Old Town San Diego has a new dining gem that’s already creating buzz for its bold flavors, immersive atmosphere, and chic, speakeasy-inspired design. Welcome to Tako Vibrant Sushi, the latest restaurant concept from The Vibrant Project, helmed by Pietro Busalacchi, his father Sal Busalacchi, and their longtime friend Gustavo Rios. Building on the success of their other local favorites, Trattoria Don Pietro and El Sueño, Tako offers a new twist that’s perfect for Old Town’s lively restaurant scene.
A Hidden Oasis of Style and Flavor
Tako is an intimate and vibrant space that takes “vibe dining” to a new level. Guests enter through a dimly lit, floral and jungle-themed secret stairway that sets the mood for an evening of adventure. Inside, the atmosphere is electric, with a retro-futuristic disco ball, a DJ booth, and incredibly aesthetic signage that makes it feel like you’ve been transported to a hidden nightclub in a cosmopolitan city.
The restaurant’s 12-seat bar is the centerpiece, anchoring a cozy layout that features diverse seating options and nooks perfect for small gatherings or romantic dates. Every detail is carefully curated, from the plush seating to the moody lighting and artful decor, giving Tako a unique blend of elegance and excitement.
Where Mexico Meets Japan
Tako’s culinary vision is equally daring, featuring a rotating menu that masterfully fuses Mexican and Japanese cuisines. With fresh sushi, delicate crudo, and innovative seasonal dishes, this is no ordinary taco joint. Guests can expect a dining experience where flavors are layered, balanced, and completely unforgettable. Whether you’re sampling sashimi drizzled with spicy yuzu or savoring a miso-glazed elote, every bite is a journey across continents.
Cocktails That Steal the Show
Tako’s cocktail program is just as impressive. Using only the highest-quality spirits, the bar team has created a lineup of show-stopping drinks that combine classic Mexican and Japanese ingredients with a contemporary twist. The ‘Slow Dancing in a Burning Room’ is the star of the show—a stunning concoction made with Dos Hombres Mezcal, Ancho Reyes, blood orange, lime, agave, mint, and orange bitters. It arrives at the table amidst a dramatic display of ignited steel wool, creating a mesmerizing effect that captivates every sense. This is more than just a drink; it’s an experience that embodies Tako’s commitment to over-the-top presentation and unforgettable moments.
Your New Favorite Night Out
Tako is open Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., and on Friday and Saturday from 6 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. It’s closed on Mondays and Wednesdays, so plan your visit accordingly. With its eclectic menu, unique cocktails, and unparalleled ambiance, Tako is poised to become the go-to spot for locals and visitors looking for a fresh take on Old Town nightlife.
Continuing a Family Tradition of Excellence
The Busalacchi family has long been synonymous with great food and hospitality in San Diego, and Tako represents the next chapter in their culinary journey. Pietro Busalacchi, the visionary behind this newest project, has crafted a space that reflects the next generation of dining and drinking, blending the quality and elegance of fine dining with the energy and excitement of a hidden speakeasy. Tako isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience, and one that will leave a lasting impression on all who step through its doors.
Be sure to add Tako to your list of must-visit destinations and prepare to be swept off your feet by Old Town’s newest culinary sensation!
Hours
- Mon: Closed
- Tues: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Wed: Closed
- Thurs: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Fri-Sat: 6:00 PM – 11:30 PM
- Sun: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Address – 2836 Juan St, San Diego CA, 92110
Website – www.takosd.com
