Border Grill and IDG Consider Growth, Brian Malarkey To Debut TWO New Eateries

1) Border Grill: Amidst news of Nancy Silverton’s plan to open a San Diego outpost of her famed Pizzeria Mozza in the old police headquarters building, rumor has it that the chef may have some LA company. Apparently, Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger are exploring leases for a Border Grill there as well. [EaterWire]

2) Innovative Dining Group (IDG): Though sbe’s Katsuya IS poised to take over the Quarter Kitchen space inside the Andaz Hotel, others, including IDG, were looking at the space. In fact, IDG was actually considering an outpost of Boa Steakhouse here and owners are still exploring a SD expansion for one of their concepts (Boa, Sushi Roku, Katana, and Delphine) or something new. [EaterWire]

[Photo: Future home for Brian Malarkey's Herringbone]

3) Brian Malarkey: Can you say... fabric fetish? First searsucker, then Burlap, and now Brian Malarkey will open Herringbone. Originally the Top Chef alum said that this 7,000+ square foot project destined for La Jolla would offer Italian fare, but there has been a change of plans. Malarkey has now decided to go with more of a Mediterranean-inspired theme and is anticipating an April 2012 opening. But, there's more. Malarkey and his partner James Brennan inked a deal on Monday to take over Gio’s Restaurant in La Mesa (East County). While also 7,000 square feet, we are told this unnamed project will be an easier remodel and could likely open before Herringbone. For now it’s business as usual at Gio’s, but changes to come. [EaterWire] — David Morris