Hydrobrew is North County's Source for Hydroponic and Homebrewing Supplies in Oceanside

Posted by Barry Berndes

Hydrobrew is North County San Diego’s destination of choice for supplies for homebrewing and hydroponics alike. In addition to a complete line of equipment and ingredients for home production of beer, mead, or wine, they also carry indoor gardening supplies from high intensity lighting to nutrients and growing media to a variety of hydroponic irrigation systems.

Hydrobrew is a full-service retail store dedicated to making all your brewing and gardening ventures easier and more productive. The next time you find yourself in North County San Diego, visit Hydrobrew.

Cinepolis Luxury Cinemas Where You Will Experience the Movies Like Never Before

Posted by Barry Berndes

Cinepolis Movie Theaters

Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas is a completely revolutionized concept in movie theaters that will enhance customer’s movie going experience. Their goal is to pamper customers in an intimate and comfortable environment.

Buy your tickets online or visit the exclusive luxury box office/concierge area once you arrive or the self-service touchscreen to watch the trailers of the movies that they are playing if you are not sure of what you want to see and buy the ticket right there.

Relax or socialize with friends and family in the exclusive lobby, the perfect space to unwind before or after the movie. Take advantage of the comfortable seating areas and full restaurant/bar service.

Enter the theater early and enjoy at-your-seat wait service. Sit back and relax in plush leather electric reclining seats, complete with a foot rest. Their menus offer a wide variety of food and beverages to delight your senses, choose traditional movie favorites such as popcorn and soft drinks, specialty coffee drinks, milkshakes, gourmet finger foods, desserts and in their two 21+ screens enjoy the bar menu.

Finally, enjoy the show, projected with state of the art digital sound and projection equipment, including many titles offered in 3D for the whole family.

In-seat service will be offered to clients where waiters will take orders before the movie starts and during the movie with a waiting calling button in the seats.

Cinepolis’ auditoriums combine comfort and functionality. Our theaters have an average of 60 to 70 fully-reclining leather seats with ample space between rows. Each seat houses its own swivel table and waiter service button. An arm rest between every two seats lifts to create a loveseat.

Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas will be the first theater with 100% digital projection and sound. Movies will be shown in both 2D and 3D formats.

Del Mar:
12905 El Camino Real
San Diego, CA 92130
858-794-4045		 La Costa, Carlsbad
6941 El Camino Real
Carlsbad, CA 92009
760-603-8638		 Ocean Ranch, Orange County
32401 Golden Lantern
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
949-487-1900

Rubicon Deli’s Claim to Fame is Their Daily Baked Bread & Burgers & Sandwiches

Posted by Barry Berndes

Rubicon Deli Daily Baked Bread

Rubicon Deli  with 2 locations to serve you:3715 India St; 4130 La Jolla Villiage Dr. Both locations are open  10 am –7:30 p.m. ($10–$20). Credit cards: DISC, MC, VISA.

Rubicon is well-known for their loaves of bread baked fresh daily making a HUGE difference in how delicious a sandwich can really taste! The end result is their sandwiches taste better than either Subway or Jersey Mikes.

Daily baked bread makes a HUGE difference in the taste! Of course, everybody has their favorites but this reviewer liked The Stallion made with salami, ham spicy Capicola, Provolone, roasted red peppers, lettuce, tomato onion, Pepperoncini, mayo, yellow mustard, oil and vinegar, salt and pepper on a Blue Cheese Roll. With a loyal following and two locations to serve you, expect to see more locations popping up around the county, because it’s more than just a sandwich shop, it’s a place to hang out and meet and greet friends old and new.

 

 

Harney Sushi is a Cutting-Edge 3,500-sq. ft. Oceanside Ocean View Restaurant

Posted by Barry Berndes

Wow! This cutting edge sushi restaurant has received rave reviews from virtually everyone including Zagat, who proclaimed them to be one of “America’s Top Japanese Restaurants.” With its sophisticated edginess, you’ll immediately agree that this 3,500-sq. ft., 155 seat restaurant with floor to ceiling windows and an ocean view has what you are looking for. Plus, its “green” restaurant design features LED lighting, bamboo plywood and even an Ecolab dishwasher.

It also has a 600-gallon fish tank showcased behind their classy sake bar. And it features over 40 premium brands of the world’s best sake. An added touch of class is their enchanting waterfall. It’s also easy to get in tune with live DJ music Tues.-Sat. Add comfortable tables and inviting booths for a meal to remember.

A host of delicious dining selections are offered ($30–$50) including tantalizing appetizers, savory salads with an Asian flair, vegetarian delights, exotic combinations and a host of over 35 memorable sushi selections. Sushi favorites include captivating spicy salmon rolls, savory cucumber maki and spicy yellowtail rolls. Popular dishes include their Maui Waui roll which is filled with shrimp tempura and crab, topped with seared albacore, avocado, eel sauce, chili oil, ponzu, green onion and masago. Also try their Happy Hamachi, which is thinly sliced yellowtail sashimi with diced onions, jalapenos, green onion and orange ponzu.

They also have a host of vegetarian selections as well as a special late night happy hour from 10 p.m. till midnight. For dessert have The Perfect Strawberry, which is a tempura fried strawberry with cinnamon toast crunchies and vanilla or green tea ice cream, or a dark chocolate gyoza. Enhance your meal with one of their exotic martinis, sake, locally or microbrewed beers or a glass of one of their 50 award winning wines.

Beer, wine and sake. Impressive banquets, exceptional catering events, and rehearsal dinners. They also have a 40 person banquet room with a private sushi bar.

