CUCINA Enoteca Coming to Flower Hill Promenade

North County patrons of Urban Kitchen Group will soon be able to get their Tracy Borkum fix a lot closer to home. The renowned restaurateur has announced that she will open CUCINA enoteca, a second CUCINA option in July 2013. The restaurant will take the place of Chevy Tex Mex in the Flower Hill Promenade. 

“We’ve been looking in the area for a new location for years,” Borkum said. “In fact, I’ve been eyeing the old Chevys building for nearly seven years. It was fate that timing worked out.”

CUCINA Enoteca will be larger than its older sister restaurant, spread out across two-stories and 7,000 sq ft. And, according to Borkum, is her most elaborate project in her near 17-year experience in San Diego.

“With each new location we open we want that venue to take on the characteristics of the area,” she said. “In Del Mar we have such wonderful proximity to the Thoroughbred Club and the polo fields. It will be a perfect expansion of CUCINA urbana, but it will definitely have its own feel.”

To help craft that signature feel, Borkum has brought in a team of leading designers and local artists. Hawkins Construction will contract the project, while Orness Design Group will design the kitchen and Mark Bausback is the architect. In addition, local artist Tocayo will create a mural inside restaurant. The restaurant will also feature an “ode to the equestrian” space to serve as the focal point of the venue, and pay homage to what makes Del Mar so well-known. 

“We will absolutely showcase a signature emphasis on custom-made creations, locally procured vintage finds and reclaimed and repurposed materials,” she said. “It’s going to be very fun.”

Stepping into the kitchen at CUCINA enoteca are Executive Chef Joe Magnanelli and Chef de Cuisine Andrew Bachelier. Executive Pastry Chef Jack Fisher will continue to provide for guests’ sweet tooth. The trio will create menu items exclusive to the Del Mar location.

CUCINA enoteca is bound to become a hotspot for wine lovers, as well. The new location will feature an entire wall of carefully selected wines.

“We create an experience for all five senses,” Borkum said. “From the food to the design, we aim to wow every step of the way. Each person that walks through our doors is stepping in to our home—we put our heart and soul into all elements of the restaurant and we want to create a one of a kind experience for each and every person.”