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Hot Picks: San Diego
Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor,
Food and Wine Access
Michael
Reiss, Editor, Food and Wine Access
San Diego is a great culinary and travel destination.
Here are some options for your visit!
Click on the picture to find the information you want.
 Where to Stay |
 Where to Eat |
 What to Do |
Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor,
Food and Wine Access
Michael
Reiss, Editor, Food and Wine Access
Where to Stay
Hotel Parisi - La Jolla
Photo by Michael Reiss
Experience the jewel that is La Jolla from Hotel Parisi, an urban retreat that provides a relaxing and elegant, Zen-like experience to soothe body, mind and spirit. Designated as one of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, this unique European-style property with 20 suites, is designed for the discriminating traveler who values discreet, nurturing personal attention. Each room has custom-built furniture, the finest Egyptian cotton bed linens, sophisticated room lighting and original art. If the nearby ocean and shops are not enough, the battalion of wellness experts that are on call 24 hours of the day will make your stay memorable, and a repeat visit an absolute must!
Hotel Parisi's tranquil interior space creates a special haven
for its guests.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Hotel Parisi
1111 Prospect St.
La Jolla, Ca.
(858) 454 1511
Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
Photo by Michael Reiss
Start with a great location - directly opposite San Diego's waterfront convention center and directly at the edge of the famous Gaslamp Quarter, renowned for nightlife and great restaurants and you've got the makings of a great hotel experience. Then add to it striking architecture and design that creates the feel of an elegant urban loft, two outstanding restaurants, a complimentary business center, and a very personable, helpful and professional staff. That's the essence of this new Hilton Hotel San Diego - Gaslamp Quarter with the convenient convention center location.
Hilton's sparking pool
provides a resort vacation at its best--in view of the Convention
Center and the Bay.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Hilton San Diego - Gaslamp Quarter
401 K Street
San Diego, Ca.
(619) 445 8667
Red Lion Hanalei Hotel - San Diego
Photo by Michael Reiss
Well, if you really wanted to go to Hawaii but ended up in San Diego, the Hanalei will offer you true Aloha spirit at a fraction of the cost. From the moment you enter the lobby, the sounds and sights of the islands will welcome you. One of the hotels on Hotel Circle, this resort property has been well maintained and renovated to include all the amenities you'd expect of a first class hotel plus the "ohana spirit," which means you're part of the family!
The Hanalei 's chek- in is paradise--including
Hawaiian music which greets you at the door.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Red Lion Hanalei Hotel
2270 Hotel Circle North
San Diego, Ca.
(619) 227 6049
The Grand Colonial - La Jolla
Photo by Michael Reiss
Standing just one block from the Pacific Ocean since 1913, The Grande Colonial provides gracious, European-style service in an atmosphere of elegance and comfort. All 75 nonsmoking rooms are spacious with soothing decor and historically inspired furnishings. The amenities are deluxe, the service attentive and the location is convenient to all points of interest in La Jolla and the greater San Diego area.
The Grand Colonial Hotel in La Jolla has a gracious classical
interior.
Photo by Michael Reiss
The Grande Colonial
910 Prospect St.
La Jolla, Ca.
(858) 454- 2181
Loews Coronado Bay Resort- San Diego
Photo by Michael Reiss
Located on a private peninsula, just 15 minutes from downtown San Diego, this luxurious classic California resort offers both leisure and business travelers an exceptional level of service, stunning ocean views, a full spectrum of guest amenities and superb cuisine at Azzura Point. In addition, the property takes full advantage of its scenic waterfront setting, offering all manner of aquatic and marine rentals including a gondola cruise complete with serenading gondolier. Loews Resorts take pride in their "Loews Love Kids" and "Loews Loves Pets" programs.
Loews Coronado Bay Resort has romantic, breathtaking views.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Loews Coronado Bay Resort
4000 Coronado Bay Rd.
Coronado, Ca.
(619) 424 4000
Town and Country Resort and Convention Center
This 1,000 room hotel is the largest of the hotels in the Mission
Valley area. Professional meeting planners often choose this venue
because of its amenities and its proximity to area attractions. Within
walking distance of the resort is the Fashion Valley shopping center
with over 200 world class shops and boutiques. The San Diego Trolley
is also located adjacent to the property. Climb aboard for direct,
convenient access to Old Town, Downtown, The Gaslamp Quarter and Tijuana,
Mexico.
