The July/August issue 2023 of The Osider Magazine

Coastal Exposures

An iconic view of this year's Oceanside Independence Parade.

Photo by Jesse Lopez

2 COASTAL EXPOSURES

Featuring our best images of Oceanside on tap Photography by Jesse Lopez

6 SET IN STONE

Awarding The Osider Photography Scholarship recipient

10 OCEANSIDE’S FINEST • David Parsons

12 GREEN O • Zero waste beach day

14 HIDDEN GEMS • SweatDreams Fitness

16 ARTS & CULTURE • Oceanside's Upcoming Events

18 HOMEGROWN • Bishop Snow

22 ARTS • OMA Summer Exhibits

50 COMMUNITY • Renaming Prince Park

54 LOCAL BUSINESS • PCH Dent Repair

56 LOCAL RETAILER • Throwback Gamez

RESTAURANT REVIEW

58 INLAND • Himalayan Bistro

60 COASTAL • Cococabana

62 COASTAL • Corner Pizza

64 RESTAURANT AND BAR GUIDE

The Osider guide to all the best bars and eateries in town

70 FAST FORWARD TO YESTERDAY Mission Avenue and Coast Highway

FEATURES

28 TEN THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT OCEANSIDE’S BARS

Read up on the history of our expanding bar scene

32 THE OSIDER'S HAPPY HOUR GUIDE

Check these 12 great places for happy hour

38 IVEY RANCH PARK ASSOCIATION

Learn about Oceanside's beacon of success and goodwill

SET IN STONE

A word from the publisher

A great magazine consists of two main ingredients: captivating well written stories and amazing photography. Here, at The Osider, we strive to bring you both with every issue we drop. We know we can always do more for our community, and that’s why each year we pick one high school senior for The Osider Photography Scholarship.

This year, we are proud to award Jesse Lopez Garcia of Oceanside High School as our recipient. Jesse has spent the last four years in the Pirate Pics after school photography program, headed by The Osider ’s Zach Cordner.

Jesse’s work has been published in our magazine multiple times and the sky’s the limit for this growing photographer! So, please join us in congratulating this young man’s undeniable talent behind the lens. Jesse is attending MiraCosta College with plans on attending Cal State Long Beach with a major in photojournalism.

We also have some exceptional stories for your enjoyment, starting with a happy hour guide featuring

twelve hometown favorites that will hit the spot without breaking your budget.

Plus, we have a special homegrown story, featuring local musician Bishop Snow, in addition to all the other fun reads you have come to know and love in each issue.

Summer is finally showing itself with endless bright and sunny days ahead. It’s the time of year to be outside, bask in the sunshine, and enjoy all the great things Oceanside has to offer.

Please, remember to stay positive out there, be kind to one another, and have an incredible summer.

Cheers, Jamey Stone

The Osider's Zach Cordner with this year's scholarship winner Jesse Lopez Garcia.

PUBLISHER

Jamey Stone /Publisher/Co-Founder stone@theosider.com

EDITORIAL

Zach Cordner/Creative Director/Co-Founder zach@theosider.com

Dwayne Carter/Design Director dwayne@theosider.com

Shelby Rowe /Editor shelbyamrowe@gmail.com

R.I.P. Aaron Schmidt /Editorial Director (1972-2022)

ADVERTISING

Nolan Woodrell /Advertising Director nolan@theosider.com

Kathleen Larson /Advertising Sales bepollinated@gmail.com

ADMINISTRATION

Alicia Stone

CONTRIBUTORS

Eric Klier, Priscilla Iezzi, Alondra Figueroa, Mort Hunter, Katie LaLicata, Leah Lee, Jesse Lopez, Kristi Hawthorne, Kevin Mijares, Brandon Parks, Elizabeth Schwartze, Alicia Stone, Larence Tanjuaquio

SPECIAL THANKS

Oceanside Historical Society, Tim Wrisley, Amber Lussier, Alondra Figueroa, Bruce The Trenchcoat Guy, Anamarina Hernandez, The Carter Family, The Woodrell Family, The Becker Family, Ron Goodin, Bailey Stone, Braden Stone, Judy Endorf, The Hoffer Family, Steve and Linda Josepho, Jean Josepho, Bottom Line Management, Oceanside Museum of Art, and all of our advertisers

Facebook.com/TheOsiderMagazine @theosidermag

All inquiries, please contact info@theosider.com

PUBLISHED

Oceanside's Finest CHIEF DAVID PARSONS

When one of Oceanside’s Finest also serves as Oceanside’s Fire Chief, it’s a win for the city. Chief David Parsons is one of Oceanside’s own, proudly serving a twenty-one year career with the Oceanside Fire Department. He has dedicated his professional life to the safety of Oceanside’s citizens, and his appointment on July 30, 2023, is a proud distinction for the City of Oceanside.

Hailing from Tucson, Arizona, Parsons obtained his bachelor degree in health sciences from the University of Arizona. He started his career in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and then on to Portland, Oregon before moving to San Diego when his wife, Donna, wanted to be closer to family. Donna hails from San Diego and returning to her home county was a priority. Fortunately, the City of Oceanside was hiring, and in 2001, amongst a pool of thousands of applicants, Parsons was hired by the city.

Enhancing his knowledge in the fire and medic field, Parsons is also a registered nurse. The R.N. is extremely helpful since EMS (Emergency Medical Services) is 80% of emergency calls received. To round out his comprehensive education, Parsons obtained his master’s degree in emergency and disaster management in 2017. Parsons’ notable accolades include Chief Fire Officer designation from the Center for Public Safety Excellence. He served on the Federal Incident Management Team every summer from 20162022. Parsons and his wife have two college-aged sons, and in the past few years, they decided to

officially make Oceanside their forever home.

Lending to his authenticity, Parsons is especially proud of the fact that he rose through the ranks of Oceanside Fire Department. He is the first Fire Chief to begin his Oceanside career graduating from Oceanside Fire Academy where he was awarded “Most Outstanding Recruit” over twenty years ago.

resources. We feel we are very progressive, and professional in the industry,” Parsons proudly states.

Recruiting and training young men and women is crucial, and being role models at all levels provides a certain level of empowerment. Measure X, the Oceanside measure that funded local programs including fire, was instrumental in supporting the department’s success with recruitment and retention.

The position of Fire Chief is all-encompassing since Oceanside’s fire department is the third largest in San Diego County and includes eight fire stations, beach lifeguard facilities, and recently added to the docket, Oceanside Harbor. It also includes nonemergency services of fire investigations, plan checks for new development, fire prevention inspections, and public education. In 2022, Oceanside Fire answered a total of 24,173 calls for service, serving the public 24 hours per day, 365 days per year.

There’s no doubt that Oceanside is in good hands with Oceanside’s Finest, Fire Chief Parsons.

“For our team, it lent to the idea that I was still one of them but moved up the ranks. For leadership, that bridges the barrier because I was one of them,” Parsons explains.

One of the major challenges the Oceanside Fire Department faces in the upcoming years is recruitment.

“We’re a very young department. I’m really working hard to empower leadership to provide the best example we can, and something we’re very proud of is we do more work with fewer

“I want to be a high-performing organization. Being high-performing allows us to not be stuck in a routine. Four traits to keep in mind

1) Teamwork

2) Collaboration 3) 360 degree communication

4) Leadership at all levels. We want to create a culture of excellence from the very beginning. We can meet the needs of our community!”

Thank you, Fire Chief Parsons. The citizens of Oceanside look forward to your continued dedication and service!

“We’re a very young department. I’m really working hard to empower leadership to provide the best example we can provide, and something we’re very proud of is we do more work with fewer resources. We feel we are very progressive, and professional in the industry”

WORDS: ELIZABETH SCHWARTZE

PHOTO: ZACH CORDNER

Oceanside is committed to zero waste and is dedicated to providing visitors and residents with a clean, beautiful community and coastline. You can help by following the three R’s: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.

Rethink Disposables: Help us by not using single-use plastics like water bottles, straws, bags, and utensils. Go reusable!

How to have a ZERO WASTE BEACH DAY

Reduce your generation of waste. Bring only what you need to have a good time. Don’t bring everything “and the kitchen sink” to the beach.

Reuse as many items as possible. Bring your food and drinks in reusable containers. Say no to disposables. Single-use utensils, foam coolers, and takeout ware is not recyclable and will last a lifetime past your beach day.

Recycle everything you can!

Rigid plastic beverage containers, cardboard, and paper are all recyclable.

Pack in, pack out. When it’s time to leave, remember to take home what you bring. Bring a reusable bag to sort your trash and recyclables at home. Hold a mini family beach cleanup and don’t forget to pick up all the beach toys.

Learn more about a Zero Waste Beach Day on the PBS special Curiosity Quest Goes Green hosted by Joel Greene. Scan the code to watch the complete episode.

Please, remember to take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footprints when visiting Oceanside’s beaches. One Planet, Take Action for Zero Waste.

For more information on the City’s Green Oceanside events and programs visit Greenoceanside.org

Hidden Gems

SweatDreams FITNESS

To find inspiration can be a challenge. Perhaps it’s not that inspiration is absent, but that one needs guidance on where to look. Well, look no further than 419 S Coast Highway and into the world of SweatDreams Fitness.

From motivations to muscles, abs to aspirations, SweatDreams Fitness offers a platform like none other. With a focus on both result based functional fitness and an emphasis on self improvement and customer service, the experience at SweatDreams is truly one of a kind. The kind that’s accessible and thoughtfully delivered to anyone and everyone; professional athletes and newbies to the gym alike all have a place here. It’s progressive results-driven fitness program that’s fun, served with a heaping side of sweat, the most epic playlists, neon disco lighting, and trainers calling out inspiring messages.

There’s something palpably authentic about the SweatDreams philosophies that puzzle-pieces themselves perfectly into Oside’s sassy but sweet, edgy but cute avant garde culture. A stand alone gym, not corporate, not basic, but rooted in fundamentals and sealed with a big juicy sweaty kiss.

Owners Michael Laird and Heidi Chasse proudly, yet humbly, embody every aspect of what is being offered. Are they a little loud? Yep. Are the walls painted black and ceilings adorned with neon signs and disco lights? Are their daily class offerings aptly introduced as Thirst Trap Thursday, Wet T-Shirt Wednesday, and Motivation Monday? Do they genuinely care about every person that steps through their doors? Yep, yep, and yep.

But all of that is what makes SweatDreams so dang good. It’s not just another place to work

out. It’s a community. It’s real. It’s real hard and real fun, and something anyone can do.

The benefits here are all encompassing, a stronger body and, of course, a stronger mind. To be able to organically build such a thriving space is a testament of how deeply they believe in and personify the product they have created.

“We want to be here, where people talk about their struggles, where they talk about their goals... and that’s the forefront of what we do here. The fitness side of things is purely a tangible way for them to put these habits into action and see some tangible results and then take it elsewhere.”

