Vulture marks Stetina’s first time owning the building in which one of his restaurants operates, and the project has been in development for five years. Designed by Brooklyn-based Home Studios, Vulture features a dramatic and immersive interior with floral-patterned walls, sculptural elements, plush seating, and no exterior windows, offering an intentionally secluded dining experience. Guests will enter through the back of sister-concept, Dreamboat Diner before passing through a velvet curtain to access Vulture.
Though not widely publicized, Stetina has long partnered with Arsalun Tafazoli, co-founder of the influential hospitality group Consortium Holdings (CH Projects). While Vulture is not formally part of CH Projects, the influence is unmistakable. From conceptual execution to atmospheric design, Vulture may bear the closest resemblance to a CH venue of any Stetina-led space to date—blending theatrical visuals with culinary ambition in a way that echoes the Consortium playbook.
The menu pays homage to classic fine-dining dishes with entirely plant-based ingredients. Standouts include a vegan take on steak Diane, prepared with a wood-fired lion’s mane mushroom grown to the restaurant’s specifications by Mindful Mushrooms in El Cajon. Another dish, called the Oscar, features Beyond Steak filet with hearts of palm, béarnaise sauce, and asparagus. Additional menu offerings include Parker House rolls with cultured vegan butter, beet tartare, plant-based pâté, and a Caesar salad tossed tableside using a house "Grandpa Joe’s" dressing.
Executive chef Pancho Castellón, who has previously worked at San Francisco’s Michelin-starred Niku Steakhouse and San Diego’s Serea at Hotel del Coronado, brings live-fire cooking experience to the plant-based menu. A custom wood and coal-fired grill anchors the kitchen, with flame-touched elements integrated into many dishes.
The cocktail menu, curated by Lucas Ryden, offers a mix of classic and inventive drinks, including a highly technical house martini served in several variations. The bar also includes a lineup of zero-proof cocktails and creamy dessert drinks crafted with non-dairy alternatives.
Vulture is located at 4608 Park Boulevard in San Diego's University Heights. For more information and to make reservations, visit vulturerestaurant.com and check out the menu below.
Originally published on June 13, 2025.
