The Blind Pig is Coming—With Music, Booze

By Martin Henderson

The Blind Pig will have music and hard liquor. 

That was the determination Wednesday by the planning commission of Rancho Santa Margarita.

The commission was primarily concerned the new The Blind Pig Kitchen and Bar in Mercado del Lago—in the space formerly occupied by Wings Brew Bar and Grill—would create a noise issue because of its request to feature live entertainment Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, and Saturday and Sunday during brunch.

But the owner of The Blind Pig, Vince Monaco, assured the four commissioners—Kent Hayden was absent—that noise wouldn't be an issue because the only featured entertainment would be acoustic guitar music that was not amplified, and singing that didn't include a microphone.

Additionally, noise and blackout curtains would be in use to further inhibit the sound coming from a 50 square-foot corner of the restaurant, which will be prohibition-themed and give RSM residents additional late-night dining options: It will be open until 1 a.m. every night but Sunday, when it closes at midnight.

According to Monaco, the fare will be "new American fusion, eclectic-type stuff," and will have a menu available until midnight. 

The commission also approved the sale of beer, wine and distilled spirits for on-site consumption. The other restaurant in the center with a Type 47 license—designated to include the sale of distilled spirits—is Carmelita's. 

The Blind Pig advertises itself as "swine dining and craft cocktails."

Construction on the remodel is under way and Monaco hopes to open by July 4 to take advantage of the crowds for fireworks, but admitted that is an optimistic goal.