Take a walk down Memory Lane: Celebrating the Highlights of 2025

Beloved Milton’s Delicatessen Transitions to New Ownership

Represented BUYER & SELLER

After 40 years of serving matzo ball soup, towering sandwiches, and countless memories, Milton’s Delicatessen is officially beginning a new chapter. We’re excited to share that Milton’s has been acquired by new owners who are deeply committed to carrying this treasured Del Mar tradition forward. The name, the spirit, and the flavors that made Milton’s a community favorite will stay exactly where they belong — right at the center of the experience. Guests can also look forward to thoughtful improvements designed to refresh and elevate the restaurant, while respecting its timeless charm.

Location Matters is grateful to have guided this landmark transaction. Here’s to Milton’s next 40 years!

Angry Chickz Expands Aggressively Across California

Represented TENANT

Throughout the year, Angry Chickz experienced exceptional growth, securing a dozen new leases across California—including Watsonville, Santa Clarita, Santa Maria, Rocklin, Chino, Natomas, Ontario, Merced, Riverside, and Palmdale. The brand also celebrated openings in Victorville, La Quinta, Ventura, Fremont and Elk Grove as part of its aggressive expansion push. Known for Nashville-style hot chicken and customizable spice levels, Angry Chickz continues its rapid ascent.

Em Coffee House Expands to Mission Valley

Represented TENANT

This year, Em Coffee House continued its rapid expansion with an 835 SF lease at The Valley in Mission Valley. Following their Mira Mesa opening and upcoming Kearny Mesa debut, the brand positioned itself within a major redevelopment anchored by Target, AMC, Nordstrom Rack, and Michael’s. Em’s bold, Asian-inspired flavors and signature Saigon slow-drip coffee continue to attract a devoted customer base.

Creative Office Building in Mission Hills Sells for $3.2M

Represented BUYER & SELLER

In late spring, Location Matters completed the sale of 4010 Goldfinch St. in Mission Hills for $3,200,000 in an all-cash transaction. The 5,050 SF creative office building featured onsite parking, flexible layouts, and walkable access to one of San Diego’s most desirable neighborhoods. The sale underscored strong investor confidence in Mission Hills.

Ike’s Love & Sandwiches Adds New Stores in Corona, Escondido & Mission Valley

Represented TENANT

During the year, Ike’s Love & Sandwiches strengthened its regional footprint with two new lease signings in Corona and Escondido, while also celebrating the grand opening of its Mission Valley location. The 1,200 SF Bedford Marketplace space and the 1,279 SF Escondido Promenade location aligned with the brand’s strategy of targeting high-traffic trade areas. Famous for its Dutch Crunch bread and Dirty Sauce, Ike’s continues expanding with strong momentum across Southern California.

SALTVAULT Opens New Studio in Little Italy

Represented TENANT

In June, SALTVAULT secured a 10-year lease for a 2,161 SF studio at Savina by Bosa Development, taking over the former Row House location in Little Italy. Their infrared-heated, mat-based Pilates workouts—known for their strong community following—added a high-intensity fitness option to the neighborhood. SALTVAULT successfully opened its new Little Italy studio in 2025, expanding its presence across San Diego.

Harland Brewing Expands with New Del Sur Brewpub

Represented TENANT

This August, Harland Brewing expanded into Del Sur Town Center with a 10-year lease for a 3,400 SF full-service restaurant space. The brewpub concept, supported by an updated food menu and beloved beers like the Japanese Lager and Hazy IPA, will introduce a warm, neighborhood-focused dining destination once open. The new location will blend Harland’s clean branding with an elevated but accessible experience.

Fish Shop Continues Growth with New Oceanside Location

Represented LANDLORD & TENANT

Also this year, Fish Shop grew its footprint with a 10-year lease for a 2,945 SF site at 236 S. Coast Highway in Downtown Oceanside. With standout architecture, prime corner visibility, and an expansive patio, this fourth location followed the success of their Pacific Beach, Point Loma, and Encinitas stores. The coastal favorite will bring its customizable, high-quality seafood to this standout Oceanside corner once open.

Two Local Concepts Sign New Leases in Carlsbad Village

Represented LANDLORD & TENANTS

In March, two exciting local concepts signed long-term leases at 325 Carlsbad Village Dr. Always Hungry Grocery & Goods committed to a 1,627 SF space, bringing their curated selection of local produce, artisanal foods, and pantry staples to the Village. Adjacent to them, Little Fox Cups & Cones took a 1,263 SF space, expanding their scratch-made ice cream operation from South Oceanside. Both businesses are poised to bring new vibrancy to Carlsbad Village once they open.

Tiger Hospitality Set to Revive the Little Italy Food Hall

Represented LANDLORD

During the Summer, Tiger Hospitality signed a lease for the revitalized 4,685 SF former Little Italy Food Hall at Piazza della Famiglia. The highly anticipated relaunch will feature Cosmos Burger, Lobster Lab, La Vida, daily fresh pasta, Detroit-style pizza, dessert kiosks, and a BASILE-designed indoor-outdoor bar. The renewed space is set to become a major neighborhood draw in one of San Diego’s most vibrant pedestrian plazas.

Tabac+ Opens Second Location in Little Italy

Represented TENANT

Tabac+ officially expanded its footprint in 2025 with the opening of its second location in the heart of Little Italy at 2215 Kettner Blvd. The restaurant secured a 1,500 SF space on a 3,221 SF lot under a 10-year lease, transforming the property into a striking new destination. The space was completely reimagined to include a refined interior, along with a lush outdoor garden patio and back bar that elevate the guest experience. Known for its modern take on traditional Turkish cuisine, Tabac+ also features an extensive Turkish-style coffee and beverage program, as well as a premium hookah experience exclusively offered on the outdoor patio.

Odie’s Pizza Company Opens After Acquisition in Oceanside

Represented BUYER & SELLER

Earlier in the year, the sale of Sublime Alehouse at 121 North Cleveland St. in Oceanside closed, making way for Odie’s Pizza Company—a new concept from San Diego native Odie O’Connor and Blacktop Restaurant Group. Blending New York-style and Neapolitan sourdough techniques with premium ingredients, Odie’s officially opened its doors in 2025 and quickly became a welcome neighborhood addition.

Let’s make next year a success