The Patio Preps New Fireside Concept for Liberty Station

The Patio Group, which operates The Patio on Lamont and The Patio on Goldfinch, plus The Front Porch gourmet shop and The Swell Café in Mission Beach, just popped up a mini-version of The Patio in Petco Park's left field earlier this month.

Now, Eater has the latest on the hospitality brand's next expansion, a new concept that will slot into a former firehouse in Liberty Station, last occupied by Sol Bistro & Market, which shuttered in 2012.

Originally called The Backyard, until a similarly-named spot launched in PB, it has since been renamed Fireside by The Patio. Owner Gina Champion-Cain says the new venue will have a different look than its existing restaurants, but will maintain the group's signature pet-friendly environment and neighborhood focus.

Set to open in summer 2015, Fireside by The Patio will run on two open kitchens fueled with wood-fired grills, smokers and ovens, custom-built by Rox Designs. Overseeing a casual, interactive menu of wood-fired flatbreads, grilled meats, vegetables and salads will be the group's Corporate Executive Chef John Medall, with ordering done by counter service via tablets and the restaurant's staff.

Open daily from 11 a.m. to midnight, with brunch served from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekends, the renovated space will have room for 300, include a communal dining area and naturally, lots of patio space. An indoor and outdoor bar will serve craft beer, wine and cocktails.