The Nugget is big on tradition, and the friendly, welcoming atmosphere established by the Taylors persists today. Bartender Carter Hines (“the Duke”) tended bar through all the Taylor years, and still comes in once a week to work with Marie Ise who trained under him. Both are well known and beloved by loyal regulars. “The Nugget folks become part of people’s families,” Ise says. Proof of that is the tale of Kevin Harder, a Nugget regular for whom the place was a second home. In 2004, he won the lottery with a jackpot of $64 million and shared some of his good fortune with his Nugget family, gifting staff with cars, vacations, and generous tips. The Summerland Nugget enjoys a storied history, well documented by the Azar family, which has owned the property since 1931. The first restaurant, built in 1960, was the Sea Breeze. It was soon replaced by the Shanty, next door to the White Owl surf shop. The original Nugget opened in 1970, with the Taylors taking over in 1976. The Summerland Nugget has witnessed its share of ups and downs, economic highs and lows, bar fights and happy reunions and visits by the rich and famous, some of whom still drop in. It’s a place that wears its history on the walls for all to see. But much of that may go unnoticed by the hungry families and tourists attracted to the restaurant for its atmosphere, friendly vibe and hearty portions of food and drink. ♦
The interior of downtown Carpinteria’s Nugget.
The Nugget on Carpinteria Avenue is one of now four Nugget restaurants. 54 CARPINTERIAMAGAZINE.com
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