Now Open: Rendezvous, a Historic French Speakeasy, Re-Opens Downtown
After almost 40 years, the century-old US Grant Hotel has re-opened its historic French-style speakeasy, Rendezvous, in Downtown San Diego.
Now Open: Realm of the 52 Remedies
First came Vin de Syrah. Then came Noble Experiment, The Charles Kenneth, and False Idol. Now another “hidden” speakeasy has joined San Diego’s ranks. Realm of the 52 Remedies just opened inside the Convoy gastro-tavern Common Theory Public House, and we got a first look.
Where It Is
Hopeful patrons can expect to pass through multiple spaces before reaching the final “realm”. A communal lounge area across from the sprawling main bar is the first stop, where those without reservations can wait on modernist couches for potential entry (reservations are strongly encouraged).
Once entry is granted, an austere lobby with stark neon lights and shelves of oddities serves as a re-imagined “waiting room”. This futuristic apothecary counter, complete with jars of elixirs, tonics and, of course, a list of the ancient 52 remedies of Chinese medicine, is merely the entryway into the main space.
Don’t skimp on exploring the details; this portal and the main area are chock-full of conscious design choices made by Michael Soriano of Onairos Design to commemorate the Chinese and Korean heritage of co-owners Cris Liang and Joon Lee.
From here, the host invites guests to press the raised silver Chinese character on the sliding door in order to enter the main (and final) circle.
The Vibe Within
The lavish room mixes opulence and comfort with Far Eastern flair. Although the area is dimly lit, the jade bar itself glows and provides a futuristic, but welcoming vibe. Intricate designs are everywhere, from the mirrored clouds hanging above the bar to various lounge areas. Multiple seating spaces allow for more intimate gatherings, without feeling claustrophobic.
What To Order
Unless your ailment is sobriety, their “remedies” are unlikely do anything but satiate your palate on a journey through surprising, quirky, and unusual concoctions.
The “Farewell, My Concubine” cocktail features Nikka Coffey vodka, Blinking Owl orange vodka, Nostrum Asian pear shrub, ginger, Bittermens spiced cranberry bitter, lime, and “cranberry air”, a frothy concoction lending a whimsical element to the extravagant decor. It’s poised to be a favorite on the menu, both flavor-wise and Instagrammability.
Another standout is the “Jade Empress”, made with green tea, French banana liqueur, fresh lemon, Ming River bai jiu, and salted cream cheese, which lends it a savory edge that makes the rest of the sweetness pop. (Think salted caramel ice cream — it shouldn't work, but it does.)
Cocktails hover at around $13, but prove to be well worth the price tag. Veteran bartender Chris “Dong Kyu” Lee is the man behind the menu, and patrons can expect high-end mixology from the staff.
The small bites reflect the same care as the cocktail program. Crispy sunchokes with Chinese long beans, salsa matcha, sweet soy, and puffed quinoa cilantro provide a welcome respite between cocktails, as does the creamy crab and corn croquette. Food ranges between $9 and $14 and are best for one person.
Realm of the 52 Remedies
4813 Convoy Street, Kearny Mesa
December hours: Monday to Thursday, 5pm - 11pm; Friday to Saturday, 5pm - 1am; Sunday: 5pm - 10pm
Permanent hours (starting in January): 5pm until 2am, seven days a week
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