San Diego Reader

New restaurants are cropping up around town lately, and this week our installation of $40 Date centers on Thai eatery Plumeria Vegetarian (4661 Park Blvd) which replaced Savory Deli.

Plumeria's interior

On a hot August day, Plumeria was pleasantly cool and serving only two other tables at the time. We ordered the spring rolls ($4.95) made with soft rice wrappers and fresh, crisp sprouts, lettuce, mint and hearty tofu. The spring rolls were accompanied with a tangy peanut sauce and a sweet orange peel marmalade.

For entrees, we had the See Ew with veggies and steamed tofu though diners have the option of vegetarian chicken, vegetarian beef, vegetarian pork, and vegetarian shrimp ($8.50-9.50). The dishes were cooked to order so the noodles were al dente and spiced to request, and the vegetables tasted fresh and not soggy. Service was friendly and laid-back but efficient.

Afterward, take advantage of University Heights where you can purchase British specialty items like elderflower soda or order tea service at Rosie Lee's British Foods. Stroll north to Adams Ave to the Trolley Park and sunbathe while watching the neighborhood dogs play. Or walk south on Park Blvd and grab a chai or coffee at Twigg's or Lestat's where locals go to chat, people-watch, and work.