Excellent display about global slavery and the civil rights movement and the heroes. I want to return and try the cafe's gumbo and plantains and collards!! Beautiful central seating area inside where it's nice and shaded and cool and quiet. Prices are so reasonable and it was so uncrowded compared to the rest of the park. Nice display of tribal artifacts and artwork. And the talking parrots at the entry were a great bonus! They both said goodbye to us as we exited. read more

Worldbeat Center - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - San Diego, California

We went to the world beat center for a reggae festival. The sound was good. It was not too crowded. Overall a good vibe and we had a good time. read more

This spot just off of Inspiration Pt. Way has a small auditorium, yard and a patio to host a variety of events. The event I made to, was about food and music. Music indoors with a stage for performers. The coolest spot is outside with shade however there is plenty of seating inside, and area to check out booths from various exhibitors. Cool and calm with street parking or the designated areas gives all the reasons to be here. read more

We need more spaces like this in our city. This place is a gem. The history, the culture, the love is seeping through walls and you gotta be prepared to receive it. There's multiple parts to this place. There's an outdoor garden, a cafe, the main cultural center, and more. There's a variety of different Afro-centric and Indigenous centric activities happening here from Zumba to belly dancing to Black Comics to Kwanzaa celebrations to reggae concerts, festivals, summer camps and so much more that I'd run out of room! The wild thing about this place is that it's mostly run by just a handful of people. The food is always solid too. This is an icon in the community. It's a must visit if you're a visitor. It's a community waiting to uplift you if you're BIPOC. And it's a place where you can support and learn more from and with if you're white. In short, it's a place away from home. read more

See all

I must say the meal saved this place. If I only went off costumer service and the $12 smoothie I would have rated it a one or two star. But thanks to the chief, she made an explosion of flavors out of an egg bean and cheese burrito ( there's alot more to this dish but I'm in a rush to get back to work to explain) that blew my socks off! This burrito is jam packed with protein and veggies cheese and a salad. Made with the fresh greens from there garden and an amazing dressing that I can't even explain what made it so good . Yummmm hats off to the chief. The rest of the Experience on the other hand I didn't quite care for. 1. the mango smoothie that I got took about 20 minutes to creat and I wish it was as special as the burrito but sadly it was just mango. No banana and no coconut milk. The meal did take a while but I think it was do to a staff problem not knowing how to serve or has never waited tables. She almost kept my change from the 40$ I handed her for my $21 meal. So since I waited almost 30 minutes for my meal( again I don't think it was the kitchens fault) and I over heard some rude comments by the management about homeless people and how we don't deserve the same hospitality as everyone else. Almost took my appetite away. But again I cannot stress to you how amazing this 5 star chief creates these amazingly delicious dishes. Her parents should be proud. The community is! read more

See all

Beautiful hidden gem. Stumbled upon this place after leaving Balboa Park. It was empty except for a couple of people ordering food. In the back, there are beautiful art pieces that display a beautiful broken history of black people. There's a stage and they give showhich highlights talent. There's billboards that give the history that you don't learn in school which is very nice. read more

Worldbeat Center - Beautiful art and history - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

We came for the MLK Jr Event in 2022. It was okay. We wish that there was more activities to keep the guests busy and more vendors available. It was disappointing to get inside and just have one small section of African Art & artifacts to peruse in a small corner/nook. They definitely need some updates in this space. Our culture deserves a great space to gather and unite. Please consider renovation and redecorating to preserve the flow of the events read more

See all

The food is amazing! Really wish the kitchen was open all week. Also, the idea of the place is wonderful but incredibly outdated and messy. With a thorough cleaning and reorganizing it would generate more traffic. Also the events they hold are great, but again the frequency is minimal. Hopefully they're receptive to some changes =) read more

