Blank Slate Expands Dinner Hours in Encinitas

Blank Slate has expanded its Encinitas dinner service to Wednesday through Saturday, from 5:30 to 9 p.m. The restaurant was created by chef Aron Schwartz and Pam Schwartz of APS Hospitality Group. Located near Moonlight Beach, it offers seasonal cooking, wine experiences, private dining and events. The expanded hours run Wednesday through Saturday, 5:30 to 9 p.m.

Seasonal Dinner Service

Blank Slate is located at 101 N. Coast Highway 101, next to Encinitas Surfboards. Its menu changes with available ingredients, and the restaurant advises guests to check the current menu when making reservations. Wine dinners, community nights and visiting culinary collaborations are also part of its calendar.

The restaurant’s dishes include a wedge salad, pan-seared ocean trout with roasted potatoes, local vegetables and charred lemon, and mixed berry crisp with vanilla ice cream. Its pan-seared sea bass is served with Chino Farms pea tendrils, shaved fennel, lentils and lemon beurre blanc.

Recognition From Local Dining Press

Lick the Plate host and The Coast News culinary columnist David Boylan featured the restaurant in May and later named it among Encinitas’ best new restaurants.

David Boylan, Host at Lick the Plate, said:

“I've covered Aron and Pam for years and loved every one of their projects based primarily on their combined culinary talent, not to mention their prowess at pairing wine with and fabulous winemaker dinners. I don't know another restaurant in Encinitas that has their level of culinary experience in the kitchen and updates their menu as frequently based on the best and freshest ingredients. All that combined makes Blank Slate one of the best restaurants in Encinitas.”

Chef Aron Schwartz and co-owner Pam Schwartz near Moonlight Beach.

Hospitality Experience

Both owners trained at the Culinary Institute of America. Aron Schwartz’s career includes L’Auberge Del Mar, Lutèce in Las Vegas and the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina, where he spent nearly 15 years, including eight as executive chef.

Pam Schwartz has worked in professional kitchens, wine service and restaurant leadership, including roles at Nobu in Las Vegas, Pamplemousse Grille, Arterra, Hello Betty Fish House, Ranch 45 and Sur La Table in Carlsbad. Together, the couple formed APS Hospitality Group and created Blank Slate.

Reservations And Events

Guests can view upcoming experiences and reserve a table through Blank Slate’s reservation calendar. The restaurant also offers private dining and gatherings in its Encinitas space.