Issuu

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

THE

PHOTO ISSUE

PAGE 32

Coastal Exposures THE OSIDER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

Oceanside is always the gold at the end of the rainbow. Photo by Kailoa Powers

CONTENTS JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 VOLUME 13 / ISSUE 1

D E P A R T M E N T S 6 SET IN STONE • S upport Oside & shop local this new year 10 OCEANSIDE’S FINEST • KOCT 12 GREEN O • A Green Winter 16 ARTS & CULTURE • Arts & Events in Oceanside 18 ON BASE • Camp Pendleton’s Drone Innovation Hub 24 LOCAL FLAVOR • A l Pastor Torta By Señor Grubby’s 30 ARTS • Taylor Gallegos 38 COMMUNITY • Flowstate Run Club 40 COMMUNITY • O ceanside Boardriders Club Southside Shootout 46 VISIT O • Swell Plates Series 2026 48 LOCAL BUSINESS • Thrive Coastal Therapy

R E S T A U R A N T

R E V I E W

50 VALLEY • Robata-X Sushi & Izakaya 52 VALLEY • Hangar 76 54 COASTAL • Hill Street Brewing Co. 56 RESTAURANT AND BAR GUIDE The Osider guide to all the best bars and eateries in town 62 FAST FORWARD TO YESTERDAY Wisconsin Market, Circa 1978

F E A T U R E S 26 HISTORICAL OCEANSIDE Ten things you didn’t know about Oceanside’s theaters 32 THE PHOTO ISSUE Take a look at some of our favorite photos of 2025, all captured in Oceanside

Come warm your soul with our world famous coffee cake! beachbreakcafe.net @beachbreakcafe 1802 South Coast Hwy • 760-439-6355

SET IN STONE A word from the publisher

TRAVIS GRIFFITH

New year and new goals have always seemed to be the modus operandi when it comes to most peoples’ New Year resolutions. Whether it be health, diet, or new beginnings, we tend to start strong with full intentions of making oneself a better version than we were the year before. That’s all fine and commendable, but what about a resolution with a much broader positive effect on our whole community? We here at The Osider are always striving to make the city a better place for all. So for us, it starts with our commitment to

supporting small local businesses. We will continue to shine a light on the people and places that call Oside home and whose stories are the backbone of our magazine. You can do your part by making the commitment to support these businesses by choosing to shop, eat, and frequent all these great places. Choose the small local coffee shop over the big chains. Same goes for a good lunch or after work happy hour. The more we support local, the stronger we are as a city. Gentrification is real, but it 6

ultimately comes down to us as consumers and where we choose to spend our hard-earned dollars. That’s the one power no major corporation can take away. So, let’s make 2026 the year of supporting each and every small local business in town. We promise to do our part, as well. Happy New Year, Oceanside!

Jamey Stone

W O N

! N E

HERE FOR GOOD. Location: 2002 S Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054

.75 WING WEDNESDAY | HAPPY HOUR 7 DAYS A WEEK 3-5:30PM BOTTOMLESS MIMOSA BRUNCH | CATERING FOR ALL EVENTS AVAILABLE

www.HillStreetBrewing.com

Buy, Sell & Thrive Oceanside! Celebrating 39 years in business

DIAMOND CENTER ENGAGEMENT RING STARTING AT $599

CONTENTS JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 VOLUME 13 / ISSUE 1

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)

1.00 Carat Lab $999 *Free Jewlery cleaning with this ad!

ADVERTISING Nolan Woodrell/Advertising Director nolanwoodrell999@gmail.com Kathleen Larson/Advertising Sales bepollinated@gmail.com

TRUST US TO BUY YOUR GOLD

ADMINISTRATION Alicia Stone CONTRIBUTORS Katia Brunson, Daniel Carey, Alondra Figueroa, Amy Forsythe, Travis Griffith, Ivan Kaplow, Michelle Kaplow, Katie LaLicata, Jesse Lopez, Vladimir Medvinsky, Kailoa Powers, Kristi Hawthorne, Elizabeth Schwartze, Mike Yoshida 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 In our previous issue, we misspelled the name of Ulalia Tuitasi of Ula Love. We apologize for the mistake.

ESTATE JEWLERY BUYER 322 South Coast Highway Oceanside Ca 92054 760-722-2200

The Osider Magazine 3124 San Luis Rey Road Oceanside, CA 92058 On the Cover: Professional Skateboarder Ace Pelka grinds the top of the cheese grater banks on Pacific Street. Photo by Zach Cordner

Oceanside's Finest

KOCT – The Voice of North County WORDS: AMY FORSYTHE PHOTOS: AMY FORSYTHE & ZACH CORDNER

For more than four decades, KOCT has been the voice and visual record of Oceanside. Founded in 1984 as a community television station, KOCT - known affectionately as “The Voice of North County” - has chronicled the region’s growth, triumphs, and challenges through the lens of civic pride and public service. From covering Oceanside City Council meetings to spotlighting local heroes, nonprofits, and small businesses, KOCT has remained a trusted, hyperlocal source of news and storytelling that connects the people of Oceanside like no other outlet. What began as a small public-access experiment has evolved into a full-service, multiplatform media hub. KOCT now produces awardwinning content across television, digital streaming, and social media - giving residents real-time access to the issues that shape their daily lives. Across its two channels, Cox Channel 18 (Community) and Cox Channel 19 (Government), feature everything from educational programming and live government coverage to art showcases, military stories, and youth features. “Our awards are really a reflection of the creativity and commitment of the people who’ve come through these doors,” said Carly Starr Brullo-Niles, KOCT’s Executive Producer. “From interns who’ve gone on to national newsrooms to local filmmakers who started behind a camera at KOCT, the talent nurtured here continues to make an impact far beyond Oceanside. We’re proud to be a home where creative storytelling and community service go hand-in-hand.” A Training Ground for Top Talent Over the years, KOCT’s impact has extended far beyond the television screen. The station has trained and mentored hundreds of students and volunteers through its internship and production programs, many of whom have gone on to successful careers in journalism, television, and film.

Notable alumni include broadcast journalists like Crystal Cruz and Robert Boyd who went on to land top TV anchor and reporter positions after working at KOCT in the early 2000s. Other notables like Elaine Swann appeared frequently on KOCT as she was building her brand as the leading and most nationally recognized lifestyle and etiquette expert. Elaine has traveled the country sharing her advice with professional organizations, universities, corporations and individuals who are looking to level up and perform at their peak. Other recognizable faces include J. Stryker (John Stryker) Meyer, a Special Operations Vietnam Veteran and former newspaper reporter/ c olu m nist, w h o h o sted KO CT ’s J o u rnalist Roundtable and brought professional journalism experience to KOCT programming. Each began honing their on-camera broadcasting skills in KOCT’s studio before bringing their talents to larger stages which is proof of KOCT’s enduring role as a launchpad for local talent. Innovation and Industry Awards The station has earned numerous regional awards for excellence in communit y broadcasting, public affairs, and government transparency. Its programs such as Oceanside Spectrum and North County Roundtable have received accolades for providing an open forum where local leaders, military veterans, educators, and entrepreneurs can share their stories. More than anything, KOCT’s service to Oceanside lies in its ability to bring people together. During natural disasters, civic milestones, or community celebrations, KOCT has been there to document and disseminate information when it matters most. As media consumption shifts online, KOCT continues to innovate with livestreaming, on-demand programming, and an active social media presence to ensure the station is providing Oceanside residents news and information they won’t get anywhere else. 11

As a nonprofit community media hub, KOCT relies on local support to sustain its mission to cover local politics, sports, arts and entertainment. How Local Businesses Can Get Involved 1. Become a Sponsor or Underwriter – Businesses can sponsor a specific KOCT program or underwrite general operations. Sponsorship includes on-air acknowledgments and digital exposure, offering both marketing value and community goodwill. 2. D onate or Join as a Member – KOCT is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Individual and corporate donations help maintain equipment, fund internships, and keep public programming accessible to all. 3. B e a Guest on a Program – Entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, and creative professionals are encouraged to appear on shows like Oceanside Spectrum or North County Roundtable. 4. C ollaborate on Content – KOCT welcomes partnerships for public service announcements (PSAs), community event coverage, and educational programming. 5. Volunteer or Mentor – Local professionals in communications, marketing, and media can give back by mentoring KOCT interns or volunteering at special events and community productions. As Oceanside continues to grow, KOCT remains a steady beacon of transparency, creativity, and community storytelling. Whether you tune in on cable, online, or at a live taping, KOCT is more than just a station—it’s a reflection of the heart and voice of Oceanside itself. To learn more or get involved, visit koct.org or contact the KOCT studio at (760) 722-4433.

GreenO

THE OSIDER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

A Green Winter As winter settles in Oceanside, it's more important than ever to sort your organic waste properly

Cooler temperatures slow down the natural decomposition process, so keeping food scraps, yard trimmings, and other compostables separate from landfill waste helps maintain efficient composting and reduces harmful greenhouse gas emissions. By placing your organics in the green bin, you’re helping create nutrient-rich compost that supports local agriculture and gardens, even during the colder months. Pro tip: Keep a small, sealed container in your kitchen to collect food scraps, and line it with newspaper or compostable bags to reduce mess and odor. Clear bags and compostable are acceptable but not encouraged. Also, chop larger items like branches or pumpkins to help them break down faster. Do your part to help keep Oceanside clean and green all year long!

