Cancel

Open app

Search

Chez Jay Pop Up

4.9 (17 reviews)
Closed Closed

Chez Jay Pop Up Photos

CHEZ JAY POP UP ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?

You might also consider

Recommended Reviews - Chez Jay Pop Up

Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
Yelp app icon
Browse more easily on the app
Review Feed Illustration

Reviews With Photos

Nina T.

I've gone to this Pop-up about three times since discovering this on IG way back in 2020 - it took me a while to finally go, because of the lockdown and such but it definitely stayed on my mind after seeing that Tony Hawk (resident SD foodie extraordinaire) had also attended at one point!! I thought I'd sit around a write a review since I've only had positive experiences and I wanted to share. The food is great - definitely any time there is wagyu it's always a treat. The food is the primary reason why I go back, it's always something unique and interesting and it's never the same thing twice. The most recent meal has swordfish, lamb, tuna, and wagyu in the same meal! The wagyu and the lamb were definitely my favorite and I found the Tuna dish with the balsamic caviar and Japanese bbq sauce really interesting. Chef Jay definitely has the skill and lots of love to give in the form of his food! It feels like you're at a really fancy dinner party, and the majority of the time, you will leave with new friends. There is a 6-seat dining table and then a 3-seat chef's counter - the chef's counter is more than the dining table but it's definitely worth it to watch the dishes get put together and will allow you the pick the brain of the chef. The personal interactions are really great and I've always enjoyed learning about how certain dishes are developed or which restaurants he likes or dislikes!! It's "bring your own drink", and all the times I've gone, everyone has always brought enough to share, and I would recommend doing the same. FYI - usually drinks are counted in the course count - so in the past, I've had Kombucha (homemade by Jay) or champagne - and that's included in the course count. You'll never leave hungry. It's just something to note when you're keeping track of which course you're on. For his current location in Hillcrest, parking is super easy and the view at night is really pretty with all the city lights in the distance. I'm definitely planning to go back in the future. If you're on the fence, I would definitely recommend going out on a limb and trying it once in the dining room and splurging for the chef's table on a special occasion especially if you're a foodie.

Our byob while watching Chef cook
Momo B.

Back for seconds and it did not disappoint! Did the chefs counter this time so we had lots of one on ne w Chef Jay, learning about new techniques and gadgets. Padre game this night so we could hear roars from the crowd and look down into the stadium, fun! This dinner: maple roasted butternut squash on baguette w feta; kiwi strawberry spinach salad w honey vinegrette; smoked duck breast w roasted balsamic Brussels, sous vide duck egg , truffle salt; cajun shrimp "taco" on sesame leaf; American wagyu w Jays special mashed potatoes, smoked carrots and broccolini; the best red velvet cake I've ever had, and of course his beignets and chicory coffee. Can't wait for the next time!

Victoria H.

This is an amazing experience to be able to have. The food is over the top. I have yet to come across a dish that I won't try and that I haven't enjoyed. The way the food is presented and the taste is amazing. I love how detailed explanation is given after each serving. The creativity behind the food is awesome to see and taste. The dinner experience gives an entertaining yet romantic feel for the night. Great as a date night or just to enjoy with some friends.

Breadless Po Boy
Eduardo C.

I went to Chez Jay last night and I want to say that the experience was amazing. We were server 8 courses. My favorite was the duck. Chef Jay also curated a playlist that set a great ambience He changes the menu every single time to I will he back soon!

Chef Jay up close as he plates one of the courses for the evening.
Brent A.

One of the best dining experiences I've ever had. Intimate, fun, delicious, creative, and memorable.

Enrique D.

It was such a fun and intimate experience. My fiancé and I went for a night out and we're definitely impressed. Every dish was better than the last and we can't wait to go back. It was also amazing to be at a table where everyone else if there for the same thing, eat some delicious food and have a great time. These were our favorite dishes and can't wait to go back!

Amanda L.

Well, I really don't think there are words to describe this experience! Some words that spring to mind are divine, impeccable, one-of-a-kind, and the best culinary experience I have had in all of San Diego. Every single morsel of food was expertly crafted, well designed and perfectly balanced to perfection. Chef Jay's innovative flavors and top notch techniques are some of the best I've tasted anywhere in the world. If you want to be blown away and want some of the best cuisine and one of the most amazing experiences in SoCal, get your tickets today! I guarantee that once people find out about this, we will be fighting for tickets in the future!

