Craft Pizza & Beer Concept Headed for the Coast

Some readers asked us to look into the activity underway in Bird Rock at 5737 La Jolla Boulevard, where Bella Roma Pizza shuttered earlier this month.

Taking its place is a still-unnamed eatery from new proprietors who include Ted Cochrane, a La Jolla native with a background in the food industry.

Scheduled to reopen in early 2015 after a remodel that'll build upon the 1950s building's concrete and brick industrial vibe, the 2,800-square-foot restaurant with a 400 square-foot patio will center around wood fired pizza.

Cochrane notes that the surrounding area lacks for quality craft pizza; he's a fan of Encinitas' Blue Ribbon Artisan Pizza and says their pies will be more California-style than traditional Neapolitan. A gluten-free crust option will also be available and the menu will be rounded out by salads, charcuterie and appetizers ranging from meatballs to bruschetta.

The beverage program will feature 20 beers on tap, wine and, if a full liquor license goes through, craft cocktails. The plan is to be open for lunch and dinner, with weekend brunch to follow. Cochrane is also looking into catering, via a mobile unit that would house a pizza oven and beer taps.
· All Coming Attractions on Eater [~ESD~]