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A star is reborn in La Jolla, a new sunset penthouse perch debuts, plus other hotel news on San Diego's scene BY GILLIAN FLYNN Suite Life Sigh. The Whaling Bar at La Valencia Hotel has retained its icon status. It's thanks to the long-awaited revival by LA's award-winning Schoos Design in partnership with SDCM. "We felt trying to rebuild the past was a fool's errand and decided to bring back the 'feel' and vibe of the old Whaling Bar," says SDCM Owner and Operator Matt Spencer. Mission accomplished. The intimate bar and restaurant oozes with new- world glamor. On a recent night, guests sipped "Pink Royales" in down-filled emerald booths flanked by the beloved 1940s mural, The Whale's Last Stand. The bar first opened in 1949, playing host to notable regulars, including Theodor Geisel (Dr. Seuss), novelist Raymond Chandler, and Gregory Peck, founder of the La Jolla Playhouse. Schoos has created some of the most talked-about hospitality venues worldwide, from Tao Las Vegas to the Huntley Hotel in Santa Monica. Locally, the firm designed Puesto and Bottega Americano. ranchandcoast.com 70 MAY 2024 RANCH & COAST MAGAZINE