Skyloft restaurant to open in Heisler building

Sam Goldstein, owner of downtown Laguna Beach’s Heisler building, has found a tenant for the second-floor space formerly occupied by Rock ‘N Fish: Skyloft, another restaurant of Mozambique owner Ivan Spiers.

Rock ‘N Fish closed in November after four years. The space has been vacant since, as plans progressed on creating a rooftop deck on the third floor for patrons. Tommy Bahama occupies the first floor.

The South Coast Highway landmark appealed to Spiers, who wants to offer amenities similar to those at Mozambique — a rooftop deck with ocean views and live music, Skyloft spokeswoman Jennifer Morris said.

Skyloft’s proposed menu includes smokehouse wings, ceviche, tri-tip salad, brisket, baby back ribs, fried chicken and smoked or grilled salmon. Sides could include baked beans, cole slaw and roasted garlic mashed potatoes.

Sports fans will be able to watch games on flat-screen televisions, and craft beers and coastal wines will be available.

“You can come in for a sandwich and a beer or a steak dinner,” Morris said. “There is something for everyone.”

Owners are finalizing the menu and searching for an executive chef, she said.

Morris said the goal is to open in mid-October, but November is more likely. Skyloft will offer 228 indoor seats and 96 on the deck.

Goldstein noticed certain qualities in Spiers that make him a fit for his building.

“He takes care of guests and is an intelligent, hard-working man,” Goldstein said. “We haven’t had one disagreement. He does what he says he is going to do.”