The iconic ’90s nightclub The Roxbury is making a comeback, set to reopen in San Diego with a modernized approach that blends nostalgic appeal with cutting-edge amenities. This revival, led by original proprietor Elie Samaha and partner Jim Valdez, aims to recapture the star-studded energy of the past while setting a new standard for nightlife.
The Roxbury, once a legendary hotspot on Los Angeles’ Sunset Strip, is being resurrected with a new home in San Diego’s vibrant Gaslamp Quarter. Samaha, who originally ran the club, has teamed up with Valdez, founder of Cowboy Cantina, to bring back the exclusive venue. The decision to relocate to San Diego was strategic, as the city’s nightlife scene is currently thriving and innovative, providing an ideal backdrop for this relaunch. Valdez emphasized that their location sits at the heart of Nightlife Central, capitalizing on San Diego’s booming entertainment district.
The reimagined club promises a dynamic fusion of retro nostalgia and modern luxury, featuring a capacity of 400 guests. It will be equipped with floor-to-ceiling LED walls, a state-of-the-art sound system, and luxurious private lounges to enhance the VIP experience. Partiers can look forward to immersive entertainment, cutting-edge technology, and a fresh lineup of world-class DJs, all designed to deliver a bold, contemporary twist on the original iconic style. Samaha described it as a ‘cultural time machine’ that brings back the energy and excitement of the ’90s with a modern edge.
Historically, The Roxbury was a playground for A-list celebrities from 1991 to 1996, known for its exclusive door policy and long entry lines. Notable patrons included Leonardo DiCaprio, Jon Bon Jovi, Naomi Campbell, Patrick Dempsey, Tori Spelling, Mark Wahlberg, Clint Eastwood, and Denzel Washington. The club also served as the backdrop for Madonna’s ‘Deeper and Deeper’ music video in 1992, cementing its place in pop culture history. Its allure drew in Hollywood’s elite, making it a symbol of ’90s glamour and nightlife excess.
Beyond its celebrity allure, The Roxbury inspired the recurring ‘Saturday Night Live’ skit ‘The Roxbury Guys,’ starring Will Ferrell and Chris Kattan, which was later adapted into the 1998 film ‘A Night at the Roxbury.’ This cultural impact has made the club an enduring symbol of ’90s entertainment, and its return is expected to resonate with both nostalgic fans and new generations. The skit and film parody the club’s trendy, exclusive atmosphere, adding a layer of humor to its legacy.
The club is scheduled to open its doors on September 13, 2025, in the heart of San Diego’s Nightlife Central. Samaha and Valdez have expressed ambitions to expand the brand into Los Angeles and New York City in the future, potentially bringing the Roxbury experience to other major urban centers. This expansion could redefine nightlife standards by combining historical charm with modern innovation, tapping into a market eager for retro revivals with contemporary upgrades.
In summary, the reopening of The Roxbury represents more than just a nightclub revival; it’s a cultural resurgence that honors its storied past while embracing the future of entertainment. With its blend of nostalgia and modernity, the club is poised to become a new landmark in San Diego’s nightlife, offering a unique experience that bridges decades of pop culture. The success of this venture could influence similar revivals, highlighting a trend where iconic venues are reimagined for today’s audiences.