Logan Heights hookah lounge labeled ‘magnet for criminal activity’ ordered to close

A Logan Heights hookah lounge has been shut down and its operators ordered to pay civil penalties over what the San Diego City Attorney’s Office said Monday was years of illegal activity and safety code violations.

The Secret Yard Hookah Lounge on Imperial Avenue must cease all business operations and advertising as a result of the court-ordered judgment, which the City Attorney’s Office said stemmed from years of violent activity, drug sales and a host of other violations.

The defendants must pay $112,500 in penalties and investigative costs, but a violation of the judgment could result in an additional $1.2 million in penalties.

According to the City Attorney’s Office, police were called to the business hundreds of times between 2021 and 2024 for a variety of crimes, including gun violence and fights.

The business was also connected to other criminal activity, including a bouncer and his family member being charged with the attempted murder of a customer and other patrons “linked” to a homicide, the City Attorney’s Office said.

The business also received repeated warnings from state and local agencies regarding safety violations and fire hazards, yet continued operating.

“This nuisance business repeatedly chose profits over safety and showed no regard for the community it endangered,” San Diego City Attorney Heather Ferbert said. “After years of draining police resources, refusing to obtain required building permits, and inviting violence into a residential neighborhood, the Secret Yard is finally, and permanently, shut down.”

The judgment was reached against the venue’s operators, but litigation is still pending against the property owner.

“Our community members deserve a thriving neighborhood with bars, restaurants, and other businesses that operate safely and responsibly,” San Diego Police Department Chief Scott Wahl said.

“The Secret Yard was a magnet for criminal activity, and its closure is a huge relief for so many involved.”