North County Dining Guide

Coffee & Breakfast | American & Deli | Sushi | Surf & Turf | Italian | Mexican

Enticing Entrees of North County

By Pam Penner

Not so long ago, residents of North County had to drive elsewhere for a special meal...maybe downtown to the Gaslamp District, Old Town, Little Italy, or into trendy La Jolla, for more exotic cuisine. Well it's no longer necessary. Let us guide you on a culinary journey that will please even the most discerning palate, and entice you to pick up the phone and book a reservation tonight.

In a scene from the movie Julie & Julia, Meryl Streep, playing the part of Julia Child, is in bed pouring over a copy of the acclaimed culinary encyclopedia, Larousse Gastronomique. We decided to go to that source and look up its definition of the term entrée; and what we found is quite interesting. The book says, "Although in French the word entree literally means ‘beginning,’ it does not in the culinary sense mean first course, as some people seem to believe. The entree is the course, which, in a full French menu, follows the releve (remove) or intermediate course which, in its turn, follows the fish (or whatever dish may be served in place of it). In other words, the entree is the third course."

So here we are...no starter, no soup or salad, just the main attraction! What are you in the mood for? A sumptuous "Maple Leaf Duck prepared Two Ways," in a port wine reduction, from Mille Fleurs in Rancho Santa Fe? Or "Turkey Mole Tamales,” from the new-to-Carlsbad Casa de Bandini? We've sampled the best of the best and have all the mouthwatering results right here.

We want to give a very special thanks to all the gracious restaurant owners, general managers, and chefs who welcomed us into their fine establishments to photograph and sample their delicious entrees. And to our readers: we hope you enjoy these entrée photos. It was a wonderful experience for us, and we hope you will be enticed to step out this holiday season and try them.

Bon Appetit!

Diane Power’s Casa de Bandini now in Carlsbad

Casa de Bandinis move north from Old Town after 25 years to the Forum in Carlsbad brings the same romantic essence of Old Mexico — reminiscent of the original location with lavish dining rooms, enchanted lighting and lush landscaping.

Once again, Casa de Bandini guests are dining under colorful umbrellas on beautiful outdoor patios and enjoying Bandini’s famous giant margaritas. Indoors, guests are enjoying cozy dining rooms, alive with fine Mexican folk art and hand-painted walls — capturing much of the flavor of its former location.

At The Forum, Powers’ flair and style once again enhances the charm of Mexican décor that contributed to Bandini’s original Old Town success. Back are comfortable equipale chairs and hand-wrought iron railing and gates; the colorful, hand-woven Zapotec fabric covers; and a charming hand-carved stone fountain framed by a large Talavara-tiled pool. The addition of Powers’ antique cantina cabinet from the early 1900s and stained glass doors — reclaimed from the former Casa de Bandini — complete the effect.

Using the freshest ingredients and a multitude of sauces to make the unforgettable authentic regional cuisine, Casa de Bandini’s menu showcases past favorites as well as innovative new entrees, celebrated seafood dishes, several healthy choice options, a children’s menu and, of course, the same frothy, frosty, giant margaritas that have become a staple at each of Powers’ restaurants — Casa de Pico in La Mesa and Casa Guadalajara in Old Town.

This holiday season, you won’t want to miss their famous traditional turkey mole tamales. And, on the way back from their tortilla and salsa bar you may want to follow up with a giant Cadillac Margarita.

For more information about catering or private and/or group reservations call (760) 634-3443 or visit www.casadebandini.com. Casa de Bandini is open daily Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and is located at 1901 Calle Barcelona Carlsbad, Calif. 92009.

56 Million Bubbles Can’t All Be Wrong

By Stephen Chappell

“Come quickly, I am tasting the stars!” –Dom Perignon

Like the countless stars in the universe, so seems the myriad of bubbles in a glass of Champagne. The monk, Dom Perignon erroneously credited with inventing Champagne, realized that the Champenoise were on to something unique. Indeed, the development of Champagne was a fortuitous accident!

The cold climate in the Champagne region of France, excellent for growing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes, arrests fermentation and leaves unfermented grape sugars in the wine. Wines bottled during the winter ferment again in the spring, creating those pesky bubbles. Eventually, vintners came to appreciate the special qualities the bubbles brought to the wine and began to control the secondary fermentation that occurs in the bottle. This process became known as the methode Champenoise and Champagne became the standard by which all other sparkling wines are judged.

