Cali Social Cafe To Open In San Diego's Pacific Beach, Taking Over Former World Curry Space

Pacific Beach is preparing to welcome a fresh dining concept to Garnet Avenue as Cali Social Cafe readies to bring a menu of globally-inspired dishes to the space long occupied by World Curry, which closed its doors late last year after nearly three decades in business.

Cali Social Cafe comes from Archana Sirohi, an immigrant Indian chef, mother of two, and owner of Natural Desi Cafe and Catering in Rancho Bernardo. With Cali Social Cafe, Archana is bringing her second venture to life, blending her culinary vision with her entrepreneurial spirit as a woman-owned business in San Diego's competitive dining landscape.

Billed as a modern fusion comfort food destination, Cali Social Cafe's menu will span global influences while maintaining a California sensibility. Diners can expect flavorful curry bowls, fresh salads, gourmet croissant sandwiches, signature tikka sauce pasta, Indo-Chinese specialties, decadent desserts, and refreshing mocktails. The restaurant has also secured a Type 41 liquor license, allowing it to serve beer and wine alongside its food offerings.

Menu highlights include pulled chicken or pork croissant sandwiches, lamb seekh kebabs, tikka sauce pasta, Indo-Chinese favorites like chilli chicken and veg manchurian, and fragrant curries ranging from red Thai to fiery vindaloo. Desserts such as choco lava cake and churros with chocolate sauce round out the offerings, making the café a versatile spot for both comfort food and adventurous eats.

For Archana, Cali Social Cafe represents more than just a restaurant - it’s about creating a community hub in one of San Diego’s liveliest neighborhoods. "Every dish combines global influences with a California twist, making it a perfect spot for food lovers seeking something new and comforting," she said of the project.

The opening also fills the notable void left by World Curry, which was a beloved part of Pacific Beach since 1995. Founded by Momoko and the late Bruce Jackson, World Curry introduced San Diegans to curries from Thailand, India, Japan, and beyond. Following Bruce's passing in 2022, the Jackson family ran the restaurant until announcing its closure in late 2024. For many, World Curry was more than a place to eat; it was a neighborhood institution built on passion, travel, and community. Now, in the same address, Cali Social Cafe aims to build on that spirit by offering a new kind of global dining experience.

Cali Social Cafe will open soon at 1433 Garnet Avenue in San Diego's Pacific Beach. For more information, visit calisocial.us, follow @calisocial.us on Instagram, and check out the draft menu below.
Originally published on August 25, 2025.