Firehouse American Eatery + Lounge in San Diego’s Pacific Beach officially reopened for business earlier this month after being closed for a $1 million renovation. The restaurant, which first debuted nearly a decade ago, brings some serious class to the beach with its new look, which includes Japanese-inspired wall treatments, mirror installations, and panoramic views of the ocean.
Owned by the same team behind Kettner Exchange, Firehouse’s new design features shou-sugi-ban wood along the walls, which is a Japanese style of preservation and antiquing that gives wood a slightly burned look. Paired with the deconstructed lumber is mirrored paneling. Seating options vary in style and height, with a fireplace lounge area, bar seating, and dining tables that can adjusted in height to transition from sitting to standing.
The Firehouse still takes advantage of its prime location with its upstairs patio, which now has four new private cabanas and a living green succulent wall surrounding the bar. There is also an awning that can be rolled out on sweltering days, but will also function to keep heat trapped in the patio on chilly nights.
The eatery hasn’t just gotten a makeover in design, it also has a totally new menu thanks to new Executive Chef Jason Maitland. Among the long list of snacks, guests can choose between items like bourbon-bacon popcorn, four cheese polenta “tots,” grilled Spanish octopus, and blistered shishito peppers. Entrees include chipotle-glazed pork rib tips with bacon macaroni and cheese, twice cooked chicken wings, and cast iron seared local sea bass.
Firehouse American Eatery + Lounge serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, from 9 a.m. to midnight on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. on weekends.
