Owners Aaron and Lauren Crossland, along with their partners, envisioned a vibrant wine bar and bottle shop in South Oceanside, inspired by the charm of European spaces they had experienced while traveling. Merenda Wine Bar and Retail Shop draws its name from the Mediterranean tradition of "merenda," a snack shared among friends.
This vision was brought to life with a concept full of color, texture, and stories. A small patio leads to floor-to-ceiling handmade wine shelves set on a custom mosaic tile carpet. The European-inspired kitchen features a mural by artist Benoit Tardif, with hand-painted tiles from Portugal. Rustic plaster walls by artist Sasha Seyb and a hand-painted mural by local artist Peggy Night in the private dining room add character and electrify the space.
Eclectic vintage furnishings, unique lighting, and a striking scarlet marble bar on a terracotta checkered floor make the space feel like home away from home. Merenda is a place to unwind, make new friends, and enjoy exceptional wines—like a cozy, welcoming retreat right in the heart of South Oceanside.
Bio Bells + Whistles is a multidisciplinary interior design studio founded by Barbara Rourke and Jason St John. Originally created and established as a design build studio in San Diego California, the studio carved out a niche in the community for its early hand-built spaces that incorporate custom elements within furniture, lighting and sculptural installations. Now based in L.A., the studio provides a full design service that is centered in a narrative approach, specializing in creating bespoke interiors for hospitality and a select group of homeowners.
