Ivy’s Ultra Lounge and Wine Bar now open in the Gaslamp

Courtesy Photo - Ultra Lounge & Wine Bar

The popularity of wine bars is by no means declining here in San Diego. On the contrary, wine bars continue to open up all over the county. The newest addition to this trend is the swanky Ultra Lounge and Wine Bar at the Ivy Hotel, which opened October 1st.

This contemporary space is both classic elegance and hip sophistication; a combination that tends to work well in Gaslamp hotels and for which the Ivy Hotel is best known for. With an open floor plan, comfortable seating arrangements are scattered throughout the lounge, accommodating larger groups while at the same time providing an intimate setting for couples.

The Ultra Lounge and Wine Bar has replaced “traditional” with “high-tech” by offering an assortment of wine using the latest in interactive enomatic wine machines. Each WineStation maintains bottles of wine at the perfect temperature then dispenses the wine in Taste (1.5 oz.), Half (4 oz.) or Full (6 oz.) sized pours. Just purchase a SmartCard and then browse the selection of 80 wines. Make your choice, insert the card and then put a wine glass (located under each station) under the spout. That’s it! No need to wait for a server or bartender.

The selection of wines offered ranges from moderately priced to high-end “cult” and boutique varietals. Prices reflect this range starting at $1.76 for a Taste of the 2007 Willamette Valley Riesling and top off at $28.47 for a Full glass of the 2004 Opus One.

Menu offerings are limited but decidedly delicious and are meant to enhance the tasting experience rather than provide a complete meal. An assortment of cheese, cured meats and cured olives are all perfect accompaniments to pair with your wine. A highlight on the menu is the Prosciutto and Arugula Pizza, which is made with garlic, mozzarella and white truffle oil. Also delicious are the Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates that are wrapped in bacon and topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Open until 9pm on Friday and Saturday nights, the Ultra Lounge and Wine Bar is the perfect “pre-destination” for a night on the town and showcases the Ivy Hotel’s talent for blending refined elegance with a sexy ambiance.

Ivy Hotel’s Ultra Lounge and Wine Bar
600 F Street
Downtown San Diego – in the Gaslamp
619-814-1000

Hours:
Sun – Wed: 1pm – Midnight
Thurs – Sat: 1pm – 9pm