WDSD FEATURED STORIES

EAT, DRINK, TRAVEL & SAVE

Michael Stebner and Nathan Coulon Team to Open True Food Kitchen at Fashion Valley

Best-Selling Author Dr. Andrew Weil and Fox Restaurants Concepts Bring Healthy Restaurant Concept to the Former Site of Bing's By WDSD News Staff SAN DIEGO ...

Happy Hour Bites and Sips Abound in Coronado

A Happy Hour Tour of Coronado with Photo Gallery Photos and Story By Denise Jones | WDSD Reporter CORONADO - Every evening, when I descend the gently curving Coronado B...

Four San Diego Restaurants Make the National Top 100 Brunch List

94th Aero Squadron, Brockton Villa, R Gang Eatery and Humphreys Make the List By WDSD News Staff San Francisco -- Just in time for Mother's Day, OpenTab...

Donvan's Steak House: At Times Only the Best Will Do

When It Comes to Steak, Donovan's Sizzles By Ian Pike | WDSD Reporter SAN DIEGO - Sometimes you just get lucky. I recently had the good fortune to be invited to Donova...

Pranzo at Vivace: An Italian Tradition Brought to Life

By Julia Weiler, WDSD Reporter Carlsbad – Pranzo is the Italian term for lunch, which Italian culture deems the most meaningful meal of the day. Before the haste of modern...

Salt Air and Gourmet Fare at The Barefoot Bar and Grill

Sipping in Sandals at the Water's Edge By Julia Weiler – WDSD Reporter San Diego - There's nothing like salt air, sunshine and sailing to whet an appetite, and after a...

Delicious Gluten-Free At 2Good2B Café and Bakery

Julia Weiler | WDSD Reporter James Gambrill | WDSD Photographer Encinitas – Not everyone needs to eat gluten-free fare, but for those who suffer from Celiac di...

My Favorite Happy Hours | Pacific Beach & Mission Beach

By Henry Lewis | WDSD Happy Hour Columnist When I'm not cooking at home or covering an eatery or event for WDSD, I usually head out only for happy hours or daily specials....

Urban Eats: Big City Fare, Small Town Prices

Chef Chris Sayer Opens a Winner in Hillcrest Story and Photos By Denise E. Jones, WDSD Reporter SAN DIEGO – Literally within hours of opening a small eatery called T...

Carnitas' Snack Shack: A Small Place With Giant Flavors

By David Nelson, WDSD Executive Editor North Park – At lunch the other day, Sara Stroud noted that Carnitas, the pet pig she owns jointly with husband Hanis Cavin, was "ho...

Michael Stebner and Nathan Coulon Team to Open True Food Kitchen at Fashion Valley
Monday, 14 May 2012 13:41
Happy Hour Bites and Sips Abound in Coronado
Monday, 14 May 2012 06:53
Four San Diego Restaurants Make the National Top 100 Brunch List
Monday, 07 May 2012 09:02
Donvan's Steak House: At Times Only the Best Will Do
Friday, 04 May 2012 10:25
Pranzo at Vivace: An Italian Tradition Brought to Life
Friday, 04 May 2012 07:29
Salt Air and Gourmet Fare at The Barefoot Bar and Grill
Monday, 30 April 2012 05:50
Delicious Gluten-Free At 2Good2B Café and Bakery
Thursday, 26 April 2012 06:37
My Favorite Happy Hours | Pacific Beach & Mission Beach
Saturday, 21 April 2012 05:44
Urban Eats: Big City Fare, Small Town Prices
Thursday, 12 April 2012 09:53
Carnitas' Snack Shack: A Small Place With Giant Flavors
Wednesday, 04 April 2012 14:25

WDSD'S BUZZ SAN DIEGO

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Restaurant Mecca, Del Mar Highlands Lands Another One: Bazaar Del Mundo Restaurant Group

Diane Powers' Announces an Addition to Her Family of Mexican Restaurants By WDSD News Staff SAN DIEGO – Del Mar Highlands Town Center has proven to be an amazing attraction to some of our towns most active restaurant movers and shakers. In 2009...

Ron James

From Burlap to Bali Hai: Ben Lieberman New Executive Chef

By WDSD News Staff Former Chef at Oceanaire, Burlap & Searsucker Takes the Helm at San Diego Icon, Introduces New Summer Menus SAN DIEGO – The San Diego chef's merry-go-round continues. Ben Lieberman, previously chef de cuisine at San Diego hot spot...

Ron James

Seau's restaurant shuts down

By Lori Weisberg | UTSanDiego A little less than two months shy of its 16th anniversary, Seau's the Restaurant in Mission Valley shut down Wednesday, announced trustees for Junior Seau's estate The longtime sports bar and restaurant where fans often went hoping...

Ron James

I Love Poke Festival to Auction Off Judge's Seat for Charity

Hawaiian themed foodie festival offers winning bidder coveted spot among impressive lineup of judges WDSD News Staff San Diego, CA (May 15, 2012) – For the first time in the event's three-year history, the I Love Poke Festival, taking place May 30...

