The Ultimate Guide to Rooftop Dining in San Diego
The Ultimate Guide to Rooftop Dining in San Diego
Few cities do rooftop dining quite like San Diego. With its year-round sunshine, coastal breezes, and downtown skyline, it's the perfect place to take your lunch or happy hour to new heights. And if you're looking for the best in the city, there’s one place that stands out from the rest: The Pool House.
Perched above the Pendry Hotel in the Gaslamp Quarter, The Pool House is more than just a rooftop lounge — it’s a destination for outdoor dining, weekend brunch, and elevated cocktails with a view.
Rooftop Dining Done Right: Why The Pool House Stands Out
Whether you're planning a midday escape, a casual client lunch, or a laid-back date, The Pool House checks every box:
✅ Open-air dining with panoramic downtown views
✅ Coastal-inspired menu with fresh, shareable plates
✅ Stylish rooftop seating and poolside ambiance
✅ Full-service bar featuring craft cocktails, wine, and frozen drinks
✅ Perfect for weekday lunch, weekend brunch, or pre-party bites
This isn’t just about food — it’s about the full experience.
What’s on the Menu: Fresh, Flavorful, and Made for Sharing
The Pool House menu was crafted to match the laid-back luxury of the space — think light, seasonal dishes that pair perfectly with sunshine and a drink in hand.
Guest favorites include:
● Tuna poke nachos
● Grilled shrimp tacos
● Truffle fries & sliders
● Frosé, cucumber mules, and spicy margaritas
● Brunch boards and mimosa towers on weekends
Whether you’re joining us for a downtown lunch or kicking off a weekend celebration, the menu is as photo-worthy as the view.
When to Visit: Weekday Lunch vs. Weekend Brunch
Weekday Lunch:
Looking for a relaxed rooftop lunch in San Diego? Weekdays offer a quieter vibe — ideal for meetings, solo diners, or lunch with a view. Table service is available 11am–3pm, with food and drink options curated for casual luxury.
Weekend Brunch + Day Party:
On Saturdays and Sundays, the rooftop transforms into a daytime celebration with DJs, cocktails, and a lively crowd. Perfect for birthdays, bachelorettes, or just saying yes to sunshine.
Rooftop Dining + Day Party = The Perfect Combo
Only at The Pool House can your lunch plans turn into poolside party plans. Stay for the vibes, upgrade to bottle service, or book a daybed and soak in the full rooftop lounge experience.
Need a weekend itinerary? Start here, then visit Oxford Social Club or check the latest San Diego Events to keep the party going.
Tips for Making the Most of Rooftop Dining at The Pool House
● Reservations recommended for weekend brunch or large groups
● Dress code: Resort casual during the day; stylish after 4pm
● Ask about table upgrades if you want to stay for the DJ
● Arrive early to beat the rush and grab your favorite table with a view
● Don’t forget your camera — sunset on the rooftop hits different
Your Go-To Rooftop Restaurant in San Diego
Whether you're a local seeking a midweek escape or a visitor planning the perfect Gaslamp day, The Pool House is the ultimate destination for rooftop dining in San Diego.
📲 Book your table
📅 Check out weekend events + menus