To understand Tom Ham’s Lighthouse history, look back to January 1971. A vintage newspaper clipping from that time shows Tom Ham standing outside his soon-to-open restaurant on Harbor Island. The article described the 20,000-square-foot restaurant as another waterfront landmark in San Diego, just a few hundred yards by water from his already-famous Bali Hai on Shelter Island. More than five decades later, Tom Ham’s Lighthouse remains on Harbor Island, and the family behind it is still running the business.
A Multigenerational Family Business
The Baumann family has been part of San Diego’s restaurant community for more than 70 years, including more than five decades with Tom Ham’s Lighthouse. What began with Tom Ham has become a multigenerational family business.
Today, Tom Ham’s grandson, Andy Baumann, serves as general manager. The third generation continues in leadership roles, while members of the fourth generation are already working in the restaurants, from the kitchen to the host stand.
That connection between the past and present is one of the things that makes Tom Ham’s Lighthouse history worth remembering. This isn’t simply a restaurant that has stayed open for 55 years. The family that helped build it is still directly involved.
Roots in San Diego’s Restaurant Scene and the 1971 Opening
The family’s restaurant history also includes Bali Hai, which Tom Ham took over in the 1950s. Over the years, the Baumanns have also been active in San Diego’s restaurant industry and in organizations that support independent restaurants and small businesses.
The 1971 newspaper article offers a glimpse into just how ambitious Tom Ham’s Lighthouse was from the beginning. The planned opening included a benefit for Children’s Hospital and entertainment from performers including Nancy Wilson and O.C. Smith.
Today, the Harbor Island restaurant is celebrating 55 years, while continuing Tom Ham’s Lighthouse history that started in 1971.
Celebrating 55 Years
The anniversary will be marked with a public party on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, from 6 to 10 p.m. Tickets are $80 and include seafood and oyster stations, chef action stations, throwback Tom Ham’s favorites, current dishes, live entertainment from The Class Band, a first drink, and a champagne toast.
Guests will also receive a commemorative Horn of Plenty mug, inspired by the vintage cocktail mugs used at Tom Ham’s decades ago, while supplies last. A lovely way to celebrate Tom Ham’s Lighthouse history.
FAQ's
How long has Tom Ham’s Lighthouse been in San Diego?
Tom Ham’s Lighthouse opened on Harbor Island in 1971 and is celebrating its 55th anniversary in 2026. The restaurant was created by San Diego restaurateur Tom Ham and has remained a family business for generations.
Who owns Tom Ham’s Lighthouse?
Tom Ham’s Lighthouse remains family-owned and operated. Tom Ham’s daughter, Susie Baumann, serves as CEO, while his grandsons have held leadership and general manager roles. The Baumann family has continued Tom Ham’s Lighthouse history for more than five decades.
Why is Tom Ham’s Lighthouse called a lighthouse?
The restaurant was built around a functioning U.S. Coast Guard navigational beacon. Tom Ham incorporated the beacon into the restaurant’s design after visiting lighthouses along the East Coast and purchasing a fog bell. The restaurant still features USCG Beacon #9 today.
What kind of food does Tom Ham’s Lighthouse serve?
Tom Ham’s Lighthouse specializes in fresh seafood and California-inspired cuisine. The current menu includes oysters, lobster, mussels, shrimp, fish, cioppino and other seafood dishes, along with meat and vegetarian options. Menus change regularly based on seasonal ingredients.
Does Tom Ham’s Lighthouse have brunch?
Yes. Tom Ham’s Lighthouse serves Sunday brunch from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The restaurant has a long history with brunch, which it introduced in the 1980s and made an important part of its business.
