Project 'Malarkey'

The story straight from the horse’s mouth — or, as some of my “friends” might like to say, straight from the painted zebras of TJ’s backside

The rumors are finally confirmed. I have left the Oceanaire, after five great years, in the very capable hands of Sean Langlais and the crew we put together over the years. I don’t imagine they'll miss a step in their everyday pursuit of excellence. The Oceanaire San Diego family will always hold a warm spot in my heart!

It was time for me to set out on my own adventure, and I contacted my good friend James Brennan. We were fortunate enough to get a deal we were happy with at one of the Gaslamp’s finest locations Fifth and Market, the current site of the Z Gallerie. Now with the team coming together and the location secured, we embark on giving birth to what we hope and believe will be one of the most exciting dining destinations in a city with ample opportunities for dining. I have heard time and time again from family and friends that it’s crazy to be opening a restaurant in this economy. Well, we believe the exact opposite. We believe it is a great time to open a restaurant. My good friend Chris Cramer of Karl Strauss sent me this article that supports these ideas.

Now we play the waiting game, waiting for Z Gallerie to enjoy the holiday sales and allowing us the time to “get our ducks in a row.” Follow me on this adventure and root for us to succeed or fail! I can guarantee one thing for sure: It will be an incredible play performed in the public eye with lots of story lines, hopefully seasoned with comedy, a dash of drama and of course served up with lots of love, a true love story straight from my heart!

Of course we’re going to build this restaurant for us, but the reality is that this restaurant is for you! We want you to embrace it, be proud of it and know that “it” is here for you.

At a glance: Project “Malarkey”

We’re going to be open for lunch Monday–Friday!
Dinner every night!
Late night Thursday–Saturday!
Brunch Saturday and Sunday!
We’ve already sold the first two 20 tops for $10K each in support of Big Brothers Big Sisters!
The food will be American with Malarkey flair!
There will be seafood, but it’s not a seafood restaurant!
The prices will offer great value and allow you to leave with “your pockets full and your pants ON!”
Shared tables will be a great opportunity to meet new friends — but booths will be available for those who prefer privacy.
You can hang out with me in the kitchen with front-row seats!
No tablecloths!
Great cocktails!
Wild and fun food!
Spend the evening with us with shared plates and small bites, or have a great dinner and venture into the city. We’ll be there when you’re ready to relax after the nightlife! 

Oh my, so much to do! Tune in and follow our progress, and thank you for all of your support!

Bits & Bobs

• What a great honor being named Chef of the Year on Monday night from the Gaslamp Quarter Association. Congratulations to all of the winners!

• Bice, the Italian restaurant on Fourth and Island, is set to open tonight after several delays in construction. Good luck neighbor!

• The Chef Celebration Dinners were a huge hit, with the final dinner in the series served up at Kitchen 1540 last night!

• Michelle Parente is said to have enjoyed my review of her review. I think I might make it a habit, even knowing it may affect my reviews in the future.

• Congratulations to Carl Schroeder and his team, and good luck at the old Modus location.

• Off to Santa Barbara for some cooking demos tomorrow! Any great places to eat at up there?

• I like Kevin to win this season of Top Chef. Catch my blog on Bravo's Web site.

• Have some fun and give me some name ideas for the Fifth and Market restaurant we’re building for you!

• Lots of love, San Diego, and keep me posted on what’s going on in our dining scene ... cheers!

chef@brianmalarkey.com

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