Find fresh, delicious food at The Desmond, which is part of Kimpton Alma in the Downtown San Diego Gaslamp District. The Gaslamp is known for its nightlife but has its fair share of other things to do, whether you're with kids, on a romantic trip, or stopping by with friends.

If you're staying in the Kimpton Alma, consider getting dinner at The Desmond, which is located on the mezzanine level. 

The Desmond San Diego at Kimpton Alma downtown Carmen Varner food and travel writer

Where is The Desmond San Diego?

The address of The Desmond is 1047 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101. They invited me to have dinner, so I went with my family to see what goodies were on the menu. The menu centers around San Diego and California cuisine with options like seafood and pasta. 

Parking in Downtown San Diego

The hotel has valet parking, which is easier than circling the one-way streets of downtown San Diego in search of a spot. But if valet isn't your thing, you can drive further away to seek a place.

Food and Menu

If you enjoy bread, start with the roasted garlic and herb focaccia bread service. The menu seems to rotate through the seasons, so when I checked back about two months later, the items I got weren't on it. They have appetizers, entrees, desserts, and cocktails.

That said, I really enjoyed the fresh, housemade pasta. The ingredients and thoughtful presentations are focal points to ensure an experience unlike anything you'd get at an average restaurant. Each dish is carefully presented. 

It's a terrific spot to celebrate a birthday, retirement, or special occasion dining experience. The prices are above the standard burger joint but not as costly as you'd expect for a fine-dining restaurant. You can get a cocktail and entree for around $75-80, depending on your order. They also have a 3-course and 5-course menu but you can call ahead to inquire about this.

The Desmond San Diego at Kimpton Alma Carmen Varner food and travel writer

Desserts

The menu will vary, but you can expect incredible deliciously seasonal desserts. Don't leave without getting at least one. For example, they have a Wildflower Honey Coconut Tapioca that's made with mango custard, honey sweet mango, coconut geleé, and a bit of toasted coconut.

When I went, I had the Basque Cheesecake and Gianduia Chocolate Budino. Both were decadent and the perfect way to end the evening. Desserts cost $10-15, which is around the same price as a dessert at a pizza place in North County San Diego. 

Desmond Kimpton Alma downtown San diego food pasta

Cocktails at The Desmond

The cocktails are well-crafted and balanced with a range of alcohols and flavors, like Stranahan’s Whiskey. This drink is shaken with cardamom tea and lemon.

Ambience 

I went earlier during dinner service and was among the first people there. During dinner, several other patrons filtered through, whether on a date or business trip. It was still quiet and spacious. The bathroom stalls are gender-neutral and in one open-concept bathroom area.


Visit The Desmond San Diego in Southern California if you want a night of high-quality food experience. They are only open for dinner, but it's a lovely spot for a meal, wine, or dessert.