D Bar Remodels, Wants to Be Known For Its Savory Side Too

Celebrating its third anniversary is D Bar San Diego; founded by chef Keegan Gerhard, a familiar face from the Food Network, and his wife and partner Lisa Bailey, also an award-winning pastry chef, the eatery is an extension of the couple's flagship D Bar in Denver, which moved into expanded digs last fall. Though it's still a dessert destination, with a large open bar where you can see your sweets being made, Gerhard says going forward, they want the 'D' in D Bar to be known equally for dining and drinks and recently remodeled the Hillcrest restaurant to better reflect the revamped concept.

A wall now separates the dining room from the bar and new lounge space, which offers a happy hour whose deals include $4 wine, beer and a cocktail of the day. A semi-enclosed private room has been added, where the restaurant will host themed dinners, from chocolate to spirits; an upcoming event features a five-course menu paired with beers from New English Brewing Co. Chef Gerhard will also start offering regular cooking classes. Recently-installed GM Matt Parsons (University Club) says that newly-named executive chef Jason Salazar and sous chef Aaron Obregon have expanded the savory side of the menu and have made a new commitment to source local ingredients. The restaurant says that it's ready to add more locations too; next up is Austin.