Category Archives: Dining San Diego

CrossFit + Paleo in San Diego

Posted on March 26, 2013 | 1 Comment

To get in shape this spring in San Diego, I’m trying something a little different: CrossFit, a constantly varied and high intensity strength & conditioning program & Paleo, a modern nutritional plan based on an ancient diet!

My gym of choice? CrossFit PB.

So far, I’ve been LOVING the workouts, check them out HERE.

Also, it appears that I joined just in time, because I was able to sign up for the 5-Week Fitness Challenge, a competition where you get your weight & body fat measured (along with pics) and do a timed workout at the beginning and end of the challenge to track your progress.

A big part of the fitness challenge is an all paleo diet aka the caveman, stone-age or primal diet.

So, what does this consist of?

Meats & Veggies

Nuts & Seeds

 Some Fruit

Little Starch 

No Sugar

Here are some awesome paleo meals I’ve enjoyed lately:

paleo

paleo

paleo

paleopaleo

paleo

paleo

paleo

paleo

paleo

paleo

strawberries

In the mood for something more?

Here’s the scoop on San Diego Paleo Treats:

(click title for websites)

Not So Fast Food Truck:

delicious burgers & more, click here for schedule.

Perfect Food Bars aka ‘My New Obsession’:

perfect food bars san diego

A local San Diego product, found at Sprouts & Whole Foods.

Paleo Treats:

Try the Brownie Bite & Cacao Now!

That’s It Bars:

that's it bars

These treaty bars can be found at Sprouts & the only ingredient is fruit! 

Julian Bakery (in La Jolla):

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My, oh my, try the macaroons! Also: paleo bread, wraps, & even muffins!

So, folks, that about sums up my summer get-fit plan!

If I’ve sparked an interest, check out these related blogs:

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Posted in Dining San Diego, Fitness San Diego

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Lucky’s Lunch Counter in East Village

Posted on January 21, 2013 | Leave a comment

Lucky's Lunch Counter, San Diego, East Village

If you’re looking for a casual spot to grab a quick lunch near downtown San Diego, then Lucky’s Lunch Counter is a great bet! They serve fast, fresh, delicious, Chicago-style fare and even breakfast all day. Not to mention, this is the IT spot during baseball season due to it’s proximity to the ballpark in East Village.

Check out some of the eats:Lucky's Lunch Counter, San Diego, East Village

Lucky's Lunch Counter, San Diego, East Village

Lucky's Lunch Counter, San Diego, East Village

So, when you’re downtown San Diego and in the mood for your ballpark favorites, you know where to find the good stuff!

Check out Lucky’s Lunch Counter online: click here.

Address: 338 7th Ave, San Diego 92101

Menu Tip: If you’re not sure what to order, know that San Diego Magazine voted  Lucky’s the “Best Reuben in Town”.

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Isabel’s Cantina: Best Brunch in Pacific Beach

Posted on January 16, 2013 | 1 Comment

For those of you wondering where you can find the very best brunch in Pacific Beach, look no further: Isabel’s Cantina is where it’s at! After living in PB for quite awhile, I can easily say that this is my go-to SD brunch spot.

Isabel's Cantina Pacific Beach Brunch

Not only is the atmosphere just about perfect, but the the food is ALWAYS delicious. In fact, it somehow seems to get better and better each time! The service is always friendly and prompt and the vibe here is all around great.

Isabel Cruz, the chef and owner, is known for her love of food and unique mix of Asian and Latin influences into a simple, clean, and healthy cuisine.

Check out some of my favorite dishes:

Isabel's Cantina Pacific Beach Brunch

Isabel's Cantina Pacific Beach Brunch

Isabel's Cantina Pacific Beach Brunch

Isabel's Cantina Pacific Beach Brunch

Isabel’s Cantina is located at 966 Felspar Street San Diego, CA 92109.

Visit Isabel’s online by clicking HERE.

Can’t get enough?  Isabel also has several other restaurants in San Dieogo, including Barrio Star & Coffee Cup.

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Posted in Brunch San Diego, Dining San Diego

30th on 30th in North Park

Posted on October 10, 2012 | Leave a comment

If you’re looking for something to shake up your dining experiences, I highly recommend 30th on 30th Street in North Park. This event happens the 30th of every appropriate month, on (wait for it…) 30 street! A self-guided culinary walk takes you through several eateries, with DELICIOUS food specials for only $3 or so. I am the type of eater that never wants to pick just one entree, I always want to try a bit of this + a bit of that, which is why I found 30th on 30th so great.

Now, there’s several ways to go about this and that’s what makes it even better: you could come with a large group, a date, or solo,  you could try all the places on the list or just a few, you could stay and relax at each place or do it moving from spot to spot. So, you see, the experience is totally yours to customize!

                Take a peek at what we enjoyed at 30th on 30th in September:

    

                             Surf + Turf Ceviche Tostadas at  El Take It Easy

   

                                                      Meatballs at Urban Solace

   

                                       Pulled Pork Sliders at The Linkery

                                    

                        Vegan Dumplings + Vegan Cookie at Sipz Vegetarian

                                    

            Mini Apple Cupcake + Cake with Pumpkin Ice  Cream at Hipcooks    

    

                        Mesquite Charred Pulled Chicken at Ritual Tavern

    

                                 Wood-Fired Cheese Sandwiches at Tiger! Tiger!

