The small but iconic venue, located on Shelter Island Drive in Point Loma, was most recently closed on July 21, 2025, following a failed re-inspection that once again identified a vermin violation. This followed similar forced closures on July 19, July 18, July 1, June 28, June 27, and June 25 - each one tied to evidence of vermin, along with other repeat issues.
While Fathom briefly reopened on July 3 with a clean bill of health, it was ordered closed again just two weeks later. The July 3 inspection report showed an "A" grade with a score of 99 and no violations found - but that status was short-lived. The pattern of shutdowns and reopenings suggests ongoing struggles to fully address the issues.
Fathom Bistro first opened in February 2013 and is the brainchild of local beer industry veteran Dennis Borlek, a former partner at Monkey Paw Pub and one-time manager of Hamilton's Tavern - both once-iconic San Diego craft beer bars that have since closed. Nestled inside the pier's bait and tackle shop, Fathom quickly gained a reputation as one of San Diego’s most charmingly offbeat beer bars, offering a rotating selection of local craft brews, housemade sausages, burgers, and Hawaiian comfort fare - all with unobstructed views of the bay and a handful of seats both inside and on the patio.
The space also operated as a bottle shop and fishing supply outlet, serving early morning anglers and evening beer enthusiasts alike. Borlek’s vision even included lowering kegs into the bay to naturally chill them, and kayakers and boaters frequently tied up at the private dock for a pint.
While Fathom remains a favorite among locals for its no-frills charm and creative menu, the recent health violations could jeopardize its standing if not swiftly and permanently resolved. According to public records, the violations span from vermin activity to issues with cleaning item storage and facility maintenance.
Fathom was permitted to reopen on July 22 with a health grade of “A” and a score of 95. Fans of the one-of-a-kind Shelter Island destination are hopeful the business can bounce back for good this time. We reached out to owner Dennis Borlek for comment; while he did not respond to our initial message, he later commented on this article, stating: "Fathom opened Tuesday the 23rd with an A rating. For 12 years we have used a pest control company and never had an incident. Being on a pier, the humidity can be a harborage for insects. The term ‘vermin’ in our case referred to a living nymph German roach seen by the inspector - not a mouse or rat. We have had thorough treatments and used the few days we were closed to complete the maintenance and deep cleaning required to pass."
While Fathom remains a favorite among locals for its no-frills charm and creative menu, the recent health violations could jeopardize its standing if not swiftly and permanently resolved. According to public records, the violations span from vermin activity to issues with cleaning item storage and facility maintenance.
Fathom was permitted to reopen on July 22 with a health grade of “A” and a score of 95. Fans of the one-of-a-kind Shelter Island destination are hopeful the business can bounce back for good this time. We reached out to owner Dennis Borlek for comment; while he did not respond to our initial message, he later commented on this article, stating: "Fathom opened Tuesday the 23rd with an A rating. For 12 years we have used a pest control company and never had an incident. Being on a pier, the humidity can be a harborage for insects. The term ‘vermin’ in our case referred to a living nymph German roach seen by the inspector - not a mouse or rat. We have had thorough treatments and used the few days we were closed to complete the maintenance and deep cleaning required to pass."
Fathom Bistro, Bait and Tackle is located at 1776 Shelter Island Drive in San Diego's Point Loma neighborhood. For more information, visit fathombistro.com.
Originally published on July 23, 2025.