The Worldbeat Center is a sanctuary. The murals outside are what initially caught my attention. They are so vibrant and striking that I had to investigate further. Inside offers an array of treats and drinks, with equally comforting hangout / working zones. My boyfriend and I made a modest donation because we wanted to thank the owners of The Center for allowing a space to relax and play chess together without the pressure of buying food or drink. Ms. Makeda Dread Cheatom was so warm and kind, she even generously brought us some delicious and clean-ingredient turmeric juice as a gratitude gift. An abundance of love and positivity surrounds this safe haven. I cannot wait to come back. read more

See all

Small cozy cultural center, it's a cafe or bar at night, with a stage for dance performances, stand up comedy and more. By day, you could just visit to explore different cultures around the world, today I get to check out African and Indian cultures together. Parking is pretty easy to find on the street around Balboa Park read more

The food was delicious, I got the African peanut curry with plantains and though it was not a huge portion, the price was definitely reasonable! Will be going again to try other dishes! read more

Worldbeat Center - African Peanut Coconut Curry - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - San Diego, California

When you first enter, there isn't much as far as museum style things. However, if you stay long enough you'll see why they call it the world beat. As in, one heart beat. The unity together as cultures bring forward a story that touches the coldest heart. If it doesn't, you better check your pulse. You may be dead. read more

See all

This place is a real gem in San Diego! From the moment that I walked in, I was warmly greeted by the owner. From the start, I knew that it was a special place. The decorations are cool and the food was amazingly delicious! It felt so real and natural. My stomach thanks me, & it will thank you too. I really recommend it too! : ) read more

Worldbeat Center - peanut African Peanut Tofu Coconut Curry - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

The owner is absolutely an amazing soul and pours her life into the culture and food here. I'm obsessed with the combo plate and Patties. Oh lord. The pastries too. All vegan. I support this place anytime I can. read more

Worldbeat Center - We love this place. - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - San Diego, California

I had their vegan cheeseburger. It was by far the BEST vegan burger I have ever eaten in my entire life (and I've had a lot of vegan burgers). Every single ingredient was so fresh and absolutely top quality. YUM! The sweet potato fries were also very good and fresh. Their vegan bean and cheese burrito was also excellent, as was their chili. Each and every dish had a very unique and fresh taste, with delicious spices. Seriously gourmet quality food in a relaxed and casual atmosphere, and very decently priced. Very highly recommend! And we also got to meet the owner/founder of the Worldbeat Center, and she was so welcoming and a very kind person. read more

Worldbeat Center - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

I really was disappoint by this vegan pop up they had going on! No good vendors, a lot of false advertisement, not much to offer

Johnny Osborne reggae concert tonight 8-11pm but it HAS NOT STARTED yet. It's HOTTER THAN a Bon fire in here. No air but a couple of fans. Stand n sweat or go outside with the many smokers offering you their poison and nasty lipped pipes and Blunts full of their slobber and germs. NO THANKS! But it's 11:15pm and still waiting for Johnny Osborne to start! I WANT A REFUND! Shame on this one! read more

Worldbeat Center - Awaiting Johnny Osborne concert! - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

Im a white male. And a social worker. I entered and was looking at the interesting art. I was there to attend afro beats aerobics 6pm on Tuesday. A black lady came out of the office and asked why I was there. I replied aerobics. She said this is a woman class. That there are other classes with men. I said that didn't concern me as I attend 3 aerobics classes a week and they are usually mostly women. She then said we don't want any problems here. And then I could go or stay. I've never felt so excluded. I'm a social worker, so I recognize bias and hatred when I see it. So, I left read more

