Guests of the popular Pacific Grove restaurant Passionfish could not help but notice a yellow sign posted on the door announcing the application of an ownership change.
Ted and Cindy Walter, who made Passionfish a leader in sustainable cuisine known for a well considered wine list, as well as one of the finest kitchens in Monterey County, are looking to bow out after 27 years. The notice from the state Alcoholic Beverage Control office lists Charbar LLC as the applicant.
Charbar was registered with the California Secretary of State in May. While the paperwork was filed in Glendale, the address associated with the document is a residence in Pacific Grove. The address is associated with Meral and Celal Alpay, longtime Redwood City restaurateurs. They could not be reached on Thursday afternoon.
However, the restaurant is still in escrow. Closing is not expected until mid to late July. So the Walters remain on duty at the restaurant for the time being—a welcome sight for Passionfish’s many fans.