Ongoing renovations of the beloved Slocum House restaurant at 7992 California Ave. in Fair Oaks Village will reflect modern touches with the classic characteristics that have made the Slocum House a historic and treasured local landmark. Photo by Thomas J. Sullivan

 

FAIR OAKS, CA (MPG) – The much-beloved Slocum House restaurant at 7992 California Ave. in Fair Oaks Village is under active renovation by owner Gary Juels, who admits completion isn’t a process which can be rushed.

“It’s been 11 years in the making,” Juels said. “The details matter, and they take time to be done absolutely right.”

Juels bought the former Slocum House in 2018. The historic hillside residential building, built in 1924 for local businessman Charles Slocum, operated as a restaurant from 1976 to 2011.

The interior of the restaurant is where the bulk of the refurbishment is taking place, Juels said.

His ongoing project is not changing the building’s structure, but is focused on significant tenant improvements, kitchen upgrades and revitalized landscaping.

“We’re not touching the structure at all,” he said. “The building is staying the same.”

Once considered one of the finest restaurants in the Sacramento area, the Slocum House drew crowds from all over the region for its high-end menu and ambiance.

The restaurant wove itself into the fabric of the community, becoming a place where memories were made and gatherings were celebrated.

“Quality takes time, balancing the scheduling and work of skilled crafts persons all working to revitalize the historic restaurant space, all while maintaining its historical integrity,” Juels said.

Juels, who has lived in Fair Oaks with his wife, Wei since 1995, opened the Fair Oaks Brew Pub at what once was a doctor’s office.

Ongoing renovations will reflect modern touches with the classic characteristics that have made the Slocum House a historic and treasured local landmark.

The renovation includes general upgrades to both interior spaces and the kitchen, ensuring that customers are treated to not only a cozy atmosphere but also exquisite culinary delights.

The restaurant plans to introduce a menu that highlights seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby farms. This farm-to-table approach not only supports local agriculture but also guarantees freshness, allowing patrons to savor the best of what Fair Oaks has to offer.

While heavy lifting has been finished, it’s the final details which has taken more time than anticipated to be completed, Juels said.

Outdoor dining will be a focal point, with a Sacramento County-approved construction permit for a new patio scheduled to start construction soon, he said.

The iconic establishment, widely recognized for its unique charm and rich history, had captivated the hearts of locals and visitors alike for years. And soon, a new chapter in its history will be written.

 As its grand reopening approaches, excitement among food enthusiasts and the Fair Oaks community continues to build with many asking how construction progress has been going, and when an opening date will be likely.

In addition to the farm-to-fork focused menu, the Slocum House is focusing on enhancing the overall dining experience. Guests can look forward to friendly service, a well-curated wine selection and possibly live entertainment to make each visit memorable.

Social media buzz and community chatter reflect a strong desire to return to one’s favorite dining spot. Many residents recall fond memories of family gatherings, anniversary celebrations and casual nights out all experienced through the years at the Slocum House.

Don’t miss the highly anticipated reopening of the Slocum House. The official date will be announced soon, and reservations are likely to fill up fast once they’re open to the public.

Dinner at Slocum House has always felt like coming home, and after this extensive restoration, it’s about to transform back into one of Fair Oaks favorite gathering spots.

Be ready to gather your loved ones and indulge in the remarkable offerings of this historic venue.