University Club’s refreshed gather-work area (University Club San Diego)

Elevated Makeover

By Frank Sabatini Jr.

San Diego’ social and business elites will christen the “reimagined” University Club located on the 34th floor of downtown’s Symphony Towers. The long-awaited renovation of the club, which serves as a membership restaurant and multi-functional event space, is being officially unveiled on Oct. 10. The black-tie affair is also a fundraiser for Olive Crest, a national organization with a branch in San Diego that is dedicated to preventing child abuse.

The club’s $2 million transformation reveals 360-degree views from throughout the 12,500-square-foot space, thanks to a more open layout. Natural elements and earth tones prevail, along with an expanded dining area and 10 additional seats at the bar. The remodel also features improved technology in the club’s “Gathering + Work Space” and upgraded aesthetics in the plush board room.

Administrative staff are hoping to recruit a new generation of young, professional members into the club for their dining, networking and special-occasion needs. (University Club’s under-40 membership fee is around $285 a month, plus a $750 startup charge.) The club also allows non-members to book business and social events, including weddings, birthdays, fundraisers and more.