Former Point Loma restaurant Fiddler’s Green is being reimagined into The Boatyard by a group of San Diego boating, fishing, and restaurant industry veterans. Led by Michelin-awarded chef Jason McLeod and featuring nautical designs by Paul Basile, the restaurant’s additional partners include Cal and Jan Muir, owners of Sail San Diego; Whitney Eckis, marketing executive, and entrepreneur Spencer Moran.
The Boatyard will draw on the maritime history of the area and feature a menu centered around locally sourced seafood, prime steaks, an extensive wine and cocktail program, and the area’s first speakeasy.
Basile will revitalize the existing structure, transitioning it into a contemporary reconstruction that involves a comprehensive demolition, with the entire property being re-envisioned into something relaxed yet refined. The property will undergo a full transformation with plans to open in mid-2025. The project is wrapping up its investor raise, seeking a final $1 million.
At the direction of McLeod, the restaurant’s culinary approach is rooted in tradition, emphasizing simplicity and a commitment to quality, sourcing the best local and sustainable produce, meats, and seafood. Grilled over an open wood-burning fire, each dish will be crafted to highlight the natural flavors of these ingredients, using straightforward techniques that enhance rather than overshadow.
Established in 1994 at the entrance of Shelter Island, Fiddler’s Green was a nautical-themed restaurant with over 300 boat models lining its interior walls. Specializing in steak and seafood, this venue became a gathering place for sailors, fishermen, the community, and seasonal visitors for nearly 30 years, before closing in May 2023 as ownership decided to part ways.
Fiddler’s Green’s hospitality and vibrant atmosphere made it a favorite destination for boaters after a day of sailing or fishing. More than just a restaurant, it became a part of the island’s culture, where meals, drinks, and a welcoming ambiance created a spot for locals and visitors.
Understanding from first-hand experience the importance of Fiddler’s Green to the community, Cal Muir grew up running around the boat docks and had his first beer there before operating Sail San Diego with offices in the same building. The new team plans to honor the former restaurant’s history and Shelter Island and create a space for the community to continue to gather, providing an elegant yet unpretentious experience.