And to that demeanor, they hold true and strong. Over the past year and half these four walls have been a nesting ground for giving their members not just physical transformation, but confidence to carry with them out the front doors and into their lives.

“Don’t look at us as a gym. We want to be a self improvement company. If you’re searching for self improvement in any way—physically, emotionally, spiritually—come and try this place. Yes, we are gym but it’s simply a stepping stone to self belief and it will allow you to believe in yourself to do anything. And the messages, lessons, habits, and the things you learn here can be transferred to anywhere. It’s the example that you can do anything you set your mind to. If you think of yourself as not a fitness person, we're the gym for you. If you think of yourself as the best fitness person, we're the gym for you.”

Stop by this hidden gem on Coast Highway to not only get your sweat on, but to push yourself and your dreams to your highest potential.

WORDS: KATIE LALICATA PHOTOS: LEAH LEE

Owners Michael Laird and Heidi Chasse

Arts & Culture

OCEANSIDE'S UPCOMING EVENTS

Samoan Cultural Celebration

The 35th annual Oceanside Samoan Cultural Celebration is a weeklong homegrown event, open to the public, presented by volunteers who work alongside Save Our Streets, a group focused on Oceanside’s troubled neighborhoods and city park venues.

This year’s celebration begins at Melba Bishop Recreation Center on Sunday, July 2 at 3pm with a traditional choir service, and continues Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 5-9pm with youth basketball, cup stack, pickleball, music, step dance, and lots of food, fellowship, and fun.

Saturday, July 8 from 12-8:45pm brings the event to a close with a full day of Samoan and Pacific Island song and dance, island food booths, cultural performances, island designs and apparel booths, and performances, including the spectacular Siva Afi (Samoan Fire Knife Dance) and featuring Lea Love (Oceanside), Faiva (Oceanside/ Los Angeles), Local Culture (Los Angeles), and The Katinas and Kuzins Reunion (Nashville, TN).

Oceanside’s own homegrown sport, cup stack, will be featured in the Junior Seau Beach Center from 10:30am-1:30pm on Saturday. Original World Champ, Matt ‘Attack’ Adame, will be on hand to meet and greet stackers, and test their cup stack skills!

July 8 @ 12-8:45pm | Oceanside Pier Amphitheater

Downtown History Walk

Experience the history of Oceanside with an Oceanside Historical Society Downtown History Walk, held the second Saturday of each month starting at 9am in front of the Oceanside Civic Center Library (look for the plaque of Andrew Jackson Myers). Your tour guide will be a member of the Oceanside Historical Society, eager to show you around beautiful downtown Oceanside, revealing the historical significance of local homes, churches and banks, three Irving J. Gill buildings, the Oceanside Pier and bandshell, and a variety of other sites.

Walks take about two hours, covering 1.5 miles and are pleasantly paced so folks of all ages can participate. Downtown History Walks are free (donations are always welcome!) and open to everyone!

Second Saturdays: July 8, Aug 12, Sept 9 @ 9-11am | Civic Center Plaza | oceansidehistoricalsociety.org | @oceansidehistoricalsociety

First Friday Oceanside Art Walk

First Friday Oceanside Art Walk, presented by Oceanside Friends of the Arts, celebrates its ninth year this summer! Immerse yourself in the culture of Oceanside at this monthly free family friendly event that brings both emerging and established local artists into the heart of the Oceanside Cultural District. Experience local artists showcasing music, paintings, photography, jewelry, pottery, and crafts in Artist Alley and the Civic Plaza, and create some art or music yourself with interactive activities, including family friendly crafts with Studio ACE and Aki’s Drum Circle!

Up to 60 artists are showcased each month, and local emerging artists are encouraged to apply.

First Fridays July 7, Aug 4, Sept 1 @ 4-8pm | Artist Alley and Civic Center Plaza | oceansideartwalk.org | @oceansideartwalk

Oceanside Theatre Company Presents Billie! Backstage With Lady Day

Intimate. Intense. Visceral. Playwright, actress, and singer Synthia L. Hardy returns to the Brooks Theater for one weekend only in Billie! Backstage With Lady Day on July 28-30, 2023. Her awardwinning, one-woman show about Billie Holiday, one of the greatest jazz and blues performers of all time, received glowing reviews for its 2022 San Diego premiere.

Part theater and part concert, the musical, written by Hardy and directed by Bryan Rasmussen, combines storytelling and song to capture the essence of Billie Holiday’s music and life. Hardy won three NAACP Theatre Awards for Billie! Backstage With Lady Day including Best One Person Show, as well as two Artistic Director Achievement Awards.

“Ultimately, this production hustles and breathes on its own to bring an icon to life before our eyes. While Billie! does not shy away from the abuse that its titular superstar and the Black community faced at the hands of society in her era, at the end of the day, it serves as a celebration of a woman of excellence, her resilience, and her many great contributions to the industry and the world,” wrote Cassiopeia Guthrie in San Diego Story of the 2022 performance.

July 28-29 @ 8pm; July 30 @ 2pm | Sunshine Brooks Theater | oceansidetheatre.org | @ oceansidetheatrecompany

Arts & Culture events happen throughout the city brought to you by the City of Oceanside Arts Commission

(D1) District 1, (D2) District 2, (D3) District 3, (D4) District 4

Festivals & Multicultural Events

• First Friday @ Tremont Collective (July 7, Aug 4) 5-9pm, Tremont Collective (D1)

• Oceanside Art Walk (July 7, Aug 4) 4-8pm, Artist Alley (D1)

• Artist Awakening (July 8, Aug 12) 1-8pm, Artist Alley (D1)

• Oceanside Samoan Cultural Celebration (July 8) 12-8:45pm, Oceanside Pier Amphitheater (D1)

• Street Level (July 14, Aug 18) 5-9pm, Oceanside Museum of Art (D1)

• Plein Air Festival (July 15-22) Oceanside Museum of Art (D1)

• Oceanside Longboard Surfing Club Contest and Beach Festival (Aug 11) Oceanside Pier (D1)

• South O Car Show (Aug 26) 9am-5pm, South O Elementary (D1)

Music, Theater & Film

Classes & Workshops

• Art For All (July 2, Aug 6) 12-2pm, Oceanside Museum of Art (D1)

• Watercolor Journey (Mondays) 6:30-8:30pm, Studio ACE (D2)

• Family Sip & Paint Night (July 7, Aug 4) 6:30-9:30pm, Studio ACE (D2)

• Downtown History Walk (July 8, Aug 12) 9-11am, Civic Center Library (D1)

• San Diego Veteran Writers Group (July 15, Aug 19) 11am-2pm, VANC Center (D1)

• Twisted Stitches Yarn Club (July 18 @ Civic Center Library, Aug 1 @ Mission Branch Library) (D1 and D4)

• Crafter's Studio: We Are All Neighbors (July 27) 1-3pm, Studio ACE (D2)

• Taste of Art (July 28, Aug 25) 5:30-7:30pm, Oceanside Museum of Art (D1)

• Writer's Open Mic (Aug 12) 2-4pm, Mission Branch Library (D4)

• Candlelight Concert: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons (July 8) 6:30 & 9:30pm, Mission San Luis Rey (D4)

• Film Screening presented by Opper Films: The 1965 Duke Kahanamoku Invitational Surfing Championship (July 12) 6pm, California Surf Museum (D1)

• Dancing at Dusk (July 12-13) 8-10pm, MiraCosta (D3)

• Poets Underground presents Hello Hip Hop (July 13, 27, Aug 10, 24) 6:30-7:30pm, Brooks Theater (D1)

• 13, The Musical (July 14-16), Brooks Theater (D1)

• Disney's Beauty And the Beast (July 14-23), Star Theatre (D1)

• Concerts at El Corazon: Gone Blonde (July 16) 4-7pm, SoCal Sports Complex (D4)

• Billie! Backstage With Lady Day (July 28-30), Brooks Theater (D1)

• Summer Concerts On The Green – Technique (July 29) 6pm, Arrowood Golf Course (D4)

• Movie in the Park - Minions: The Rise of Gru (July 29) 7:30pm, Mance Buchannon Park (D4)

• Concerts in the Park: Savor: A Santana Tribute (Aug 4) 5-8pm, Mance Buchannon Park (D4)

• Dive-in Movie - Lilo & Stitch (Aug 12) 6:30pm, William A. Wagner Aquatic Center (D3)

• Summer Concerts On The Green – X Syndicate (Aug 26) 6pm, Arrowood Golf Course (D4)

• Concerts at El Corazon: B-Lot Music (Aug 27) 4-7pm, SoCal Sports Complex (D4)

Do you have a special event coming up?

Let us know what events are happening in your district through the end of the year!

Email: arts_commission@oceansideca.org

Homegrown

BISHOP SNOW

At 28 years old, Bishop Snow has found his life path. And, it’s through writing and performing straight up, no bullshit West Coast gangster rap.

Not everyone has the best upbringing here in Oside and, although this city continues to grow and change, the truth is that there is still a raw side to life in this amazing town.

Bishop is a perfect example. Growing up half Mexican, half African American in the valley and eastside, it wasn’t always easy, but it’s also where his lyrical content tells the story of coming up in the rugged streets here. The crazy thing is that he only started going full on into the rap game at 26–that’s just two years ago.

He did mess around and freestyle growing up from time to time, but just for fun when out drinking with the homies. It wasn’t until he had his son, Giovanni, that helped him to make the move to go 100% into the rap game. That’s when his good friends, Andres and Daniel Ximenez of MadStrange, noticed his talent and decided to back him up, get him in the studio, and on the program.

Since that day, Bishop has poured everything into the game and has been putting out hardcore West Coast records in a time where hip hop has gone into a completely different direction.

Speaking about his trials and tribulations of life is honestly quite refreshing and shines through to the time I was growing up when groups like NWA were changing the face of what West Coast rap was all about.

Everything is produced through MadStrange and they have found solid exposure pushing out content on multiple social media channels, reaching 10 million views on Reels while driving over 80,000 downloads on Spotify—and still growing.

I must admit, it’s inspiring to see this young man chase his dreams on his own terms while shining the light on how life can be on the other side of the tracks in Oceanside. I highly recommend checking out Bishop Snow on his Instagram listed below. He will have you throwing up the O with pride as soon as you hear the first verse.

@bishopsnow_ @madstrange

WORDS: JAMEY STONE PHOTO: ZACH CORDNER

Be sure to check out the next Street Level events at Oceanside Museum of Art on July 14th and August 18th.

OMA SUMMER EXHIBITS: ART FOR THE PEOPLE: WPA ERA PAINTINGS & OCEANSIDE PLEIN AIR FESTIVAL

WORDS: KATIE LALICATA

There is a certain magic in art. A whole Wizard of Oz unfolding from creation to presentation. The magician is not just the artists themselves, but the institutions and collectors working hard to create spaces for this magic to be seen.

