Lei Lounge in University Heights is An Unexpected Oasis

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When you hear “Lei Lounge” you probably think of a tiki bar trap—tiki torches, pupu platters, grass skirts, the works—marooned among the ranks of less-than-par San Diego beach bars.

Think again. The unexpectedly stylish Lei Lounge rests comfortably in the neighborhood of University Heights, flanked by hoppin’ haunts Bourbon Street and DMood.

In just one year, Lei Lounge seems to have found its niche. Unique culinary and potable offerings, plus a classy-cool environment, make Lei Lounge an example of the culture and creativity that abounds in up-and-coming University Heights.

Bartender Bayardo De Murguia has been with Lei Lounge since it opened. Surrounded by a real cascading waterfall, warm beige walls, and luscious dangling foliage, he explains that the Lounge sees every variety of crowds pass through its doors, from neighbors in North Park and Hillcrest, to downtowners out for a low-key bite before a big-city night.

 “Our whole concept,” De Murguia says, “is you always just come here to have fun.”

De Murguia is clearly a master of his craft. Between pouring deliciously far-out drinks (like the poached pear and ginger daiquiri), he admits he works a similar job downtown, but has way more fun at Lei thanks to the people, the location, and most importantly, the fun, mellow atmosphere.

What makes the Lei Lounge stand out is an ability to combine the chic with the unconventional.

Similar to Downtown San Diego’s more expensive bars, Lei Lounge offers its diner sleek leather cabana booths bathed in soft purple light and the glow of heat lamps.

But while Lei Lounge’s ambience might  resemble Gaslamp-style luxury, the dinner menu is anything but common. International entrees like the Thai Beef Salad and the Lei’s Cuban Sandwich evoke distant islands, while the Philly Cheese Steak Spring Rolls and Crab Mac and Cheese both come highly recommended. The Cane Tuna, marinated in guava and cane rum and served with coconut rice and king crab is especially delectable. 

Despite its smallish size, there are lots of options at the Lei Lounge, whether you’re choosing between the Vanilla Berry Mojito and the Guava Berry Colada, or the energetic indoor bar and the cozy cabanas outside. Two certainties, however, are that patrons of this little oasis are constantly engaged by its unusual offerings and always return for more.