It’s a little surreal to be in the same bar where my favorite TV show takes place! I’m looking around and can definitely recognize some elements but – wow! – how did they transform Fishy Fishy into Porter’s Stowaway Tavern? What were some of the biggest changes they made?
I was in the early stages of a full renovation, using bright and cheerful colors, and had just completed our main bar and dining area which became Porter’s Stowaway. The dark tavern colors and nautical antiques were quite the contrast to my color pallet!
Have you kept any of those changes?
We would have liked to keep some of the props but everything was shipped to Hollywood for the set that was built there once ABC picked up the series.
What was everyone’s reaction when you all found out they wanted to use Fishy Fishy for this new series?
Once we came to the location terms, it was announced to the staff. Everyone was really excited, and several were even used as extras.
What was your reaction when you actually watched the show?
Wow! I have watched it numerous times and still do. It was amazing to see the transformation with hints of Fishy Fishy and my exterior colors on national TV. It was very obvious to all who know us and our beautiful waterside setting on the Yacht Basin in Southport, North Carolina!
Can you share any interesting stories from the shoot?
The entire process was fascinating. I loved witnessing firsthand all that goes on behind the scenes from start to finish. The cash and crew had long filming days and nights, not only at Fishy Fishy Cafe and on our docks where the “Amanda” was docked, but in and around Southport and Oak Island. There was great “stargazing” too!
Revenge is pretty dramatic, and lots of the action occurs at the Stowaway. What’s the most dramatic thing that’s ever happened at Fishy Fishy?
No drama here, whew! We pride ourselves as being Southport’s Cheers, where the locals come for a good time. It’s also a really happy place for tourists to experience.
Did you get to spend any time with the cast?
We loved having them on site at Fishy Fishy, but it was all business for the cast, being shuttled to the various set locations.
Whenever I mention to anyone that I went to Southport, the first thing they do is ask whether I ate at Fishy Fishy (which I did twice in two days, by the way!). What do you think makes it so popular?
It’s our ambience. Lois, you’ve experienced it, so you know what I mean. Your readers can check it out on our HD Webcam which pans the Yacht Basin.
Do you have a bartender as cute as Jack Porter?
Oh, yeah, several! Come and meet them yourself – I’ll introduce you!
Has Fishy Fishy been featured in any other movies or TV shows?
I Know What You Did Last Summer in 1997.
Any on your wish list?
We are open to — and would welcome — any filming that fits our venue. Wilmington has quickly become the “Hollywood of the East,” with numerous TV shows and movies filmed and currently in production in and around our area. I hope your readers will come visit and see why!
I just took a fun (webcam) tour of Southport, North Carolina. That was fun! Another good interview, Lois! :0)
had planned a trip to Myrtle beach for Labor Day….cancelled, I decided to go somewhere else, oak island, nc..”….wow, a week before we leave I found out that alot of revenge was filmed here…..the house where Emily lives…..a housing area called The Landing…..fishy fishy…absolute best places for margaritas…..love the bartender there…it is hard to believe looking around the changes the crew made to get this place ready for filming..”coming back soon……so love Southport! Best trip ever!
We visit Fishy, Fishy Café every spring while on vacation to the area. Good food and great ambiance. at the waterfront. It’s exciting to see our favoriy=te vacation restaurant on a major TV series.