What is it about Champagne that inspires such praise? Its liveliness renews the soul and invigorates the body and it has become the standard for toasting on special occasions. Champagne, as well as other sparkling wines, is perhaps the best food wine of them all. Yes, Champagne, first and foremost a wine, pairs extremely well with a variety of foods. The acid that gives Champagne its special vibrancy, along with the action of the bubbles, makes it the ultimate palate cleanser. Champagne can make even the humble potato chip a gustatory delight.

Always welcome at the Thanksgiving table, Chateau De L’Aulee Cremant de Loire, from the Loire Valley, is made in the methode Champenoise from Chenin Blanc grapes blended with a little Chardonnay; wonderfully dry, crisp on the palate with the flavor of ripe pears. You can serve it as an aperitif before your Thanksgiving feast and enjoy it all the way through dinner to the pumpkin pie!

Spain's version of Champagne is Cava, Catalan for cave or cellar. These wines come from the Penedes region in northeast Spain and are blends of three native grapes; Macabeo, Parellada and Xarel-lo. Cava is made in the traditional Champagne method and is lemony and earthy in flavor. Compared to Champagne, Cava is more fruity but less frothy and complex. Gran Gesta Cava from Catalonia, Spain is a lovely example. Also made in the Champagne method, it has a bouquet of fresh apples and butterscotch with a hint of pineapple and raisins.

The most famous sparkling wine of Italy is Prosecco, made in the Veneto region in the Charmat process. Most Prosecco is dry and somewhat fruity, but some are made in an off-dry style. Bubbly Prosecco is a refreshing aperitif for afternoon get-togethers. South Africa boasts a Brut Rose from Simonsig that’s primarily Pinotage with a kiss of Pinot Noir, a combination also perfect for Thanksgiving. It’s a full-flavored, dry Rose with a rosy salmon color, and the bouquet of rose petals and red berries.

With the holidays approaching, thoughts turn to “bubblies”. Duval Leroy “Paris” Brut Champagne has a deep blue bottle glittering with a gold-painted cityscape of “the City of Lights” by American artist LeRoy Neiman. It's light, with a touch of lemon and butter, wonderful to drink, and beautiful to gift. Always a wine for celebrating life’s special moments, the bubblies of the world also deserve attention as serious food wines. Lily Bolinger said it best, “I only drink Champagne when I’m happy, and when I’m sad. Sometimes I drink it when I’m alone. When I have company, I consider it obligatory. I trifle with it if I am not hungry and drink it when I am. Otherwise I never touch it – unless I’m thirsty.”

Most of the sparkling wines mentioned above (and more!) can be found this holiday season at WineStyles located at 191 N. El Camino Real, #103, Encinitas CA 92024. You can reach them at (760) 633-0057. Also, ask them about their extensive calendar of nightly events!

New Enoteca Zin Italian Restaurant Now Open in La Costa

If you haven’t already seen the new ENOTECA ZIN sign that has recently replaced Fresco, then you probably haven’t driven by it yet on your way to Henry’s in La Costa.
Owner, artist, and restaurateur, James Scrivano, recently opened Enoteca Zin in the Los Coches Shopping Center at Camino de Los Coches and Rancho Santa Fe Road just across the street from Stagecoach Park and a couple of blocks from La Costa Canyon High School.

Scrivano, a warm and friendly guy, wants everyone to know how much he wants to be involved and part of the local community and says, “I know how important it is to reach out to the community. I want residents to come in a feel like our restaurant is their restaurant.”

The Italian cuisine is deliciously delightful, and the full wine bar inviting. The interior setting is elegant and sophisticated, but unassuming, with a beautifully painted mural and other wonderful Italian-style paintings adorning the walls. Outside, sit and enjoy a relaxing afternoon meeting or share a lovely dinner experience with that special someone.

Mention their ad from this issue before you order, and they’ll deduct 20% off your meal, not including alcoholic beverages or sales tax. Minimum $50 order per table.

Visit James Scrivano at Enoteca Zin at 3263 Camino De Los Coches #105, Carlsbad CA 92009. Call (760) 479-1525.

The Broken Yolk Café Serving Breakfast and Lunch

Looking for a great breakfast or lunch with excellent service in a comfortable, affordable, and casual atmosphere? Owner Alex Kartsub invites you to sample one of his many home cooked meals that include over twenty different omelets to choose from, a variety of pancakes, waffles, and French toast.

Feel like digging into a big lunch? You’ll be very satisfied by ordering one of their famous and juicy ? pound burgers or one of their large sandwiches. They also have great home-style soups and large salads.

One of San Diego County’s most popular daytime restaurants, the Broken Yolk Café has been serving satisfied guests breakfast and lunch for over 30 years. They now have locations in The Gas Lamp District, Pacific Beach, Eastlake and La Costa.

