The almost open Setai San Diego made a name change December 22, to Sè San Diego. The Asian word Sè loosely translates to color, quality, sensuality and physical attraction which the owners felt better defines the hotel and separates it from its sister Setai in Miami (owned by Lehman Brothers). The idea is to brand the hotel and future properties in other cities (think Sè Las Vegas and you get the idea). The hotel is in its soft opening and its signature restaurant Suite & Tender Bar, Lounge & Restaurant (a cute play on words, but will you think steak?) hopes to be open by Sunday, December 28. Christopher Lee, from New York where he garnered two Michelin stars for Gilt, is the consulting chef and Bill Boyle is the executive chef for the mostly steak, raw bar and seafood menu. 1047 Fifth Ave., San Diego., 619-515-3000.
Bet they wish they could pick the whole thing up and move it to Las Vegas – I don’t have high hopes for it here!
50-50 this place will be finished (or a marriot) by end of 2009.