The Town and County Resort and Convention Center has a large park-like
setting.
Town and Country Resort
& Convention Center
500 Hotel Circle N.
San Diego, CA 92108
(619) 291-7131
Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor,
Food and Wine Access
Michael
Reiss, Editor, Food and Wine Access
Where to Eat
Laurel
Photo by Michael Reiss
Laurel, located in the Banker Hill area of downtown has an elegant "uptown" feel complete with nightly piano or guitar music to make the dining experience exquisite. The refined ambiance forms a perfect backdrop for the sophisticated, Provençal creations of Chef Jason Shaeffer and Chef De Cuisine Maryjo Testa. If item selection proves too difficult, consider the interesting and well priced prix- fixe dinner menu with impeccable wine pairings.
Favorite Appetizers:
Warm Tarte Fine of Roquefort and Caramelized Onions,
Arugula and Frisee Salad
Roasted Local Organic Beet Salad Toasted Pistachios, Warm Goat Cheese
and Red Grape Vinaigrette
Favorite Entrees:
Moroccan Spiced Rack of Colorado Lamb, Eggplant and
Tomato Tagine with Herbed Couscous and Lamb Jus
Braised Veal Osso Bucco, Ragout of Spring Vegetables and Parmesan
Potato Puree
Favorite Desserts:
Warm Banana Tart, Caramel Ice Cream and Hazelnut Praline
Laurel's "Seasonal Risotto" was
creamy, delicious, and cooked to perfection.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Laurel
Corner of 5th and Laurel
San Diego
(619) 239-2222
A.R. Valentien
Photo by Michael Reiss
A sense of place permeates this distinctive, craftsman style restaurant housed in the Lodge at Torrey Pines. Views of the magnificent pines surround you as you peruse the menu of refined, California cuisine. The four course tasting menu offers exceptional value. Try A.R. Valentien for a gracious dining experience.
Favorite Appetizers:
Fairview Gardens' White Asparagus, Foie Gras Sauce
Hand Cut Pappardelle, Wild Ramps, Fresh Morels and English Peas
Favorite Entrees:
Seared Guerrero Negro Scallops, White Corn Risotto,
Good Faith Cilantro
White King Salmon, Asparagus, Hon Shimeji Mushrooms, Santina Potato,
Pinot Noir Sauce
Favorite Dessert:
Harry's Berries - Strawberry Rhubarb Feuillete, Caramel Sauce
"Seared Guerrero Negro Scallops, White Corn Risotto, Good
Faith Cilantro" is an example of the spectacular food served
at A.R. Valentien.
Photo by Michael Reiss
A.R.Valentien
The Lodge at Torrey Pines
11480 N. Torrey Pines Road
La Jolla, Ca.
(888) 826-0224
Winesellar and Brasserie
Photo by Michael Reiss
The wine store, cellaring facility and restaurant makes for an unbeatable combination for the discerning gourmet and wine lover. An award winning wine list offered at just 20 per cent above retail with wines from under $10 to thousands of dollars offers unending possibilities to pair with the impeccable cuisine. Each item is thoughtful, a unique interpretation and exquisitely executed. The tasting menu is an unparalleled bargain. This is a dining experience at its finest.
Favorite Appetizers:
Three preparations of Duck Foie Gras - Seared with Peach,
Port Glaze and Brioche, Terrine with Fig and Chiogga Beet Salad, Madeira
Glazed Custard
Indian Spice Crusted Maine Diver Sea Scallops Medjooli Date Chutney,
Fennel and Green Apple Salad
Favorite Entrees:
Two Preparations of Duck, Confit of the Leg and Grilled
Breast, Ragout of Fresh Cranberry Beans and Morels
Black Pepper and Sage Roasted Pork Loin, Roasted Young Turnips, Mission
Figs and Lavender Honey
Favorite Desserts:
Fresh Raspberry and Almond Clafoutis, Almond Ice Cream
"Three preparations of Duck" shows the depth and richness
of The Winesellar's cuisine.
