The City of San Diego is looking for a new tenant to revitalize and reopen a new restaurant in the historic Village Grill space, a popular site in Balboa Park near the Spanish Village Art Center.
A new Request for Proposals (RFP) has been issued by the city, which hopes a new restaurant will soon open in Balboa Park. Prospective operators are asked to submit detailed plans for the rehabilitation and operation of the 1,700-square-foot Village Grill, which has remained closed for the past seven years. The City hopes to find a tenant who can provide high-quality food and beverage options that meet the diverse needs of park visitors. Proposals are due by January 16, 2025, and must demonstrate renovation and maintenance plans, as well as a clear operating strategy and financial capacity.
Constructed in 1973, the Village Grill site features a walk-up counter, grill, exhaust system, roll-down window grills, and a walk-in cooler/freezer. Outside, there is a seating area designed to complement the surrounding landscape. The Village Grill last served customers from 2014 through 2017.
Proposals will be evaluated based on the proposer's experience, qualifications, financial stability, and renovation plans. Final lease terms will be determined after a lessee is selected, and any proposed modifications will require review by the City’s Parks and Recreation Department, the Balboa Park Committee, and the Balboa Park Historic Resources staff.
"Each year, Balboa Park welcomes about 14 million visitors to not only explore the San Diego Zoo, museums, gardens, arts and culture but to also enjoy delicious food," said Economic Development Director Christina Bibler. "We hope to receive proposals that will add to the unique culinary experiences offered in the park."
This RFP is part of ongoing improvements in Balboa Park, which has seen several historic preservation projects in recent years. The Starlight Bowl, a once-popular open-air amphitheater, is also slated for renovation under a separate RFP, with proposals due November 14. The City also signed a 25-year lease with the WorldBeat Center this July, supporting cultural programming and upgrades for the venue.
This RFP is part of ongoing improvements in Balboa Park, which has seen several historic preservation projects in recent years. The Starlight Bowl, a once-popular open-air amphitheater, is also slated for renovation under a separate RFP, with proposals due November 14. The City also signed a 25-year lease with the WorldBeat Center this July, supporting cultural programming and upgrades for the venue.
This effort underscores the City's commitment to maintaining Balboa Park’s status as a cultural and recreational hub for both locals and tourists.
