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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

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BRUCE HAS A BOOK! BRUCE THE TRENCHCOAT GUY’S NEW BOOK BY PHOTOGRAPHER MIKE YOSHIDA

Coastal Exposures THE OSIDER NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

A procession heads down Pier View Way during this year's 25th Annual Oceanside Dia de Los Muertos Festival. Photo by Zach Cordner

CONTENTS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 VOLUME 13 / ISSUE 6

D E P A R T M E N T S 2 COASTAL EXPOSURES • 2 5th Annual Dia de los Muertos Festival 6 SET IN STONE • O ur holiday wish for Oceanside 10 OCEANSIDE’S FINEST • Jeara Romasanta 14 ARTS & CULTURE • W hy The Arts Matter 16 HIDDEN GEMS • KS Wellness & Beauty 20 ARTS • Kimmi Bitter 38 COMMUNITY • BASE Programs 44 LOCAL BUSINESS • T he Machine Shop Oceanside 46 LOCAL BUSINESS • A DVERTORIAL High Rollers & Noble Victory 48 LOCAL RETAILER • Goblin Shark Emporium

R E S T A U R A N T

R E V I E W

50 INLAND • The Latin Chef 52 COASTAL • La Corriente Cocina Del Pacifico 54 COASTAL • Copper Kings 56 RESTAURANT AND BAR GUIDE The Osider guide to all the best bars and eateries in town 62 FAST FORWARD TO YESTERDAY Aerial of the San Luis Rey Valley, 1940s

F E A T U R E S 24 HISTORICAL OCEANSIDE A look into the Hill Top Motel and how this roadside dive is getting a new chance on life 28 O SIDE FLAVOR 2026 Thank you to all sponsors, vendors, and everyone who made this year's Oside Flavor our best one yet 32 TOWER 7 A look into Tower 7, the newly released photodocumentary of Oceanside by photographer Mike Yoshida

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SET IN STONE A word from the publisher

ZACH CORDNER

El Niño is bringing more coastal flooding this winter.

The holiday season is officially here, first with Thanksgiving then right into Christmas, but El Niño has us all feeling like it’s the beginning of summertime. Crazy stuff, right? Our coastal temps are breaking all time heat records and the ocean temp is still well above 70 degrees. For us surfers, it’s music to our ears. Perhaps an early Christmas gift? Then again, with El Niño comes a lot of rain, wind, and stormy conditions as we work our way into the winter months. I was here in the late ‘80s when El Niño wiped out the pier and caused a ton of coastal

damage. Let’s hope that doesn’t happen again. The world is a crazy place these days, and this is a reminder to call your friends and let them know you love them, help out a neighbor in need, and go the extra mile to make the world a better place. Division seems to be everywhere, and it's tearing apart all that we have worked so hard to achieve and the foundation of respect our community is built on. Let’s live above the fray and lead by example. The world is a much better place when we can agree to 6

disagree and move forward toward the common goal of a better future. So, as we head toward the holidays and the end of 2026, can we all agree to be better to one another starting right now? Why not give it a try? I guarantee we will all be in a much happier place once we do.

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CONTENTS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026 VOLUME 13 / ISSUE 6

PUBLISHER Jamey Stone/Publisher/Co-Founder bucclife@gmail.com EDITORIAL Zach Cordner/Creative Director/Co-Founder zach@zachcordner.com Dwayne Carter/Design Director dwaynecarter@me.com Shelby Rowe/Editor shelbyamrowe@gmail.com Kevin Mijares/Staff Photographer Anamarina Hernandez/Social Media Manager R.I.P. Aaron Schmidt/Editorial Director (1972-2022)

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CONTRIBUTORS Carmen Cox, Alondra Figueroa, Katie LaLicata, Julian Jolliffe, Kristi Hawthorne, Kagan Schmidt, Elizabeth Schwartze SPECIAL THANKS Oceanside Historical Society, Tim Wrisley, Amber Lussier, Abijah Hensley, Bruce The Trenchcoat Guy, The Carter Family, The Woodrell Family, The Becker Family, Ron Goodin, Bailey Stone, Braden Stone, Judy Endorf, The Hoffer Family, Steve and Linda Josepho, Jean Josepho, Oceanside Museum of Art, and all of our advertisers

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Oceanside's Finest Jeara Romasanta WORDS: ALONDRA FIGUEROA PHOTO: ZACH CORDNER

Becoming an educator means choosing to be in a career that requires everything you’ve got to give, every single day. Days filled with ups and downs, joy, tears, and even fears. Nobody knows this better than today’s professional school counselors who are facing unprecedented times with federal cutbacks to education, rising class sizes and increases in children’s behavior, yet they persevere, always smiling, comforting, guiding, and teaching skills that students will carry with them for their entire lives. Principal of Christa McAuliffe Elementary School, Kathy Holohan, put it best saying, “Mrs. Romasanta is the heart and soul of our school. She creates a space where every kid feels safe, understood, and supported. Whether she’s sitting down one-on-one with a student, running classroom lessons, or guiding groups through tough things like grief, anxiety and adjusting to a new school, she shows up with so much genuine care. We are beyond lucky to have her in our corner.” Holohan is right! School counselors are the heart and soul of the campus and this year she’s proud to share that her school counselor, Jeara Romasanta, won the San Diego County Counselor Advocate of the Year Award for 2026. She has also been a finalist for School Counselor of the Year more than once, wow! That and more is why we are proud to feature Mrs. Jeara Romasanta as this issue’s Oceanside’s Finest. Jeara Romasanta comes to Oceanside by way of Corona, where she was raised by her Filipino parents and grandparents. Her mother was one of twelve children and the family worked hard to provide not only for her and her younger sisters, but for other family members who needed assistance in their own immigration process. Her home was often filled with family members, aunts, uncles, and cousins who were facing a stringent immigration process, but with hard work and her parents’ help they made it through.

It wasn’t until high school when she met her school counselor, Ms. Morris, that she felt safe enough to process the childhood experiences that she felt from having a very different background from most of her peers. She was able to be herself, safe from judgement, and Ms. Morris’ devotion to her personal success and college going aspirations created a defining moment where Jeara realized that she too wanted to become a counselor. It was through her support that she applied and was accepted to university as well as graduate school in pursuit of her masters degree in counseling and guidance and even interned with Morris at Roosevelt High School. Romasanta shared that when she graduated and was ready to be a full-fledged counselor there were no jobs available in the Corona area, so she again turned to Ms. Morris who suggested North County San Diego. It was perfect timing as O c e a n s i d e U n i f i e d w a s ex p a n d i n g t h e i r comprehensive counseling program to the elementary schools. Jeara was one of the founding members of the OUSD Elementary Counseling Department. In her role as counselor, she specializes in healingcentered engagement and institutional equity. “My professional trajectory from site based and district wide counseling frameworks to mentoring emerging practitioners is driven by a commitment to dismantling punitive structures in K-12 education,” she said. This is amazing and we are proud of her work with her students and the community. Personally understanding the struggles that many multi-generational Oceanside families face and the commitment that Ms. Morris modeled for her has allowed Jeara to channel those experiences to better serve her students in so many ways. Romasanta provides students with monthly classroom presentations that teachers of all grade levels can sign up for such as relationship building skills,

conflict resolution, and sportsmanship to name a few. She also runs a variety of support groups including grief and loss support and does a weekly friendship building “lunch bunch” which can often be a great opportunity for some students to make connections to other peers. Romasanta has a beautiful child-centered classroom dedicated to her work with students, and it is so helpful to have this spacious room for students to feel comfortable and spread out to different stations throughout the room to address different needs. Some areas focus on rule-following or sharing or team building skills. She calls it circuit training for your emotions, what a wonderful idea. The kids absolutely love it! Romasanta is highly decorated and aside from being Counselor Advocate of the Year she has received the Non-Administrator Award for Leadership Advocacy for Equity, and Promoting Community Learning in 2024 from the Association of California School Administrators. She is one of only seventeen Nationally Board Certified Counselors and proudly mentors other educators in the process by providing pedagogical and psychological support for those pursuing board certification. We see what a powerhouse Romasanta is and how much she has done for her school community and are thrilled to highlight her as one of our Oceanside's Finest educators. Mrs. Romasanta is in her ninth year at McAuliffe and thriving! She loves being on site and working with her students and staff directly. She is loved by her faculty, students, and families alike. We look forward to seeing how her counseling craft evolves and what comes next for Jeara and you too can keep up with her on Instagram @counselor_bythesea

Give the Holiday a Greener Wrap-Up! Simple steps can help reduce waste, recycle more and spread a little holiday cheer as we start the new year right!

Here’s How to Green Up Your Holiday

Reduce

Reuse

• Give experiences instead of physical gifts.

• Save bows, ribbons, tissue paper, gift bags and boxes for future celebrations.

• Recycle gift boxes, wrapping paper, greeting cards and envelopes.*

• Create festive presentations with reusable or natural alternatives such as fabric, baskets, flowers or greenery.

• Flatten clean, dry cardboard boxes before placing them in your recycling cart.

• Select quality over quantity when purchasing gifts. • Choose gifts with minimal or plastic-free packaging.

Recycle

*Cellophane, metallic and glittery wrapping paper go into the landfill cart.

ONE Planet. TAKE Action.

Give Your Tree a Second Life

Recycling holiday trees transforms natural materials into compost and mulch. Holiday tree collection begins the weekday following Christmas Day on December 28 and continues until January 15, 2027. REMOVE all decorations, lights, tinsel and tree stands. PLACE the tree in your organics cart with the lid fully closed or place it curbside next to your landfill cart. Trees will be collected for three weeks after the holiday on your service day. FLOCKED trees are accepted but cannot be recycled.

Manage Your Service With the My WM App Stay connected to your waste and recycling services anytime, anywhere with the My WM app. Download the My WM app today and put WM services at your fingertips. The My WM app makes it easy to: Check holiday service delays Report missed pickups Schedule bulk item and e-waste curbside pickup Access billing and account information 24/7

Questions? Contact WM of North County (760) 439-2824 • Email: cssandiego@wm.com Web: home.wm.com/Oceanside

Arts&Culture THE OSIDER NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

WHY THE ARTS MATTER:

A Year of Growth and Creativity for Oceanside’s Arts and Culture Community

Over the past year, these two pages in The Osider have featured many arts and culture events happening throughout the city. Many of these events were made possible by artists and organizations who received grants from the 2025–2026 Oceanside Arts & Culture Grant Program. In 2026, Oceanside marked the second year of this annual grant program, twenty-three ar tists and organizations were chosen and received a total of $150,0 0 0 in suppor t for their projects and work that makes Oceanside a place we all love to be. The grant program is funded by the Oceanside Cultural Arts District through a grant from the California Arts Council, the state’s arts agency, and the Oceanside Arts Commission, a city commission tasked with improving Oceanside as a place for artists and creatives to thrive.