Visit The Broken Yolk Café in La Costa located at 7670 El Camino Real, Carlsbad CA 92009 (at the corner of La Costa Ave and El Camino Real). Call (760) 943-8182 or visit www.thebrokenyolkcafe.com.

6th Annual San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival Features Celebrities

Nov. 18-22, Wednesday-Sunday

Producers of the 6th Annual San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival (November 18-22) announced the line-up of celebrity chefs, winemakers, and culinary personalities appearing in the event’s weeklong celebration of all things wine and food. The award-winning festival is Southern California’s largest wine and food event, attracting thousands to the city of San Diego in pursuit of a world-class epicurean experience, said Michelle Metter, the Festival’s co-producer.

Legendary food and wine experts participating in the San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival includes James Beard, Foundation Award winner for “Best American Chef, Southwest,” Chef Alex Stratta of the two-star Michelin rated ALEX at the Wynn Las Vegas, Cooking Light Magazine’s Executive Chef Billy Strynkowski, Peter Mondavi Jr. of Robert Mondavi Family Wines, James Beard Foundation Award winner for “Best Chef,” Chef Paul Bartolotta of Bartolotta at the Wynn Las Vegas, celebrity television star Sam Zien of “Sam the Cooking Guy,” among many others.

The Festival will host several action-packed cooking and wine tasting classes taught by the country’s finest chefs, sommeliers, winemakers, and culinary personalities. Held at the Macy’s School of Cooking and the San Diego Wine & Culinary Center on November 19 & 20, the celebrity chefs and wine experts participating in this year’s Festival will strut their stuff in interactive and engaging classes. Each chef hosting a cooking class will prepare a series of mouth-watering dishes with instruction and recipes provided so that attendees can make the dishes at home. Cooking class attendees will taste their host’s cuisine paired with one of the wineries featured at this year's Festival. Wine tasting classes feature discussions led by award-winning winemakers, sommeliers and master sommeliers from around the world. Guests will sample between five and seven wines per wine tasting class.

In addition to their classes, many of these celebrity chefs, winemakers, and culinary personalities will be present at the Grand Tasting Event held on November 21. The Grand Event features 170 wineries, 70 of San Diego’s top fine dining restaurants, 30 gourmet food companies, the action-packed “Chef of the Fest” competition, live entertainment, and more. Tickets start at $125.

A complete schedule of events is available online at www.worldofwineevents.com. Tickets may be purchased online or by calling (619) 342-7337.

Mmm...Mmm...Good! Souper Signature Soup Selections of North County

By: Bridget Smith and our Soup Correspondents

Baby it’s cold outside, but not too cold. You’re hungry, and want something tasty, nutritious and hot, but you don’t want to fire up the stove, or get in the car and drive too far. We put together a select group of fastidious soup sippers, and came up with our very own hot list of delicious soups that we’d like to share with you!

First we asked our friends what their favorite soup spots were and then added some of our own. In spite of our best efforts, we may have overlooked some of your favorite soup spots, and some places just didn’t get back to us after multiple phone messages. Let us hear from you so that we can include them in a follow-up article. Email the name of the restaurant, location, and the name of their signature soup to info@HotinNorthCounty.com. Please title your email “Hot Soup.”

Many North County restaurants serve their special signature soups; some offer a menu of customer favorites; and others present a fresh take on classic soups that feature local produce or the catch of the day. A cup of soup is a delightful way to start your meal, or it can be the main entrée. If you’re watching your wallet, a bowl of hearty soup is a healthy and affordable option for lunch or dinner, especially when accompanied by a fresh crispy salad and some piping hot bread.

As our North County Soup tasting adventure has shown us, soups can be prepared in a multitude of ways. Traditionally, soups are classified as clear soups and thick soups. Clear soups usually have a broth base and include bouillon or consommé. Thick soups are classified by their thickening agent. Purèes are vegetable soups thickened with starch; bisques are traditionally made from pureed shellfish and thickened with cream. Cream based pureed vegetable soups are sometimes referred to as bisques. Cream soups are thickened with béchamel sauce. Veloutès are thickened with eggs, butter and cream. Other thickening agents are rice, flour, and grain. Thai-inspired soup can take the form of a creamy bisque or a rich broth based soup.

North County has a wide variety of local restaurants where you can experience a bit of the culture and try the different soups from many countries. So take a friend out to lunch or dinner and treat yourselves to one of the scrumptious soups profiled in this article. Happy soup sipping!

