THE FOODIST / SHARE AND SHARE ALIKE

New South Park Commons, San Diego, 30th & Beech. 
Photo: Lori Weisberg, Union Tribune.

Creative Business Site Sharing: The New Wave of Collaborative Spaces in San Diego:

In the wake of the pandemic, many businesses across the country have been faced with new challenges. While some have struggled to stay afloat, others have found innovative ways to thrive by sharing space, pooling resources, and creating dynamic hubs that not only benefit individual businesses but also invigorate their communities. 

A prime example of this trend can be seen in the South Park neighborhood of San Diego, where a formerly vacant space has been transformed into a bustling community hub. The newly minted South Park Commons brings together a diverse group of businesses, including Bock, a German-centric beer bar, and Stella Jean’s, a delightful ice cream and pie shop. 

These businesses share a location, creating a synergy that benefits both owners and patrons alike. The South Park Commons project was initiated by property owner Gilbert Lee, who purchased the building housing both the former Hamilton’s Tavern and Kindred. With the help of seasoned entrepreneurs like Brian Jensen (Bock) and Steven Torres (Pop Pie Co. and Stella Jean’s), Lee crafted a unique community space. Not only did he aim to revitalize the area, but he also sought to bring a sense of cohesion, creating a draw that benefits all the businesses within it. This collaborative approach stands as a testament to the success of site sharing in revitalizing commercial areas and enhancing neighborhood charm. 

The benefits of such collaborations extend beyond the obvious financial advantages. By operating in close proximity, these businesses elevate the area’s profile, increase foot traffic, and provide patrons with more reasons to visit. For instance, customers stopping by 1517 30th Street can enjoy a craft beer at Bock, savor a slice of pie from Pop Pie Co., and indulge in a scoop of Stella Jean’s ice cream – all in one vibrant location. Each business complements the others, offering a unique yet cohesive experience for visitors. 

By sharing physical spaces, these businesses help promote a stronger sense of community and increase the likelihood of success. As seen in the South Park example, each participating business can benefit from increased exposure and customer flow that might have otherwise been impossible when operating in isolation. In a time when resilience and innovation are crucial, the creative use of shared spaces presents an opportunity to reimagine how businesses can collaborate, support each other, and, ultimately, thrive together. 

Whether it’s a craft beer bar, an artisanal ice cream shop, or a co-working space, the future of business could very well lie in shared locations, where community, collaboration, and creativity converge. 

OTHER FOOD HALL CONCEPTS IN SAN DIEGO: 

* Sky Deck at Del Mar Highlands, California Located one suburb north of San Diego, Sky Deck offers a rooftop dining experience with multiple food vendors, providing a variety of cuisines and brews in a vibrant atmosphere. 

* Liberty Public Market – San Diego, California Situated in Point Loma, this market features a diverse selection of local vendors offering fresh produce, artisanal foods, and unique culinary experiences in a historic setting. 

* Barrio Food Hub: Located at 2707 Boston Ave in Barrio Logan, the Barrio Food Hub operates as a modern food hall featuring over 50 restaurants. They offer pickup and delivery services through various apps, providing a diverse range of culinary options to the community.