Located on Adams Avenue, the cozy and unpretentious wine bar first opened in 2012 under founder Rita Pirkl, who envisioned a gathering space where locals could explore wines from small, family-owned producers around the world. In 2015, John Crisafulli of BTS Hospitality took over ownership, continuing Pirkl’s mission of making fine wine approachable while maintaining the venue’s warm, neighborhood feel. In an announcement shared with customers, the Village Vino team expressed gratitude for the community that sustained them for more than a decade.
“Village Vino has been an incredible journey for all of us, and we cannot begin to express how much your support has meant over the past thirteen years. From the curious sippers to the seasoned collectors, you’ve created a community that has been warm, welcoming, and truly special. For that, we are endlessly grateful.”
Before closing, the bar will host a final wine club pickup from November 7-15, as well as one last wine club tasting featuring selections from Bordeaux, France, running November 12-15. Reservations for tastings are available by phone at 619.546.8466. A storewide wine sale is also underway, offering 20% off all retail wines and 30% off for wine club members.
Known for its ever-rotating selection of over 40 wines by the glass and more than 100 by the bottle, Village Vino built a loyal following for its intimate ambiance and curated menu of flatbreads, charcuterie, and small plates. The bar earned repeated recognition, including San Diego Magazine’s “Best Wine List” award for three consecutive years.
For many in Kensington, Village Vino was more than a wine bar - it was a gathering place where birthdays were toasted, friendships deepened, and newcomers were welcomed with a glass and a smile. As the Village Vino team put it in their farewell message: “Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for letting us be a part of your lives, your celebrations, and your glasses for over a decade. With love, and cheers to the future.”
Village Vino will close its doors after end of business on Saturday, November 15 at 4095 Adams Avenue in San Diego's Kensington neighborhood. For more information, visit villagevino.com.
Originally published on November 3, 2025.