Argyle Steakhouse and Clubhouse Debut New Design

Design by a Beverly Hills Interior Design Firm

The Aviara Golf Clubhouse and The Argyle Steakhouse at the Four Seasons Resort Aviara have just unveiled an exciting re-design, inspired in part by their unique locale beside the tidal wetlands of the Batiquitos Lagoon. The interior has been revitalized to reflect a "California Coastal" impression, according to Beverly Hills interior design firm Cheryl Rowley Design.

The new space boasts a modern and elegant ambiance. Creamy white wainscoting is paired with deep walnut and mahogany wood finishes as backdrop to the fresh update. A neutral palette of fabrics in rich textures, with accents of celadon and teal tones, add brightness. Graphic patterns and contemporary finishes complete the look.

"The Argyle Steakhouse, which opened last year, has already been a tremendous success with resort guests and locals alike," says Robert Cima, Regional Vice President and General Manager of Four Seasons Resort Aviara. "The final touch on this gem is this beautiful redesign. The contemporary steakhouse menu, intuitive service and new décor all combine to create a truly memorable dining experience."

For more information on the Argyle's breakfast, lunch and dinner options, please call (760) 603-6908. The Four Seasons Resort Aviara is at 7100 Four Seasons Point, Carlsbad, CA 92011. Visit www.fourseasons.com/aviara.

North County Dining Guide

Coffee and Breakfast

 A Little Moore Coffee Shop

1030 N. Coast Hwy 101, Leucadia, CA 92024 (760) 753-8228

Al's Café in the Village

795 Carlsbad Village Drive, Carlsbad, CA (760) 729-5448

Bruegger's Bagels

7680 El Camino Real, Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 632-1432

Carlsbad Danish Bakery

2805 Roosevelt St., Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 729-6186

Café Elysa

3076 Carlsbad Blvd. Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 434-4100

Carlsbad Danish Bakery

2805 Roosevelt St., Carlsbad, CA 92009  (760) 729-6186

Carlsbad French Pastry Café

1005 Carlsbad Village Drive, Carlsbad. CA 92009 (760) 729-2241

Cocos Café

407 Encinitas Blvd., Encinitas, CA 92024 (760)436-6023

Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf

2508 El Camino Real, Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 720-1381

Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf

1935 Calle Barcelona, Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 634-3268

E Street Café

128/130 W. E Street, Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 944-1107

