Herb & Wood Heading Up the Coast to Encinitas With Herb & Sea

On the heels of announcing the conception of Animae, a new Asian restaurant slated to open downtown by the end of the year, Herb & Wood creators Puffer Malarkey Restaurants are revealing that it will give a new North County sibling to its first-born Little Italy restaurant. Scheduled to debut by Early 2019, Herb & Sea is moving into a 6,500-square-foot building on D Street just off Highway 101 in downtown Encinitas.

The team will be thoroughly remodeling the art deco-styled building, which is in much need of repair. Co-founder Christopher Puffer shared, “We want to bring the building back to its original glory and give Encinitas a dining venue they will be proud to have in their community.” With a design inspired by one of Puffer’s favorite childhood spots, the historic Pemaquid Point Lighthouse in Maine, the restaurant is aiming for an atmosphere that combines a coastal fine dining experience with a friendly neighborhood vibe.

As the name suggests, Herb & Sea will have a significant focus on seafood. A reflection of co-founder/executive chef Brian Marlarkey’s affinity for the ocean, fishing and surfing, the restaurant will feature a custom oyster bar and a range of raw seafood. The menu will be rounded out by dishes familiar to those who have dined at Herb & Wood, including plates based on wood-fired cookery as well as housemade pasta, pizza and desserts.

Next Wave Commercial’s Nate Benedetto represented Puffer Malarkey Restaurants in the transaction and Urban Strategies Group’s Michael Burton and Alex Drecksel represented the landlord. Drexel said, “This prime location had many interested parties, but Herb & Sea represented an amazing use for the community by a pair of the best operators in the region.”