We may not all be food critics, but one thing’s for certain — we make it our job to stay abreast of the latest, and greatest, around town. Here, we share a few of our favorite palate pleasers.
Nine-Ten
Enter the world of culinary excellence at Nine-Ten in picturesque La Jolla. Executive chef Jason Knibb is a master gastronomist who eloquently redefines California cuisine with passion, flavor, and presentation. Throw yourself at the mercy of this chef and try his tasting menu, you won’t regret it! (858/964-5400, www.nine-ten.com) MARIA DESIDERATA MONTANA
Kitchen 1540
Is it the inventive food, the fabulous view, or the fact that this seaside resort in Del Mar has long been a special place to celebrate with family and friends? L’Auberge Del Mar, with its Kitchen 1540, is that place to me, from a date night with my husband to a girls’ night out. The salads, seafood, and other fare by chef Paul McCabe make this my hands down favorite. (858/793-6460, www.laubergedelmar.com) ANDREA NAVERSEN
The Museum Cafe
The Museum Cafe offers delicious salads (shrimp and papaya is my favorite), great soups, grilled items, and creative sandwiches. As the name suggests, it’s located at the La Jolla branch of MCASD. Much of the seating is outdoors — a safe bet in sunny San Diego — amidst the white pillars of the building’s facade. Giuseppe Ciuffa gets the credit for this bistro’s success. Additional credit goes to a staff of very attentive and genuinely friendly waiters. (858/456-6427, www.mcasdcafe.com) ELIZABETH HANSEN
Mamma Chia
In four tasty flavors that are fun to drink (try one and you’ll see what I mean), Mamma Chia contains chia seeds — yes, as in Chia Pets — ancient grains long revered for their natural healing powers. Gluten-free and vegan, each drink packs 2,000 mg of Omega-3s and 10 grams of fiber. What’s more, this local company donates one percent of gross sales to farmers, community groups, and organizations that are building healthy, local food systems. Pick some up at Seaside Market. (www.mammachia.com) MIA STEFANKO
Chino Farm
The sign says The Vegetable Shop. For 42 years, the Chino family has operated a vegetable stand like no other on Calzada del Bosque in Rancho Santa Fe. With a clientele of regular folks looking for the best ingredients available, to local and celebrity chefs such as Wolfgang Puck of Spago and Alice Waters of Chez Panisse, Chino Farm has earned its place as the best in San Diego. Like my dad used to say: “Use the right tool for the right job” — this family certainly produces all the right tools. BOB STEFANKO
Hexagone
Hexagone’s fan base is growing. My favorite selection once again, this sophisticated mid-town restaurant serves exquisite classic and contemporary French and updated California cuisine, with really beautiful presentation. Enjoy special themed dinners and live musical performances that sell out most of the time. Add free transportation to the nearby Old Globe Theatre as a perk. (619/236-0467, www.hexagone.thechamberworks.com) DARLENE G. DAVIES
Fluxx
When you’re in the mood for live entertainment, dancing to a top DJ, or simply absorbing the non-stop action, San Diego has the right address. Fluxx was created with the kind of talent and imagination that’s found in the nation’s top clubs. Ten-thousand LED lights with 26 movable projectors and amazing sound set the mood Friday and Saturday evenings with special performances on Thursdays. (619/232-8100, www.fluxxsd.com) BRIAN DOUGLAS
Americana
Americana continues to be a favorite of mine. Located on the corner of Camino Del Mar and 15th Street in Del Mar, the location can’t be beat and owner/chef Randy Gruber never disappoints with the menu either. Two of my favorites are the Grilled Corn & Chicken Quesadilla and the Asparagus Risotto. (858/794-6838, www.americanarestaurant.com) COLLETTE STEFANKO
West Steak Seafood & Spirits
For happier hours that go above and beyond, head to West. Think of it more like “dinner in the bar,” with featured menu items including Beef Bourguignon, Shrimp Fettucine, Seared Jumbo Sea Scallops, Ahi Tartar, Peppered Filet Carpaccio, Surf and Turf Ravioli, Braised Pork Osso Buco, and much more. These delectable dishes, served up in West’s vibrant atmosphere, are rivaled only by an impressive array of cocktails and wine specials. (760/930-9100, www.weststeakandseafood.com) RINA VAN ORDEN
Addison
For the “I’ve died and gone to heaven experience,” Addison is must. From the moment you enter, the staff caters to your every whim. Relais & Châteaux Grand Chef William Bradley’s eight-course tasting menu with wine pairings is unparalleled. Every course, from the Hiramasa Crudo with dashi, uni, and totsoi to the Parmesan Risotto with toasted fennel and cured lemon foam, and the Lamb Rack Persille, had me in “foodie heaven.” (858/314-1900, www.addisondelmar.com) TIFFANY DEBBAS
