Winstons Ownership Shifted in Ocean Beach
The longstanding San Diego music venue will undergo a rebrand and add a full-service kitchen under new management.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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Scott Slaga has acquired full ownership of the Ocean Beach landmark Winstons from co-owners Michael S. Stifano and Edward William Wigler. The venue will transition to new management and expand its operations to include a kitchen while removing nightly cover charges.
Why it matters
The changes respond to a struggling live-music business climate where rising touring expenses have made hosting national acts more difficult. By shifting focus to local talent and daily dining, the venue aims to stabilize its long-term operations.
Winstons has served the Ocean Beach community for 39 years and maintains a maximum capacity of 198 patrons. The venue plans to operate from noon until 2 a.m. seven days a week under new leadership.
The players
Scott Slaga
He is the lead owner of Winstons and previously co-owned the 710 Beach Club.
Brandon Colt
He is the newly appointed general manager tasked with overseeing the venue transition.
Michael S. Stifano
He is a former co-owner of the venue who sold his stake to Slaga.
Edward William Wigler
He is a former co-owner who concluded his partnership in the venue alongside Stifano.
The details
New general manager Brandon Colt will oversee the installation of upgraded audio and lighting systems while bringing in talent and food managers from the 710 Beach Club. The venue will feature electronica and dance DJ performances on Wednesdays and Saturdays as it pivots to a locally focused music schedule.
Timeline
Winstons has operated in Ocean Beach for 39 years.
A Last Call send-off party is scheduled for Saturday, September 26, 2026.
The rebranding process will begin next week.
The new venue name is expected to be announced Wednesday, September 30, 2026.
Market Landscape
The transition reflects a broader shift in the regional music scene as historic venues adapt to the post-2020 contraction of the independent live-music industry. By diversifying into food service and prioritizing local talent, the venue aligns with strategies used by other independent clubs to maintain viability.
Patrons can expect the elimination of nightly cover charges and the addition of a full-service kitchen under the new management. The venue will maintain consistent daily hours from noon until 2 a.m. for those seeking local music and dining options.
The takeaway
Smaller music venues are increasingly pivoting toward multi-use models like integrated dining to remain solvent in a challenging economic landscape. This operational shift demonstrates how local cultural institutions are evolving to survive without relying solely on national touring acts.
What happens next
The venue will host a Last Call party on Saturday, September 26, 2026, followed by an official name announcement on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.
Further reading
For more information on local business shifts, visit the San Diego Openings & Closings section.
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