First time at this venue and I was uber eggcited to hear that San Diego was having their very first vegetarian/vegan festival. Woohoo ! The goal of this event was to build a healthy and sustainable movement of conscious San Diegans. It was in support of a compassionate, plant-based, animal-friendly lifestyle. Opened to anyone: first time or long time vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, flexitarian, locavorian, or curious foodies. Partnered up with the nonprofit organization, Animal Protection and Rescue League, the festival featured speakers, live food demonstrations, tons of giveaways, Veg leadership awards, Q&A sessions, and free food samples. Unfortunately, the live documentary screening could not be played due to technical difficulties. Hopefully, that will be resolved since I was looking forward to it. Very educational ! There was a family area which showcased San Diego County Master Garderner's Association, San Diego Seed Company, San Diego Hydroponics and Organics, and Back to Roots Mushroom Planters. Workshops included: Planting Station for Children's Seedling and Pea Pots, Children's Garden Bugs Coloring, 101's of Organic Gardening, How to Make Worm Compost Tea. Great to get the kids involved ! Indoor activities consisted of: Free Blood Pressure and Glucose Screenings provided by Operation Samahan, Acupuncture Information provided by Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, Chiropractic information provided by Biophysics Chiropractic, Photo Booth Area, Interactive Art Wall Area and more. 'Southern Fried Vegan' and 'Peace Pies' were amongst the food vendors there, but the lines seemed too long and I just didn't have the patience to wait. Recommend eating prior unless they are able to accommodate large groups with less wait. I'm optimistic this will improve. Overall, it was a pretty good show-up of people. It was a warm day and the venue got a bit stuffy and barely any circulation inside so perhaps another venue to accommodate more people in an open air setting. A few kinks here and there, but as their inaugural event, I thought it was a success. Hope San Diego continues to hold this event. I'm already looking forward to the next one. Get VEGUCATED peeps ! read more

See all

The atmosphere, the people, the food were all great. There was a lot of activity and the artwork alone is worth the teip

Phew, that jerk burger is so freaking good!!! I ate it and then ordered one to go and ate it again when I got home! Soooo very good! So is the combo plate and the peanut stew. And the staff are so friendly too. Very happy to have found this place. read more

Came for Black Comix event for Black History Month, and enjoyed the friendly artists inviting us over to their booths and sharing their passion for graphic arts. Kids had a blast and everything was kid friendly. The event was cool and I was surprised that we had to ask a few people to find the event. They should definitely promote it more and put signs around the park. Will definitely be back for more events here . read more

MUSIC VENUE I've been here a few times for music events, mainly to catch Soulful House DJ's spin. First time I came here I didn't even live in San Diego and was visiting the area with friends. The past couple times I been here, I've came for The Weekender. Most recently, Souleil. The venue isn't very big and most of the parties are outside starting in the afternoon and latest until 10pm. Not the best venue and there isn't in-and-outs. I can only stand the place 2hrs tops before itching to leave. They set the DJ's up on a small stage with partial tent coverage above the small dancing area. Few tents serving liquor and beer. Maybe one food venue if lucky serving food. It's really small and not much to do unless you dance the entire time in which I'm not drunk enough. The Souleil event was pretty cool, DJ Heather and DJ Colette performed - I have been a fan of Colette for a long time so it was nice to see her perform live. BUT I'll be real, DJ Heather had a better set. Until the next event.. read more

The Worldbeat Center is one of my favorite places for vegan food in San Diego with a diverse menu of Caribbean cuisines - the jerk burger and combo plate were particularly delicious! The center offers eclectic classes and music. The Executive Director and Founder, Makeda Cheatom, has created a dynamic community and center and is incredibly generous. She gave us a tour of the garden and meditation space, where she grows all of the fresh produce which she uses in her restaurant, including the jackfruit that she used to produce our smoothies. The Worldbeat Center's exterior murals celebrating Egyptian, African, and Indigenous Cultures are absolutely beautiful. The Worldbeat Center is an absolute must-visit destination in Balboa Park and San Diego! read more

