TAO

Tao is a great and affordable Vietnamese restaurant, located on Adams Ave. Our meal started with a complementary salad accompanied by Tao-made fresh tofu. While I happen to love tofu, my husband is not a fan. He was happy to discover that the salad that accompanied the tofu was well seasoned and fresh. I thought the tofu is much better than the firm or slushy store-bought kind, and had great flavor (that’s a word I normally don’t use to describe tofu). It was light and refreshing, plus the fact that the portion was large, and FREE, made it even more delicious
The menu was fantastic! It was well laid out, easy to understand, well priced, and had a ton of vegetarian and even vegan options (a full page).We wanted to try lots of different things, since it’s a bit of a distance from home, we knew we weren’t going to be back in a week to try more things. We ordered the fresh salad rolls, the spring rolls - fried, the garlic chicken and the lemon-grass shrimp.


The salad rolls are a huge portion, I believe it’s about 4 large rolls, cut in half, so 8 large pieces. If you have a party of 2, you would be full on one order of salad rolls and an entrée. If you have a party of 4, the salad rolls are a great appetizer. They were fresh, well filled, and came with an amazing peanut sauce- overall: DELICIOUS! The fried spring rolls is what’s expected. If you’re choosing between the fresh and the fried, go with the fresh… Wow! I can’t believe I just said that… My weight scale would be proud!

Between the two entrees that we ordered, the garlic chicken was the clear winner over the lemon-grass shrimp. While I’m normally, a huge fan of lemon-grass, this particular dish laked pizazzzzzz. I can’t say it was bad, but the shrimp were on the small side and the sauce lacked a noticiable kick of lemon-grass. The chicken on the otherhand, was very well seasoned, tender, and flavorful. The sauce complemented the dish. Both entrees were served on large platters with rice. There was more than enough food. By the time we were done with the main course, we both had lunches ready for the next day.

To end the evening on a refreshing note, we received dual desserts, again, complements of the chef. A choice of ice-cream with a few pieces of fruit and delicious sauce. What an awesome touch! We both had the scoop of green-tea, which came with a few slices of strawberries and a delicious fruit sauce.

Eventhough, TAO is a little bit out of our way, we thoroughly enjoyed the food, the atmosphere, the reasonable prices, and the very cool vibe of Normal Heights.

 Check it out at:


TAO
Normal Heights
3332 Adams Ave.
(between 33rd St & Felton St)
San Diego, CA 92116
(619) 281-6888
Hours:


Tue-Sun. 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Tue-Sun. 5:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

GONE FOR TOO LONG!

Wow! Wanted to drop in and say hello to my blog. It's been way too long. I'm happy to say that I passed (shocked) the coding certification test that I've been studying for, so I now have more time to focus on my favorite subject: FOOD. Within the last couple of months, we've tried several interesting places worth mentioning: Crab Hut, Dumpling Inn, TAO, etc. Stay tuned for some fun reviews!

Wine Vault Bistro - menu for this Thursday and Friday!

I recommend checking out "Wine Vault" on Thursday or Friday (12/10 or 12/11). Reservations are highly recommended. Even if you're not a "drinker", the 3-course prix fixe bistro menu is usually fantastic or you can always order from the "regular" menu.  Vegetarian options are also available.

Details: TASTE OF PASO WINES + 3-COURSE NY STRIP LOIN DINNER - $20.00 per person, plus additional $15.00 for the optional wine pairing (Changes Weekly)

Taste of Paso Wine Flight (6 wines): $15
A Viognier, a Rose, a Rhone blend, a Sangiovese, a Zinfandel and finishing with L'Aventure's Optimus Cab/Syrah blend:  2-oz. tasting pours.

Here is the featured menu (Other menu items are available): $20
Appetizer: Salmon Tartare
Entree: NY Strip Loin
Dessert: Chocolate Mousse



Location and Parking off the Wine Vault web site:
"Wine Vault Bistro is located in the heart of San Diego between Little Italy and Old Town at 3731-A India Street on the upstairs terrace. Follow the black handrail up the stairs from the sidewalk to our front door. Our phone number is (619) 295-3939.

