Farmer and the Seahorse

I've passed this restaurant numerous times over the past year, but it wasn't until Jean got a few of us together for lunch that I actually ate there.  It's directly across from Torrey Pines Lodge in Torrey Pines.  We had some trouble finding it, as you enter from a small street and have to know where you're going.  There used to be a big sign on Torrey Pines Road on the building near the restaurant, but that has been removed.  We finally found it, thanks to Google Maps, and what a great  find it  was.

They draw a big lunch crowd from the numerous biotech companies in the area, plus Scripps Green.  Make a reservation well in advance.  During the summer months, the expansive patio is the place to be.  We, however, not knowing the restaurant, made an inside reservation, and the six of us sat at large farm table for8-10 people.  Our waitress, Stevie, was wonderful.  She described the dishes, made recommendations, and refilled drinks promptly.  The architecture is contemporary, using lots of wood.  They have a private room for small parties (10-12), carved out of an old Airstream.  I want to have a party there.  They also have large banquet rooms, and they were having a medical lunch for 150 people the day we were there.

The food is typical Brian Malarky food.  Delicious.  They are open for breakfast, lunch and happy hour, and brunch on the weekends.  We were there for lunch.  My crab cake sandwich with a side salad for $14 was delicious.  Regina had short ribs with potatoes and veggies.  Debbie and Jan had the lobster risotto, which they loved.  Other lunch items included a shrimp louie salad, fish tacos, fish and chips, lasagna of the day (it was butternut squash lasagna the day we were there), numerous salads and lots of great side dishes.  We tried the baby beets (served warm) with goat cheese.  Absolutely delicious, and prices are very moderate.

If you're in the area, try this new Brian Malarky restaurant, Farmer and the Seahorse.  They are adding a really upscale coffee bar soon.  From the pictures, it looks fantastic.  The only negative was a rather long wait for our food, but we were with good friends, and it didn't really matter.  However, it was on the slow side.  Next time you're in Torrey Pines for a golf game or a medical appointment, plan it around meal time.  You're going to love this place.