by Jasmine Rios

Created on: March 21, 2009

The Pearl in Point Loma is a rare find as its name suggests. Since it opened in 2007, travelers and locals, have discovered via online sources and word of mouth, that the moderately priced Pearl Hotel, nestled in the beautiful bayside community, is a choice destination for great food, ambiance, and entertainment. Entrepreneur, Gregory Strangman of Live.Work. Play. Group Inc. (L.W. P. Group) created a pearl of a hotel by revamping a 60s landmark, formerly the Sportsman's Lodge, into a fashionable boutique establishment with award-winning, custom designed retro decor. The Pearl follows a "Down to Earth, Up with Style" motto, much like Strangman's other boutique inspired real estate developments in San Diego.

Strangman shares, "People are looking for an alternative so things at the Pearl are a little more unique." Every Wednesday at 8pm, friends, couples, and groups of all ages are drawn to the Pearl's signature event, "Dive-In" movies. The intimate poolside lounge transforms into a panache outdoor movie theatre that caters to your entertainment likings and your taste buds. At the Pearl, you can swim, eat, and drink, all while you catch a good flick. Films such as the stylish "Casino Royale," the light-hearted "Ratatouille," and irreverent "Pulp Fiction" can be viewed on the 10' x 13' movie screen above the pearl shaped salt water pool. "The guests, they love the salt water pool," says Strangman. "It's great for your skin, better for the environment, and it adds some personality that sets us apart from everybody."

All guests of the Pearl are welcome to enjoy the film and pool free of charge with any food or drink order. The Pearl offers a full-bar with creative concoctions as the Helluh! and Thai'd Down and wines from around the world. "I wanted the menu to feel global, but also kind of local. We have a small seasonal menu that has everything and each dish is under $20. We also have a great hamburger. It's a big seller.
I'll put our hamburger up against any hamburger in the city and we're gonna win. Our chef and sous chef are very prideful of the food they put out."

The poolside lounge has ample seating and the restaurant's main dining area offers a great view of the movie screen. Carrying on light conversation during the film is perfectly acceptable - guests and staff are all easy going. If you've had too many Helluh's to drink and aren't up to driving home, take advantage of the $79/night "Play and Stay" rate that kicks in at midnight. Restaurant specials on different

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