Tuesday, 27 October 2026, 8:17
Two familiar faces are reshaping the social landscape of Capitola Village. After acquiring the Bay Bar & Grill twelve months ago, longtime patrons and industry veterans Brittny Beshore and Cliff Nelson have completed a comprehensive transformation of the neighborhood staple. Their vision moves beyond standard pub fare to deliver a polished, upscale sports bar experience rooted in local hospitality.
The renovation prioritizes intentional design and operational upgrades. Beshore describes the refreshed space as aesthetically pleasing, blending neutral beach tones with strategic accents of teal blue. The interior balances modern minimalism with community charm, featuring curated local artwork, nine televisions, a pool table, and a classic jukebox. Live music performances from regional artists further anchor the establishment as a cultural hub.
I listened to their reasons for not coming here often and decided that I wanted to elevate our local standing and make changes that would improve our public image as well as add another desirable destination in the Capitola Village.
Behind the polished exterior lies a rigorous focus on kitchen execution. The duo approached the culinary program by identifying commonly found bar foods and refining them through meticulous attention to detail. Nearly every item is prepared in-house using proprietary recipes. Signature offerings include double smash burgers topped with white cheddar, fried chicken sandwiches, and house-seasoned French fries. Appetizer selections highlight shrimp ceviche and battered pickle chips served with house-made ranch dressing. The beverage program complements the food with a full bar and a rotating signature cocktail list designed around diverse flavor profiles.
Capitola has long served as a cultural and recreational anchor along the Monterey Bay coastline. As tourism rebounds and local commerce expands, independent venues play a critical role in sustaining village character. The revitalization of the Bay Bar aligns with broader efforts to attract both residents and visitors seeking authentic coastal dining experiences without sacrificing quality or atmosphere.
Beshore brings extensive front-of-house expertise, having managed established venues including Pono and worked alongside her father in early bartending roles. Nelson contributes years of managerial experience from nearby establishments such as Bittersweet Bistro. Together, they represent a generation of local operators invested in preserving small business heritage while adapting to contemporary consumer expectations.
The Bay Bar & Grill stands ready to serve as a refined gathering place for the community. By merging historical goodwill with modern standards in service, cuisine, and ambiance, Beshore and Nelson have positioned the venue to thrive in a competitive coastal market. Residents and travelers alike are encouraged to visit and experience the newly realized vision firsthand.
