Inside the new Myrtle Boutique, Al Fresca Patio, Art of Life and Harlow's in Bonsall

While the closing of Myrtle Creek Botanical Gardens and Nursery in Fallbrook is a sad one for many locals, the opening of Trademark Venues’ new location at the old San Luis Rey Golf Club may ease the pain.

Walking onto the property, the overall feel of the property still reminds one of the old golf course, but upon entering the courtyard, visitors notice the foliage and displays that are so reminiscent of the old Myrtle Creek property.

Stepping into the Myrtle Boutique, it’s hard to remember that it used to be a pro shop back in the day, as it now is decorated in much the same way it was at Myrtle Creek. The shop is packed with much of the same items – plants, soaps and candles and gifts – that were featured in Fallbrook, including the popular Myrtle Creek jams and jellies and sauces.

“We’re still a work in progress,” Trademark Venues marketing director Kevin MacGregor said during a tour of the property.

The gift shop is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the winter, and hours will expand to 7 p.m. during the summer.

He walked us around the Al Fresca Patio, an outdoor seating area still cordoned off by the old golf bag racks where duffers would store their clubs before hitting the course, but now surrounded by farm tables and smaller tables that create quaint spots for dining. They will bring in heat lamps soon for colder days and the space will be used for wedding receptions as well.

Beyond the buildings now sits a “grassy spot” which is now artificial turf that overlooks the rest of the former golf course which MacGregor said will be used for events on the property.

There are long, custom farm tables as well, meant to accommodate large groups.

MacGregor said the property is a work in progress, of course, but they wanted to show the community gratitude for welcoming them into the space.

“It’s nothing to rush, we just wanted to set a solid foundation,” he said.

Moving onto Harlow’s Cocktails, Bar and Restaurant, MacGregor stopped to show off the reception area for the soon-to-be-completed Art of Life Hotel, Weddings and Events. Not open yet, the concierge area is just left of the restaurant’s front door.

“When we took over this property, I’m sure you know that portions of the buildings were disused for four or five years,” MacGregor said. “They just need a little more time and love.”

The final touches are being put on the 26-room hotel as well, and MacGregor promised an inside look to the Village News before it opens for business.

Stepping into Harlow’s, one is immediately struck by the unique design of the facility. While the name implies a Roaring Twenties’ theme, the pieces included and the design of the restaurant aren’t overly kitschy.

Everywhere you look are vintage print pieces, unique antique pieces, including bronze vintage cash registers and seating arrangements.

The bar area seems unchanged from when the spot served as the 19th hole for many golfers in the area. Except when you take a closer look and notice the repairs and improvements made throughout.

The bartenders wear understated period-style clothing with vests and Irish flat caps while serving up a wide array of cocktails as well as standard bar fare.

“We kept the bar the same, of course; it’s so classic,” MacGregor said.

There is also a bakery inside the building that will sell treats during operating hours.

Bar seating is plentiful and separated from the formal dining area by a large built-in wall. Comfortable low chairs and tables, where guests can also have dinner, sit in front of a slatted wood wall with a simple vintage television showing old television shows.

The space in front of the wall will also be used when they have live music on the property, which will help project the sound into the bar and restaurant and away from neighbors.

If visitors look close enough, they can find old pieces leftover from the old San Luis Rey Downs Golf Club days placed strategically around the bar and restaurant.

When dining, check in with a host just inside the front doors. The restaurant is beautifully designed to accommodate groups as well as couples. Tables line the windows that overlook the open space, and there are booths nicely placed throughout to provide a sense of privacy while dining.

There is also a separate room with a long table available for private events and celebrations.

“We’re just trying to pay homage to what this place used to be, while just kind of revitalizing it a little bit,” MacGregor said.

MacGregor said the design team took great care to produce something truly unique to the area while not venturing too far from the location’s roots.

“The community has been super grateful and excited,” he said. “The neighbors keep coming even just for a drink – but we already have regulars – some people have been like six, seven, nine times already.”

However, MacGregor said, the golf carts that would have been seen parked outside maybe 10 years ago are not back.

“But we’ve been welcomed with open arms,” he said. “People are just excited that this disused place is now something that is beautiful, a fun place to be. The food is phenomenal.”

MacGregor said the restaurant was full Friday and Saturday nights, even though they weren’t officially open.

“We didn’t really announce the opening, people just kind of came,” he said. “The response has just been incredible.”

Harlow’s Cocktails, Bar and Restaurant is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily and from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sundays. Reservations are encouraged by calling (760) 871-4564.

The entire facility is located at 31474 Golf Club Drive in Bonsall.

Jeff Pack can be reached by email at [email protected].