31ThirtyOne: Drew Deckman’s New Sustainable Restaurant in North Park
During a recent night out, I had the pleasure of dining at 31ThirtyOne by Deckman’s, the much-anticipated U.S. debut of Michelin-starred chef Drew Deckman. Known for his celebrated restaurants in Mexico’s Valle de Guadalupe, Deckman brings his passion for sustainability and refined Baja-Mediterranean cuisine to San Diego in a way that feels fresh, even groundbreaking, yet connected with the local landscape.
(photos credit: the3131.com)
How to Visit 31ThirtyOne
-
Website: the3131.com
-
Reservations: the3131.com/reservations
-
Address: 3131 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104
-
Hours: Dinner is served 5-10PM; view regularly updated hours on Google Business
Sustainable Fine Dining
First off, what I found most compelling about 31ThirtyOne is how it integrates sustainability into every aspect of the dining experience. Chef Drew Deckman’s zero-kilometer philosophy—sourcing ingredients exclusively from nearby farms, fisheries, and artisans—really shines here. The menu evolves daily, reflecting the freshest seasonal offerings from Southern California and Baja. Even the wine list celebrates regional producers, with standout selections from Valle de Guadalupe and the Central Coast.
This ethos extends beyond the plate. The restaurant donates 1% of its revenue to Zero Foodprint, supporting regenerative farming projects that help local farmers reduce their carbon footprint.
The Dining Experience at 31ThirtyOne
The four-course prix fixe menu at 31ThirtyOne ($145 per person at this time of writing) is an invitation into the mind of a rare culinary artist. Each course by Deckman offers a choice between several dishes, allowing diners to chart their own journey while following the chef’s vision. On my visit, I began with the Valley Center Tomato Variation, a dish that elevates tomatoes to something extraordinary with vibrant flavors and a delicate presentation.
For my second course, I chose the Baja Abalone White Bean Soup, a velvety bisque poured tableside and finished with chapulin oil. It was both comforting and complex, a perfect example of how Deckman marries bold, unique flavors together with a deft and subtle elegance. The Wolfe Ranch Quail followed as my entrée, served alongside chanterelle mushrooms and red kuri squash. Earthy yet refined, cooked to perfection, this one hit all the right notes.
Dessert was equally impressive. I opted for the Fig Almond Cake paired with fresh cheese ice cream, a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess that really felt like a poetic conclusion to the evening.
For those looking to enhance their experience further, I highly recommend the wine pairing, which thoughtfully complements each dish. Or explore the inventive cocktail menu featuring mezcal-forward creations like "The Coltrane," or opt for one of their refreshing mocktails.
How a Space Invites Connection
Let’s talk about the ambience for a minute. When I arrived at 31ThirtyOne, I immediately noticed its understated elegance. The three-story space, designed by San Diego-based Workind Studio, feels intimate yet sophisticated, featuring warm oak accents, stone details, and an open kitchen that makes diners part of the culinary process. Upstairs, the rooftop bar offers a more relaxed setting with lush greenery and views of North Park’s bustling streets below. It’s an ideal spot for pre-dinner cocktails or a nightcap under the stars.
The restaurant’s design mirrors its culinary philosophy: thoughtful, intentional, and grounded in its surroundings. It’s clearly a space where every detail was taken into account—a quality I deeply admire as someone who values craftsmanship in all forms.
Why North Park?
I'm excited to see that the San Diego food revolution, which has been building for years, appears to be here to stay. The high-profile opening of 31ThirtyOne makes perfect sense in North Park, given the neighborhood's creative and cultural energy.
Known for its eclectic mix of historic charm and contemporary innovation, North Park has become one of San Diego’s most exciting communities. It’s an area well worth exploring if you’re considering relocating here or simply looking for your next culinary stop. And it’s actually a perfect fit, I think, for Chef Deckman’s vision of sustainable fine dining.
For those interested in learning more about Rancho Santa Fe, Del Mar, La Jolla, and other areas in San Diego County, my City Guides offer a local expert’s perspective on what makes each area unique.
Indulge in Luxury, One Bite at a Time
Dining at 31ThirtyOne is an experience that asks you to slow down, savor each bite, and connect with the land and people who make it all possible. If you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply treat yourself for an evening, I don’t think you will be disappointed choosing 31ThirtyOne. There’s always something to do in the North Park area as well, before and after your meal.
As someone who appreciates both fine dining and sustainable living, I can’t recommend 31ThirtyOne enough.
To learn more about dining, travel, local events, and trends in luxury lifestyles, visit my blog. And don't forget to subscribe to my newsletter for updates on luxury real estate and San Diego's best-kept secrets! Talk soon.
