The Local is relocating its downtown San Diego location to the former Bootlegger space at 804 Market Street in East Village.
Founded in 2003 by Mina Desiderio, The Local started as a neighborhood bar and eatery in the Financial District and quickly gained a reputation for its laid-back atmosphere, strong local identity, and ties to the San Diego sports and craft beer communities. Over the years, Desiderio has expanded the concept to include The Local PB in Pacific Beach and has opened other staples in Ocean Beach, such as Wonderland Ocean Pub and OB Surf Lodge.
Now, Desiderio is getting ready to relocate the downtown site to the former Bootlegger location in East Village, first reported by SanDiegoVille and confirmed by What Now San Diego. At the same time, Modern Times Beer is set to take over both the longtime home of The Local and the adjacent space, which Resident Brewing previously occupied. Bootlegger closed earlier this year after a 13-year run.
Desiderio tells What Now that the new East Village space will be called DT Local and will introduce a version of The Local in Pacific Beach, but tailored for the downtown crowd. Desiderio says, “We are doing a version of PB Local in this space. The Local downtown will close and become a Modern Times concept. The Local downtown entity will dissolve.” DT Local will reflect the beach-inspired menu and bar program that has defined the brand, with adjustments for its urban surroundings.
DT Local will carry over many of the menu staples and welcoming atmosphere that have defined The Local’s previous locations. The East Village venue will include ample indoor seating, a central bar, and the same emphasis on local beer and fresh, casual fare. It’s expected to serve both neighborhood regulars and visitors seeking a relaxed dining option downtown. It’s unclear when DT Local is scheduled to open.
