There is little that can prove more satisfying to a surfer post-session than a great slice and high-quality brew. What is one to do when options near their favorite break are limited, however? As a result of this dilemma, La Jolla native Ted Cochrane has been hard at work over the past three years to open the highly necessary and anticipated Wheat and Water in Bird Rock. The location has historically been the home to a number of pizzerias and other Italian offshoots. Formerly JJ’s Pizza, Bird Rock Pizza, and Bellaroma’s, it was only natural for Cochrane to secure this location for Wheat and Water. Despite some red tape regarding commercial zoning laws, as well as an extensive overhaul on the building itself, Cochrane remains optimistic regarding his first foray as a restauranteur. “The past few years have taken a great deal of hard work and perseverance on our end,” says Cochrane, who, along with business partner, Doug Ritz, have done an impressive job on the exterior and interior structural changes. They stripped out all of the tile flooring and sheetrock, which unearthed fittingly exposed red brick facades. In a stroke of luck, they discovered that they already possessed a look that most trendy spots pay top dollar to emulate. One issue they did encounter, however, was that the former restaurant building (at the time of its inception around the late ’50s/early ’60s) was zoned for commercial use. After a good deal of back-and-forth to update their permits, and a “bottom up” transformation regarding the installation of brand new safety and kitchen equipment, Wheat and Water was up and running this past October. “It took some time, but now we’re dialing into what I’ve always wanted,” says Cochrane. “We aim to please all the wants of San Diego – craft beers and cocktails, wood-fired pizza, charcuterie, and other amazing menu items. Also, we want to present an environment that is both family-friendly as well as a place for the business professionals to knock back a few after work. Our staff is amazing in both the front and back of the house, which is crucial to our success.” Wheat and Water’s craft beer selection reflects the demands of a generation, with local and state breweries like Modern Times, Bear Republic and Coronado Brewing represented on the draught list. They also maintain a relatively extensive and moderately priced list of quality wines, as well. In keeping with trends, classic and innovative craft cocktails are ever-present on the menu as well. Though their proverbial bread and butter lies within their wood-fired pies, this is what allows them the cost margin to produce artisan cheese and meat plates, gourmet salads, pates, and much more. Their oven, acquired from Forno Bravo, ensures a classic style of pizza without duplication. Pizzas are divided into “specialty” or traditional “red sauce” categories, and can range anywhere from $15 to $20 for a generously portioned personal pizza. In less than one month of operation, Wheat and Water has already secured an active role in the community, hosting a Bird Rock Community Council happy hour on Nov. 21. Both Ritz and Cochrane are their on a daily schedule, and provided free sampler pies to the famished civic group. While surely their aim is to expand their business exponentially, both Ritz and Cochrane understand the importance in small businesses and community leaders working hand-in-hand. As young entrepreneurs, they have found an untapped resource in the Bird Rock community.
