The Realm of 52 Remedies- let's pretend we're crazy rich

Hi everyone! Today, I'm very excited to share my experience with one of San Diego's hottest speakeasies- The Realm of 52 Remedies!! This gorgeous, upscale Asian-inspired bar opened approximately a year ago and is nestled within Common Theory in Kearny Mesa. I can still remember the day they announced their opening- I was one of the hundreds calling in trying to get a reservation. Luckily I was able to sell my soul in exchange for an earlier seating and made it in. I recently visited again to see if anything has changed and to make the promo video below:

As you can see, SO much work was put into designing this space (about two years I believe?) and boy does it show. When you step into Common Theory off the street (most likely cursing at the terrible street parking) and ushered into the holding room, you're instantly transported into another world. As you look around, you take notice of the the beautiful herbs that line the wall. You try to take videos and discover that your phone is malfunctioning, only to be told that the light frequencies of the room tends to have this effect on camera phones (you can see this in my video). You secretly wonder if they did this on purpose (just kidding!). After that, you are guided through a wall of hanging flowers, some of which smack you in the face. Then, a narrow passageway that might give you mild claustrophobia, but you're too distracted by the beautiful artwork to care. Then finally, the big reveal: a stunning, lush oasis of greens, golds and browns. It's hard to describe the beauty of the space; you'll simply have to experience it for yourself. Trust me when I say you'll be amazed. While oozing grandness and elegance, the space is also cozy. The layout is also incredibly practical.

You might have noticed that I haven't spoken very much about the drinks, and there is a reason for that. To be honest with you, I personally didn't really care for them. The cocktail menu is incredibly ambitious, incorporating ingredients such as salted cream cheese, green tea, shitake mushroom cordial, Korean rice syrup, etc. While they sounded amazing on paper, the ingredients didn't quite come together for me and tasted very flat/ one noted. For $15, I expected more. Others might have different opinions, but this is mine. They didn't taste bad per se, just a bit bland.

To summarize, 52 remedies is definitely a lovely place to go if you're looking to wow someone (someone visiting or a date maybe) or if you'd like to dress up with your girls and lounge somewhere cool and hip. I wouldn't come back solely for the drinks, but for the ambiance, there isn't quite anything like it in all of San Diego. Cheers!