Hello Back Bay Bam-bams, happy Friday!

We aren’t sure exactly how or when Mother’s Day Sunday Brunch became a non-negotiable outing but we do know it is not going anywhere. The Open Table data shows reservations for 11-2 at nearly every spot you would like to go is non-existent for the past week. We hope you were more prepared than our editor. Oddly enough, The Country Club on 17th was wide open, if you don’t want to roll the dice on a walk-in (and you don’t have any kid’s in tow [it’s 21+]) it’s a solid option.

To our new readers—welcome! The Back Bay Buzz delivers just the right amount of news and events for locals in Newport Beach and Costa Mesa. No crime, no politics, no spam—just the good stuff. We scan newspapers, blogs, social media, business journals, and Google alerts so you don’t have to.

In today’s Buzz:

— Jon Dougher, Publisher, Back Bay Buzz

For the past decade, The Country Club has been a cornerstone of Costa Mesa’s vibrant 17th Street corridor. Known for its sophisticated scratch kitchen, craft cocktails, live music, and strict 21+ door policy, it has been a premier nightlife and dining destination in Orange County. But the beloved local hotspot has announced a major pivot: it will be closing its doors to undergo a complete transformation into a new, family-friendly venue.

In a recent press release, the restaurant's ownership team expressed their deep gratitude for the community's support over the years but noted that their historic liquor license, which restricted their clientele to those 21 and over, no longer fit their vision for the future. As they move into their next chapter, they will be transitioning to an all-ages license to welcome families and create a more inclusive experience.

Because of this dramatic shift, The Country Club will be temporarily closing to build out a brand-new concept. This address holds a rich legacy in Costa Mesa; before its elegant remodel into The Country Club (which beautifully preserved the building's iconic A-frame roofline), the location famously housed the legendary Pierce Street Annex for decades, serving as one of Orange County's oldest drinking and entertainment establishments.

While the venue as we currently know it is bidding us farewell, the team is making sure to go out with a bang. The Country Club's final day of service will be this Sunday, May 10, on Mother's Day. The owners are inviting all longtime friends, valued guests, and locals to stop by this weekend to celebrate the incredible memories made over the years. Whether you've enjoyed a Tomahawk steak in one of their cozy leather booths, danced near the stage, or enjoyed a drink under the retractable patio roof, this is your last chance to say cheers to The Country Club.

As the ownership team perfectly put it: "This isn’t goodbye forever, just a pause as we prepare for what’s next." Be sure to drop by before Sunday to raise a glass to an incredible run—and stay tuned to see what exciting new family-friendly spot will be taking its place on 17th Street!

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🌊 Water temp = 65º
Suit Rec: Spring suit/Full suit 3/2

Thanks! Please ignore any typos, our editor didnt make a reservation in time and now has take mother to brunch in, his words, “South America” (it’s Dana Point).

PS: Feel free to let me know any feedback or inside scoops you have for the newsletter. Just reply to this email, I read every one. Thanks!