The Marine Debris Reduction Ordinance Protects Oceanside’s Waterways The City of Oceanside’s Marine Debris Reduction Ordinance is now in full effect. The distribution of polystyrene foam products and single-use carry out bags are now prohibited throughout the City of Oceanside. This ordinance applies to all retail establishments and food service providers in Oceanside, requiring them to transition to sustainable alternatives.

a common contributor to litter, especially along beaches and waterways. Plastics, particularly polystyrene, are frequently found in our waterways and on our beaches. Polystyrene is especially problematic because it breaks into small, lightweight pieces that are easily carried by wind and water, making it difficult to contain. It poses a serious threat to wildlife and remains in the environment for a long time, contributing to the growing issue of marine pollution.

Why is it important? Much of the debris found in our oceans originates from land-based sources with single-use disposable items playing a significant role in the pollution problem. In coastal regions like ours here in Oceanside, food and beverage packaging are

To report a non-compliant business, contact Oceanside Customer Care at (760) 435-4500 or customercare@oceansideca.org

What Can You Do? • Educate yourself and your peers about the importance of reducing waste and the marine debris reduction ordinance. • Support businesses that prioritize sustainability and eco-friendly practices. • Get involved in local clean-up efforts and initiatives to keep our beaches pristine. • Utilize reusable alternatives to dishware, utensils, bags and take out containers over single-use plastic products.

Compost at the El Corazon Compost Facility All organic waste collected curbside in green bins goes to Oceanside’s El Corazon Compost Facility to be processed and composted. The compost is free to Oceanside residents, courtesy of the City of Oceanside and AgriService Inc. The El Corazon Compost Facility is located at 3210 Oceanside Blvd, Oceanside 92056. Bring a shovel and be prepared to self-haul. Call (760)439-9920 for more information.

Here are some tips to help make your visit an easy and positive experience. • Truck Loading Hours: Monday through Friday 7:30am-4:30pm and Saturday 8:00am-3:30pm • All loads must be covered • Please follow the 15 mph speed limit. This helps us increase safety and reduce dust By keeping your organics out of the landfill, you prevent the production and release of methane, a powerful greenhouse gas. Diverting organics to your green bin helps create a nutrient rich compost which is free to Oceanside residents. Compost improves soil quality, biodiversity, and moisture retention. Composting is simple and it can also be done at your home, apartment, office, or even classroom!

START THE YEAR WITH SOMETHING NEW Discover a refreshed dinner menu rooted in California cuisine, just steps away from Oceanside’s shoreline.

BOOK YOUR TABLE 101 Mission Ave, Oceanside, CA 92054 piperoceanside.com | @piperoceanside

Arts & Culture THE OSIDER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

Upcoming creative and cultural events happening in Downtown Oceanside Dear Tomorrow, Workshops Intro to Hand Tool Woodworking January 8 | 6pm | 216 S Tremont St Fundamentals of Drawing January 12 | 6pm | 216 S Tremont St Visit deartmrw.com for more workshops Swell Plates Tasting with 24 Suns and Francisco Eme January 13 | 6-7:30pm Oceanside Museum of Art Tickets at oma-online.org North San Diego County NAACP MLK Day of Service January 17 | 8am | MiraCosta College

New Years Artist Market January 17 | 12-5pm | Artist Alley Open Mic Night Musicians Showcase January 17 | 6:30pm Oceanside Alternative Medicine Dr. King Community Prayer Breakfast January 19 | 9am | El Corazon Senior Center Dead Moose - A World Premiere January 23-February 1 Sunshine Brooks Theater Tickets and Info at oceansidetheatre.org/dead-moose

Dear Tomorrow Workshops

Swell Plates tasting at OMA

Meet the Author: Olivia Chilcote January 24 | 10-11:30am Civic Center Library Community Room Exhibit Envoy, The Road I Call Home The Road I Call Home exhibit documents the stories of 32 people experiencing homeless– men, women, children, and the elderly–to build empathy and compassion for the unhoused community. The photographic portraits, from the lens of multi-award winning photographer and humanitarian Randy Bacon, reveal the beauty, dignity, and identity of each person. The exhibit opens on January 29 at the Civic Center Library and will be on view through March 13. View flyer for additional events and information.

Exhibition Opening of "A Wonderful World — Paper Art Sculptures by Joe Valentino" Exhibition Reception January 31 | 5-7pm | Studio ACE Resonance: Open Mic Night February 5 | 6:30-8:30pm 217 N Coast Highway

For more arts and culture happenings, check out oceansidearts.org 17

Oceanside International Film Festival February 21 | The Brooks Theatre February 25-28 | The Star Theatre San Diego - North County Lunar New Year Festival 2026 February 28 | 12-5pm | Oceanside Civic Center Library

On Base THE OSIDER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

Eye in the Sky: Camp Pendleton’s Drone Innovation Hub

U.S. Marine Lance Cpl. Benjamin Cartwright, an infantry Marine with Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion 5th Marine Regiment, launches the Instant Eye MK-2 Gen 3 unmanned aerial system during an exercise for Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory's Marine Air-Ground Task Force Integrated Experiment on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton on July 9, 2016. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Pfc. Rhita Daniel)

WORDS: AMY FORSYTHE

From the beaches at Del Mar to the hills of Las Flores, Camp Pendleton has quietly become one of the Marine Corps’ most important laboratories for drone innovation. What began as limited experimentation with early unmanned systems has grown into a sprawling ecosystem of units, ranges, and partners pushing the boundaries of what Marines can see, strike, and sustain from the air. This article looks at how Pendleton became a hub for unmanned aerial systems (UAS), the types of drones Marines are flying and testing there, where those systems have deployed, and where the Corps is headed next. Camp Pendleton has emerged as one of the Marine Corps’ premier hubs for unmanned aerial system (UAS) advancement—a proving ground where innovation, combat relevance, and real-world training converge. Although multiple organizations contribute to this effort, the base effectively functions as a “drone innovation unit,” integrating cutting-edge technology directly into the warfighter’s toolkit. The “Drone Innovation Unit” – How Pendleton Experiments Today There isn’t a single unit literally named the “Drone Innovation Unit” at Camp Pendleton. Instead, drone innovation is driven by a network of organizations that come together on Pendleton’s ranges: • I Marine Expeditionary Force (I MEF) and its infantry, artillery, logistics and aviation elements, who bring real operational problems and Marines who will actually fight with the technology. • Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory, which designs experiments, collects data and writes recommendations for new tactics, techniques and procedures (TTPs). • Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) and industry partners, who bring in cutting-edge commercial drones for testing under realistic conditions. • Specialized experiment and innovation teams within units like 1st Marine Division and 1st Marine Logistics Group, which run proof-ofconcept events and range trials.

A good example is Project G.I., DIU’s firstperson-view (FPV) drone challenge. In 2025, DIU brought a slate of small FPV systems from defense industry companies to Camp Pendleton for an intensive evaluation by Marines from I MEF. Over about eight days of flying, Marines ran these drones through combat-realistic scenarios, rating them on setup time, payload, endurance, resilience, and how well they fit into the Marine kill chain. “The G.I. Challenge puts our Marines at the center of capability development. Their expertise, combined with the innovation of our industry partners, is shaping the next generation of unmanned systems,” Brig. Gen. Michael Nakonieczny, Deputy Commanding General, I Marine Expeditionary Force, said about drone evaluation and training events held at Camp Pendleton, where Marines integrate commercial and tactical UAS into realistic operations. This “innovation cell” model was designed to bring mixing operators, experimenters, and industry together on the same range complex 18

which is often what people refer to when talking about Pendleton’s drone innovation unit. Marines at Camp Pendleton Train with a Full Spectrum of Drones • Small UAS (sUAS): quadcopters, FPV drones, and hand-launched fixed-wing systems for platoon and squad reconnaissance. These offer rapid situational awareness, especially in urban, littoral, or complex terrain. • Tactical UAS: legacy platforms such as the RQ-7 Shadow and RQ-21 Blackjack, which provided sustained ISR for battalions and regiments during major deployments. • Large UAS: MQ-9 Reaper operations—though flown from other locations—are integrated into exercises, helping Marines practice long-range targeting, maritime sensing, and kill-chain fusion. • Logistics drones: medium-lift platforms tested during exercises like Project Convergence to resupply dispersed teams without exposing

Marines disassemble the TRV-150 (TRUAS) drone after experimentation during Battalion Field exercise 1-23 on Camp Pendleton, on Oct. 19, 2022. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Casandra Lamas)

U.S. Marines with 1st Marine Division operate a Skydio X2D unmanned aerial system during a small unmanned aerial system integration and counter-sUAS course at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton on April 30, 2024. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Alexandra Munoz)

manned aircraft or convoys. • Counter-UAS systems: training that prepares Marines to detect and defeat hostile drones—an increasingly critical skill on modern battlefields. Roots of a Drone Testbed The story starts in the 1990s, when the Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory (MCWL) used Camp Pendleton as a venue for major “advanced warfighting experiments.” Exercises like Hunter Warrior (mid1990s) and Urban Warrior (late-1990s) explored dispersed operations and emerging technologies, including early unmanned sensors—to support Marines in complex environments. By the mid-2000s and 2010s, as Iraq and Afghanistan drove demand for “eyes in the sky,” Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadrons (VMUs) began using Pendleton’s ranges for training and integration with ground forces. Reserve squadron VMU-4 relocated to Camp Talega at Pendleton to better support I MEF, bringing RQ-7B Shadow training and detachments closer to the infantry battalions they’d support in combat. By the late 2010s, it was normal to see everything from catapult-launched tactical UAVs to backpacksized quadcopters operating over the base Over the past decade, the Marine Corps doubled down on small drones, autonomy, and unmanned logistics—transforming Pendleton into a year-round arena for testing, evaluating, and refining UAS tactics. Deployments and Operational Impact The drones tested and refined at Pendleton have supported Marines in Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, and across the Pacific. UAS detachments operating from Pendleton-trained units have provided overwatch for infantry, convoy security, strike coordination, battle damage assessment, and persistent surveillance in both counterinsurgency and maritime environments. As peer adversaries adopt FPV drones, loitering munitions, and electronic warfare, the lessons learned at Pendleton directly shape Marine