Thanks to this support, the artists and organizations have brought community open mics, writing workshops, artist markets, cultural festivals, and opportunities for young performing artists. As we head into the new year, the Oceanside Cultural Arts District and the City of Oceanside Arts Commission will continue to support and invest in the local creative community with the third year of the annual Oceanside Arts & Culture Grant Program. A huge shout-out and thank you to the 2025– 2026 grantees for all their great work this year: Botanical Community Development Initiatives, Coastal Music & Arts Foundation, Creative Collective, Dear Tomorrow, Friends of Oceanside Dia de los Muertos, Glassless Minds, KOCT Television, Luz Helena Thompson, Marisa Deluca, MindFull Movement, North San Diego County NAACP, 14

Oceanside Alternative Medicine, Oceanside International Film Festival, Oceanside Theatre Company, Pasifika Culinary Project, Soultry Sisters + Wellness Collective, Star Theatre, St. Brigid’s Episcopal Church, Studio ACE, The Hong Konger Club, Transborder Film Foundation, Umeke, and Vika Stansky-Hernandez. Look out for our next article in the January/ February issue of The Osider where we will highlight the 2026–2027 grantees. Explore current arts and culture events in the City of Oceanside at: oceansidearts.org The Oceanside California Cultural District is one of twenty-four state-designated districts appointed by the California Arts Council and is brimming with arts & culture programs, venues, public art, and murals. Follow us on Instagram! @oceansideculturaldistrict

The arts matter for economic impact, youth development and education, equity and inclusion, civic problem solving, as a competitive advantage for the city, and for community celebration.

Hidden Gems THE OSIDER NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

KS Wellness & Beauty WORDS: SHELBY ROWE PHOTOS: KEVIN MIJARES

For Kathleen Salamone, good skincare isn't about chasing quick fixes or following the latest trends. It's about understanding your skin, giving it what it needs, and feeling good in the process. That's the philosophy behind KS Wellness & Beauty, an Oceanside skincare studio built around personalized skincare treatments. Recently honored with two Best of North County awards— Gold for Best in Facials and Bronze for Best in Day Spa—Kathleen's recognition is a reflection of the care she brings to every treatment. She's genuinely invested in understanding each client's skin, finding what works for them, and making sure they leave feeling as good as their skin looks. At KS Wellness & Beauty, no two facials are quite the same. Kathleen takes the time to assess each client's skin and tailor treatments to their individual needs, whether they're dealing with acne, dehydration, sensitivity or other concerns. Her approach prioritizes skin barrier repair and long-term health over aggressive treatments and overnight results. "For my facials, I meet clients where they are and focus on minimizing any chaos in their skin,” she said. “If you want your face to peel off, I am not your person. I want what's best for your skin, and I believe slow and steady wins the race.” If you’re looking to truly unwind, a facial with Kathleen is part of the protocol. Kathleen incorporates

hands-on massage throughout her facials, creating a treatment that feels equal parts skincare and relaxation. Beyond facials, Kathleen specializes in sugaring, an alternative to traditional waxing that uses a simple mixture of sugar, lemon, and water to remove unwanted hair. This treatment can be traced back thousands of years to ancient Egypt and is less harmful and invasive to the skin. She's also expanding her services with a new monthly skin coaching membership, combining a customized facial with one-on-one guidance to help clients build effective, realistic skincare routines at home. For Kathleen, education is a big part of the equation, and this new service is perfect for those looking for guidance throughout their skin journey. "Eighty percent of what happens on your skin happens at home. And I'm the rest," she said. “This program is designed to help make that eighty percent easier.” While KS Wellness & Beauty continues to grow, at its core the mission remains simple: create a welcoming space where everyone feels comfortable showing up as they are. As Kathleen puts it, "I want this to be a space for you to show up as you are, to feel comfortable and relaxed, and to leave feeling your most confident.” Visit her website for a full list of services and to book your next appointment. 16

Owner Kathleen Salamone

KS Wellness & Beauty 1930 S Coast Hwy, Suite 206, Room 4 (760) 826-3001 kswellnessandbeauty.com @ks.wellnessandbeauty

ZACH CORDNER

Thanksgiving is the 20th Anniversary of Oceanside's Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk & Kids Run.

NOVEMBER 2026 Sunday

Fisherman's Market @ Oceanside Harbor 8am-12pm

Monday

Fall Festival @ Mellano Farm Stand 10am-4pm

Tuesday

Comedy Night @ The Privateer Marketplace 7:30-8:30pm

Wednesday

Fisherman's Market @ Oceanside Harbor 8am-12pm

Comedy Night @ The Privateer Marketplace 7:30-8:30pm

Fisherman's Market @ Oceanside Harbor 8am-12pm

Sunset Market 5-9pm

First Friday @ Tremont Collective 5-10pm

" Darker the Night, Brighter the Stars” @ MiraCosta College Theatre 7:30-10pm

Friday Date Night @ Oceanside Art Collective 6-8pm

A Sublime Life Sobriety Festival @ Downtown 11am-4pm

Watercolor Wednesday @ Oceanside Art Collective 5-7pm

Sunset Market 5-9pm

VETERANS DAY

Bunny Yoga @ SpringHill Suites Oceanside Beach 1-2pm

Fisherman's Market @ Oceanside Harbor 8am-12pm

Oceanside Shock @ Frontwave Arena 7-10pm

The Group SD Veteran Meeting @ Municipal 11:30am

Comedy Night @ The Privateer Marketplace 7:30-8:30pm

Watercolor Wednesday @ Oceanside Art Collective 5-7pm

Watercolor Wednesday @ Oceanside Art Collective 5-7pm The Group SD Veteran Meeting @ Municipal 11:30am

Fisherman's Market @ Oceanside Harbor 8am-12pm

Saturday

Oceanside Shock @ Frontwave Arena 7-10pm

Friday

First Free Sunday @ OMA 12-2pm

Thursday Farmer's Market 9am-1pm

Farmer's Market 9am-1pm

First Friday Art Walk @ Artist Alley 5-8pm

High School Musical @ Brooks Theater 7-10pm

The Group SD Oceanside Meeting @ Municipal 9am

Farmer's Market 9am-1pm Sunset Market 5-9pm

THANKSGIVING O’SIDE TURKEY TROT

Friday Date Night @ Oceanside Art Collective 6-8pm

42nd Street @ Star Theatre 2-5pm

Billy King and The Bad Bad Bad, 37 Houses, Audrey and The Bloody Mary Bastards @ Pour House 8pm-12am

Outdoor Vintage and Makers Market @ Seahive Marketplace 11am-4pm

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY — SHOP LOCAL!

Mystic Soul Ritual Shop Spiritual Faire @ Aritst Alley 12-5pm

KEVIN MIJARES

Community Events Calendar November/December 2026

DECEMBER 2026 Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Comedy Night @ The Privateer Marketplace 7:30-8:30pm

Fisherman's Market @ Oceanside Harbor 8am-12pm

Free First Sundays @ OMA 12-2pm

Fisherman's Market @ Oceanside Harbor 8am-12pm

Kitten Yoga @ SpringHill Suites 11am-12pm

Comedy Night @ The Privateer Marketplace 7:30-8:30pm

Fisherman's Market @ Oceanside Harbor 8am-12pm

Watercolor Wednesday @ Oceanside Art Collective 5-7pm

Oceanside Shock @ Frontwave Arena 7-10pm

Watercolor Wednesday @ Oceanside Art Collective 5-7pm

Comedy Night @ The Privateer Marketplace 7:30-8:30pm

Farmer's Market 9am-1pm Sunset Market 5-9pm

Watercolor Wednesday @ Oceanside Art Collective 5-7pm The Group SD Veteran Meeting @ Municipal 11:30am

The Group SD Oceanside Meeting @ Municipal 9am

Oceanside Shock @ Frontwave Arena 7-10pm

Comedy Night @ The Privateer Marketplace 7:30-8:30pm

Thursday

The Group SD Veteran Meeting @ Municipal 11:30am

MOJO in Concert @ MiraCosta College 7:30-9:30pm

A Magical Cirque Christmas @ Frontwave Arena 4:30-8pm

Wednesday

Watercolor Wednesday @ Oceanside Art Collective 7:30-10pm The Group SD Veteran Meeting @ Municipal 11:30am

Farmer's Market 9am-1pm Sunset Market 5-9pm

Friday

HANUKKAH BEGINS

Saturday

First Friday Art Walk @ Artist Alley 5-8pm

First Friday @ Tremont Collective 5-10pm

Friday Date Night @ Oceanside Art Collective 6-8pm

HANUKKAH ENDS

Parade of Lights @ Oceanside Harbor 7pm

Annie, Jr. @ Star Theatre 7:30-9:30pm

Farmer's Market 9am-1pm Sunset Market 5-9pm

Friday Date Night @ Oceanside Art Collective 6-8pm

The Group SD Oceanside Meeting @ Municipal 9am

Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings @ Star Theatre 8:30-10pm

CHRISTMAS EVE Farmer's Market 9am-1pm Sunset Market 5-9pm

NEW YEARS EVE Farmer's Market 9am-1pm Sunset Market 5-9pm

CHRISTMAS

Outdoor Vintage and Makers Market @ Seahive Marketplace 11am-4pm

Mystic Soul Ritual Shop Spiritual Faire @ Aritst Alley 12-5pm

Arts

THE OSIDER NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

Kimmi Bitter WORDS: KAGAN SCHMIDT PHOTOS: ZACH CORDNER

Elevating modern classic country and pushing the envelope far beyond its limits, Kimmi Bitter and The West Side Twang are making waves within their hometown and the broader country scene. Resting along the coast of Oceanside–far removed from what would be considered a home to country artists, none better represents a burgeoning California country sound than Kimmi Bitter, alongside her group The West Side Twang, a cheeky play on words that also helps tether the group to their home. With stylings that hark back to icons of yesteryear, take for example Patsy Cline and Nancy Sinatra, Kimmi Bitter and company are building upon the countrypolitan sound but infusing it with coastal inspiration, psychedelia, and lush electric guitar soundscapes. Over a decade ago, Kimmi started her musical journey beginning as a singer-songwriter, developing a keen interest in guitar playing. Eventually she found herself searching for contemporaries to play with, leading her to discover Ben Neal, who is her current bassist. Ben and Kimmi formed a bond over their mutual interest in country and jammed together, igniting the first sparks that would eventually form The West Side Twang, which later added guitarist Willis Farnsworth. “I’ve never not been in a band with Ben,” Kimmi said. “And then Willis came around, maybe about a year after that. We all started very green together and grew together. And we started with a blues-rock band.” For three years, they found themselves touring

Kimmi with guitarist Willis Farnsworth.

as a blues band, making their way to festivals like South by Southwest in Austin, Texas. However, after a certain point it all came to a head. Singing blues vocals night after night pushed Kimmi’s voice beyond its limits, which in part, served as the impetus of her returning to her roots of covering classic country. “I just wanted to go back to my roots of, like, country, and that wasn’t really a thing here in San Diego,” Kimmi said. “And then I think just when I 21

got older, I was like, screw it. I’m just gonna do it. And then Ben and Willis kind of just came along for the ride.” Eventually, in early 2024, they released their album entitled Oldschool—which leaned into a more classic Americana sound, acting as a solid frame for what would become their sophomore album, Bittersweet. Released in August of this year, Bittersweet works to redefine the classic country groundwork they laid with their debut, flipping the

