Sandbox Solana is thrilled to celebrate the opening of CTZN (pronounced “citizen”), the exciting Basque tapas bar and restaurant from the celebrated team behind La Clochette Cafe & Bakery. Following a soft opening on August 6 and official grand opening on September 3rd, 2025, CTZN has quickly established itself as North County’s newest culinary gem, bringing the bold traditions of Basque culture to Solana Beach.
A Culinary Journey to the Basque Country
Inspired by a transformative visit to a tapas bar in Boston, siblings Willy Wu Jye Hwa and Karine Beers drew upon their French heritage and travels through the Basque region spanning northern Spain and southwest France to create a dining experience that celebrates food as celebration. The result is a menu that tells the stories of Basque Country through inventive dishes and drinks designed to transport guests on an immersive sensory journey.
CTZN’s pintxo-style menu masterfully blends Basque classics with California farm-to-table flair and unexpected pairings. The concept reimagines Basque rituals and flavors with a rebellious West Coast spirit, honoring the Basque belief that food is a religion, a blind faith, and a matter of utmost importance.
A Menu Designed for Sharing and Discovery
The dining experience at CTZN revolves around exploration and communal enjoyment. Must-try dishes include perfectly executed Spanish classics like croquetas de pollo, pan con tomate, and patatas bravas. The quesos selection, plated with jamón ibérico (proudly displayed from the kitchen), spicy chorizo, and buttery lomo, pairs beautifully with wine and good bread.
The Raciones menu showcases bold plates that mix coastal freshness, local produce, and Basque-inspired flavors. Standouts include charred Temecula avocado with crisp talo, bluefin tuna tartar with smoky shoyu vinaigrette, wood-fired squid with cilantro emulsion, grilled prawns in espelette butter, and pulpo with chorizo romesco. Seasonal vegetables bring balance and depth with offerings like beets with peach vinaigrette, charred carrots with smoked honey, and wild mushrooms over yam purée.
For heartier appetites, the rotating paellas — featuring braised short rib, firewood roasted seafood, or asparagus — are slow-cooked and deeply flavorful. These show-stopping dishes take longer to prepare, so guests are encouraged to order early in their meal.
Dessert lovers shouldn’t miss the fan-favorite wong mango and the Basque cheesecake, which is soft, slightly tangy, and absolutely worth saving room for.
Craft Cocktails and Culinary Expertise
The cocktail program is an art form unto itself. Favorites include the Sirimiri and Say Cheese, alongside custom off-menu drinks crafted based on guests’ flavor preferences. Whether you prefer spirit-forward, citrusy, or totally unexpected libations, the skilled bartenders create memorable experiences. Mocktails and zero-proof options are also available and beautifully presented.
Leading the kitchen is Chef Matthew Crawford, an ingredient-driven chef with over 15 years of experience. With roots in California Modern cuisine and touches of New England influence from his time on Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard, Crawford brings deep respect for local, seasonal ingredients and open-fire cooking techniques. His passion for thoughtful, flavor-driven cooking shines through in every plate.
An Atmosphere That Welcomes
The space itself strikes the perfect balance — stylish without trying too hard, featuring warm tones, thoughtful details, and a welcoming hum of conversation. Indoor seating flows into a lively bar area and a cozy patio perfect for quieter evenings. The ambiance is chic but unpretentious, buzzy but not overwhelming — think San Sebastián meets Cedros Avenue.
Service That Elevates the Experience
What truly sets CTZN apart is the exceptional service. The knowledgeable, warm staff are genuinely excited to guide guests through the menu, customizing recommendations based on what’s already been ordered. The passion from both the team and owners Willy and Karine is palpable, transforming a great meal into a memorable experience.
Hours and Location
CTZN is open Tuesday through Saturday from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with Pintxo Hour available Tuesday through Friday from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The restaurant is conveniently located at 343 South Highway 101, Suite 110, in Solana Beach, with free covered parking making it easily accessible just off the 101.
Perfect for Every Occasion
Whether you’re planning a date night, group gathering, bar-side tapas session, or simply a stylish night out in Solana Beach, CTZN delivers an experience that’s ideal for sharing, passing plates, and going back for more.
Completing the Sandbox Solana Experience
CTZN joins Rustic Root and Morning Lavender as the latest addition to Sandbox Solana’s thoughtfully curated retail and dining collection. Together, these establishments create a vibrant destination where residents and visitors can enjoy diverse culinary experiences, all within steps of each other.
We’re incredibly proud to welcome CTZN to the Sandbox Solana family and invite everyone to discover why this Basque-inspired gem is already making waves in North County’s dining scene. For reservations and more information, visit ctzn-sd.com or follow @ctznsd on Instagram.
Here’s to bold flavors, warm hospitality, and unforgettable moments at CTZN!
