. 16 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Nobu
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    207 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    World class sushi spot 'rocks' into the Gaslamp with upscale Japanese and a swanky dining room.

  3. 17 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Confidential
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    901 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    Hip downtown loft restaurant is cool by association to celebs, a locally renowned chef and top DJs spinning into the wee hours.

  4. 18 3.5 Star Rating: Average Rama A Thai Restaurant
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    327 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    Zen-like peace sets apart the Thai food experience at Alex Thao's downtown hot spot.

  5. 19 4 Star Rating: Recommended Blue Point Coastal Cuisine
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    565 5th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    Gaslamp destination serves up surf and turf favorites and Mediterranean-inspired seafood creations in a relaxing, supper club atmosphere.

  6. 20 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Oceanaire Seafood Room
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    400 J St, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    For an evening reminiscent of 1940's glamour and charm, dine on oysters and caviar paired with a glass of bubbly at this clubby, downtown spot.

  7. 21 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Candelas Restaurant
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    416 Third Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    Strictly candle-lit after dark, this moody lounge is heavy on the romance factor and follows through with sophisticated Mexican cuisine.

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