Building on a strong reputation thanks to Chef Eduardo Baeza, owner Alberto
Mestre expanded his business in 2001 after acquiring the available space next
to Candelas Restaurant. In February of that year, he was introduced to Hugh
Herrera, an avid record collector and DJ from Los Angeles . By May, they embarked
on a venture to present the residents and visitors of San Diego with a complete
experience unique to the region.
This experience translated, really, into a lifestyle. The lifestyle revolved
around the notion of enjoying a world-class meal, being treated like royalty while doing
so, and having the option of listening and dancing to music in a lounge to
cap the evening. While this paints an image of a the entire Candelas' story,
the lounge is clearly its own entity as it exists in harmony with the restaurant.
Lounge Candelas' mission is to introduce open minded patrons to the underground
spirit of a vastly under-appreciated music culture, and to educate them about
an alternative music direction along the way. Considering the restaurant strives
to dazzle its customers with extraordinary food and service, it makes a great deal of sense
to do the same musically. The lounge compliments the restaurant to the utmost.
If you think about the quiet off-beat location of Candelas, the word-of-mouth
appeal, and the non-existent marketing effort, the aim for a different
approach to a night out becomes even more apparent to all of us. It's not for everyone, and that's okay.
Since May 5th, 2001, the lounge has built a steadfast following, basically a group
of staunch supporters who believe in a divergent path away from the mainstream.
It's the lifestyle Alberto had envisioned a few years ago, and it's what Hugh
communicated with his selection of music up until his departure.
In August, 2006, Hugh left Candelas after 5 1/2 years as acting music selector. He
compiled and mixed both Lounge Candelas volumes. Taking his place is local favorite house
music DJ, Duane. This begins a new era for Candelas; building on the legacy Hugh created.
Welcome to Lounge Candelas!