All parts play a crucial role in ensuring these timeless offerings are not forgotten about but experienced over and over again—even long after the artists themselves have gone. One of these institutions is OMA, the Oceanside Museum of Art. It’s a treasure here for the Oceanside Community. These collectors? Two specifically, Sandra and Bram Dijkstra, for the past two decades have engaged in adorning and curating the walls here at the OMA. From temporary installation to a week-long Plein Air festival, OMA is treating the community to its own kind of enchantment for the summer of 2023.

The current exhibition from the WPA era is on loan from art enthusiasts Bram and Sandra Dijkstra. With a history in academia, the Dijkstra’s approach art collecting from the nontraditional lens. With humility and enthusiasm, they seek art that they find beautiful. This quest is guided by a thirst for knowledge and the story behind the art, with their true passion being led by the historical significance and roots of the art itself.

This collection of WPA era art is no different. The WPA era artists were beneficiaries of the FDR administration that produced the Works Progress Administration. This government project incentivized

and invested in economic growth by putting artists to work. This project then resulted in a body of work that encapsulated human emotions and depicts an emphasis on the concerns on social justice.

These works are unique in that they represent an all inclusive pool of artists; from immigrants to the jewish, to women and black people alike, this collection of art speaks of the human experience and the realities of life’s richness, despite oppression that runs as a common current from generation to generation.

A hope by sharing this collection is to invite the public to reawaken to universal truths of life and to remember that even in the midst of hardship and suffering, the human capacity to create magnificent things can flourish.

From this meticulously curated in-house exhibition, OMA then leads the community outdoors. This summer, from July 15-22, they will be hosting the Oceanside Plein Air Festival, which loosely translates in English as Plain Air; meaning that for a whole week OMA is hosting over 200 artists to paint, draw, and create their works in real time.

This is truly a gift for both the artists and the community of Oceanside. This festival offers a space where artists can not only lap in the creative splash of one another, but where people not of the art world can also indulge in the delicacy of the creative process.

Bookending the festival on the 15th and 22nd of July are big celebratory moments at OMA, with the culmination of the week ending in a voting

William Newport Goodell (1908-1999), Under the Sign of Ballantine, 1942.

Harry Sternberg (1904-2001), Coalminer and Family, 1938.

William Gropper (1897-1978), Hostages, aka The Invaders, c. 1942.

panel on the week's creations. A noteworthy part of the closing day is the easel sale. This is where the artists actually sell their paintings from the week: of the Pier, the sunset, the mission, and of other Oceanside sights and monuments.

During the week, there will be workshops to attend and, even at night, the Members Only Car Club will roll, bounce, and cruise to OMA to create a whole integrative art explosion.

A complete schedule of events can be found on their website at oma-online.org. With a loaded summer menu covering the spectrum of all shades and hues, not just the sunshine in the sky, but the sunshine offered here, is truly something to soak in over these next few coastal California months.

For more info on Oceanside Museum of Art please visit oma-online.org or on Instagram @oceansidemuseum

ZACH CORDNER (3)

NOW BOOKING PRIVATE EVENTS

STEAMING - SHAPING - STIFFENING - WEATHER PROOFING

CUSTOM HAT BANDS - MONOGRAMMING - LASER ENGRAVING

Things You Didn't Know About

Oceanside’s popular micro-breweries, expanding “bar scene,” and speakeasies may be new to some, but even in its earliest days, there was a demand for a cold beer or a shot. In 1885, three years before we incorporated as a city, it was reported that new construction included a newspaper building, a real estate office, and a saloon. Four months later, Louis Gleichner opened a new saloon, doubling the drinking establishments.

1. By 1887, there were five saloons within a two-block radius and, by 1888, there were a total of thirteen saloons in town centered around a three-block radius with a population of 500 people (in comparison, there were just four churches).

In 1895, Carlsbad took notice when city officials failed to approve a new drinking establishment by saying, “Oceanside has won the favor of some of our citizens by not granting the license for another saloon. Hurrah for Oceanside! And may it continue in the good work.”

2. Despite the lopsided ratio of churches to saloons, the Women’s Christian Temperance Union spoke against the evils of drink and drunkenness (saloons often prohibited women). In 1904, the

group submitted a petition to the city stating: “We electors or taxpayers of the City of Oceanside, California, petition that the saloon ordinance be amended so as to provide that saloons shall be closed Sundays and that the license be raised to $100 per month.” In 1909, the city council enacted an ordinance which amounted to prohibition. “No bars, saloons, or other public places were allowed to handle liquor, this privilege being reserved for drug stores which only were allowed to issue intoxicants under a doctor's prescription.” In 1911, it was amended to allow restaurants and hotels to serve alcohol.

One of Oceanside’s most popular establishments was the Pepper Tree Inn located in the 200 block of North Tremont between 1911

and 1917. It was an open secret that alcohol was sold behind its closed doors and it was shut down more than once because it was denied the required license to sell it.

3. A year before the 21st Amendment of the Constitution repealed Prohibition on December 5, 1933, the Oceanside city council had three applications to sell alcohol in anticipation of the ruling. The Beach Hotel was likely one of the first establishments to be allowed to sell cocktails after prohibition was lifted, and local spots like Dave’s Café at the north end of Hill Street (Coast Highway) was a popular place for a cold one.

4. By the 1940s, the ban on alcohol was all but forgotten. World War II brought the establishment of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton and with it, thousands of thirsty Marines. Bars and nightclubs were in demand. Thelma Garrigan, an Oceanside native, returned from Honolulu after the bombing of Pearl Harbor and opened a grand establishment bearing her name. It offered a restaurant, live entertainment, a sizable dance floor, and the largest bar in the city. Her club was soon taken over, however, by “eminent domain” and the building used as the USO.

5. The Sportland Café and Bar located at 313 Second Street (Mission Avenue) appealed to outdoorsmen and apparently gun enthusiasts, as its walls were lined with rifles and pistols of all kinds as décor. It opened in 1948 and advertised itself as “a friendly place.”

6. In 1949, Clyde Truss and two partners opened The Normandy Café and Bar located at 217 North Hill Street (Coast Highway). It bore the same name as the hotel located on the second floor, which was established a year or two earlier.

7. When the Vitello brothers arrived from Cleveland, their alleged ties to “the mob” put the police on alert. They first purchased a liquor store in 1942

Marines having a drink at Garrigan’s, 1940s.

Sportland Cafe, late 1940s.

Phil's Cocktails, 1950s.

Things

You Didn't Know About

TEN Oceanside’s Early Bars and Drinking Establishments

located on Coast Highway and, in 1943, opened the Town House Café (a bar) at 406 Third Street (Pier View Way). In 1945, Leo Vitello applied for and received a license to sell alcohol at a restaurant called Casa Blanca, located at 117 North Hill Street (Coast Highway).

By 1953, the brothers owned three establishments, the Casa Blanca, the 404 Club, and Phil’s Place at 917 South Hill (Coast Highway). Ever under scrutiny, it was reported by the Oceanside Blade Tribune that the “Standley Commission had secured information that three brothers named Alfonso Vitello, Leo Philip Vitello, and Arthur Vitello, who lived in Oceanside were closely associated with the activities of the Mafia and were well acquainted with the hoodlum element not only in San Diego County, but in other areas throughout the state.” The report stated that “the Vitello’s were partners in the bar business in Oceanside and evidence indicated that they were engaging in large scale bookmaking operations in their taverns and that narcotics were being dispensed from their establishments.”

8. For those who wanted to keep a lower profile while enjoying a dance and a beer, the San Luis Rey Inn located just west of the Mission San Luis Rey was the spot. “Johnny and Nell” offered home-cooked food and Coors beer on tap. Dances were held on Friday and Saturday nights. Years later it was renamed the River Bottom and had quite the reputation as a “dive bar” with all the activities associated with such.

9. Other “classier” establishments included Diana’s bar in South Oceanside, owned by Al Vitello. Also located in South Oceanside was the Acapulco Gardens, owned and operated by Refugio and Juanita Rochin, at 1729 South Hill Street. The restaurant, which opened in 1950, served cocktails and was considered a “show place on the west coast.” The Rochin’s owned nearly an entire block, with a grocery store and meat market adjacent to their popular restaurant.

10. The Mira Mar Ship Room at 815 North Hill Street (Coast Highway) remained a popular cocktail lounge for two decades. Other well-known and long remembered drinking spots included Joe’s Place, the Capri, Denny’s Cafe, the Pour House, the Long Branch, the Copper Door, and the Dog House, along with dozens of others.

For more information about Oceanside’s history, please visit oceansidehistoricalsociety.org.

OPD at the River Bottom Bar, 1986.

Acapulco Gardens, 1950s.

The Normandy, 1955.

The Switchboard's Hailey Hammett putting the finishing touches on some perfect cocktails.

The Osider’s Happy Hour Guide

It’s summer! The most wonderful time in Oceanside! It’s time for sun, surf, friends, beach days, bike rides, and taking in all the goodness our beautiful city has to offer. Fortunately for everyone in Oceanside, we also have the best happy hour locations to make the days even more fun. The Osider compiled 12 awesome locations to suit every need, quench every palate, and make the day affordably savory. Enjoy!

WORDS: ELIZABETH SCHWARTZE PHOTOS: PRISCILLA IEZZI

Drink Special: Mango Margarita, Strawberry Margarita, Spicy Margarita ($5.75)

Food Special: Ceviche Tostada ($6), Choriquezo ($5.75), Nacho’s ($5.25), Calamari Taco ($2.50)

HH Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 4-6pm

HH Deals: $1 off pints & $2 off glasses of wine

Family-owned and operated for 50 years, Anita’s Mexican Restaurant & Cantina is a destination in its own right. The Alvarez family moved to the new location five years ago, featuring Mexicaninspired design with plenty of outdoor seating. Happy hour deals include their house margaritas, wine, beer, and delicious food offerings. The full menu is always a good choice for an authentic Mexican dining destination.

Address: 1714 S. Coast Hwy 101

Phone number: 760-722-6323

Website: anitasmexicanfoodrestaurant.com

Instagram: @anitasoceanside101

Drink Special: Modelo & White Zinfandel

Food Special: Breaded Fish Tacos ($4/taco), Peel & Eat Shrimp ($12.95), Coconut Shrimp ($14.95)

HH Hours: Daily 3-6pm (except holidays); Thursdays from 3pm-close

HH Deals: $7.95 house wines, $7.95 draft beers, and plenty of delicious food items.

The picturesque Lighthouse Oyster Bar & Grill overlooks beautiful Oceanside Harbor for an ideal oceanview HH experience. The locally-owned beachy casual atmosphere has been serving families for thirteen years. If oysters are your thing, Lighthouse is the place to enjoy them during HH, along with Oyster Mondays (lots of oyster deals), and $1.50 oysters on Thursday from 3pm-close.

