By Tim Pompey | Photos by Viktor Budnik
Unique little food nooks filled with local character are getting harder to find. Guy Fieri made a name for himself on the Food Network by featuring these slices of Americana on his hit show “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” Finding something like this right here in Oxnard? It’s like stumbling upon a chest full of culinary riches in a real-life treasure hunt.
Tucked away in a corner of Channel Islands Harbor is our own local gem, Hollywood Beach Cafe. Owned by Frank Saslow for the last eight years, it has been catering to both local beachgoers and vacation crowds that have become a regular part of the Hollywood Beach scene. Its intimacy, great food, friendly service and a touch of personality make it a must-stop for Ventura County families and friends.
When Saslow purchased the building that formerly housed Mrs. Olson’s — another local favorite, still in existence in a new location — he did a major renovation. Hollywood Beach Cafe opened to the public in June 2016, with a remodeled the interior and expanded the patio area. It was, in Saslow’s words, “a major undertaking.”
His vision for the location was what drew him to this site. “I just thought this space could be utilized better,” he explained. “I have a strong sense of community, and I just thought I could step it up and make it a lot better.”
Since Saslow is not a restaurateur by background, the endeavor was risky. “I remember sitting in here when those walls were ripped out, and I didn’t know how they were going to come together. I asked, ‘What did I get myself into?’”
Happily, for both the owner and his many customers, the risk paid off. Business is good. Saslow loves his staff, and people seem to enjoy the food.
He acknowledges that the restaurant business is tough, dealing with food, people and employees. As he describes it: “There are so many moving parts.” But his vision for the café has gelled.
“I wanted everybody to feel at home,” Saslow said. “I always felt that this location had really good energy. I think the location itself, tucked away, kind of creates a uniqueness about it. It’s a go-to for a lot of people.”
The food consists largely of American classics with a big dose of Mexican specialties. The menu includes most family favorites, but you can find a variety of Mexican-themed breakfasts, tons of pancakes and egg dishes, a Hawaiian “crazy burger,” and even a vegan and gluten-free walnut brownie. For lunch, there are lots of soups, burgers, nachos and a mango chicken salad. Dinner is served Friday and Saturday from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Saslow has aimed to create a restaurant where people feel relaxed, the staff can be themselves, and everyone has a good time being together.
“I want that homey feel,” he explained, “where you feel like you’re going to your relatives’ house.”
So come on down. Stroll on the beach. Bring your pets and kids. Dial up your GPS and make an outing to the Hollywood Beach Cafe. (Helpful hint: It might be easiest to park at the harbor and walk over.) Find something new and tasty. It’s definitely worth a treasure hunt.
Hollywood Beach Cafe
117 Los Altos Street, Channel Islands Harbor, Oxnard
805.590.2233
www.hollywoodbeachcafe.com
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