On-street parking is usually available within a 3-block radius. Remember that it’s OK to park in yellow commercial zones after 6:00 and that meters are also free after 6:00. You can also park in the lot behind Shakespeare Pub two doors down, but do not park in El Indio's lot unless you want your car towed! If you can’t find parking next to the restaurant, there’s always LOTS OF PARKING on San Diego Avenue and the adjacent side streets just past the Chevron station across Washington Street. There's also a huge pay parking lot ($1 per hour) at the Mission Brewery Building two blocks south at the corner of Washington & Hancock. (You'll have to take San Diego Avenue to Noell to Hancock to get there due to the one-way streets.) So please don't drive yourself crazy endlessly going around in circles waiting to pounce on that perfect spot when there's TONS OF PARKING less than three blocks away!"




Happy Eating and Drinking!

CANTINA

Hi All,

I feel like I've been socializing a lot lately (yey), but, going out a lot less. I did get the chance to try a great breakfast place worth writing about, called "Cantina". It's located in P.B.

The food is contemporary, clean, fresh, and makes you feel good after a huge plate! If you've been to "Coffee Cup" in La Jolla, the menu is basically the same, but with one major difference: very little meat on the menu. For all the vegetarians that are reading this, Cantina is for you! There is good variety on the menu and almost everything on the menu can pass for being "healthy"! If you're not vegetarian, and enjoy meat as much as I do, you can order a side of sausage or bacon. I particularly love the "Sage Sausage". It is absolutely delicious without being too oily, see picture! We went with our fellow food lovers and a "little foodie", who's almost one.  Cantina is a great place to come to with kids. They have "smiling" pancakes and lots of room for a stroller or high-chair (the only downside, is the bathroom is not equipped for changing a child).

I had a chance to glance at their personal cookbook. The recipes seemed simply, healthy, with an emphasis on fresh, modern, California cuisine, with a definite influence from Mexican food. Since I LOVE cookbooks, I would highly recommend you check it out: cantina-cookbook

Advice for the consumer:

We ordered 3 different plates and a pancake for my friend's little munchkin.  We had the Pesto Scramble, my friend had the Tamales, and the Carnitas (pulled pork) special.  This place is not a "cheap eat", be prepared to spend $9-14 on each plate. But, for good quality, healthy food, it's the going rate for a nice sit-down establishment.

Advice for the establishment:

The coffee mugs/cups, need to be changed out because they look old. Now, I know this place does a great job at keeping the place clean; cleanliness does not appear to be the issue. It's just that, the cups look like they've worked hard enough and need to retire. If you order tea or coffee, do yourself the favor and specify that you want it in a "to go" cup.
Our food was very good, but the tamales could definitely be improved by removing some of the sauce and adding pieces of corn to the mixture!


Overall, great experience without the guilt! Maybe, a little monetary guilt!

Details:

http://www.isabelscantina.com/isabels-cantina.php

966 Felspar St.,
Pacific Beach, CA 92109
858.272.8400

Breakfast/Lunch
Mon–Sun 8am–3pm
Dinner
Mon–Thur & Sun 5–9:30pm
Fri & Sat 5–10:30pm

POLL RESULTS

Looks like the majority of you voted that you go out to eat about 2-5 times per week.

I tend to do the same!

Hi All,

It has been a busy week... work, friend having an adorable baby, holidays, etc... but, we had a chance to visit a sushi place in University City called Nazomi. It is located at 4150 Regents Park Row, Suite 190 in La Jolla. The best way to think about the location, is that it's next to the Marriott, behind Einstein Brother's bagels and Starbucks. There is a great European Deli at the "inner" portion of the mall, called "Continent" that's definitely worth checking out ;)

When we got there on Friday around 7:30 p.m., the place seemed very busy. There were several tables that were empty but had not yet been cleaned. We chose to sit outside (inside seating was also available). It had a good vibe, we liked the bamboo looking/wood tables. It took a while for the waitress to bring out the menu and even longer to order the food. In total, we spent about 45 minutes between ordering and eating.

