Po Pazzo

Had the opportunity to have dinner with co-workers at Po Pazzo last night. And really, I don't know how to sum up the experience.

I'll start with the food.. I had the seafood risotto. And it was good, but not great. And with the entrees in $25-40 dollar a plate range, it should be great. My rice had some bite to it, and wasn't the creamy goodness risotto should be. The clams and mussels were just a little overcooked. Good. Not great.

And the service.... Kitchen seemed to be a little in the weeds. Not overly busy, yet it took a long time to get the food out. The waiter was not as attentive as one would expect with a table of 10. Maybe it was just a bad night.. Everybody has one.

I'd go back, just not if I was my dime. I'd rather have generic Italian food at half the price..

Po Pazzo

Chop Sooey Gastro Truck

After enjoying the festivities that are December nights in Balboa, Bobbi and I needed a bite. The international vendors were all starting to wrap down so we headed to the truck that I had spotted when we got there. Being a busy night, we lucked out and got the last few pulled pork panini's that they had. I'll I can say was YUMMY. Packed with flavor, it was a treat. Something about these high end gastro trucks appeals to me, I think it is the spot on food.

Can't wait to try this one again, when it is less busy!


Chop Sooey truck

Tender Greens

 Been guilty of blog neglect, so here are a few catch up posts starting with Tender Greens.

My mom was in town over thanks giving and we were out and about. Wanted to try something simple, fresh and new. Decided to give Tender Greens a try. Located in the historic Point Loma redevelopment, this little gem serves up some of the freshest salads and food I have had in a while. Prices were reasonable everybody enjoyed. My tuna sandwich as perfect, the albacore was not canned and not over cooked. The food was served quickly and everything was really fresh!

Hungry for soup and salad type chow, this is the place!

Tender Geens Food

The Farm House Cafe

The Farm House Cafe

Link first this time. Go there. Enjoy the food. But make reservations because it is small, cozy and busy!

Shared a dinner at the Farm House cafe with Bobbi a week ago. Let's just say it now ranks on my goto list.


Started with a wonderfully prepared scallop salad. Nothing overpowering, everything fresh and flavorful. The scallops were cooked perfectly, and I do mean perfectly!

Then the mains: I had a roasted lamb shank. Fell off the bone with a wonderful flavor. The couscous side was perfect for the dish. Bobbi had the Duck Confit, and lets just say it was even better then my Lamb. Full of flavors and textures, this was a real treat to enjoy.

We ended the evening with a desert, that like the rest of the meal, was fantastic.

If you go to one place on this blog, you might want to consider this one!

Good eats!

Farm House Cafe
2121 Adams Avenue
San Diego, CA 92116

Curry and More

Having not had much exposure to Indian cuisine, I was pleasantly surprised when Terry suggested that we go out for Indian food before curling on Saturday night. In my mind I imagined that it would be tasty, but nothing to get overly excited about. Boy was I wrong! Now, without a doubt, Curry and More is my newest obsession and my favorite restaurant in San Diego.

I had the murg saag, which is chicken with fresh spinach cooked in mild spices and fenugreek. This dish was incredible! The flavors unfolded in my mouth bite after bite and I simply couldn't get enough. Terry had the mixed seafood curry. As usual we shared our dishes and though his meal was very different from mine it was just as delicious. His meal had some heat and was chalked full of shrimp, calamari, and salmon. Both dishes were a great example of perfectly balanced flavors combined with fresh ingredients. I can't wait until we go back again.

So, whether you are new to Indian food or well versed in Indian cuisine I highly recommend Curry and More.


Curry and More

Counterpoint

Been a while since the last blog.

Last night we had the pleasure to stop into Counterpoint. Funky place. Great, simple food.

Word about the place. It just has a great new age feel to it. Comfortable. Focused. Cozy. Warm. Wood, metal, edison bulbs lighting the bar.

And the food, well, we shared a veggie sandwich and a beet salad. Both were great. Salad was fresh and crisp. Not over dressed. The beets were cooked perfectly. Service was warm and inviting. I really enjoyed our time here. I want to go back for more. The double meat, double cheese and bologna sammy has my name on it. We also split a Julian hard Cider. Probably one of the best ciders I have ever had! Clean, crisp, best described by Bobbi as apple champagne. Need to visit the brewery next time I am up in Julian.

Check it out if your in Golden hills!

Counterpoint

CK Grille

Another fast food Mediterranean place.  Not unique, just good!

Met some old co-workers for lunch today at CK Grille. Kinda like the Kebab shop, or Skewers , or a take out Aladdin but without the lamb. Just chicken or beef. Everything everybody ordered looked good and fresh. My falafel wrap with hummus was good, and came in a whole wheat pita to boot. Reasonably quick and very clean, I'll be going back for more!

In Kearny  mesa and wanting something different, give this place a shot.

