Category Archives: Lunch San Diego

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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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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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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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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Sugar & Scribe Bakery in Pacific Beach

Posted on June 19, 2012 | 1 Comment

While roaming about and enjoying the sunshine several days back, I stumbled upon a delightful treat (many, actually) tucked away in a little blue nook upon Garnet St. in Pacific Beach; a lovely neighborhood bakery called Sugar & Scribe.

                                             

While I enjoy just about anything so long as it’s sweet, I have a deep-rooted affinity for BAKED GOODS in particular. Yes, I had to capitalize that because that’s how much I love them. My favorite subtitle in my favorite category!

                                                       Some of the lovely goodies:

       

                                                        A few more of my faves:

       

      

I’m not one to be shy about cupcakes: I’ve been back several times since my first visit and each time proves to be just as delightful as the previous. In fact, I’ve introduced several of my friends to Sugar & Scribe and they are also in love.

Side note: While I love, love, love mini-cupcakes, I can’t forget to add that this bakery also serves incredible souffles, pies, tarts, cakes, breads & even soups!

       Just the other day I broke from my routine and tried a prosciutto quiche:

       

                                                             Highly Recommended!

Sugar & Scribe is located at 1420 Garnet Avenue in the Pacific Beach neighborhood of San Diego, California.   For further information and/or catering orders, visit them online at sugarandscribe.com or simply call (858) 274 1733.

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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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Sustainable Feast at Liberty Station

Posted on April 24, 2012 | Leave a comment

Last Sunday, I got a chance to attend the 2nd Annual Sustainable Feast in San Diego. This fun event  is put on by local restaurants, volunteers,  chefs, sponsors and farms to help support San Diego’s Outdoor Education programs.

Perhaps, like me, you remember attending 6th Grade Camp aka Science Camp? As I remember, it was an incredible time filled with hikes, swimming, bonding with friends and loads of new knowledge. In addition to raising money for 6th Grade Camp, this event helps with the following programs for children: Splash Science Lab, Green Machine, Marine Science Lab by the Board of Education.

Upon arrival, guests were given a restaurant check-off sheet for all the tastings, eleven in total, and a recipe book detailing how to make all the dishes you were about to try in the comfort of your very own home (how awesome!)

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    Ready to see the food itself? Below are visuals of what I sampled:                      

             (Click on the restaurant names to be directed to their websites)

     

                                            Incredible creation from Mision 19

     

                            Elevation Burger from, who else, Elevation Burger

    

                                    Gorgeous masterpiece from The Red Door

    

                                            Fantastic Taste from Gabardine

    

                                              Gruyere Taste from Sycuan Resort

    

                                                                Soup from Solare

    

                                                       BBQ from Stone Catering

     

                                              Incredible Lamb from The Prado

         

     

               Build-Your-Own Seasonal Vegetable Pizza from Alchemy

    

                                 Delish chicken dish from Just Call Us Catering

Many local farms donated tons of fresh goodies as ingredients for the feast, these include Be Wise Ranch, Catalina Seafood, Polito Family Farms, Specialty Produce, Stehly Farms Organic, Suzies Farm, Dragon Organics + Sage Mountain.

Interaction with the chefs + restaurant folk was just as interesting as the dishes:

         

          

Other highlights included a beautiful setting, Edible San Diego, and a live band:

              

In all, it was a wonderful event for an excellent cause. I will definitely be trying out several of the restaurants whose cuisine I sampled in the future!

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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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Pacific Beach: Tuesday Farmers’ Market

Posted on April 4, 2012 | Leave a comment

    

Grocery shopping for green goodness in the sunshine, by the beach, as lovely people hand you samples of deliciousness from all sides? It doesn’t get much better than that! Except, it actually does. When you shop at a farmers’ market, you are able to get the freshest organic fruits & veggies from local sources while supporting a sustainable way of life. Why get tangerines and apples that have been grown 8 states over and shipped thousands of miles when you can hit up a Farmers Market to get some that were grown practically in your own backyard?

Yesterday, I got a chance to check out the PB Farmers’ Market and I was impressed with the quality of the goods. This market takes place between Garnet & Bayard St. every Tuesday from 2 to 6:30pm, rain or shine. If your looking for a local spot to get some  eats, check out the sustainable selection at this market.

                               Highlights from the Pacific Beach Farmers’ Market:

       

                                                               Fresh Wheatgrass

       

                                      Fresh Baby Carrots, Grown in Oceanside

      

                                          Selection of Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds

     

                                                             Bunch of Radishes

     

                                                Strawberries, Grown in Fallbrook

     

                                                                     Flowers Galore

     

                                           Selection of  Sprouts from Suzie’s Farm

     

                                                                   Cute Little Cacti

 There was so much good stuff that it was a bit hard to narrow down exactly what I wanted to take home with me! However (after much browsing) I was finally able to figure out what will end up on my table. Here are my finals food picks:

       

              Tangerines                        Baby Broccoli                               Baby Carrots

      

         Strawberries                   Country French Bread                      Spinach

       

  Muffin & Macaroons                   Brownie Bites             Orange Scone & Croissants

While I was at the PB Farmers’ Market, I was able to pick up a new copy of Edible San Diego (a unique & incredible magazine highlighting San Diego farmers and restaurants using locally grown produce). If you want to learn more about local & sustainable food, I highly recommend Edible San Diego as a source! Click here to visit them online.

To find out more information about the Tuesday Farmers’ Market in Pacific Beach and get a full list of vendors, visit the website by clicking here.

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La Jolla Dining: Roppongi

Posted on March 27, 2012 | Leave a comment

I’ve always been a fan of beautifully presented food, which is why Roppongi in La Jolla is high on my list of favorite restaurants in San Diego. Delicious New Asian cuisine presented in a European fashion: what more could a girl ask for? To top, this restaurant is known for its many tapas-style dishes, meaning I get to try numerous dishes instead of sticking strictly to one (always a plus in my book!) Roppongi has won numerous awards, including the coveted “World’s Top Restaurant” by Zagat Survey, making it a must-try for both  local San Diego foodies and those traveling around the San Diego area. Here’s what I sampled:

   

The Dynamite Shrimp are pictured above, a treaty tapas  dish made up of spicy crab mix, pineapple, opal basil reduction, ginger pesto and Tobiko caviar.

   

Shown above is one of the restaurants most famous dishes: the Signature Crab Stack. This beauty contains mango, cucumber, tomato, avocado, red onions, pea shoots, peanuts, cilantro, crab meat & spicy ginger lime dressing to top it off.

   

The gourmet goodies shown above are the Crispy Potstickers: prepared with tiger shrimp, sea scallop, Tobiko caviar, mint, ginger, garlic and chive oil.

  

These two specialty rolls are the Prospect Roll on bottom: spicy crab, tuna, hirame, green onion jalapeno, habanero masago, lime and yamagobo and the Steak & Fries on top: Kobe beef, crab, tomatoes, smoked lomi lomi, asparagus, avocado and smoked paprika aioli. Both were absolutely unique & incredible!

Tapas Tip: Happy Hour takes place daily from 3 to 6pm, which means all of the above mentioned dishes (and many, many others!) are half off during this time.

Roppongi is located at 875 Prospect Street in La Jolla. To view full menus, visit Roppongi online by clicking here or simply call (858) 551 5252 for reservations.

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