Ron James

Sake Flights Now Taking Off at Gaijin

WDSD News Staff The internationally-inspired downtown hotspot Gaijin Noodle + Sake House in the Gaslamp has recently launched a "Sake Flights" menu, perfect for both new and experienced sake lovers. Gaijin's new sake flights menu offers a sampling of any three of...

Ron James

Do You Want to go to Hell with Gordon Ramsay?

Casting call for "Hell's Kitchen" taking place in LA. WDSD News Staff FOX's hit unscripted series "HELL'S KITCHEN" is back again as Chef Gordon Ramsay looks for the Best of the Best to work beside him in the hottest kitchen on Earth!...

Ron James

FEATURED EVENTS

Third Annual I Love Poke Festival Announced For May 30th

in Events

WDSD News Staff Food Festival Celebrating Hawaiian Culture and Cuisine Returns to San Diego's Bali Hai Restaurant The I Love Poke Festival returns to San Diego's Bali Hai Resort on May 30, 2012 from 6 to 9 p.m. This third annual foodie fest and competition celebrates Hawaiian culture…

Malarkey's Burlap and Searsucker Commemorates Beastie Boy May 16

in Events

By WDSD News Staff San Diego -- On May 16th, Brian Malarkey's Burlap and Snake Oil Cocktail Co. are hosting a commemorative dinner to celebrate the life of Adam Yauch, AKA MCA of the Beastie Boys with a portion of the proceeds will go to cancer research. Chef Anthony…

Please Keep it Secret! Le Dîner is Coming to San Diego

in Events

By Ron James | WDSD Columnist Imagine that you and 4,000 of your closest foodie friends decided throw an elegant dress-up dinner party at a landmark San Diego location. And all of your friends would bring their own tables, chairs, table cloths, and utensils along with their favorite dishes,…

Thornton Unveils Champagne Jazz with an Energized Mindi Abair

in Events

By Frank Mangio | WDSD Reporter If I likened the kickoff Mindi Abair Concert at the beautiful outdoor Thornton Winery in Temecula to wine, my quote would be: "I came expecting Merlot and got Zinfandel!" Mindi, ever seductive charmer with her cooing smooth jazz and tenor sax notes, this…

3rd Annual San Diego Oysterfest Returns to Marina Embarcadero North on Saturday, June 16th, 2012

in Events

WDSD News Staff | SDO Productions with Pacific Beach Shore Club, Pacific Beach Fish Shop, and 91X announce the 3rd Annual San Diego OysterFest coming up on Saturday, June 16, 2012, in San Diego's Embarcadero Marina Park North. The Festival features a day of superb oysters, local beer, and a killer…

May 25 Le Dîner à San Diego Partners with Campine, Snake Oil and Slow Food

in Events

Le Dîner à San Diego Announces Exclusive Partnerships with San Diego's, Campine and Snake Oil Cocktail Co., and Non-Profit Slow Food Urban San Diego By WDSD News Staff San Diego -- Le Dîner à San Diego, Southern California's inaugural spontaneous flash "pop-up picnic" dinner feast to occur on…

WDSD REPORTER TESTED RESTAURANTS

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Jimmy's Almost Famous

By David Nelson | WDSD Restaurant Reporter If a T-shirt, colorful shorts and flip-flops signal San Diego like a banner,... Read more

Blue Boheme: Ken's Back!

By David Nelson According to seasoned restaurateurs, every restaurant always is for sale. This maxim may be particula... Read more

Happy Hour Happiness Found at Whisknladle

Phoenix Coverley/ WDSD Restaurant Reporter With a delightfully buzzing atmosphere, willing waiters and Chef Ry... Read more

Johnny V’s Friday Night Special – Free Appetizers!

Johnny V is a restaurant/bar/nightclub that brings class and sophistication to Pacific Beach without the hefty price t... Read more

Saska's $10 IN and OUT Deal (including tax and tip)

By Henry Lewis | WDSD Beach Area Reporter ... Read more

Kafé Yen – Thai-Centric Asian Fusion in Pacific Beach

By Henry Lewis | WDSD Reporter A stone’s throw from Crystal Pier, Kafé Yen is a cozy Asian retreat that offers colorful c... Read more

Bellefleur Brunch | Save Room for Dessert

By Julia Weiler | WDSD North County Coastal Restaurant Reporter ... Read more

30th on 30th

By Ian Pike | WDD North Park/South Park Restaurant Reviewer On the thirtieth day of each month, restaurants and nightclubs... Read more

Bird Rock’s Station Sushi |True Value Packed with Fresh Flavor

By Phoenix Coverley | WDSD La Jolla Restaurant Reporter ... Read more

Editor’s Pick: Baja Brother’s Grill | The Amazing Baja Meal Deal

i Editor’s Pick! Some deals just seem to good to be true, but this is not one of them — this is an amazing deal, eve... Read more

Getting the Urge for Burgers & Brew

By J.R. Johnson | WDSD North county Restaurant Reporter ... Read more

Temecula's Lazy Dog Café Tames a Growling Stomach

By Tommy Parker Jr. | WDSD North County Reporter What’s so bad about being a lazy dog, anyway? At The Promenade in Temecu... Read more

Origano: Hillcrest Hip

By David Nelson | WDSD Restaurant Reporter ... Read more

Alchemy: There's magic going on in South Park

By Ian Pike | WDSD San Diego Metro Reporter ... Read more

Costa Brava: A Very Happy Hour

By Henry Lewis | WDSD Restaurant ReporterSeven Days a Week From 4-6pm, Enjoy Discounted Pitchers of Sangria and Tapas at... Read more

Enoteca Adriano: Free Corkage Three Nights!

