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Santa Barbara’s Corner Tap Bar & Eatery is back in business, with a new name, chef and management team.
The restaurant closed in April and reopened about a week ago with new chef Nathan Simandle and wife Paige Simandle serving as general manager.
The new Corner Tap, at 1905 Cliff Drive, has launched also with a freshly remodeled décor.
Chef Simandle “has masterfully curated a variety of exceptional, gourmet-style comfort foods — ranging from light greens to boldly flavorful pizzas and some of the best appetizers around, including their unique wagyu Smashburger Tacos, a mouthwateringly savory, massively flavorful, delectably gratifying blend of meat, cheese, subtle spice and crunch,” according to a news release.
The restaurant plans to specialize in Detroit-style pan pizzas.
“A true pizza enthusiast’s dream, Detroit-style pizza layers its pie crust with creamy cheese and toppings below the sauce, which creates a thick and fluffy focaccia-like foundation,” the news release states.
“Then, layered atop that pile of tasty toppings is Wisconsin brick cheese, which caramelizes over the edges of the finished pie during baking to create a distinctly wonderful, more-than-just-a-pizza taste.”
“Our Notorious P.I.E. with hot honey drizzle over burrata, pepperoni and chilis is a true flavor bomb,” Nathan Simandle said in a news release. “I’m truly excited to be back in town and bring this fan favorite to Santa Barbara.”
Corner Tap still will offer a full spectrum of tap beers and a host of classic and specialty crafted signature cocktails, such as the unique Prickly Pear Paloma and Spicy Blackberry
Mint Margarita.
Corner Tap also will feature a new entertainment program, with live music performances, sports viewing events, comedy, and tasting events.
The restaurant is part of the Santa Barbara Restaurant Collective, which is owned by Chris Chiarappa. His properties include Mesa Burger, the Lighthouse Coffee chain and Sweetie’s, and he’s a partner in Augie’s and Local.
Paskin Group Promotion
Real estate investment and management company The Paskin Group has promoted Joe Gunner to senior investment associate.
“Joe’s exceptional skills and dedication to TPG over the past three years have earned him this well-deserved promotion,” according to a news release. “In his new role, Joe will assist in valuing potential acquisitions, manage client portfolios and provide valuable insights to drive growth.”
David Boire, president of The Paskin Group, expressed confidence in Joe’s abilities.
“We are excited to promote Joe to senior investment associate,” he said in a statement. “He has consistently showcased a strong work ethic, analytical prowess and a deep understanding of our clients’ investment needs. We have no doubt he will excel and continue to contribute significantly to our company’s success.”
Lighthouse Coffee Coming to Goleta
Lighthouse Coffee plans to add another restaurant in the Calle Real Center in Goleta later this year.
The shop will take over a portion of the former Outback building.
Butler Joins The Hotel Californian
Eccentric restaurateur Warren Butler has landed in a new restaurant position, according to a post on his Instagram page.
“As one door closes another opens,” he wrote. “As Chase Restaurant and Lounge has been sold and the new owners are taking over, I am moving on to The Hotel Californian as their director of venues — looking forward to Sunset Sessions up at rooftop pool,” Butler posted.
Butler is a veteran owner and manager of businesses around town.
RAD Power Bikes Opens
The South Coast Chamber of Commerce welcomed RAD Power Bikes at a ribbon-cutting ceremony Wednesday.
RAD will hold a formal grand opening from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, at 132 E. Montecito St.
The opening will feature DJs and a contest where someone has a chance to win a RadRunner2.