Arts

THE OSIDER NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

script by adding a psych haze that blankets the album in everything from ghostly to explosive riffage. These elements perfectly contrast with the mesmerizing countypolitan acoustic and vocals provided by Kimmi. “I think with the album, I really wanted to build upon my first album, Oldschool, which is really just more classic country,” she said. “And then this one is way more genre bendy with surf rock and psychedelic and a little bossa nova.” This newest album focuses on employing fat reverb -laden soundscapes, chasing its inspirations from a melting pot of not only tonal ideas, but of far off destinations to the likes of Hawaii, with songs like “Kaunakakai.” Kimmi Bitter’s hybridized sound offers a glimpse into what it would look like if you stuck a figure like Dolly Parton right next to a psych guitarist with Duane Eddy’s chops. For Kimmi, California– and more specifically Oceanside–is so deeply and intrinsically linked to her and her band that it reflects constantly in their tone, and moreover her style, which takes a page from ‘50s and ‘60s surfabilly culture. “I just have a hyper obsession with the ‘60s on so many different levels. I just feel like that era was peaking with music, art, and weirdness. I mean, not just music, but the architecture–like how homes were built, really cool and funky. Cars were really cool colors. They had flair and we don’t have any of that style anymore. And I just love it. So I’m just gonna live it because it’s like my own little mid-century paradise.” At a time where the pendulum of the music industry swings toward oversaturated country music that takes more of a liking to R&B, Kimmi and her gang offer a refreshing step forward, elevating modern classic country beyond its conventional boundaries. Although Oceanside isn’t what comes to mind when picturing country capitals of the world, nor does it fit the stereotypical backdrop, it is the heart and soul that Kimmi Bitter and The West Side Twang pours into their songs that reminds us that country music can exist anywhere. And within that sound, within the power in her voice and the twang, lies a reminder of the importance of home. Be on the lookout for their local shows as the year winds down, and expect them to hit the road next year for a tour. Check out her latest album on Spotify:

For more info go to kimmibitter.com and follow on Instagram @kimmibitter 22

Historical Oceanside THE OSIDER NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

Hill Top Motel

Roadside Dive Gets a Chance at a New Life WORDS: KRISTI HAWTHORNE PHOTOS COURTESY OF OCEANSIDE HISTORICAL SOCIETY

A not so iconic fixture along Oceanside’s Coast Highway may be getting a makeover. It has been described as an “okay place if you’re running out of options.” Far from a vacation destination resort, the Hill Top Motel at 1607 South Coast Highway, has been a low-budget option for travelers and locals. Regardless of its less than stellar reputation, the Hill Top has a history dating back to 1948

and includes two tragic events, a suicide and an unsolved murder. The first deadly incident was the suicide of Flora Dodson in 1954. She and her husband were the original owners of the motel property. Forrest Leroy and Flora (Kettering) Dodson were both natives of Illinois, married in 1907. The couple had two daughters, Marie and Edith.

Historical Oceanside THE OSIDER NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

Hill Top Motel, 1950s

In 1948 the Dodsons purchased property on the southwest corner of Morse and Hill Streets (Coast Highway) from Clifford Brodie. In June of that year, a permit was issued to build a small motel called Dodson’s Motel at 1607 South Hill Street for a cost of $19,000. A neon sign was erected in December 1948, and the motel was completed and ready for guests. Flora and Forrest led quiet lives on the busy Highway 101. They lived on the property while managing the auto court and visited often with their children and grandchildren. Sadly, Forrest Dodson died suddenly on May 29, 1954, and after 47 years of marriage, Flora was distraught and despondent with grief. She told her daughter Edith Lipman that she did not care to live any longer and that she had contemplated jumping off the end of the Oceanside pier. On December 12, just seven months after the death of her beloved husband, Flora ended her life. Her lifeless body was found lying on the floor in front of the kitchen gas range. Detectives from the Oceanside Police Department responded to the call and as they examined the scene, they noted that Flora had cut her left wrist with a safety

razor blade. A rifle and .22 cartridges were also found but unused. Instead, Flora had turned off the pilot lights in her wall heaters and stove, turned on the gas, and positioned herself on a kitchen stool until she was overcome by fumes. The coroner ruled her death a suicide. After her mother’s death, daughter Edith Lipman acquired the motel property which had since been renamed the Hill Top Motel. It was sold to Leonard and Bessie Robinson in 1957. The Robinsons lived on the property in the “owner apartment” and managed the eight-unit motel, which advertised “all the comforts at home” including carpet, kitchens, and free TV. By the mid-1960s, the Hilltop Motel was expanded with a two-story unit on the north end of the property. The Robinsons sold the property to Mr. and Mrs. William and Virginia Giffin who sold it to Dwight M. Pankey in 1970. It was purchased by Larry and Twyla Shaffer in 1974, and by 1976 the Hilltop Motel was offering daily rates of $10 and a weekly rate of $63. The clientele in the 1970s and 1980s were much different than the guests who stayed in the Dodson Motel in the 1940s and 1950s. Things 26

were changing in Oceanside with a rising crime rate, even in South Oceanside, which is a vibrant and trendy neighborhood today. In 1988 the crime rate had increased 24 percent and it was reported that Oceanside had the biggest increase in violent crime in the entire state for the first six months of the year. That violent crime included Oceanside’s first reported homicide of the year – at the Hilltop Motel. On January 22, 1988, Rocco Anthony William Pittro, Jr. (aka Pietro) was found murdered in Room No. 8. Pittro had been discovered by the motel’s manager. Left in a pool of blood, he had been stabbed seven times. The manager told police that Pittro and a man by the name of Carl had been seen together and that Pittro had told him he would have a male friend visiting. The manager of the motel had gone to the room to check on him the following day, presumably after Pittro missed check out, entered the room with a pass key, and discovered the dead guest. Pittro was born August 7, 1927, in Illinois. He was divorced and living in Mission Viejo. Differing reports list his occupation as an interior decorator to construction.

1970s

The coroner’s report stated that he was found in “a prone position on the bed and his body was cold to the touch.” There were three stab wounds to the back of his body and multiple stab wounds to his chest and abdomen, as well as a laceration to his left hand. The bedding under his body was blood soaked, and there was dried blood spattered on the wall opposite the foot of the bed and on the head of the bed. More specifically, Pittro was stabbed in the heart as well as in the lungs and suffered from multiple blunt injuries. The murder weapon was not found but Homicide Detective Sheila Hancock reported, “I think we’ve got some good physical evidence.” The victim’s 1985 Nissan pickup truck had been stolen and later recovered abandoned in central Los Angeles. In March, a sixteen-year-old Oceanside youth was arrested for the murder and booked into juvenile hall, but his name was withheld because of his age. Three days later, he was released. Detective Hancock said there was insufficient evidence to prosecute the teenager at the time. Police said the teen lived with his parents on nearby Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, and they continued to look for information linking the teenager to the killing. In September 1988, Oceanside detectives released a crude sketch looking for someone by the name of Chris or Carl. But with no suspects in custody, the case eventually went cold and then forgotten. However, with properly stored evidence, this case could likely be solved today with DNA or even fingerprinting. If the walls in the Hill Top’s Room 8 could only talk… While the motel’s history dates back over 80 years, it appears it has a new future. Recent plans for the property include room renovations, a new lobby, along with interior and exterior improvements throughout. So much is changing in Oceanside. Will the Hill Top Motel live on? 27

ZACH CORDNER (6)

7 Siblings, Best Dessert

Wise Women Sourdough, Fan Favorite Award

Craft Coast, Best Dish

The Lobby Tiki Bar, Best Cocktail JULIAN JOLIFFE (2)

Oceanside's very own Obed Padilla headlined.

Oside Flavor baby! What else is there to say? This year was what we feel was our best one yet, and we couldn’t have done it without the support of our amazing community. Thank you to each and every person that purchased a ticket, showed up, and brought that

Oside Flavor that no other city can. We had over 90 food, drink, and event vendors and want to thank them specifically for taking part. We know that there are many underlying costs and employees being taken away from your fine establishments for the evening. It does not go unnoticed, and we 29

truly appreciate the support for the community. We would also like to personally thank each and every event sponsor: Cabana Concepts, Solis Team Realty, Ace Hardware, Left Coast Cannabis, The Proper 32, Oside Handmade, Brilliant Event Lighting, Ashley’s Party Rentals, Spinning Meats,

2026 its a wrap! PHOTOS BY KEVIN MIJARES AND JULIAN JOLLIFFE

and SoCal Sports Complex for hosting us. You guys truly are the difference and allow us to make the event shine like a star. Big love goes out to our rocking musical acts: The Cherry Bombs, Zochi Beats, DJ Cheeseburger, and our headliner, Obed Padilla. Thank you for keeping the vibes high throughout the night.

Huge congratulations to our Best Flavor winners: Lobby Tiki Bar took home Best Cocktail, Seven Siblings won Best Dessert, Craft Coast won Best Dish, and Wise Women Sourdough won the Cabana Concepts Fan Favorite Award. From everyone at The Osider and Pier Club Presents, thank you all for showcasing why the 31

Oceanside community is the best there is. See you next year! Cheers, Jamey Stone

WORDS: ELIZABETH SCHWARTZE PHOTOS: MIKE YOSHIDA 32

ZACH CORDNER (3)

Bruce Parker and Mike Yoshida signing copies of their book at their recent release party and photo exhibition at Municipal in South O.

Documenting Oceanside, one story and one photograph at a time, is a gift to future generations. What is present-day will one day be history, and it’s so powerful to go back and read about our great city and have it come alive through words and photographs. Newly released Tower 7 by photographer Mike Yoshida is a powerful photodocumentary of Oceanside. The book is a 130 -page passion project as told through photos of Bruce Parker, a.k.a. The Oceanside Trenchcoat Guy. Bruce star ted walking the beaches of Oceanside in a trenchcoat, not for fame or notoriety, but simply for his health. When photographer Mike Yoshida met Bruce five years ago, he knew

immediately that he wanted to document Bruce with a book. Tower 7 is a perfectly curated visual of present-day Oceanside with funny, kind, and wise Bruce Parker as the main character. A little about Bruce Parker: some refer to him as Oceanside’s mascot, its spokesperson, or even a cultural icon known as “Mr. Oceanside,” but mostly, he’s known around town as Bruce. Bruce hails from the Los Angeles suburb, Montebello. He arrived in Oceanside in 1995, enjoying the beach just like any other beachgoer until he received a very serious skin cancer diagnosis. His doctor told him he couldn’t be in the sun, or his type of cancer would progress. In 2008, the lack of sun was causing depression 33

so Bruce remedied a solution—to cover himself in a wool trenchcoat and resume his Oceanside beach walks. It may be unconventional, but needless to say, The Oceanside Trenchcoat Guy is simply the story of a man that loves Oceanside beaches so much, covering his body from headto-toe was an easy choice. The Trenchcoat Guy has not only become a local celebrity, he is also a 79 year-old man, living his best life by walking five miles per day, staying healthy, cancer-free, and making people smile. There are so many offbeat characteristics to Bruce, it’s easy to understand why Mike Yoshida would want to write a book about him. For example, Bruce is sporting a new trenchcoat. When asked

where he gets his new coats from, the straightforward response: “eBay!” Bruce orders his doublebreasted, black, wool trenchcoats from eBay. And when asked why he goes into the ocean fully dressed, the answer is simple, “because I get hot.” Two cool facts about Bruce are, 1) he owns a 1931 Ford Model A that can be seen in some of The Osider photos; and 2) he has visited all 50 states. Bruce’s authenticity fascinated Yoshida when he moved to Oceanside in 2018. He shared his first time meeting Bruce, “I started seeing photos pop up and thinking he’s doing some pretty wild stuff. I contacted him on Instagram just to gauge his interest in photos, and he was very open to do what was needed. I shot a good chunk of photos in the Tower 7 book that first day. I think after the first day, I knew I wanted to make a book about him. And Bruce is Oceanside royalty at this point.” Yoshida recalled, “One of the most memorable moments is when we set up a shot where I was on the pier and he was right where the water’s edge is below me. He’s down on the sand. I’m up on the pier shooting photos. A guy ran up frantically and asked if he was dead.”

