Sevilla’s Story

Café Sevilla was opened in 1987 by Spanish-born owners Rogelio and Janet Huidobro, who would gather with friends longing for the traditional and authentic ambiance of Spain. One of the first such establishments in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, Sevilla started as a small Tapas Bar and became popular immediately, and its popularity and success has grown steadily ever since.

Sevilla’s enthusiasm and dedication to the authentic Spanish Cuisine and ambiance in every detail has been the driving force behind the establishment and still sustains it to this day. The dance club began as an unfinished cellar with a single light bulb, and months later the Flamenco Show and Club were born. In 1992, Eric Van Den Haute was named General Manager (later becoming CEO), bringing experience, fresh ideas and determination to the business.

Thereafter a strong entertainment program developed, with the Flamenco Show at its heart. Each night of the week developed a theme, with Salsa & Merengue, Brazilian Samba, Rock en Español, and Rumba guitarists added to the lineup. Recently an authentic Gypsy Fusion Show was added, showcasing the music and dance traditions of the Gypsies of Spain and France, a spectacle that cannot be found anywhere else in California.

In fall 1995, Sevilla expanded its offerings even more. Taking over a closed theater next door, Sevilla created a lovely dining room painted to evoke a patio under the stars in southern Spain on a romantic spring evening and offering fine Spanish and Seafood cuisine, which has won many awards.

Having accomplished a dream and providing its guests with the true essence of Spain for more than a decade, Sevilla expanded with large, beautiful new locations in historic downtown Riverside in 2000 and vibrant Pine Avenue in Long Beach in 2006. Olé!

Website: http://www.cafesevilla.com/locs/riverside/index.html