The Charcuterie Bar To Bring "Cheese Shop With Benefits" To San Diego's East Village

June 28, 2022

Replacing Dirty Dels in downtown San Diego is The Charcuterie Bar, a wine lounge and cheese shop unveiling this summer in the East Village. 

From certified sommelier, "recovering attorney", and owner of downtown San Diego's Boutique Vino, Justus Benjamin, The Charcuterie Bar will open this July on the base floor of the Fahrenheit Lofts in the ballpark area of the East Village. In addition to The Charcuterie Bar, Benjamin is also working on the launch of another wine-centric concept, Sabre Champagne & Wine Bar inside the Pendry Hotel in the Gaslamp Quarter.

"Charcuterie Bar is a cheese shop with benefits," explained Benjamin. "Meaning, we will provide the obligatory cheese and cheese boards but also salamis, wine, and accoutrements. The idea came from a visit to Barcelona where it's extremely common to have wine for lunch with a small plate of charcuterie and/or cheese." 

At The Charcuterie Bar, expect a menu centered around wines from smaller estates and locales with an emphasis on classics and under-represented producers, whether they be female winemakers, natural winemakers, or minority owned labels. As for food, expect shareable plates featuring an array of cheese, meats, and full boards featuring combinations of items. Wine and beer will be offered by the glass and bottle with a focus on half bottles for sharing amongst friends. The interior design will include a tiled and textured feature wall and a 12 seat cheese communal table, as well as a lounge area. Outdoor seating will be added within 6 months of opening. 
 
The Charcuterie Bar is anticipated to soft open mid July with a full grand opening planned August 8. The restaurant is located at 499 Tenth Avenue in San Diego's East Village.