Inland Tavern Ready To Debut

After months of delays, Inland Tavern in San Marcos is finally set to open on January 15.

The menu isn't ready for distribution yet, but Eater got a sneak peek of three items: Kale Kobb salad (beer can chicken, tomato, egg, house paneer, bacon, avocado "goddess"); Kung Pao Carnitas tacos (corn relish, chevre, cilantro); and an Avocado Brie Torta sandwich (cucumber, watercress, kumquat moustarda, house mustard).

The idea is to bring the flavors of California's coast inland, hence the name.

The restaurant hosted a friends and family soft opening last Friday (the signage, above, went up the day after). Stop by now, but only for drinks; the full food menu will be released in line with the grand opening next Thursday.

In September the owner of the two-decades-old Penny Lane Pub and Grill shuttered the eatery at 1001 W San Marcos Blvd. to reopen as the new concept. An opening was originally slated for October.

To celebrate Inland's anticipated arrival, the party kicks off Thursday at 3 p.m. with food and drink specials, live music and a photobooth.

The website, which goes live next week, states the restaurant's mantra: "We believe white linens are overrated and beer tastes better when you're wearing boardshorts and flipflops."

The interior features modern touches with shades of blue, tan and dark grey to represent the colors of the coast.