Expo Café

1550 Leucadia Blvd., Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 632-0919

Garden State Bagels

5620 Paseo del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 804-1800

Garden State Bagels

191 N. El Camino, Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 942-2435

Jammers Java

218 N. El Camino Real, Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 943-6272

Ki's Juice and Restaurant

2591 S. Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 436-5236

La Costa Coffee Roasting

2525 El Camino Real, Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 434-3233

La Costa Coffee Roasting

6965 El Camino Real, Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 438-8160

Leucadia Donut Shop

1604 N. Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 942-8981

Marie Callendar's

5980 Avenida Encinas, Carlsbad, CA 92011 (760)434-3929

Mozy Café

696 N. Coast Hwy 101, Leucadia, CA 92024 (760) 695-9082

Noa's Bakery

5671 Palmer Way, Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 804-9966

Original Pancake House

944 Melrose Dr. Vista, CA (760) 758-3441

Pannikin Coffee and Tea

510 N. Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 436-0033

Pipes Café

121 Liverpool Drive, Encinitas, CA 92024  (760) 632-0056

Potato Shack Café

120 W. I Street, Encinitas, CA 92024 (760)436-1282

Pronto's Gourmet Market

2812 Roosevelt St., Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 434-2644

Santa Fe Café

445 Santa Fe Drive, Encinitas, CA 92024  (760) 436-0646

St. Germain's Café

1010 S.Coast Hwy, Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 753-5411

Seattle's Best Coffee

1905 Calle Barcelona, Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 436-9623

Starbucks

2924 Carlsbad Blvd. Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 434-0866

Starbucks

5620 Paseo del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 804-9355

Starbucks

7680 El Camino Real, Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 943-8004

Starbucks

2560 El Camino Real, Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 729-2771

Starbucks

6951 El Camino Real, Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 431-0157

Starbucks

947 S. Coast Hwy, Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 318-1575

Swami's Café

1163 S. Coast Hwy, Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 944-0612

Swami's Café

1163 S. Coast Hwy, Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 944-0612

The 101 Diner

552 S. Coast Hwy, Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 753-2123

Top of the Bagel

2540 El Camino Real, Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 729-4647

Top of the Bagel

6955 El Camino Real, Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 930-0227

Vinaka Café

300 Carlsbad Village Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 720-7890

V.G Donut & Bakery

106 Aberdeen Drive Cardiff, Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 753-2400

American and Deli

Chicken Pie Diner & Filling Station

Marie Callendar's

5980 Avenida Encinas, Carlsbad, CA 92011 (760)434-3929

Pipes Café

121 Liverpool Drive, Encinitas, CA 92024  (760) 632-0056

Potato Shack Café

120 W. I Street, Encinitas, CA 92024 (760)436-1282

Pronto's Gourmet Market

2812 Roosevelt St., Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 434-2644

Tip Top Meats

Hogg's Barbeque

Sushi

Akita Japanese Restaurant

330 W Felicita Av Escondido, CA (760) 746-4131

Benihana

755 Raintree Dr. Carlsbad, CA 92011 (760) 929-8311

Hana Japanese Restaurant

2415 Vista Way, Oceanside, CA (760) 439-3283

Izumi Restaurant

12245 Poway Rd., Poway, CA (858) 391-3080

Japan House

12205 Scripps Poway Pkwy, Poway, CA (858) 549-1818

Leucadia Sushi

996 N. Coast Hwy, Leucadia, CA (760) 635-9312

Sushi House

214 N. El Camino Real, Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 633-1088

Sushi on the Rock

1923 Calle Barcelona, Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 436-6261

Teri Café

2249 El Camino Real, Oceanside, CA (760) 722-8399

Surf and Turf

Blue Fire Grill-La Costa Resort

2100 Costa Del Mar Rd, Carlsbad, CA (760) 929-6306

Fish House Veracruz

360 Via Vera Cruz, San Marcos, CA (760) 744-8000

Meritage

897 South Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 634-3350

Savory

267 El Camino Real, Encinitas, Ca 92024 (760) 634-5556

Red Tracton's

550 Via de la Valle, Solana Beach, CA  (858) 755-6600

Red Lobster

2685 Vista Way, Oceanside, CA (760) 433-5623

Tommy V's Steak and Seafood

7670 El Camino Real, Carlsbad CA (760) 943-8182

Charlie's By The Sea

2526 S. Coast Hwy 101, Cardiff, CA 92024 (760) 942-1300

Charthouse

2588 S. Coast Hwy 101, Cardiff, CA 92024 (760) 436-4044

West Steak Seafood and Spirits

4980 Avenida Encinas, Carlsbad, CA 92011 (760) 930-9100

Italian

Fresco

264 Carlsbad Village Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92008 (760) 720-3737

Fresco

3263 Camino De Los Coches, Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 479-1525

Giovanni's Italian

764 S. Coast Hwy, Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 943-8620

Il Fornaio

1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA (858) 755-8876

Jay's Gourmet

218 N. El Camino, Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 634-5297

Leucadia Pizza

315 S. Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 942-2222

Pino's

967 S. Coast Hwy, Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 632-1901

Pizza Factory

1910 Shadow Ridge Dr., Vista, CA (760) 598-9821

Vigilucci's

3878 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad, CA 92008 (760) 434-2580

When in Rome

1108 S. Coast Hwy, Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 944-1771

Mexican

Acapulco

1020 San Marcos Blvd, San Marcos, CA 92078 (760) 471-2150

Albertos Mexican Food

1920 Oceanside Blvd, CA  (760) 439-9556

Albertos Mexican Food

13095 Poway Rd., Poway, CA (858) 486-1766

Alejandro's Mexican Food

2952 Harding, Carlsbad, CA 92008 (760) 434-3908

Charo Chicken

7680 El Camino Real, Carlsbad, CA 92009 (760) 479-0444

Chipotle

2611 Vista Way Oceanside, CA (760) 721-6904

El Pollo Loco

7120 Avenida Encinas, Carlsbad, CA 92011 (760) 431-0770

El Torito

1068 North El Camino Real, Encinitas, CA 92024 (760) 479-0003

El Torito

2693 Vista Way, Oceanside, CA (760) 439-5407

El Torito

16375 Bernardo Center Drive, Rancho Bernardo, CA (858) 485-1905

En Fuego Cantina

1342 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA (858) 792-6551

Epazotes

1555 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA (858) 259-9966

Fidel's

3003 Carlsbad Blvd., Carlsbad, CA 92008 (760) 729-0903

La Especial Norte

664 N. Coast Hwy, Encinitas, CA, 92024 (760) 942-1040

La Playa Cantina

1020 West San Marcos Blvd, San Marcos, CA 92078 (760) 744-7550

Las Olas

2939 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad, CA 92008 (760) 434-5850

Rubio's

5620 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, CA, 92008 (760) 804-9404