By Henry Lewis | WDSD Reporter Free Corkage Monday through Wednesday at Enoteca Adriano An Italian wine bar that offers f... Read more

Tabule Restaurant: Around the world dining in the Gaslamp

By Daniela Esteves | WDSD Metro Restaurant Reporter In the heart of downtown’s bustling Gaslamp Quarter, Tabule is name... Read more

Ape Hanger Grill: Scent by Heaven

By Sheila Varga | WDSD North County Restaurant Reporter Ape Hangers Grill Turns Heads in Oceanside As you... Read more

Garden of Eatin’ at Bistro West

By Julia Weiler | WDSD North County Coastal Restaurant Reporter ... Read more

Terra: From Farm to Table

Exquisite Dishes Made With San Diego’s Best Ingredients at Terra ... Read more

Cardiff Seaside Market: Picnic California Style

Put On the Perfect Picnic with Cardiff Seaside Market By Julie Weiler | WDSD Restaurant Reporter There’s nothing more... Read more

Quality Social: Much more than an "Upscale Dive Bar"

By Ian Pike | WDSD Restaurant Reporter ... Read more

Fresco Wine Bar And Grill Serves 'Amore' With Good Food

By Sheila Varga Szabo | WDSD Restaurant Reporter ... Read more

Savory Sunsets at The Beach House-

By Julia Weiler | WDSD Restaurant Reporter There is something truly splendid about ocean front dining, and The Beach... Read more

A Comfort Foodie Brunch at Jimmy’s Famous

By Henry Lewis | WDSD Reporter Along the boat-filled waters of Point Loma harbor, a relative newcomer to San Diego’s ... Read more

The Fusion Art of Dell'z California Grill

By Sheila Varga Szabo | WDSD Restaurant Reporter ... Read more

Party Time in North Park

$6 buck cocktails Monday through Thursday. ... Read more

BO-BEAU KITCHEN + BAR: A San Diego Gem

By Margi Blash | WDSD Restaurant Reporter ... Read more

Nine Buck Banquet at Chedi Thai Bistro

THE NINE BUCK BANQUET AT CHEDI THAI BISTRO By David Nelson | WDSD Restaurant Reporter Varying numbers of stars announce ... Read more

The Thrill of Phil's Grill Now in North County

By Sheila Varga Szabo | WDSD Restaurant Reporter ... Read more

An Amtrak & Avis Wine Country Weekend

by Sally Hixson | WDSD Contributing Reporter ... Read more

Brunch at Mission Hill's Red Door

By Ian Pike | WDSD Restaurant Reporter ... Read more

Tacos de Borrego in Chula Vista

By Deborah Schneider | WDSD Restaurant Reporter ... Read more

Living on Baja Time | Romesco Baja Med Bistro

Three excellent restaurants in Bonita and Tijuanaby David Nelson | WDSD Restaurant Reporter ... Read more

No Dogs With These Suds

By David Nelson | WDSD Restaurant Reporter ... Read more

Bacon Lollipops Star in OB's Sessions

By J.R. Johnson | WDSD Restaurant Reporter Sessions Public Tempts with Gastropub Fare in a Friendly Setting Session... Read more

Cooking at Cups!

By Phoenix Coverley | WDSD Restaurant Reporter ... Read more

We Olive opens in La Jolla

By Michelle Poveda | WDSD Restaurant Reporter ... Read more

Bonsall's Top Wok

By Shiela Varga Szabo | WDSD Restaurant Reporter ... Read more

Fishing Expedition | Los Cabos Bar & Grill

By Deborah Schneider | WDSD Restaurant Reporter ... Read more

Dog Friendly Dining at OB's Shades

By Jennifer Cunningham | WDSD Restaurant Reporter ... Read more

Coronado Firehouse Cooks

By Jennifer Cunningham | WDSD Restaurant Reporter FIRING UP THE FLAMES IN CORONADO At the end of Orange Avenue near San D... Read more

Daddy-O's Point Loma | It's Cool Man

More Than Just Burgers and Rock 'N Roll at Daddy-O's in Point Loma By Vanessa McGill | WDSD Restaurant Reporter Daddy... Read more

Simply Grand | Addison at Grand Del Mar

By Ron James | WDSD Restaurant Reporter The Addison experience begins when you turn off a nondescript suburban boulevard i... Read more

333 Pacific | Quintessentially Californian

By Julia Weiler | WDSD Restaurant Reporter ... Read more

Ritual Tavern | Rustic, Convivial & Hip

A RAVISHING RITUAL IN NORTH PARK By Ian Pike | WDSD Restaurant Reporter In order for a restaurant to succeed in North Park,... Read more

