Old Bay Steamer

Originally opened as Café Capisce and inspired by the owner’s Italian travels and Sarah’s studies abroad, this 12,000 square foot restaurant and bar has since been converted to a local seafood operator, offering a fresh, coastal dining experience rooted in the flavors of the region.

Designed with both form and function in mind, the space includes a fully outfitted, high-capacity kitchen to support a robust seafood menu, along with an upstairs bar that provides a relaxed, elevated atmosphere. An elevator connects both levels, ensuring accessibility for all guests.

Given its coastal location, the building was constructed in 2001 with durable, storm-resistant materials—purposefully selected to withstand the hurricanes that are common to the area. This resilience was a key focus of the architectural approach, ensuring long-term performance without sacrificing style, which has remained as originally designed.

An innovative parking strategy was also developed to meet the requirements for the restaurant’s liquor license, showcasing creative problem-solving and a deep understanding of regulatory challenges.

Now a vibrant part of the local dining scene, this project exemplifies adaptive design, coastal resilience, and hospitality-forward thinking.