The Desmond in San Diego could be the perfect destination for an unforgettable dinner affair. Situated at the Kimpton Alma in the Gaslamp Quarter on 1047 5th Avenue San Diego, CA 92101, this is a convenient spot for an evening meal whether you are staying at Kimpton Alma or exploring the Gaslamp Quarter. I was graciously invited by The Desmond for dinner, so I went with my spouse and baby to have a taste.
The ambiance is spacious with ample seating options. Depending on your group size, there are booths, tables, a few bar stools, and even a sofa for relaxation. They serve exclusively dinner starting at 5 pm, but do keep in mind they are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
The strategic location of The Desmond within the hotel makes it a fantastic choice for a family dinner after check-in or when you prefer not to venture too far from the hotel. My husband, baby, and I settled in a booth with space to accommodate the stroller. They provide high chairs for the little ones and booths for bigger groups. We took an elevator to the mezzanine from the ground floor, though stairs were also available.
The Cuisine
Lets delve into some of the dishes on the menu and what makes them special. Commence with the bread service, featuring delectable roasted garlic and herb focaccia alongside whipped ricotta topped with local honey, sunflower seeds, sumac, and extra virgin olive oil. It is a wonderful starter to your gastronomic journey without leaving you overly full.
The kale and orange salad comprises compressed beets, red onion, Castelvetrano olives, pistachio relish, and citrus vinaigrette. Every bite is enveloped in the vinaigrette, while the beets add a touch of sweetness to the greens.
Even for those not particularly fond of seafood, the octopus al pastor is subtly flavored with no overpowering fishy notes. The octopus is skillfully prepared to be both crispy and slightly chewy, paired with pineapple and creamy avocado. The addition of harissa marinade, tepache avocado salsa verde, pickled onions, cilantro, and Masienda tostada introduces a refreshing element that keeps it light.
The braised beef cheek is a must-try if you appreciate a well-executed beef dish. Thanks to the guajillo tomatillo salsa and seasonal pickles, it is tender and tangy. It practically melts in your mouth and harmonizes perfectly with the fluffy and sweet Moroccan baghrir pancakes. Combine the braised beef and baghrir to craft a delightful taco. This dish truly stands out.
The indulgent sweet potato gnocchi has a savory profile with a lingering umami finish. The duck confit offers a subtle crunch, while the candied pearl onions, Madeira sauce, Parmesan, and brown butter crumbs come together seamlessly to create a truly rich dish. While the braised beef cheek is juicy and satisfying, the sweet potato gnocchi exudes luxury and richness.
At The Desmond, there is an array of cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages available if you fancy a drink. The non-alcoholic drinks are creatively constructed, mirroring the expertise found in their cocktails, making it a great choice if you opt for a non-alcoholic yet flavorful option.
Should you find space for dessert, the Basque Cheesecake is served with crushed almond cookies, horchata ice cream, toasted meringue, and plum powder, offering a delightful mix of soft cheesecake, crunchy cookie bits, and smoky toasted meringue.
The Gianduia Chocolate Budino is a dense treat featuring crisp English toffee, chocolate cream, and flambé bananas. Even avid chocolate enthusiasts will appreciate the opulence of this dessert. It can be likened to an elevated, dense chocolate pudding.
Downtown San Diego and Gaslamp Quarter boast numerous upscale dining options to consider for your next visit to the city. The central location of The Desmond in Gaslamp, coupled with the convenience of staying at Kimpton Alma, positions it as a top choice for travelers checking in at the hotel or locals seeking a memorable dinner experience.
Image Source: gaslamp.org / Shutterstock
