Pali Wine Co. brings the Central Coast to Hillcrest

Julie Bogen

Exterior of Pali Wine Co. storefront with a dark blue sign, brown wood siding, string lights, and outdoor seating under a clear sky; leafless trees frame the scene. — Delicious wine. Photo: Courtesy of Kathryn Caudle

Get your buzz on: Pali Wine Co. is open on University Avenue with killer beverages, bites and ambience to boot.

Why it matters: This is a new beginning for the second-generation family business, which shuttered its 10-year-old Little Italy location in July after the landlord asked for nearly double the rent.

The vibe: Approachable yet sophisticated, with midcentury woven chairs, wood tables, exposed beams and a concrete-like quartz bar straddling the indoors and outdoors.

There's also a large industrial kitchen window for watching chef Sable-Tanya Wentwoord in action.
It's "warmer, more elevated," Pali Wine Co. director of winemaking operations Aaron Walker told Axios of the new digs.

What to try: On a warm summer evening, we loved the 2025 Pét Pink sparkling rosé and Wild Series orange wine on tap.

Walker also poured an impromptu taste of the 2021 Pali Vineyard Blanc de Blancs sparkling chardonnay, which was bright, tart and delicious.
If you're looking for a red, the vineyard is known for its pinot noir.

The shaved roast beef was just what the doctor ordered, especially several tastings in.

🍦 In the next few weeks, Pali plans to add more food, soft-serve, wine-based drinks and mocktails, plus an official happy hour.

Stop by and pull up a chair Wednesday through Friday from 2–10pm, Saturday from noon until 10pm and Sunday from noon until 9pm.

Find them at 1440 University Ave.

Editor's note: This story has been corrected to show Pali Wine Co.'s address is 1440 University Ave. (not 1140 University Ave.).

Add Axios on Google

Pali Wine Co. brings the Central Coast to Hillcrest

More San Diego stories