San Diego AANHPI-Owned Meeting Services & Businesses
San Diego, America's Brightest City, shines even brighter through its diverse AANHPI-owned businesses serving the meetings and events industry. From authentic caterers and innovative event services to cultural institutions and the vibrant Convoy district, event professionals can create meaningful conference experiences that celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander heritage. Discover how San Diego's commitment to inclusive tourism translates into exceptional venues and services for your next convention.
Social Artistry
Social Artistry was founded with a mission to spark meaningful cultural change through creative, community-driven events. As social artists, they harness the power of art to collaborate with local leaders and organizations, using creativity as a tool for connection, empowerment, and transformation. Their vision is to build lasting economic and cultural impact by designing events and experiences that inspire, uplift, and unite communities.
> Learn more about Social Artistry
Thomas Bui Lifestyle
Based in San Diego with a satellite office in San Francisco, Thomas Bui Lifestyle is a full-service production company specializing in luxury weddings, social affairs, and corporate events. Known for their meticulous attention to detail, Thomas and his team bring each client's vision, personality, and style to life—whether crafting intimate, heartfelt gatherings or orchestrating multi-day celebrations that demand seamless logistics. Thomas developed his suave aesthetic and appreciation for grace through his unique journey as a child. Born in Vietnam, he was deeply influenced by the elegance of cultural traditions and the resilience of his upbringing—elements that now shape the warmth and refinement of every event he creates. With a commitment to professionalism, he and his team build trust through clear communication, curated visual design concepts, and thoughtful venue and vendor recommendations.
Animae
Where: 969 Pacific Highway, San Diego, CA 92101
Nestled in the heart of Marina District, Brian Malarkey's ANIMAE serves up Japan's finest A5 wagyu beef alongside an Asian-inspired menu crafted by Executive Chef Tara Monsod, drawing influences from every corner of the Far East. With a focus on the coal-fired oven and Japanese robata grill, Chef Tara's dishes showcase globally sourced ingredients that perfectly complement the restaurant's sophisticated atmosphere. ANIMAE isn't just a place to dine—it's a fashion-forward experience, where guests are encouraged to dress their best, capture stunning photos, and immerse themselves in the elegance of the space.
Crab Hut
With locations in Kearny Mesa, Downtown, and Mira Mesa, Crab Hut started in Houston, where the owners embraced Southern seafood boils and Cajun flavors. Dedicated to high-quality, locally sourced seafood, Crab Hut emphasizes fresh, San Diego-grown ingredients. Inspired by their parents' commitment to their own Chinese/Vietnamese restaurant, the owners bring that same dedication to every location. Whether you're with family, friends, or coworkers, Crab Hut is all about good food, great company, and making lasting memories.
Common Theory / Realm Of The 52 Remedies
Located in Convoy and Otay Ranch, Common Theory seamlessly blends its Korean-Chinese-Mexican-American heritage into its ambiance, food, and drinks, offering a true reflection of what it means to be Californian. The menu showcases a fusion of flavors that tell the story of this unique cultural background. In addition, the bar features a rotating selection of over 30 craft beers on tap, sourced from top breweries in San Diego County, California, and across the U.S. Common Theory in Convoy is also home to the speakeasy Realm of the 52 remedies. The Realm serves cocktails and small plates inspired by the flavors, unique ingredients, and artistry of the Far East.
> Learn more about Common Theory / Realm Of The 52 Remedies
Flour Atelier
Flour Atelier is a boutique modern bakery that brings together the rich flavors of the Philippines and Japan, offering a unique fusion of Asian-inspired treats. Specializing in expertly crafted pastries, cakes, and confections, the bakery blends traditional ingredients with contemporary techniques to create a one-of-a-kind experience. Each item is thoughtfully made to showcase the vibrant and diverse culinary influences from both cultures, offering a fresh take on beloved classics. Whether you're craving a sweet indulgence or a savory bite, Flour Atelier is dedicated to delighting customers with every bite.
