Beach & Barrel, a surf-shack-style spot from local restaurateurs Chris Pinta and Rusty Phillips, has rolled out a tiki-themed pop-up on Third Street in Fairport Harbor while the team finishes a larger buildout. The temporary setup is already pouring craft beer, wine and fresh sangria and is slated to run Thursdays through Sundays from 4 to 9 p.m. as the owners prepare a full-service restaurant expected to open this fall. The multi-storefront project is planned to feature outdoor patio seating and a beer garden across the street.
Pinta said the goal is simple: make the harbor feel like a vacation. “We want to make you feel like you're on vacation,” he told reporters, adding that the team “went from a dive bar to good elevated, approachable food,” according to Cleveland.com. The buildout is expected to span roughly two-and-a-half storefronts and seat about 130 people when fully open this fall.
Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area Means Walkable Drinks
Fairport Harbor's Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area lets patrons carry DORA-approved cups between participating businesses on Third Street and nearby blocks, something the owners say makes it easy to wander between the pop-up, patio and beer garden. Per the Village of Fairport Harbor, beverages purchased from participating establishments may be carried within clearly marked DORA boundaries.
Menu, Space And Vibes
The menu is expected to focus on elevated coastal comfort food: burgers, fish tacos, raw oysters and ceviche are all in the plans. The temporary tiki setup is designed to channel a Key West-style vibe while construction continues. For now, the pop-up is serving craft beer, wine and fresh sangria, and the owners also plan to bottle small batches of Pinta's former Hotd Wake Up Juice for the bar program. They have launched "First Fridays" events, with the Aug. 7 block party set to feature live music and a food truck, according to Cleveland.com.
Behind The Build
Pinta bought the Third Street building in 2019 and converted the upper floor into three bed-and-breakfast suites before teaming up with Rusty Phillips, who is known locally for The Pompadour. Destination Fairport Harbor lists The Pompadour among downtown dining highlights, underscoring how Beach & Barrel fits into the village's growing restaurant scene.
When To Visit
The tiki pop-up is currently open Thursdays through Sundays, 4 to 9 p.m., and the owners say they may host special or ticketed events ahead of the full fall opening. For now, locals can expect a casual, drink-forward pop-up with patio seating while the broader restaurant and beer garden plans are completed.