Signature dessert

The photos speak for themselves, so I will just say this was the best dining experience I have ever had in San Diego. Jay and his team craft such exceptional and unique meals with the highest level of care and expertise. Perfect for celebrating a special occasion, it was like having your own private celebrity chef for the night. Thank you for sharing your craft, Jay!

Anyone who appreciates fine dining and wants to experience the talent of an expert chef firsthand needs to book with Chez Jay. Over the 2.5 years I've been dining with him, i have never had the same dish twice. He has consistently blown me (and every one of my guests) away with his creativity and skill. Each course is expertly crafted using the best, fresh ingredients and presented with care. The intimate setting allows for a personal connection with the chef, who explains the inspiration behind each dish and answered any questions we had. The entire experience felt like a true culinary journey and is something you definitely don't want to miss out on.

Went to chef J pop up last night for the first time! The flavors and different textures was an amazing surprise how they all came together was amazing Only thing I didn't like was one of entree food was cold. A pre heating of the plate to keep food warm would of made a big difference or getting it served faster before getting cold. all the meat was very tender and delicious flavor

See all

4 years ago

Helpful 8
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 2
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 2
Oh no 0
Photo of Nina T.
0
14
14

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

4 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

4 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Jay F.

Jay F.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 1

3 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 2
Oh no 0
Photo of Brent A.
136
26
4

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Nicole P.
90
196
42

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Lee B.
0
6
10

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of Lizzy B.
289
13
8

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Aisa B.
241
3
1

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

4 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

Ask the Community - Chez Jay Pop Up

You might also consider

False Idol - Isn't it gorgeous?!

False Idol

4.4(1.4k reviews)
1.0 miLittle Italy
$$

My False Idol experience was memorable, albeit blurry toward the end! My boyfriend and I had been…read moreon a half-day tour beforehand, but I saw that False Idol was near our hotel and I insisted we stop in for a cocktail before calling it a night. I knew it was a speakeasy but he did not. I was trying to double-check on my phone that Craft & Commerce was the right restaurant its housed in (yes) when he tried to jet set off down the block "to keep looking" rather than listen to me. I yelled, "MOTHER!" by accident and then he did truly leave me hahaha. He resurfaced a few minutes later, and then we walked in. It was 5:15 at the time, so 15 minutes after opening. I had NO IDEA how popular this spot was, nor anything about its nation-wide reputation. I actually didn't know that until two days ago when a Yelp-friend at home here in Richmond, Virginia, exclaimed excitedly when I told her we stopped in. The host who greeted us was kind, informed us there had been a line to get in that day, but that they had one barrel left; we jumped on it of course. It was happy hour, so the first cocktail I ordered was dirt cheap at $9. It was the Imperial Hawaiian with gin, rum, lemon, pineapple, and orgeat. I really shouldn't have ordered a second drink after that one, but I did have the classic Saturn later on in the night and it was absurdly good! Definitely my favorite of the two. The moody tiki vibe was so cool and fun. They even had frogs you could play on the tables. We had some fun neighbors too, which livened up the experience even more. We had a great time and both walked out heavily buzzed. We were asleep by 8 that night, but it was worth it!

False idol is a tucked away Hawaiian themed speakeasy behind a restaurant. Reservations are…read morerequired so be mindful of that before going. Once inside seating is first come first served so the place is insanely crowded with people trying to get drinks. Service is a little confusing as the waiters will come up to you with a menu asking for your order instead of an order at the bar type of thing. Once we actually got a seat things were okay. The menu is mostly rum drinks since this is a rum bar however since I'm not the biggest fan I ordered the only thing with tequila on the menu. My drink was actually really good, it was refreshing, not too sweet or strong at all. I just wish there would be more variety.

Photos
False Idol - Tiki themed decor

Tiki themed decor

False Idol - Rum barrel

Rum barrel

False Idol - Back bar rum selection

See all

Back bar rum selection

Realm of the 52 Remedies - Clouds over Thailand

Realm of the 52 Remedies

4.4(868 reviews)
8.0 miKearny Mesa
$$

Realm of the 52 has been on my SD bucket list since I've moved here. So pretty hyped to get to…read morefinally go! Its located inside Common Theory. The entrance is pretty cool but I'll let you experience it :). The interior is definitely a vibe and intimate. Its definitely for smaller groups. They actually recommend to stay in your seat unless you need to use the restroom, which I appreciated. The service was all around very good! I got the Saigon Dreamer and it was so good! It had such a good mouth feels with the clarified milk. Highly recommend if its still on the menu. For food, I got the charred gai lan and the KFQ. The gai lan had a nice smoking taste and very tender. KFQuail was succulent and was fried to perfection. The only downside would be it was pretty expensive what you get. Will definitely be back for the cocktails but may get food somewhere.

