Practice makes Prospect - Market Snapshot of Prospect Street in La Jolla

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With all the controversy in the local climate regarding the ever prevalent issue of parking in La Jolla Village, one might conclude there have been better days to open a new business "proper." Despite such negativity, faith in the field of dreams mantra, "If you build it they will come," keeps entrepreneurialism alive and well in the Jewel.

Above The Spot, 1025 Prospect has been a revolving door for years. A new restaurant seemingly every 6 months is perhaps satisfactory evidence for the risk adverse to avoid the location with the poor track record.

The alternative to that continuum is the success of current owners to Bamboo. The newly redesigned sushi restaurant and bar staked prime real estate with sit down, panoramic views of the cove in all her glory. This new perch is an attractive respite for villagers and vacationers alike.

Paul and Celeste Johnson are husband and wife team of Sushi on the Rock with a trio of successful locations inclusive of Sushi on the Rock on Girard and Forum Shopping Center in Carlsbad, and now Bamboo at Prospect. Sophisticated streamlined style with a vintage spin, game day action, attractive prices and assortment of food and drink seeds well for Bamboo to bloom where planted.

Apart from the mighty views of the Cove via bar stools from Bamboo, one can not help to notice across the street the captivating art displayed by such up and coming artists as the noteworthy Canadian James Verbicky, who will have his show at The Madison Art Gallery, 1020 Prospect Street on January 25 and 26, 2008. Using infinite expanses of layered color, texture, and subtle symbolism, Verbicky's work is unrestrained and evocative. Largely a dedicated self-taught painter, Verbicky's inspiration is spontaneity.

The gallery, recently opened by Lorna York, uncovers artists whose high-end original pieces range from complex, narrative-driven, figurative works to extremes of meditative minimalism presenting them in her highly theatrical 3,500-square-foot ocean view gallery. Madison is also featuring the work of other well known artists such as Hank Garcia, Jamali, and Kazandijan. Kathy Ast, gallery manager is the contact to get on the list and for more information.

Adjacent to Bamboo in the previous Excelsior Brasserie location, is the new and more user friendly theme called Prospect Bar and Grill. Again, views are as lucid of the Cove as they are on the plasma screen TVs which deck the walls of this scene - more relaxed than its predecessor. Offering competitive prices, great food and happy hour specials, this is game day hard copy for the Cove.

Village based M2, otherwise known as Marengo and Morton Architects, local artisans of many revived and resurrected La Jolla land and seascapes are redesigning the well remembered Top of the Cove, restaurant just a few steps from George's at the Cove, the long standing Prospect monopoly on sip and sea. EnDev Group, of Stingaree, Side Bar, Bar West, and more, will offer a new concept oceanfront restaurant and bar which is anxiously anticipated. The detailed project involving the coastal commission stymies an exact timeline. The design concept for EnDev is stark, sleek, sophisticated, and always sexy. La Jollans are looking forward to having an additional venue for like minded locals left yawning from lack of options.

Vigillucci's is bringing his success down south from North County with the acquisition and opening of his new space - Vigilucci's Seafood, Steak & Chop House - previously occupied by Brett Miller - Tower 23, Moondoggies and Gringo's owner - located at 909 Prospect next to Hard Rock Café. Vigillucci's, like Sushi on the Rock, has experienced much success from his first location in Encinitas in 1994, and 5 others following with La Jolla making seven.

Robbie Vigullucci moved to San Diego from Milan, Italy 21 years ago and since then has remained ecstatic to offer the best possible prime beef and seafood in the most attractive locations, all with his own "Italian flair." Vigillucci's is underway getting the permit finalized to offer valet on Prospect. Until then, enjoy a dessert is on Vigillucci's with mention of this article.

Jennifer Duaine, concept owner and designer of WindNSeaProperties.com, has recently moved her marketing and real estate services to the perfectly situated and stylishly adorned office across the street and in between Hard Rock Café and Ropponggi on the west side of Prospect. Moving from RE/MAX at 828 to 864 Prospect Street, All San Diego Realty gives Duaine a more boutique atmosphere.

Owners of All San Diego Realty, Steven and Tony Swilley-Francoeur continue to make headway representing and locating superior offerings in a challenging, competitive marketplace. Steven and Tony remain grateful and responsive to new relationships and opportunities in their business and community. Offering frank, candid, no nonsense marketing advice with a strong eye for design, quality, and style, this was a natural connection and association for Duaine.