Contractor Nestor Flota launches a QR-20 Puma as part of Technical Concept Experiment 22.2 at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton on Sept. 21, 2022. The Puma is a small, battery powered, hand launched, unmanned aircraft system designed for surveillance and intelligence gathering missions. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Willow Marshall)

Corps doctrine for distributed operations and Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations (EABO). Why Camp Pendleton Is the Ideal Location Few installations offer the combination of terrain, airspace, and operational tempo that Camp Pendleton provides. Its 125,000 acres include coastal, urban, mountainous, desert-like, and forested environments—allowing Marines to test UAS across every terrain they may encounter in combat. Proximity to the Pacific makes it perfect for experimenting with drones in maritime and littoral missions, a cornerstone of the Corps’ future strategy. Pendleton also houses infantry battalions, reconnaissance units, logistics regiments, artillery, aviation support, and I MEF headquarters—all within minutes of each other. This density enables seamless integration: drones aren’t tested in isolation but alongside the very warfighters who will rely on them under fire. 19

The Way Forward As the Marine Corps accelerates digital modernization and autonomous capabilities, Camp Pendleton will remain a central engine of innovation. Future efforts include expanded FPV programs, AI-enabled targeting, autonomous logistics networks, electronic warfare-resistant platforms, and Marine-operator training pipelines. In short, Camp Pendleton isn’t just testing drones, t’s redefining how Marines fight, sense, move, and survive in the battlespace of tomorrow. Amy Forsythe is an award-winning combat photographer and U.S. Marine Corps veteran and author of "Heroes Live Here: A Tribute to Camp Pendleton Marines." She has spent more than 30 years telling the stories of service members around the world and serves as an advocate for veterans and military families.

KEVIN MIJARES

Community Events Calendar January/February 2026

JANUARY 2026 Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

NEW YEAR'S DAY

Friday

First Friday @ Tremont Collective 5-11pm

Saturday

Farmers Market @ Mellano Farm Stand 2-6pm

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

Free First Sundays @ OMA 12-2pm

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

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

Fundamentals of Drawing @ Dear Tomorrow 6pm

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

The Temptations & The Four Tops @ Harrah's 8pm

Dr. King Community Prayer Breakfast @ El Corazon Senior Center 9am

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

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY

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

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

Chef Ron McKinlay @ Matsu 4-8pm

Swell Plates Tasting with 24 Suns @ OMA 6-7:30pm

WSA Western Surfing Championship @ Oceanside Harbor

Intro to Hand Tool Woodworking @ Dear Tomorrow 6pm

Swell Plates Series by Visit Oceanside Starts Jan 14-Feb 1 Sounds & Swells @ California Surf Museum 7-8:30pm

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

San Diego Clippers @ Frontwave Arena 7:30-10pm

Scholastic Surf Series @ Oceanside Harbor South Jetty

Farmers Market @ Mellano Farm Stand 2-6pm

New Years Artist Market @ Artist Alley 12-5pm

Farmers Market @ Mellano Farm Stand 2-6pm

Outdoor Vendor Market @ Oceanside Antiques & Collectibles 10-4pm

Theresa Caputo Live! The Experience @ Harrah's 8pm

Dead Moose - A World Premiere @ Sunshine Brooks Theater Jan 23 - Feb 1

San Diego Clippers @ Frontwave Arena 7:00-10pm Andrew Santino @ Harrah's 8pm

NAACP MLK Day of Service @ MiraCosta College 8am

Meet the Author: Olivia Chilcote @ Civic Center Library 10-11:30am

Exhibition Opening "A Wonderful World" by Joe Valentino @ Studio ACE 5-7pm Spiritual Faire @ Mystic Soul Ritual Shop 12-6pm

ZACH CORDNER

My Bloody Valentine: Artist Market at Artist Alley happens on Saturday February 7th, from 12-5pm.

FEBRUARY 2026 Sunday

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

Monday

Free First Sundays @ OMA 12-2pm

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

PRESIDENTS' DAY

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

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

LUNAR NEW YEAR

Wednesday

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

Thursday

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

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

Air Supply - 50th Anniversary Celebration @ Harrah's 8pm

Tuesday

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

Oceanside International Film Festival @ Star Theatre

Farmer's Market 9am-1pm Sunset Market 5-9pm Oceanside International Film Festival @ Star Theatre

Friday

Saturday

Farmers Market @ Mellano Farm Stand 2-6pm

My Bloody Valentine: Artist Market @ Artist Alley 12-5pm

VALENTINE'S DAY

Musicians Open Mic Night @ Oceanside Alternative Medicine 6:30pm Oceanside International Film Festival Surf Night @ Brooks Theater

Oceanside International Film Festival @ Star Theatre

Farmers Market @ Mellano Farm Stand 2-6pm

North County Lunar New Year Festival 12-5pm

Local Flavor THE OSIDER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

How to Make an Al Pastor Torta By Señor Grubby’s PHOTOS: ZACH CORDNER

“ A Torta is a hot, Mexicanstyle sandwich served on fresh grilled bolillo bread. It comes with sliced fresh avocado, crisp lettuce, tomato, onions, melted jack cheese on a thin smear of house made refried beans and our special chipotle cream sauce. Our pastor is marinated pork cooked in house on a traditional vertical spit.” – Rob Bennett, Señor Grubby’s

Al Pastor Torta Ingredients: Torta bread 2 oz housemade Chipotle cream 2 tsp of refried pinto beans 1/4 cup shredded iceberg lettuce 1/4 sliced white onion 1/4 sliced beefsteak tomato Half avocado 8 oz al pastor (tender marinated pork known for it's unique sweet, and savory flavor, marinade from dried chilies and spices, vinegar, garlic, achiote and pineapple to add fruity notes. Cooked on a vertical spit [trompo] thinly sliced) 3 oz mix cheese

OPEN 7AM-2PM

EVERYDAY OCEANFRONTBREAKFAST ACAI & EXPRESSO

Instructions:

1. Spread chipotle cream on both sides of torta bread then put on grill until toasted 2. Smear refried beans to bottom half of torta bread 3. Layer iceberg lettuce on top of refried beans 4. Top lettuce with sliced tomatoes 5. Add onions 6. Melt mix cheese on top of al pastor meat 7. Layer meat over vegetables 8. Add the other half of torta bread cut in half and enjoy!

1508 S.PACIFIC ST.• OCEANSIDE

BUCCANEER-CAFE.COM 25

Historical Oceanside THE OSIDER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

Things You Didn’t Know About Oceanside’s Theaters WORDS: KRISTI HAWTHORNE PHOTOS COURTESY OF OCEANSIDE HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Movies have entertained audiences for well over a century and theaters are the only venue in which to view them. People flocked to see the wonder of cinema as silent movies turned into “talkies” and black and white films gave away to technicolor. Blockbuster movies exploded in the 1970s, followed by the thriller Jaws in 1975. It was the first movie to earn $100 million dollars and with the excitement that blockbusters brought, they also ushered in a new venue: the multiplex. With four to sixteen (or more) screens, moviegoers flocked to the large multiplexes which were being built in the 1970s and '80s. But today movie theaters are trending down, and perhaps out (going the way of Blockbuster video rentals) as viewers have largely changed their habits from streaming into theaters to see the latest hit to streaming movies on demand in the comfort of their own homes. Movie theaters may one day be obsolete and with Oceanside’s downtown Regal Cinema destined for demolition, we look at the history of theaters in Oceanside with nostalgia. 26

Interior of the Palomar Theatre

Historical Oceanside

Margo Theater, 1955

THE OSIDER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

Palomar Theatre, late 1920s

Towne Theater, 1979

On September 15, 1913, Will Scott opened the Elysium Theater on Second Street (now Mission Avenue) just above North Cleveland Street. The building was designed by architect Henry Lord Gay and built by local builder Frederick W. Rieke. A large audience was present to witness a “thrilling representation of the Battle of Gettysburg.” The auditorium was described as “spacious and airy, well lighted and provided with room chairs, arranged with a view to the comfort of patrons.” A handsome drop curtain, which was made in Oceanside, opened and closed shows, which also included theatricals, concerts or lectures. The Elysium operated for fourteen years when it closed in 1927. The reason for its demise was that of a new and more modern theater, the Palomar.

The new Palomar Theatre was built in 1924 on the 300 block of North Hill (Coast Highway) by A. J. Clark. It also featured films, as well as live entertainment such as comedy and vaudeville acts, but offered plush seating for 650 and a much larger screen. The original interior décor was an “Indian motif” and the exterior featured an electrically lighted marquee, with changeable letters “for displacing titles of the attractions to be presented.” It was remodeled twice in 1930 and in 1938 when a newer, more ornate marquee was erected.

