Jamul Casino Resort recognized across multiple categories in 2025 San Diego Reader Poll

California's Jamul Casino Resort has secured several honors in the 2025 San Diego Union-Tribune Readers Poll, with recognitions across hospitality, dining, and entertainment categories.

The property’s recent expansion, including the debut of its hotel tower, contributed to its designation as Best San Diego Hotel and Best Staycation Location. The new tower marks a key development for the East County casino-resort, operated by the Jamul Indian Village of California.

Tony Gwynn’s Sports Pub, located on-site, was named Best Sports Bar and recognized for offering the Best Burger. Jesse Serrano received the Best Bartender award, and Laura Donathan was named Best Restaurant Server.

Prime Cut Steakhouse & Seafood earned Best Romantic Restaurant and was listed as a San Diego Favorite in the Steakhouse and Casino Dining categories. Chef Greg Coyle was named a Favorite Chef, and Paris Thammavong was recognized as a Favorite Server.

Other notable dining awards include:

• Loft 94: Best Pho/Noodle House and Best Sushi
• Emerald Chinese Cuisine: Recognized as a San Diego Favorite for Chinese Cuisine
• The Rooftop: Awarded Best Place to Get Married and Best Scenic Spot

Lincoln Williams of Marketplace was also named Best Chef, and Victor Hughes of the High Limit Bar was selected as a Favorite Bartender.

The casino’s JIVe Lounge was named Best Entertainment Venue and Favorite Live Music Venue (Under 3,000 People). Known for featuring local DJs and bands, the venue also received recognition for its beverage team. Bartender Rachel Serrano was named a San Diego Favorite Bartender, and Catherine Evans was listed as a Favorite Server.

Jamul Casino Resort was recognized as a San Diego Favorite in the Local Casino, Loosest Slots, and Place to Work categories, further solidifying its position in the region’s competitive gaming and hospitality sector.

The awards reflect selections by San Diego Union-Tribune readers across multiple service categories. The resort’s management said the recognitions reflect the efforts of the broader Jamul Casino Resort team, including culinary, hospitality, and gaming staff.