Fonz's Rekindles Manhattan Beach Magic with Five Sold-Out Nights of Pure Nostalgia

There’s just something truly special about a beloved local spot making a comeback, isn't there? And for folks in Manhattan Beach, the return of Fonz's isn't just a comeback; it's like a warm, delicious hug from the past. The iconic restaurant, a real cornerstone of the community for years, has made a triumphant, albeit temporary, return this week, sparking a wave of nostalgia and selling out five whole nights faster than you can say "surf's up!"

Seriously, it’s been incredible to witness the outpouring of excitement. The reservations for Wednesday through Sunday at the original 1017 Manhattan Avenue location, now home to David Slay's Fête Bistro, vanished almost instantly. It just goes to show you the deep affection people still hold for Fonz's. It's more than just a place to eat; for so many, it holds a treasure trove of memories, from casual dinners to celebrations and everything in between.

Let's take a little trip down memory lane, shall we? Fonz's first opened its doors way back in 1997, a brainchild of Danny Boehle and the legendary beach volleyball star, Mike Dodd. The name itself, "Fonz's," was a heartfelt tribute to Mike's late father, making it feel personal right from the start. For over two decades, it carved out a unique space in the heart of Manhattan Beach, becoming that go-to spot where everyone felt welcome.

Danny Boehle, who eventually bought out Mike Dodd's share in 2005, kept the Fonz's spirit alive and thriving for many years. It was quite a run, with the restaurant even earning official recognition from the Manhattan Beach City Council in 2017 for its longstanding contribution to the local business scene. That same year, Danny decided it was time to sell his interest, bringing an end to an era that many thought was gone forever.

After Fonz's, the space saw a couple of new tenants. Michelin-starred chef Josiah Citrin took the reins, opening Costa Manhattan Beach in late 2019, but unfortunately, that venture closed its doors by the end of November 2020. Then, in December 2021, Pa-Do Dumpling and Noodle Bar moved in, adding another chapter to the address's culinary history. But this week, it’s all about Fonz's, and it feels absolutely right that it’s back where it all began, even if just for a little while.

So, what can returning patrons expect? Well, Chef Luis Sandoval, a beloved figure from the original Fonz's kitchen, is back, ensuring that signature taste and feel. And how cool is it that David Slay, the current owner of Fête Bistro, graciously offered up his space for this sentimental journey? It's truly a testament to the community spirit. You can bet there’s a whole lot of reminiscing happening, perhaps even a few glimpses of old AVP beach volleyball footage featuring local legends like Tim Hovland, just like in the good old days. Talk about a blast from the past!

Now, the big question on everyone's mind, of course, is: "Will Fonz's ever come back permanently?" Danny Boehle himself is hinting at the possibility of another pop-up around Christmas time, which would be fantastic if it pans out, though that's still just a hopeful guess depending on this week's success and Fête Bistro's availability. As for a full-time return, it’s a tricky prospect. Danny’s looking for a "special offer" to minimize the financial risk, and while discussions about a potential Playa Vista location have surfaced, nothing, absolutely nothing, has been settled yet. So, for now, we'll just have to cherish these five special nights.

Whether it’s the memories of a simple meal, a cheering crowd watching beach volleyball, or just the warm, welcoming atmosphere, Fonz's holds a special place in the hearts of Manhattan Beach residents. This week's sold-out pop-up is more than just a series of dinners; it's a beautiful, heartfelt reunion, a testament to the enduring power of community, good food, and shared history. And who knows? Maybe, just maybe, this isn't goodbye forever, but rather, "see you later, old friend."