> Learn more about Flour Atelier
Kingfisher
Where: 2469 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92102
Drawing inspiration from the rich culinary heritage of Vietnam, Kingfisher offers a contemporary twist on authentic Vietnamese French fusion, infused with California sensibility. Located in the historic Golden Hill neighborhood, the restaurant pairs its thoughtfully crafted dishes with an elevated craft cocktail program. Kingfisher aims to create an exciting blend of soulful, intricate flavors from traditional Vietnamese ingredients, offering guests a unique dining experience that honors the past while embracing the future.
Le Charcuterie Bar
Where: 499 Tenth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Le Charcuterie Bar is distinctive and bold—a cheese shop with a twist! In addition to offering a curated selection of artisanal cheeses and charcuterie, the shop features a rotating list of 25 wines from around the world. Guests can enjoy a glass or bottle of wine paired with a perfectly crafted board, either in the shop or take gourmet cheeses, trays, and cured meats to go. The shop also offers an assortment of premium olive oils, vinegars, and other cheese-related essentials for retail purchase, allowing customers to elevate their culinary experience at home.
> Learn more about Le Charcuterie Bar
Beshockramen
With locations in San Diego, Carlsbad, and Japan, Beshock has become the ultimate ramen destination since 2016, winning hearts with some of the best ramen in San Diego. Their commitment to authentic Japanese flavors has earned them a loyal following, and they're all about offering a dining experience that fits perfectly into the fast-paced lives of San Diegans—deliciously satisfying yet light. Co-founders Kumi Ito, Ayaka Ito, and Masaki Yamauchi scoured Japan and the U.S. to perfect their craft, while Executive Chef Yoshiaki Tsuji handpicks the finest pork and chicken bones, simmering them for over 10 hours with local veggies and traditional seasonings to create the bold, umami-packed Tonkotsu broth.
> Learn more about Beshockramen
Kalei's
Where: 9926-F Carmel Mountain Road, San Diego, CA 92129
Chef Andy Mangiduyos, a culinary entrepreneur with a passion for Pacific Rim cuisine, grew up on Maui and honed his skills at top resorts in Hawaii and California before launching his catering business in 2018. At Kalei's Kitchenette, Chef Andy and his team bring the aloha spirit to every event, serving homey, delicious food made with the freshest ingredients. Their goal is to create memorable events and build lasting relationships based on trust, reliability, and excellence.
Lia's Lumpia
Where: 2219 Logan Ave, San Diego, CA 92113
Lia's Lumpia, a Filipino food truck turned brick-and-mortar restaurant in Barrio Logan, is celebrated for its modern Filipino fusion lumpia and street food, with a recent focus on Soul Food LUMPIA. Owners Spencer and Lia draw inspiration from their family's rich legacy in the food industry, as well as Spencer's cultural influences from his grandparents in Manila, blending traditional flavors with creative twists.
> Learn more about Lia's Lumpia
Mostra Coffee
With multiple locations across San Diego, including 4s Ranch, Bankers Hill, Carmel Mountain Ranch, Hillcrest, Torrey Pines, and Mira Mesa, Mostra was born from a desire to make a positive impact—and has since grown into a beloved local business. But Mostra is more than just coffee—it's about the people. From the farmers who grow it to the baristas who serve it and the customers who enjoy it, it's a celebration of community. Mostra is dedicated to showing up, standing for something meaningful, and leaving the world better than they found it.
> Learn more about Mostra Coffee
Rikka Fika
Where: 810 13th Street, San Diego, CA 92101
Rikka Fika is a cozy communal cafe bathed in soft, heartwarming sunlight, evoking the peaceful feeling of an early summer day. We invite our guests to take a break from their daily routines—whether to reconnect with friends, or simply enjoy some time to themselves. Our menu features carefully crafted coffee and matcha drinks, alongside a rotating selection of pourovers and specialty beans sourced from international roasters. We also offer small-batch, made-from-scratch baked goods, created in-house with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Asian Business Association
Where: 2004 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
Founded in 1990, the Asian Business Association San Diego (ABASD) advocates for over 30,000 Asian Pacific Islander (API)-owned businesses across San Diego County. ABASD is dedicated to fostering sustainable communities through inclusive economic development and cultivating a qualified, diverse workforce. As a key partner in America's Small Business Development Center (SBDC) network and one of the region's largest ethnic business associations, ABASD provides educational workshops, technical assistance, business mentorship, and access to capital for small businesses, minority-owned enterprises, entrepreneurs, and startups—especially in underserved communities.