We ordered 3 rolls, which came with Miso soup. If we had known the size of the rolls, we would have ordered 2, because they are large! One of the rolls, was actually a combo of 2 rolls (2 half portions). The best one of the bunch was the Dragon Roll. These rolls are definitely creative, with sauce, and with lots of flare. Maybe, a bit too much flare and too many flavors. Two of the rolls had fire coming from beneath them when they were brought out. UPDATE: SEE PICTURES!

We looked around and saw several people eating the entrees instead of sushi. In particular, the chicken catsu looked delicious, and definitely enough for two to share. The salads also looked really good, topped with sashimi.

The prices are what's expected for "creative" rolls in the area, between $10-$15 per roll, with majority of the rolls in the $11.50 range, with a "free" miso soup. If you check out the web site there's a coupon for 10% off dinner. I would definitely be interested in returning and perhaps ordering a "hot" meal and a shrimp tempura roll, but keeping in mind that this is not a place to go if you're watching the time.


Advice for the establishment:
1) More help is needed on busy nights. The tables should be turned more quickly, not in a bad way, but the tables should be cleaned right after customers leave and a check should be brought out in a timely manner.
2) Orders should be taken soon after the customer arrives
3) Not sure if this is already taking place, but the "house water" does not taste filtered, tastes like tap.

Advice for consumer:
1) There is a great European deli, called "Continent" on the other side of the sushi restaurant.
2) Make sure when you plan a visit, you have plenty of time.
3) Miso soup is usually included with your order, don't order extra, unless you want two orders!
4) Order a drink, not sure if this establishment filters the water.

Overall recommendation:
If you're not in a hurry and don't want to drive to Akai Hana in Rb, this place has good rolls and seemingly better "hot/kitchen" entrees.


Details:
4150 Regents Park Row, Suite 190
La Jolla, CA 92037-9139

Hours of Operation:
Monday–Friday
11:00 a.m.–9:30 p.m.
Saturday
12:00 p.m.–9:30 p.m.
http://www.gonozomi.com/1281997.html

Pho Cali

Hi All,

Thank you for following and contributing to "our" blog.

I wanted to tell you about a Vietnamese place that we visited this weekend. It's called Pho Cali, located in Mission Valley. We went with our friends and their 11 month old. First of all, the place is very baby friendly. They were very quick to offer us a high-chair and the tile flooring was a practical choice. Although, there wasn't a children's menu, aside from rice. So, if you're coming with children, bring something from home. This is a very minimalistic establishment. Their menu is basically divided into 3 sections: 1) rice dishes 2) Vermicelli (noodles) 3) Pho. You also have the option of ordering spring rolls (fresh) or eggrolls (fried). Take a look at the menu on their site

Before I go on, I have to tell you that it's written on their menu that they use MSG and to notify the server if you're allergic to it. Since we are not allergic to MSG, and rarely consume it, we were not thrilled, but ok with the idea.

We ordered the fresh spring rolls (2 per order) for an appetizer. They were what we expected: soft rice-paper filled with rice noodles, bean sprouts, herbs, shrimp and pork, served with a peanut and Sriracha sauce. I honestly would have preferred the spring rolls without the pork, but we wanted to try them as stated.

For the main dish, my husband ordered the "not on the regular menu" fried rice with beef which was delicious. Perfectly fried rice with carrots, onions (specified green), a touch of garlic, and a generous portion of beef. I had the Vermicelli noodles (rice noodles) with bbq shrimp and eggrolls, # 28 on the menu. I was surprised to find out that there were only 4 shrimp served in the bowl. I expected at least a couple more since they were the (30-40 count variety). The eggroll portion was ample and made up for the lack of shrimp, about 3 eggrolls cut into small pieces. Since I LOVE fried food, I was just fine with the outcome. The food tasted very fresh. Our friends both ordered the Pho, which is the house specialty. Pho is Vietnamese beef broth with lots of toppings: herbs, bean sprouts, veggies, and optional meat. I asked for reviews and they were very happy with the taste.

For a Pho establishment this place is not cheap. Rice and noodle dishes are around $7.00 each and the Pho is around $6.00 for a bowl. While we enjoyed our food, I can't say that I would rush back. Maybe, because I feel like you have to be in the mood specifically for Pho, it is quite good, but a unique taste. I think this location would profit from offering more variety. Vietnamese cuisine is so diverse and delicious, yet so many of the San Diego restaurants don't offer what I call "saucy" dishes: lemongrass chicken, spicy chicken, lemongrass shrimp, etc. Vietnamese food is not all soups, rice, and noodles, and I wish that was better represented in San Diego.