CK Grille

Clairemont Mesa and Overland Ave in Kearny Mesa

Cafe Calabria

I have often said that a good cup of coffee is like a fine wine. The taste should be clean yet complex, it should linger on the palate awakening all of your senses, and the layers of flavor should unfold in your mouth revealing their personalities one by one. In my mind, that is the perfect coffee.

While San Diego is a coffee city I always left my favorite cafes, just satisfied. I was never wowed or blown over by any one place, UNTIL I went to Cafe Calabria. Not only is Calabria one of the oldest cafes in San Diego but it is one of the best. There you can experience perfectly roasted beans in a gorgeous atmosphere. There is no other way to describe the coffee other than perfect. I give this place 5 stars; so go down to North Park, walk in, and enjoy.

Neighborhood

It has been a long time since my last adventure Wednesday. Life gets in the way sometimes.

So when my dear friend suggested it, I jumped. The question was where. We tossed around the usual . Rockys. Sushi.. Naw. I wanted a burger. And I remember passing by this place...

So how was it. Cajun Rubbed Burger was great. Not to greasy, but really juicy. Cooked about right. Nice bun. And D's grill cheese would give the grill cheese at Sessions Public or Linkery a run for it's money.

Alas, the real star of the night was the grog. Tried a local brew, Lost Abbey's Red Barm ale. Nice. But then D ordered a Alesmith Speedway stout. And I had a taste. And had to order one myself. Could  possibly be my new favorite beer. Really. 12% alc by volume and complex like a port with a finish of chocolate.Yeah. You want one!

All in all. 4/5 thumbs up with the Alesmith grog getting a 5/5!

http://www.neighborhoodsd.com/

Mustards in Napa

After a very delightful morning of wine tasting (Prager port works, Alpha Omega and Del Dotto) we were hungry. Driving up, I noticed mustards. Figured we'd give it a try.

I had the rabbit pan sauteed with corn bread and wrapped in bacon. The rabbit was delicate and the cornbread was very tasty. Not unlike something served at the tractor room. I really liked this dish! Bobbi had the pulled pork sandwich and honestly, was one of the best pulled pork sammy I have ever had. This was good food at reasonable prices, enjoyed by us both!

Mustards
Mustard's Grill

7399 St. Helena Highway
Yountville, CA 94558
Phone: 707-944-2424
Fax: 707-944-0828

Imperial Palace Dim Sum

I love Dim Sum, and as far as that goes, this one was pretty good. Kinda picked it at random, an old lady handed us a flyer on the corner of Grant and Johnson and said in the best broken english "Dim Sum over there". And we were hungry, so we stopped.

Sticky rice was yummy, as were the pot stickers. Shrimp stuff was all really nice, and I think I loved the spicy pork ribs the most. Lots of flavor, lots of spice. Yum!

If you are walking by, and you see this one, its worth a stop.

Imperial Palace,
Chinatown
San Francisco, CA

Miho Gastrotruck.

Yes. A gastro truck. Parked on the side of the road.

And it was awesome.  I had the fried okra salad. VERY Fresh arugula, tasty tomatoes, great buttercream dressing and perfectly fried okra. A++. My companion had the goat cheese fig tart. I got to taste. Even better then my salad. We were first in line, but my the time we left there must have been 50 people in line or waiting. I can see why. I can't wait to share this with my darling!

Goat cheese tart

http://mihogastrotruck.com/ - Parked somewhere. Go find it!

Sessions Public

On the eighth day God created bacon lollipops, or at least He created imaginative chefs who dream up such decadent delicacies. Yes, you read it correctly, bacon lollipops. God Bless America!!!!!

Terry and I were out and about Sunday afternoon when we pulled up to Sessions Public. Open less than a month this new bistro is a testament to the culinary creativity which seems to be the norm here in San Diego.

As we usually do Terry and I shared a meal. We started with pork belly sliders; topped with a Thai barbeque sauce, white beans and corn. Tart baby pickles, garlic aioli along with french fries deep-fried in duck fat rounded out our decadent dish. It tasted better than I expected because while it sounds heavy and rich it was surprisingly light and packed with flavor. I loved every single bite!

For “dessert” we had bacon lollipops. Actually, they were supposed to be our appetizer, but the waitress forgot to place our order, so we considered it our dessert. Imagine good quality bacon, dipped in tempura batter, then deep-fried. The lollipops came with a chili lime sauce, which was tangy enough to cut through the richness of the bacon and batter but flavorful enough to add a completely different dimension to dish. It was perfection on a plate and something I will have over and over again.

I do hope that this out of the way bistro finds its place in the San Diego restauraunt scene . It would break my heart if this gem became another culinary casualty.

Sugarbowl

I was lead to believe that the culinary selection in Edmonton, Alberta was less than stellar. That theory was blown out of the water the moment I stepped into a funky little eatery called the Sugarbowl. I think my source’s information was grossly outdated and most certainly bias. In the future I will not be so gullible and trusting of so-called “local experts.”

