Category Archives: Dinner 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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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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True Food Kitchen in Fashion Valley

Posted on August 11, 2012 | 1 Comment

I first fell in love with True Food Kitchen on a recent trip to Arizona when one of our friends introduced us to the Scottsdale location. So you can only imagine my excitement when I heard that True Food Kitchen was opening up a San Diego location in Fashion Valley, my favorite mall in the area! Already, I’ve been loving the addition of Stacked at FV [read my blog here], and with this opening news I knew I would never go hungry while  shopping again (dramatic, I know).

    

So, what’s to love about True Food Kitchen? How about…everything! First off, Dr. Andrew Veil, who developed this restaurant with Fox Restaurant Concepts, actually taught me a lot of what I know about healthy eating in his book 8 Weeks to Optimum Health (really good read). So, off top, I was on board!

    

Secondly, the food is not only healthy but INCREDIBLY delicious and proves once again that clean eating doesn’t mean bland and boring. In fact, it’s anything but! The flavors work together to fully please even the most particular persons’ palate.

The Mission Statement: “At True Food Kitchen, we want you to feel better, live longer, and make your mouth happy in the process.” Mission Completed!

                                                            The Global Cuisine:

    

                          Shown Above: Miso Soup, Wild Mushroom & Scallion.

    

    Shown Above: Grilled Shrimp Spring Roll: Green Papaya, Soba, Cashew

    

  Above: Strawberry Chopped Salad: Snap Pea, Fennel, Walnut, Goat Cheese.

    

           Just because it’s healthy, doesn’t mean you can’t have pizza & tacos!

    

            And even dessert! Shown Below: Flourless Vegan Chocolate Cake.

   

In addition, True Food Kitchen is made up of environmentally friendly materials, from low-voltage LED lighting and recycled materials to reclaimed wood flooring.

    

    

And, last but not least, I LOVE various elixirs made up of unusual and exotic ingredients and this restaurant always has me covered on that front. Refreshing!

    

Shown Above: Medicine Man: Antioxidant Blast: Sea Buckthorn, Blueberry, Pomegranate, Black Tea and Soda Water. 

   

       Shown Above: Cucumber Refresher: Cucumber & Honey Lemonade. 

    

                                      Shown Above: Jasmine Pearl Green Tea.

                                         

                           Shown Above:  Complimentary Melon Berry Water.

                          Visit True Food Kitchen Online: TFK Fashion Valley.

                                Address: 7007 Friars Road, San Diego 92108.

      In-A-Rush Tip: If there’s a bit of a wait, grab a chair by the bar or the fire pit!

      “Food is the focus, but the love, the genuine connection, is in the details.”

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

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San Diego Dining: Gabardine in Point Loma

Posted on July 26, 2012 | 1 Comment

                                                        

Gabardine in Point Loma is one of my favorite new restaurants! If you’re looking for seafood in San Diego, I highly recommend this new hot spot. First off, let me just say that the decor is incredible: think seaside fun in the sun. Nautical elements can be seen throughout the area: from the overhead fishing rod lighting  to the whimsical striped pillows found in nooks + crannies.

    

    

    

    

As for the food, it was truly a treat! While I used to be an extreme meat lover, I have found myself preferring fish to red meat over the last few years (changing tastes & what not). Now don’t get me wrong, I definitely still love a nice strip of steak, but I have come to really appreciate a finely prepared fish. And as far as the coastal cuisine at Gabardine, I was highly impressed. We started out with some oysters (one with an incredible watermelon flavor) and proceeded to order up savory small plates: Little Mac & Cheese, B.L.A.T Salad and Chorizo Corn.

    

    

    

     Shown Below: Chorizo Corn, A Searsucker Classic Also Served at Gabardine

   

As for the main course, the Fijian Albacore is a MUST! So delicious! The White Sea Bass (wild mushrooms, pancetta, cippolini & fennel pesto) was also honestly exquisite. Some of the best fish I have recently had. The portions were just right: enough to fill us up but not  huge as to leave us uncomfortably stuffed.

    

    

For dessert, we enjoyed the Almond Joy Brownie and the waiter even brought us a complimentary Peach Blueberry Napoleon. The service, by  the way, was above and beyond! And I’m not just saying that because of the free dessert :)

    

    

Brian Malarkey is building himself quite the restaurant empire, and after dining at Gingham, Burlap and Searsucker, I can say that Gabardine is just as amazing!

                                                        Next Stop: Herringbone

Inside Food Scoop: If you’ve had a less than stellar experience at this restaurant when it very first opened, I highly urge you to give it a second chance because (after several complaints) Brian himself took over as the chef de cuisine, changing the menu, portions and even the prices. Trust me,  give it another try!

