Garden Fresh Grill

Three of us lunched at this restaurant located in the Vons square at the corner of El Cajon and College during the week of 2/7/11. You order at the counter, and your food is brought to you. My two friends each ordered vegetarian platters of different types and were very pleased with the quality of ingredients, preparation, and portions. I ordered lamb shish kabobs, and they came with hummus, pita, salad and pilaf--plenty of food (I couldn't finish it all.) I had specified medium-rare for the kabobs, but they came out well done. (It is hard to convince wait staff that you want your lamb rare.) Although overcooked, the lamb had been marinated in a spicy mix and had good flavor. The menu also offered several chicken and beef sandwiches and plates. The waiter (the manager?) was also willing to make substitutions to combo platters. Among the appetizers were the usual suspects: baba ganoush, hummus, tabouli, spanakopita, and so forth. They were fresh and zesty. Beverages included bottled and canned sodas, fountain sodas, iced tea. Good value, friendly service, clean and bright surroundings.
— February 16, 2011 5:43 p.m.

Prim and Proper

Good to know that the menu from Rosie's is available at this wine bar. The chiles rellenos are fantastic, and my sweetie swears by the (yawn) fish and chips (but what's an Irish pub without fish and chips? and, besides, they are pretty good!) I look forward to sampling some of those Friday specialty wines!
— February 16, 2011 5:21 p.m.

Pho Forager

Thanks for the reviews, KK. I've learned a lot from you on Chowhound. So, good to see you in the Reader (NW: are you on vacation?) Since I live near Linda Vista, the LV comments are most welcome, but I realize I must venture out of my comfort zone to try other pho. And, whoa, I really wish I could get into tendon. (first time I saw it on a menu 20+ years ago, I thought it was a misspelling for "tenderloin." Ha HA!)
— January 16, 2011 7:57 p.m.

One Thousand Ways to Die

...and, honestly and deadpan serious, pretty much screwed, yet thankful...for something.
— November 23, 2010 3:05 p.m.

San Diego Copper Chimney Food Truck

I've read about this truck on chowhound.com several times over the last six or so months, but since I knew nothing about the food of Southern India, and the insiders on the website already knew what they were talking about regarding "dosas" and "idlis" and so forth, I didn't have a clue--except that the food offered was genuine and of high quality. But now, having read your descriptions, I am ready to head on over there--I have a passion for chutneys, so the golden flute with condiments sounds like it for me! Thanks!
— November 10, 2010 6:15 p.m.

Famous Breakfast Man

Wow! I have driven past that place a million times...Took the University exit off 805 south, headed toward the post office, looked across and saw it--the counters inside. Drove on by. Time to slow down. Stop and live what's goin' on. Thanks for the good news.
— August 4, 2010 5:27 p.m.

You're Not in Guaymas Anymore

Corvina used to be locally available--caught off the Coronado Islands. I remember ordering it at the Red Sails Inn many times, but I don't think I've seen it on a menu here in recent years. Baquetta sea bass is pretty good. Los Arcos must have something going for it because it is very crowded on weekends at both lunch and dinner. In fact, although some friends live a few blocks away from the place, we haven't tried it--the parking lot is always just too crowded.
— July 21, 2010 5:35 p.m.

Whole New World

I am so happy to read this review. The Shores always had the advantage of the great view (and maybe a walk on the beach after the meal), but when I last dined there--about 2 years ago--nothing on my plate was particularly good. Edible, yes--memorable, no. But now, the bisque, the mussels, the rack of lamb, the stuffed avocado, the wine possibilities--it all sounds great: just in time for late summer sunsets. Thanks, Naomi (and I hope to thanks the chef in person).
— June 23, 2010 2:38 p.m.

Whole New World

I am so happy to read this review. The Shores always had the advantage of the great view (and maybe a walk on the beach after the meal), but when I last dined there--about 2 years ago--nothing on my plate was particularly good. Edible yes--memorable, no. But now, the bisque, the mussels, the rack of lamb, the stuffed avocado, the wine possibilities--it all sounds great: just in time for late summer sunsets. Thanks, Naomi (and I hope to thanks the chef in person).
— June 23, 2010 2:38 p.m.

The Maine Event

In defense of King's: (1) It's centrally located with easy parking and decent restrooms. (OK, OK, that's not much of a defense, but these things matter.) (2). In eight years, as wholesale prices have risen, restaurants seem to have tried to keep customers by NOT raising prices. This often means smaller portions or extras eliminated. What we hope for is that quality remains. For me, the quality at King's has been consistent--in terms of both food and service. (3) As a "regular," (and often a solo diner), I find King's very comfortable. I have learned my way around the menu. I realize that EVERYTHING should be good, but knowing I have not reached Nirvana, I have discovered what I consistently enjoy. And I NEVER order sushi there--it's just not a sushi place. Of course, for each of us, what is "good" varies. I myself look forward to the great sourdough. The red seafood chowder is spicy and satisfying. Likewise, the white bean and smoked salmon soup is quite tasty, especially in cold weather. I don't order the side salads because, as Ms. Wise pointed out, they now cost ya--like $5! When I am feeling flush, I might order a Mexican shrimp cocktail--always very fresh, with a tantalizing sauce. I usually order mesquite-grilled fish from the "what is fresh today" list. I like their sea bass, swordfish, mako shark, dorado, halibut, wild salmon, skewers of Mexican white shrimp,skewers of scallops... Every season brings specials. Right now there is the Maine lobster fest that Ms. Wise described. In January (or sooner), they will serve California spiny lobster for a few months.) Some of the specials have been terrific, and some lackluster. I once had a swordfish piccata that was edible but just...weird. And I avoid macadamia-crusted anything. I am a fish and chips fan, but since I prefer beer-battered, and theirs is breaded, I just stay away from the fried stuff. Of the "sidekicks" offered (two per entree), I usually choose the garlic mash, the garlic-sauteed spinach, or the parsley potatoes. The ratatouille is over-spiced. And I like the cole slaw all right. (Cole slaw is a tricky salad, and this one is do-able. After all, we need our cruciferous veggies!) (4) A group of about 25 people gathered with me to celebrate my 60th birthday two years ago at King's in Carlsbad. Everyone--even the kids--seemed very pleased with their meals. We shared a few desserts (nothing fabulous, but certainly yummy). Everyone agreed King's is a good choice for a crowd. I guess I would sum this up by saying that if you know what you like at King's, you're a happy diner once you arrive. If you live in one of the two zillion condos or apartments in Mission Valley, it's comforting to know that you're within walking distance of King's. But if it is a special meal, or you are out there trying to be adventuresome, I'd go along with Ms. Wise's score of 2.5--maybe 2.75. For the best seafood, head west! And don't forget your fishin' pole!
— May 26, 2010 6:07 p.m.