After a tour of the University of Alberta, Terry and I made our way around the corner and into a quaint bar and grill. Being that it was a beautiful day the doors and windows were open exposing the entire front side of the restaurant to the sun and the gentle breeze. As we enjoyed the elements, we perused the menu. It is easy to love a menu that is three-quarters beer and one-quarter food. Between the ambiance, good weather, and the menu selection we totally enjoyed our pre-dining experience.

While I enjoyed a Strombow and Terry enjoyed a Big Rock Traditional, we decided to split the special. Served on a pretzel bun we enjoyed a ham and cheese with a side of sweet potato fries. The food was good and satisfied our hungry tummies. I wouldn’t call the meal spectacular, but it was reasonably priced and well above average bar fare.

Nothing better than spending the day with my guy and having a delicious meal.

Blue Plate Diner - Edmonton, Canada

My sister was kind enough to share this jem with Bobbi and I on our trip to Canada.

Very casual, comfort food kinda place. Lunch started off with prompt service. Waiter was one of the better servers I have had the pleasure of meeting. Nothing went without attention.

Loved the ambiance, tables not matching, kick nacks on the walls all with a modern flare. But it isn't the decor that brings a person back to a joint. It is the food!

Bobbi had the duck salad. Perfectly cooked duck, on a fresh bed of greens with a nice vinegarette. Lovely flavor, perfect portion. And DUCK!

I had the Grilled Veggie Sandwich. Served open face, it was a slice of heaven. And the side salad was one of the best I have had, nice tart dressing that was just perfect for the dish!

Mom had the buffalo burger with sweet potato fries. Flavorful. Juicy. Everything you want, nothing you don't. (Just miss being asked how you want it cooked. In Canada, burgers are served done. You never get asked. No exceptions.)

Finally, Sis had the Indian lunch platter. Nice curry style dish, had a little of the chicken and it was tasty.

So.. If you find yourself in Edmonton, please do not pass this gem up. Fun, fresh comfort food with a twist. Lunch was amazing, next time I want to try dinner!

Thanks Sis for the awesome lunch!


Blue Plate Diner

Tractor Room

Wild Boar stew. Corn Bread. Rabbit sausage. Drinks. White Stripes. And a 10 month anniversary.

What you have there is a recipe for a perfect evening. Honestly, it has been a while since I have has such a fantastic meal. Full of flavor, color, texture. If you have a desire to try something a little different, you owe yourself a trip to the tractor room.

Starter: Pheasant cognac and Rabbit sausage skewer with crispy polenta. Cooked to perfection, each sausage was different. Not fatty, not dry. The polena was a perfect accompaniment for the sausages and we really enjoyed this dish!

Mains: I had the Wild Boar stew. Bobbi had the Gooseberry glazed salmon. Both of these dishes were delightful. The boar was juicy and seasoned to perfection. The back bacon in the dish was a nice touch, just enough salty to make this perfect. The salmon was cooked to perfection and the glaze just worked. The side acorn squash could have been desert, drenched in maple and bacon. The words to describe this whole meal, fun and perfect!

And.. The White Stripes were in the corner enjoying the place too! Yeah.


The Tractor Room

3687 Fifth Ave,
San Diego, CA.

High Dive

Friday I was in no mood to cook.. And needed a beer and a burger in the worst way.

Decided to try the food at a local bar down the hill. The high dive. Been there for just beer in the past, always a nice, casual place. never tried the food. My bad.

Ordered the The Spicy Reed.. "Half pounder stuffed with cream cheese and jalapeno topped with grilled onions smoked bacon, mushrooms and swiss cheese."


Need I say more? It exceeded the description. By a lot. And the fries. Not sure what they do with them, double fry 'em? Batter them? Something. But whatever it is, they were among the best I have had in San Diego. 


Will be back next time I feel the urge for beef and bun.

High Dive Website

Mesa Grill

Mom and I went to Las Vegas on Tuesday to get her car fixed. While we were there we did our usual mall run, looked at the sights, and did some research to find a restaurant we wanted to try. We have been to gems such as Tom Colicchio's Craftsteak and Emeril Lagasse's creole / cajun restaurant Emeril's. Both were beyond excellent. This time we decided to visit a restaurant owned by one of mom's favorite Food Network chefs; Bobby Flay.

The name of his place is Mesa Grill and, as clearly apparent from the name, the food is inspired from the flavors of the southwest. Mom had a smoked chicken and black bean quesadilla with avocado and toasted garlic creme friache, and I had the new mexican spice rubbed pork tenderloin with ancho chile sauce and a sweet potato tamale. Both dishes were as close to perfection as they could be. Each had the perfect balance of spices and fresh ingredients allowing for the chef's vision to be truly realised. The servings were generous and the prices were reasonable. Our experience at Mesa Grill was so delightful that the next time we go to Las Vegas we may break our tradition of finding a new restauraunt and go back to Mesa Grill. Amé la comida!!!!

