Cap'n Keno's was founded by Gerry Sova, who used his winnings from a keno game in Las Vegas to open the restaurant. In the early years, Sova managed the restaurant entirely by himself, working to build a loyal customer base. Over time, the restaurant and bar became a community hub, well-known for its welcoming atmosphere, old-school charm and affordable food and drinks. The wood-paneled interior, iconic red leather booths, and nautical décor contributed to the restaurant's character, drawing in locals and visitors alike.
The sale of the property to local developer Adam Robinson and RAF Pacifica Group was completed in a deal reportedly worth $10.5 million. Plans for the site include a significant redevelopment project, which will transform the area into a mixed-use development with residential units, commercial spaces, and a new restaurant and bar. The project, known as the Moonlight Mixed-Use Project, is slated to bring 45 condominiums, including affordable housing units, and 14 commercial spaces to the area.
Although the redevelopment will change the landscape of the site, the new owners intend to honor Captain Keno's legacy. The restaurant's name and liquor license have been purchased, and the new restaurant and bar planned for the space will incorporate elements of the original brand to pay tribute to its rich history in the Encinitas community.
While longtime patrons mourn the closure of Captain Keno’s, many are also purchasing memorabilia and pieces of the restaurant’s décor to preserve a sense of nostalgia. Professional surfer Benji Weatherly, who is opening a new Hawaiian-themed restaurant nearby, has acquired several items from Captain Keno's, including its iconic booths, with the intention of repurposing them for his new venture.
The legacy of Captain Keno's will live on in the hearts of its devoted patrons, as the community reflects on its half-century-long run as a cherished gathering place in Leucadia. The space will undergo transformation, but the spirit of the restaurant is expected to be preserved in the new development, keeping a piece of Encinitas history alive.
Originally published on October 16, 2024.
