The space carries a rich culinary legacy. Urban Solace, opened in 2007 by chef Matt Gordon, quickly became a catalyst for North Park’s transformation into a major dining destination. Known for its inventive takes on comfort food and its community-centric atmosphere, the restaurant earned acclaim as one of the neighborhood’s anchors. Its closure in March 2019 marked the end of an era, driven by rising operational costs and Gordon’s critique of an evolving, social media-driven dining culture.
Following the closure, Gordon transitioned to a leadership role with Blue Bridge Hospitality in Coronado before relocating out of state in 2024. Meanwhile, the 3,872-square-foot property - featuring a bi-level interior and a private patio - remained vacant for nearly six years before finally being listed for lease earlier this year, symbolizing both an opportunity and a challenge for its next tenant. Now, Bacari intends to breathe new life into the landmark space.
Founded in 2008 near the University of Southern California, Bacari has expanded to eight locations across the Los Angeles area. Known for their vibrant, small plates-driven menus, Bacari's offerings reflect Mediterranean and global influences, shaped by Executive Chef and co-founder Lior Hillel’s extensive background, which includes time at New York's three-Michelin-starred Jean-Georges restaurant.
Each Bacari location offers a seasonally changing scratch menu emphasizing shareable dishes rather than traditional large entrées. Popular menu highlights from existing locations include red wine braised beef cheek with goat cheese polenta (pictured above), Asian pear and brie pizza, ricotta & beet gnocchi with chevre fondue, and grilled pita stuffed with seasoned ground beef and served with amba aioli and pickled onion. The beverage program features craft cocktails made with house-pressed juices and syrups, anchored by the Bacarita - a watermelon-infused spin on the classic margarita.
Each Bacari location offers a seasonally changing scratch menu emphasizing shareable dishes rather than traditional large entrées. Popular menu highlights from existing locations include red wine braised beef cheek with goat cheese polenta (pictured above), Asian pear and brie pizza, ricotta & beet gnocchi with chevre fondue, and grilled pita stuffed with seasoned ground beef and served with amba aioli and pickled onion. The beverage program features craft cocktails made with house-pressed juices and syrups, anchored by the Bacarita - a watermelon-infused spin on the classic margarita.
True to its Venetian inspiration, Bacari’s ambiance blends casual elegance with neighborhood-driven design. No two Bacari spaces are exactly alike; each restaurant incorporates elements of the local architecture and vibe. In North Park, Bacari plans to embrace the building’s existing New Orleans-style charm, enhancing rather than erasing its historic character.
The North Park location is expected to offer weekend brunch service and extended late-night hours, catering to the community’s vibrant nightlife. Details such as final operating hours will be shaped by neighborhood demand, with flexibility to remain open into the early morning if patrons desire.
Bacari's expansion into San Diego reflects broader ambitions beyond just one restaurant. The group is actively scouting additional sites throughout the county, with neighborhoods such as Little Italy, Leucadia, and Carlsbad under consideration for future locations.
Bacari aims to open in early 2026 at 3823 30th Street in San Diego's North Park. For more information, visit eatwithbacari.com.
The North Park location is expected to offer weekend brunch service and extended late-night hours, catering to the community’s vibrant nightlife. Details such as final operating hours will be shaped by neighborhood demand, with flexibility to remain open into the early morning if patrons desire.
Bacari's expansion into San Diego reflects broader ambitions beyond just one restaurant. The group is actively scouting additional sites throughout the county, with neighborhoods such as Little Italy, Leucadia, and Carlsbad under consideration for future locations.
Bacari aims to open in early 2026 at 3823 30th Street in San Diego's North Park. For more information, visit eatwithbacari.com.
Originally published on April 26, 2025. Information first reported by Beth Demmon for San Diego Magazine