Mesa Grill - Las Vegas

Anasazi Steakhouse and Gallery

Tonight, for dinner, mom invited Terry and me out for a lovely meal. The best way to describe the Anasazi experience is to call it a steakhouse with a twist. They serve the usual selection of meats but the twist comes when the meal is served. Each dish has the choice of being served precooked on a regular plate or on a hot rock. The rock is about 700 degrees and acts as your own personal searing pan. We all chose to have our meals served on the hot rock and boy am I glad we did. I felt like each of my senses were truly activated during the meal. I saw my meat beautifully displayed on the rock, felt the heat radiating from my dish, heard the sizzle of my food as I cut and cook it myself, smelled the steam and smoke wafting up from my dish, and tasted premium food cooked exactly to my liking (because I cooked it myself). It was a truly interactive event that only added to my enjoyment of the meal. Now, every time I go to visit mom in St. George, I am going to make a stop and give myself, and my senses, a treat.

Nummmmm!

Anasazi Steakhouse and Gallery

Hamilton's Tavern

I have heard of putting hair on the dog, but a dog in a bar, now that is odd! Terry was feeling a tad under the weather yesterday and craved calories. We decided to try Hamilton's Tavern near my home. When we arrived, the place was wall to wall people, music filled the room, and several people were sitting there with their dogs. Having never been there before I was taken back a bit, but after a few moments it seemed almost natural and comforting to have the precious pooches there with their owners.

We sat down at a table and waited for someone to come around to take our order. After a few, however, Terry started to feel as if he just wanted to eat and go. Luckily, the kitchen is next door and we were able to order directly from there and eat at a quiet table outside. I ordered the American style hamburger, as I wasn't really in the mood for experimentation last night, and Terry ordered the Witchfyre burger complete with grilled onions, jalapenos, peppencinis, roasted Anaheim chiles, lettuce, tomato, provolone, and salsaroja. In addition to the burger, Terry also tried the Volcano wings. Both of us dug in and were completely satisfied with our food. It was just good honest food for a reasonable price.

Hamilton's is one of those places I know we will revisit again and again. Next time, when both of us are in the mood for a good old fashioned tavern, we will make our way down the street and into Hamilton's.


Hamilton's Tavern

Burger Lounge

After a wonderful weekend watching Terry and his team curl we decided to take Monday "off." We slept in, went for coffee, took a walk around the city, watched movies, and even got the chance to sit on his porch and take in the beautiful San Diego weather. Even though one of his passions is cooking Terry was exhausted, so for dinner I took my sweetheart to the Burger Lounge. It was a nice break for my darling chef.

The Burger Lounge has a small, but tasty menu. They have a grass-fed beef burger, a turkey burger, and a veggie burger made of quinoa. They also have chicken tenders, tossed salads, onion rings, fries, and even CUPCAKES. Terry and I both decided to have the grass-fed burger with a side of half and half (onion rings and french fries). While I was not wowed and amazed by the burger I did find it very tasty. It was juicy, well seasoned, and tasted very fresh so it is well worth the reasonable price. What did amaze me were the fries and onion rings. They were both crisp, perfectly seasoned, and had a light non-greasy taste. They were definitely the highlight of our simple dinner and are a reason to go back for more.


Burger Lounge
mmm mmm good!

Ricon Taurino - Spicy goodness

This weekend I competed in the 3rd annual Hollywood bonspiel. We finished second overall, but that isn't the story. 

Bobbi and I decided that it was time for spicy goodness on  Sunday. Right accross the street from the arena we found a taco shop. And let me say, the pastor and the pollo were as GOOD as any anywhere .(Yes, that includes El Gordo's in Chula Vista.. )  Pastor was very spicy, and even more tasty. The chicken was fresh and not heavy. And the spicy, smoky red sauce was just awesome.  Not the usual cheese soaked lard that you get in an 'ertos kinda place, just real honest home made Mexican food.

You want good food in this hood, go here. Just brush up on your Spanish.

(Side note.. Next review will be something NOT mexican food!)

Rincon Taurino

Panorama City
8708 Van Nuys Blvd
Panorama City, CA

Los Palmitos Taco Shop

Wanting something different for lunch I ventured out. I have been driving by this place for a while, figured why not..

First, let me say it is your usual taco joint from the outside and inside. Complete with Ranchera music leaking from the kitchen..

Menu was pretty much the usual fare with some seafood items and street tacos. I decided to try the adobada street tacos, 3 to an order. Came with a side of nachos and a trip to the salsa bar. The red sauce was nice. The pickled carrots were great and they had grilled jalapenos too! The jewel of the bar had to be the habanero salsa. Spicy and tasty, clearly home made, and perfect on the chips.