Originally from Alaska, Yoshida built a career in the snowboard industry and is now a worldrenowned snowboard photographer. His career began when he moved to Washington to attend Washington State in Bellingham, where he lived for fifteen years. While working at the nearby ski resort, Mt. Baker, a lightbulb career moment occurred, “If I like the mountains, photography, and snowboarding, I could do this [become a professional photographer].” Mike had access to professional snowboarders on the slopes at Mt. Hood and Mt. Baker. He would sell his photos to the snowboard brands, in turn, fostering a relationship. When he was a staff photographer with K 2, he got the call from Snowboarder Magazine, which led to him working there for seven years as the associate photo editor and social media manager. He explained, “I’m still actively shooting snowboarding, just now in Southern California, which is a little further from the snow, but riders still trust me to shoot their portfolios. Oceanside is a huge hub for professional snowboarders, and there’s a really cool professional snowboard community here. They’re gone in winter but they’re here the rest of the year.” 34

For over five years, Yoshida has been documenting Bruce. “I knew a book would be visually appealing. Turns out, it’s not as easy as it sounds. It’s like a movie or a song. It builds and then comes down. There’s a cadence to making the book. My logic is in the book—a break in Bruce photos with photos that scream Oceanside,” Yoshida explained. The book took approximately twenty-four months to create, but Yoshida was waiting for the right moment with potential sponsors. Eventually, he had the realization, “All right, I’m just going to make this book on my own. That actually gave me an extra year to capture necessary pictures to complement my storytelling of life not in the trench coat—Oceanside beach scenery, life at the beach.” The end product is a physical book that features high-quality offset printing, a soft-touch cover, and premium interior paper to showcase each photo at the highest possible quality. On October 9, 2026, Yoshida released his photodocumentary Tower 7 to the public in a curated event at Municipal Headquarters in South Oceanside. Of course, Bruce was there, donning his new trenchcoat, gladly autographing books, pictures, and meeting his fans.

KEVIN MIJARES

Hundreds of supporters milled through Municipal and admired Yoshida’s hard work in Tower 7. The resounding sentiment is that Osiders feel connected to Bruce as one of their own and enjoyed learning about him. So many attendees shared their “first time I saw Bruce” stories. Joni Yribe described, “The first time I saw Bruce I was a little bit scared. There was a man in a giant coat, at the sea wall, holding what I thought was a weapon, turns out it was a GoPro stick for selfies.” And on that note, yes, the local dispatchers get plenty of calls from tourists about a trenchcoated man walking into the ocean—a jarring thing to

witness. Bruce has met many of the dispatchers, and they know exactly how to answer those calls. “Well, at high tide, you’ll find me at Tower 7, or the stairs on Ash Street,” Bruce said of his routine. “But low tide, that’s when I get to walk the whole beach, and if I get hot, I walk into the ocean, or lay down in a tidepool. That’s probably when they get the most emergency calls,” Bruce chuckled. Bruce’s parting wisdom to his supporters, “You have to live your life for yourself—not for anyone else and not in a way that harms anyone else. If you’re nice to people, it usually comes back. And just give everyone the opportunity!” 35

To purchase Tower 7, and to learn more about Mike Yoshida please use the QR below. As for Bruce, he’s easy to find either by hanging out near Tower 7, or by following him on social media: @oceanside_trenchcoat_guy

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Community THE OSIDER NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

BASE Programs WORDS: ELIZABETH SCHWARTZE PHOTOS: KEVIN MIJARES

Two of Oceanside’s Finest (November/December 2022 issue), Corie Sandor and Denise Anderson McConnell are the founders of BASE (Before & After School Enrichment) Programs, an Oceanside business success story serving fourteen Oceanside Unified School District (OUSD) elementary schools. BASE is a community rooted organization dedicated to helping young people discover their potential through high quality expanded learning. BASE Programs are the lifeline so many families need to extend the school day for their students. However, it’s not just a place for kids to hang out before and after school, it’s a visionary child care program offered entirely for free. “The idea is that we’re trying to help students find out who they are and expose them to as much content as possible to find that ‘spark,” explained Corie. “The school day is regimented with curriculum. It’s nice to spend the hours before and after trying out different hobbies, activities, and making a connection that can’t be made during the typical school day.” Now, in their nineteenth year of running BASE, their continued investment in Oceanside’s youth is testament to the thriving program. It’s a common dilemma for most families—the school day doesn’t cover the typical work day and childcare is too expensive. Students need care before, after, and in the summer. Since 2008, BASE programs have implemented intentional programs designed by the founders themselves. The two are both former Oceanside Unified students, and they later connected while studying Human Development at CSUSM. Their knowledge of Oceanside and thoughtful implementation has led to a robust program including fourteen elementary school sites, which include all of Camp Pendleton

Palmquist Skate School is one of the many activities offered to OUSD students through Base Programs.

school sites (two of those schools are under Fallbrook Unified Elementary). They serve 2,700 students and employ over 200 team members. Summer is covered by BASE programs, too! The 2026 Summer Camp was a success with 2,390 students enrolled. It was open to any student in OUSD for no cost and included field trips and screen-free quality enrichment for nine hours a day! BASE started small at Garrison Elementary in 2008 and grew at a steady pace. It was 2016 when they started programs at Palmquist Elementary and saw exponential growth. As a non-profit 501(c)(3), BASE is entirely free for all OUSD students. Absolutely no cost 38

and available to every student! It’s really a remarkable offering and collaboration with OUSD. To know that families can stay at work and have their child(ren) provided the highest quality programming entirely for free is exceptional. Another remarkable fact is that BASE has no wait list! If a student needs placement, they will find a spot for them, even if that means hiring more staff. The educational model utilized by BASE programs is intentionally designed around positive youth development, hands-on learning, and meaningful relationship building, and is governed by California Department of Education (CDE).

Denise and Corie are excited to share what makes BASE so unique: Student voice & choice: Students help shape their experiences through clubs, leadership opportunities, surveys, and feedback. Discovering their spark: Every student deserves the opportunity to discover something they’re passionate about. Real world learning: BASE introduces students to careers, experiences, and skills they might not otherwise encounter. Equity & access: High quality enrichment shouldn’t be determined by a family’s income. BASE programs allow students of all backgrounds to access quality enrichment. Community partnerships: BASE works alongside community partners, school district, school staff, and families to bring a program that is relevant and meaningful to students. Whole child development: Academic success matters, but so do belonging, confidence, creativity, physical wellness, and emotional development. Our team is an additional layer of support for students. While many students change teachers every year, some of our teams get to see the continuity of the student’s growth year after year. They interact with families and teachers to help bridge both worlds for students. A connected school experience: BASE collaborates with school day educators while

providing a distinct environment where students can learn differently, explore new interests and discover new talents. Grossroots organization: From day one, everything is implemented by the founders, Corie and Denise. “We are often encouraged to think outside the box,” Corie explained. "But what if real innovation comes from reimagining what’s possible within it? Public education is rooted in something beautiful—a sense of community, connection, and belonging. We all have the opportunity to dream big, explore new ideas, and build something extraordinary together. And we are here for it!” BASE programs have expanded to include before and after school care (AM/PM), clubs, enrichment classes, summer camps, vendors, field trips, school day programs such as Learning Labs (TK/Kinder Program), and Recess League (recess enhancement program). It’s inspiring to know that Oceanside’s youngest scholars are held in such high regard with purposeful programming to bridge the school/home life. And, the ladies aren’t stopping their forward momentum to provide the highest quality programming. “We worked with Oceanside Parks and Rec to help waterproof Oceanside. All third grade students are welcome to register through BASE to attend swim classes taught by the City of Oceanside. BASE drives them to the pools and the city provides 39

the lessons. We have offered to South O and Laurel first. Next spring will be Palmquist and Mission. We are waterproofing from the coast inward, school by school,” Corie said. From top-down, BASE benefits the entire community. Utilizing local vendors, small businesses, and communit y members that can provide programming to the students is one of their greatest assets. They have partnerships with CSUSM, City of Oceanside, and ultimately, it’s their collaboration with OUSD to make public education more equitable, engaging, and meaningful, elevating BASE from other child care programs. After nineteen years, Denise still carries the ideals that created their success, “I believe we are called to this work for a purpose greater than ourselves. As mentors and educators, our role is simply not to teach, but to inspire, nurture curiosity, and help every student discover the creative spark and extraordinary potential that already lives within them.” Four years later, The Osider is proud to say, Corie and Denise are truly commanding their title as Oceanside’s Finest.

For more info please visit baseprograms.com and follow on Instagram @baseprograms

Once again, The Osider pays respects to our skateboard roots with the limited release of our new Cassidy Street deck

Get ‘em while they last at TheOsider.com

8.9" X 32" 14.25" WHEEL BASE 6.5" TAIL 7" NOSE

OWN THE COAST AT TOWER 1888 I N

O C E A N S I D E

This is your opportunity to call the heart of Oceanside home. From rooftop sunset views* to morning walks along the beach and evenings spent enjoying the energy of downtown, Tower 1888 offers more than a home near the coast—it offers the rare opportunity to call the heart of Oceanside your own. This limited collection of modern single-level flats places the very best of Oceanside just outside your door. Now is the time to make it yours.

Approximately 1,000 to 1,630 Sq.Ft. Flats | 2 to 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths Community Rooftop Deck and Underground Parking | Priced from $915,000 — Community Representative: Spencer Selva | Spencer.Selva@SheaHomes.com | 866.901.4593 2110 S Coast Hwy., Suite A, Oceanside CA 92054 Daily Hours: Tues. - Sun., 10am - 5pm | Mon., 2pm - 5pm

SheaHomes.com *VIEWS VARY SIGNIFICANTLY BY LOT LOCATION AND MAY BE AFFECTED BY FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OR OTHER ACTIVITIES. NEITHER SELLER NOR THE PAYMENT OF ANY PREMIUM GUARANTEES THE PRESERVATION OF ANY VIEW WHICH MAY BE PRESENT AT THE TIME OF PURCHASE OR ANYTIME THEREAFTER. Pricing does not include options, elevation, or lot premiums, effective date of publication and subject to change without notice. Community Representative, Spencer Selva (DRE#02160482) is a licensed sales agent. Sales: Shea Homes Marketing Company (DRE#01378646), Construction: SHSC GC, Inc. (CSLB #1012096). This is not an offer for real estate for sale, nor solicitation of an offer to buy to residents of any state or province in which registration and other legal requirements have not been fulfilled. Buyers of Shea homes are not required to use Shea Mortgage as their lender. Buyers may select any lending institution for the purpose of securing mortgage financing and are not limited to Shea Mortgage. NMLS ID #40397, DRE #01197403. Features and plans subject to change without notice. All square footages and measurements are approximate and subject to change without notice. Windows and doors may vary per elevation. Home pictured may not be actual home for sale or actual model home, but rather a representation of a similar model or elevation design. Photos depict designer features, optional items and other upgrades that may be available from Seller at additional cost. Trademarks are property of their respective owners. Models are not an indication of racial preference. Equal Housing Opportunity. 12/2026 *Although we ask that you prequalify, buyers of Shea Homes are not required to use our preferred lender as their lender, are free to use any lender of their choosing for the purpose of securing mortgage financing, are not limited to our preferred lender and are free to decline any incentives tied to the use of our preferred lender.