Address: 262 Harbor Drive South

Phone number: 760-433-1900

Website: lighthouseoceanside.com

Instagram: @lighthouseoceanside

Drink Special: Long Island ($9) & Craft Draft Beer ($5.50)

Food Special: Sliders, Basket of Wings, Shrimp Cocktail (all $8.50)

HH Hours: Monday-Friday, 3-7pm; all day Wednesday

HH Deals: Margarita Mondays; Tuesday Half-Off Wings; Happy Hour All Day Wednesday; Thirsty Thursdays; Feel Good Fridays; $12 Burger/Brew Saturdays; Breakfast Served All Day Sundays

Since 1995, Rookies has been serving the public seven days/week as the ultimate sports bar in North County San Diego. With over 54 TV’s, it’s a mecca for sports, good food, great drink deals, and fun for all. Make sure to check out Bingo Night every Monday from 6-8pm. It’s a great destination for a sports-loving happy hour!

Address: 2216 S. El Camino Real, Suite 104

Phone number: 760-757-1123

Website: iloverookies.com

Instagram: @iloverookies

Lighthouse Oyster Bar & Grill

Anita’s Mexican Restaurant & Cantina

Rookies Sports Bar

Drink Special: Moscow Mule ($7) & Treevana IPA from Burgeon Brewery ($7)

Food Special: Fried Pickles, Pork Burger, Fried Chicken Sandwich, Wedge Caesar (all $7)

HH Hours: Monday-Friday, 2:30-5:30pm

HH Deals: All food & drinks $7

Flying Pig Pub & Kitchen is known for flip-flop fine dining that’s Chef inspired and neighbor approved! Family-owned and operated, the happy hour at this downtown spot is the perfect place to grab a seat outside, or inside the perfectly-curated restaurant. It’s comfort food with a southern flair that does happy hour right!

Address: 509 Mission Avenue

Phone number: 760-453-2940

Website: flyingpig.pub

Instagram: @flyingpigpubkitchen

Drink Special: Watermelon Margarita, Spicy Mango Margarita, Margarita on the Rocks, Draft Beer (all $5)

Food Special: Jumbo Hot Wings (12 signature flavors to choose from)

HH Hours: Daily from 4-7pm

HH Drink Deals: Draft beer, well drinks & house wines for $5

The Draft Restaurant & Sports Bar is described as “The greatest food ever!” The happy hour includes all draft beer, well drinks, and house wines for $5 from 4-7pm every single day! The Draft Chicken Wings are their signature dish that is fresh and prepared to order. It’s the perfect happy hour with friends to drink, eat good food, and to catch your favorite game.

Address: 4225 Oceanside Boulevard, Suite R Phone number: 760-631-4700

Website: thedraftoceanside.com

Instagram: @thedraft_oceanside

Drink Special: Eastside Ricky & Post Melon

Food Special: O’side Smashburger w/ Garlic Fries

HH Hours: Open to 6pm

HH Deals: $1 off draft, $3 off house specialty, $17 burger & a beer

Pour House Oceanside is an ideal HH destination in South Oceanside. Pour House revamped its menu, providing excellent food, and delectable drinks. The indoor vibe is an old-school bar, while the outdoor seating area is campy with comfortable picnic tables. Pour House has now become a live music destination, too! Check their calendar to catch a good show.

Address: 1903 S. Coast Hwy 101

Phone number: 760-730-5944

Website: pourhouseoceanside.com

Instagram: @pourhouseoceanside

Pour House

The Draft Restaurant & Sports Bar

Drink Special: Spicy Pineapple Margarita

Food Special: Enzo’s Spicy BBQ Wings, Enzo’s Smokehouse Nachos, Pulled Pork Fries

HH Hours: Monday-Friday, 2-6pm; Friday & Saturday, 8:30-10pm

HH Deals: $2 off draft & wine by the glass, $2 off wings, ½ off BBQ starters

Enzo’s Bar-B-Q is a lively location for happy hour with plenty of space for large parties. The food and the drinks are amazing, and deals are available throughout the week. Don’t miss their live music on Fridays and Saturdays.

Address: 4141 Oceanside Boulevard

Phone number: 760-643-9602

Website: enzosbbq.com

Instagram: @enzosbbqalehouse

Drink Special: Booze Brothers The Mariner IPA

Food Special: Privateer Fish Tacos

HH Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 4-6pm

HH Deals: $2 off fish tacos, $2 off meatballs, $2 off wings, $1 off all draft beer, $1 off house private label wines

Privateer Coal Fire Pizza is an independently-owned restaurant that has made a successful business by taking care of Oside, so it feels like home. Located in South Oceanside, it’s a convenient location for a HH date, or with a group of friends. Check out their live music on Wednesday nights and comedy Tuesdays at 7:30pm for the 18+ crowd.

Address: 1706 S. Coast Highway 101

Phone number: 760-453-2500

Website: theprivateercoalfirepizza.com

Instagram: @theprivateercoalfirepizza

Drink Special: Old School Mai Tai ($10), Switchboard Old-Fashioned ($10)

Food Special: Hawaiian Plate with Miso Honey Salmon ($12), and Hawaiian Plate with Beef Bulgogi ($12)

HH Hours: Daily, 3-6pm

HH Deals: $12 Hawaiian plate, $10 select cocktails

Established in 2020, The Switchboard touts

Hawaiian-inspired cuisine in a beautifully curated restaurant on the bottom floor of a historic hotel. The Switchboard is veteran-owned, and its name is a nod to its history as a communication center in World War II. Check out ½ off select bottles of wine on Wednesdays. They also serve breakfast every day from 6:30-11am.

Address: 131 South Coast Highway 101

Phone number: 442-266-2781

Website: theswitchboardrestaurant.com

Instagram: @the.switchboard.restaurant

The Privateer Coal Fire Pizza

The Switchboard Restaurant & Bar

Enzo’s Bar-B-Q

Drink Special: Oside Rider ($14), Miami Pound Machine ($14), Havana Good Time (in the flamingo $40)

Food Special: Jerk Chicken Nachos ($9), Coco Sliders ($10), Steak ($5) & Shrimp ($4) Street Tacos, Jerk BBQ Wings ($10)

HH Hours: Friday, 11:30am-4pm

It’s Friday! And, Cococabana with its picturesque rooftop bar is beckoning for a pacific happy hour. It’s the ideal location to kick off the weekend, and celebrate. Not to be missed, Cococabana offers bottomless mimosas on Saturdays and Sundays for $30 from 10am-3pm (limit 2 hours); and bottomless espresso martinis from 1-3pm. (limit 90 minutes). Reservations are recommended.

Address: 408 Pier View Way, Suite 401 (on the rooftop)

Phone number: 760-688-0195

Website: cococabanaoside.com

Instagram: @cococabanoside

Drink Special: House Margarita ($8) & Draft Beer

Food Special: T.J. Bacon Dog w/fries ($6), Nachos ($8)

HH Hours: Daily, 3-6pm

HH Deals: $1 off drafts, $2 tacos, $5 quesadilla, $6 T.J. bacon dog, $8 house margarita, $10 draft & 2 tacos

The bright colors, and clean lines of Senor Grubby’s screams happy hour! Tucked in downtown Oceanside, Senor Grubby’s is a sweet HH spot. Check out their Padres games with an all-new lineup of their famous Pawd Dawgs! Served at every Padres game, 1 for $7 or 2 for $12! House Margarita Monday $7 all day!

Address: 311 N. Tremont Street

Phone number: 760-721-6040

Website: eatgrubbys.com/oceanside-location

Instagram: @senorgrubbys

Drink Special: O’side Mai Tai, Draft Beer

Food Special: Cheese Pizza

HH Hours: Monday-Friday, 3-6pm

HH Deals: $8 slice & a select pint, $5 select craft beers, $5 well spirits, $7 select cocktail of the week

Fat Joe’s is the HH destination with something for everyone! There’s affordably delicious food, perfectly-priced drinks, TV’s for sports-watching, and a family-friendly arcade—all with coastal breezes! It’s a locals favorite, too, with all employees hailing from Oceanside! After five years of success, Fat Joe’s is under new management, which will only elevate its fun status.

Address: 424 South Coast Highway 101 Phone number: 760-722-5637

Website: fatjoesoceanside.com

Instagram: @fatjoesoside

Senor Grubby ’s Oceanside

Cococabana

Fat Joe’s Kitchen & Arcade

Situated amongst the hustle-and-bustle of SR-76, there is an oasis of twelve acres, 25 horses, and a thriving network of 1,100+ volunteers operating harmoniously at Ivey Ranch Park Association (IRPA).

Ivey Ranch Park Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit where the mission is dedicated to encouraging the social interaction of those of all ages, with and without disabilities, by providing care, educational, training, and recreational activities. The twelve acres comprises childcare and development centers, an equestrian park

with a therapeutic riding program, a memorial tree program, and a community garden. Their services include in-home respite care, Ivey Summer Camp, equine facilitated learning program, and Horses for Heroes.

The story of Ivey Ranch Park is a triumphant tale that began in 1981 where caring citizens wanted to make a difference for their children and, 42 years later, it’s a beacon of success and goodwill in Oceanside.

The historical Ivey Ranch House built in 1889

sits across from Mission San Luis Rey on what is now part of the City of Oceanside’s Historic Preservation Area. In 1981, the Ivey Ranch land was acquired by the City of Oceanside, which was The Year of The Disabled as proclaimed by the General Assembly and called for equalization of opportunities and rehabilitation of disabilities.

Under the guidance of a steering committee deciding how to utilize the land, “it was the Committee’s desire to develop a park that would provide a broad range of recreational and educational opportunities accessible to all. The facilities would reflect a sensitivity for the special needs of the disabled.”

So, on December 5, 1981, City of Oceanside Mayor Larry M. Bagley declared the land as parkland. As Danielly explains, “A group of loving parents had a vision and came together to dedicate the land to provide recreational programs to all the children in Oceanside—able-bodied or not.” Even though the City of Oceanside owns the land, the Ivey Ranch Park Association manages it and provides services.

Present-day, Ivey Ranch Park Association has held up their end of the agreement, and more! Since 1999, Tonya Danielly has been at the helm of Ivey Ranch Park Association as the Executive Director and has a wealth of knowledge and expertise.

According to Danielly, “The divorce rate is over 90% in families that have children with special needs. We try to step-up and be a comprehensive provider so a family can truly have a break.”

The Ivey Ranch House was built in 1889.

The ranch's barn cats help keep the mice population down.

Their services began with care programs, then in-home services, and in 2003, they received their first horse named Cassie. Cassie was the beginning of a successful and ongoing equine program. Ivey Ranch Park now has 25 horses and services up to 200 clients per week. Some of the diagnoses treated with their programming include autism spectrum, ADHD, Cerebral Palsy, developmental delay, anxiety, and PTSD.

Operating with a $1.25 million dollar budget, the return on investment is astounding. One of IRPA’s greatest accomplishments is that .96¢ of every dollar donated is returned to programming.