The adobada was not the best I have ever had, I think that title belongs to El Gordo's in Chula vista. It was the best adobada I have had in the Clairemont area. And so were the street tacos. I'd give them the edge over the taco truck on Balboa.

Quick, tasty fun! I will be back.

5145 Clairemont Mesa Blvd
San Diego, CA
92117

Alchemy

Ravel's Bolero is how I felt on Monday while eating at Alchemy.

First off, the place is quaint, cozy and comfortable. Staff was courteous and efficient. And the bathroom has a killer cast concrete sink ;)

Where do I start. We ordered a round of appetizers.

Chiogga Beets: I loved the beets and sheep's milk cheese. The salad it was on top of was gritty and unwashed. I wanted to love it. I was just OK..

Samosas: Just ok. Good flavor on the filling. Crust was a little thick and heavy. Again, I wanted to love, but it was also just OK.

Clams with chorizzo: Again, nice presentation, but again, just OK.. Nothing special, but I liked the chorrizo with the clams.

At this point I was feeling a little down. Like driving a car you fell in love with and realizing it wasn't very good. Wasn't sure what the mains were going to hold for us.

Stuffed Tomato: Bobbi and I shared this. Amazing. Great flavor. Great couscous. Awesome tomato. Light, airy, filling. Really loved this!

Half Chicken: Jidori chicken with a crispy skin. Sis and Mom shared this and it was fantastic. Best chicken I have had, my sis agreed! Perfectly cooked, not greasy, and full of flavor (Something chicken usually lacks on it's own!) And the twice baked purple potato was killer!

So from so so to oh wow. And dessert was no let down, the Cranberry Bread Pudding was killer, and I normally don't like bread pudding and my sisters Profiteroles were stunning! Rich, sweet, creamy goodness without being heavy!

I will revisit, it was quite the crescendo.

Alchemy San Diego

Saffron

Stopped here on the way home from the airport. Me, Mom and my Sis.

Ordered Pad Thai and Green Curry Chicken. Both fresh, quick and delicious. I like the organic rice too. The salad rolls were perfect and simple.

Feeling the need for quick Thai takeout. Do not pass this gem up!

Saffron San Diego

Lefty's Pizza

One night after work my friend Molly invited me to dinner. She wanted pizza and said we should go to Lefty's Chicago Pizzeria for a slice and some beer. The atmosphere was quaint and filled with memorabilia from the city of Chicago. I felt comfortable there and really enjoyed the time with my friend.

Lefty's offers both a selection of thin crust and the traditional Chicago style crust. While the thin crust is tasty, it is obvious that their specialty is the Chicago style (thick) crust. The thick crust pizza is a decadent treat which, in moderation, satisfies completely. Unlike other thick crust pizzas I have tried, Lefty's crust is flavorful and a true part of the pizza experience. It was nice to taste a crust which was not just a vehicle for the sauce, cheese, meat, and veggies. Thankfully, the crust is the focal point and does its namesake proud. While the thin crust pizza was 'okay' the Chicago style crust was amazing and worth the trip. If you are looking for a great place to hang out with friends and indulge in some high calorie pie, then Lefty's is the place to go.

Lefty's Chicago Pizzeria

Murph's Gaslight

If you are ever in Burmuda Dunes airport, and your hungry, I mean really hungry, then stop at Murph's. Simple family style pan fried chicken (yes, PAN fried), corn bread, mashed potatoes, carrots kinda fare. And lots of it. Yum!

Just don't go between July and September. Cause it is hot in the desert. And they close.

(Helps to have a friend with a pilot's license if your going to pull this off in an evening from San Diego, I'm just saying.. )

Murph's Gaslight

Eggery

Bobbi and I were feeling like breakfast today. Last time this happened we ended up at the Broken Yoke. While walking into the Yoke, we Ran into a friend and her son. She recommended we try the Eggery next time we had the urge for breakfast. So we did.

I had the grilled cheese sandwich. Probably the best grilled cheese sandwich I have every had. Sourdough, melted jack, cheddar, avocado and bacon with some fresh tomato. Kinda like a BLT, with no L and some C! Fantastic. Bobbi had the Health One omlette, of which I had a bite. Really tasty too. Overall, we enjoyed it better then the Broken yoke a few weeks back and the best part, there were no lines when we got there.

The Eggery will be on my breakfast rotation from now on.

The Eggery

Da Nino's Pizza

Today I rode from Clairemont to Pt. Loma and back... But this is a food blog so what does a bike ride have to do with food? Lunch!

Stopped at Da Nino's on the way home. I have passed by this place many times and wondered what the food was like. Today, the $5.50 deal for two slices of pizza and a drink was too good to pass up after a 40km bike ride. Had a slice of cheese and a slice of pepperoni. This New York thin crust style pizza was fresh and tasty. Almost Luigi's like. Crust was really nice, cheese was cheesy and the pepperoni was just the way I like it.

