Q: Tell us about the history of Pastaria Vivi. What inspired you to open the restaurant?
Brandon Jennings, Chef and Co-Founder: Pastaria Vivi was born from the belief that restaurant-quality, handmade pasta deserves a place in everyday life. Chef William Treff and I trained for decades in Michelin-caliber kitchens before launching at the Cardiff Farmers Market. The response was incredible, and it inspired us to open our storefront in Encinitas, where we bring together Italian tradition and California ingredients through fresh, handcrafted pasta and sauces.
Q: Why was Encinitas the right place for your business?
The Cardiff Farmers Market answered that question for us. The warmth and enthusiasm of Encinitas residents told us this was our community. The town’s appreciation for local, quality food and its strong neighborhood identity made it the perfect home.
Q: What can guests expect when they visit Pastaria Vivi?
Guests can expect warmth, craft, and delicious food. We offer handmade pasta, including pappardelle, ravioli, campanelle, farfalle, and rigatoni, paired with house-made sauces, fresh focaccia, handmade burrata, charcuterie, and curated wines. Whether guests dine in or take fresh pasta home, we hope they leave feeling inspired and nourished.
Q: Why did you join the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce and serve on the City’s Business Commission?
Being a good neighbor means showing up. The Chamber has connected us with fellow business owners while strengthening our ties to the community. Serving on the City’s new Business Commission is a natural extension of that commitment. We’re currently focused on improving communication between businesses and the City, streamlining permitting, and supporting long-term economic development.
Q: Why is tourism important to Encinitas?
Tourism helps keep our local economy healthy year-round. When visitors discover Encinitas’ coastline, culture and businesses like ours, everyone benefits. A thriving visitor economy strengthens the neighborhood for residents too.
Q: What’s next for Pastaria Vivi?
We’re excited about menu additions like our meatball sandwich and a growing pasta subscription box. Once our alcohol license is approved, Italian wines will join the menu. The best is yet to come.
Q: Finally, what does your perfect day in Encinitas look like?
An early morning walk on the Rail Trail with my family, making pasta with Will and our team, grabbing “The Carl” from Ernie’s for lunch, picking up my son from Bambini Montessori, and ending the day with dinner at Bluefin Sushi or Valentina.