Photo by Michael Reiss
The Winesellar and Brasserie
9550 Waples Street
San Diego
(858) 450-9557
Tapenade
Photo by Michael Reiss
Chef Jean Michel Diot comes with an impeccable culinary pedigree from Lyon, France's center of gustatory tradition and excellence. Chef Diot does his tradition proud, serving some of the most serious and distinguished contemporary French food with an accent on Provençal fare. From the very start with a coup de champagne, crusty, sweet French bread and homemade tapenade (available by the pound to go), you know you are in skilled hands. The meal just rises to a crescendo as you debate which of the creative desserts to experience. Tapenade is a feast for all the senses.
"The Wild Mushrooms Raviolis with white truffle oil sauce"
burst forth with foam filled flavor.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Favorite Appetizers:
Traditional Mediterranean Fish Soup with a Saffron Rouille
Wild Mushrooms Raviolis with white truffle oil sauce
Favorite Entrees:
Veal Tenderloin Noisettes, morels sauce, potato crepes, wild mushrooms,
endives
Maine Lobster, White Corn, Porcini, English Peas, Vanilla Lobster
Sauce
Favorite Dessert:
Warm Soufflé Peanut Tart Bananas Compote, Caramel Ice Cream
Tapenade
7612 Fay Ave.
La Jolla, Ca.
(858) 551-7500
Scalini
Photo by Michael Reiss
Boasting a loyal following of discriminating local diners, Scalini feels like a family gathering, a gourmet gathering at that! After 16 years, they've got the formula for a fine evening down pat. Great food, fabulous wine list, friendly waitstaff, attentive owners on the premises and a great jazz combo for dancing on the weekend and a view of the Del Mar polo grounds for a dash of panache.
Favorite Appetizers:
Grilled Portobello Mushroom, Polenta and Roasted Peppers
with Goat Cheese and Port Wine.
Risotto Al Funghi, Arborio Rice, Wild Mushrooms, Parmesan Cheese and
Truffle Oil
Favorite Entrees:
Brodetto di Pesce, Italian Style Bouillabaisse of Shrimp,
Clams, Mussels and Fresh Fish in a Spicy Tomato-Saffron Sauce
Branzino Pan Roasted Fresh Seasonal Seabass with Capers, Olives and
Basil in a light Tomato -Garlic Broth.
Favorite Dessert:
Fresh Selection of Pastries and Cakes
Chef Brant Beauchamp brings creative touches to Scalini's exquisite
Northern Italian cuisine.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Scalini
3790 Via de la Valle
Del Mar
(858) 259- 9944
George's Ocean Terrace
Photo by Michael Reiss
This upstairs casual dining venue that caps George's at the Cove is no stepchild when it comes to view or dining. Having whetted your appetite on the stunning ocean view, you are ready to dive into a sophisticated patio dining spot that attracts a capacity crowd at both lunch and dinner. The atmosphere is casual and the vibes are fun.
Favorite Appetizers:
Lobster Risotto
Papparadelle Pasta, mushrooms, zucchini, goat cheese, rocket
Favorite Entrees:
Thai Inspired Fish Stew
Niman Ranch Veal T-bone, slow-baked tomatoes, eggplant & peppers
Favorite Desserts:
House made gelato, ice cream and sorbets.
George's Ocean Terrace inspired cuisine makes dining a delight.
Photo by Michael Reiss
George's Ocean Terrace
1250 Prospect St.
La Jolla
(858) 454- 4244
Sbicca
Photo by Michael Reiss
This sophisticated yet cozy local gathering spot is the perfect place to take in the ambiance and the creative cuisine of Chef Susan Sbicca. The menu offers items from many culinary traditions, all expertly executed and deftly presented.
