Brian Jensen opened the first Bottlecraft beer bar and bottle shop location in 2011 in San Diego's Little Italy. Since then, he has opened six additional Bottlecraft branches, two locations of Vino Carta Wine Store, and is in the process of launching an Old World-style pub and eatery called Bock Bar in the former Hamilton's Tavern space in South Park. Jensen is in the process of finalizing a lease for the space occupied by Florence Ristorante & Pizza since 1994 in San Diego's North Park for his newest restaurant concept.
Dubbed Little Thief, the restaurant's name is inspired by a tool called a 'thief' used to pull samples from wine barrel. The concept will pay homage to the Bottlecraft team's favorite wine bars, old world and new. Expect a European-style, "moody" bistro with California influence, featuring a menu of tapas-sized plates that are wine appropriate and inspired by wine producing regions around the globe. The wine program will include mostly small producers and natural/biodynamic wines.
Little Thief is anticipated to open as early as this August at 3017 University Avenue in San Diego's North Park. Follow Little Thief on Instagram for updates on the project.
