Point Loma, get ready to welcome a new neighborhood favorite. Owners Andy Zlotnik and Jordan Brownwood, along with his wife, Mariah Brownwood, are bringing their eclectic restaurant and bar backgrounds together to create a new space named Royale (formerly Sessions Public) for the community to eat, drink, and hang.
With a beachy, but modern vibe of blues, greens, chandeliers, and clean lines, Zlotnik and his crew made some design changes to the venue. “No more dark, reclaimed wood, and we are really opening the place up, making it light and bright,” says Zlotnik, who also owns University Heights’ Park and Rec and Waypoint Public (North Park and Del Sur).
Donning its new bright orange logo, Royale will serve as a fresh and fun take on a classic hamburger diner. The idea of modernizing the hamburger stand originates from Brownwood’s acclaimed food cart, Royale with Cheese, which he started while living in Austin, Texas. Zlotnik and Brownwood, both having grown up in San Diego’s East County, joined forces back in 2015 at Park and Rec, and are excited for their new collaborative venture on Voltaire Street.
With Brownwood growing hops, citrus, and some produce on his own Valley Center farm, the pair says they plan on incorporating fresh ingredients wherever possible. “The menu is going to be pretty simple,” states Zlotnik. “Classic burger, fancy burger, grilled cheeses, some salads, chicken sandwiches, tater tots, fries, fried veggies, and roasted seasonal veggies.”
The drink menu will include 8-10 craft beers and wine, but will really focus on delicious craft cocktails, catering to those who crave something new, fresh, and unique.
Got some youngens? No problem! “We are really looking forward to becoming a spot for families, as well and getting involved in the community,” said Zlotnik, a Point Loma local. “We want to bring more people over to this corner on Voltaire Street, and also get involved with organizations like Little League, schools, etc.”
Royale will be open from 4 p.m to close during the week, and 9 a.m. to close on the weekends. Their weekend brunch menu will feature an array of breakfast sandwiches and simple morning staples. Perhaps the best part of it all? They will host a late-night happy hour from 10 p.m. to close during the week. Royale Where: 4204 Voltaire St. Hours: Opening in mid-December.
