November 21, 2013
Set to be the only existing tried-and-true steakhouse on the island, Stake Chophouse + Bar is coming next spring as the newest concept from Blue Bridge Hospitality group, a locally-owned and operated restaurant group, based in and born out of a love for the city of Coronado. First launched in 1998 with MooTime Creamery, a partnership between Coronado cousins, David Spatafore & Leroy Mossel, Blue Bridge has experienced tremendous growth over the past 15 years with several distinct family-friendly concepts. Most recently venturing into chef-driven dining by launching Leroy's Kitchen + Lounge in 2011, Stake will now elevate the collective (and Coronado's dining scene) to a entirely new level with this contemporary, steakhouse and lounge. Although a executive chef has yet to be announced, we've got our hands on early details on the project.Nestled in the heart of Coronado’s iconic village, Stake is located at 1309 Orange Avenue. The lease was recently signed on the 4,600 square-foot property in early October and will open doors as Coronado’s only existing tried-and-true steakhouse come Spring 2014.
“Coronado is a treasured destination for visitors, but we’ve always kept our San Diego residents top of mind,” says co-owner, David Spatafore. “While there are plenty of big chain steakhouses in the city, we’re presenting a completely unique, local approach—and we’re encouraging San Diego diners to come across the bridge to experience a new side of dining.”
Although an executive chef has yet to be announced, Blue Bridge’s Corporate Chef, Tim Kolanko, will initially oversee Stake’s culinary program. A seasoned veteran, Kolanko’s training is anchored in more than 20 years of culinary experience, working under several of the nation's most respected industry innovators including Stuart Brioza (Food & Wine’s “10 Best New Chefs” in America in 2003), Charles Dale (Food & Wine’s Best New Chef, 1995; James Beard Foundation nomination for Best Chef in 1998 and 1999), and local legend, Jeff Jackson of La Jolla's Five Diamond boutique hotel, The Lodge at Torrey Pines.
Spatafore is also quick to add that Stake will be anything but the classic, white linen, fine dining chophouse reminiscent of years past. While still in the very early stages of menu development, Stake’s culinary program will allow guests to indulge in a variety of offerings versus more traditional, larger entrée style portions. Cuts of steak will be more approachable in size with an innovative, chef-driven spin. Guests can expect to find an extensive selection of fresh seafood on the menu in addition to a bar program showcasing an incredible selection of wines as well as a signature martini menu.
Previously occupied by Ristorante La Terrazza, the upstairs, second-story space is currently in the early stages of construction, as the venue will undergo a substantial overhaul in structure and design. While specific details are currently under wraps, Stake will evolve from a creative collaboration between Blue Bridge and a talented design team comprised of Di Donato Architects and Studio MY ID interior architecture and design.
Stay tuned to SanDiegoVille.com for more details on this exciting new Coronado concept.
