Old Town Beauty Is Restored to Pristine Condition

As a lifetime resident of San Diego I heard some news that made me very excited.

I remember Old Town was always a happening place with plenty to do, see and not to mention eat. Casa de Bandini, named after the original owner Juan Bandini, was one of mine and San Diego’s favorite spot to get cool and refreshing libations along with tasty dishes. It had a wonderful open patio in back where one could sit back and enjoy the great year around weather.

It was bought by Albert Seeley in 1869 and operated under the new name of The Cosmopolitan Hotel which brings us to my topic of the day.

Let’s start with a quick look back. Casa de Bandini for many years was a thriving restaurant in Old Town and was a landmark of the park. It though, along with many other establishments, fell of the map for quite some time.

An out of state company gained control of the operations of the historic businesses in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park with dismal results. Business dropped dramatically once the new company came in and made changes that obviously San Diegan’s weren’t happy with.

I use to remember having to wait over an hour to be seated at Casa de Bandini, Casa de Pico and other places in the area. Under the new management it was possible to walk right in 95% of the time with no wait what so ever.

The Old Town park was, for a lack of better words, dead.

Fast forward to recent times and a local management group has revitalized the historic Old Town State Park.

Changes have been made to recoup San Diegan’s love of the park and they seem to be working. In recent visits I feel the energy returning along with the people. If you haven’t gone recently I encourage you to do so and I’m willing to bet you’ll fall in love with Old Town once more.

Recently announced is the completion of restoration of The Cosmopolitan Hotel restored to it’s old grandeur and now open for business.

With renowned San Diego Executive Chef Amy DiBiase, formerly of Roseville in Point Loma, at the helm we’re sure to enjoy many fine meals once again in Old Town.

To look at a portrait of the Cosmopolitan from the 1800’s and a black and white taken today anyone would be hard pressed to distinguish them apart. So if you’re looking for something to do this weekend come on down to Old Town and revisit a piece of San Diego history.

The Cosmopolitan is ready to welcome you once again with open arms, San Diego hospitality and great food.