A+. My new local pizza joint!

Da Nino's
4101 Ashton Street
San Diego, CA 92110

Loving the Loving Hut

Word of mouth is the best way to find wonderful places to eat. So, when my friend Molly raved about a place called the Loving Hut I was more than willing to give it a try. The restaurant itself is unassuming. It sits at the end of a strip mall a couple of doors down from a 7-eleven. That, however, is simply superficial and is not reflective of the quality of food or service. Once you cross the threshold you enter a joyous atmosphere where people are busy enjoying great food.

As a testament to its quality, and its reasonable pricing, we ate there two times in a row. The first night we ate in and had the delight broccoli, vegetable deluxe, and the special rolls. The second night we ordered take out and once again ate the delight broccoli, special rolls, but this time instead of the vegetable deluxe we decided to try the lemon grass 'chicken.' I never thought that soy chicken could be so flavorful and satisfying, but it was. To my surprise I didn't miss the meat at all! Every dish was so packed full of flavor and depth that we enjoyed every single bite. I know that we will make the Loving Hut one of our regular eating spots.

Liquid Gold

If gold had a flavor I believe it would taste like chef Terry Kolody's butternut squash soup. Today, Terry decided to recreate the butternut squash soup we had in Duncan, B.C. our first night in Canada. He started by prepping his simple, yet fresh, ingredients. Two butternut squash, an onion, organic chicken stalk, maple flavored bacon, fresh rosemary from his garden, and a little salt and pepper (hope I didn't leave anything out). Within an hour we were feasting on his delicious creation. It was so much better than the soup we had in Duncan and that is saying something since that soup inspired him to come up with a soup recipe of his own. Eating it was a total treat and the best part is that there was some left over for lunch tomorrow. Color me the luckiest girl in the world! Thanks babe xoxo

Cherry Point Vineyands - Vancouver Island

Had the pleasure of a wine tasting at Cherry Point. I remember this place from a past Island visit, and it wasn't all that impressive back then. I change of ownership has happened and let me say, for the better!

Cherry Point Estate Wines

The wine has an old world feel to it, a tribute to the Wine Maker, Xavier Bonilla! Was a pleasure having him talk us though the wines. Of note, the Pinot Gris, the Rose and the blackberry fortified were fantastic. The Blackberry was old world port like, with just a finish of Blackberry. Fantastic.

To top it off, Xavier is opening a bistro! I look forwards to my next visit!

Craig Street Brew Pub

Our first night in Canada was delicious for many reasons. It started the moment we got off the plane and stepped on to the moist ground running, literally, because we were dodging raindrops. Just the moisture in the air was a welcome sight to us desert dwellers and marked the start of our restful vacation in Ladysmith. Not long after arriving, Terry and I were treated to a delicious meal at the Craig Street Brew Pub. We shared a scrumptious curry and a warm bowl of creamy goodness. The bacon butternut squash soup was exactly what we needed to feed our tired bodies after a long day of travel. After the first bite we realized that this soup was not only delicious, but that it had some flavors that our palettes weren't used to in combination. Bacon, butternut squash, cream, and a hint of something sweet all melted together to create a wicked-good concoction. Simply put, we liked it a lot!

After the meal Terry and I decided to have sex, Sex in a Pan that is. As an American I have been deprived of this wonderful treat. It can best be described as really good cheesecake surrounded by chocolate, topped with whipped cream, and cradled in a chocolate shell. It is appropriately named as it leaves you completely satisfied and smiling after it is finished. All in all, it was the perfect finish to a wonderful meal.

Craig Street Brew Pub

South Ridge Seafood Grill and Kobe beef?

Went out for dinner tonight to a little place in Breckenridge. South Ridge Seafood Grill. Small place just off main street in Breckenridge. Let me start with the service, which was very good. Our waitress, who I might add was serving a party of 17, seemed to have it together. No missed orders, no wrong plates. Props!

So what did I order at a seafood place? Not seafood, which for me was unusual. Just nothing on the "things that swim" menu interested me. I was craving a good old hamburger, which I ordered with a starter clam chowder. Clam chowder was ok, nothing special but nothing to complain about. The burger on the other hand was dreamy. Ordered it medium, and it came medium, topped with a sharp cheddar and some grilled mushrooms. Tender, juicy, flavorful, savory. A side "potato" salad accompanied the dish, which really was a french fry salad that just worked with the hamburger. I have to say this was one of the best burgers I have had in a very long time. Just about everything that came out of the kitchen seemed to be bang on, dinner reviews from my colleagues were all positive.

Only one thing missing.. My gal to share this one.

Overall A++! Kudos!

