Tavern at the Mission, formerly Cedar Creek Inn, has finished its renovations, offering guests a contemporary new vibe that pays homage to San Juan Capistrano’s equestrian and Western heritage. Both the restaurant and its lounge area, the newly christened Tumbleweed Bar, feature a modern look with gray and cream paint, wood and bovine accents.
The updated dining areas feature dark wood flooring, cream- and gray-hued color walls (meant to reflect the historic Mission directly across the street), black and gold leaf wall sconces, a plastered fireplace with a reclaimed-wood mantel and smoked Italian-framed mirrors. Large 1940s-era circular brass and glass chandeliers, felt cowboys hats affixed to the wall, a steer horn above the fireplace mantle and leather-and-gingham upholstered chairs give the space a neo-Western look.
The bar’s name comes from its four illuminated tumbleweed-like chandeliers, created by Jennifer Isbell, a Mojave Desert-based artist. The refurbished bar also features a black granite slabbed bar top. Adding to the cozy atmosphere are the round-back booth seats and olive trees and topiaries scattered throughout.
Black and gold leaf sconces and smoked mirrors inside Tavern at the Mission. (Photo by Marie Westphal Morales, courtesy of Tavern at the Mission)
“Redesigning Tavern at the Mission and the new Tumbleweed Bar was really a labor of love for all of us,” said restauranteur David Wilhelm, who, along with partner Gregg Solomon, bought the 25-year-old Cedar Creek Inn in June 2023. “Our primary goal was to create a community gathering spot, with a welcoming ambiance that reflected the rich history of San Juan Capistrano where guests can savor exceptional cuisine. The new Tavern at the Mission is more than just a place to dine or enjoy a cocktail — it’s a destination where memories are made, stories are shared, and friendships are forged.”
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Wilhelm created and operated a handful of noted Southern California restaurants, including French 75, Chat Noir, Savannah Chop House and Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern, to name a few.
SEE ALSO: Gregorys Coffee to open first West Coast location in OC
The revamped dining spot in the heart of San Juan Capistrano, located directly across from the Mission, will feature three new menu items: a western ranch salad (featuring barbecue chicken, corn, avocado, bacon, blue cheese, tomatoes, ranch dressing and corn chip crunch) a Mediterranean salad (chicken, salami, olives, fontina, garbanzos, tomatoes, onions, pepperoncini, Italian vinaigrette) and the cowboy burger (cheddar, bacon, green chile, barbecue sauce and crispy onions).
The cowboy burger is topped with cheddar, bacon, green chile, barbecue sauce and crispy onions. (Photo by Marie Westphal Morales, courtesy of Tavern at the Mission)
Tavern at the Mission has remained open during the renovation. To celebrate its redesign, the restaurant will host a fundraiser for J.F Shea Therapeutic Riding Center on Thursday, May 16, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., featuring passed appetizers, wine and specialty cocktails. All proceeds will go to the support the nonprofit’s mission to serve people with disabilities who benefit from therapeutic riding and horse-related activities. Tickets for the event can be purchased via Eventbrite.
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