Urban Plates Opens New Location in La Jolla Village Square

Founded in 2011 by Saad Nadhir and John Zagara, fast-casual concept Urban Plateshas a flagship eatery in the Del Mar Highlands Shopping Center and an outpost in Carlsbad as well as six locations around Southern California. Its third in the San Diego area opened today in a 5,200-square-foot space in the La Jolla Village Square Shopping Center, which also includes a 2,200-square-foot patio.

Specializing in customizable plates of proteins, from grass fed steak to heritage Duroc pork ribs and turkey meatloaf, with seasonal sides, the menu is served cafeteria-style and also includes entree-sized salads, sandwiches, soups and more. The dessert program is a big feature, with 20 housemade sweets including the signature mango tart and beverages range from local craft beer to wine and kombucha on tap.

The concept is currently in growth mode in California, with locations under construction in Tustin and Thousand Oaks; a rep says the company is actively looking to expand in San Diego too, with particular interest in Mission Valley, Downtown, and the I-15 corridor.