2016’s biggest restaurant openings

It’s still early in the year, but it looks like 2016 is destined to be an excellent time for dining and drinking in San Diego. Here’s a look at some of the newcomers to the scene that are sure to impress your taste buds:

1919, Gaslamp

With a name referencing the Black Sox World Series scandal, 1919 is making a statement on 5th and Market. The owners’ goal is “to be a great neighborhood sports bar with scratch-made food and unbeatable hospitality,” said Andrew Martino. “With mid-century furniture and original exposed brick, 1919 will evoke feelings of nostalgia.”

The menu will feature classic bar fare with burgers and nachos, plus unique offerings such as Salt and Vinegar Chicken Skins. For booze, look for simple cocktails you can get quickly-without missing the action on one of the 25 TVs-and a large selection of craft beer. They’ll also offer a specialty pickle back program with pineapple jalapeño, strawberry, mango or English cucumber pickle backs paired with a spirit.

Opening late February/early March. Visit 1919SanDiego.com for more information.

Miss B’s Coconut Club, Mission Beach

Mission Beach will be swaying to a Caribbean beat this spring. Locals and tourists alike can look forward to a new gathering spot, Miss B’s Coconut Club-located at Mission Blvd. and Santa Clara Place. “We’re excited to bring the community together for unique eats and drinks,” said Pete Cich, owner. The name “Miss B” refers to the fictitious curvy pin-up girl who was used to promote real estate sales in Mission Beach in the 1920s. She’ll be depicted in a life-size mural welcoming customers.

The menu will feature American dishes and coastal favorites with a Caribbean flair. Perfect-for-the-beach cocktails and draft beer can be enjoyed on the wraparound patio. “Our open-air bar and dining concept creates the ideal environment for people watching and enjoying a sun-soaked San Diego day,” Cich said.

Opening Spring 2016 at 3704 Mission Blvd.

Westroot Tavern, Carmel Valley

Westroot Tavern, a new offering from Verant Group, “is going to be a neighborhood gathering place,” according to Eric Lingenfelder, a partner at Verant Group. The destination is taking root at The Village at Pacific Highlands Ranch in Carmel Valley. “Verant Group has become very familiar with what San Diegans look for in terms of dining and entertainment, so we’re excited to bring that to North County,” Lingenfelder said. The restaurant and entertainment group has already made its mark on San Diego with local favorites barleymash, ginger’s, True North Tavern, Sandbar, Tavern and Uptown Tavern.

The chef-driven eatery will focus on fresh, inspired food, specialty seasonal cocktails and local brews. With sports viewing on 30 HDTVs, live music and comfortable patios that open to the restaurant, Westroot Tavern aspires to be a place that the locals can call home.

Opening Spring 2016 at 5965 Village Way.

Source: DiscoverSD