The most recent reported numbers for 20212022 include:

Total number of clients served: 823

68% of clients under 18 years old

32% of clients over 18 years old

12% of clients with a physical disability

70% of clients with a cognitive disability

18% of clients with both a physical and cognitive disability

51% of clients are male

49% of clients are female

Collectively, the 1,126 yearly volunteers have approximately 21,506 hours of service, including child care, therapy horseback riding lessons, ranch maintenance, and events. There are three full-time staff, 62 part-time staff, and 25 horses in service to their clients, ages 11-32 years old.

So much of Ivey Ranch’s success is to the credit of the volunteers because they are the heartbeat of the organization. Patrick Duffy is a regular volunteer who proudly wears a cowboy hat with horses on it.

“I’ve been coming every Tuesday and Thursday for two years,” Duffy said. “I love being around the horses. I get to muck, groom, feed them. I fix saddle stands, and the horse signage I’m really proud of. I used supplies available to me here on

the property. I love the people here, too. My favorite horses would be Teddy and Ariel.”

The board of directors includes ten board members and five advisory members that are subject experts in their field. Irene Diggs is both a board member and a volunteer regularly seen on the grounds. Diggs first arrived via a service learning project through her employment at CSUSM and explains, “Ivey Ranch is my heart and my

passion. All the good that happens here enhances my life for the past five years, and I just want to give back.”

Two barns house the 25 horses and almost all of the horses are donated. There is a thorough vetting process to ensure the horse is a good fit for IRPA’s therapeutic programs. Each horse has a story and a name, and their adorable profiles are featured on the website. All the horse instructors

are PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship) certified. Along with the horses, the property includes four barn cats that help with the “mousing” maintenance. There are the “south side” cats: Freddy, and Bugsy; and the “north side” cats: Mama, and Miso.

It truly is a twelve-acre oasis with something for everyone. At the eastern side of the property, there is a community garden that started 30 years ago. The community garden contains 36 plots that can be rented for $300/ year.

One of the main opportunities to support IRPA is to attend the annual fundraiser. The Ivey Ranch Park Association’s biggest fundraiser is The Western Hoedown. This year, the 13th Annual Western Hoedown will be held on Saturday, October 14, 2023 from 3-7pm. The event is catered by Outback Steakhouse. There will be therapy and vaulting demonstrations, flags by ROTC, a kid’s carnival, and a raffle. The event is described as “a really fun afternoon for the whole family.”

Located at 110 Rancho Del Oro Drive (across from Mission San Luis Rey), it’s well worth a visit to understand the beauty of the space, and the overall contentment achieved through Ivey Ranch Park Association’s programming. Don’t be surprised to find a haven where volunteers, clients, and horses coexist in an oasis in the middle of a thriving city. IRPA is a City of Oceanside success story that began in 1981, and will undoubtedly go on in perpetuity because it’s rooted in doing what is best for the community.

For more info on Ivey Ranch Park visit: iveyranch.com or on Instagram @ivey_ranch_park

CARLSBAD: 3055 Harding St.

Hours 9am-9:30pm Sat-Sun open at 8am

OCEANSIDE: 125 Old Grove Rd. #8

Hours 9am-9pm Sat-Sun open at 8am

Order online and save time: POLLOSMARIA.COM

For catering Info call (760) 707-7665

NOW

OCEANSIDE’S SKATE COMMUNITY HONORED

PRINCE MEMORIAL SKATE PARK

WORDS: ELIZABETH SCHWARTZE

Renee Johnson, mother of Michael "Prince" Johnson.

The renaming of one of Oceanside’s most famous outdoor landmarks is not just a beautiful opportunity to memorialize a beloved member of the community, Michael “Prince” Johnson, but it is a win for all of Oceanside. When the citizens of Oceanside ban together, and stay the course, the City of Oceanside did what is best for the community. City officials renamed Alex Road Skatepark to Prince Memorial Skatepark on May 13, 2023, in a formal dedication and celebration.

According to the city, “Prince Memorial Park—one of the best skateparks in San Diego county—was renamed in honor of Michael ‘Prince’ Johnson, who was considered by many as one of the most accomplished skateboarders from Oceanside, and was viewed as a friend and role model to younger skaters.”

In the years leading up to the opening, expectations were high during the construction of a state-of-the-art skatepark in Oceanside on Alex

Road and Foussat. The anticipation of the 22,700 sq. ft. concrete skatepark set to open in 2013 was the talk of the skate community. Tragically, beloved skate community member, Michael “Prince” Johnson, died just one month shy of the grand opening. The skate community was devastated.

According to Josh Carson, “Prince was one of the best skaters in the group with so much talent.” At just 25 years of age, he was a natural talent that was gone too soon. The skate community felt it was important to memorialize Prince. However, when Alex Road Skatepark opened in 2013, people asked, “Who is Alex Road?”

Carson exclaimed, “It’s never been called Alex Road Skatepark!” The best solution was to name it after a beloved member of the skate community, but that battle was more difficult than Carson anticipated.

It took seven years of lobbying when Carson

almost lost hope. Thankfully, Micaela Ramirez, President and Founder of Poseidon Foundation, offered a helping hand. She built a bridge for open communication with the city. The skaters and Poseidon Foundation had a few requests, including proper sanitation, running water, and shade, along with the renaming of the park.

The state of the park was less than desirable. There was no running water, as Josh Carson explains, “so little kids would cross 76 to get water at Circle K. The bathrooms were the worst bathrooms I’ve ever seen. This is a community of love, and some of these kids come to the park all day, just to escape, and do something positive. So, we need to do better for them.”

When the city took notice in 2020, toured the facility and noted the unacceptable conditions, change happened. The physical enhancements were a huge win and the renaming of the park was the grand prize. The hard work paid off for Josh Carson and his skate crew.

“When they came to see it, I think the city understood how valuable this space is, that we’re a community of love. When we leave, we say I love you - stay safe. We say that because it’s like family,” Carson emphasizes happily.

So, it’s official! On May 13, in front of hundreds of attendees, the ribbon was triumphantly cut on Prince Memorial Skatepark by Mayor Esther Sanchez and Prince’s mother, Renee Johnson. It will forever be named after one of Oceanside’s own.

Renee Johnson, proudly says, “We’re very honored because he [Michael Prince] was a very important icon in the City of Oceanside, especially the skate community. So, we’re both thrilled and honored. We miss him every day, and the skate park is the memorial he deserves.”

Prince Memorial Skate Park is located at the corner of Alex Rd. and Foussat Rd.

LARENCE TANJUAQUIO

MORT HUNTER

MORT HUNTER

Ribbon cutting ceremony (L-R) : Mayor Esther Sanchez, Renee Johnson, Micaela Ramirez and City Council member Eric Joyce.

Owning a car is a lot like owning a surfboard. When you first purchase it, it's perfect. You tend to keep it clean, polished, and looking its best. But, what happens when you get that first ding on your board? Much like your car, it can be devastating to see your perfect ride in less than stellar condition.

That’s where Igor Lumertz and PCH Dent Repair come to the rescue. Their state-of-the-art

PCH DENT REPAIR

paintless dent repair can get you back on the road and looking clean in no time. The best part is there are no fillers or bondo used in the process. So, there is no need to try to match paint and spend more cash than needed on new panels or parts.

His topnotch staff is ARC certified and can help expedite your insurance on the spot. Their new facility is located right here in Oceanside and, with over a decade of experience, you can bet on quality work with a family approach to every job that they do.

I recently had a mishap with my car and completely dented my driver’s side door. I thought to myself, “this really sucks, my nice new car is forever damaged and is going to cost me thousands to replace the whole door panel.” Then, I remembered this is what my friend Igor does for a living. I immediately reached out and the process was so easy.

Next thing you know, I dropped off my precious car and, in less than a day, my ride is back to looking clean and ready for its next adventure. Thank you for keeping me on the road and looking sharp, PCH Dent Repair. You guys are the best.

WORDS: JAMEY STONE PHOTOS: ZACH CORDNER

Owner, Igor Lumertz

THROWBACK GAMEZ

WORDS: ERIC KLIER

PHOTOS: ZACH CORDNER

Throwback Gamez is a one stop gaming shop with new and used video games, gaming consoles, and much more.

Owner, Manny Mimoso, has always had a passion for gaming and even left a secure, wellpaying job to start his business. Moving to North County seven years ago from Baltimore, Manny opened his doors in March 2020, unfortunately right when the pandemic hit. Not detoured, he started doing deliveries and curbside pick ups to make it through those tough times.

“The community has really rallied behind us. When we had a break in, we had friends, family, and customers come in and give us so much support,” Manny said.

Manny also has had unbelievable support from his girlfriend, Leslie Shoultz, who helps run

the store, as well. Throwback Gamez also has an incredible staff who are very knowledgeable and can help you with any questions you have, whether it's about Pokemon cards or Nintendo—they got you covered.

With such an incredible and expansive inventory, it’s amazing they know everything in the store like the back of their hand. With so much inventory, Manny is opening another store in the Carlsbad Mall coming soon. They also repair consoles and controllers for games, new and old, and disc resurfacing which are all backed by warranty.

Throwback Gamez is located in South Oceanside on Vista Way near Coast Highway. So, if you are looking to buy, sell, or trade, or want to feel and see some nostalgia from your youth, then look no further than Throwback Gamez.

Owner, Manny Mimoso

Dining: Inland

HIMALAYAN BISTRO

We were thrilled to hear of a new Himalayan restaurant serving authentic Indian and Nepali food in the bustling shopping center at College and Oceanside Blvd near Aldi. We simply love that region's food, and while very similar to Indian, Nepalese cuisine is quite different and completely delicious all on its own.

We were happy to sit down with Drona Acharya, the manager of the family owned Himalayan Bistro, to chat about their unique new place, as well as taste some of their more popular dishes.

Drona was kind enough to share some of

their favorites with us and frankly, it was all just amazing! We started our meal with some vegetable samosas, which are two large savory pastries filled with spiced potatoes and green peas fried to a gentle crisp–they were so good.

For another appetizer, we had the Onion Bhaji and if you like onion rings, these will take everything to a whole new level. We shared Tandoori Chicken Wings, which were their take on a classic we are all familiar with. The wings had the standard bright Tandoori red color as they are marinated overnight with yogurt and special Himalayan spices, then cooked in a tandoori oven and served steaming on a skillet with cabbage, carrot, and grilled onions. These were surprisingly flavorful, but not your typical buffalo wings—they were much better!

As a special beverage they served us a Mango Lassi, which I had never had, but I’m so glad I did! Think of a silky and tasty mango smoothie. It’s made with yogurt, so it’s healthier for you, right?