Brewpub & Market Japanese x Hawaiian Craft Beer . Fresh Sushi . BBQ . Specialty Japanese Goods

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HeritageSKTBDS 1019 S. Coast Highway 442-266-8002 Oceanside CA 92054 Johnny Greene/Melon grab PHOTO: JONAS ABRAHAMS

R.I.P. Sharon Harrison / Rodney Johnson / Aaron Schmidt Eric Stricker / Kevin Wilkins / Devin Curran

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Local Business THE OSIDER NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

Owners Mark and Mike Nelson

The Machine Shop Oceanside WORDS: ELIZABETH SCHWARTZE PHOTOS: ZACH CORDNER

The brick-and-mortar building that houses The Osider was recently purchased, and the backstory is pretty cool…well, more interesting than most straightforward building sales. For 65 years, the property in the valley of Oceanside between Mission Avenue and Airport Road was owned by the same family, the Josepho’s. The Josepho’s built a legacy and supported many businesses in 65 years of ownership. Now, the legacy has been passed to new owners, but the connection is just as meaningful, and the new owners will honor its history and enhance its potential. In November 2025, MANNA Capital Partners purchased the six-building, 45,000 sq. ft. property that spans three acres of prime Oceanside real estate. It’s now deemed The Machine Shop | Oceanside. MANNA is the business name for the company owned by two brothers that hail from South Africa, Mark and Michael Nelson. The brothers visited Oceanside in their twenties when they lived in San Diego for a few years and felt very connected to the city because it resembled their home in South Africa. However, the remarkable connection to the building, now owned by the Nelson brothers, has a story that began 25 years ago halfway across the world. In 2005, at 25 years old, Michael Nelson was beginning his career in industrial real estate in Chicago. His father called from South Africa, offering him a coveted spot on a surf trip in the Mentawai Islands in Indonesia. A fellow surf-seeker on the

Mentawai boat trip was Steve Josepho from Oceanside. While Michael was just beginning his career, Steve had decades of experience managing a real estate portfolio. Throughout the trip, they connected on the waves, shared stories and wisdom about the real estate industry, and then parted ways to resume their lives with no real further connection, until…. Twenty years later, in 2025, Mark and Michael Nelson had spent more than two decades building their industrial real estate brokerage business in Chicago. They became well-versed in industrial properties, not just how to buy and sell them, but how to identify hidden value and envision what a property could become. After their nostalgic, but brief residence in San Diego back in 2002, the brothers were ready to return to the city after building lucrative careers in Chicago. The brothers moved back to San Diego in 2019, and began looking for investment opportunities in the area. Then they found one in Oceanside and the owner happened to be someone Michael remembered from that long ago surf trip twenty years earlier: Steve Josepho. The Oceanside property was perfectly positioned, close to I-5, SR-76, and the soon-to-be-developed Ocean Kamp wave park. The brothers believed that with the right investment, management and vision, the property could be transformed. In November 2025, they acquired the portfolio and began re-positioning it as The Machine Shop | Oceanside. The name honors the legacy of the 44

Josepho’s and its Oceanside history while preparing for the future of innovative businesses. “The strategy was straightforward: improve the physical appearance of the property, enhance the tenant experience, improve operations, bring rents closer to market and unlock value that had been sitting inside the asset for decades. In many ways, the opportunity represented everything the brothers had learned over the previous twenty years: how to recognize value, build relationships, take calculated risks and see beyond what something is today to what it could become tomorrow.” The “board meeting” that occurred on a surf trip in Indonesia decades earlier with Michael Nelson and Steve Josepho ultimately turned into a true Oceanside surf story because, according to Michael, “Every once in a while, the most important ‘board meeting’ you’ll ever have happens on a surfboard.” The future is promising for the twenty-two tenants, including The Osider, currently located in the building, with the company describing the acquisition: “As MANNA steps in, we’re proud to rebrand the complex as The Machine Shop | Oceanside, honoring its history while preparing it for the next generation of innovative businesses. Our team will be implementing strategic upgrades and repositioning to meet the needs of today’s sophisticated tenant base. With its prime infill location, three-miles from the Pacific Ocean and high barrier-to-entry market, this acquisition represents a rare long-term valueadd opportunity.”

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Local Business THE OSIDER NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

A D V E R T O R I A L

High Rollers & Noble Victory

Owners Alexandria Kometas and Coltin Barody

WORDS: CARMEN COX PHOTOS: ZACH CORDNER

Oceanside welcomes Noble Victory, one of its first cannabis storefront dispensaries, this upcoming year. This is very exciting news considering how many Osiders venture out of town to get their medicinal cannabis needs met since there has not been a storefront available. This marks a shift in the city‘s stance against cannabis retailers and, frankly, it’s been a long time coming. And quite smart because this industry is thriving in Encinitas and Vista. One might ask why does Oceanside need a storefront when there are plenty of delivery services in town? A retail location is critical for those who want to physically inspect the product and enjoy a larger variety of options. It is important to mention that offering a storefront provides a level of support for novice cannabis customers who need to get the proper expert advice to help them with whatever ails them. Whether it’s needed to calm anxiety, combat sleeplessness, or help ease chronic pain or illness, cannabis is a wonderful and natural source of support for many Osiders. We were happy to sit down with the owners of Noble Victory Dispensary, which will be located on 1401 Mission Avenue. They are a very down to earth and lovely couple, Coltin Barody and Alexandria Kometas, happily married for seventeen years with three young children. Coltin is a Navy veteran with eight years served in both the Presidential Honor Guard in Washington DC and also as a mine sweeper spending time abroad in South America. He strongly believes in cannabis’ healing properties as it has helped him cope with anxiety stemming from the PTSD acquired during his time in the military. Alexandria also passionately supports cannabis for its medicinal properties and, due to her education in human genetics at CSU

Northridge, recognizes how truly important cannabis and THC are for those suffering from cancer. She’s a keen researcher and dove into how it can benefit this population as sadly her own father passed away much too soon after losing his brave battle with cancer. Alex knows about how THC can help cancer patients battle the extreme side effects of chemotherapy like pain, inflammation, and nausea. She, like Coltin, is eager to provide Oceanside residents with a place to learn about cannabis, shop, and enjoy their cannabis products. Coltin and Alexandria believe wholeheartedly in the positive use of cannabis and simply want to provide others with a great experience. They work hard to supply the best quality products that include a variety of name brands and their own brand of cannabis, Left Coast. Important to note, Left Coast was Oceanside’s first manufacturer and distributor of cannabis since 2018. They have worked tirelessly to try and bring a storefront to the people of Oceanside and their projected opening is late spring, early summer. We are excited for them and our community as the benefits are endless. While there has been a lot of talk in the community about their chosen location, it is critical to note that their location on Mission was zoned and specified by the city and is the only location that qualified and whose landlord was willing to rent to a cannabis company. As parents, they know how important child safety is and have established a safety plan that includes many safeguards, including forbidding anyone under the legal age limit from coming in. It’s great to hear that they plan on giving back to Oceanside by donating one percent of their monthly sales. They have proudly partnered with local non-profit, Un Mar De Colores, by 46

selecting them as the community beneficiary for their donation. This will help support their after school program for eighth graders in Oceanside. The program meets three times a week Tuesday through Thursday and blends tutoring, mentorship, mental health services and ocean recreation experiences. This partnership sounds amazing and we love that it supports local children in a unique way. Coltin and Alex also just opened their first dispensary in Vista called High Rollers and strive for excellence in both customer service and quality cannabis. They proudly hire locals who have experience in the cannabis field and can really help their clients get the information and medicine they need to better their lives. The budtenders are amazingly friendly, knowledgeable, and patient as I asked many questions. Their shop is lively with a very cool vibe and fun tropical decor! Coltin and Alex want to personally invite Oceanside residents to their new Vista location so they can check out their fresh cannabis and cannabis products. They are even offering 20 percent off if you mention seeing this article in The Osider, so be sure to use that on your next visit! Just try not to get mesmerized by their trippy ocean floor feature as you walk in. Be sure to stop by and say a quick hi to Alexandria, Coltin, and their trusted staff; they’ll be happy to help you fulfill all your cannabis needs.

High Rollers 1010 E. Vista Way (760) 525-9007 Highrollers.shop @highrollersvista

TRUSTED LOCAL EXPERT. JOEL MUZZEY REAL ESTATE

760.815.3649 JOELMUZZEY.COM

CA DRE: 02144768

Top Notch Barber Shop 3126 San Luis Rey Rd. Oceanside Ca, 92058

Local Retailer THE OSIDER NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

Goblin Shark Emporium WORDS: KATIE LALICATA PHOTOS: KEVIN MIJARES

In the spirit of keeping Oceanside weird, Goblin Shark Emporium, a boutique retail, gift, and novelty shop, nestled cozily on Coast Highway and Seagaze, takes the cake. Lifelong artist turned entrepreneur and business owner, Kelly King and her store Goblin Shark embodies everything eclectic, funky, and edgy that make Oceanside, Oceanside. It’s really cool here! For example, upon entry instead of the mundane doorbell ding, one is greeted by a cat's meow. Literally a “meow.” Fun, right? But the sassy cat doorbell is just the tip of the iceberg of what’s to be found inside. What’s the inspiration? Well, according to Kelly it's quite simple, “It’s local artists and the wild stuff they make, and all the weird and wonderful things you don’t see at other gift shops. Everything in here is one of a kind and small batch and original and unique.” Beyond that sentiment, there is a new and used/vintage and modern clothing boutique, hosted by Crimson Collective. There are vinyl records, cassettes, and VHS tapes. There’s also a Goblin “art” Gallery, the main feature of the store with a rotating monthly theme featuring a menagerie of local creators. Stickers, candles, a black light corner inspired by an obsession with Meow Wolf, all hold court in a different nook of the shop. Meow Wolf is an immersive art attraction that has inspired Kelly so deeply that her ultimate goal is to open an immersive art attraction, aptly titled Serious Nonsense, for all of you, right here in Oceanside. Kelly didn’t miss a beat with a single detail

of her store. A goblin shark is in fact a real animal, a deep sea creature that has a jaw which shoots out, and is a funky, fleshy pink color that embodies everything weird and wild that the store represents. It’s an epic testament to one of the many why’s and how’s of Oceanside being honored as a cultural arts district. As a lifelong artist herself (makeup artist in Hollywood, sculptor for Legoland, NBD) Kelly understands the gravity that arts and culture play in a community. Every month on the first Saturday from 5-8pm, she hosts an opening reception to launch the new presentation of the Goblin Gallery. She is truly openhearted and inclusive and her store is a representation of that. She’s even collaborated with local philanthropist Robert Parker and exhibits a piano from the Public Piano Project in front of her store. Every last item in the store is an ode and salute to local artists. Even their Goblin Shark merch boasts the designs of Nicholas Danger, the same person who painted the mural on their walls and the piano. A mural that has, of course, bigfoot, aliens, a space cat, and yes, you guessed it, even a goblin shark. In a time where life is begging for some lighthearted whimsy, Kelly and Goblin Shark are 48

Owner Kelly King

offering exactly that. Serious nonsense, in the most magic kind of way, is being sold here indeed. Want to keep your spending in the community these coming months? Goblin Shark is rad, cool, and catchy treasures adorn the shelves around every turn. This is hands down worthy of a visit for an afternoon of shopping or some epic holiday gifts!

