Today we’d like to introduce you to Nick Zanoni.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My first foray into the bar scene was with Thruster’s Lounge, in Pacific Beach, in 1999.
I’ve always been passionate about the cocktail scene in San Diego and wanted to create a space that harkened back to the good ole days of my childhood. In 2005, as co-founder of Farm 255 restaurant in Athens, GA, my partners and I offered farm to table cocktails before such terms were ubiquitous, and Region restaurant was inspiring others in San Diego.
Has it been a smooth road?
When we first opened Sycamore Den, the identity of Normal Heights was still evolving (led in large part by Blind Lady Ale House). There were only a few of our neighbors open at the time, so it we initially struggled to drive traffic to the neighborhood.
But over the years, Normal Heights has really taken shape into the community it is today – thanks in major part to the Adams Avenue Business Association and the recent growth of surrounding shops and restaurants.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Sycamore Den draws inspiration from the 1970s when Dad was bearded, strong, smoked Newports and quenched his thirst with lite beer. We worked with award-winning design group Bells and Whistles, known for their work at Starlite Lounge and Campfire in San Diego.
The inspiration behind The Den’s nostalgic design is a modern take on a late 1970s middle-class family living room, complete with a functioning fireplace and (non-functioning) wall hug shotguns. Now in our fourth year, we are known for our craft cocktail program led by Jesse Ross. Our menu consists of contemporary takes on classic cocktails of the decade – utilizing fresh, house-made liqueurs, purées and cordials.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
San Diego has grown and changed over the past four years. When we first opened, we were one out of a handful of craft cocktail bars.
Sycamore Den’s style and quality of cocktails are still unique in this landscape – and The Den is known as a spot for industry folks. San Diego’s craft cocktail scene is packed with talent and I always look forward to seeing the creativity that comes out of it.
Contact Info:
- Address: 3391 Adams Avenue San Diego, Ca 92116
- Website: http://www.sycamoreden.com
- Email: info@sycamoreden.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sycamoreden/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SycamoreDen/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/sycamoreden
Image Credit:
Matt Rogers, Arlene Ibarra and Lori Sokolowski
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