4 concession stands at Bolsa Chica State Beach set for makeover

SUNSET BEACH, Calif. (KABC) -- Four concrete concession stands at Bolsa Chica State Beach are set for a makeover. The stands, which closed two years ago, are getting revamped by a local restaurant owner.

Alicia Whitney owns Sea Legs Wine Bar in Huntington Beach and now the four stands at Bolsa Chica. She plans to offer dishes like bruschetta, flat-bread pizza, braised chicken tacos and beer and wine.

"I really wanted to create concessions that gave you the best of the best offerings that of which you can get when you're in Huntington Beach," said Whitney.

California State Parks came up with the idea and is helping fund the project. The state picked Whitney and her team from a list of bidders to revamp the concessions as part of a long-term partnership.

A spokesperson sent ABC7 Eyewitness News the following statement: "We expect the concessions to be positive contributions to this public treasure, offering an enhanced experience for the public."

Diners will be required to finish their beer and wine at the restaurants before stepping onto the beach, where drinking is illegal. Park rangers believe it'll actually help stop people from bringing their own alcohol.

Whitney said each of the four stands will offer something unique and different, ranging from craft burgers and ice cream, to gourmet dining, to fresh seafood, to grab-and-go sandwiches and fresh juices.

"We have created four different restaurant options with ranges from all different price points, and demographics," Whitney explained.

The first concession stand is set to open Memorial Day weekend with the rest opening by the end of the summer.