The Margo Theater was built in 1936 at 217 North Hill (Coast Highway). This was noted as Oceanside's first major construction project in years since the Depression. The theater was to be named for the Rancho Santa Margarita but was too

long for the marquee, so it was simply shortened to the Margo. When it opened in November 1936, the Margo offered It’s Love Again, a romantic musical, to excited moviegoers. Originally owned by Frank E. Chaldek, C. A. Shaeffer, and J. A. Dundas, the Art Deco-style theater was “built of the best approved earthquake and fire-proof construction, with the latest improvements in ventilating, cooling and heating.” By 1955 the name of the theater was changed to the Towne Theater and owned by Erwin Sklar. By the 1990s the theater was used as a karate studio. In 1993 the theater was donated to the city of Oceanside by Hattie “Sunshine” Brooks and thus renamed the following year. The Oceanside Theatre Company has a twenty-year lease to operate the theater and provide cultural arts programming. Just recently, the Oceanside Theatre Company celebrated the start of a $2.2 million revitalization that includes interior improvements and remodeling, along with an expansion of the theater’s façade. While largely a performance art venue, the Sunshine Brooks Theater maintains the ability to show films.

Oceanside’s first drive-in theater was the Midway Drive-in which opened in 1948 at the southwest corner of Mission Avenue and Barnes Street. Owned and managed by Robert Shure, he announced the convenience of the drive-in: “noparking problems, freedom from outside noises, freedom from people walking in front of you in the theater while viewing the picture, perfect sound and view and no baby sitters. Parents bring their children 28

with them and let them sleep in the back seat of the car, if they are too small to enjoy the picture.” The most important component was the in-car speaker. “An individual speaker connected by cable which is placed into each car so that the sound is confined to the car. This speaker is so complete that when one stands in the field, outside of a car not a sound can be heard.” The Midway operated through 1974 and was torn down a year or two later.

Crest Theater, 1979

Things You Didn’t Know About Oceanside’s Theaters The Star Theater was built in 1956.

The Regal opened it's doors in December of 1999.

Erwin Sklar purchased property at the corner of First (Seagaze) and Freeman Streets in 1950 and built the Crest Theater which opened the following year. At the time it was built, it was one of the largest movie houses in San Diego County. It continued operation up until the late 1980s and after closing remained vacant for several years. The building was sold and has since been revamped and has been repurposed as a church.

Fred Siegel built the Star Theater in 1956. One of the largest theaters in San Diego County, the Star seats 960 people. Its first feature was Moby Dick starring Gregory Peck. Fred’s brother, Robert Siegel, owned the theater after Fred's death in 1962. Walnut Properties purchased the building in 1992. It was renovated throughout in 1997, including the large neon sign, which was created by the Electrical Products Company of Los Angeles. It is now a performance art venue. By 1978 Oceanside’s four downtown theaters received notices to clean and repair their facilities.

While they were all showing X-rated movies (no longer family friendly), they were in violation of health and safety codes, including broken seats and poor ventilation.

In 1966, the Valley Drive-In opened, however, its original name was the Mission San Luis Rey Drive - In. The theater opened with one aluminum screen which would “reflect three times the brightness of an ordinary drive-in screen.” In 1970, another screen was added, making it the county’s first “twin drive-in theater.” Later two more screens were added. The surrounding proper t y was of ten patrolled to keep cars from parking and sneaking a “free view.” The drive-in became home to a popular swap meet even after movie screenings ceased. The large screens were dismantled in 2016 and the area in Oceanside’s valley awaits development.

The Camino Cinema Four, a small multiplex, opened 1977 in what was then the Gemco 29

shopping center on El Camino Real, just north of Highway 78 (now Target). Operating for over nearly 30 years, the theater closed before the complete rebuilding and renovation of the Camino Town and Country Shopping Center in 2016.

Mann’s 8 Theater opened in 1980 in the El Camino North Shopping Center on Vista Way. Offering eight screens, at one time it was Oceanside’s busiest and most frequented movie theater complex. Its screens went dark in February 2000, the same year Regal Cinemas 16 opened in downtown Oceanside.

10.

In 1991, the Nickelodeon Theater opened at 431 College Boulevard. Later renamed CinemaStar, the theater is now Regal at Mission Marketplace. It just may be Oceanside’s last remaining movie theater standing once the downtown theater closes its doors. But audiences love a good come back story so until then….

Arts

THE OSIDER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

Taylor Gallegos WORDS: KATIE LALICATA PHOTOS: KEVIN MIJARES

Taylor in front of his mural at Artist Alley.

Taylor's mural on Wag's Liquor in South O.

What’s remarkable? Making it. In life, in general. But what’s even more remarkable? Making it as a creative, and not only making it as a creative, but then being the bridge of connectivity from the artists to the people. These unique individuals who can cultivate community, who can bring people together, who can create a union, especially when it comes to art and culture, these people are the mechanisms driving the pulse of society. These people are Taylor Gallegos. He wholly embodies life as this kind of remarkable bridge. He is a true asset to the Oceanside community and a catalyst to propelling a thriving art scene in this small sleepy, yet rapidly growing town. The culture, community, and history of art binds us in our shared humanness, and Taylor Gallegos is serving as the hub. As a classically trained artist his skill and hard work speak for themselves. His full wall-size street art style murals can be seen in both South O and downtown Oceanside. His artwork is neatly placed all over North County and can be viewed and purchased in The Hot Water Gallery in Carlsbad and also at the Witch Creek Winery where he is the resident artist. Beyond his art however is where his contributions really make their statement. It’s the conversations he’s offering to society that make him an exciting individual in this community. For the last five years he has hosted and produced a podcast “Making It: REAL Stories of Creative Success”. It’s an ode to celebrating all the arts and how in every profession there are expressive and beautiful ways people can harness and explore creativity. This project is especially aimed towards artists but is truly a benefit to all seeking inspiration. Beyond the podcast, there’s so much more! He has then taken these conversations, these learned successful processes, and created a blueprint on how to make it. He has built a five 30

pillar course for new artists to follow as they adventure beyond the art itself and into “making it” as a professional. It’s a cohesive roadmap crafted from the principles of real life artists who are surviving and thriving. It’s proof that dreams come true, creatives make divine professionals, and making it as a creative is a tangible and fulfilling career. Taylor’s creativity spills well beyond the walls and canvases he paints. His passion to ignite meaningful conversations makes him a magnet. And his ability to do that with people from all kinds of life is a testament to the dynamic nature he possesses. “I see Oceanside as an up and coming place with a lot of energy, people moving in, the economy growing, and a lot of raw talent. How do you make the talent rise to the level?” And Taylor Gallegos has entered the chat. He is one of a few shepherds herding this change as Oside levels itself up as a place to be for community, arts, and culture. His forward thinking bridges even beyond the two dimensional paint and canvas and into interactive and immersive event spaces. Taylor recently hosted an epic event with live music, interactive painting to the beats of live vinyl, all set in a casual gallery backdrop with wine being poured, Avant Guard outfits thoroughly being rocked by the guests, and people feeling empowered to explore their own freedom. The best part is there’s another event lined up mid year here in Oside. And all this simply as an offering of his heart, his conviction to “making it,” to creating conversations, spaces, and culture in Oceanside where art thrives as a pulse of this community. TolearnmoreaboutTaylorGallegos art commissions or upcoming events check him out on IG @taylorgtheartistorartattaylorgallegosart.com.

EATGRUBBYS.COM | #EATGRUBBYS

1006 Mission Ave, Suite A Oceanside, CA 92054 (760) 547-5554 SunshineKitchenOceanside.com INSTAGRAM: @sunshinekitchenoceanside

Vo te d BEST Pe t St ore 2025

WE’VE GOT YOUR FIX IN '26

c arls b ad * d el mar * nor th pa rk

xtersdeli

Te l l y o u

D OaGi d we s HI!

