What’s New in San Diego for 2023

There’s simply no other place on earth like San Diego. Not only is “America’s Finest City” one of the most beautiful places on Earth (thanks to our beachside location and famously mild year-round climate), but there’s no end of incredible things to do. From thrill-a-minute theme parks, to world-class museums, to delicious dining, exceptional entertainment and majestic nature experiences, there’s never a dull moment. Even so, the city is never content to stay stagnant. Here’s a closer look at what’s new in San Diego for 2023.   

 

Wild Flour (2.9 miles)

(Photo: @phillipesteban

San Diego native Chef Phillip Esteban is always on the lookout for new ways to make life delicious for the city’s residents. The success of his White Rice Bodega in Normal Heights has allowed him the freedom to stretch and expand in all-new directions. His latest venture — an entirely new deli concept called Wild Flour — is opening at Liberty Station in Spring 2023. While little is known thus far about the menu or theme, Phillip never disappoints.

2640 Historic Decatur Rd, San Diego, CA 92106

 

Arctic Rescue Coaster at SeaWorld San Diego (5.3 miles)

(Photo: @seaworldsandiego)

San Diego may be well-known as a warm, sunny paradise, but 2023 will be bringing a breath of fresh, cool air to SeaWorld’s thrill ride lineup. The brand-new Arctic Rescue Coaster is an experience unlike any other ride in the park’s history. Guests will hop astride a lightning-fast snowmobile-style seat, strap in, and white-knuckle their way through some of the most pulse-pounding twists and turns the park has ever seen. 

500 SeaWorld Dr, San Diego, CA 92109   

 

The Gaslamplighter (6.3 miles)

(Photo: @gaslamplighter)

Karaoke is making a big post-pandemic comeback, as would-be stars from every walk of life once again take up the mic all over town. The team behind the perennial Mission Hills karaoke favorite The Lamplighter is opening a second location in the Gaslamp Quarter in 2023. Appropriately named The Gaslamplighter, the new hotspot aims to elevate karaoke night with an elegant, art-deco cocktail lounge atmosphere. So drink up and sing out! 

536 Market St, San Diego, CA 92101

     

Randy’s Donuts (12.7 miles)

(Photo: @randysdonuts)

Randy’s Donuts has been a Los Angeles institution since 1962. In the decades since, the massive donut-shaped sign perched atop their stores has beckoned many a sweet tooth from all over the world to sample their world-famous treats. Randy’s makes their long-awaited San Diego début in 2023, with the first of 10 planned locations in the city opening its doors at a Serra Mesa stop in January. Honestly, who doesn’t love donuts?    

3737 Murphy Canyon Rd, San Diego, CA 92123

 

Topgolf 

 

(Photo: @topgolf)

Since opening its first location in 2000, Topgolf has become a phenomenon for club-swingers of all skill levels. For the uninitiated, Topgolf is part driving range, part bar and grill, part party destination, and all fun. And it’s coming to San Diego in the form of not one, but TWO massive, multi-million dollar locations next year (one in Port of San Diego, and the other in Sorrento Valley. Even if you’ve never touched a nine-iron in your life, you’ll absolutely want to experience the fun for yourself.     

Harbor Island, San Diego, CA 92101

 

New Restaurants of Note

(Photo: @corkandbatter)

San Diego is known the world over as a “foodie” town. Which is great news for locals and visitors alike, since exciting new restaurants are opening all the time. Here are just some of the hotly anticipated new destinations we’re excited to check out in 2023: 

  • California English: “Top Chef” all-star Richard Blais brings his take on casual European fare to San Diego. 
  • Cheese Garden: If you’ve never had Japanese-style cheesecake, you’re sincerely missing out. Try this fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth delicacy here in 2023.
  • Cork & Batter Sports Bar: Summer ‘23 will see the ribbon-cutting on this elevated sports bar experience offering fresh tavern food and bay views. 

 

Stay at Best Western During Your “What’s New” Tour

(Photo: @island_palms)

Best Western Plus Island Palms would be thrilled to host your fresh SoCal experience. Our central Shelter Island location, exceptional accommodations, awesome amenities  and personal-touch service keep our guests coming back visit after visit. Take a look at our Special Offers page for all the best San Diego travel deals, we’ll see you soon!