A Fresh Addition to Grand Avenue

Downtown Escondido's dining landscape continues to evolve with the arrival of Upper East, a full-service gastropub now open at 155 E. Grand Avenue. From the experienced team behind Knotty Barrel Gastropub in Rancho Peñasquitos, this new establishment aims to become the go-to gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

Something for Everyone

Upper East strikes a careful balance between family-friendly dining and evening entertainment. During the day, the restaurant welcomes parents with children and even four-legged family members on the patio. As evening approaches, the space transforms into a lively spot for craft cocktails and late-night bites, appealing to a diverse crowd seeking quality food and drinks.

Menu Highlights

The kitchen draws inspiration from American comfort food traditions while incorporating global influences. Standout offerings include fresh ahi poke, slow-braised carnitas sandwiches, and classic fish and chips. The burger program features carefully sourced beef with creative topping combinations, while the flatbread selection offers something for every palate.

Local Focus at the Bar

The bar program emphasizes San Diego's thriving craft beer scene with 20 rotating taps featuring mostly local breweries. Cocktail enthusiasts will find both timeless classics and signature creations, including the house Old Fashioned made with Four Roses bourbon and Italian orange liqueur. The wine list and house-made syrups round out the beverage offerings.

Part of Escondido's Growth

Upper East arrives at an exciting time for downtown Escondido, joining other new businesses in the Grand Avenue corridor. The owners see parallels between today's Escondido and North Park's early development, recognizing the potential for this community to become a dining destination in its own right.