 Check out the website for all the specials, prior to exploring: 30th Street Org.

                                    Savvy tip: bring cash, preferably small bills!

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The Yellow Deli in Vista: Wednesday Farmers Market

Posted on September 9, 2012 | Leave a comment

Prior to visiting this unique restaurant, I’d heard a LOT of chatter about The Yellow Deli in Vista. And while people eluded to the religious connotations and the slightly different surroundings, the main thing that I heard remained that the food was incredible! So, both curious and hungry, I went to explore for myself.

     

I was beyond charmed at the visual aspects of the restaurant. What appears to be a large & cozy cottage was filled with raw wood, murals, comfy chairs, hidden nooks & crannies, plants and even a large spiral staircase. I observed that everyone who was working was dressed in an old-fashioned manner, the women very modestly (with longer skirts and tops) and the men all sporting long beards.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

For lunch, I decided to sample a bit of everything from the menu. Starting with a Cauliflower Soup of the Day, progressing to the colorful Chef Salad, and finishing up with the Turkey and Havarti Sandwich (served with house-made potato chips and a pickle). The food was as fresh as it gets, and I relished every last bite.

     

     

     

So, while I established that the restaurant was both beautifully furnished and served farm-fresh food, my curiosity wasn’t fully satiated. I mean, what’s with the dress? And what religion is practiced by the people working at this establishment? The murals on the wall hinted at dreams of love & togetherness, but what was it really all about? Looking to find some answers I did a bit of research.

     

     

It turns out the Yellow Deli was built by the Twelve Tribes, a Messianic community that lives together, works together, provides for one another, and love each other. To read the full history and beliefs of the Twelve Tribes, simply click here to visit their website and read all about it.   The Twelve Tribes have communities all over the world, from Brazil and Australia to Canada and Germany, and welcome anyone who is interested in sharing this life. The Morning Star Ranch, located nearby in Valley Center, is one of such communities and a large portion of the food served at the Yellow Deli was grown there.

     

Each Wednesday, a farmers market takes place at The Yellow Deli and you can buy fresh fruit and vegetables from the Morning Star Ranch, along with organic lotions and natural body care, amazing teas (yerba mate), and loads of other goodies.

                                                                  Take a Look:

     

     

              

     

             

     

Note that this restaurant is open 24 hours a day throughout the week but completely closed on the weekends, so plan your dining adventure accordingly!

                                                        Website: theyellowdeli.com

                                           Address: 315 E. Broadway, Vista, CA 92082

Location Tip: If Vista is a bit out of your way, you’ll be happy to know there is also a Yellow Deli located in Valley Center: 32011 Lilac Rd, Valley Center, CA 92082.

     

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Posted in Brunch San Diego, Dining San Diego, Dinner San Diego, Lunch San Diego

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Brunch at the Grant Grill in the US Grant San Diego Hotel

Posted on August 30, 2012 | Leave a comment

I am always in search of a scrumptious brunch in San Diego, and the experience at the Grant Grill is one of the best that I’ve encountered lately! This elegant restaurant is located within the historic US Grant San Diego Hotel, a national icon since 1910. If you’re interested in learning more about this downtown San Diego landmark, click here to read the complete, rich history of the US Grant.

     

If, however, you’re just interested in the brunch experience (no shame in the game) then read on! The very first thing you notice when you step foot inside this stunning hotel is the….air conditioning! While this may seem like a given, this summer has been one of the hottest in many years in San Diego, and many restaurants simply aren’t equipped to deal with these kind of Florida-esque temperatures. The Grant Grill, however, is way ahead of the curve and delightfully cooling. Another plus? While many restaurants are cramped on the weekends, the Grant Grill offers an alternative: a spacious and non-hectic dining experience.

    

    

           

     

    

From the marble floors in the lobby to the timeless chandeliers, this place whispers of class and elegance, bringing you back to a time when ladies donned their finest silk and gentlemen were just that; gentlemen. So as you settle into your cream-colored booth, take a minute to enjoy the culture behind the history.

    

The brunch menu features classic California cuisine, focusing on fresh seafood from the Pacific, sustainable poultry and meats, and delicious herbs and produce.

    

   Shown Above & Below: Citrus Brioche French Toast, Orange Blossom Honey

    

    

      If you’re seeking out a decadent brunch, I highly recommend Grant Grill.

                                                   Address: 326 Broadway, 32101

                                                                           usgrant.net

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Bunz: Gourmet Burgers in Mission Valley

Posted on August 25, 2012 | 1 Comment

     

Once in a while, I get the inkling to treat myself to a good, ol’ fashioned burger. One place I’ve recently tried and loved is Bunz in Mission Valley. Embracing the farm to table concept, Bunz brings San Diegans tasty, gourmet burgers made from natural (certified humane) beef, topped with local, organic produce, and placed on delicious buns from local bakery Bread & Cie. This new hot spot is brought to you by Chef & Restaurateur Jeff Rossman of Terra American Bistro, who once again proved that good food (simple or not) is truly all in the details!