Favorite Appetizers:
Sesame Seared Ahi with ruby wasabi sauce and cucumber
serrano salsa
Ginger Sautéed Seafood Salad with scallops, rock shrimp, mussels
and fish served with mixed greens, broccoli, pea sprouts and crunchy
noodles
Favorite Entrees:
Spicy Cajun penne pasta with rock shrimp, andouille
sausage, corn, roasted bell peppers and tomato garlic sauce
Sautéed white seabass with stir fried vegetables and wasabi
beurre blanc
Favorite Dessert:
Gianduia fudge brownie with cappuccino gelato
Sbicca's fine cuisine is graciously served.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Sbicca
215 15th Street
Del Mar
(858) 481-1001
SEVEN
Photo by Michael Reiss
Located in the swinging Hillcrest area of San Diego, this trendy, cutting edge restaurant and lounge attracts the Gen-X crowd for its martinis and late night dining and disco but also attracts the serious foodie interested in creative preparations of California cuisine.
Favorite Appetizers:
Black Mussels - Guajillo Chili Broth with garlic and
Julienne Tomatoes
Grilled Lamb Chops - Tandoori Marinated and served with Orange Couscous
Favorite Entrees:
Udon Duck - Shredded Preserved Duck with Udon Noodles,
Shitake Mushrooms, Aspiration Broccoli and Garlic Mushroom Sauce
Vegetarian Tagine - Brown Rice with Roasted Oyster Mushrooms, Chick
Peas, Toasted Almonds and curried Tomato Broth
Favorite Dessert:
Tropical Asian Bunuelo - Sweet, Crispy Wonton Holding Coconut Sorbet
and Tequila Flambe of Tropical Fruits with Passionfruit Sauce and
Caramelize Banana.
Chef J.C. Esquivel prepares creative California cuisine at Seven.
Photo by Michael Reiss
SEVEN
1421 University Ave.
Hillcrest
(619) 297-0722
Gringo's
Photo by Michael Reiss
This modern Pacific Beach favorite offers contemporary Mexican cuisine in celebration of its distinctive regions. Flavors are bold with subtle spicing reflective of the regional differences in ingredients and preparation. The margarita's are made with a homemade margarita mix and are unique and memorable. Try Gringo's for inspired food in an modern architect-designed setting.
Favorite Appetizers:
Mahi Mahi Ceviche - Tomatoes, onions, cilantro and fresh
Mahi Mahi in a lime marinade
Sopes Surtidos - Three mini corn tortilla boats of chicken, beef and
mushrooms, guajillo chile sauce and fresh crema
Favorite Entrees:
Sizzling Fajitas - sizzling vegetables, rice, beans, shredded cheese, sour cream, pico de gallo, and homemade flour or corn tortillas.
Chile Verde - Tender pieces of pork in cilantro tomatillo sauce.
Favorite Dessert:
Banana crepes drizzled with chocolate sauce
Gringo's dynamic and innovative cuisine is pleasing to the eye
as well as the palette.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Gringo's
4474 Mission Blvd.
San Diego, Ca.
(858) 490-2877
New Leaf
Photo by Michael Reiss
Located in the lobby of the stunning Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, this light, airy restaurant is perfect at any time of the day. Creative selections unique to this restaurant are found in all of the menus including their happy hour and living room appetizer selections.
Favorite Appetizers:
Cosmopolitan Salad, mixed Greens topped with feta cheese,
jicama, marinated artichokes, bacon, tomatoes, kalamata olives, and
turkey breast
Topped Dough - Grilled portobello mushrooms, grilled chicken, caramelized
shallots, and buffalo mozzarella
Favorite Entrees:
Tortilla Crusted Salmon on Latin couscous with lime
creme fraiche and cilantro oil
Roasted vegetable pasta tossed in caper olive oil.
Favorite Dessert:
Fresh berry brulee tossed in Grand Marnier
"The Tortilla Crusted Salmon" is an example of the
New Leaf's dramatic and prize-wining cuisine.
Photo by Michael Reiss
New Leaf
Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
401 K Street, San Diego
(619) 231-4040
The Islands Sushi and Pupu Bar
Photo by Michael Reiss
Located in the lobby of the Red Lion Hanalei Hotel, this tropical setting offers creative selections of sushi and pupus that are great as an appetizer or hearty enough for a full meal.
Favorite Sushi Rolls:
Big Kahuna Roll - Soft shelled crab, topped with seared
albacore, avocado, sesame seeds with spicy garlic ponzu sauce
Caterpillar Roll - Broiled fresh water eel, mixed crab topped with
avocado, sweet eel sauce and sesame seeds.
