Picante Martin’s reopens following owner’s death

Picante Martin’s Mexican Restaurant has reopened for business on Balboa Island following the death last week of owner Martin Diaz-Puente.

The popular eatery at 320 Marine Ave. closed indefinitely after Diaz-Puente died at his Costa Mesa home Feb. 14. In the days following his death, residents and fellow shop owners left candles, flowers and messages on the restaurant’s front step.

An employee said Friday that Picante Martin’s has resumed regular business, although members of Diaz-Puente’s family have not been back to work yet. The restaurant is open from 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

— Michael Miller