The delicacies just kept coming with Aloo Gobi up next, which consists of cauliflower and potatoes beautifully cooked with onion in a tomato sauce and more Himalayan spices. This simple dish is so flavorful and different, and a perfect side to the stunning Nepalese Chicken Chilli which boasts perfectly pan fried chicken with bell pepper, fresh tomato, and onion all perfectly combined to create an irresistible medley of flavors. So distinctive and zesty, I couldn’t stop eating it!

Same goes for the Chicken Chow Mein. Let me tell you, this is not your typical Chinese style chow mein. This is something else completely… the light, but tangy sauciness, the vegetables and the noodles, all of it just knocked our socks off. It was my favorite second to the Chicken Tikka

Masala, which was epic and the star of the evening for me. This Chicken Tikka was so perfect, thick and creamy, I was equally thrilled to warm up the leftovers the next day with some of their amazing cheese naan bread, and it was even better!

I must mention their specialty Nepalese dumplings, Momos, as they are absolutely scrumptious. Essentially, they are steamed dumplings filled with a concoction of spiced minced chicken, onion, and cilantro. They are served with their version of a pureed salsa that brings out even more flavor to the Momos. They are just so exquisite and somehow so light that I could eat a dozen!

Momos are also special to us because our pet potbelly pig is named after them! When we got him, our Nepalese friend, Archana, came over to celebrate his arrival with her famous pork dumplings. We took one look at that four-pound baby pig and knew his name had to be none other than Momo.

Overall, the Himalayan Bistro is a wonderful new spot with great service to try anytime with anyone! It’s different, yes, but it is so delicious that it’s definitely worth a try and there is something for everyone on the lengthy menu. Vegetarians will be extra excited to check out all of their veggie options as well.

Their portions are good sized and while it may seem a bit pricey, it’s important to note that all of their food including sauces, curries, and breads are handmade with fresh ingredients, making it more than worth it. We think you’ll be so surprised by the tastes, you won’t be able to resist coming back for more.

WORDS: ALONDRA FIGUEROA PHOTOS: ZACH CORDNER

Tandoori Chicken Wings, Aloo Gobi, and Chicken Tikka with a Mango Lassi.

Chicken Chow Mein

Manager, Drona Archarya

Onion Bhaji with Vegetable Samosas

Dining: Coastal

COCOCABANA

Walking into Cococabana feels like stepping into a mini-Carribean vacation. The Pacific ocean sparkles in the distance and the sun tingles your skin, while a light breeze sways the succulents dripping from the restaurant’s slatted wood roof. The smell of exotic spices and roasting meats wafts through the air, and you can’t help but relax into this little slice of rooftop paradise.

And, if the smells, vibrant colors, and tropical landscaping don’t do it for you, the drinks certainly will.

Beverage Manager, Tony Prosper, greets us with a Caribe Welcome, one of Cococabana’s signature drinks, inspired by the Caribe Hilton of Puerto Rico that famously invented the piña colada. Coco’s Caribe Welcome is a play on the piña colada, using apricot brandy instead of the traditional pineapple for more nuanced sweetness. It’s cold and refreshing, bursting with layers of coconut flavor and served in a chilled coconut. Hello, vacation!

The super instagrammable Havana Good Time cocktail is another must-try. It’s a doozy of a drink that’s easily shareable amongst three to four people, served in a giant rose gold flamingo (which, sadly, is not for sale…yes, we asked). It’s light and effervescent, with fruity guava and fresh citrusy notes, spiked with kombucha (so it’s practically a health drink, right?!). We also tried Tony’s favorite drink on the menu—the Miami Pound Machine, a.k.a. their riff on a tequila mai tai. Served over crushed ice, the layered rum and fresh passion fruit juice packs a boozy punch. It’s sweet and strong, and goes down way too easily under the afternoon sun.

Though a popular destination for drinks, the food at Cococabana is not to be missed. The menu draws from Chef Quniton Auston’s New Orleans upbringing, pulling from the city’s melting

pot of Jamaican, Creole, and Haitian influences to create Cococabana’s unique Caribbean flavors. The result is a menu of small plates that activate every taste bud through the counterplay of fresh, zesty, sweet, and spicy flavors.

One of the ways they do this is through Coco’s secret culinary weapon: their charcoal Josper grill. Imported from Spain, this Basque bad boy allows the chefs to easily adjust the grill’s racks, ensuring every piece gets the perfect amount of heat and smoky charcoal flavor.

This method shines through with their tenderloin skewers. They are melt-in-your-mouth tender, savory with plenty of crunchy charred bits, but also slightly sweet from the brown sugar-lime marinade. The dish is finished with blistered peppers and onions, and served with potato wedges done exactly the way they should be— crispy, salty with a spicy paprika kick, and creamy on the inside.

Their house burger, while not Caribbean, gives backyard barbecue vibes, evoking nostalgic summertime memories. Served on a sesame bun slathered with a house-sauce that may even rival In-N-Out’s, the beefy patty has plenty of flamelicked crispy edges. It’s smothered in cheddar cheese and wrapped in smoky bacon, which serves to seal in the patty’s juices.

The pulpo ceviche is the perfect counterpart to their hearty burger. The octopus is poached until incredibly tender, and in each bite, the heat of jerk spices is met by the acidic tingle of pickled red onions, juicy chunks of ripe mango relish, and herby microgreens.

Luckily for us, Cococabana has recently expanded their hours for summer. They’re open seven days a week, starting at 11:30am on weekdays

and 10am on weekends for bottomless mimosas and brunch. They’ve just launched an all-day Friday happy hour, including offerings like jerkspiced wings, sliders, and a delicious mango-goat cheese salad. They also do a killer Taco Tuesday with not-so-typical tacos including grilled jerk chicken, cauliflower, or pulpo served with rice and beans, not to mention beer and cocktail specials to boot ($7 mezcal margarita, anyone?).

What we like best about Coco is their local love. Not only do they offer 25% off drink tabs everyday with an Oside ID, they offer a whopping 50% off drinks for locals on Mondays. So yeah, safe to say Cococabana has easily become our new favorite watering hole!

Cococabana is a welcome addition to downtown Oceanside, and we’re thankful that Chef Q is fighting “food fatigue” to bring O’side exciting, bright flavors, alive with what he calls “a bit of twang.”

Cococabana

408 Pier View Way, Suite 401 (760) 688-0195

cococabanaoside.com @cococabanaoside

WORDS: KATIE TRIPPE

PHOTOS: LEAH LEE

Pulpo Ceviche

House Burger

Dining: Coastal

CORNER PIZZA

WORDS: BRANDON PARKS

PHOTOS: ZACH CORDNER

Corner Pizza is an appreciation for quality, experience, and the community that enjoys it. It is a New York-style pizzeria with a focus on thoughtfully-sourced ingredients and simple, innovative recipes.

Offering a wide variety of both familiar and exciting takes on pizza, a raw bar of fresh oysters from Baja to Canada, and a contemporary wine list curated from all the right places, it is clear that Corner Pizza shares a passion for unique and memorable dining experiences. The harmony of both their traditional and unconventional approach to pizza lies in their love for flavor, craft, and a culture that brings it all together.

Corner Pizza offers traditional-style pizzas like a Margherita Burrata, Pepperoni, or T-Rex (meat lovers with jalapeno), alongside signature pies that may inspire pizza lovers and chefs alike. Their must-try is the “Killer Bee,” which is pepperoni, soppressata, rosemary, and gorgonzola topped with chili honey; a savory, sweet, slightly spicy pie that is sure to awaken long-dormant taste buds.

Other standouts include the “Mushroom Queen,” which is topped with fresh arugula tossed in lemon juice and truffle oil, or their “Forbidden Pizza” which is a Hawaiian-style pizza in theory,

but with house-made carnitas, jalapeno, pineapple, and pickled red onions. Yum! A thin and crispy New York pizza, with added styles for the culinary adventurous. Whatever your taste, the friendly and passionate staff will be eager to guide you through their favorites.

Located on the corner of South Freeman Street and Vista Way, Corner Pizza is one of the restaurants that is part of the “Freeman Collective,” the highly-anticipated development that is bringing a summer block party vibe to the South “O” neighborhoods.

The interior is bright and spacious, courtesy of the large, mid-century windows that wrap around the building, as well as the garage doors that open out to the patio. Behind the bar is an elegant wall of curved wood that displays their wine selection, as well as a tap system for their local craft beer selection. There is an open kitchen that offers an exciting display of the staff at work; hand-stretching, topping, and tossing pies into the oven, as well as a pass-through window to accommodate pizzas for the guests at Artifex, the brewery tasting room right next door.

Brightening up the clean and sophisticated atmosphere are murals by local artists, Taylor

Chapin and Joel Kaneshiro, that are playful, fun, and unique. On Wednesday and Thursday nights, local DJs “Abbey Normal” and “DJ Lexicon Devil” spin vinyl that add a tasteful, well-curated selection of music to the restaurant.

Without a doubt, Corner Pizza is a fun, eclectic place to dine on any evening, a welcome neighborhood spot to appreciate quality food and the company of friends. Summer has arrived, and with it, exciting new places to try that continue to add to the diverse, unique, and authentic culinary community that is Oceanside.

Padrino Salad with Meatballs

Oysters with a Margarita Burrata pizza

Comedy Tuesdays weekly with host Heather Brown

Bar & Restaurant Guide

THE OSIDER

JULY / AUGUST 2023

BAKERIES/DONUTS

101 BAGELS & SUBS

323 North Coast Hwy. (760) 421-6555

THE FAMOUS HIGH-PIE

250 N Pacific St.

HILL STREET DONUT HOUSE

1926 South Coast Hwy. (760) 439-7741

LA PERLA TAPATIA

1910 Mission Ave. (760) 721-8486

LE RENDEZ-VOUS FRENCH BAKERY

4225 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 414-9109

MISSION DONUT HOUSE

1502 Mission Ave. (760) 757-2979

MR. DONUTS

1950 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 967-6508

O'SIDE BAKERY

3815 Mission Ave. Suite 101 (760) 305-9500

PETITE MADELINE BAKERY

223 North Coast Hwy. (760) 231-7300

PARLOR DOUGHNUTS

331 N Cleveland St. (760) 231-5150

SAM’S DONUT SHOP

3504 College Blvd. Suite A (760) 945-0416

SK’S DONUTS

1129 South Coast Hwy. (760) 722-0455

SAN LUIS REY BAKERY & RESTAURANT

490 North El Camino Real (760) 433-7242

BAR AND GRILLS

19TEN OCEANSIDE

1910 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 730-5199

BEERTOWN

507 N Coast Hwy. (760) 826-2337

COCOCABANA

408 Pier View Way (760) 688-0195

THE DRAFT RESTAURANT & SPORTS BAR

4225 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 631-4700

FAIRWAYS KITCHEN & BAR

5201 Village Drive (760) 967-8400

FAT JOE’S O’SIDE 424 S Coast Hwy. (760) 722-5637

FRANKIE'S 406 Pier View Way (442) 266-2270

ANGELINA'S BAR & GRILL

3375 Mission Ave. (760) 433-5086

JUNKYARD GRILL & SPORTS BAR

3613 Ocean Ranch Blvd. (760) 231-6600

KNVS BAR 127 South Coast Hwy. (442) 655-9851

MISSION AVE. BAR & GRILL 711 Mission Ave. (760) 637–2222

OSIDE SPORTSBAR & GRILL 113 South Coast Hwy. (760) 722-5968

PACIFIC COAST SPIRITS

404 South Coast Hwy. (760) 453-7150

PCH SPORTS BAR & GRILL

1835 South Coast Hwy.

(760) 721-3955

RED ROOSTER

1985 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 754-8383

ROOKIE’S SPORTS GRILL

2216 South El Camino Real (760) 757-1123

TONY’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL 274 South Harbor Drive (760) 433-8466