The Islands Sushi and Pupu Bar
Red Lion Hanalei Hotel
2270 Hotel Circle North
San Diego
(619) 297-1101
Nine-Ten
La Jolla
Photo by Michael Reiss
Located in the historic Grande Colonial Hotel in La Jolla, Chef Michael Stebner prepares the best that the market has to offer in his cuisine called "Market Cuisine." He sources the freshest ingredients including fish flown in daily from Hawaii, the East Coast and France to make the meal memorable. Many items on the moderately priced menu are also offered as half portions for those who enjoy sampling many dishes.
Favorite Appetizers:
Lobster Risotto
Papparadelle Pasta, mushrooms, zucchini, goat cheese, rocket
Favorite Entrees:
Day-Boat Scallops, backyard- inspired vegetable salad
Niman Ranch Veal T-bone, slow-baked tomatoes, eggplant & peppers
Favorite Desserts:
House made gelato, ice cream and sorbets
Chef Michael Stebner uses the freshest ingredients in Nine
Ten's cuisine.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Nine-Ten
910 Prospect St.
La Jolla, Ca.
(858) 964-5400
Roppongi
La Jolla
Photo by Michael Reiss
Roppongi, named after a fashionable district in Tokyo (the word translates as "six pine trees"), offers a thoughtful, imaginative and always surprising array of fusion items that combine influences from the Pacific Rim, to Indian and back to Europe. The extensive menu is divided into tapas (smaller tasting portions) and more traditional categories of food items. The tapas section is a gourmet's dream come true, except that one can't possibly order all the items that appeal. These appetizers are surprisingly substantial and three or four shared between two will make a satisfying meal. Chef Stephen Window has masterfully translated his global culinary experience into a restaurant we can all enjoy.
Chef Stephen Window's masterful
"Mongolian Shredded Duck Quesadilla with Spicy Asian Guacamole"
Photo by Michael Reiss
Favorite Tapas:
Pan Seared Foie Gras, Japanese Pear and Orange Tamarind
Sauce
Mongolian Shredded Duck Quesadilla with Spicy Asian Guacamole
Vietnamese Chicken Salad with Mint and Lettuce Cups
Woked Black Mussels with Leeks, Lemongrass, Coconut Milk and Green
Curry
Grilled Portobello Mushroom with Spinach and Miso Dressing
Roppongi
875 Prospect St.
La Jolla, Ca.
(858) 551 5252
Anthony's Star of the Sea
Photo by Michael Reiss
The Star of the Sea shimmers with gorgeous harbor views, a sophisticate decor and offers an array of seafood and meat dishes in exciting presentations. Executive Chef Brian Johnston brings culinary skill and panache to The Star of the Sea, making for exciting combinations of the freshest seafood and seasonal accompaniments. The Tasting Menu is an excellent way to sample many of the chef's highlighted dishes.
Favorite Appetizers:
Shrimp Scampi Portobello, shrimp, garlic butter and
tomato on Portobello Mushroom
Mu-Shu Duck Roll, Chinese five spice crepe, wild mushrooms and Hoisin
sauce
Favorite Entrees:
Sea Scallops, Thai red curry broth, wild mushrooms and
snow peas
Grilled Baquetta Seabass, wild mushrooms, white truffle risotto, port
wine reduction
Favorite Dessert:
Pina Colada "Sundae" with Rum Caramel sauce, coconut gelato, macadamia nut crunch and fresh pineapple
Star of Sea has elegant food service.
This is the "Grilled Baquetta Seabass, wild
mushrooms, white truffle risotto, port wine reduction."
Photo by Michael Reiss
Anthony's Star of the Sea
1360 Harbor Drive
San Diego, Ca.
(619) 232 7408
Azzura Point-Loews Coronado Bay Resort
Photo by Michael Reiss
Azzura Point's elegantly casual setting offers the perfect backdrop for Chef de Cuisine Ron Tolle's sophisticated California Cuisine. Carefully executed delicacies incorporate local flavors and most dishes are prepared with fresh herbs from the resort's own extensive herb garden. From the Vegetarian Herb Garden Menu to the Chef's Tasting Menu, to the a la carte offerings, there is something for everyone. The experienced Sommelier, Kurt Kirschenman, oversees an extensive and thoughtful wine list and expertly pairs wine with Chef Tolle's cuisine.