South Ridge Seafood Grill
215 South Ridge Street,
Breckenridge,
CO 80424

Pizzeria Luigi

There are two types of people who eat pizza, deep dish people and thin crust people. Personally, I am a thin crust gal. I like to taste the ingredients on top of the bread rather than choking down a big wad of dough covered with some toppings. That, of course, is just my opinion should be kept in mind while reading this blog.

Pizzeria Luigi is a good old fashioned pizza joint. The building is in desperate need of repair and probably a deep cleaning. The pizza jocks are the usual tattooed, artsy-fartsy types who generally work in South Park/ Golden Hill / North Park. It would be easy to walk by the small building covered in the colors of the Italian flag and assume that you weren't missing much, you would, however, be wrong. As soon as you open the door you run into a wall of aroma created by the open kitchen. Italian spices mixed with cheese and meat caress your nostrils leading you to the glass pizza case displaying a wide variety of pizzas. Once there, you are able to mix and match slices. I typically go for something with artichokes or a slice of onion and garlic pizza. No matter what I pick I know it will be fresh, tasty, and will satisfy completely. While deep dish lovers would probably give this place a big thumbs down, this thin crust gal gives Pizzeria Luigi an enthusiastic and sauce covered thumbs way up!

Pizzeria Luigi

Taco Truck on the corner of Balboa and Clairemont Dr

Out and about for a bike ride today, made 39km in about 2 1/2 hours. Included a pitstop at a taco truck I have been meaning to try for a while. I think it is Ricos' Tacos or something, and there was a bunch of people in line so I figured I'd give it a shot.

Ordered 3 adobaba tacos. They were fresh and came with a couple of grilled onions and a grilled pepper. Overall, really tasty and just the right size. And for $1.50 each you can't complain. Salsa was pretty good too. They had a good assortment of filling choices, carne, pollo, tripa, buche, adobada, churrizo, etc. Will have to try a few more ;)

Taco Truck
Corner of Balboa and Clairemont Dr, when it's there..

Searocket Bistro

Had the pleasure of taking my folks and my gal to dinner at the Searocket bistro on Thursday. Where to start?

Lets see...

I had my usual starter, a couple of grilled sardines. I WISH I could make them like this. Tasty, perfectly grilled, drizzled with some great olive oil. Yum! I split a Corvina fish sandwich with my gal at it too was amazing. She had the sardine caesar salad, and that has to be one of my favs!

Dad had the shellfish pasta, which is from Assenti's in little Italy no less, and it was fantastic! Sauce was a great compliment to the shellfish. Stepmom had the Corvina plate and it must have been good too, there was nothing left!

Had to try dessert too. Blood orange custard tart. Not too sweet, but just right, and the side of fresh whipped cream was just the right topping.

Overall, this is one of my favorite places to eat in San Diego. You feel the need for fish, please give Searocket a try!

Searocket Bistro
3382 30th Street
San Diego, CA 92104
619.255.7049

The Linkery

The Linkery has the kind of menu which encourages exploration. You could simply close your eyes and point anywhere on the menu to pick your meal for the evening and you would end up eating a culinary masterpiece. Everything at the Linkery is delicious and more importantly, it is usually organic, handmade (including the bread), and they only use sustainably raised meats from local farmers. If your idea of having a good meal includes encouraging business practices which cater to the health of the community as well as your personal well being then The Linkery should be on your list of restaurants you must visit.

Tonight Terry and I went out with his father, Larry, and his step mother, Joy. In honor of St. Patrick's Day we decided to order a Ruben, salad, and the grilled organic snow peas. We split the meal, which we often do, and were more than satisfied with our individual portions. The Ruben was to die for!!! The corn beef was succulent and bursting with flavor, pair that with the house made sauerkraut, beer bread, Russian dressing, and house cured pickles and our taste buds were thrown into another dimension. Topping the meal off we each had the Serpent's Stout; it is a hearty beer with a syrupy texture, yet it finished with a bit of a bite. The beer was the perfect complement to our meal and a bit of a wink and a nod to old St. Patrick. Éire go Brách!!

Bay Hill Tavern

I see what was La Dolce Vita is now Bay Hill Tavern. Must be making a stop there to see whats up!

Stay tuned!

Dos Patrons

Last night I met my folks over at the local joint. Dos Patrons on Clairemont Dr. Mix of Mexican and Sushi on the menu with a sports bar feel to it.

So the folks ordered a shrimp chimichanga and a sauteed shrimp plate. I show up a few minutes later and order a shrimp burrito. Took 45+ minutes to get the food out, and my salad came out AFTER my burrito. The food itself was OK, but not great. Could have had the same food up the street at xxxxertos for half the price and in 5 minutes. Service deserves a failing grade. Slow. Confused. We did get a discount off the check but that does not make up service or lack of service.

Final verdict isn't in. Every place has a bad day once in a while. I will probably give it one more go..

