Jolly Boy Saloon and Restaurant pays homage to its 19th century roots with
fun bar room re-enactments and authentic California-Mexican cuisine
SAN DIEGO, CA; January 29, 2008 – The modern day will reopen in March 2008 after an eight-month renovation aimed to re-create the spirit and excitement of its historic namesake.
The original Jolly Boy Saloon débuted on the same grounds in 1854 and at the time was the premiere watering hole and gathering place for local ranchers and seafaring visitors alike.
The new Jolly Boy Saloon is the only bar in San Diego serving traditional Absinthe doses from an antique fountain into original glasses from the 1800’s. Absinthe, a drink that was first commercialized in the 1800’s and banned in the U.S. for 95 years, is an anise-flavored spirit derived from herbs. In addition to this traditional drink, the saloon and restaurant will also carry its own private label wine from California’s Round Hill Winery along with a full variety of other wines.
“The restaurant menu includes many items inspired by the saloon’s history,” says General Manager Mick Plemons. “We pay homage to the original saloon’s vibrant past offering not only seafood and steak entrees infused with fresh and organic ingredients, but also heirloom meats like Duroc pork roast which was characteristic of mid 19th century fare.”
The restaurant’s creations include Mahi Mahi Vera Cruz, a filet sautéed in an organic tomato sauce with onions, olives, capers, jalapeños, fresh avocado, and lime wedges served with Spanish rice; Salmon Agave con Fruita, grilled to order and topped with a blue agave infused Maradol papaya salsa accompanied by a cilantro pilaf; and an all-natural 12 ounce roasted Bone in Churrasco, grilled meat using the finest cattle from Rancho de Brandt.
The restaurant features mid-1800’s décor including a finely detailed Mahogany bar, oil lamps and illuminating torches, portraits of Old Town’s famous luminaries, and a functional outdoor caretta or ox-cart, typical of 1850’s Old Town. Guests will be greeted in grand style by sailors singing sea shanties, historical performances and theatrical reenactments and will be invited to partake in interactive gambling “board” games to round off the experience.
Jolly Boy Saloon and Restaurant is perfect for casual gatherings with family and friends. Located in Plaza del Pasado inside Old Town San Diego State Historical Park on San Diego Avenue next to the thriving Plaza del Pasado shops, it will be open everyday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. for lunch and dinner. For more information, call 619-297-3100 or visit www.jollyboyrestaurant.com or www.plazadelpasado.com.