      

                          Gabardine is located at 1005 Rosecrans St. in Point Loma.

                                                               

                                                  Visit Online: GabardineEats.Com

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Gaslamp Dining: Saltbox at Palomar Hotel

Posted on May 17, 2012 | Leave a comment

The other day, I had an opportunity to try the relatively new Saltbox gastro-lounge found within the Palomar Hotel in the Gaslamp District, Downtown San Diego. Formerly, this was known as Suite & Tender Restaurant within Se Hotel (which was unquestionably tasty) and I was slightly bummed that it was no longer part of the downtown dining repertoire.  However,  Saltbox did not disappoint and, in my opinion, is more than a worthy, delicious replacement!

     

Saltbox focuses on local, farm-fresh ingredients skillfully prepared into delightful comfort fare with a modern twist. I sincerely love the fact that so many restaurants are changing their values to fit a sustainable existence and I commend the owners and chef of Saltbox for using ingredients from local farms.

        But enough chit-chat, let’s have a look at the culinary goodies I enjoyed:

     

                   Cucumber Fizz: Cucumber, Sugar, Lemon, Club Soda

     

                                               Cheese Platter, amazing selection!

          

              Warm Ham & Cheese Bites, Beef Cheek Tacos, Brisket Sliders

    

                                                     Chopped Lobster Cobb

    

                                                  Short Rib Grilled Cheese

                                              And now for something sweet:

    

                  Brambleito: Blackberries, Mint, Lemon, Sugar, Club Soda

    

                                                          Chocolate Churros

    

                                                        House Made Ice Cream

    

                                                               Campfire S’mores

    Saltbox is located at 1047 5th Avenue, visit them online by clicking here.

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Carnitas’ Snack Shack: North Park Dining

Posted on April 25, 2012 | Leave a comment

I’d been hearing TONS of great buzz about Carnitas’ Snack Shack in North Park, so (of course) I had to try it out. The first thing I loved? The fact that they’re open late, like real late; Wednesday through Monday til midnight! But my love for Carnitas’ doesn’t stop there. When  you walk up, it seems like a regular ol’ taco shop, but let me assure you it’s anything but. After ordering your food, you go around the back to find a gorgeous wood patio with plenty of seating. And then…your food arrives. This is where the love truly kicks in.  I can honestly say my BLT was one of the best that I’ve EVER had. Yup, that good. The fries were perfectly seasoned and my dessert was unique and scrumptious. 5 stars!

The mouth-watering BLT:

Seasoned Fries:

Steak Sandwich, also great:

Annnnd, Strawberry Rhubarb Cheesecake (beyond bomb):

The menu varies daily due to the fact that this eatery uses the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients. Carnitas’ Snack Shack is located at 2632 University Ave and I highly recommend you stop by for a bite or two, you won’t regret it . Call (619) 294 7675 or visit them online clicking right here to see the daily menu.

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Gingham:Feast in the East

Posted on April 5, 2012 | Leave a comment

Gingham in La Mesa has been getting tons of positive buzz, so I headed over for dinner to see what all the hype was about. Let me just say: my experience was extraordinary and you can add me to the list of Gingham lovers! First of all, the decor, best described as contemporary cowboy, was incredible. Tons of interesting things to look at and all put together in a visually aesthetic manner.

                  Here’s some shots to provide you with a feel for the ambiance:

            

                                For drinks, we decided to try out the House Sodas.

       

                      Lemon Poppy Seed & Pomegranate Root Beer. Amazing!

      

                                           Mini Cornbread Muffins. Super savory!

             There were many treaty ‘Bites’ to start with, here’s what we picked:

   

                                                                    B. L. T. Fries

   

                 Romaine Salad: Bacon, Turkey, Egg, Avocado, Bleu Ranch

   

                                                             Shrimp ‘n’ Oxtail Grits

   

                            Now, let’s get into the meaty stuff! Our entree’s:

   

                   Pork Chop Porterhouse: Potato Hash, Apple, Agave Sauce

   

                 Baby Back Ribs “Golden State Mustard” with Fried Brussels

                                 And, of course, some sides to go with em’:

    

                                           Chorizo Corn & Butter Potatoes

    

If you’re thinking that’s entirely way too much food for two people, you’re absolutely right! Unlike many hot spots, Gingham comes through with great-sized portions. And while I can’t remember the last time I asked for a doggy bag prior to this, we ended up bringing our leftovers home + happily grubbing them later. If meat holds a special place in your heart as it does in mine, make sure to try out this awesome new restaurant in La Mesa.

Gingham is located at 8384 La Mesa Boulevard. For further information, visit this restaurant online by clicking here or calling (619) 797 1922.

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