If you've visited Pho Hoacali Express on Mira Mesa Blvd (also an RB location), it is almost an identical experience with almost identical prices. My overall review is somewhat neutral... the place is clean and if Pho is your thing then it's worth checking out.


Advice for the establishment:
Offer more Variety. Diversify the menu

Advice for consumer:
1) If you cannot find parking behind the restaurant, park next to Best Buy or in the Pier One parking lot.

2) This place is very humble and "not fancy". If you're expecting an elegant atmosphere, this place is not for you.

3) This place is an ideal quick lunch or dinner

4) Pho is GREAT for a hangover. It definitely possesses therapeutic principles.

5) Vietnamese drinks and coffee (with condensed milk) are served here.

Overall recommendation:
If you're in the mood for soup or a simple quick bite, check out Pho Cali!

Details:
(619) 542-1062

1400 Camino De La Reina #105

Mission Valley, CA 92018

open 7 days a week

9:30AM- 9:30PM

http://pho1cali.com

Hash House

Hash House A-Gogo is an icon in San Diego. Located at 3628 5th Ave, it's a place where the portions are huge and the presentation is mouth watering. The place serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner; breakfast being my personal favorite. Be prepared to wait, ranging from 20 minutes up to an hour and a half! My suggestion for this establishment is not an easy one; they need to E-X-P-A-N-D. While this might be a costly move, it would be a smart one. Take advice from Phil at Phil's BBQ! A small place turned to a BBQ empire. Anyways, I diverge...but make a point. The problem that I've been encountering with Hash House is the service. Since it's such a small place with a huge demand (the lovely supply and demand), the waiters try to turn tables TOO quickly. The food is definitely good, and the portions are huge, but the service needs to be improved.
We recently dined with 2 other couples (6 people total). Between the 6 of us, we ordered several items off the menu. The French toast was outstanding. Huge portion with thick slices of well flavored triangles. Nuts were also a great addition as a topping. I do have to advise, that there was a lot of cinnamon in the batter. I actually adore cinnamon, but for those that don't care for it, should abstain from the dish. Another couple ordered the pancake. Imagine the biggest skillet at your house being used to make one giant pancake. This was a particularly appealing breakfast item! It was thick, moist, and a true example of what an OVERSIZED pancake should be! I ordered the Roasted Chicken Hash. Basically, an oversized portion of potatoes, roasted chicken, onions, and asparagus topped with your choice of eggs. Potatoes could have definitely been improved, they were not cooked through. Overall, we enjoyed our breakfast with good OJ and Lattes.

Advice for the establishment:
EXPAND

Advice for consumer:
1) Put your name down and go run errands, otherwise, be prepared to wait

2) Come with a group

3) Order a singe item for 2-3 people

4) Order the lemonade

5) Ask for your potatoes to be cooked "extra crispy"; otherwise you might be stuck with ones that are undercooked.

Overall recommendation:
If you haven't been, you must go!

Details:
Hash House A-Gogo

http://www.hashhouseagogo.com/

3628 5th Ave

San Diego, CA 92103-4220

(619) 298-4646

Eating through the great San Diego

Welcome!

I wanted to create a blog about eating at various places in San Diego.  Occasionally, I will feature places from my travels. San Diego is such a diverse place with so many food options. Everyone knows that I do not discriminate! I eat at all places from "a small hole in the wall" to an occasional splurge. I hope you contribute your own comments and reviews. In addition, I want this to be a place of sharing. Not just sharing opinions, but providing a place where chefs (both big and small) can come to learn ways to improve their cuisine. If I publish a less than favorable review, I'm going to suggest a way to improve. Perhaps, one good thing that came from the corporate world is that you can't complain and not provide a solution. With this in mind, "our" blog is a place that can be used by both the provider of food and consumer. I hope you enjoy it and find it useful. Please share your reviews, recipes, and suggestions. Happy cooking and savoring!