Mozy Café | A Bit of the Caribbean in Leucadia

By Tamar Wittenberg | WDSD Restaurant Reporter ... Read more

Stone Flats | Doing It Your Way

By J.R. Johnson | WDSD Restaurant Reporter ... Read more

Himalaya Cuisine | An Exotic Gem in La Mesa

By Ron James | WDSD Restaurant Reporter ... Read more

The Wine Pub in Point Loma - Where Everybody Knows Your Name

By Henry Lewis | WDSD Reporter Frequently referred to as the "Cheers of Point Loma," The Wine Pub combines the elegance... Read more

LATEST WDSD FOOD & RESTAURANT REVIEWS

Red Light District | Gaslamp Heads Uptown With Sophisticated New Rendezvous

By David Nelson, WDSD Executive Editor Red Light District, a Dining Room & Social House If your ship truly has come in – or if, lucky you, grandpa left you a whole fleet – then make Chef Jason Maitland's brilliant menu your own by piling a "Down and Dirty" ($20) garnish of shaved black truffles atop the 14-ounce Imperial Wagyu New York Strip Strip Loin. Even without the truffles, this is a regal… READ MORE

Puesto Mexican Street Food | La Jolla's Classy Taqueria

By Henry Lewis | WDSD Reporter Tacquerias are everywhere in San Diego -- so if you're going to open a successful taco shop here, it would be wise to stand out from the crowd. Puesto Mexican Street Food in downtown La Jolla does just that by offering upscale casual-fare with a twist. Native La Jollan brothers Eric and Alan Adler opened Puesto in February, and judging from the crowd, they're fitting right in at… READ MORE

PrepKitchen | Fresh & Flavorful in Little Italy

New PrepKitchen Branch Opens on India Street By Vanessa McGill | Photos by Kiera McGill SAN DIEGO -- At the new PrepKitchen in Little Italy, a branch of the popular and innovative La Jolla eatery, the menu quotes Julia Child saying, "You don't have to cook complicated or fancy masterpieces, just good food from fresh ingredients." While I might argue that the "London's Burning" cocktail and the puttanesca sauce are in fact masterpieces,… READ MORE

Saltbox Shakes Up Highly Seasoned Cuisine Downtown

By David Nelson | WDSD Reporter In the 1970s, white wine pretty well pushed cocktails aside in the role of pre-dinner aperitif. Booze took a while to battle back but triumphs mightily today, especially in the shakers of artisan bartenders who concoct cocktails worthy of the best menus in town. At the new Saltbox in Hotel Palomar (the tower next door to the House of Blues, just a bit north of Broadway and not… READ MORE

Toast Enoteca Pours a Second Helping of "Vinitaly"

By Phoenix Coverley, WDSD Reporter SAN DIEGO – On April 18, Toast Enoteca reprised last year's popular "Vinitaly" wine tasting event. A host of wine representatives were on hand to extoll the virtues of top-notch Italian wines and offer a sampling of some of the highly rated vintages featured at the annual wine festival in Verona, one of the prime centers of Italy's wine industry. READ MORE

WDSD FEATURED STORIES

Restaurant Mecca, Del Mar Highlands Lands Another One: Bazaar Del Mundo Restaurant Group

Friday, 18 May 2012 15:30 | | Print | | E-mail

Diane Powers' Announces an Addition to Her Family of Mexican Restaurants

By WDSD News Staff

SAN DIEGO – Del Mar Highlands Town Center has proven to be an amazing attraction to some of our towns most active restaurant movers and shakers. In 2009 the 20 year-old center was remodeled and re-envisioned to attracted seven high-profile restaurants and San Diego's first luxury boutique movie theater. And now with the lease is signed Diane Powers' Bazaar del Mundo Restaurant Group joins Brian Malarkey's Burlap, "Restaurateur of the Year" Scott Harris' Mia Francesca Del Mar and Davanti Enoteca, Rimel's Rotisserie, Taverna Blue, The Counter and Urban Plates.

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Category: restaurant news

Ron & Mary's Amsterdam & Celebrity Baltic Cruise Adventure Part 1

Friday, 18 May 2012 14:46 | | Print | | E-mail

SAN DIEGO -- In a few hours Mary and I will be boarding a British Airway's 777 Dreamliner destined for London and then to Amsterdam. From Amsterdam we will board the Celebrity Constellation for an amazing cruise through the Baltic, highlighted by a two day stop at Saint Petersberg. We will document our trip on WDSD and post photos and audio interviews for WDSD Radio right here in the Travel Section of WDSD. We welcome comments and questions as we eat and drink through our trip. - R

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Category: Travel

Michael Stebner and Nathan Coulon Team to Open True Food Kitchen at Fashion Valley

Monday, 14 May 2012 13:41 | | Print | | E-mail

Best-Selling Author Dr. Andrew Weil and Fox Restaurants Concepts Bring Healthy Restaurant Concept to the Former Site of Bing's

By WDSD News Staff

SAN DIEGO – Former San Diego favorite chef, Michael Stebner (Nine-Ten and Region) is coming home in a sense -- teaming with another local favorite Nathan Coulon who will take on the Executive Chef responsibilities at the San Diego version of True Food Kitchen in Fashion Valley. This June, True Food Kitchen will open at San Diego's premiere outdoor shopping center, Fashion Valley. True Food Kitchen was developed in partnership with boutique restaurant group Fox Restaurant Concepts and best-selling author Dr. Andrew Weil. The San Diego True Food Kitchen will be the fifth location in the United States, with other successful outposts in Arizona and California.

