Many people loved the Canvas Café, the “community center” of the Inner Sunset.  When Pacific Catch set up shop in its place 2 years ago, some boycotted and even wrote us in protest.   What many don’t know, is that Keith Cox, owner of Pacific Catch, and Matt Blair, owner of Canvas Café, have been friends for years and the change of hands was mutually beneficial for both parties. 

Another interesting tid bit, is that Pacific Catch and Canvas Cafe aren’t only related by long friendship. Matt’s wife, Laura Smith Blair, did the artwork that hangs in all Pacific Catch locations.  She has been creating unique, ocean themed paintings for us since we opened the original Pacific Catch location on Chestnut Street back in 2003. 

The Canvas Café was a great neighborhood spot known for highlighting local artists.  In keeping this spirit alive, Pacific Catch, has evolved into a comfortable, neighborhood spot, where locals can gather and enjoy art, however we’ve thrown in some innovative fresh fish dishes and fun cocktails too.

If you’re a neighbor that still hasn’t made it in, you should come check it out. 

You might even like it!

Recently I went out to breakfast with my family.  There were four adults and my 8-month-old son.  It was a small place that was crowded, so I understood having to wait. We stood on the sidewalk staring down at the people seated at the large table in the secluded window. That table seemed like the perfect spot for a family that wouldn’t be intrusive to the other guests. As a parent who works in the restaurant industry, I’m aware of not wanting to ruin the dining experience of those around me because I have a child.

The people at the window table were just about to finish so I started focusing on the stack of pancakes I had been thinking about all morning.  The hostess called our name and told us we had to leave the stroller on the sidewalk because the restaurant was narrow. I thought to myself, there must be a better kid friendly table in the back, Yippee! That was not the case. We were seated at a table in the middle of the restaurant.  They did have a high chair, which was appreciated, but it had to be placed at the end of the table which was in the narrow walkway of the servers and other guests.

Two minutes after being seated, the group of three adults waiting behind us settled in at the large table in the secluded window. “Hello, we would have waited for the big table, which would have made things better for everyone.”  Instead the staff had to straddle the high chair and the hung over couple next to us had to endure a baby practically sitting at their table.   It was at that moment that I realized the true meaning of “Kid Friendly”.  It’s not just about highchairs and kids cups. It’s about being aware.  I realized then, that at Pacific Catch, we DO get it!

Families have embraced the Pacific Catch 9^th Ave. and Corte Madera locations because we are aware.  We understand that dining with children can be a challenge; therefore from the moment you are welcomed by our host/hostess, meeting your special needs is a priority.  Where you sit, your food coming out in a timely manner, providing tools for distraction and snacks while you wait, are all part of our standard practice.

Congratulations Pacific Catch 9^th Ave. for recently being recognized as an Opentable 2010 Diners’ Choice Award Winner for being “Kid Friendly.”

Chamin Mills
Marketing Manager/Event Planner
Pacific Catch Corporate