The Lafayette Hotel in San Diego — Where Saltburn Meets American Horror Story Vibes with a Quentin Tarantino Twist

Approaching my 27th birthday, I was deciding on how I wanted to celebrate. I’m not big on grand birthday parties, and I wanted something unique and low-key. As a personal tradition, I usually indulge in a birthday photoshoot, often opting for a casual self-portrait session in my at-home studio. However, this year, I decided to switch things up and collaborated with Smalls Photography for a moody and creative session.

For the birthday festivities, I chose to enjoy drinks at The Lafayette Hotel in San Diego, drawn by its stellar reviews and the anticipation of it being an incredible backdrop for a photoshoot (provided we didn't get kicked out!).

This recently renovated historic gem offered a mix of Saltburn charm and a cinematic ambiance reminiscent of American Horror Story Hotel or a modern Quentin Tarantino film. While I didn't spend the night, The Lafayette Hotel left an indelible mark on my birthday memories with its unique charm and atmosphere.

Exploring the Allure:

The Lafayette Hotel seamlessly blends vintage aesthetics with contemporary vibes. Stepping into the lobby, classic and modern elements coexisted, each corner exuding its own distinct character.

As I ventured deeper into The Lafayette Hotel, the character of the establishment became more pronounced, revealing itself in the form of vibrant details and unique decor. The bright red hallways, reminiscent of a classic film noir, were the perfect backdrop for the photoshoot vibe we were going for. The bold color created a striking contrast against the vintage aesthetic.

I absolutely adored how neon signs adorned the walls, casting a warm and inviting glow that brought in a touch of contemporary flair. The vivid colors and retro fonts of these signs seamlessly merged with the classic decor. I love how effortlessly they incorporated the modern look with the more classic details, enhancing the overall look and feel of the entire space.

Situated just outside the city on El Cajon Boulevard, The Lafayette Hotel occupies a unique space that allows it to be a sanctuary away from the urban hustle, yet close enough to capture the city's dynamic spirit.

The allure of discovering hidden gems often comes with the inconvenience of finding the perfect parking spot, and The Lafayette Hotel embraces this quirk. Several side streets surrounding the hotel offer free parking, encouraging guests to explore the neighborhood and stumble upon local treasures. For those less inclined to navigate the side streets, opting for an Uber would be a convenient alternative, if like me you’re just visiting for a night of drinking.

Dining and Cocktails:

The hotel's offerings proved to be a highlight of my visit, as the hotel has two restaurants and three bars that cater to diverse palates. Every bar and restaurant possessed its own distinct character, and I appreciated the ability to stroll around the corner and encounter a unique experience at each one. We explored various bars, and although we couldn't sample them all, our favorites turned out to be Beginner’s Diner and The Gutter, but I’d love to go back and try out the rest!

Lobby Bar: We started our night off at the Lobby Bar, located right there in the lobby. It was gorgeous, surrounded by street lights that gave a warm and inviting aesthetic and it is circular in design, nestled beneath a glass atrium, creating an inviting space for socializing.

The Gutter: Drawing inspiration from Henry Frick’s personal bowling alley, The Gutter provides a playful escape within The Lafayette Hotel. With classic cocktails, pool tables, and shuffleboard, it caters to those who enjoy a nostalgic atmosphere. Personally, this became my favorite aspect of the hotel; I absolutely love the concept of a bar-cade! The spacious area allowed everyone to enjoy games and have a great time without feeling cramped.

As I looked over the cocktail menu, my curiosity about the "Trouble No More" drink caught the attention of the bartender. He gave a glowing endorsement to the drink, and I decided to give it a try. The drink was a combination of Gin and Prosecco and lived up to the hype! Especially recommended for those with a preference for sweeter drinks, the "Trouble No More" became an instant favorite, and will be my go-to when visiting again!

Beginner’s Diner: This 24-hour haven, reminiscent of a traditional 1940s diner, was perfect for our late-night cravings. What impressed me most was the diverse and tempting menu. Every plate that passed by looked as enticing as the next. We opted for the Patty Melt with Curly Fries, a classic choice; A juicy and flavorful masterpiece sandwiched between two slices of perfectly grilled bread, a blend of melted cheese, sautéed onions, and a well-cooked patty created a harmonious combination that satisfied our cravings. Although, I’m pretty sure we would have been happy with anything on the menu!

Though we didn’t get a chance to check these out, the hotel offers two more options for drinks and dining:

Quixote: For a unique experience, Quixote stands out as an Oaxacan-inspired concept and Mezcalería. The blend of flavors and vibrant atmosphere makes it a must-visit spot for those craving an exploration beyond the ordinary.

Pool Bar: Evoking the luxury of the 1980s Amalfi Coast, the Pool Bar offers a relaxing and beautiful atmosphere designed to be a lighter and more refreshing palate from the other bars in the hotel.

Even though my time at The Lafayette Hotel was short, the experience left an indelible impression. The combination of Saltburn charm, American Horror Story Hotel vibes, and Quentin Tarantino-esque modernity creates an irresistible allure, making it a destination you can't miss when in town. It has already become one of my favorite places, and I'm eager to return soon! Whether you crave exceptional cocktails, delicious food, or a distinctive hotel stay in the San Diego area, The Lafayette Hotel stands out as a must-visit, ensuring an unforgettable experience.