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Happy Hour Bites and Sips Abound in Coronado

Monday, 14 May 2012 06:53 | | Print | | E-mail

A Happy Hour Tour of Coronado with Photo Gallery

Photos and Story By Denise Jones | WDSD Reporter

CORONADO - Every evening, when I descend the gently curving Coronado Bay Bridge I take in the incredible beauty of the resort town I call home. Everything about it is perfect: the glorious Hotel Del Coronado, pristine beaches, gourmet picnics at summer concerts in the park and early morning walks with our two Newfoundland dogs. These are just a handful of the reasons why John and I savor life in Coronado. When we decide to dine casually, we rarely venture back over the bridge. At least one night during the week, you'll find us wedged in at the Brigantine bar with classic fish tacos and shakers of Margaritas. On another evening, we're bound to be chatting with Johnny at Il Fornaio's bar, sharing a plate of penne alla vodka and sipping Sangiovese.

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Category: Homepage rotator

Vintana, Located in Escondido Lexus Dealership Complex to Open Soon

Friday, 11 May 2012 15:15 | | Print | | E-mail

COHN RESTAURANT GROUP OPENS DOORS TO VINTANA

SAN DIEGO | ESCONDIDO — After nine months of construction, the Cohn Restaurant Group is about to unveil their most anticipated and perhaps their most ambitious dining concept to date—Vintana. The massive new $2.5 million joint venture from the Cohn Restaurant Group and Judy Jones-Cone, owner of The Centre at Lexus Escondido, opens doors in the latter part of May 2012 and is on track to break the mold of "traditional dining" as the first restaurant and luxury entertainment destination of its kind in the region.

Located in the new 300,000 square foot Lexus dealership, Vintana boasts 10,000 square feet of indoor restaurant space and 8,500 square feet of contemporary meeting and banquet space. The venue's picturesque 20,000 square foot exterior terrace with fire pits boast 360-degree views of the rolling California hills and Urban Escondido, is available for private and special events in addition to a regular open-air concert series.

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Category: restaurant news

Good News for Craft Beer Distilled from Brewers' Conference

Wednesday, 09 May 2012 06:38 | | Print | | E-mail

Superior Suds Expected to Foam Their Way Into More Americans' Affections

By Ian Pike | WDSD Reporter

SAN DIEGO – After attending the Craft Brewers Conference at Mission Valley's Town and Country Hotel, I am pleased to report that craft brewing is alive and thriving, and only likely to grow in the coming years.

The event oscillates between East and West coasts to accommodate guests and vendors from across the country and is the primary trade show for the craft brewing industry. Exhibitors represent all aspects of the supply chain, from cleaning supplies to the finest hops and yeast. The conference has a reputation as offering a great time to attendees, not least because free beer flows at stations around the exhibit hall. Brewers and beer industry types tend to be a pretty jovial crowd.

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Category: restaurant news

James Beard Awards Announced: Matt Molina, Osteria Mozza, Los Angeles Best Chef Pacific

Tuesday, 08 May 2012 06:28 | | Print | | E-mail

Mozza Chef Matt Molina By WDSD News Staff

New York -- Winners were announced this evening at the annual 2012 James Beard Foundation Awards, the nation's most prestigious recognition program honoring professionals in the food and beverage industries. San Diego again was left out of the dance with Matt Molina, Osteria Mozza, Los Angeles getting the nod for Best Chef of the Pacifice -- a category that had included William Bradley of Addison at The Grand del Mar.

San Diego's hopes were dashed last year when nominee Carl Schroeder of Market failed to get the top spot in the category. WDSD contacted staff at the Osteria Mozza restaurant in Newport Beach who indicated that a Osteria Mozza which is co-owned by Nancy Silverton, Joe Bastianich and Mario Batali would be opening in San Diego in the old Police headquarters next to Seaport Village.

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Category: restaurant news

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FOOD & DRINK NEWS & VIEWS

May 18, 2012

Restaurant Mecca, Del Mar Highlands Lands Another One: Bazaar Del Mundo Restaurant Group

Diane Powers' Announces an Addition to Her Family of Mexican Restaurants By WDSD News Staff SAN DIEGO – Del Mar Highlands Town Center has proven to be an amazing attraction to some of…

May 17, 2012

From Burlap to Bali Hai: Ben Lieberman New Executive Chef

May 17, 2012

Seau's restaurant shuts down

May 17, 2012

I Love Poke Festival to Auction Off Judge's Seat for Charity

May 17, 2012

Sake Flights Now Taking Off at Gaijin

May 15, 2012

Do You Want to go to Hell with Gordon Ramsay?

