Pacifica Del Mar launches interactive ‘iMenu’

By Claire Harlin

editor@delmartimes.net

Pacifica Del Mar has embarked on a new technology that could be the next restaurant standard — interactive, touchscreen bar menus.

The restaurant launched an iPad system last month in its Ocean Bar, which opened exactly a year ago and is known for its repertoire of more than 200 vodkas. With a selection of that magnitude, owner Kipp Downing saw a need to organize that information and offer it at guests’ fingertips. The new device, which looks like a menu and opens to reveal a touch screen, lets guests browse and search the more than 400 total bar drinks. Not only can the user search by region or flavor, but the can also get pairing suggestion. Each beverage comes complete with photos, a full description and even an option to email or share the selection on Facebook, while “checking in” to the restaurant.

Partner and general manager Chris Idso said the new electronic menu has intrigued guests and gotten them out of the comfort zone of what they normally order. He has also seen an increase in bar sales since the June 6 launch of the technology.

Pacifica Del Mar, located at 1555 Camino Del Mar in Del Mar, offers $7 vodkas all the time and half price wine on Thursdays. Visit www.pacificadelmar.com.