Ricardo Zarate's Paiche Swimming to MdR in Early 2013

Chef Ricardo Zarate launched Downtown's Mo-Chica on 7th Street just months ago, and already he is planning his next move: Paiche, a seafood and ceviche-centric restaurant to open early next year in Marina del Rey. After speculation about its location, Mo-Chica management confirms the new restaurant will reside along Maxella Avenue and nearby Lincoln Boulevard.

Zarate and business partner Stephane Bombet are looking to replicate the success of Picca's elegant-but-not-pricey vibe with a string of fish and ceviche dishes that will break the mold of many seafood restaurants. Paiche will have 164 seats, including 52 on the patio. Sliding doors span the restaurant, giving it a full inside-outside feel. The 24-foot long open kitchen lends an inviting feel while the bar will stand just a few feet from the entrance, resulting in an instantly convivial vibe.

Using Peruvian flavors and ingredients such as black mint, aji amarillo peppers, rocoto and purple corn, Zarate plans to incorporate Amazonian freshwater paiche as well as local, sustainable fish. In addition, he'll use parts that are often thrown out or neglected such as whole fish heads. At the moment, Zarate is even looking for a source for piranhas to serve at Paiche.

No word just yet on who's putting together the cocktail program, though cocktail success at Picca and Mo-Chica indicates it will be of high standard.

Once open, Paiche will have continuous service from lunch through dinner, with weekend brunch planned.
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