Casting call for "Hell's Kitchen" taking place in LA. WDSD News Staff FOX's hit unscripted series "HELL'S KITCHEN" is back again as Chef Gordon Ramsay looks for the Best of the Best to…

HOT NEW RESTAURANTS

April 14, 2012

Donovan's Prime Seafood

By David Nelson | WDSD Executive Editor SAN DIEGO - What makes it instantly obvious that Kemar Durfield, chef and general manager of Gaslamp's deluxe Donovan's Prime Seafood, is a graduate of the kitchen…

April 30, 2012

Sabuku Sushi: a Finer Grade of Fish

IN THE SWIM OF THINGS IN NORTH PARK By Ian Pike | WDSD Reporter SAN DIEGO - Sushi restaurants often cater to a very casual market , and despite the ostensibly exotic touches…

April 03, 2012

Wang's North Park: Chinese Food, Great Drinks, Cool Vibe

By Ian Pike, WDSD Reporter SAN DIEGO - Wang's North Park is neither a shrine to kitsch nor a gaudy palace. While the decor hints casually at the Imperial and a discrete Buddha keeps…

April 12, 2012

Urban Eats: Big City Fare, Small Town Prices

Chef Chris Sayer Opens a Winner in Hillcrest Story and Photos By Denise E. Jones, WDSD Reporter SAN DIEGO – Literally within hours of opening a small eatery called Taco Bahn, which he…

May 14, 2012

Red Light District | Gaslamp Heads Uptown With Sophisticated New Rendezvous

By David Nelson, WDSD Executive Editor Red Light District, a Dining Room & Social House If your ship truly has come in – or if, lucky you, grandpa left you a whole fleet…

February 18, 2011

BO-BEAU KITCHEN + BAR: A San Diego Gem

By Margi Blash | WDSD Restaurant Reporter BO-beau kitchen + bar, located in Ocean Beach, is the newest culinary creation from the Cohn Restaurant Group. After a major renovation of the former Thee Bungalow, Bo-beau…

May 05, 2012

Saltbox Shakes Up Highly Seasoned Cuisine Downtown

April 04, 2012

Carnitas' Snack Shack: A Small Place With Giant Flavors

By David Nelson, WDSD Executive Editor North Park – At lunch the other day, Sara Stroud noted that Carnitas, the pet pig she owns jointly with husband Hanis Cavin, was "home, in bed and…

TRAVEL

Ron & Mary's Amsterdam & Celebrity Baltic Cruise Adventure Part 1

Patton museum holds high ground in desert

By Carl Larsen | WDSD Travel Writer CHIRACO SUMMIT — The heat of battle was tested here in California's Mojave Desert, and now the sands of time have erased most traces of what was…

Pebble Beach Food & Wine: A Tasteful Extravaganza

Pebble Beach Food & Wine – The Ultimate Weekend Event! By Vanessa McGill | WDSD Reporter On a recent weekend we embarked on a trip up the indescribably picturesque California coast from San…

A Paradise Found in our Own Backyard

A Relaxing "Staycation" at Paradise Point Resort and Spa By Julia Weiler - WDSD Reporter & Travel Writer San Diego - My husband and I love mini getaways, and as residents of San…

COLUMNISTS

Judging the First-Ever San Diego Wine Competition

in Frank Mangio's Taste of Wine

By Frank Mangio | WDSD Wine Columnist When I got the call to be a judge for the first-ever commercial wine competition at the San Diego County Fair, it made me stop and think about just how far the quality of San Diego wines had come…

Brooklyn Girl Eatery Now Open

in Ron James | Wine and Food Guy

By Ron James | WDSD Reporter Veteran restaurantuers Michael and Victoria McGeath's newest effort, Brooklyn Girl Eatery is now open for business. The McGeaths, previously owned Trattoria Acqua in La Jolla, and the pioneering Gaslamp restaurant Fio's. The Goldfinch Avenue restaurant's culinary efforts will…

A Fortress for Pinot Noir

in Frank Mangio's Taste of Wine

By Frank Mangio | WDSD Wine Columnist Along the Sonoma Coast, high on a ridge overlooking the Pacific Ocean and barely accessible, sits Fort Ross Vineyards and Winery, home of the finest Pinot Noirs in California. It meets all the demands of this "queen" of the…

Wine & Food Guy | Confessions of a Grill Master

in Ron James | Wine and Food Guy

Spring is here, and that means that the season for serious grilling is upon us. By Ron James | WDSD Columnist I'm not sure when and why I started grilling many years ago. I suppose it was a dad thing — he did it and…

WINE AND FOOD NEWS

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WDSD BROADCAST RADIO

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO TODAY'S SHOW

THIS WEEK'S RADIO SHOW

MAY 19 WDSD RADIO SHOW

Featuring Guests Poke Festival Founders Nino Camilo & Partner Sumo, Harney Sushi owner Dustin Sommerville and his executive chef Robert Ruiz and SOL Market owner Vince Brown and Chef Brandon Brooks.

Nino Camilo & Poke Festival Partner Sumo: Founders of the I Love Poke Festival returns to San Diego’s Bali Hai Resort on May 30. This third annual foodie fest and competition celebrates Hawaiian culture and lifestyle, and pits fifteen of San Diego’s top chefs against one another in a competition to discover who can create the best poke in the city.

