👨‍🍳 In 2005, Chef Stephen Carson embarked on a culinary journey by becoming the ^3rd owner of the then-struggling Regents Pizzeria, a cozy 1,100 square foot, 32-seat restaurant. Despite the odds, Stephen, equipped with nearly 20 years of experience in the restaurant industry, envisioned a vibrant future for Regents. The transformation he spearheaded was remarkable. ✨ Though the menu mirrored today's offerings, it initially lacked the authenticity, quality, and flavor Stephen dreamed of bringing to life.

📆 For almost two years, Stephen devoted himself day and night, foregoing a salary, to redefine the restaurant experience, setting standards that left an indelible mark. Tragically, in 2011, we lost Stephen to a courageous battle with cancer, but his legacy endures. His visionary touch is evident in the restaurant's bold flavors, authentic menu items, and the vibrant culture that we cherish today. The little pizzeria he cultivated now thrives as a stunning 4,100 square foot, 150-seat haven, complemented by a craft beer bar. 🍻

 Happy Valentine's Day

🌍 In the hustle and bustle of today's fast-paced world, it's incredibly easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of responsibilities and priorities. As we navigate through life's daily demands, we often forget to pause and cherish the little moments that truly matter. This Valentine's Day, let's make a conscious effort to slow down and focus on those who mean the most to us. 💖

There’s no better time to shower your loved ones with attention and affection. Whether it’s enjoying a movie night with your children or sharing a cozy meal with your partner, it’s the perfect opportunity to bask in each other's company. 🍿 Grab some popcorn and unwind together, reflecting on the joy of simply being present with one another. Give the gift of quality time, because these are the memories that last a lifetime. 🎬

In a world that often seems to be speeding ahead at lightning pace, today is your chance to hit the brakes. Spend time with your cherished ones and create unforgettable moments that will warm your hearts for years to come. Let's make it a priority to connect, linger, and savor the precious moments with those we love. ❤️

San Diego’s Little Italy Food Hall and its adjacent restaurant Basta are set to permanently close their doors after their final service on Sunday, February 16, 2025. This closure follows shortly after celebrity chef Sam “The Cooking Guy” Zien announced his complete departure from the restaurant industry in late January.

The closure was announced through a notice to residents of the neighboring Vici Luxury Apartments. While no official reason has been provided for the shutdown, Vici Management has indicated they are actively seeking new partners for the space.
The property, which includes 6,331 square feet of interior space and a full liquor license, was listed for sale by Next Wave Commercial real estate brokerage in late 2024 for $495,000, after a $100,000 price reduction from the original listing.

The Little Italy Food Hall has been a significant culinary destination, featuring multiple food vendors, a bar, and an outdoor piazza setting. Basta, which opened in mid-2024 as an East Coast-inspired Italian eatery, replaced the previous concept, Graze by Sam The Cooking Guy.
This closure represents another major change in Little Italy’s dining scene, coming after Grit & Grain Collective’s previous withdrawal from a planned Seaport Village restaurant. The hospitality group, which initially indicated it would continue operating the restaurants after Zien’s departure, has not yet made any public statements about the future of its restaurant portfolio.

Both establishments are located at 550 W Date Street in San Diego’s Little Italy, and will continue normal operations until their final day of service

San Diego Unified School District, California’s second-largest district, has experienced a significant decline in student enrollment over the past decade, losing approximately 12,500 students, representing an 11.6% decrease. This decline is more severe than both the state and county averages, with San Diego Unified’s 10.5% drop between 2015 and 2023 exceeding California’s 6% and San Diego County’s 5.2% decrease.

The district projects a further loss of 741 students in the coming school year, though the rate of decline has slowed from its peak of 3,165 students between 2019 and 2020. Several factors contribute to this trend, including declining birth rates and San Diego’s high cost of living, which particularly affects young families. This is evident in the stark contrast between different sub-districts - coastal areas like La Jolla and Point Loma have significantly fewer resident students compared to central-southern neighborhoods.

The enrollment decline poses significant financial challenges for the district, which already faces a $112 million deficit. Despite the district’s relatively good academic performance compared to state and national averages, the trend shows no signs of reversing, particularly as universal transitional kindergarten’s initial boost has been absorbed

San Diego Humane Society

If you aren’t interested in seeing the cutest, roly-poliest puppy you’ve ever seen, by all means move along. But for those of you with a pulse, allow us to introduce Sock. This potbellied puppy had everyone fawning over him last week when his foster brought him in for his neuter. Visit the Humane Society Here >>Click here