GrubbysPoke.com | @Grubbys_Poke Grubby’s Restaurants are locally Owned & Operated since 2008

Vladimir Medvinsky @tisvlad

THE PHOTO ISSUE Jesse Lopez @_.jesse.lopez._

Taking a look back at some of our favorite moments of 2025 captured in Oceanside

Zach Cordner @zachcordner

Kailoa Powers @kailoapowers

Daniel Carey @ djc.photo @ohspiratephotography

Sand Art: @tree_hippie1

Vladimir Medvinsky @tisvlad

Kevin Mijares @mijares_photo

Ivan Kaplow @stevensteelsberg

Michelle Kaplow @explore_oceanside Mike Yoshida @mikeyoshida Bruce the Trenchcoat Guy @oceanside_trenchcoat_guy

Community THE OSIDER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

Flowstate Run Club

WORDS: KATIA BRUNSON PHOTOS: KEVIN MIJARES

Don’t be mistaken, Flowstate Run Club is not a cult. Oceanside’s first run club has quickly garnered a reputation for cultivating members with an intensity towards running. Its founder, Ethan Herrera, is no stranger to the extreme and has successfully attracted a certain crowd, or profoundly influenced them, or both. In 2023, he noticed the lack of running culture in Oceanside and wanted to “build a community where we can all smile and suffer a little, together.” Every Saturday morning at eight, rain or shine, a core group of faithful Flowstate members meet and welcome newcomers at VITAL Climbing Gym on Coast Highway. To further distance themselves from any cult-like associations, club t-shirts are inscribed “Not a Cult”. 38

“We’re more like a band of misfits,” Flowstate member, Ani DeCroce, said. Flowstate is a diverse community of runners of all ages and levels who gather to make friends and get active. They celebrate each other's mile times, marathons, newborns, military service, and more. The club also knows how to have fun! Last summer, FlowState hosted its first annual “Beer Mile” competition where participants had to chug a beer (or milk! Or hot dog!) and run a mile as fast as they can while trying to keep it all down. The event brought out new faces and proves suffering can also be silly. Ethan’s mission to seek the limits of his own endurance seems to inspire those around him. His motivation to “help people do hard things” often finds him running alongside his friends to get them to the top of the mountain or make it to the finish line. Many members have completed their first half, full, even Ultra marathons since joining the club. Ethan’s own humble beginnings in his running journey came from the encouragement of his sister. “I never thought I would be able to run five miles,” he said, “but once I did, I wanted to do more. I wanted to see how far I could go.” Last year, Ethan embarked on his longest venture, running 287 miles from Santa Monica

Pier to Las Vegas. Joined by a team from the Flowstate community, he completed the grueling journey in four days. Some of his last few miles were made with his sister alo ngside. T he documentary, “The After Party”, premiered last October at Dear Tomorrow in Oceanside and is available to watch on Youtube. Flowstate has always valued giving back to its community. Anyone who visited Oceanside Strand on the 4th of July last year may have seen Ethan and Flowstate friends completing 137 miles to raise money for charity and celebrate the city’s 137th birthday. The club raised nearly $10,000 last year for local organizations, including $3,000 donated to Resilience, a local nonprofit dedicated to helping at-risk youth and young ad u l t s t h ro u g h m e n to r s h ip f ro m fo r m e r l y incarcerated individuals. 39

Flowstate continues to grow alongside neighboring South O Run Club. In friendly run club rivalry and the spirit of giving back, they’ve teamed up to wrap Christmas presents at the Oceanside Women’s Resource Center for the last two years. Flowstate celebrates Oceanside and strives to be a pillar in the community—not a cult, and not just a run club, but a clan of individuals who pay it forward and inspire each other to go the distance. Run club teaches us that: to do hard things, we go farther, together. “I used to do everything alone,” Ethan admitted. Now, there is fellowship to the finish line. You can follow Flowstate Run Club on Instagram @flowstaterun for running, events, and community!

KAILOA POWERS

Community THE OSIDER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

ZACH CORDNER ZACH CORDNER

ZACH CORDNER

Oceanside Boardriders Club

the competitors, board members, and volunteers for the helping hand throughout the event. We couldn’t have made this happen without the support of our amazing community and sponsors which include: Proper 32, PCH Mortgage, LTR, Koastal Kaos productions, Chris Abad Realty, Municipal, Buccaneer Café, Valerios1979, West land coffee roasters, Pier Pizza, Save Oceanside Sand, Nu Pacifica, Manera Wetsuits, Surfride, and Raen Optics.

Oceanside Boardriders Club Southside Shootout was held November 22 and 23 on the Northside of the Oceanside Pier. This is a member only club event that hosts the best young surfers of Oceanside in a friendly yet competitive environment. The event is also a major qualifier for our upcoming US boardriders season. The surf was in the two-to-four feet range with perfect conditions. We would like to thank 40

KAILOA POWERS

ZACH CORDNER ZACH CORDNER

Results

KAILOA POWERS

10 U: 1st Uriah Mcdonald 2nd Oliver Kipp 3rd Abby Platt 4th Aubry Truesdale

30-39: 1st Daniel Jacobs 2nd Ian Ryan 3rd Johnathan Pinheiro 4th Carlos Diaz

GIRLS OPEN: 1st Coral McDuffy 2nd Lacey Muckenfus 3rd Kaiea Campbell 4th Harlow Spooner

40-49: 1st Chris Abad 2nd Igor Lumertz 3rd Greg Abad 4th ViniclusFornari

14 U: 1st Parker Heit 2nd Jaden Platt 3rd Miles Dornan 4th Leo Heit

50 Plus: 1st Scott Quarrie 2nd Jeremiah Depesa 3rd Mark Sharpe 4th Justin Heit

15-19: 1st Townsend Heit 2nd Curren Bain 3rd Tyler Kratz 4th Owen Peppin

PRO AM: 1st Scott Quarrie 2nd Jeremiah Depesa 3rd Mark Sharpe 4th Justin Heit

20-29: 1st Tex Mitchell 2nd Mason O’Toole 3rd Luke Rebensdorf 4th Spencer Meppin

TO ADVERTISE in

Publisher Jamey Stone bucclife@gmail.com (760) 533-1003

Advertising Director Nolan Woodrell nolanwoodrell999@gmail.com (949) 542-9653

theosider.com facebook.com/theosidermagazine @theosidermag

Advertising Rep Kathleen Larson bepollinated@gmail.com (808) 780-6635

SKATE SHOP @ H E R I TA G E S K T B D S H E R I TA G E S K T B D S . C O M

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

HeritageSKTBDS 1019 S. Coast Highway 442-266-8002 Oceanside CA 92054

Looking to buy or sell in Oceanside? You deserve more than just a Realtor. You deserve a neighbor who knows the streets, the schools, the surf report, and where to find the best morning coffee. I love Oceanside. I live here, I work here, I play here, I GET IT. Whether you’re making a move or just thinking about one, I’m here to help. realtorinajeep_

Kim Collings REALTOR® | DRE 02001082 kim.collings@compass.com 760.612.6892

Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01527365. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate. License Number 01991628, 01527235, 1527365.

Cream of the Crop We have a full line of organic and local natural foods.

Deli & Prepared Foods • Vitamins • Natural Cosmetics • Local Organic Produce • Clean Label Grocery • Fine Wines and Cheeses

Family owned since 1989 Store Hours: 8am to 9pm every day

2009 South Coast Highway (760) 433-2757 creamofthecropnatural.com facebook.com/Cream-of-the-Crop twitter.com/CreamOfTHE_Crop

Visit O

THE OSIDER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

Swell Plates Series 2026: A Flavor Adventure Oceanside, get ready to eat your heart out! The second annual Swell Plates Series returns January 14 to February 11, 2026, serving up limited-time dishes from eighteen of the city’s most inventive restaurants. Expect hyper-local ingredients, chef collaborations, and that unmistakable Oside charm. Dine for a Cause More than just tasty fun, Swell Plates Series gives local restaurants a boost during a quieter season — and this year, it also supports our beaches. Most participating restaurants will offer the option to round up or donate $1 per plate to WILDCOAST, a San Diego nonprofit supporting the city’s sand renourishment efforts. New: Swell Plates Food Tours New this year, Swell Plates Food Tours turns dining into a bite-sized culinary adventure. Every Saturday and Sunday, join a guided walking tour with four tasting stops, chef meetand-greets, and a dose of local history and culture. Choose your playground: Downtown, South O, or a first of its kind Harbor-Inland route (with transportation included!). Tickets are $99 and can be booked atshoesandchews.com. Passports & Prizes The fan-favorite Swell Plates passport is back. Collect three or more stamps and you can enter to win a $50 restaurant gift card. For even more chances to win, follow @VisitOceanside on Instagram and tag a photo of your plate. Creative Plates, Local Stories Every Swell Plate tells a story. This year’s lineup includes dishes from female-led kitchens, art-inspired collaborations, plant-forward innovation, and sustainable seafood standouts. The Plot and Jitters Cafe use zero-waste magic to turn coffee grounds and banana peels into barbecue sauce and vegan “carnitas.” 24

Wrench & Rodent

Suns’ “When Pigs Swim” dish features smoked pork ribs with local wahoo and a fermented “souherb,” inspired by the Future Rituals exhibit at Oceanside Museum of Art. Merenda Wine Bar’s jambon-beurre, paired with a Grüner Veltliner, draws inspiration from the same exhibition, paying homage to ritual and place. Seafood lovers, rejoice: Valle, Matsu, Wrench & Rodent, Mangia e Bevi, and Lighthouse Oyster Bar & Grill are showcasing local catches with flair—think citrus-bright tuna tostadas, sheepshead tartare, squid ink linguine with sea 46

urchin, and delicate halibut rolls stuffed with shrimp and crab. Other local stars shine too: Odie’s Pizza Co. mashes up Craft Coast birria with his signature sourdough pizza crust, Piper Restaurant serves braised lamb on colorful, artist-made plates, and allmine wows with from-scratch porchetta that pairs beautifully with neighbor Dija Mara’s persimmon dessert. Swell Plates isn’t just a meal—it’s a whole vibe. Eat it. Love it. Tell your friends.