Favorite Appetizers:
Roasted Asparagus with preserved kumquats and aged balsamic
Lobster Risotto with mushroom and truffle essence, lobster jus
Favorite Entrees:
Pan Roasted Pacific Ono with Carlsbad black mussels
and hibiscus flower infused rice, morel mushrooms, caramelized cauliflower
and lemon thyme
Cornbread Stuffed Quail in prosciutto with poached potato, chard,
walnuts and roasted white peach
Favorite Dessert:
Warm Chocolate Tart with caramel ice cream, chocolate tuile
Sommelier, Kurt Kirschenman, will help you find the perfect wine
pairing.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Azzura Point
Loews Coronado Bay Resort
4000 Coronado Bay Road
Coronado, Ca.
(619) 424 4000
Terra
Photo by Michael Reiss
Terra, an American restaurant serving regional Pan American fare offers an exciting, eclectic selection of items. Chef Jeff Rossman uses a bold palette to season and present his highly original and well executed dishes. Twice honored with the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, this moderately priced restaurant offers great value in both food and wine.
Favorite Appetizers:
Coconut Dusted Crab Cakes topped with hot mustard
Chipotle Shrimp Salad, sweet corn, mixed beans, carrots, celery, roasted
red peppers, organic Fallbrook field greens and Chipotle lime vinaigrette
Favorite Entrees:
Gulf Shrimp Linguini, lobster infused corn emulsion,
wilted spinach, andouille sausage, morel mushrooms, and black linguini
Teriyaki Duck Breast, tamarind honey glaze, young bok choyand basil
jasmine rice
Favorite Dessert:
Chocolate Cigar
At Terra Chef Jeff Rossman used bold creative touches in
his exciting cuisine.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Terra
3900 Vermont St.(Uptown /Hillcrest)
San Diego, Ca.
(619) 293 7088
Extraordinary Desserts
Photo by Michael Reiss
In the mind of Owner/Pastry Chef Karen Krasne, "If you're going to splurge, it should be worth it." Chef Krasne combines her classical French pastry studies with her experience in the tropics of Hawaii and Mexico to create unique flavor combinations in her desserts and gelatos. She serves only the finest coffees and teas to accompany her creations. The proof is in the tasting and locals happily wait in line to select their favorites which are served garnished with fresh flowers.
Favorite Desserts:
Roasted Coconut Cream Torte
Chocolate Macadamia Torte
Desserts are served in a beautiful outdoor patio at Extraordinary
Desserts.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Extraordinary Desserts
2929 Fifth Avenue
San Diego, Ca.
(619)294 7001
The Marine Room
La Jolla
The Marine Room boasts table side service.
Photo by Michael Reiss
The unparalleled oceanfront location puts you right in the lap of breaking waves. The culinary talents of Chef Bernard Guillas puts you right in the lap of a nouveau French dining experience. The sounds of a smooth jazz trio (on Friday and Saturday evening) puts you right on the dance floor. What a combination for a romantic special occasion night out!
Favorite appetizers:
Skillet Roasted Forest Mushroom Basket, young artichokes
and pearl onions, red vermouth reduction
Organic Spring Corn Brulee, spicy greens, gingered peach, pecan tuile,
tupelo verjus dressing
Favorite Entrees:
Ginger oil basted Maine Lobster Tail, parsley potato
mash, young vegetables, Lemoncello reduction
Country Meadow Rack of Lamb, maple mustard, crushed pistachios, silver
thyme jus, leek goat cheese bread pudding
Favorite Dessert:
Gianduja Chocolate Bar Crunch, pistachio tuile, rose petals, griottes, raspberry Chambord
The "Ginger oil basted Maine Lobster Tail,
parsley potato mash, young vegetables, Lemoncello reduction."
Photo by Michael Reiss
The Marine Room
200 Spindrift Dr.
La Jolla, Ca.
