Going Out in The Gaslamp: A Neighborhood Guide

Updated: July 21, 2009

With Comic Con 2009 upon us, The Gaslamp Quarter is the place to be for the next 5 days. Find out what's happening, from restaurant openings to the best dance clubs, and what we can't live without on Fifth Avenue.

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

Top Gaslamp Restaurants

  1. 1 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.

  2. 2 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.

  3. 3 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. 4 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.

  5. 5 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. 6 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.

  7. 7 3.5 Star Rating: Average Rama
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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.

Gaslamp Bars and Clubs

  1. 8 4 Star Rating: Recommended Envy
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    600 F St, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    The Ivy's exclusive, four-level nightclub with a cigar bar draws top DJs and a VIP clientele with Benjamins to burn.

  2. 9 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.

  3. 10 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 darn good time at "The Godfather" of Gaslamp watering holes.

  4. 11 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.

  5. 12 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.

  6. 13 3.5 Star Rating: Average Lounge Six
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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. 14 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.

Shopping, Spas and more in the Gaslamp

  1. 15 Massage Envy
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    1091 K St, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    A full, one-hour massage for less than $50? Massage Envy's no-frills atmosphere makes it possible.

  2. 16 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.

  3. 17 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.

  4. 18 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.

  5. 19 5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended Spa Velia
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    401 W A St Ste 180, San Diego, CA 92101 (map)

    It's a bit outside the Gaslamp (near the W Hotel) but we think it's worth the hike. With just a handful of treatment rooms, and an intimate relaxation lounge, it's one of the most luxurious but comfortable spas downtown.

  6. 20 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.