Wind & Sea, a long-standing restaurant in Dana Point Harbor, will close its doors permanently on September 15 after 50 years of operation. The establishment, known for its signature Mai Tai cocktail, announced the closure via social media last week, citing the end of an era after serving the Orange County community since 1972.
Bob Mardian, who opened the restaurant at age 24, is reportedly the last original business owner remaining on the wharf. He signed the lease in 1971 and opened Wind & Sea a year later, becoming the first restaurant on the wharf at the time. Mardian expressed gratitude for his "good run" spanning over five decades, stating that his professional life has been dedicated to the company he started. He estimates the restaurant has sold approximately 3.5 million Mai Tais during its operation.
In response to inquiries from patrons, the restaurant teased that it would share the recipe for its iconic Mai Tai before its closure. Fans have shared their sentiments on social media, with many recalling personal milestones and traditions associated with the restaurant.
The closure coincides with a $600 million revitalization project underway in Dana Point Harbor, which aims to reshape the waterfront into a more connected destination. Demolition of existing waterfront buildings is already in progress. It remains unclear whether Wind & Sea will relocate as part of the harbor's redevelopment, along with other businesses affected by the construction.
Mardian plans to send Wind & Sea off in style, with an auction of restaurant items including furniture, artwork, and memorabilia to take place.