Broad Street Oyster Co, the pandemic-era passion project from founder Christopher Tompkins, is set to take over the former Ruby’s Diner on the Huntington Beach Pier, according to multiple signage permits recently filed with the city.
When contacted for comment by What Now Orange County, Tompkins was traveling, but did take time to say, “We’re beyond excited about the project,” and that the team is, “hoping for a July opening.”
News of the opening was first reported by Eater LA.
Broad Street Oyster Co. truly broke onto the scene during the pandemic, when Tompkins turned a nomadic, seafood-centric raw bar pop-up concept into what was supposed to be a brick-and-mortar pop-up space in Malibu. However, as luck would have it, business operations were conducive to social distancing protocols, effectively launching Broad Street Oyster Co. into seafood fame and solidifying Tompkins’ place in LA’s culinary map.
Today, the brand operates its flagship location in Malibu, with additional outposts in Santa Barbara, Grand Central Market, and a stall at downtown LA’s Smogarsburg, as well as a Broad Street Coffee Co in Malibu and a forthcoming spot further north in San Francisco.
The menu still features the raw bar that helped Tompkins get his start, as well as a signature Lobster Roll served chilled or warmed, Baja tacos, Fish & Chips, Clam Chowder, a Fried Shrimp sharable, and more.