BBQ

ENZO'S BBQ & ALEHOUSE

4111 Oceanside Boulevard (760) 643-9602

FELIX’S BBQ WITH SOUL

3613 Ocean Ranch Blvd.

(760) 439-7072

GUAHAN GRILL

4259 Oceanside Blvd.

(760) 806-4826

HERITAGE BREWERY & BBQ

2002 South Coast Highway

PRIMO FOODS

606 Morse Street (760) 439-8711

BREAKFAST DINERS AND CAFÉS

101 CAFÉ

631 South Coast Hwy. (760) 722-5220

BEACHBREAK CAFÉ

1802 South Coast Hwy. (760) 439-6355 beachbreakcafe.net

THE BUNKER HOUSE CAFÉ

322 North Cleveland Street (760) 400-0520

COME ON OVER CAFÉ

2405 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 201-3393

THE BROKEN YOLK CAFE 2434 Vista Way (760) 967-9655

THE BREAKFAST MUG

1401 South El Camino Real (760) 231-1010

BUCCANEER CAFÉ

1508 South Pacific Street (760) 966-1804

DON’S COUNTRY KITCHEN

1938 South Coast Hwy. (760) 722-7337

ELENA'S CAFE FRENCH CREPES

511 Pier View Way (240) 644-3205

GRANDMA’S RESTAURANT

3613 Ocean Ranch Blvd (760) 757-8777

HARBOR HOUSE CAFÉ 714 North Coast Hwy. (760) 722-2254

HIGH/LOW 201 North Myers Street (760) 512-3329

LE CITRON 524 S Coast Hwy (760) 696-3737

MARY’S FAMILY RESTAURANT

307 North Coast Hwy. (760) 722-3052

PIPER

105 Mission Avenue (760) 512-3816

START FRESH CAFÉ

1034 South Coast Hwy. (760) 439-7940

STRATFORD AT THE HARBOR

280 South Harbor Drive (760) 453-2073

SWAMI’S CAFÉ

202 North Coast Hwy. (760) 966-1203

RYES & GRIND

236 South Coast Hwy.

TOASTED GASTROBRUNCH

339 North Cleveland Street (760) 836-0500

BREWERIES/TAP ROOMS

BAGBY BEER COMPANY

601 South Coast Hwy. (760) 270-9075

BELCHING BEAVER BREWERY

1334 Rocky Point Drive (760) 599-5832

BLACK PLAGUE BREWING 2550 Jason Court (760) 631-8110

BOOZE BROTHERS BREWERY 606 Mission Ave. (760) 385-3973

BREAKWATER BREWING 101 North Coast Hwy. (760) 433-6064

CRAFT COAST BREWING 275 Mission Ave. (760) 231-1432

KILOWATT BREWING OCEANSIDE TAPROOM & PROVISIONS 406 Mission Ave. (760) 231-1997

NORTHERN PINE BREWING 326 N. Horne St. (760) 754-1434

OCEANSIDE ALE WORKS 1800 Ord Way (760) 295-0731

OCEANSIDE BREWING COMPANY

312-314 Via Del Norte (760) 453-7900

POUR HOUSE 1903 South Coast Hwy. (760) 730-5944

SOUTH O BREWING COMPANY

1575 South Coast Hwy. (442) 266-8244

STONE COMPANY STORE 310 North Tremont Street (760) 529-0002

TAP THAT 3207 Roymar Road Suite E (760) 433-4827

TIPPING PINT BREWING 3229 Roymar Road (760) 586-2898

BURGERS

ANGELO’S BURGERS 621 North Coast Hwy. (760) 757-5161

ANGELO’S BURGERS

1050 South Coast Hwy. (760) 757-4064

ANGELO’S BURGERS

2035 South Coast Hwy. (760) 757-4064

THE HABIT BURGER GRILL

2267 South El Camino Real (760) 433-3390

PAUL’S PLACE

3671 Mission Ave. (760) 721-0124

PIT STOP DINER

3825 Mission Ave. (760) 901-4299

TY’S BURGER HOUSE

515 Mission Street (760) 757-5890

CHICKEN SHOP

ANGRY CHICKZ

612 Mission Ave (442) 266-2167

DAVE'S HOT CHICKEN 4201 Oceanside Blvd Ste A (442) 291-1830

CHINESE

CHIN’S SZECHWAN CUISINE 4140 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 631-4808

CHINA FUSION

4225 Oceanside Blvd (760) 726-8888

2530 Vista Way, Ste J (760) 283-8888

CHU’S QUIK WOK 815 College Blvd. (760) 726-7771

GREAT WOK OF CHINA

4635 Frazee Road (760) 439-8939

PICK UP STIX

125 Old Grove Road (760) 967-4081

QUIK WOK

2184 Vista Way (760) 439-2228

COFFEE/TEA/JUICE

BANANA DANG

115 South Coast Hwy. (760) 846-0162

BLISS TEA & TREATS

301 Mission Ave. (442) 500-4796

BLACK ROCK COFFEE BAR

1918 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 722-7133

BOUND COFFEE COMPANY

2110 S Coast Hwy Suite C (442) 266-2259

BROWN CUP

401 North Coast Hwy. (760) 231-7968

TZONE

318 Pier View Way (760) 299-5678

CAMP COFFEE COMPANY

101 N Cleveland Street (442) 266-2504

CAPTAIN’S GROUNDS COFFEE

1832 South Coast Hwy. (760) 522-4271

COATL COFFEE

105 Copperwood Way Ste. B (833) 332-6285

COMMUNAL 602 South Tremont St. (619) 376-5710

THE CUP

206 Wisconsin Ave. (760) 231-9817

EVERBOWL 2535 Vista Way (760) 754-1572

JB JUICE & COFFEE

4635 Frazee Road (760) 529-0807

JITTERS COFFEE PUB

510 North Coast Hwy. (760) 967-7886

LIVING TEA BREWERY & TASTING ROOM

302 Wisconsin Ave (760) 231-9986

LOLLICUP

4121 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 295-0824

NAUTICAL BEAN COFFEE CO.

240 Harbor Drive South (760) 722-4851

NORTH COUNTY ROASTERY

129 South Coast Hwy.

PIER VIEW COFFEE COMPANY

300 Pier View Way (760) 966-1150

PLANTOLOGY CAFE 913 South Coast Hwy. (760) 805-3258

ROOTS CRAFT JUICE 631 South Cleveland St

TAPIOCA EXPRESS

2611 Vista Way (760) 722-8279

REVOLUTION ROASTERS

1836 South Coast Hwy.

(760) 529-9736

DELI/SANDWICHES

101 BAGELS & SUBS

323 North Coast Hwy. (760) 421-6555

BEACH HUT DELI

280 Mission Ave. (760) 529-9767

BOARD & BREW

2213 S El Camino Real (760) 688-9217

THE CHEESESTEAK GRILL

1771 South Oceanside Blvd. (760) 529-0077

CREAM OF THE CROP

2009 South Coast Hwy. (760) 433-2757 creamofthecropnatural.com

HARBOR PELICAN

1380 North Pacific Street (760) 722-5853

I LOVE BAGELS CAFE 3910 Vista Way (760) 945-3838

JERSEY MIKE'S

302 Mission Ave (760) 435-0783

NAEGI

1902 South Coast Hwy.

RYES & GRIND

236 South Coast Hwy.

SUBMARINA

3809 Plaza Drive (760) 945-7840

Z-MARKET 3200 Mission Ave. (760) 967-2184

FILIPINO

MISSION ASIAN MARKET

3320 Mission Ave. (760) 722-8024

GASTROPUB

FLYING PIG PUB & KITCHEN 509 Mission Ave. (760) 453-2940

LOCAL TAP HOUSE 308 South Coast Hwy. (760) 547-1469

MASTERS KITCHEN AND COCKTAIL 208 South Coast Hwy. (760) 231-6278

ROSEWOOD KITCHEN

608 Mission Ave. (760) 231-5886

HAWAIIAN

L&L HAWAIIAN BARBECUE 510 Oceanside Blvd. Ste 102 (760) 231-1142

HOMESTYLE HAWAIIAN 1950 Oceanside Blvd. Suite R (760) 696-3030

L&L HAWAIIAN BARBECUE 4225 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 726-0888

MAUI HAWAIIAN BBQ 2455 Vista Way (760) 722-8383

OHANA HAWAIIAN BBQ 459 College Blvd. (760) 630-6800

THE SWITCHBOARD 131 South Coast Hwy. (442) 266-2781

ICE CREAM/FROZEN YOGURT BASKIN ROBBINS 1112 South Coast Hwy. (760) 722-0654

DISFRUTA 610 N Redondo Drive (760) 583-5681

FRUGOS YOGURT 3509 Cannon Road (760) 732-1000

FUGU TAIYAKI 410 Mission Ave. (760) 696-3366

HANDEL'S HOMEMADE ICE CREAM 228 North Coast Hwy. (442) 266-8552

LA MICHOACANA PLUS 1060 Mission Ave. (760) 696-3602

MENCHIE'S FROZEN YOGURT 2525C Vista Way (760) 730-5728

NANA AND POP’S SWEET SHOP 280 Harbor Drive (760) 722-1723

OCEAN RAINBOW 3784 Mission Ave. (760) 435-0750

RED CUP FROZEN YOGURT 301 Mission Ave. (760) 637-2189

RICOS ANTOJITOS 3753 Mission Ave. (760) 231-7793

INDIAN

CURRY & MORE 600 Mission Ave. (442) 266-8366

TURMERIC HUT 125 Old Grove Rd. Suite 4 (760) 470-3415

Bar & Restaurant Guide

THE OSIDER JULY / AUGUST 2023

INDONESIAN

DIJA MARA

232 S. Coast Hwy. (760) 231-5376

ITALIAN/PIZZA

ALLMINE

119 South Coast Hwy. (760) 966-6888

BEST PIZZA & BREW

OCEANSIDE

1639 S Coast Hwy. (760) 435-1000

BIG BOB’S BEST PIZZA

3617 Ocean Ranch Blvd. (760) 231-5050

BLADE 1936

401 Seagaze Drive (760) 231-1456

BROOKLYN BOYZ PIZZA

2183 Vista Way (760) 757-4992

CORNER PIZZA

1940 S. Freeman St. (760) 231-9002

CUSIMANO’S PIZZERIA

3809 Plaza Drive (760) 414-1200

DOMINIC’S AT THE HARBOR

RESTAURANT & PIZZERIA

268 Harbor Drive South (760) 754-1881

FRATELLI’S

3915 Mission Ave. (760) 696-9007

GIANNI’S PIZZA

3910 West Vista Way (760) 724-2670

GRAZIANO'S PIZZARIA 101 Old Grove Road (760) 231-5990

KILLER PIZZA FROM MARS

3772 Mission Ave. (760) 722-6060

KNOCKOUT PIZZA

401 Mission Ave. (760) 722-8888

MANGIA E BEVI

3613 Ocean Ranch Blvd. (760) 231-1225

MOUNTAIN MIKE’S PIZZA

455 College Blvd. (760) 295-3121

THE PRIVATEER COAL FIRE PIZZA

1706 Pacific Coast Hwy. (760) 453-2500 theprivateercoalfirepizza.com

ROMA’S PIZZA & GRILL

617 North Redondo Drive (760) 757-2003

ROUND TABLE PIZZA

3440 Marron Road (760) 434-5977

TONY PEPPERONI PIZZERIA 805 College Blvd. (760) 726-6400

TWO BROTHERS FROM ITALY 4760 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 758-3638

