Open on the Esplanade

By Jondi Gumz

Sixteen weeks after epic ocean waves crashed into Capitola’s Esplanade, causing enough damage to shutter all the restaurants, nearly all of them have reopened.

Once again, people are dining under the blue umbrellas on the spacious deck of Zelda’s on the Beach.

Also reopened:

• My Thai (which has boba tea)
• Pizza My Heart
• Paradise Beach Grille
• Margaritaville
• Capitola Bar & Grill (upstairs from Margaritaville)
• Mr. Toots Coffeehouse (upstairs)

When President Joe Biden came to Capitola Village after the Jan. 5 storm, he promised support.

As reported in the February issue, Biden said, “To the people of California, we are here for you and with you. We are not leaving until things are built back and built back better than they were before. You can recover from storms. We’ll be with your every step of the way.”

However, reports are that these business owners have not received federal assistance.

Still working on recovery: Tacos Moreno, Bay Bar & Grill and The Sand Bar.

Michelle Strong, owner of Capitola Bar & Grill, which reopened Jan. 19, reports  her landlord, Steve Yates, claims she defaulted on her lease by having music last year, a dispute that went to mediation then arbitration. She hopes the arbitrator will find in her favor.

Want to support these business owners?

• On Friday, May 5, Capitola Village and OfftheLipradio.com will present popular band Broken English from 4-6 p.m. at Esplanade Park.
• Then on Saturday, May 13, Capitola Village and Wharf Business Improvement Association will host Sip & Stroll from noon to 5 p.m.

Pre-registration is $45. This includes: Sip & Stroll commemorative glass, 12 two-ounce pour tickets, and a map of Village shops hosting

Check-in begins at 11 a.m. at the community room in the  City Hall at 420 Capitola Ave., next to the Capitola Police. Bring your Eventbrite ticket and photo ID to check-in.

State ABC regulations prohibit walking between tasting locations with any wine in your glass. So drink up or pour out any leftover wine before walking to the next!

Event will be rain or shine.

Let’s hope for sunshine.