Dos Patrons - Yelp
3065 Clairemont Dr
San Diego, CA 92117

Farmer's Market in Little Italy

Over the past couple of months Terry and I have established a Saturday morning tradition. After coffee we find our way to Little Italy and the Farmer's Market. We go for the atmosphere, fresh produce, and a Frenchman we affectionately call "The Panini Guy." The Panini Guy does just that, he makes intensely fresh and flavorful paninis. Each one has a unique flavor all its own, but all of them are guaranteed to be delicious. Simply follow the smell of goodness and look for a crowd of hungry people.

Frenchy and his crew work together like a Swiss made timepiece. While they are friendly and will make conversation with the mass of people surrounding their tent, make no mistake, they are all business. Each order is taken with consideration and a smile. You may have to wait five or six minutes for your order to come up, but it is well worth the wait. Make sure you give the market and "The Panini Guy" a try.

Cookies

While bumming around at the La Jolla farmers market, we were talked into tasting some cookies. Well.. Let me just say, these were some of the best cookies I have ever tried.

Red Velvet. Yum.
Banana Chocolate Bacon. Double Yum!
Truffle Chocolate! (::thud:: sound of my passing out on chocolate overload)

Order online. Create your own bacon containing morsel of heaven!

410 Cookies

Heaven Sent Desserts

After our wonderful experience at Urban Solace I wanted to treat my sweetie to some sweets. We walked down the street to Heaven Sent Desserts. If you have never been you must make the time to indulge your sweet tooth. I made room for a delicious cup of coffee, while Terry selected a chocolate pyramid filled with a seductively rich and creamy chocolate mousse. We shared our treats, so for forty-five minutes and six dollars we WERE in heaven floating on a cloud of sugary goodness. I know we will go back again and again.

Urban Solace FINALLY!!!

In need of a night out after an excruciatingly long week Terry treated me to a wonderful meal at Urban Solace in North Park. I had a hard time deciding what to have because the entire menu sounded delicious. After much deliberation I decided to have the bacon wrapped sustainable Idaho trout stuffed with spinach n’ mushrooms. Terry, on the other hand, went to the restaurant with a clear vision in mind. As he usually does, he studied the menu online before we went out that night and was devoted to the idea of eating “Not Your Momma’s Meatloaf” made with ground lamb, figs, pine nuts, and feta cheese with fig jus. For appetizers we decided to share the mac n' cheese along with frogs legs. I know that all of this sounds like an odd combination but each dish was fresh, packed with flavor, perfectly seasoned, and made for a fun and whimsical dining experience. To put it simply - the food was YUMMY!!!!

Ba Ren in Clairemont

Been here a couple of times now. Love this place. Not much of a looker but oh my, I love the Chinese food!

Pork with pickled mustard greens is amazing. Flavorful, different and tasty. Must try. Had the beef with green chili today, it too was nice, tender, tasty and different!

Any Chinese place that puts the usual American fare (Kung Pow Chicken and the like) on the "American" section of the menu is alright by me!

Go be adventurous!

Ba Ren
4957 Diane Ave
(between Clairemont Mesa Blvd & Conrad Ave)
San Diego, CA 92117

F. McLintocks Downtown San Luis Obispo

The central coast of California is known for its slow paced lifestyle, sinful Zinfandels, and BBQ. So on Valentine's Day weekend I decided to take Terry to my old stomping ground to experience it all. After a day of wine tasting we found ourselves blissfully entranced with our surroundings and HUNGRY! We stopped at McLintocks for a meal and were treated to a taste explosion. We gorged ourselves on barbecued artichoke, steak, ribs, baked potatoes, and salads. By the end of the meal we rolled down the street and into my car. Our drive home was spent reminiscing about how good our meal had been and about our wonderful day. We were, to say the least, completely satisfied.

McLintocks

Tajima On My Mind

As we often do, Terry and I went to dinner last night. It was special for three reasons: First, we were visiting a new restaurant, secondly we were meeting with friends, finally I was there with the most handsome man in the world. But I digress, because while the atmosphere was deceptively generic the food was not. It was, to say the least, a pleasant surprise. We ordered various delicacies off the menu such as: the chirashi bowl, miso ribs, deep fried shrimp (with mayo), and the mackerel. Each was full of flavor and reasonably priced. Of course no Japanese experience is complete without a bottle of Sapporo and Sake. Overall, it was a fine night out and left us planning our menu for our next visit.

Tajima on Mercury

Krackatoa - Golden Hills

Had Breakfast with my sweetie this morning at Krakatoa. Overall, the place seemed lively, warm and inviting. Ordered the El Jorullo - avacado and bacon on a toasted telera. Nice! Great bacon to btw. Sweetie had the same thing, she enjoyed hers as well.

Will try the sandwiches next time!

Krackatoa
1128 25th Street,
San Diego, CA
92102
Krakatoa