Goblin Shark Emporium 109 S Coast Highway (442) 266-8216 goblinsharkemporium.com @goblinsharkemporium

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Dining: Inland THE OSIDER NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

Anticuchos

Ceviche de Pescado

The Latin Chef

Tallarin Saltado de Pollo

WORDS: SHELBY ROWE PHOTOS: ZACH CORDNER

Lomo Saltado

Tucked inside the Oceanside Marketplace on Oceanside Boulevard, The Latin Chef is serving up traditional Peruvian flavors with a whole lot of heart. Come hungry because there’s plenty to explore on the menu. Behind the restaurant are husband-and-wife duo Tony Kanashiro and Jeanette Ventura, who have spent years building something special around Tony’s cooking. With more than 35 years of culinary experience, Tony learned his craft alongside his grandmother and aunties in Peru before making a name for himself in Los Angeles. His food has earned him a loyal following, including celebrities, who have traveled from places like San Francisco, Arizona and beyond just to get a taste. Now, Oceanside gets to call him its own. What makes The Latin Chef stand out is its commitment to authenticity. While some restaurants adapt traditional recipes to suit different tastes, Tony sticks with the ingredients and techniques he grew up with. He also specializes in chifa, the ChinesePeruvian cuisine that blends flavors and cooking traditions from both cultures—a rare find around here. It’s pretty special to have a chef with this kind of experience sharing his food in our backyard. This was my first time trying traditional Peruvian

food, and I was blown away. After one taste, it’s easy to see why Tony has such a fantastic reputation for his cooking. We started with the Ceviche de Pescado, made with white swai fish marinated in freshly squeezed lemon juice and rocoto, served with yams, corn, and red onions. This dish was so fresh and light with a perfect balance of citrus and spice. Next we tried the Tallarin Saltado de Pollo, featuring flame-sautéed chicken, red onions, tomatoes, and noodles. And also the Lomo Saltado, with flame-sautéed strips of beef, red onions, tomatoes, and cilantro, served alongside fries and rice. Both dishes were packed with flavor and showcased the satisfying, savory side of Peruvian cooking. We also tried the Arroz con Mariscos, a seafood rice dish filled with a healthy serving of shrimp, mussels, calamari and octopus. It’s a seafood lover's dream and impeccably flavorful. For Tony and Jeanette, the best part of running The Latin Chef is connecting with the Oceanside community. They love welcoming families through the door and seeing longtime fans who have followed Tony’s cooking for years. So, next time, give The Latin Chef a try and experience the best of Peruvian cooking. 50

Chef Tony Kanashiro

The Latin Chef 4259 Oceanside Blvd #105 (760) 201-8997 @thelatinchef_oceanside

Dining: Coastal THE OSIDER NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

Red Snapper Ceviche Tostada

Victor's Beef Fillet Taco

Soft Shell Crab Taco

La Corriente Cocina Del Pacifico WORDS: JAMEY STONE PHOTOS: ZACH CORDNER

San Diego has always been known for some of the best Mexican food in California. Everything from the California burrito to fish tacos can be found up and down the coast and are always done well. But every once in a while, something different comes along. Sure, we have a ton of great mariscos places to choose from, but La Corriente hits on another level. Born in Tijuana by founder Karim Reza, they focus on fresh local ingredients and a very tight clean menu. Tostadas are one of the specialties, and they do a red snapper version that truly sets them apart from the rest. I highly recommend giving this one a try. The taste is fresh and clean with immaculate preparation along with simple but well put together ingredients. They start with raw thinly sliced red snapper, red onion, avocado, and house aioli and sprinkle it with piquin chili powder on top. This is just one of many amazing tostadas on the menu. Another cool treat on offer is the popcorn shrimp served with fresh guacamole for dipping.

These are medium whole shrimp battered and served like popcorn and is a perfect share item to get you started. The shrimp and fish tacos are great too, but one surprise that I didn’t expect from a seafood forward restaurant was Victor’s beef fillet taco. This thing hits on so many levels. It’s served on a flour tortilla with crispy melted cheese, a slab of New York prime steak, fresh house salsa, and charred serrano salsa. Oh, and how do we not include the softshell crab taco? That’s right, softshell crab in taco form, are you kidding me? This one is a must try, and what goes better with fresh Mexican seafood food, than a cold margarita, or michelada? Their full bar has a nice selection of tequilas and cocktails to take your meal to another level. It’s no wonder that La Coirriente has crossed the border with great success and has multiple locations throughout San Diego and now Oceanside. We humbly thank you for coming our way. Welcome to our community.

Popcorn Fish and a Michelada

La Corriente Cocina Del Pacifico 510 Vista Way (760) 231-9730 Lacorrientedelpacifico.com @lacorrienteoceanside

HI, I’M AGGIE CARPENTER I’m a REALTOR® with Compass, and for more than 20 years I have specialized in Oceanside real estate. I don’t just follow this market— I live here, I know the neighborhoods, and I believe deeply in our community. From coastal homes and established neighborhoods to emerging opportunities, I help buyers and sellers make smart, confident decisions backed by experience, strategy, and local insight. My clients choose me because I combine: • Proven results • Top market performance • Honest guidance and personal service Nobody knows Oceanside real estate like I do—and I’m proud to call it home. • 20+ Years Oceanside Specialization • Top-Ranking Agent in the Oceanside Market • Compass | Industry-Leading Marketing & Technology Aggie Carpenter REALTOR® | Compass DRE # 01458081

(760) 696-0067

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Dining: Coastal THE OSIDER NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

The Burger and a Guinness

The Western Burger

The Reuben

Seasonal baked goods

Copper Kings WORDS: SHELBY ROWE PHOTOS: KEVIN MIJARES

A good burger doesn’t need much: a great bun, an even better patty, and all the fixins in between. It all boils down to a few simple ingredients made really well. But at Copper Kings, co-owners Jonathan Petr and Dermot Owens would argue that getting those few things right takes a whole lot of work. Located right off Mission Avenue on Horne Street, Copper Kings is bringing its scratch-made burger philosophy to Oceanside, the very place where the business first got its start. Petr and Owens launched the concept in 2020, taking their mobile kitchen to breweries and gathering spots throughout North County before opening their first brick-and-mortar restaurant in San Marcos in 2023. Now, they’ve made their way back to the coast with a bigger kitchen, a growing menu, and plenty of room to play. “We chose the path of most resistance, and we feel that it shows,” Petr says. One look into the kitchen tells you exactly what he means. The team cures its own bacon, makes its sauces and dressings from scratch, bakes Japanese milk buns, and even makes its own American-style cheese. The Reuben gets particularly serious attention; its

pastrami is brined for two weeks before being smoked overnight. “There’s nothing we do that you can’t do,” Petr says. “It’s just the time, energy, and love that we decide to put into it.” That labor of love is shown clearly in the variety of dishes on the menu. The Burger, aka the original burger that built the business, is still holding it down as a staple, while other must-tries include The Western for those who love a good barbeque bacon burger and the decadent Seasonal Pasta (the gnocchi smacks!). Be sure to check out the monthly rotating specials to get a real understanding of the team’s creativity in the kitchen, like November’s Crybaby Burger. It’s a French onion dip burger, braised with red wine, topped with gruyere, then stacked with two Oklahoma style smash patties. There’s only one way to find out how this tastes, and you have November to make it happen. There's more to come from Copper Kings later this month, like a full bar and cocktail program led by Marcus Diaz. Rather than chasing overthe-top trends, Diaz is delivering a menu with the 54

same thoughtfulness as the kitchen. He's focusing on the classics and elevating the staples you know and love with high quality, house-made bitters, syrups, and liqueurs. Be sure to save plenty of room for dessert. Brittany Howlett leads the bakery program, turning out the restaurant’s breads and buns alongside rotating seasonal treats. Guaranteed, you'll always find something new here to satisfy your sweet tooth! With the holidays approaching, the team is also taking orders for Thanksgiving and Christmas baked goods — cakes, breads, quiches, you name it. It’s a welcome excuse to let a pro handle dessert this year. Check out their website for more details, and give them a call ASAP to place your orders.

Copper Kings 326 N. Horne St. (760) 539-7054 copperkingsburgers.com @copperkingsburgers

E AT | DRI NK | S O C I AL I ZE THANKS FOR THE SUPPORT OCEANSIDE D I N E I N * TA K E O U T D O O R D A S H * U B E R E AT S W I N E TA S T I N G * W I N E W E D * W I N E C L U B W I N E PA I R I N G D I N N E R S C O C K T A I L S & C O M E D Y T U E S D AY S

N E W S I G N AT U R E C O C K TA I L S

1706 S. Coast Hwy. | Oceanside, CA 92054 (760)453-2500 | theprivateercoalfirepizza.com

Authentic Mexican Food with Local Roots Family Owned

Established 1973

1714 S Coast Hwy Oceanside, CA 92054

(760) 722-6323 For more inforamation visit us at ANITASMEXICANFOODRESTAURANT.COM

Bar & Restaurant Guide

BAR AND GRILLS COCOCABANA 408 Pier View Way (760) 688-0195

THE OSIDER NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

THE DRAFT RESTAURANT & SPORTS BAR 4225 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 631-4700

BAKERIES/DONUTS

FAIRWAYS KITCHEN & BAR 5201 Village Drive (760) 967-8400

85°C BAKERY CAFE 3762 Mission Ave, Unit 102 (442) 266-8077 101 BAGELS & SUBS 323 North Coast Hwy. (760) 421-6555 CRUMBL - OCEANSIDE 459 College Blvd (760) 330-5969 DIRTY DOUGH 1850 Rancho Del Oro, Ste 160 (442) 266-8283 HILL STREET DONUT HOUSE 1926 South Coast Hwy. (760) 439-7741 I LOVE BAGELS 3910 Vista Way, Ste 101 (760) 945-3838 LA PERLA TAPATIA 1910 Mission Ave. (760) 721-8486 LE RENDEZ-VOUS FRENCH BAKERY 4225 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 414-9109 MISSION DONUT HOUSE 1502 Mission Ave. (760) 757-2979 MR. DONUTS 1950 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 967-6508 O'SIDE BAKERY 3815 Mission Ave. Suite 101 (760) 305-9500 PARLOR DOUGHNUTS 331 N Cleveland St. (760) 231-5150 POPUP BAGELS 510 Vista Way (855) 747-6347 SAM’S DONUT SHOP 3504 College Blvd. Suite A (760) 945-0416 SK’S DONUTS 1129 South Coast Hwy. (760) 722-0455 SAN LUIS REY BAKERY & RESTAURANT 490 North El Camino Real (760) 433-7242 STRAWBERRY SHACK 211 N Tremont St (760) 458-0734

