Welcome to Crosswinds!

Crosswinds is included in the

Arcata Victorian Building Tour Site #9

  In addition to the extensive menu, Crosswinds can be appreciated for its long history and elaborate architectural design. The old Victorian house was originally constructed in 1876. A lumberman from Canada, James Kirk, later remodeled the residence in 1902 and in 1916 the house was purchased by a local dentist. During this time, transportation had linked the city of Arcata with areas further inland from the coast. However, it was still a long difficult trip and patients from the mountains were frequently put up for the night by the dentist and his wife. In 1957, Ben Freuerwerker converted the house into the Towers Restaurant, which was later followed by the establishment of the present-day Crosswinds Restaurant in 1986. The ornate detail and decor of this historic house has been preserved over the years adding a unique charm to the restaurant. The conical roofs of the round tower and turret are trimmed with ornamental fish-scale shingles, which also cover the second floor exteriors, while the first floor has square shingles in an offset pattern. Tiny dentil (tooth-like) trim is used extensively and an intricate border of raised floral design can be found below the porch roof. The rounded bay is flanked by pairs of columns that support a pediment at the entrance. Borders of small panes in geometric patterns create a dramatic look to the windows, especially those centering the slant bays. Peculiarly impressive are the arched second floor windows and the hat like cornices they wear. In addition, both the tower and turret windows are comprised of carved glass, the only examples in Arcata of such elegance. So while dining at Crosswinds Restaurant, please enjoy not only the food but also the timeless architecture and craftsmanship of this historic house.