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Mission Beach's new Sneak Joint raises the bar for good food
One might wonder whether the lack of signage at Mission Beach's newest bar and restaurant gave rise to its name: Sneak Joint. But the owner explained that the absence of a sign was due to the recent opening, two weeks ago, not a marketing strategy. Instead, the name refers to a place with “good food, good drink and a relaxed atmosphere,” a phrase he and his buddies coined during years of restaurant and bar hopping. But even without advertising, Sneak Joint — complete with graffiti on the walls and waitresses in bikini tops — speaks for itself.
Previously the location housed the beloved neighborhood bar Liars’ Club on Mission Boulevard between Seagirt and Sunset courts. Although locals are mourning the loss of $2.50 Friday pint nights and the iconic jukebox, they may find solace in Sneak Joint, where 20 beers are on tap and various playlists run according to the time of day.
But beyond the similarities of music and beer, Sneak Joint has an entirely different look and feel.
The outside is painted black and the interior has a retro-modern style. Artwork and skateboards line the concrete walls and dark barstools allow patrons to belly up to the full bar, although tables are offered as well. A deck opens up on the street side and serves as an alternative seating area.
Despite the bar, all ages are welcome. In fact, Sneak Joint welcomes anyone to wander in off of the beach or the street. The shoes-and-shirt rule is obviously not in effect, since the waitresses wear bikini tops and board shorts. Basically it’s a typical, laid-back beach restaurant, except for one aspect: the food. The owner wanted to serve “more than typical bar food” and was lucky enough to secure the sous-chef from Oceanaire. The menu offers “gourmet American” cuisine, with fresh fish daily and innovative takes on the typical burgers and sandwiches. One specialty item you can’t find just anywhere is the panko-crusted Brie. Another available item that may be difficult to find: tater-tots. They may not be on the menu, but they can be delivered on request.
The next time you’re in Mission Beach, try Sneak Joint. Whether you’re curious about the demise of Liars’ Club, craving tater-tots or looking for a cute waitress, Sneak Joint has something for everyone.
Sneak Joint, 3844 Mission Boulevard, 858-488-8684, sneakjointsd.com, serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily from 9 a.m. to midnight.
Have you visited Sneak Joint yet? Have you gotten over the loss of Liars' Club? Share your thoughts below ...