PRIMO FOODS 606 Morse Street (760) 439-8711

BELCHING BEAVER BREWERY 1334 Rocky Point Drive (760) 599-5832

BREAKFAST DINERS AND CAFÉS

BOOZE BROTHERS BREWERY 606 Mission Ave. (760) 385-3973

101 CAFÉ 631 South Coast Hwy. (760) 722-5220 BEACHBREAK CAFÉ 1802 South Coast Hwy. (760) 439-6355 beachbreakcafe.net

FAT JOE’S O’SIDE 424 S Coast Hwy. (760) 722-5637

THE BROKEN YOLK CAFE 2434 Vista Way (760) 967-9655

FINNEY'S CRAFTHOUSE (619) 825-1400 212 North Tremont St

THE BREAKFAST MUG 1401 South El Camino Real (760) 231-1010

FRANKIE'S 406 Pier View Way (442) 266-2270

BUCCANEER CAFÉ 1508 South Pacific Street (760) 966-1804

JUNKYARD SPORTS BAR & GRILL 3613 Ocean Ranch Blvd. (760) 231-6600

COME ON OVER CAFÉ 2405 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 201-3393

LITTLE FAWN 131 S Coast Hwy (442) 266-2781

DON’S COUNTRY KITCHEN 1938 South Coast Hwy (760) 722-7337

MISSION AVE. BAR & GRILL 711 Mission Ave. (760) 637–2222

ELENA'S CAFE FRENCH CREPES 511 Pier View Way (240) 644-3205

OSIDE SPORTSBAR & GRILL 113 South Coast Hwy (760) 722-5968

GRANDMA’S RESTAURANT 3613 Ocean Ranch Blvd (760) 757-8777

PCH SPORTS BAR & GRILL 1835 South Coast Hwy (760) 721-3955

HARBOR HOUSE CAFÉ 714 North Coast Hwy (760) 722-2254

RED ROOSTER 1985 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 754-8383

HIGH/LOW 201 North Myers Street (760) 512-3329

ROOKIE’S SPORTS GRILL 2216 South El Camino Real (760) 757-1123

KAHLO CAFE 2035 Mission Ave (619) 519-2239

SOUND BY THE SEA 325 S Coast Hwy (760) 547-5441 TONY’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL 274 South Harbor Drive (760) 433-8466 THE LOBBY TIKI BAR & GRILL 408 Pier View Way (760) 280-7902 BBQ ENZO'S BBQ & ALEHOUSE 4111 Oceanside Boulevard (760) 643-9602

KOAKAI BREWING CO. 559 Greenbrier Dr. POUR HOUSE 1903 South Coast Hwy. (760) 730-5944 SOUTH O BREWING COMPANY 1575 South Coast Hwy. (442) 266-8244 STONE COMPANY STORE 310 North Tremont Street (760) 529-0002 TAP THAT 3207 Roymar Road Suite E (760) 433-4827 TIPPING PINT BREWING 3229 Roymar Road (760) 586-2898 BURGERS ANGELO’S BURGERS 621 North Coast Hwy. (760) 757-5161

COPPER KINGS 326 N. Horne St. (760) 539-7054

START FRESH CAFÉ 1034 South Coast Hwy. (760) 439-7940

COSMOS BURGER 208 North Coast Highway (760) 607-7083

STRATFORD AT THE HARBOR 280 South Harbor Drive (760) 453-2073

EAT CRISPY BURGER 207 N Coast Hwy

ARTIFEX BREWING 940 S Freeman, Ste 102 (760) 231-8377 56

HILL STREET BREWING 2002 S Coast Hwy (442) 266-8227

PIPER 105 Mission Avenue (760) 512-3816

BREWERIES/TAP ROOMS

HILL STREET BREWING 2002 S Coast Hwy (442) 266-8227 hillstreetbrewing.com

GREEN CHEEK 601 S Coast Hwy (442) 266-8171

2035 South Coast Hwy. (760) 757-4064

TOASTED GASTROBRUNCH 339 North Cleveland Street (760) 836-0500

GUAHAN GRILL 515 Mission Ave (760) 806-4826

KILOWATT BREWING OCEANSIDE TAPROOM & PROVISIONS 406 Mission Ave. (760) 231-1997

MARY’S FAMILY RESTAURANT 307 North Coast Hwy. (760) 722-3052

SWAMI’S CAFÉ 202 North Coast Hwy. (760) 966-1203

FELIX'S BBQ WITH SOUL 223 N Coast Hwy (760) 439-7072

CRAFT COAST BREWING 275 Mission Ave. (760) 231-1432

FRIED UP CO. 4770 Oceanside Blvd THE HABIT BURGER GRILL 2267 South El Camino Real (760) 433-3390 1870 Rancho Del Oro Road (760) 400-7878 PAUL’S PLACE 3671 Mission Ave. (760) 721-0124 PIT STOP DINER 3825 Mission Ave. (760) 901-4299

TANNER’S PRIME BURGERS 510 Vista Way CHICKEN SHOP ANGRY CHICKZ 612 Mission Ave (442) 266-2167 DAVE'S HOT CHICKEN 4201 Oceanside Blvd Ste A (442) 291-1830 MAIN CHICK HOT CHICKEN 1006 Mission Ave, Ste D (442) 273-8060 ROOSTR YARD 1810 Rancho Del Oro Rd (760) 696-3178 CHINESE 24 SUNS 3375 Mission Ave. (760) 433-5086 BLADE SHANGHAI 405 Seagaze Drive (760) 453-2299 CHIN’S SZECHWAN CUISINE 4140 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 631-4808 CHINA FUSION 4225 Oceanside Blvd (760) 726-8888 2530 Vista Way, Ste J (760) 283-8888 GREAT WOK OF CHINA 4635 Frazee Road (760) 439-8939 CHEF'S WOK & DUMPLINGS 3460 Marron Rd. #107 (442) 266-8416 QUIK WOK 2184 Vista Way (760) 439-2228 COFFEE/TEA/JUICE ACAI REPUBLIC OCEANSIDE 125 S Coast Hwy ALOHANA ACAI & COFFEE 1810 Rancho Del Oro Rd, Ste 110 (760) 421-7175 BANANA DANG 115 South Coast Hwy. (760) 846-0162 BETTER BUZZ 1050 South Coast Hwy (442) 325-9129

BROWN CUP 401 North Coast Hwy. (760) 231-7968 CAMP COFFEE COMPANY 101 N Cleveland Street (442) 266-2504 CAPTAIN’S GROUNDS COFFEE 1832 South Coast Hwy. (760) 522-4271 COATL COFFEE 105 Copperwood Way Ste. B (833) 332-6285 COMMUNAL 602 South Tremont St. (619) 376-5710 THE CUP 206 Wisconsin Ave. (760) 231-9817 EVERBOWL 2535 Vista Way (760) 754-1572 JB JUICE & COFFEE 4635 Frazee Road (760) 529-0807 JITTERS COFFEE PUB 510 North Coast Hwy. (760) 967-7886 NAUTICAL BEAN COFFEE CO. 240 Harbor Drive South (760) 722-4851 O'SIDE STRAND CAFE 206 The Strand S OG JUICE CO. 403 Wisconsin Ave Suite #H (442) 427-1447

BEACH HUT DELI 280 Mission Ave. (760) 529-9767 BOARD & BREW 2213 S El Camino Real (760) 688-9217 THE CHEESESTEAK GRILL 1771 South Oceanside Blvd. (760) 529-0077 CREAM OF THE CROP 2009 South Coast Hwy. (760) 433-2757 creamofthecropnatural.com HARBOR PELICAN 1380 North Pacific Street (760) 722-5853 I LOVE BAGELS CAFE 3910 Vista Way (760) 945-3838 JERSEY MIKE'S 302 Mission Ave (760) 435-0783 125 Old Grove Rd (760) 231-1602 SANDS COFFEE ROASTERS 2605 Oceanside Blvd #H (303) 332-8856 SUBMARINA 3809 Plaza Drive (760) 945-7840

PANNIKIN COFFEE & TEA 322 N Cleveland St PIER VIEW COFFEE COMPANY 300 Pier View Way (760) 966-1150

Z-MARKET 3200 Mission Ave. (760) 967-2184

PLANTOLOGY CAFE 913 South Coast Hwy. (760) 805-3258

FILIPINO

TIERRA MIA COFFEE 1420 Mission Ave (619) 694-5220 TZONE 318 Pier View Way (760) 299-5678 REVOLUTION ROASTERS 1836 South Coast Hwy. (760) 529-9736 RAD JUICE BAR 318 N Cleveland St Ste 101 (760) 450-4607

BLACK ROCK COFFEE BAR 1918 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 722-7133

SIDE STREET BOWLS & SMOOTHIES 631 S Cleveland St

BOUND COFFEE COMPANY 2110 S Coast Hwy Suite C (442) 266-2259

101 BAGELS & SUBS 323 North Coast Hwy. (760) 421-6555

CALI RAY'S SOURDOUGH 1870 Rancho Del Oro Road (760) 696-3059

1004 Mission Avenue (442) 372-7232

BLUE BOWL SUPERFOODS 1940 S Freeman St, Ste 103 (657) 281-9089

DELI/SANDWICHES

SODA POPN 222 N Coast Hwy (760) 994-3499 SUCCULENT CAFE 306 N Tremont St (760) 519-7163

MISSION ASIAN MARKET 3320 Mission Ave. (760) 722-8024 FOOD COURTS CRACKHEADS OCEANSIDE 502 South Coast Hwy GASTROPUB BIER GARDEN 201 N Cleveland Street (442) 266-8035 FLYING PIG PUB & KITCHEN 509 Mission Ave. (760) 453-2940 LOCAL TAP HOUSE 308 South Coast Hwy. (760) 547-1469 HAWAIIAN DALU HAWAIIAN BBQ 125 Old Grove Rd. (442) 266-8100

L&L HAWAIIAN BARBECUE 510 Oceanside Blvd. Ste 102 (760) 231-1142 4225 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 726-0888 MAUI HAWAIIAN BBQ 2455 Vista Way (760) 722-8383 OHANA HAWAIIAN BBQ 459 College Blvd. (760) 630-6800 PB POKE HOUSE OCEANSIDE 216 N Coast Hwy (442) 266-8143 POKEPORT OCEANSIDE 4635 Frazee Rd (760) 231-5200 ICE CREAM/FROZEN YOGURT 1022 CAFE & GELATERIA 602 Mission Ave (760) 231-1734 DISFRUTA 610 N Redondo Drive (760) 583-5681 FRUGOS YOGURT 3509 Cannon Road (760) 732-1000 FUGU TAIYAKI 410 Mission Ave. (760) 696-3366 GOLDEN SPOON 4121 Oceanside Blvd (760) 295-0564 HANDEL'S HOMEMADE ICE CREAM 228 North Coast Hwy. (442) 266-8552 LA MICHOACANA PLUS 1060 Mission Ave. (760) 696-3602 LITTLE FOX CUPS + CONES 1940s S Freeman St Suite 100 (442) 266-8086 MENCHIE'S FROZEN YOGURT 2525C Vista Way (760) 730-5728 NANA AND POP’S SWEET SHOP 280 Harbor Drive (760) 722-1723 OCEAN RAINBOW 3784 Mission Ave. (760) 435-0750 RED CUP FROZEN YOGURT 301 Mission Ave. (760) 637-2189 RICOS ANTOJITOS 3753 Mission Ave. (760) 231-7793 STRAWBERRY SHACK 211 N Tremont St INDIAN TANDOORI CORNER 158 Roymar Rd (442)266-8433

Bar & Restaurant Guide THE OSIDER NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

