Calling all carnivores in North County! A new spot has just opened along the historic Highway 101 and it’s feeding the community’s cravings for a true blue delicatessen experience.
Moto Deli has officially opened in Encinitas, bringing with it the essence of a traditional European meat shop with an American spin. This is not your average sandwich shop! They fulfill the true meaning of “delicatessen” in every way, even using time-honored techniques of whole animal butchery and artisanal charcuterie.
The wheel-turner behind the made in-house credo is Executive Chef Andrew Halvorsen. Halvorsen is popular in the culinary community for his roles in prestigious kitchens around San Diego, including Stone Brewing and A.R. Valentien in The Lodge at Torrey Pines. His vast experience shows in his work at Moto Deli where he carefully-crafts each element of their menu, from the freshly baked breads to the house made pickles, kettle chips, jarred condiments and sauces.
Now you don’t have to forego quality ingredients while on the run! This quick-service, Old World European deli shop is dedicated to serving an array of smoked meats, artisanal charcuterie, and seasonal entrees, alongside a robust selection of elevated deli sandwiches. Special to this deli, they also offer a twist on the traditional sandwich with their open-faced tartines. Must-tries include their Porchetta sandwich, made with lemon caper aioli, crispy capers, arugula, ciabatta, and the Caprese, an open-faced tartine topped with burrata, tomato, red onion, micro arugula, and finished with an olive oil and balsamic vinegar drizzle. If you’re looking for a way to spice up a special event they also offer a convenient scooter delivery service, which is available for catering and special events.
What about the space? The 1,200 square-foot eatery is located at 810 N Coast Hwy 101 in Encinitas and is housed in one of the original historical buildings constructed along Encinitas’ main thoroughfare. Largely influenced by owner Mario Warman’s passion for his coastal community and playing off the history and natural warmth of this 1920s-era building, the shop features Bohemian Sarape pillows, redwood benches and original ceiling beams. The best part? The sunken outdoor patio that opens to the bustling street side; because we all know, no Southern California eatery is complete without some alfresco dining under market lights!
For me, there is nothing better than a sandwich made with care, and this deli is a front runner for some of the best meats, cheeses and in-houses sauces around. If you’re in North County, it definitely worth the stop for a bite!
Moto Deli
810 N Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas. (760) 943-MOTO or motodeli.com
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Maria Wiles is a local writer, Buffalo NY transplant and self-proclaimed chicken wing connoisseur. When she is not talking about her love affair with food, she can be found in child's pose at a yoga class or rollerblading on the Mission Beach boardwalk. Follow her on instagram.