The African dance class was Amazing! Today the dance teacher taught us afro-brazilian and afro-cuban dance! Our lovely & beautiful dance teacher even gave us eduation about the dance movements we were doing!! The warm up is a workout in itself and much needed for what's to come!. The routines are easy to follow (having rythym helps too), and the drums take over your total being...whether you can follow the routine or not, you will be compelled to move your body and burn calories! Everyone is so supportive and really cheer you on to get a good workout AND again, you really absorb those drums (they make you feel like you are also a professional African dancer, even if it's your first time! Lol). The class is affordable and worth it! Tip those drummers they sound GOOD and play for well over an hr. Did I mention the class was 1 - 1/2 hrs! I will be back! Thank you for a great experience!! read more

Worldbeat Center - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

I was here a couple weeks ago to watch Sola Rosa perform. (Sola Rosa is an awesome band from New Zealand; definitely check them out!) We weren't really sure what to expect, but once Sola Rosa was on stage and got people out on the dance floor, we had a great time. They were only on for maybe 1-1.5 hours but were part of a larger show. I noticed some others mentioned they don't serve alcohol here, but there was alcohol at this show. We didn't purchase any, but it was there for us if needed. The facility was a decent size and we had plenty of room to dance. They were recording the show and had it displayed on a large screen as well. There wasn't much of a crowd at the show and we were dancing right in front of the stage, so we didn't really look to the screen. Spragga (from Sola Rosa) mentioned that the sound system there was pretty good even though they did run into some sound problems during the show. Everything sounded great to me! If you go to the Worldbeat Center, be prepared to park on the street (or in one of the nearby Balboa Park lots). Also, incense seems to be always burning there, so be prepared for this very noticeable scent. I could still smell the incense for a couple days after the show (even after showering). The show itself was 5 stars; the facility 3.5 stars. I do appreciate that Worldbeat Center hosted this event and Sola Rosa made it down to SD to close out their world tour here though...so 4 stars it is! read more

I came here last night to see my friend perform and was pretty excited cuz I've always wanted to check this place out. The rent a cops here are an absolute joke! They were just sitting around texting and I noticed a lot of the guys flirting with VERY young female patrons. I absolutely cannot believe what I saw last night. For starters, there is NO ventilation and it gets hotter than a sauna in there. On top of that, I'm pretty sure it's all ages - my friends and I are all in our early twenties and we felt ancient being there. No joke, there must have been a few 12 year olds. These kids were so young! And they were messed up on ecstasy! These kids weren't drinking any water and were grinding against each other and it was just...it was so sad/difficult to see. There was one girl who was belligerently out of her mind, wasn't drinking any water, cross eyed, her jaw looked dislocated...I tried informing security so that maybe they could get her outside for some fresh air but no one did anything! I don't know where these 12-15 year old gutter trolls came from, but I won't be coming back here ever again. I wouldn't even come back if you paid me! I hope this event (Scream) gets shut down asap because last night was absolutely disgusting. I can't remember the promoter's name but his underlings were all messed up on ecstasy as well and so hard to communicate with! I wanted water for my friend who was performing and it seriously took over 20 minutes because they were too busy sniffing Vick's VapoRub! Now, I'm no perfect angel and I'll admit I've done my experimentation here and there...but doing drugs and not facing any consequences from what should be responsible adults = low. This event was more ghetto than the underground raves that I used to hit up in downtown Los Angeles. I WISH I COULD GIVE THIS PLACE ZERO STARS. read more

I went to see Anthony B this last weekend. After the boozey shit-fest that took place at his last concert at the Belly Up, I was ready for a crazy night. I pm'ed fellow yelper Ace D. to figure out the booze situation at this venue. He informed the of the lack of and I was bit disappointed but nothing a flask and a few beers in the car couldn't handle. We had two tickets and three concert goers so we parked in the adjacent parking lot and walked in to purchase ticket number three before intending to return to car to partake in some intoxication. We had to buy tickets inside and they searched us first. Although we intended to exit and return to the venue, one of my friends decided to turn in her ticket for a wristband. She then could not re-enter the venue upon exiting so there we were, stuck in the world beat center after a mere 3 beers and at least two hours before the wonderful Anthony B. would perform. We made the best of the situation, we ate some ital food, we drank some coffee and then, we sat. Unfortunately, the lack of alcoholic libations makes for a pretty boring crowd. The artwork here is great and I really respect them for being a booze-free and all ages venue. I would return for something mellow like a class or an art show. I don't think I will be coming to another concert here anytime soon. read more

