Lodge Open House attracts hundreds

Hundreds piled into the remodeled Canyon Lake Lodge Friday night to celebrate its Grand Re-Opening and Open House. For the first time since it was shuttered to commence the construction last year, the doors to the Lighthouse Restaurant were opened to the public.

The Sunset Lounge & Terrace was completed a few weeks ago and has been open for service. It was the only source of served food at The Lodge until Friday’s opening of the Lighthouse Restaurant.

Although no Lighthouse Restaurant reservations were still available on Friday, the public was invited into the restaurant to view the extensive renovation work. The outdoor Terrace was hopping with entertainment, dancing and merry making. The Code 415 Band played for the crowd. Those lucky enough to have restaurant reservations gathered at their tables and enjoyed the new menu.

The doors flung open Friday night as visitors entered the renovated Canyon Lake Lodge during its Open House Friday night. Photo by Laura Flores

A “soft opening” took place at the Lighthouse Restaurant the night before where various dignitaries were invited to sample menu items and take in the new facility. Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco and his wife Denise joined the Canyon Lake POA Management Team and other invited guests.

The Canyon Lake Lodge renovation project began last year, resulting in the temporary relocation of many club events and meetings. The wait is over and the crown jewel of the project is the much-anticipated makeover of the Lighthouse Restaurant.

This project aimed to rejuvenate the Lodge’s facilities, with the restaurant’s revamp marking the project’s final phase. The renovation brought a fresh, modern look to the interior, incorporating elements that reflect the community’s lakeside lifestyle.

Those lucky enough to secure reservations Friday sit at renovated tables for dinner at the Lighthouse Restaurant during its Grand Re-Opening Open House Friday night. Photo by Aprile DeAnne McKinnon

The overhaul included updating the restaurant with contemporary design elements, local art, a new color scheme, modern furnishings, and an enhanced waiting area, all designed to offer a more inviting atmosphere for guests.

These changes were part of a broader $2.9 million Lodge Renovation Project, financed through the Repair & Replacement Reserve and Capital Improvement funds. This investment must be used to maintain and modernize the association’s amenities, thereby ensuring the enhancement of property values and keeping the community up-to-date.

The transformed Lighthouse Restaurant is a testament to the project’s success, offering residents and visitors a dining experience that mirrors the beauty and vibrancy of Canyon Lake. To witness the transformation, community members are encouraged to visit the Lodge and see the improvements firsthand.

The Sunset Lounge drew visitors who enjoyed drinks and appetizers at the Open House Friday night. Photo by Aprile DeAnne McKinnon

“We had a very successful soft opening on Thursday with only positive feedback,” Lodge Manager Laura Flores said. “We were excited because we were fully booked for the Grand Opening two weeks ago well before advertising went out.”

Laura also said the Grand Opening went off without a hitch and included all the amenities the restaurant offers, including wine service and tableside salad service.

“I couldn’t be more proud of the team that I have built in the last two years,” Laura said. “We all work together to provide the best guest service at the New Lodge. So many people have given such strong support to us and we are looking forward to what this year brings.”

The Lodge will be having Happy Hour from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. It is highly recommended that reservations be made in advance for the Lighthouse Restaurant dining room.