     

     

     

     

Not in the mood for a burger? No worries, Bunz also has a great selection of other diner classics: salads, hot dogs, sandwiches and (my favorite) MILKSHAKES!

            

   Veggie Tip: If you don’t like to pig out, Bunz has an incredible Vegan burger.

              Bunz is located inside the Days Hotel: 475 Hotel Circle, 92108.

                                                                      bunzsd.com

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Upcoming Event: 8th Annual Chef Showdown for Charity

Posted on August 25, 2012 | Leave a comment

Coming up next month is an event that is sure to excite food enthusiasts throughout San Diego County: the 8th Annual Chef Showdown! If you’ve watched shows such as Iron Chef and Top Chef, here is your chance to  view the action up close & in person on Sept. 17 at NTC Promenade in Liberty Station.

    

This culinary battle brings together some of San Diego’s finest chefs, to be divided into 2 teams. The participating chefs are set to include: Anthony Sinsay from Burlap,  Amy Dibiase from The Shores, Matt Gordon of Urban Solace, Dawn Parks from Wild Thyme Co., Augie Saucedo from Donovan’s, Joe Magnanelli from Cucina Urbana, Scotty Wagner from Chi Cuisine, Paul McCabe from Delicias, Bobby Mariner from Viejas, Hanis Cavin from the Carnitas Snack Shack, Rachel King of Searsucker,  Chris O’Donell from La Villa. These amazing chefs will then battle it out over the preparation of 8 tantalizing courses, with a secret ingredient throughout, hosted by Sam the Cooking Guy.

The best part? This event will raise money (a goal of $100,000) for the Center of Community Solutions, an organization committed to assisting those affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, and elder abuse. Operating since 1969, this organization is a truly invaluable and priceless asset to the people of San Diego.

So, if you’re ready to sample cuisine from some of the most highly esteemed chefs in San Diego, bid on extraordinary auction items, raise money for the Center of Community Solutions & bring attention to National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, then this is certainly an event you don’t want to miss!

                                                           Tickets to the Event:

                                       $125 each or $200 for a VIP reservation

                                   Purchase by Calling: (858) 272-5777, ext. 120

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Dinner at The Fishery in Pacific Beach

Posted on August 18, 2012 | Leave a comment

    

If you are looking to step away from the sports bars and taco shops in Pacific Beach and enjoy a traditional & up-scale dinner, The Fishery is what I recommend! This is, without a doubt, one of my favorite dinner restaurants in PB, and several factors go into this statement. Settle in, and allow me to walk you through the experience:

1. You will find some of the freshest seafood in all of San Diego at this restaurant. How can I be certain, you ask? Well, a seafood market selling the freshest catches, brought to you by local fisherman, is located right in the middle of this eatery.

2.Residents are encouraged to come by and purchase seafood (even without eating in the restaurant) so feel free to swing by and pick up some mussels, jumbo shrimp, and many various wild & delicious filets: all for a very reasonable price.

                                                                  Some Starters:

    

                             Oysters on the Half-Shell & Shrimp Cocktail

    

3. The Fishery is known for using the freshest ingredients possible and Chef Paul Arias ensures that all the ingredients are used at the “peak of their seasonality.”

    

Romaine Salad: pumpkin seed caesar dressing, white anchovy (on side for me)

    

     Market Seabass: watercress & stone fruit salad, balsamic roasted potato

    

      Seared Mano De Leon Scallop: heirloom tomato, arugula, crispy polenta

4. Not only is their seafood selection always on point, but dessert at this restaurant never fails to impress! In fact, it’s always the perfect ending to a delightful meal:

    

                                         Chocolate Chip Cookie & Milkshake

Tasting Tip: Each Tuesday, The Fishery features a 4-course Tasting Menu for $28, with locally grown vegetables & fresh fish, complete with  seasonal dessert.

                      The Fishery is located at 5040 Cass St. in Pacific Beach.

                                                               thefishery.com

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Pacific Beach Brunch: JRDN at Tower23

Posted on August 16, 2012 | Leave a comment

    

If you’re looking to have brunch in Pacific Beach, I know just the spot! JRDN at Tower23 hotel has an unbeatable atmosphere, located right on the coast with a clear ocean view and ultra-modern design. The menu has many tantalizing brunch options, and the food is always great. Another bonus? You can go for a stroll right on the PB beach after brunch (something I personally LOVE to do).

    

          

                                                          “Mornin’ Sunshine”

    

                                 California Grass -Fed Skirt Steak & Eggs:

    

                                                  Chicken & Biscuits (my favorite):

    

   Dinnah Tip: The JRDN dinner menu is just as great as the brunch, try it out!

                        JRDN is located inside Tower 23 Hotel in Pacific Beach.

                                    Address: 723 Felspar St. San Diego, CA 92109

                                                                            jrdn.com

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