1001 South Coast Hwy. (760) 758-3638

UPPER CRUST PIZZA 4196 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 630-9330

VENETOS 608 North Coast Hwy. (760) 722-1228

ZIGZAG PIZZA 333 North Myers Street (760) 433-1555

JAMAICAN

ONE LOVE ISLAND CUISINE 4225 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 685-4618

JAPANESE/SUSHI/POKE

CAFÉ DE THAI & SUSHI

4196 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 945-5533

GO GO JAPAN SUSHI 4121 Oceanside Blvd (760) 630-1288

HARNEY SUSHI 301 Mission Ave (760) 967-1820 harneysushi.com

KAMPAI SUSHI

1906 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 757-1484

KYOTO'S JAPANESE MARKET 559 Greenbrier Drive (760) 757-5456

LOVE BOAT SUSHI 125 Old Grove Road (760) 721-3737

MATSU 626 South Tremont Street (760) 231-6331

POKI POKI 3480 Marron Road (760) 295-9086

POKI POKI #2

4140 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 295-4924

RISING SUN SUSHI

272 South Harbor Drive (760) 277-0582

SUNSHINE KITCHEN

1006 Mission Ave. (442) 222-1811

SUSHI4REEL

4750 Oceanside Blvd. Suite A-20 (760) 659-6784

TERI CAFÉ

2216 South El Camino Real (760) 722-8399

TERI CAFÉ II

3809 Plaza Drive (760) 945-8888

TEN GU RAMEN

2183 Vista Way B-2 (760) 696-3266

THE POKE CAFÉ

3910 Vista Way (760) 458-3986

UMI JAPANESE GRILL & CAFÉ

401 Mission Ave. (760) 439-3566

WARAII SUSHI

4225 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 630-3770

WICKED POKE

2401 Vista Way (760) 529-0774

THE WHET NOODLE

1815 South Coast Hwy. (760) 453-2738

WRENCH & RODENT SEABASSTROPUB

1815 South Coast Hwy. (760) 271-0531

WU LAN RAMEN TAP HOUSE

4645 Frazee Road Suite F (760) 453-7526

YUKIYA SUSHI

2415 Vista Way (760) 439-3283

KOREAN

HAETAE AT KNVS

127 South Coast Hwy (442) 266-8245

GAJA KOREAN BBQ

2693 Vista Way (760) 231-1195

M. BBQ

2216 S El Camino Real (760) 433-1888

SONU BBQ

3744 Mission Ave. (760) 696-3686

ZZANG HOT DOG & CHICKEN

409 Mission Ave (760) 231-5335

MEDITERRANEAN

MAAN’S MEDITERRANEAN GRILL 4259 Oceanside Blvd. Ste.107 (760) 726-2249

PITA GUYS 4111 Oceanside Blvd, Ste 102 (760) 295-2636

THE ORIGINAL KEBAB 224 North Coast Hwy (760) 231-7723

MEXICAN

ANITA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT & CANTINA

2250 South El Camino Real (760) 757-7745

ANITA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT & CANTINA 1714 South Coast Hwy. (760) 722-6323 anitasoceanside101.com

CAFÉ ROSARITA 1816 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 722-6224

CARLITO’S CHICKEN 158 Roymar Road (760) 433-3427

COLIMA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 404 Pier View Way (760) 439-4045

DE KOTIJA’S TACO SHOP 3504 College Blvd (760) 758-0399

DIEGO’S MEXICAN FOOD 1030 South Coast Hwy. (760) 721-1985

EL MUNDO DE MARISCOS 3110 San Luis Rey Road (760) 754-8922

FIESTA MEXICANA 3784 Mission Ave. (760) 757-9872

FRIDA'S TAQUERIA 2011 Mission Ave (760) 696-3104

GOURMET TAMALES 3616 Ocean Ranch Blvd. (760) 439-3343

HOMESTATE 510 Vista Way (760) 491-1636

JOHNNY MANANA’S 308 Mission Ave (760) 721-9999

JORGE'S MEXICATESSEN

1129 South Coast Hwy. (760) 696-3072

KING BURRITO 3490 Marron Road (760) 720-9747

LA FUENTE DE MARISCOS

2936 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 529-0150

LA PERLA TAPATIA

625 North Redondo Drive (760) 722-2877

LA PERLA TAPATIA

1910 Mission Ave (760) 721-8486

LOS TACOS

2183 Vista Way (760) 757-8226

MARIETA’S

485 Vandegrift Blvd. (760) 967-1769

MARISCOS HUALTUCO 3110 San Luis Rey Rd. (760) 754-8922

MARISCOS ENSENADA

1405 South El Camino Real (760) 967-6024

MI ASADOR MEXICAN AND SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

4750 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 806-6684

MIRAMAR FISH TACOS & BEER

41 Douglas Drive (760) 721-2147

PEDRO’S TACOS

656 Benet Road (760) 722-7221

POLLOS MARIA

125 Old Grove Road (760) 435-9071 pollosmaria.com

ROBERTO’S TACO SHOP #13

518 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 757-2377

SAN LUIS REY BAKERY & RESTAURANT

490 North El Camino Real (760) 433-7242

SANCHO'S TACOS

400 Mission Ave. (760) 231-8228

SEÑOR GRUBBYS

311 N. Tremont St. (760) 721-6040 eatgrubbys.com

TONY’S FRESH MEXICAN FOOD

2983 Via Las Rosas (760) 433-5004

VALERIE’S TACO SHOP

3617 Ocean Ranch Blvd. (760) 712-1296

VALERIE'S TACO SHOP

1006 Mission Ave. (760) 231-1824

VALERIES TACO STAND

2213 S El Camino Real (760) 231-5458

VALLE

222 North Pacific St. (760) 512-3328

NEPALESE

HIMALAYAN BISTRO

4225 Oceanside Blvd. Ste. W (760) 631-1800

PERUVIAN

CASERA LATIN KITCHEN & BAKERY 4225 Oceanside Blvd. Ste. D (442) 222-1332

SEAFOOD

BRINE BOX

1 Oceanside Pier, #2

CRAB PUB 3766 Mission Ave Suite 111 (760) 696-3577

333 PACIFIC 333 North Pacific Street (760) 433-3333

HARBOR FISH & CHIPS

276 Harbor Drive South (760) 722-4977

HELLO BETTY FISH HOUSE 211 Mission Ave. (760) 722-1008

JOE’S CRAB SHACK 314 Harbor Drive (760) 722-1345

LIGHTHOUSE OYSTER BAR & GRILL 262 Harbor Drive South (760) 433-1900 lighthouseoceanside.com

MARISCO’S ENSENADA 1405 South El Camino Real (760) 967-6024

OCEANSIDE BROILER 1325 North Harbor Drive (760) 722-3474

Q&A RESTAURANT & OYSTER BAR 408 Pier View Way (760) 688-7249

SHOOTZ FISH & BEER 602 South Tremont St. (760) 696-3524 shootzfishxbeer.com

TIN FISH OCEANSIDE 302 North The Strand (760) 966-0007

STEAKHOUSES

333 PACIFIC 333 North Pacific Street (760) 433-3333

HUNTER STEAK HOUSE

1221 Vista Way (760) 433-2633

THAI CAFÉ DE THAI & SUSHI 4196 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 945-5533

MAK MAK ORGANIC

121 N Cleveland St (760) 696-3123

OCEAN THAI 2455 Vista Way (760) 722-9779

OCEAN THAI

3846 Mission Ave #A3 (760) 967-9901

RIM TALAY 508 Mission Ave (760) 435-2007

SABAI SABAI

THAI KITCHEN

1906 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 529-5597

SAVORY THAI

3829 Plaza Drive (760) 806-9606

THAI THAI 4121 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 295-5445

THAI GARDEN 4750 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 940-1009

THAI TABLE 1910 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 721-4850

VEGAN

ERIS FOOD CO 302 Wisconsin Ave. (760) 231-9986

THE PLOT 1733 South Coast Hwy. (442) 266-820 theplotrestaurant.com

VIETNAMESE

MR. PHO 4750 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 940-1306

PHO BOWL & GRILL 1006 Mission Ave. Ste. C (760) 453-2999

SAIGON SOUP 4160 Oceanside Blvd Ste. 169 (760) 726-4650.

PHO HA 3905 Mission Ave (760) 754-5267

PHO HOUSE 3753 Mission Ave. (760) 754-9999

PHO OCEANSIDE 518 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 754-2828

YUMMY PHO 4225 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 631-1800

WINE BARS/WINERIES

BEACH HOUSE WINERY 1534 Sleeping Indian Road (760) 732-3236

BUNKER HOUSE CAFE 322 North Cleveland St. (760) 967-7727

COOMBER CRAFT WINES 611 Mission Ave. (760) 231-8022 coomberwines.com

GOLDEN COAST MEAD 4093 Oceanside Blvd Ste G. (760) 630-4468

HANGAR 76 3229 Roymar Rd.

ORFILA VINEYARDS & WINERY 221 N Cleveland Street (760) 755-7040

THE MILLER’S TABLE 514 S Coast Hwy. (442) 615-7200

THE PRIVATEER MARKETPLACE & WINE BAR 1704 South Coast Hwy. (760) 453-2254 privateer-marketplace.com

PUBLISHER Jamey Stone Stone@theosider.com (760) 533-1003

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Nolan Woodrell nolan@theosider.com (949) 542-9653

ADVERTISING REP Kathleen Larson bepollinated@gmail.com (808) 780-6635

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