Valle

Privateer

Lighthouse Oyster Bar & Grill

Odie's Pizza

Mangia e Bevi

Swell Plates 2026 Participants DOWNTOWN 333 Pacific Allmine Dija Mara Flying Pig Pub & Kitchen Frankie’s (swell cocktail) Jitters Coffee Pub Matsu

Odie’s Pizza Co. Piper Valle (bar only) HARBOR/INLAND 24 Suns Lighthouse Oyster Bar & Grill Mangia e Bevi

SOUTH O Merenda Privateer (swell cocktail) The Plot Wrench and Rodent

Local Business THE OSIDER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

Thrive Coastal Therapy WORDS: ELIZABETH SCHWARTZE PHOTOS: ZACH CORDNER

Oceanside is home to Thrive Coastal Therapy, a burgeoning business that ensures Oceanside residents have access to the latest and greatest tools for treating mental health. Local Osider, Amanda Prestage, holds a Master of Arts (MA) degree with a credential in Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). She started Thrive Coastal Therapy in 2022 and has been passionate about investing in her city’s wellbeing. Prestage stated proudly, “Making affordable, quality mental health care available to my hometown community is my purpose in life along with reducing suffering by bringing advanced treatments to Oceanside.” The therapy provided by Thrive Coastal Therapy utilizes treatment in conjunction with evidence-based practices. Clients are then matched to a therapist that provides individualized care. Thrive Coastal Therapy provides services to treat addiction, anxiety, chronic pain, couples therapy, depression, EMDR, family therapy, grief and loss, individual therapy, ketamine-assisted therapy, PTSD/trauma, sexual dysfunction therapy, spravato treatment, teen therapy, telehealth, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Growing up in Oceanside, Prestage witnessed generations of mental health complications from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Both her father and grandfather acquired PTSD while serving in war, and she felt compelled to help. Not long after her graduation from El Camino High School in 1995, she enrolled at Wollongong University in Australia to become a psychologist. After college, Prestage then went on to work at Port Kembla Hospital for a decade treating mental health and addiction issues. Later she owned two private practices specializing in PTSD, chronic

Thrive owner Amanda Prestage

pain, chronic health issues, grief and loss, depression anxiety, OCD, ADHD, using talk therapy, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing). After twenty years in Australia, Prestage, her husband, and two children returned to the U.S. in 2012. Once her family was settled and acclimated to SoCal, Prestage was eager to get back in her field. She opened her first Thrive Coastal Therapy office in Carlsbad in 2022 and then the Oceanside office in April 2025. Thrive Coastal Therapy is comprehensive in its offerings that include cutting-edge therapy such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and ketamine therapy. “Thirty years ago, talk therapy was the only thing we offered. It’s great for many reasons and a good place to start, but sometimes I felt stuck and helpless that we would talk over traumatic events without being able to move on,” Prestage explained. “I moved back to the USA in 2012. It was at that time that psychedelics began to be researched for mental health. Currently ketamine is the only legal psychedelic treatment, however, it is only available for those eighteen years and older, and not all people may be approved for treatment. This is when I brought in TMS. Our Neurostar machine is the only FDA machine that is approved for teenagers fifteen years and older. We have seen life changing results with our patients here!” A brief overview into Thrive Coastal Therapy’s forefront mental health treatment include EMDR, TMS, and ketamine therapy: EMDR can help people with a wide range of mental health conditions. Adolescents, teenagers, and adults of all ages can benefit from this treatment. 48

EMDR focuses on changing the emotions, thoughts or behaviors that result from a distressing experience (trauma). This allows your brain to resume a natural healing process. TMS is a non-invasive, non-drug treatment that targets the specific brain region that has been impacted by using magnetic pulses to “wake up” the areas of the brain that may be underfunctioning. TMS is comparable to physical therapy for the brain. Ketamine therapy is a unique treatment approach that combines the use of the anesthetic drug ketamine with psychotherapy techniques. This emerging field has gained attention for its potential in treating various mental health conditions including depression for treatment-resistant depression; cases where standard antidepressant medications and psychotherapy have not been effective. In 2026, investing in mental health is a top priority, so Thrive Coastal Therapy accepts most major insurances. The Thrive Coastal Therapy concierge team will check insurance benefits and take care of the details, but the first step is to reach out! Prestage welcomes everyone, “We accept most major insurances making mental health care and treatment very affordable while we do not compromise on quality!” To learn more, visit thrivecoastaltherapy.com or call (442) 244-0019.

Thrive Coastal Therapy 2204 El Camino Real, Suite 315 (442) 244-0019 thrivecoastaltherapy.com @thrive_coastal_therapy

W R E N C H A N D R O D E N T SEABASSTROPUB

SEABASSTROPUB.COM 1815 S COAST HWY OCEANSIDE

O S I D E ’ S F O O D F O R A H E A L T H Y F U T U R E

RESTAURANT CATERING + EVENTS

THEPLOTRESTAURANT.COM 1733 S COAST HWY OCEANSIDE

Dining: Valley THE OSIDER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

Pork Belly Skewers

Chef Sho Bakkafrost Salmon and Spain Bluefin Tuna Nigiri

Spain Roll

Robata-X Sushi & Izakaya Right off Douglas Drive and Mission Avenue you will find the brand new Robata-X Sushi & Izakaya restaurant. The space that previously housed Fratelli’s has been beautifully remodeled, but, in wanting to honor their predecessors, the new owners kept some of their old touches like the stained glass features throughout the restaurant. We were so excited to try this new, all-youcan-eat place, and we were not disappointed! In fact, we were blown away completely by both the exquisite quality of the sushi, but also the sheer talent, love, and care that clearly goes into every single piece served. We had the absolute pleasure and privilege to chat with Executive Chef Sho who immediately shared that choosing Oceanside to open his new restaurant with owner, Andy Kim, was as easy as coming home. This feeling of homecoming is because he proudly opened Oceanside’s Love Boat Sushi twenty years ago, and it is still thriving. Chef Sho puts tremendous effort and years of talent into every roll, every piece of food. His resumé is stacked, as Sho also started all of San Diego’s Harumama locations which boast delicious ramen and sushi. We are so lucky to have him showcase his talents and delicacies right here in our town. Chef Sho made it clear that everything he makes is filled with love. He stated, “Robata means

WORDS: ALONDRA FIGUEROA PHOTOS: ZACH CORDNER

fireside cooking with friends and family, and X symbolizes unlimited love.” We love that idea and can tell that this is a labor of love for him. He is there seven days a week, working fifteen hour days because what makes Robata-X different from any other sushi place is Chef Sho’s devotion to bringing high quality sushi at an affordable price to the Oceanside community. We tried a variety of their fresh rolls and dishes starting with the pork belly skewers as well as the scallop and bacon skewers found under the Robatayaki section of their pretty extensive menu. Oh my gosh, the pork belly was spectacular. It literally melted in my mouth! The scallop and bacon were perfectly cooked and felt decadent. The skewers were followed by the Bakkafrost Salmon and Spain Bluefin Tuna nigiri which absolutely amazed us with how buttery soft the salmon was, and the tuna was so incredibly fresh. It was glorious! We also tried the Spain Roll which features real blue crab meat inside and is topped with Spanish fatty bluefin tuna with a drizzling of soy mustard dressing. It was my favorite and it was refreshingly delicious. Chef Sho shared that some of the fish served was freshly flown in from Tokyo’s famous Tsukiji fish market, and we could certainly tell. We tried the Camp Pendleton Roll which features krab meat, cucumber, avo, and gobo roll topped with baked salmon and scallop covered 50

with a house dynamite sauce and spicy mayo. It was very filling and perfect for those looking for a yummy baked roll. All of the dishes served to us at Robata-X were handcrafted with pure taste and heart in mind. Everything is made in house. All sauces, condiments, and soups are painstakingly made daily, and it shows. We had such a delightful time and encourage all of you to try it out immediately. You can’t go wrong with dining a la carte or enjoying the all you can eat menu for $50. If you really want to experience an amazing treat, go for the Omakase menu for $80 which is a steal for such quality freshness and taste. Note to the lovers out there…this would be a fabulous fancy date for Valentine's Day that is coming up! Be sure to stop by and experience Chef Sho’s newest restaurant right here in the valley.

Robata-X Sushi & Izakaya 3915 Mission Ave, Suite 12 (442) 266-8477 robata-x.com @robataxoceanside

Enzo’s Enzo’s BBQ BBQ Ale Ale House House

Celebrate your special moments with us! Host private events & parties . Father & son duo Enzo & Giuseppe Mistretta

4141 Oceanside Blvd. Oceanside.EnzosBBQ.com

760.643.9602

Encinitas Location Now Open!!!

Let us cater your next event with food everyone will love.

Dining: Valley THE OSIDER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

Executive Chef Luke Morganstern

Hangar 76 has some of the best wood-fired pizza in town. Garlic Cheese Rolls

Hangar 76 WORDS: SHELBY ROWE PHOTOS: KEVIN MIJARES

Right off the 76, across from the Oceanside Municipal Airport, there’s a spot you might miss if you’re driving too fast. But, don’t be fooled by its industrial exterior. Hangar 76 is a true oasis and the ultimate hangout for beer lovers, wine enthusiasts, and pizza connoisseurs alike. What sets Hangar 76 apart is how seamlessly it brings together three distinct experiences under one roof—a working winery, an on-site brewery, and a wood-fired pizzeria—creating a single destination that truly has something for everyone. Inside, you’ll find Carruth Cellars on one side, then Tipping Pint Brewing Company on the other, with a large shared space in between. Couches, high-top tables, bar seating, and even a cozy conversation pit make it easy to settle in whether you’re joining a couple friends or running with a large crew. Carruth Cellars brings a sense of novelty to the establishment on its own. This isn’t just a tasting room; it’s a working winery. Owner and winemaker Adam Carruth sources grapes from Northern California regions like Napa Valley and Russian River, then his team processes all Carruth Cellars wine on site (upwards to about 1,000 barrels annually). You can actually see the winemaking equipment, giving you a rare behindthe-scenes take while sipping your glass of vino.