A hidden speakeasy tucked inside Common Theory Brewery in Convoy -- such a fun concept. They have…read moretheir own parking lot, so no stress there. The entrance experience is really creative (I won't spoil it!), and our host was incredibly enthusiastic, setting the tone for the whole night. You do need a reservation, and they charge a per‑person deposit. There's also a time limit, which is a bit of a bummer, but understandable given how popular the place is. The space itself is gorgeous -- dark, cool, and atmospheric with tons to look at. Anime is projected on the wall, and the décor is super detailed and immersive. Each table has a QR code so you can browse their extensive drink menu. They do serve food, but our group of six came just for drinks. The cocktails are unique, beautiful, and definitely on the pricier side, but there's something for everyone. You can only order one drink per person at a time, and there can be a bit of a wait, but honestly the presentation makes it worth it. I tried the Kasato Maru and the Seoul City Hipster -- both vibrant, refreshing, and stunning. A cool, quiet, moody speakeasy with memorable drinks and a fun reveal. A great spot for a special night out.

Photos
Realm of the 52 Remedies - Sitting area

Sitting area

Realm of the 52 Remedies - Main dining area

Main dining area

Realm of the 52 Remedies - View from my table

See all

View from my table

Noble Experiment - Strawberry cucumber Gin cocktail

Noble Experiment

4.5(1.9k reviews)
0.2 miEast Village
$$

My brother-in-law and I were looking for places to drink....And we just wanted somewhere chill. We…read moreknew that any bar by tacos el gordo would be too wild for us, so we walked a couple blocks and approached Noble Experiment. I would say this was probably our highlight of our trip in San Diego. Garrick, the bartender there, was super accommodating. Not only was he and the other bartender were making damn good drinks, they would legit talk to you. The ambiance of the place is cool too. Felt like I was going inside some continental room like John Wick. Definitely my vibe and definitely coming back. But if you ever get Garrick as your bartender, you're in for a treat!

The Noble Experiment: 9/10…read more Aesthetic & Ambiance: 9.5 - This place gives "speakeasy haunted mansion" vibes. You walk into the barrels, down the mirrors, and into the skull room...IYKYK no less. The waits to get very deadly so make sure to put your name on the list early. Service: 9/10 The host was chill, and we had Quintin as our mixologist. There are no menus he told us, he just went off of our flavors, and palate, so I can't really speak for how to order the same drink. First drink: 9/10 (profile) Vodka bases with cucumber and strawberry. Second drink: 8.5/10 (profile) Smokey, deep old fashion. Overall a MUST-GO to if you're in the area stopping by!

Photos
Noble Experiment - Spiced banana flip! Delicious!

Spiced banana flip! Delicious!

Noble Experiment - Bartenders creations.

Bartenders creations.

Noble Experiment - Skull wall

See all

Skull wall

Oculto 477 - Tsunami -- THE BEST

Oculto 477

4.2(302 reviews)
3.5 miOld Town
$$

I loved how cozy this place was. My group of 4 sat at the bar. Super fun to watch the bartender…read morecraft the drinks. Very friendly staff and gave great recommendations. My favorite was definitely the Sloth. The marshmallow was out of this world. Pride is also good. Tastes like a healthy morning juice with a hint of alcohol. Lust was unique. Love how frothy and smooth it is with the egg whites. Also the hint of cheese! Surprisingly delicious. Gluttony was super smoky and loved the presentation.

The self-appointed king of speakeasies is back at it with another one. I stopped by Oculto 477 on a…read moreWednesday evening an hour before close. Located in Old Town San Diego, we had dinner at a restaurant within walking distance from Oculto. I parked for free on the street and made a reservation day of. It's a pretty small speakeasy so if you're going on a weekend, you're probably going to have to make a reservation in advance. Ambiance (4.5/5): Oculto has the seven deadly sins theme going which is pretty cool. I've been to a similar speakeasy in St. Pete, Florida. Once you arrive at the mezcal bar that houses Oculto, check in with the host, and he will bring you to a "confessional." There, you must confess one of the seven deadly sins before the door to the speakeasy is opened for you. Naturally, I went with "lust." Once you get inside, it's a charming speakeasy. Service (2.5/5): This is one of the areas that leaves a little to be desired. There was only one bartender working when I was there. Since speakeasies have elevated cocktails, service was quite slow. They definitely needed two bartenders there to speed up the process. They also have a two-drink minimum which I was annoyed about on principle. I often have multiple drinks at a bar, but I never feel like I'm forced to do it. Food (N/A): I'm not sure if they have food, I don't believe they do. Regardless, I was on a liquid diet. Drinks (4/5): Pretty interesting menu of craft cocktails. When I'm at a speakeasy, I look for unique drinks that have an interesting combination of ingredients and flavor profiles. In addition to a nice list, they also have a dealer's choice cocktail where you can tell the bartender what you're into and they will craft a custom cocktail for you based on your taste. Another cool thing about Oculto is that it's located next to the cemetery in Old Town. That adds to the spooky theme.