My organization hosted an event at the World Beat Center, and we will never work with them again. Their staff were unreliable and unprepared, which resulted in a lot of problems during the event that reflected badly on us. Though the space itself is cool, I would highly advise against holding an event there if you are considering it. read more

Worldbeat Center is at the heart of many movements and serves to cultivate peace for all living beings. I would compare this place to the museums of Balboa Park, yet it is so very much more. I love so many things about this place: the lively dance parties, the sustainable garden, the children's program, international school and the charismatic leader's passion for speaking to the rich indigenous history uniting the roots of all people. There is Kombucha on tap which is fresh and delicious. There is a cafe and kitchen open on select days. Also, you can rent the space for events! All generations and cultures are at home here. This is a place for the people. So I consider this a living museum and a place where culture and science collide in the dance of life. From the Earth to the Stars, Worldbeat Center brings wisdom into cultural consideration. As a center of expanding concern the subjects "curated" in this cultural nexus run the gamut from sustainable gardening to astronomy as the history of wisdom is given voice. Peace is a practice and in San Diego, Worldbeat Center keeps the heart beat of unity alive and well situated in this living museum of soul, spirit and sustainable prosperity. read more

1st Show here: Went to see a New Zealand Reggae band called Fat Freddy's Drop back in January I think?, Great band! Check them out and also Shapeshifter from NZ they are amazing! It was packed- It was an all ages show and there was NO ALCOHOL being served. The avg age group was probably 16- 23 and the occasional family with there kids. Keep in mind this was a Saturday night show and past 9pm. I want to say good things about this place but after a hard week work I want to go out enjoy some nice music with my girlfriend and be able to enjoy a Beer or so to relax. The lack of alcohol being served makes me feel like I am at a Church Youth center or something- and I am not religious. Being in my 30's and enjoying a nice Mash Up of the dance station is what I was after and it was not delivered by venue and lack of energy in the crowd as well. This place is pretty big and its hard to get the energy up in this place unless it is packed. I am sure the under 21's loved it, maybe. Either way I will take a pass. 2nd show was for a Drum and Bass show last Friday in Feb. Got there at 10pm and it was empty and there was literally 20 rent a cops that where the opposite of chill. They where frothing at the mouth to pat me down at the empty door as I finished my cigarette before entering made the place seem as uninviting as possible. So yeah he patted me down had me empty my pockets etc. fine cool what ever. Next My girl friend went in and there was a butch looking rent a cop who went to school on her feeling up her boobs and everything- super hectic for sure! Now remember her and I are clean cut 30 somethings w 9-5's into some nice Drum and Bass, not some Hippie tweaker ally way scum. Butch Rent a cop emptied my girl friend's purse and she had pepper spray in it, so out it goes and almost out into the trash but my GF asked if she could have the "security" hold it somewhere. They where nice enough to hold it for her, but after we left at last call (130ish?) said rent a cop was no where to be seen and so was my GF's pepper spray. Drum and Bass Djs with MC's was decent. Had Ed Rush and Optical on the stage mashing up the basslines proper. Good energy later in the night. Fun for sure. SUMMARY: This place is cool if you are under age for all ages shows and do not like alcohol. I like how they support world culture and try to bring that flavor to San Diego which is great. So if you find an event here that you like assume it will be NO ALCOHOL served unless noted on there on web site and go in with an open mind. This is place is cool but only 3 stars because it is not as inviting and warm of a venue as I would like. I am more of a Bar Dynamite vibe kind of guy. Hope that helps you guys out. Big Up San Diego Junglists! read more