> Learn more about Asian Business Association
Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum
Where: 2215 Pan American Rd E, San Diego, CA 92101
A living, breathing work of art, the Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum (JFGM) represents the bond of friendship between San Diego and our sister city, Yokohama. The garden includes meticulous stone designs, calming koi ponds, delightful water features, traditional architectural structures and breathtaking vistas. Educational programs, exhibits, festivals and horticultural classes enhance and deepen visitors' appreciation for Japanese culture.
> Learn more about Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum
First United Methodist Church Of San Diego
Where: 2111 Camino del Rio S, San Diego, CA 92108
First United Methodist Church of San Diego (FUMCSD) is an LGBTQIA+ affirming church, and a Reconciling Congregation committed to radical love and divine justice for all of God's people. Embracing individuals of all ages, races, orientations, genders, abilities, and religious beliefs, FUMCSD strives to create an inclusive and supportive community where everyone is valued and celebrated.
> Learn more about First United Methodist Church Of San Diego
San Diego Chinese Historical Society & Museum
Where: 404 Third Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
The San Diego Chinese Historical Society and Museum's mission is to educate and inspire by preserving and celebrating the richness of Chinese history, art, and culture, as well as the contributions of Chinese Americans.
> Learn more about San Diego Chinese Historical Society & Museum
Annual Pacific Islander Festival
The Pacific Islander Festival Association (PIFA) is a non-profit corporation composed of members from all diversities, without limit to the indigenous people of Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia. PIFA is the longest running event attracting the biggest Native Hawaiian Polynesian Indigenous (NHPI) audience in the US. With an event size such as this, community and services-based organizations have unmatched opportunities to engage attendees. Many of our participants, including dignitaries, entertainers, vendors, and attendees, travel from all over the country to participate in this amazing festival. With such an abundance of participants, this weekend is a rich contributor to the attraction and tourism industry of the City of San Diego.
> Learn more about Annual Pacific Islander Festival
Lunar New Year in San Diego
From the vibrant communities of San Diego's Convoy Asian Cultural District to the region's world-class attractions and diverse neighborhoods, San Diego celebrates Lunar New Year with a myriad of inviting activities and happenings.
> Learn more about Lunar New Year Celebrations
San Diego Asian Film Festival
The San Diego Asian Film Festival (SDAFF) is San Diego's premier film showcase of Asian American and international cinema. Founded in 2000, the festival has grown to become the largest exhibition of Asian cinema in the western United States, and has showcased everything from future classics like Bong Joon-ho's Memories of Murder (US Premiere) to luminary independent work like Patrick Wang's award-winning In the Family (North American Premiere). Each year, the festival brings West Coast, North American, and World premieres of films from around the world to San Diego and gives audiences unique opportunities to discover international cinema.
Ocean Park Inn
Where: 710 Grand Avenue, San Diego, CA 92109
Family-owned since 1967, Ocean Park Inn is a beloved San Diego hotel that captures the spirit of its vibrant beachside community—home to locals, college students, and free-spirited creatives alike. Perfectly positioned to be a favorite for a new generation, the hotel features fully renovated beachside suites, with select rooms offering kitchenettes for added convenience. Whether you're a family, a business traveler on an extended stay, or simply someone who loves the comforts of home, dining in is a breeze. Each room comes with a private patio or balcony, offering stunning views of the pool or ocean.
> Learn more about Ocean Park Inn
Earth Fan Surf
This San Diego sustainable surfboard company provides 100% Eco-friendly, alternative wooden surf craft called Paepo'o bodyboards, from the ancient Hawaiians and Itago-Nori belly boards, from the ancient Japanese.
We're here to help
Start planning your next meeting, event or conference with the help of our knowledgeable destination experts. The San Diego Tourism Authority team not only has a comprehensive understanding of the destination but also the extensive in-market relationships to ensure that you find the right venue at the right price. Even better, all our services are free, including customized virtual or in-person site visits and our extensive lead system, which lets us compare your specific needs with the offerings at more than 135 San Diego conference hotels. Now more than ever, our team is your partner in planning a successful and safe event or conference in San Diego. Call 877-9SDMeet (877-973-6338), email [email protected] or complete an RFP online.