It's been a tough year for longtime San Diego restaurants. After nearly 50 years in business, Harbor Island mainstay The Boathouse Restaurant has announced it will permanently close at month's end.
The Boathouse Restaurant was originally opened in early 1970. In 2001, it was purchased by restaurateur siblings John & Jill Ealy, who also own and operate Zelda's on the Beach in Capitola, Betty's Beach Cafe in Lahaina, Hawaii, Ideal Bar & Grill in Santa Cruz and Harley Gray Kitchen + Bar in San Diego's Mission Hills neighborhood. Already a Harbor Island landmark, the restaurant became a destination for locals and tourists looking for panoramic views complimented by value-oriented specials like the weekly lobster and prime rib nights.
The Boathouse will close for business after end of service on Saturday, June 29. The Port of San Diego owns the land that the restaurant has inhabited for the past 49+ years and the leaseholder, Harbor Island West Marina, is in the process of seeking approvals necessary to redevelop the plaza and marina to improve and upgrade the facilities. Rather than work wait through the renovation, The Boathouse chose to let their lease expire. In their farewell message, The Boathouse urges San Diegans to visit sister restaurant Harley Gray in the heart of Mission Hills for similar weekly specials, including a $13.99 whole Maine lobster on Thursday nights.
The Boathouse Restaurant is located at 2040 Harbor Island Drive, Ste. 2B, on San Diego's Harbor Island. For more information, visit boathouserestaurant.com.