Three years of living in San Diego and two previous visits to San Diego and not once had we been here. This place is tiny but has so many colorful things to see. Additionally they have an area where they serve drinks together with events which take place. They have two birds outside which talk away Which was a big plus for my daughter together with the drumming which was going on. read more

Makeda.....YOU ARE AWESOME LIKE YOU'RE FOOD! Veggies straight outta the garden man! Anytime I return to SD I will make sure to stop in and get full off awesome food, convo and souvenirs. I hate that I missed the drumming event that was happening on the day I was leaving. GO! ...you won't be disappointed! read more

Worldbeat Cultural Center is located in Balboa Park. It is mainly a venue for music events, predominantly reggae music. They have classes for drumming, yoga, tai chi; the classes are usually just a few people, from what I have seen. There is a cafe, but it seems to be lacking any business. The place has a lot of potential, but does not live up to it. I agree with the other reviewer who commented on the lack of supervision for children's classes; my feeling is that it is not the safest environment for young children. I am glad this place is here, but overall there is a bad vibe here, I can't quite put my finger on exactly what it is, but the dissonance is strongly felt. read more

Ive been here a few times a couple years ago and I enjoyed it. They hold spoken word events here from local artists and I'm always left in thought after each show. It has been years since Ive been in the spoken word scene and knew of events but it makes me reminiscent of those times. The site is small and you sit on folded chairs but otherwise it's a great little venue, which I feel is fitting for shows like these. Parking isnt bad, especially during the evening and though the site is small, you dont feel claustrophobic. It attracts very diverse, open-minded and chill as hell people so everytime I've come Ive always met super friendly people. If and when I ever have the time and they still hold spoken word events, Ill definitely bring my husband to a show. But then again, it's just my opinion.. read more

In the park? Stop by this very cool building: actually, not a building at all, but a re-purposed water container: it literally used to hold over 1 million gallons of water. Many different things happen at this venue, however, they've got a great little coffee/snack bar and are very willing to show off the facility. read more

This is how I will design my spaceship when its time time to fly home to Marz and live with my ancestors... The outside art is a gift from none other than Air Mike, and recalls the inside of an Ancient Egyptian pyramid and the High Science that goes along with that... This is more than an event center; this is a landmark for all cultures to evolve and revolve... A huge amount of programs designed for the children and usually free... A safe environment that welcomes and embraces diversity and insures tolerance.. ThANKH you Sister Makeda for your livication to the community.. Also check out the Prophet Vegetarian cafe inside and come watch BlackHeart Warriors launch into some heavy soundsystem vibez.... read more

Stumbled upon this african artist oasis while having lunch in Balboa Park. What an incredible space! The murals are expansive and luring. Walking through the interior, they serve vegan/vegetarian noshes and a swell selection of Kombucha on tap and herbal teas. GREAT VIBE! The stage looks very pro and now is on my radar as a must see live music venue. I think i'm gonna sign up for one of their african drum classes! read more

I don't know what it's like in the day time, but I came here to watch a concert and it was pretty cool. I liked how small the venue was, but big enough for a good-sized crowd. I don't know what else they provide here, but to be honest it didn't seem like much. I'm only rating this place based on my experience at a small gig. I had a great time here, which is why I gave it 4 stars. Plus they have free parking across the street! Overall, I thought that this was a pretty good venue for artists who are just starting out or aren't too big yet. read more

I came to a rave here and it was very well managed. I knew the people who had organized the event and I quizzed them about their interaction with the management- everything thing went smoothly. It's def. a DIY vibe- I heard snarky comments about "being at a high school dance" but you know what, I'd come to see a million events here before I'd go a single time to a gaslamp douche bag factory. DIY FOREVER. Personally, I would consider doing an event here- seems like the easiest way to get a venue in Balboa Park. The lack of air conditioning would make it hot in the summer time. read more