Back in spring 2009, Inside Scoop broke the news about a new project in Pacifica, THE SURF SPOT, that was going to open in a new building (adjacent to the nursery) in the Sea Bowl parking lot. After following up here and there over the past couple years with partner (and surfer) Derek Burns, I was happy to learn the construction is finally underway. (You can read allllll about the process of opening a restaurant on the coast in this article by Burns in the Pacifica Patch.)
The restaurant is going to be a cool one, featuring a menu divided up in three sections. First is “Surf Spots,” featuring ethnic cuisine from surf spots around the world, like meat pies from Australia, some Hawaiian dishes from an underground oven, and did you know France has waves? Oui. The “Locals” section will feature local ingredients cooked by live fire, from meats on the rotisserie and grill to individual pizzas from the wood-burning oven (plus sandwiches). The “Market” section will be seasonally driven, with more polished dishes, like seafood from local fishermen and produce from farmers in the area.
Since it’s right by the beach, there will be fire pits, live music (on an outdoor stage), volleyball courts, and it’ll be okay for people to show up with sandy feet. Burns said the vibe will be surf-themed and beachy (and groovy and casual), but not kitschy. There will also be palm and banana trees outside adding to a tropical atmosphere.
The 80-seat interior will feature lots of wood, earthy elements, a coastal vibe, with local art and photographs. Since it’s just a 20-minute drive from the city, it will also be a quick jaunt for San Franciscans who want to get out of the city and be outside (and a cool venue for a party!). There will be a wraparound deck that is shielded, covered, and heated, and parties will be able to book an outdoor space with room for 10-12 (and their very own fire pit). Inside there will be a bar with room for 12 made from old growth redwood, plus there will be a couple private rooms. There will be full liquor, but not a late-night bar scene—it’s more about the fire pits. A peek at the preliminary cocktail list included an Aviation, Moscow Mule, Sazerac, and other classics, plus some punches, like a Planter’s Punch and Fish House Punch.
Partners in the project are David Szeto and Tait Cowan. They are hoping to open by the end of the year, follow The Surf Spot on Twitter and Facebook for updates. 4627 Hwy. 1, between Fassler and Crespi, Pacifica.
The construction site. (Photos provided by The Surf Spot.)
