The future of the Anthony’s Fish Grotto site on San Diego’s Embarcadero could be decided next week.
On Tuesday, the Board of Port Commissioners will consider a staff recommendation to choose the Brigantine, Inc. as the restaurant group to redevelop the prime piece of bayfront real estate.
The restaurant at 1360 North Harbor Drive is now run by Anthony’s Fish Grotto of La Mesa, but the business’s 52-year lease expired Jan. 31, 2017.
In May, the Port’s board asked for bids from companies interested in revitalizing the iconic site that sits right on the water.
Six responses were received, and they were soon narrowed down to three contenders: The Brigantine, Sunroad Enterprises and Fish Market Restaurants (a joint venture with Anthony’s).
In their recommended resolution, Port staff said they believe “Brigantine demonstrates the best balance of activating the Location through increased public access as well as maximizing revenues to the District...”
The company was the only one to propose “dock-and-dine” improvements by expanding the dining facility and creating a dock; it also plans to build out a public viewing deck.
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The Brigantine provided the highest proposed rent to the district. Port officials say the Brigantine’s proposal projects $1.6 million more in revenue value over the first 10 years than the second highest proposal.
Under the plan, the site would be dubbed the “Portside Pier,” with the space divided into four concepts on two levels:
- Brigantine on the Bay would serve up surf and turf, an oyster bar and a lounge with “exhibition cooking.”
- Miguel’s Cocina would offer Mexican food.
- Ketch Grill & Taps would be a casual walk-up and take-out grill with pub food and craft beers and spirits.
- Portside Gelato & Coffee – this delicious concept speaks for itself, serving up drinks from local roaster Café Moto.
The public viewing deck would be above the Miguel’s restaurant.
At its meeting Tuesday, the Board of Port Commissioners can accept, modify or reject its staff’s recommendation.