TANDOORI GUYS 127 South Coast Hwy (760) 231-8093 TICCA TIKKA 600 Mission Ave (442) 266-8488 TIKKA MASALA HUT 3780 Mission Ave Suite 2 (442) 888-0535 TURMERIC HUT 125 Old Grove Rd. Suite 4 (760) 470-3415 INDONESIAN DIJA MARA 232 S. Coast Hwy. (760) 231-5376 ITALIAN/PIZZA ALLMINE 119 South Coast Hwy. (760) 966-6888 AMALFI CUCINA ITALIANA 221 North Cleveland Street (760) 755-7040 BEST PIZZA & BREW OCEANSIDE 1639 S Coast Hwy. (760) 435-1000 BLADE 1936 401 Seagaze Drive (760) 231-1456 BROOKLYN BOYZ PIZZA 2183 Vista Way Suite B (760) 757-4992 CORNER PIZZA 1940 S. Freeman St. (760) 231-9002 CUSIMANO’S PIZZERIA 3809 Plaza Drive (760) 414-1200 DOMINIC’S AT THE HARBOR RESTAURANT & PIZZERIA 268 Harbor Drive South (760) 754-1881 GIANNI’S PIZZA 3910 West Vista Way (760) 724-2670 GRAZIANO'S PIZZARIA 101 Old Grove Road (760) 231-5990 KILLER PIZZA FROM MARS 3772 Mission Ave. (760) 722-6060 MANGIA E BEVI 3613 Ocean Ranch Blvd. (760) 231-1225

ODIE’S PIZZA 121 N. Cleveland (760) 579-2382

ROBATA X SUSHI & IZAKAYA 3915 Mission Ave, Ste 12 (442) 266-8477

GEORGIE'S MEDITERRANEAN 1950 Oceanside Blvd, Unit R (442) 266-8099

PIZZA GUYS 1830 Rancho Del Oro (760) 795-9888

SUNSHINE KITCHEN 1006 Mission Ave. (760) 547-5554

MAAN’S MEDITERRANEAN GRILL 4259 Oceanside Blvd. Ste.107 (760) 726-2249

THE PRIVATEER COAL FIRE PIZZA 1706 Pacific Coast Hwy (760) 453-2500 theprivateercoalfirepizza.com

ROSEWOOD KITCHEN 608 Mission Ave. (760) 231-5886

THE ORIGINAL KEBAB 224 North Coast Hwy (760) 231-7723

SUSHI4REEL 4750 Oceanside Blvd. Suite A-20 (760) 659-6784

THE GREAT GREEK 1830 Rancho Del Oro Rd, Ste 150 (858) 883-1553

TERI CAFÉ 2216 South El Camino Real (760) 722-8399

MEXICAN

ROMA’S PIZZA & GRILL 617 North Redondo Drive (760) 757-2003 ROUND TABLE PIZZA 3440 Marron Road (760) 434-5977

TERI CAFÉ II 3809 Plaza Drive (760) 945-8888

TONY PEPPERONI PIZZERIA 805 College Blvd. (760) 726-6400

TEN GU RAMEN 2183 Vista Way B-2 (760) 696-3266

TWO BROTHERS FROM ITALY 4760 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 758-3638

THE POKE CAFÉ 3910 Vista Way (760) 458-3986

UPPER CRUST PIZZA 4196 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 630-9330

UMI JAPANESE GRILL & CAFÉ 401 Mission Ave. (760) 439-3566

TRINACRIA PIZZA 608 North Coast Hwy (442) 266-8067

WARAII SUSHI 4225 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 630-3770

ZIGZAG PIZZA 333 North Myers Street (760) 433-1555

WICKED POKE 2401 Vista Way (760) 529-0774

JAMAICAN ONE LOVE ISLAND CUISINE 4225 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 685-4618

ANITA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT & CANTINA 2250 South El Camino Real (760) 757-7745 1714 South Coast Hwy. (760) 722-6323 anitasoceanside101.com CAFÉ ROSARITA 1816 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 722-6224 COLIMA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 404 Pier View Way (760) 439-4045 DE KOTIJA’S TACO SHOP 3504 College Blvd (760) 758-0399 DIEGO’S MEXICAN FOOD 1030 South Coast Hwy. (760) 721-1985 EL MUNDO DE MARISCOS 3110 San Luis Rey Road (760) 754-8922

JAPANESE/SUSHI/POKE

WRENCH & RODENT SEABASSTROPUB 1815 South Coast Hwy. (760) 271-0531

CAFÉ DE THAI & SUSHI 4196 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 945-5533

WU LAN RAMEN TAP HOUSE 4645 Frazee Road Suite F (760) 453-7526

GO GO JAPAN SUSHI 4121 Oceanside Blvd (760) 630-1288

YUKIYA SUSHI 2415 Vista Way (760) 439-3283

HARNEY SUSHI 301 Mission Ave (760) 967-1820

KOREAN

FRIDA'S TAQUERIA 2011 Mission Ave (760) 696-3104

GAJA KOREAN BBQ 2693 Vista Way (760) 231-1195

GOURMET TAMALES 3616 Ocean Ranch Blvd. (760) 439-3343

KM BBQ 2216 S El Camino Real (760) 433-1888

JOHNNY MANANA’S 308 Mission Ave (760) 721-9999

SONU BBQ 3744 Mission Ave. (760) 696-3686

JORGE'S MEXICATESSEN 1129 South Coast Hwy. (760) 696-3072

ZZANG HOT DOG & CHICKEN 409 Mission Ave (760) 231-5335

KING BURRITO 3490 Marron Road (760) 720-9747

MEDITERRANEAN

LA CORRIENTE 510 Vista Way (760) 231-9730

KAMPAI SUSHI 1906 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 757-1484 KYOTO'S JAPANESE MARKET 559 Greenbrier Drive (760) 757-5456 LOVE BOAT SUSHI 125 Old Grove Road (760) 721-3737 PB POKE HOUSE 216 North Coast Hwy (442) 266-8143 POKI POKI 3480 Marron Road (760) 295-9086

DEMASSI'S MEDITERRANEAN BUFFET 2655 Vista Way (713) 789-4444

POKI POKI #2 4140 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 295-4924 58

EVAGA LOUNGE 1906 Oceanside Blvd 760) 547-5624 FIESTA MEXICANA 3784 Mission Ave. (760) 757-9872

LA FUENTE DE MARISCOS 2936 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 529-0150

LA PERLA TAPATIA 625 North Redondo Drive (760) 722-2877 1910 Mission Ave (760) 721-8486 LOS TACOS 2183 Vista Way (760) 757-8226 MARIETA’S 485 Vandegrift Blvd. (760) 967-1769 MARISCOS HUALTUCO 3110 San Luis Rey Rd. (760) 754-8922 MAR & FUEGO 208 South Coast Hwy (760) 231-6278 MI ASADOR MEXICAN AND SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 4750 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 806-6684 PEDRO’S TACOS 656 Benet Road (760) 722-7221 ROBERTO’S TACO SHOP #13 518 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 757-2377 SAN LUIS REY BAKERY & RESTAURANT 490 North El Camino Real (760) 433-7242 SANCHO'S TACOS 400 Mission Ave. (760) 231-8228 SEÑOR GRUBBYS 311 N. Tremont St. (760) 721-6040 eatgrubbys.com THE TACO STAND 1722 S. Coast Hwy (760) 385-6222 TACOS DON PACO 1850 Rancho Del Oro Rd. (760) 696-3188 TONY’S FRESH MEXICAN FOOD 2983 Via Las Rosas (760) 433-5004 VALERIE’S TACO SHOP 3617 Ocean Ranch Blvd. (760) 712-1296 1006 Mission Ave. (760) 231-1824 125 Old Grove Rd, Ste. 8 (760) 231-5047 VALERIES TACO STAND 2213 S El Camino Real (760) 231-5458 VALLE 222 North Pacific St. (760) 512-3328

NEPALESE

THAI

HIMALAYAN BISTRO 4225 Oceanside Blvd. Ste. W (760) 631-1800

CAFÉ DE THAI & SUSHI 4196 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 945-5533

PERUVIAN

OCEAN THAI 2455 Vista Way (760) 722-9779

AL TOQUE PERUVIAN KITCHEN 1906 Oceanside Blvd Ste. EF (760) 625-3007 CASERA LATIN KITCHEN & BAKERY 4225 Oceanside Blvd. Ste. D (442) 222-1332 LATIN CHEF PERUVIAN CUISINE 4259 Oceanside Blvd, Ste 105 (760)201-8997

3846 Mission Ave #A3 (760) 967-9901 RIM TALAY 508 Mission Ave (760) 435-2007

PHO HA 3905 Mission Ave (760) 754-5267 PHO OCEAN GARDEN 4111 Oceanside Blvd (760) 216-6356 PHO HOUSE 3753 Mission Ave. (760) 754-9999 PHO OCEANSIDE 518 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 754-2828 YUMMY PHO 4225 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 631-1800

SEAFOOD

SABAI SABAI THAI KITCHEN 1906 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 529-5597

333 PACIFIC 333 North Pacific Street (760) 433-3333

SAVORY THAI 3829 Plaza Drive (760) 806-9606

BEACH HOUSE WINERY 1534 Sleeping Indian Road (760) 732-3236

COCINA DEL MAR 650 Douglas St, Ste 122 (760) 925-3060

THAI GARDEN 4750 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 940-1009

BUENO WINE & GOODS 602 S Tremont St, Unit 103 (480) 334-4116

CRAB PUB 3766 Mission Ave Suite 111 (760) 696-3577

CHIIM 3753 Mission Ave, Ste 106 (858) 397-7570

FOUR TUNAS FISH & BAR 41 Douglas Dr., STE 100 (760) 696-3096

THAI THAI 4121 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 295-5445

COOMBER CRAFT WINES 611 Mission Ave. (760) 231-8022 coomberwines.com

HARBOR FISH & CHIPS 276 Harbor Drive South (760) 722-4977

THAI TABLE 1910 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 721-4850

JOE’S CRAB SHACK 314 Harbor Drive (760) 722-1345

VEGAN

LIGHTHOUSE OYSTER BAR & GRILL 262 Harbor Drive South (760) 433-1900 lighthouseoceanside.com OCEANSIDE BROILER 1325 North Harbor Drive (760) 722-3474 OCEANSIDE FISH SHOP 236 S Coast Hwy (760) 512-0061

ERIS FOOD CO 302 Wisconsin Ave. (760) 231-9986 JITTERS COFFEE PUB 510 North Coast Hwy. (760) 967-7886 THE PLOT

1733 South Coast Hwy. (442) 266-820 theplotrestaurant.com VIETNAMESE

SHOOTS FISH & BEER 602 South Tremont St. (760) 696-3524

MR. PHO 4750 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 940-1306

TIN FISH OCEANSIDE 302 North The Strand (760) 966-0007

PHO BOWL & GRILL 1006 Mission Ave. Ste. C (760) 453-2999

STEAKHOUSES 333 PACIFIC 333 North Pacific Street (760) 433-3333 HUNTER STEAK HOUSE 1221 Vista Way (760) 433-2633

WINE BARS/WINERIES

GOLDEN COAST MEAD 4093 Oceanside Blvd Ste G. (760) 630-4468 HANGAR 76 3229 Roymar Rd. MERENDA 1931 S Coast Hwy #102 (760) 696-3309 THE PRIVATEER MARKETPLACE & WINE BAR 1704 South Coast Hwy. (760) 453-2254 privateer-marketplace.com

ZACH CORDNER

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Fast Forward to Yesterday THE OSIDER NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026

OCEANSIDE HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Aerial of the San Luis Rey Valley, 1940s. ZACH CORDNER

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