Right next door, Tipping Pint Brewing balances things out with beer brewed on site by owner and head brewer Adam Jester (former head brewer at Pizza Port Solana Beach). The Mexican lager and double IPA are crowd favorites, but there’s always something seasonal on tap, giving beer lovers plenty of reasons to keep coming back. Now, outside is where the magic happens in the wood-fired oven at Hangar 76 Pizzeria. Executive Chef Luke Morganstern turns out scratchmade pizzas with dough that’s fermented for 24 hours and cooked Neapolitan-style using local oak and avocado wood. The result? Light, blistered crusts with that perfect chew and subtle smokiness. The menu hits all the right notes: standout pies like the Oside Flavor with red sauce, mozzarella, pepperoni, ricotta, rosemary, and hot honey, plus chicken wings, garlic cheese rolls, meatballs, and more. Everything we tried was genuinely excellent— some of the best wood-fired pizza in town. Add in a spacious outdoor backyard feel with picnic tables, fire pits, heaters, live music on weekends, and a fully kid- and dog-friendly atmosphere, and Hangar 76 becomes the kind of place you plan an afternoon around… then accidentally stay all night. If you haven’t been yet, this is your sign. Get on down to Hangar 76, and see what you’ve been missing! 52

L-R: Exec Chef Luke Morganstern, Carruth Cellars' Adam Carruth and Tipping Pint's Adam Jester.

Hangar 76 3229 Roymar Road (619) 887-4812 thehangar76.com @thehangar76

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

VOT E D B E S T C O C K TA I L O S I D E F L AVO R

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

Dining: Coastal

Dino Rib

THE OSIDER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

Brisket Wontons

Hill Street Brewing Co. WORDS: JAMEY STONE PHOTOS: ZACH CORDNER

Do you remember when what we now call Coast Highway was actually named Hill Street? Well, it was, and it brings back a lot of good memories for all of us lifelong Osiders. So, when Oceanside native Travis Lester decided to take over Heritage BBQ, it was a no-brainer to bring back the good times by renaming it Hill Street Brewing Company to honor his Oside roots. Right when you walk in, you’ll discover a next level kind of vibe. Everything is painted black with hot pink neon everywhere, a huge multiscreen monitor adorns the back wall, and there is super cool modern art everywhere. Travis wanted to be loud and highly visible while bringing a more modern look to the local scene. The food is also highly elevated. Think classic American BBQ but fused with Asian spices that

take everything to a whole new level of flavors. How do brisket wontons with a Thai dipping sauce that boasts a sour and spicy umami sound? Oh, and that brisket is wagyu and is brined for twelve hours, then smoked for another twelve. It shows from the very first bite. There’s also the tri tip which is so tender and is served with chimichurri salsa that is just straight up ridiculous. All of the classics are on point, too. The charro beans and mac and cheese are superb. The burgers and sandwiches are sizable and packed with goodness. You can wash it all down with one of the many custom cocktails from the bar or one of their micro beers that are brewed right on site. The service is great and caters to the hometown crowd with local and military discounts available 54

for those who have served, which is another nice tip of the hat to Oceanside and its lifelong connection with Camp Pendleton. I highly recommend giving Hill Street Brewing a try. The food is great, the vibes are high, and I promise you will leave full, happy, and blown away by all of the new flavors you have just experienced.

Hill Street Brewing Co. 2002 S. Coast Hwy (442) 266-8227 hillstreetbrewing.com @hillstreetbrewing

Once again, The Osider pays respect to our skateboard roots with the limited release of our new Oceanside Harbor deck.

Our new Lakers color-way hat is now available!

Get ‘em while they last at TheOsider.com

The Osider Publisher Jamey Stone

Bar & Restaurant Guide THE OSIDER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

SAN LUIS REY BAKERY & RESTAURANT 490 North El Camino Real (760) 433-7242

BBQ ENZO'S BBQ & ALEHOUSE 4111 Oceanside Boulevard (760) 643-9602

STRAWBERRY SHACK 211 N Tremont St (760) 458-0734

FELIX’S BBQ WITH SOUL 3613 Ocean Ranch Blvd. (760) 439-7072

BAR AND GRILLS BAKERIES/DONUTS 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

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

KIMY GETS SKINNY DOATNUT 2530 Vista Way (760) 231-1319

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

HILL STREET DONUT HOUSE 1926 South Coast Hwy. (760) 439-7741

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

I LOVE BAGELS 3910 Vista Way, Ste 101 (760) 945-3838

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

LA PERLA TAPATIA 1910 Mission Ave. (760) 721-8486

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

LE RENDEZ-VOUS FRENCH BAKERY 4225 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 414-9109

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

O'SIDE BAKERY 3815 Mission Ave. Suite 101 (760) 305-9500 PETITE MADELINE BAKERY 223 North Coast Hwy. (760) 231-7300 PARLOR DOUGHNUTS 331 N Cleveland St. (760) 231-5150 SAM’S DONUT SHOP 3504 College Blvd. Suite A (760) 945-0416

PRIMO FOODS 606 Morse Street (760) 439-8711

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

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

MR. DONUTS 1950 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 967-6508

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

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

THE FAMOUS HIGH-PIE 250 N Pacific St.

MISSION DONUT HOUSE 1502 Mission Ave. (760) 757-2979

GUAHAN GRILL 515 Mission Ave (760) 806-4826

COCOCABANA 408 Pier View Way (760) 688-0195

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

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

THE LOBBY TIKI BAR & GRILL 408 Pier View Way (760) 280-7902

KILOWATT BREWING OCEANSIDE TAPROOM & PROVISIONS 406 Mission Ave. (760) 231-1997 GREEN CHEEK 601 S Coast Hwy (442) 266-8171 HILL STREET BREWING 2002 S Coast Hwy (442) 266-8227 OCEANSIDE BREWING COMPANY 312-314 Via Del Norte (760) 453-7900 POUR HOUSE 1903 South Coast Hwy. (760) 730-5944

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

SOUTH O BREWING COMPANY 1575 South Coast Hwy. (442) 266-8244

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

STONE COMPANY STORE 310 North Tremont Street (760) 529-0002

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

TAP THAT 3207 Roymar Road Suite E (760) 433-4827

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

TIPPING PINT BREWING 3229 Roymar Road (760) 586-2898

PIPER 105 Mission Avenue (760) 512-3816

SK’S DONUTS 1129 South Coast Hwy. (760) 722-0455

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

BEACHBREAK CAFÉ 1802 South Coast Hwy. (760) 439-6355 beachbreakcafe.net

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

TONY’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL 274 South Harbor Drive (760) 433-8466

BREWERIES/TAP ROOMS

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

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

SOUND BY THE SEA 325 S Coast Hwy (760) 547-5441

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

101 CAFÉ 631 South Coast Hwy. (760) 722-5220

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BREAKFAST DINERS AND CAFÉS

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

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

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

BURGERS ANGELO’S BURGERS 621 North Coast Hwy. (760) 757-5161 2035 South Coast Hwy. (760) 757-4064 COSMOS BURGER 208 North Coast Highway (760) 607-7083 EAT CRISPY BURGER 207 N Coast Hwy 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

JOYEE DUMPLING HOUSE 3460 Marron Rd. #107 (442) 266-8416

NAUTICAL BEAN COFFEE CO. 240 Harbor Drive South (760) 722-4851

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

QUIK WOK 2184 Vista Way (760) 439-2228

O'SIDE STRAND CAFE 206 The Strand N

FILIPINO

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 1004 Mission Avenue (442) 372-7232 BLACK ROCK COFFEE BAR 1918 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 722-7133

PANNIKIN COFFEE & TEA 322 N Cleveland St PIER VIEW COFFEE COMPANY 300 Pier View Way (760) 966-1150 PLANTOLOGY CAFE 913 South Coast Hwy. (760) 805-3258 TAPIOCA EXPRESS 2611 Vista Way (760) 722-8279 TZONE 318 Pier View Way (760) 299-5678 REVOLUTION ROASTERS 1836 South Coast Hwy. (760) 529-9736 SUCCULENT CAFE 306 N Tremont St (760) 519-7163

CHICKEN SHOP

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

ANGRY CHICKZ 612 Mission Ave (442) 266-2167

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

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

DAVE'S HOT CHICKEN 4201 Oceanside Blvd Ste A (442) 291-1830

BROWN CUP 401 North Coast Hwy. (760) 231-7968

BEACH HUT DELI 280 Mission Ave. (760) 529-9767

CAMP COFFEE COMPANY 101 N Cleveland Street (442) 266-2504

BOARD & BREW 2213 S El Camino Real (760) 688-9217

CAPTAIN’S GROUNDS COFFEE 1832 South Coast Hwy. (760) 522-4271

THE CHEESESTEAK GRILL 1771 South Oceanside Blvd. (760) 529-0077

COATL COFFEE 105 Copperwood Way Ste. B (833) 332-6285

CREAM OF THE CROP 2009 South Coast Hwy. (760) 433-2757 creamofthecropnatural.com

KRISPY KRUNCHY CHICKEN 102 N Coast Hwy (760) 722-4471 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 CHIN’S SZECHWAN CUISINE 4140 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 631-4808 CHINA FUSION 4225 Oceanside Blvd (760) 726-8888