Harney Sushi owner Dustin Sommerville and Executive Chef Robert Ruiz: Discuss the Road to Sustainability and the motivation for turning Harney Sushi into a sustainable restaurant and about the challenges and rewards of taking such a journey.

SOL Market owner Vince Brown and Chef Brandon Brooks: They discuss their new SOL Market at Liberty Station, very old concept of having local produce at a local market, but with a new twist: cooking the produce in a fun bistro and offering local wines and beers to the patrons.

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THIS SHOW

MAY 12 WDSD RADIO SHOW Featuring Guests Amanda Baumgarten, Cameron Woods, Scott Steenrod & Garrett Sathre

We talk with San Diego's newest star chef, former Top Chef contestant and funny girl Amanda Baumgarten, and Amaya Executive Chef who talks about the important upcoming EAT DRINK READ charity event.

Ron James talks about his upcoming gourmet cruise to St Petersburg and Celebrity Cruises' Scott Steenrod assures him that there will be enough food. And San Francisco chef Garrett Sathre chats about his amazing Le Dîner à San Diego event.

Amanda Baumgarten: Top Chef contestant and former Executive Chef at the Water Grill in LA. Now the top chef at Brian Marlarkey's latest dining spot Herringbone in La Jolla. She's really a funny too.
Cameron Woods: Executive chef at Amaya at the Grand Del Mar, one of San Diego's finest chefs and really nice guy.

Garrett Saathre: San Francisco owner/chef of two restaurants and founder of the incredible Le Dîner à San Diego where thousands of strangers all dress in white and pig out on really good food at an undisclosed location.
Scott Steenrod: Vice President of Food and Beverage Operations for Celebrity Cruises, the award-winning cruise line famous for their gourmet offerings and service.

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MAY 5 WDSD RADIO SHOW Featuring Guests Isabel Cruz, Martin San Roman, Cesar Gonzalez & Natalie Fisk

Cinco de Mayo celebration Live at Fixtures Living San Diego, WDSD Radio interviews three noted San Diego chefs who create three different styles of Mexican cuisine. and a talented Mixologist who makes a great namesake margarita.

Isabel Cruz, cookbook author and celebrity owner/chef of Isabel’s Cantina and several other restaurants here and in Portland.

Cesar Gonzalez Gregarious owner/chef of the popular Hillcrest eatery, Mama Testa Taqueria in Hillcrest who beat Bobby Flay in a television fish taco throw down

Martin San Roman Top Celebrity Chef in Mexico and now Executive Chef and Partners in Candelas by Martin San Roman downtown.

Natalie Fisk Charming mixologist from Miquel's Cantina, East Lake, who invented the Natalita Magarita.

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APRIL 28 WDSD RADIO SHOW Featuring Guests Kari Rich, Mike Barbanti, Jesse Paul & Pierre Albaladejo

Live at Fixtures Living San Diego, WDSD Radio interviews three extraordinary chefs and an entrepreneurial baker who is making a delicious difference in the lives of the gluten intolerant.

Chef Kari Rich, Owner and Executive Chef, Food Farm Truck, talks about life in a food truck and her May stint at the St. Germain's Bistro & Cafe's Lady Chef Series.

2Good2B Bakery and Café co-owner and mastermind Mike Barbanti with WDSD reporter Julia Weiler talking about the incredible new gluten free baked products that are delicious despite the label.

Park Hyatt Aviara Resort Executive Chef Pierre Albaladejo and Vivace Chef de Cuisine Jesse Paul talks about the launch of Pranzo Sunday Lunch at Vicace.

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Host Ron James & Vicace Chef Jesse Paul making mozzarella

Kari Rich making delicious healthfood.

Maria Swanson and 2Good2B's Mike Barbanti doing a gluten-free taste-off

APRIL 21 WDSD RADIO SHOW Featuring Guests Andrew Spurgin & Tommy Gomes

Tommy Gomes & Andrew Spurgin

Our first Show at Fixtures Living we talk about seafood sustainability with two of San Diego's most dialed in guys.

Andrew Spurgin, Executive Chef/Partner at Campine, A Culinary + Cocktail Conspiracy and the co-founder of Passionfish and Cooks Confab., was just named recipient of the prestigious Dr. Roger Revelle Perpetual Award. The San Diego Oceans Foundation's (SDOF) most prestigious honor.

Tommy Gomes, Public Relations and Marketing Director at Catalina Offshore Products. A long line of San Diego Portuguese fisherman and named one of San Diego Magazine's "50 People to Watch in 2011

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WDSD VIDEO: Campine Chef Andrew Spurgin Makes a Tide Pool in a Bowl

Tommy Gomes does Bay Scallops

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APRIL 14 WDSD RADIO SHOW Featuring Guests Dana Chaldekas | Eric Lingenfelder

Dana Chaldekas from Specialty Produce will talk about San Diego's largest specialty produce company and what's new, fresh and exotic in veggie land.

