A significant shift will occur in San Diego's seafood dining landscape. The Brigantine Restaurant Group, a stalwart of the local dining community, is set to acquire The Fish Market, effectively merging two iconic seafood brands with a storied presence in Southern California's food scene. The Brigantine, known for its eponymous seafood and oyster bars, among other dining concepts, will add The Fish Market's two San Diego locations to its portfolio.
Mike Morton Jr., president of The Brigantine, Inc., emphasized his intentions to uphold the longstanding reputation of The Fish Market brand. "We definitely want to carry on The Fish Market brand," he told San Diego Magazine. The acquisition hinges on the consent of the Port Commissioner and will be a key point of consideration at the Port of San Diego's meeting slated for January. If the deal garners approval, it could conclude by mid-February of the following year, giving The Brigantine control over the lease at the North Harbor Drive property, which they hope to extend beyond its 2028 expiration.
Adding an interesting dynamic to the merger is the proximity of the current Fish Market location to the nearest Brigantine restaurant, which Morton believes is not an issue. "[The Fish Market] can buy directly off commercial boats," Morton specified in the interview with San Diego Magazine, highlighting a key differentiator between the two establishments. Furthermore, the Brigantine Group is already looking to potentially expand beyond California, with prospective sites in San Clemente, Nevada, Arizona, and Texas on their radar. However, these plans have not yet been solidified.
The Fish Market is respected in San Diego's community, having served diners since its flagship bay location opened in 1989. Thomas Wilson, director of The Fish Market Restaurants Inc., shared their decision to sell with San DiegoVille, stating, "The decision to sell The Fish Market was not made lightly." He expressed confidence in The Brigantine's ability to continue The Fish Market's legacy, which aligns with Morton's sentiment that the merger respects both brands' shared values and commitments. "The Fish Market’s reputation aligns perfectly with our mission of delivering memorable dining experiences," Morton stated as per the San DiegoVille report.