COMMUNAL 602 South Tremont St. (619) 376-5710 THE CUP 206 Wisconsin Ave. (760) 231-9817 EVERBOWL 2535 Vista Way (760) 754-1572

2530 Vista Way, Ste J (760) 283-8888

JB JUICE & COFFEE 4635 Frazee Road (760) 529-0807

CHU’S QUIK WOK 815 College Blvd. (760) 726-7771

JITTERS COFFEE PUB 510 North Coast Hwy. (760) 967-7886

GREAT WOK OF CHINA 4635 Frazee Road (760) 439-8939

LOLLICUP 4121 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 295-0824

DELI/SANDWICHES

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 SUBMARINA 3809 Plaza Drive (760) 945-7840 WEST COAST SOURDOUGH 1870 Rancho Del Oro Road (760) 696-3059

MISSION ASIAN MARKET 3320 Mission Ave. (760) 722-8024 FOOD COURTS CRACKHEADS OCEANSIDE 502 South Coast Hwy GASTROPUB 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 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

Bar & Restaurant Guide THE OSIDER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

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 TANDOORI GUYS 127 South Coast Hwy (760) 231-8093 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 BIG BOB’S BEST PIZZA 3617 Ocean Ranch Blvd. (760) 231-5050 BLADE 1936 401 Seagaze Drive (760) 231-1456

BROOKLYN BOYZ PIZZA 2183 Vista Way Suite B (760) 757-4992

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

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

CORNER PIZZA 1940 S. Freeman St. (760) 231-9002

JAMAICAN

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

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

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

JAPANESE/SUSHI/POKE

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

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

WICKED POKE 2401 Vista Way (760) 529-0774

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

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

HARNEY SUSHI 301 Mission Ave (760) 967-1820

GRAZIANO'S PIZZARIA 101 Old Grove Road (760) 231-5990

KAMPAI SUSHI 1906 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 757-1484

KILLER PIZZA FROM MARS 3772 Mission Ave. (760) 722-6060

KYOTO'S JAPANESE MARKET 559 Greenbrier Drive (760) 757-5456

KNOCKOUT PIZZA 401 Mission Ave. (760) 722-8888

LOVE BOAT SUSHI 125 Old Grove Road (760) 721-3737

MANGIA E BEVI 3613 Ocean Ranch Blvd. (760) 231-1225 MOUNTAIN MIKE’S PIZZA 455 College Blvd. (760) 295-3121 ODIE’S PIZZA 121 N. Cleveland (760) 579-2382 PIZZA GUYS 1830 Rancho Del Oro (760) 795-9888 THE PRIVATEER COAL FIRE PIZZA 1706 Pacific Coast Hwy (760) 453-2500 theprivateercoalfirepizza.com

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

POKI POKI 3480 Marron Road (760) 295-9086

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

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

MEDITERRANEAN

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

TWO BROTHERS FROM ITALY 4760 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 758-3638 1001 South Coast Hwy. (760) 758-3638 UPPER CRUST PIZZA 4196 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 630-9330

GEORGIE'S MEDITERRANEAN 1950 Oceanside Blvd, Unit R (442) 266-8099 MAAN’S MEDITERRANEAN GRILL 4259 Oceanside Blvd. Ste.107 (760) 726-2249 THE ORIGINAL KEBAB 224 North Coast Hwy (760) 231-7723 THE GREAT GREEK 1830 Rancho Del Oro Rd, Ste 150 (858) 883-1553 MEXICAN

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

ANITA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT & CANTINA 2250 South El Camino Real (760) 757-7745

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

1714 South Coast Hwy. (760) 722-6323 anitasoceanside101.com

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

VENEZIA 608 North Coast Hwy (760) 722-1228

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

PB POKE HOUSE 216 North Coast Hwy (442) 266-8143

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

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

KOREAN

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

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

ROUND TABLE PIZZA 3440 Marron Road (760) 434-5977

YUKIYA SUSHI 2415 Vista Way (760) 439-3283

MATSU 626 South Tremont Street (760) 231-6331

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

ROMA’S PIZZA & GRILL 617 North Redondo Drive (760) 757-2003

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

CAFÉ ROSARITA 1816 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 722-6224

COLIMA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 404 Pier View Way (760) 439-4045

ROBERTO’S TACO SHOP #13 518 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 757-2377

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

DE KOTIJA’S TACO SHOP 3504 College Blvd (760) 758-0399

SAN LUIS REY BAKERY & RESTAURANT 490 North El Camino Real (760) 433-7242

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

DIEGO’S MEXICAN FOOD 1030 South Coast Hwy. (760) 721-1985

SANCHO'S TACOS 400 Mission Ave. (760) 231-8228

EL MUNDO DE MARISCOS 3110 San Luis Rey Road (760) 754-8922

SEÑOR GRUBBYS 311 N. Tremont St. (760) 721-6040 eatgrubbys.com

LIGHTHOUSE OYSTER BAR & GRILL 262 Harbor Drive South (760) 433-1900 lighthouseoceanside.com

THE TACO STAND 1722 S. Coast Hwy (760) 385-6222

OCEANSIDE BROILER 1325 North Harbor Drive (760) 722-3474

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

TACOS DON PACO 1850 Rancho Del Oro Rd. (760) 696-3188

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

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

TONY’S FRESH MEXICAN FOOD 2983 Via Las Rosas (760) 433-5004

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

PHO HA 3905 Mission Ave (760) 754-5267

VALERIE’S TACO SHOP 3617 Ocean Ranch Blvd. (760) 712-1296

STEAKHOUSES

EVAGA LOUNGE 1906 Oceanside Blvd 760) 547-5624 FIESTA MEXICANA 3784 Mission Ave. (760) 757-9872 FRIDA'S TAQUERIA 2011 Mission Ave (760) 696-3104 GOURMET TAMALES 3616 Ocean Ranch Blvd. (760) 439-3343 HOMESTATE 510 Vista Way (760) 491-1636 JOHNNY MANANA’S 308 Mission Ave (760) 721-9999 JORGE'S MEXICATESSEN 1129 South Coast Hwy. (760) 696-3072 KING BURRITO 3490 Marron Road (760) 720-9747 LA FUENTE DE MARISCOS 2936 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 529-0150 LA PERLA TAPATIA 625 North Redondo Drive (760) 722-2877

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

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

333 PACIFIC 333 North Pacific Street (760) 433-3333 HUNTER STEAK HOUSE 1221 Vista Way (760) 433-2633 THAI CAFÉ DE THAI & SUSHI 4196 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 945-5533 OCEAN THAI 2455 Vista Way (760) 722-9779 3846 Mission Ave #A3 (760) 967-9901 RIM TALAY 508 Mission Ave (760) 435-2007

1910 Mission Ave (760) 721-8486

AL TOQUE PERUVIAN KITCHEN 1906 Oceanside Blvd Ste. EF (760) 625-3007

LOS TACOS 2183 Vista Way (760) 757-8226

CASERA LATIN KITCHEN & BAKERY 4225 Oceanside Blvd. Ste. D (442) 222-1332

MARIETA’S 485 Vandegrift Blvd. (760) 967-1769

LATIN CHEF PERUVIAN CUISINE 4259 Oceanside Blvd, Ste 105 (760)201-8997

MARISCOS HUALTUCO 3110 San Luis Rey Rd. (760) 754-8922

SEAFOOD

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MI ASADOR MEXICAN AND SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 4750 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 806-6684 PEDRO’S TACOS 656 Benet Road (760) 722-7221

SABAI SABAI THAI KITCHEN 1906 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 529-5597 SAVORY THAI 3829 Plaza Drive (760) 806-9606

VEGAN 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

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 WINE BARS/WINERIES BEACH HOUSE WINERY 1534 Sleeping Indian Road (760) 732-3236 BUENO WINE & GOODS 602 S Tremont St, Unit 103 (480) 334-4116 COOMBER CRAFT WINES 611 Mission Ave. (760) 231-8022 coomberwines.com 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 SECCO 301 Pier View Way (442) 266-2011

Dear O’siders,

2026 is lookin’

swell.

SAVE ON EXCLUSIVE O’ SIDE MERCH.

928 N. COAST HW Y, OCE ANSIDE , CA

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

Your Go-To Oceanside Agent

Fast Forward to Yesterday THE OSIDER JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

OCEANSIDE HISTORICAL SOCIETY

1978 KEVIN MIJARES

2026

Your Funner starts here!

Scan for tickets.

Theresa Caputo Live! The Experience Friday, January 16 The Temptations & The Four Tops Celebrating 40 Years

Sunday, January 18

Air Supply

50th Anniversary Celebration

Sunday, February 15

Black Label Society

With Special Guests Zakk Sabbath & Dark Chapel

Thursday, March 12

Andrew Santino: Live Friday, January 30

Chris Isaak Saturday, March 7

Jeff Dunham

Artificial Intelligence

Thursday, March 19

Clint Black

Bert Kreischer

Sunday, March 29

Saturday, May 23

Back on the Blacktop Tour

Permission to Party

Jim Gaffigan

Everything is Wonderful!

Saturday, June 6

Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com Learn more at HarrahsSoCal.com Must be 18 or older to attend shows. Entertainment subject to change or cancellation. Must be 21 or older to gamble and attend events. Know When To Stop Before You Start®. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Owned by the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians. Managed by HCAL, LLC. ©2025, Caesars Entertainment®. All rights reserved.