Rancho Bernardo Inn opened its doors with 30 rooms in 1963. Room rates started at $8, an all-you-can-eat fish fry at Veranda was $1.50 and guests were invited in to see ‘color television.’ The resort course opened with 18 championship holes designed by William Bell, architect of both Torrey Pines and La Jolla Country Club. The resort sought to provide its guests with casual elegance and this philosophy allowed the Inn to become a staple in North County San Diego.  

 

The resort gained notoriety on a national level by hosting the PGA San Diego Open in 1964. Art Wall won with a score of 274 and a purse of $30,000. The LPGA Honda Civic Classic was hosted from 1978 to 1980. In 1978, Sally Little won the tournament with a score or 282, defeating Nancy Lopez with a par on the first extra hole.

 

In 1968, Rancho Bernardo Inn was expanded to 151 guest rooms and our beloved El Bizcocho was opened. A renowned fine-dining experience, it was enjoyed by guests and city residents alike. Chefs such as Gavin Kaysen and Patrick Ponsaty honed their skills in the El Biz kitchen, earning the eatery a loyal following. In 2013, with food trends shifting to a more social, sharing experience, El Bizcocho was respectfully put to rest. In June, after a $2.5 million renovation, AVANT was opened to wide interest and acclaim.

Since its inception, the resort has expanded to include a Conde Nast award winning spa, redesigned golf course, and the addition of 250 more guestrooms.

 

For a great take on the Inn’s history, check out Editor-in-Chief Gillian Flynn’s, article, The Inn Crowd, in Riviera San Diego Magazine.