UPDATED: Uptown Tavern opens Friday in Hillcrest

ENLARGE

(Editor’s note: This story has been updated on Monday, July 16, to reflect that Uptown Tavern will be opening earlier than expected. The original opening date of July 23 has been now moved to Friday, July 20.)

SAN DIEGO — Workers and designers are busy putting the finishing touches on Uptown Tavern in Hillcrest, a new bar and eatery by the folks who own West Coast Tavern in North Park.

David Cohen and Bobby Jones say they are now opening on Friday, July 20, just in time for San Diego Pride weekend. Uptown Tavern is located at 1236 University Ave., formerly the home of Ono Sushi.

Michael Soriano is the designer of Uptown Tavern’s interior and exterior décor, which is being described as this in a news release:

Truly a one of a kind motif for the neighborhood, Soriano masterfully blends touches of factory life of the ‘30s and ‘40s with sleek modern accents.

Focusing on the historical characteristics of the building, this space offers a trip back in time with ample views of original brick walls and façade simply dressed with a clear coat finish and exposed wooden ceiling beams with accent lighting. Soriano’s touch is clearly evident in the finer details as well, as the integration of “found objects” plays a key role in the ambiance. Salvaged material from actual factories playfully adorn Uptown Tavern to help give it an authentic industrial feel.

“This type of approach supports local businesses that sell these items as well as promotes sustainability in repurposing items that are no longer being used as they were initially intended,” says Soriano.

The result, a casually hip bar and eatery that invites guests to eat, drink and socialize in a comfort and style that can only be found in Hillcrest.