A 1920s landmark is reborn as a dashing boutique hotel, boasting all-day restaurant Luca, an outpost of Intelligentsia Coffee and other tasteful flourishes
Words by BROOKE PORTER KATZ
The Army-Navy YMCA building has stood sentry in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter for almost 100 years, providing more than 125 million military personnel a place to stay throughout its history. Today, after a meticulous restoration, visitors to the city can once again spend the night at the Italian Renaissance-inspired structure, thanks to the opening of The Guild Hotel.
Inside, both guests and locals will find plenty of reasons to linger, including the Mediterranean, all-day restaurant Luca; come dinner, expect dishes like tender wine-braised octopus and pork tenderloin with chocolate-mushroom sauce. There’s also a courtyard, an outpost of Intelligentsia Coffee, and a sleek lobby bar done up in plush, jewel-toned seating and marble-topped tables.
The 162 high-ceilinged guest rooms are no less stylish — think minimalist globe lighting, leather headboards, rose-gold accents, and artwork that celebrates the property’s history. For the ultimate splurge, book the the two-bedroom penthouse Heritage Suite, which comes with a private elevator entry and a roof deck.
And brides-to-be, take note: the old basketball court is now maybe the most un-hotel hotel ballroom we’ve seen — original blond wood floors, simple globe pendant lights and white brick walls.
From $250/night. 500 W. Broadway, San Diego, 619-795-6000.
Feature image: The lobby of THE GUILD HOTEL in San Diego. Photo by Dylan + Jeni.
This story originally appeared in the September 2019 issue of C Magazine and has been updated as of Aug. 27, 2019.
Discover more TRAVEL news.
