San Diego's The Dubliner Closes Up Shop At Its Home Of Nearly 20 Years

August 28, 2020

After almost 2 decades on Fourth Avenue in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, The Dubliner has closed up shop, but the Irish pub affirms they intend to reopen at a new location.

The Dubliner, originally Dublin Square Irish Pub, was opened in 2001 by Sam Ladki. The Gaslamp Irish bar was built as an exact replica of the 1700s-era Tynan's Pub in Kilkenny, Ireland, and the two bars were "twinned" in official ceremonies in 2002. Yesterday, The Dubliner ownership officially announced it was ending its run at 554 Fourth Avenue in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter.

"Some bittersweet news to share...", posted The Dubliner ownership to the restaurant's social media channels. "After 20 years in the Gaslamp, we are moving locations. We have enjoyed every minute of the Gaslamp and we are so grateful to all of our loyal customers! We will see you again soon once we are settled into our new spot."

The Dubliner currently does not have a location leased to reopen and has indicated the decision to close was due to an inability to reach an agreement with the building's landlord. Many area restaurants have reported they are unable to renegotiate lease terms with property owners amid their struggle to stay afloat while limitations on indoor dining are maintained due to COVID-19. Several longtime local eateries have already shuttered because of the pandemic, including Crab Catcher in La Jolla, Searsucker in the Gaslamp, downtown's Bang Bang, Donovan's Steak & Chophouse, Whisknladle in La Jolla, The Oceanaire Seafood Room in the Gaslamp, The Balboa Bar & Grill in Bankers Hill, and the entire Souplantation chain.