Eric Lingenfelder, one of the founding partners of the Verant Group. His company now has six local restaurants/bars and is near completion of their first downtown location with the dual opening of the highly anticipated barleymash and ginger's

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APRIL 7 WDSD RADIO SHOW

Featuring Guests Paul McCabe | Robert Earl

Robert Earl, Founder and CEO of Planet Hollywood, head of Buco de peppo and Hard Rock to make "America's Finest City" the official launch place for DinnerDate™ (www.DinnerDate.com), his newest venture that pairs the business of food and dating.

Paul McCabe: Executive Chef at Delicias: Chef Paul McCabe has made his mark on the San Diego culinary scene. McCabe has enjoyed many years of success in the market, having also held executive chef positions at San Diego's Top of the Cove, Star of the Sea and Kitchen 1540.

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MARCH 31 WDSD RADIO SHOW

Café Japengo Executive Chef Jay Payne. We will be chatting with Chef Jay Payne who started down the road to culinary excellence earlier than most have even begun to think of future careers. At only fifteen years of age, Payne was taken on as an apprentice under the wing of Bernard Herloss, Executive Chef at The San Diego Yacht Club.

Doreen Black Director of Catering of The Prado/Cohn Restaurant Group talking about the Titanic Dinner at the Prado.

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May 17, 2012

Hotel La Jolla Renovation Includes Addition of Cusp Dining & Drinks

By Brandon Hernández |SD Reader Kimpton's big renovation of Hotel La Jolla is in the midst of wrapping up. When complete, the building will house a new restaurant called Cusp Dining & Drinks. The restaurant will takeover the space previously occupied by Clay's La Jolla, a spot that had good food but struggled to bring in clientele. Its replacement is reminiscent of how Saltbox supplanted the similarly challenged Suite and Tender at Hotel Palomar when Kimpton took over the downtown property last year. READ MORE

April 19, 2012

Cohn Restaurant Group's 100 Wines Opens in Hawaii

Share Euro plates with friends as you sip wines at happening new Lahaina Gateway hot spot By CARLA TRACY - Dining Editor |The Maui News The Cohn Restaurant Group, based out of San Diego, has created a winner and a half with its latest Maui venture. In fact, I can't wait to get back there again to sip a nice Italian Sangiovese and dive into perfectly ripe and room-t emperature cheeses such as Saint Andre. READ MORE

April 14, 2012

Museum Café has contemporary dishes as hip as the art

By Kelley Carlson | La Jolla Light It should come as no surprise that a restaurant at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego is so picturesque, it could be the subject of a painting. Located on the street side of the La Jolla museum — with the ocean just around the corner — the Museum Cafe's patio is charming and framed by wisteria, with vines entwining white columns. Guests sit in orange and silver chairs underneath cream-colored umbrellas and dine on fresh, seasonal California cuisine, as the breeze periodically carries the notes of chimes from a nearby church bell. READ MORE

April 09, 2012

Mario Batali On How To Make Pasta

By Food & Wine / Huffington Post "The satisfaction derived from making something so delicious out of a pile of flour and eggs is incredible, and the difference between that and store-bought 'fresh' pasta is night and day," says chef, restaurateur and TV star Mario Batali. Here, the pasta master and Italian-food expert shares tips for making the best pasta. READ MORE

FOOD & WINE EVENTS

Food & Wine Events

By Frank Mangio

Castello Banfi will be the star wine at a dinner at Vigilucci's at the Carlsbad Beach location Fri. May 18 starting at 6:30pm. A special menu will be prepared. $80. pp. Call 760-434-2580 for reservations and the menu.
A reminder, the Salute to Corporal Dominguez, the Marine triple amputee is Fri. May 25 from 6 to 9pm at Monte De Oro Winery in Temecula. It's an evening of food, wine and entertainment with a live and silent auction. $65. a ticket, $120 per couple. All proceeds to Corporal Dominguez. Get tickets at www.deportolatrail.com.
Europa Village Winery in Temecula now has free live music every Fri. 6:30 to 9:30pm and Sun. 12 Noon to 3pm. Sun. June 3, enjoy the Jazz guitar of Mathew Fagan. 951-216-3380 for details.
North County Wine Company in San Marcos presents 7 great Pizza Wines Fri. May 25 from 5 to 8pm. $10. for the tasting. Also enjoy a great pizza from the Red Oven Pizza Truck. Get the wine names at 760-744-2119 .
A Grand Tasting is being held at the Balboa Bay Club & Resort, Coast Highway Newport Beach, Sat. night, May 26 from 7 to 10:30pm. 60 wineries from around the world will be pouring paired with culinary creations from Executive Chef Josef Lageder. Cheeses and Sushi complete the food offerings. Live Music. $125. pp. Details at 888-445-7153 .
The Vista Strawberry Festival, downtown Vista is happening Sun. May 27 from 9am to 7pm. Feature attraction will be the new Strawberry Stiletto wine, handcrafted from fresh strawberries, at a Vista winery, California Fruit Wine. For more, call 760-519-4221 .
PAON Restaurant & Wine Bar in Carlsbad is pouring its Red World Tour 305: Barbera, Corvina, Nebbiolo and Sangiovese, Tues. May 29 from 6 to 8pm. From Tuscany to Piedmont, this tasting class will offer the great wines of these regions. Cost is $49. Ticket information at 858-442-2749 .

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