Chef Alex Carballo, known for his roles as former Executive Chef at Stone Brewing Co. and chef/partner at URBN Brewing in El Cajon, along with local entrepreneur Mario Warman, are gearing up to open a motorcycle-inspired sandwich shop in the heart of Encinitas. The duo have acquired the lease to a 1,200 square foot property at 810 North Coast Highway 101 to open Moto Deli, set to debut in the beginning of 2016. Drawing on the trademark outdoor lifestyle synonymous with Encinitas, Moto Deli inspires to be a hub for the active community to congregate and connect with chef-driven deli fare made entirely from scratch, local craft beer and close proximity to beaches.
Mario Warman, a global traveler and motorcycle enthusiast with a passion for food, will manifest his experiences with the opening of Moto Deli. Moto Deli will be housed in a 1927 building, which was formerly home to iconic Leucadia neighborhood go-to, Sub Palace. The design will feature many of the original architectural details such as original redwood, new concrete walls and touches of steel, while invoking the nostalgia of an authentic mechanic shop - a nod to Warman’s love for motorcycles.
“We want to celebrate the long history of this established deli location and update it to emphasize our appreciation for gourmet cuisine. We are so excited to share our passions with the local community - it’s a place where the Moto lifestyle will converge with good beer and even better sandwiches,” says Mario. The motorcycle theme continues with the eatery’s convenient scooter delivery service that will bring fresh, artisan sandwiches direct to North County doorsteps.
With a fresh take on classic deli fare, Moto Deli’s sandwiches will feature wholesome ingredients and hearty portions - a menu that has been created by the restaurant’s talented Executive Chef & Partner, Alex Carballo.
“Everything we’re doing is from scratch. We’re essentially bringing together all of the elements you love about fine dining in an approachable application,” says Carballo. “We’re making our own bread, roasting and smoking meats daily, crafting charcuterie and sourcing fresh local fish and produce.” The sandwich lineup will be complemented by all house made kettle chips, jarred condiments, sauces, pickles and more.
Nationally respected as of one of Restaurant Hospitality Magazine’s “12 to watch in 2012”, Alex Carballo has been noted in top industry publications such as Food & Wine, Sunset Magazine and Draft Magazine. Chef Alex manned the helm in some of San Diego’s most prestigious kitchens (Crosby Country Club, Indigo Grill, Brigantine and The Fishery), but it was his five-year stint as General Manager/Executive Chef at Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens in Escondido that earned his regional acclaim. Carballo is also currently a partner at the El Cajon brewery and restaurant, URBN Brewing.
The anticipated opening for Moto Deli is January 2016. For more information, visit motodeli.com.
