The incoming Chick & Hawk restaurant, which is advertised as blending elevated Southern California cuisine with fast-casual dining, has faced significant delays attributed to permit issues, funding challenges, and other roadblocks. Recent developments suggest that the long-awaited debut may finally be on the horizon, although this has been promised for years without coming to fruition.
First announced in 2021, Chick & Hawk was envisioned as a unique "fast-fine" dining concept that would pair elevated fried chicken sandwiches with chef-driven dishes like oysters and globally inspired fare. Bachelier, formerly the founding chef of Jeune et Jolie and Campfire restaurants in Carlsbad, teamed up with Hawk to create a space that celebrates surf and skate culture while delivering exceptional food. Bachelier has since opened brunch-focused Manna Atelier in Encinitas as he waited to move forward with Chick & Hawk.
Set to occupy the 1,421-square-foot space that long housed Fulano's Restaurant on Leucadia Boulevard, Chick & Hawk was initially expected to open in 2022. However, construction remained stalled for years, leaving the site dormant and raising questions about the project's viability. Last year, Chick & Hawk announced they finally received approval to begin construction, but nothing moved forward. The team has hosted several pop-ups to preview their offerings, including a standout fried chicken sandwich that has already generated buzz among local food enthusiasts.
In a recent showcase at Callie, Travis Swikard's acclaimed San Diego restaurant in the East Village, the Chick & Hawk team previewed some of their signature dishes, generating excitement within the local culinary scene. The event highlighted the strong support for the project and reinforced the team's commitment to bringing their vision to life despite the challenges.
Designed with input from local firms Starch Creative Studios and CLVT, Chick & Hawk restaurant aims to blend 90s surf and skate aesthetics with a modern, community-focused vibe. The design will incorporate indoor and outdoor dining spaces. The menu promises locally sourced ingredients and a range of offerings, from craggy fried chicken sandwiches to housemade sour-cream-and-onion chips with creme fraiche and caviar. Chick & Hawk also plans to feature a full bar, serving craft cocktails, wine, and beer to complement the food.
While no official opening date has been announced (the website still says "Coming in 2022"), construction is reportedly now underway, and the team is optimistic about launching in mid-2025. Merchandise sales, including branded t-shirts and hats, have helped sustain the project during the delays.
Chick & Hawk is anticipated to open at 145 Leucadia Boulevard in San Diego's North County city of Encinitas. For more information, visit chickandhawk.com and follow the concept on Instagram.
