The nearly 7,000 visitors coming for the American Society of Association Executives & The Center for Association Leadership Annual Meeting and Exposition, scheduled for Aug. 16 – 19, will be treated to a new dining experience as the San Diego Convention Center opens Tides, a new 130-seat restaurant this week. Tides is located at the west end of the bayside facility, where attendees can also relax with a cocktail in the adjacent 36-seat bar. “We wanted to provide attendees with an attractive, appealing and convenient option besides a walk-up concession, which is standard in most facilities,” said John Vingas, vice president of catering for Centerplate, the Convention Center’s food and beverage provider. Themed for San Diego’s sparkling blue waterfront location, Tides’ décor incorporates glass artwork by Dale Chihuly. Known for his unique glass artistry, Chihuly has created many well-known series of works, among them “Seaforms,” "Baskets," and "Persians." Over 200 museum collections worldwide display his work. “Having a dedicated dining area allows us to provide better service and to prepare distinguished foods with a regional flair that’s cooked fresh in an inviting environment,” said Jeff Leidy, executive chef and assistant general manager for Centerplate. The diverse menu will offer everything from gourmet sandwiches for attendees on the run to customized items for those with more time. Many ingredients are locally grown and include meats from livestock that has been raised humanely without growth hormones, ensuring dishes are fresh and flavorful. Open for breakfast and lunch, Tides’ hours of operation will be built around event activity. The Convention Center’s staff will work closely with clients to accommodate the specific needs of each meeting planner. The San Diego Convention Center Corporation is a public benefit corporation created by the City of San Diego. The Corporation is exclusively responsible for marketing, managing and operating the San Diego Convention Center. In its 19-year history, the Center has generated nearly $15.2 billion in economic impact, over $309.8 million in tax revenues and continues to serve as San Diego’s premier gathering place.
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