Here’s your first look at Lana, the much-anticipated Solana Beach restaurant with some serious star power behind it.
Solana Beach is waving its sleepy dining reputation goodbye. Over the past few years, a few openings have brought some buzz (Rare Society, Rustic Root), with more on the way (like Mia’s coming later this year). And tomorrow–Friday, June 20–Lana will open in the marquee spot along PCH that once housed a California Pizza Kitchen.
The Lana trio is wine guy Mark Wheadon, operator Travis LeGrand, and chef David McIntyre. Wheadon is a level 2 sommelier who’s worked for Robert Redford and Ruth’s Chris; LeGrand has been a manager at Marine Room, Herringbone, and Urban Kitchen Group (Cucina Urbana, et al); and McIntyre is back stateside after 20 years working abroad for Wolfgang Puck.
Lana’s concept is simple: seasonal, West Coast bounty with ridiculously high-quality service—occupying that very San Diego space between laid back and big night out.
The menu from McIntyre and chef de cuisine Matt Martinez (Cowboy Star, Avant) emphasizes seasonal produce, local ingredients, and great seafood. Think simple classics like roasted chicken, steak, and flatbreads.
The beverage program, helmed by The Lion’s Share alum Brandon Curry, leans heavily on California wines, plus a few from around the world.
Wheadon hopes to bring a little bit of nighttime energy to that stretch of the 101.