Photos
Oculto 477 - Seat at the bar

Seat at the bar

Oculto 477
Oculto 477 - La Llorona

See all

La Llorona

Young Blood - Single bathroom

Young Blood

4.5(360 reviews)
0.2 miEast Village
$$$

The self-appointed king of speakeasies is back at it for another one. I stopped by Young Blood for…read moresome drinks on a Wednesday night. Given the name, I was expecting this to be a vampire hangout or for some animal sacrifices of sorts to take place, but I'm happy to report that Young Blood is none of that. It's a top-notch speakeasy in line with some of the best I've been to. Ambiance (4.5/5): Young Blood is a relatively small speakeasy with some great vibes. To get there, walk inside Neighborhood and find your way. There are actually two speakeasies inside the same restaurant, with the other being The Noble Experiment. Young Blood seats 20-30 people or so. We made a reservation to be safe. If it's a weekend, it's probably a must. On a week day, who knows. It depends on how much you'd like to roll the dice. One of the coolest parts of the ambiance is that they have these huge six foot candles or so. One was right by us at the bar. My only complaint about the bar area? Back-less bar stools. I need some support for my old man back! Service (4/5): Overall, the service was quite good. There were two bartenders working that both served us. They were both attentive and pretty efficient at their jobs. They also hook you up with a little amuse bouche which is always much appreciated. Food (N/A): I was on a liquid diet on this visit. I don't think they have food anyway though I'm not 100%. Drinks (4.5/5): Think of this as a tasting menu for drinks. It's three courses. Meaning you're required to get three drinks. Normally, stuff like this annoys me, but the drinks are so well made here that I was cool with it. While Young Blood isn't cheap, given the sophistication of the cocktails, it's worth it. For your first course, you have your choice of eight or so cocktails. What's interesting is that they leave out the main spirit in the description purposefully. So as to not sway you to go for your poison of choice and instead focus on the flavor profile. It's rolling the dice a little bit but it worked out. My first course was gin-based which was right up my alley. The second course is dealer's choice. You tell the bartender about what liquors you like, flavor profiles, what to stay away from, etc. and they will craft a cocktail to your taste. Well done yet again. And finally, the third course is a "desert course" and you have your choice of four or so options. I went with the lemon meringue cocktail which tasted as good as it sounds. They even toast the meringue with a blow torch. Impressive. I've been to a lot of speakeasies in my day nationwide. Young Blood is in the top 10. Hands down.

If you're a fan of personalized crafted bespoke cocktails, I highly recommend coming to Young…read moreBlood! They're typically reservation-based but it doesn't hurt walking in. Young Blood is located behind the Neighborhood, and is one of two speakeasies here. We lucked out and was able to come as a walk-in on a Sunday. While waiting for our turn, we had a drink at their other speakeasy (the Noble Experiment, which I also highly recommend). Ambiance is sophisticated and elevated, with great mood lighting. Generally, the menu consists of 3 drinks - with one being a bespoke cocktail. Since we only stopped by, we opted for getting one drink. We wanted a different variation of the Manhattan and was asked several questions before concocting the drink (i.e. more bitter, floral, what whiskey do you typically like, etc.). The result? Magnificent! They used Nikka from the Barrel, chocolate bitters, along with other ingredients to provide a different depth in the Manhattan. Also had a pleasure to try the Floral+Juicy+Elegant cocktail from their first course menu. It consisted of juniper, lychee, grapefruit, bergamot, and sakura cherry blossom. They used sakura cherry blossom powder on the rim so you can change the drink profile as you take a sip. It's floral, refreshing, and light. Service was wonderful! You can tell that the bartenders really care about their craft. Remember to book a reservation in advance!

Photos
Young Blood - Carpeting

Carpeting

Young Blood - Entrance

Entrance

Young Blood - Behind this hidden doors is the speakeasy's

See all

Behind this hidden doors is the speakeasy's

Chez Jay Pop Up - speakeasies - Updated May 2026

Loading...
Loading...
Loading...