Originally slated for an August debut, the opening was delayed as General Manager Tellas Bobo and Michelin-starred Chef Esteban Luis reimagined their vision, crafting a venue that merges elevated dining with an energetic nightlife experience. Kaluu occupies the space that previously housed Double Black Lounge Bar & Kitchen. The new venue is part of a dining group that includes Tacos El Cabron and Broken Yolk Cafe, with Tellas Bobo - known for his work with popular nightclubs like Fluxx, Cake, and Oxford Social Club - leading the project.
Kaluu's culinary offerings come from Chef Esteban Luis, who fresh off his success at the Michelin-starred Damiana in Baja California's Valle de Guadalupe. The menu combines traditional Mexican flavors with innovative techniques, featuring standout dishes such as Tacos de Nada (filled with potato and soyrizo, topped with tomato-oregano salsa, cotija, and crema), Sinaloan Style Free-Range Chicken with Molcajete Sauce, Suckling Pig, and a decadent Wagyu Burger.
As the night progresses, Kaluu transforms from a dining destination into a high-energy lounge. Guests can enjoy music from a cutting-edge sound system, and immersive visuals, including smooth-moving LED lights, dynamic laser displays, a 3-D butterfly mural wall, and a massive screen behind the DJ booth showcasing vibrant graphics. A central dance floor invites guests to let loose, while the dining area maintains a more refined ambiance.
Bringing Kaluu to life involved overcoming challenges unique to its downtown San Diego location. Situated beneath residential apartments, the team worked diligently to meet permitting requirements for cooking, alcohol service, and amplified music. With these hurdles cleared, Kaluu now aims to become a standout destination in the Gaslamp Quarter.
Kaluú is located at 534 Fifth Avenue in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter. For more information, visit kaluusd.com.
As the night progresses, Kaluu transforms from a dining destination into a high-energy lounge. Guests can enjoy music from a cutting-edge sound system, and immersive visuals, including smooth-moving LED lights, dynamic laser displays, a 3-D butterfly mural wall, and a massive screen behind the DJ booth showcasing vibrant graphics. A central dance floor invites guests to let loose, while the dining area maintains a more refined ambiance.
Bringing Kaluu to life involved overcoming challenges unique to its downtown San Diego location. Situated beneath residential apartments, the team worked diligently to meet permitting requirements for cooking, alcohol service, and amplified music. With these hurdles cleared, Kaluu now aims to become a standout destination in the Gaslamp Quarter.
Kaluú is located at 534 Fifth Avenue in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter. For more information, visit kaluusd.com.
Originally published on November 24, 2024.
