The freshly opened Salt & Whiskey brings a welcome food and beverage reboot to the Gaslamp’s historic Horton Grand Hotel. Its Victorian inspired whiskey temple (the beautiful mahogany Palace Bar), has a new menu that features whiskey forward drinks and holds more than 500 varieties in its whiskey cabinets. The old “Ida Baileys” is now a new and inspired restaurant with welsh born executive chef Aaron at the helm.
We were invited to their debut party which was incredible. Lots of delicious passed hors de ouveres of Chef Thomas’ creations. Like a fresh beet salad, rich cheeses, a chilled gazpacho and pork belly just to name a few of the delights. We were also able to try their Dusty rabbit cocktail, and sip tastings of Whiskey.
The recent refresh now seamlessly connects the lobby bar to the restaurant’s dining room, which extends into an open air, tree-shaded courtyard that served as a perfect exhibition site for the Rabbitville Rabbits! The new restaurant is ripe for dining, leisurely brunching and live music Thurs- Sunday evenings where guests can order a dusty rabbit, and take in the historic vibes. Chef Aaron Thomas, who recently cooked at The Rancho Bernardo Inn’s Avant restaurant has added Welsh rarebit, as well as a riff on fish and chips and English breakfast, and says he plans to add more British comfort classics once the weather finally cools down on the new menu. This upscale but straightforward menu, aims to be a dynamic and seasonal spot designed to attract neighborhood residents and create a new downtown dining destination.
Congrats to the Horton Grand Hotel and the debut of Salt & Whiskey. Get your reservations today!