The team behind Best Pizza & Brew is already preparing for a big year, starting with a new location and acquiring another concept in Pacific Beach, located at 1466 Garnet Avenue.
Previously, What Now San Diego reported on Best Pizza & Brew opening a new location in Clairemont Mesa at 4441 Genesee Avenue, but that’s just the beginning for the company to start 2025. This Clairemont location has faced several delays, but the team is officially preparing to open this restaurant next week. After this, the team, which includes founders John Freis, Charlie Muirhead, Kelly Bowie, and Angela Montion, plus operators Joey Freis and Mitchell Millar, will focus their attention on a new venture: the acquisition of Sandbox Pizza in Pacific Beach, first reported by SanDiegoVille. Joey Freis confirms with What Now and says they will take over on May 1.
Founded by The Tipsy Crow owner Randy Martin, Sandbox Pizza opened in 2013 before being relocated from its original Grand Avenue spot to a larger Garnet Avenue unit at 1466 Garnet Avenue in June 2021. Best Pizza & Brew, on the other hand, launched in Mira Mesa in 2013 and has grown throughout San Diego with locations in Cardiff, Carmel Mountain, Oceanside, Mira Mesa, Vista, Snapdragon Stadium, Escondido, and Murrieta. While the new ownership doesn’t plan on making any significant changes, they say they will retain the Sandbox name while planning to revamp the menu with a touch of Best Pizza flair and new offerings. Best Pizza & Brew serves appetizers, salads, sandwiches, burgers, pizzas by the slice or whole pie, desserts, and plenty of beers.
“We plan to keep it operating as Sandbox Pizza, continuing the laid-back, beachside vibe that locals and visitors love. Freis tells SanDiegoVille. “We’re big fans of what Sandbox has built, and our focus is on supporting the team, maintaining the community feel, and making small improvements where needed to enhance the overall guest experience. We’re aiming for a smooth transition with no closure at all. We’re looking forward to becoming a part of the PB community and building on what’s already a great neighborhood spot.”
