JRDN has finally reopened after two long months of renovations with a slick new glass enclosed sushi kitchen and Asian flair to the menu. JRDN’s incredible beach view remains the same, but an updated look inside showcases a “wave wall” set off by color-changing lighting in the evening. With most guests looking outward to the ocean, the main draw of the renovation is functional, not aesthetic. Most notably, an enhanced kitchen plus dedicated sushi bar means an expanded Japanese-inspired menu by Executive Chef David Warner that still feels very California. To compliment the menu, look for new sake and Japanese beer offerings along with their impressive wine selection and curated cocktail menu.
Offering one of Pacific Beach’s most upscale dining options, JRDN, in the Tower 23 Hotel, makes you feel like you’re on vacation in your own city. As a Crown Point native, JRDN has long been been go-to spot for sunset happy hour or relaxed brunch. Now, it’s new menu features innovative sushi options like the JRDN Two Point “Oh”, with spicy tuna, yellowtail, cucumber, cilantro, serrano pepper, onion, yamagobo, seared tuna, and charred lemon ponzu.
An unexpected delight on the menu were the recommended Ahi Tuna Nachos with avocado, mango, fresno chili, chives, shiso, cilantro, crispy wonton chips, sriracha aioli, and sesame seeds. With fresh, bright flavors and a perfect melding of textures, this is a great shareable item that is much lighter than I anticipated.
Another lovely choice with a similar flavor profile is the Pickled + Roasted Beet salad with tatsoi, citrus, candied ginger, goat cheese, avocado, pickled fennel, crispy quinoa, and yuzu-miso vinaigrette. This refreshing yet bold salad is the perfect start to a dinner, or a light lunch.
The expanded menu can be arduous to navigate, but well worth the trouble for the delicious new dishes. I imagine the restaurant will be narrowing down the menu as crowd favorites begin to stand out. Overwhelmed by the choices? Order several dishes and share with the table. When in doubt, stick to the Asian-influenced dishes to take advantage of the fresh seafood and lively new flavors coming from JRDN’s new kitchen.
Located within Tower23 Hotel at 723 Felspar Street in San Diego, JRDN is open daily for breakfast from 9-11am, lunch 11am-4pm, dinner, Sunday-Thursday 5-9pm, and Friday and Saturday from 5-9:30pm. Brunch is available Saturday and Sunday from 9am-3:30pm. For reservations, go to http://www.t23hotel.com/dine/.