(858) 459 7222
George's at the Cove
Photo by Michael Reiss
The restaurant's three stories boast an unsurpassed view of the sparkling La Jolla cove. Yet, besides the view, locals and tourists in the know come here for the superb cuisine. Chef Trey Foshee offers an exciting selection of masterfully prepared and presented items that are guaranteed fresh because he routinely purchases them on the way to work. The Tasting Menu is a fine way to sample his latest creations.
Favorite Appetizers:
House Cured Salmon, fennel, new potato and fava bean
salad, fennel "pollen" and lemon oil
Chilled Tomato and Pepper Soup, Peekytoe crab and avocado cocktail
Favorite Entrees:
Pacific Swordfish, roasted eggplant, baby spinach salad,
Romesco sauce
Tian of Lamb,spinach, eggplant tomatoes, and zucchini in a sauce Provençal
Favorite Dessert:
Stone Fruit Tart, nectarines, peaches and plums in a free form tart served with nectarine ice cream and apricot marmalade
Chef Trey Foshee's superbly fresh and creative
cuisine make George's a fine choice in dining.
Shown is the"House Cured Salmon, fennel, new
potato and fava bean salad, fennel 'pollen' and lemon oil."
Photo by Michael Reiss
George's at the Cove
1250 Prospect St.
La Jolla, Ca.
(858) 454 4244
Pacifica Del Mar
Del Mar
Photo by Michael Reiss
Overlooking the ocean in the Del Mar Plaza, this trendy Asian Fusion seafood restaurant, attracts a chic crowd. Dining on the patio or in the stylish interior, the creations of Chef Christopher Idso appeal to the eye as well as the palette. A favorite spot with locals and tourists.
Favorite Appetizers:
Japanese Clam Chowder, shitake mushrooms, water chestnuts,
scallions
Crispy Calamari, spicy Vietnamese dipping sauce, red pepper aioli
Favorite Entrees:
Blackened Salmon Salad, crisp vegetables, sushi rice,
peanut sesame dressing
Penne Pasta, chicken, caramelized onions, spinach, porcini sherry
cream sauce
Favorite Dessert:
Peach Crisp, topped with oatmeal streusel and honey-lavender gelato
Pacifica Del Mar's beautiful rooftop patio overlooks the pacific
ocean.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Pacifica Del Mar
1555 Camino Del Mar
Del Mar Plaza, Del Mar
(858) 792 0476
Diane Sukiennik, Associate Editor,
Food and Wine Access
Michael
Reiss, Editor, Food and Wine Access
What To Do
San Diego is the second largest city in California so there's plenty to see and do. Get an orientation to the city via The Old Town Trolley Tours which you can pick up from any of the stops along their route. The guides are entertaining and informative and the tour will help you choose the spots you want to return to for more in-depth exploration. For more information contact your hotel concierge or the front desk or call (619) 298 8687.
The Old Town Trolley Tours
Balboa Park Food and Wine School
Photo by Michael Reiss
Don't leave the city without experiencing the exciting culinary scene first hand. Some of the most recognized chefs in the city show off their culinary talents at The Balboa Park Food and Wine School. They offer evening classes which include a meal of the food prepared by you and the guest chefs accompanied by fine wines including some of the best of the local vintages. Also offered is a full spectrum of wine classes. Check out their schedule and plan a memorable culinary evening.
Thornton Winery
Guest Chef Steve Pickell leads a lively
class at Balboa Park Food and Wine School.
Photo by Michael Reiss
Balboa Park Food and Wine School
House of Hospitality (second floor) next to the Prado Restaurant
Balboa Park, San Diego
Ian Lutes, Director
(619) 555 9441 x210
The Gondola Company
Photo by Michael Reiss
Find a touch of Venice in San Diego. The Gondola Company offers romantic and relaxing cruises from 11 A. M. to midnight. Experience the magic as you gently cruise in your own private gondola through the enchanting canals and waterways of the Coronado Cays. All cruises include a complimentary appetizer or dessert plate. Blankets, an ice bucket and glasses are provided. You may bring your own beverage. A truly memorable experience!
At Loews Coronado Bay Resort your romantic
gondola ride awaits you!
Photo by Michael Reiss The Gondola Company
Loews Coronado Bay Resort
4000 Coronado Bay Rd.
Coronado, Ca.
(619) 424 4000