Oceanside venue is open Mon.– Thurs., 4 p.m. – 10 p.m., Fri. & Sat. 1 p.m. – 11 p.m., & Sun. 1 p.m. – 10 p.m.Happy Hour 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Old Town hours: Open daily 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. Credit cards: AE. MC, VISA.

Poway 12245 Poway Rd., Poway, Ca (858-883-4278). Open Tue. – Thurs. 4 p.m. –8;30 p.m., Fri. 11:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m., Sat. 11:30 a.m. – 9;30 p.m., Sun. 11:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Old Town 
3964 Harney St.
San Siego, CA 92110
(619-295-3272)
[map] [directions]		 Oceanside                   
301 Mission Ave.
Oceanside, CA 92054
(760-967-1820)
[map] [directions]

Aquatica SeaWorld’s Waterpark in Chula Vista is San Diego’s Popular Waterpark

Posted by Barry Berndes

Aquatica SeaWorld Waterpark in Chula Vista

Aquatica SeaWorld’s Waterpark in Chula Vista is a lushly landscaped waterpark with up-close animal experiences, high speed thrills and the amenities of a beachside resort. Among dozens of slides and rides at this whimsical, South Seas-themed waterpark is Big Surf ShoresTM.

One of the largest wave pools in Southern California, it features more than 500,000 gallons of water to take a swim in and a huge sandy beach for basking in the sun. Adventurers should check out HooRoo Run®, where they have a choice of two enclosed and two open-air slides that take them down an 80-foot descent.

Caribbean flamingos and freshwater turtles round out the Aquatica experience, as only SeaWorld® can. Admission is $38 for ages 10 and older; $31 for ages 3–9; free for children under 3. Parking is $15. Cabanas and lockers are optional and available at an additional cost.

An Aquatica 2013 Season Splash Pass may be purchased for $69 for ages 10 and older; $61 for ages 3-9 (a season pass that includes parking is $98 and $90). Season passes for both Aquatica and SeaWorld are also available.

Aquatica opens at 10 a.m. daily (closing times vary; please check website). Operating schedule for 2013 is daily through Sept. 2; weekends only Sept. 7 to Oct. 20. For more information visit AquaticaSanDiego.com or call 800-257-4268.

Save $5 off admission when you order tickets online

San Felipe Marina Resort and Spa: A Baja California Oasis

Posted by Barry Berndes

Located south of town via Avenida Camino Del Sur which turns into Carretera San Felipe-Aeropuerto at Km. 4.5 (01152-686-577-0819) or (800-291-5397) ($79-$185). This grand resort features 55 rooms that come with a kitchen and satellite TV. They offer tennis courts, swimming pools, jacuzzi, gym, sauna and spa. Also offer time share for condos and homes. Credit cards: MC, VISA.

Los Arcos Seafood Restaurant and Bar has a Superb Selection Of Mexican Coastal Seafood

Posted by Barry Berndes

This seafood restaurant is a great discovery. The tropical atmosphere is lively with people talking, laughing and rhythmic music from Mazatlán playing. As for the decor, it’s nautical. Altogether, the menu features more than 50 fresh seafood selections including traditional dishes and their very popular “Los Arcos” specialties.

Also recommended is their “Donna Reyna” style fish fillet. It’s baked with shrimp, mushrooms, celery, onions, chili, bacon and cheese. They also offer 3 cuts of steak including a steak and lobster combination. If you love seafood, this is where you should be dining.

Other locations:
Chula Vista. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 Bonita Rd.
Culiacan . . . . . . . . . . Blvd. Xicoténcatl & Lago de Cuitzeo
Guadalajara . . . . 4539 Calzada Lazaro Cardenas, Zapopan
Guadalajara . . . . . . 5050 Ave. Acueducto, Suc. Aeveducto
Juarez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2220 16 de Septiembre
Mazatlan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ave. Camarón-Sábalo
Mexicali . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 454 Calafia St.
Mexico City. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330 Torcuato Tasso, Polanco
Mexico City . . . . . . . . . . 215 San Jeronimo Ave, Pedregal
Mexico City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104 Suarsal Niza Liverpool
Monterrey . . . . . . . . 2414 Ignacio Morones, Col. Sertoma
Monterrey . . . . . . 3752 Eugenio Garzazada, Col. Country
Monterrey . . . . . . . . . . . . 550-2 Manuel L. Barragran Ave.
Naucalpan . . . . . . . . . . 2170 Blvd. Manuel Avila Camacho
Tijuana-La Mesa . . . . . . . 4200 Gustavo Diaz Ordaz Blvd.
Toluca . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Paseo Tolloacan

Jardín Galeria Floral: Where the Locals in Tijuana, Ensenada and Mexicali Go for Flowers

Posted by Barry Berndes

1302 Josefa Ortiz de Dominguez (01152-664-682-4416). Open Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.

They decorate and make flower arrangements for all types of events including baptisms, first communion, graduations, weddings, birthdays, funerals and corporate functions. They will even do your event in San Diego. Prices begin at ($25). Call in your order and they will deliver it to you. Worldwide delivery available. Credit cards: AE, VISA.

Sand Crab Tavern Features New Orleans-Style Seafood and a Authentic Decor

Posted by Barry Berndes

The Original Sand Crab Tavern (7) established in 1988, is a family-friendly, funky seafood joint with a New Orleans and nautical atmosphere. One patron described the decor “…as if the Sand Crab owners happened upon the yard sale of Jack Sparrow and Sailor Jerry – and bought everything!” Certainly the atmosphere is fun, but it’s their great seafood and terrific service that keep the locals and area visitors coming back time after time – for over 25 years.

The Sand Crab’s Seafood Combos are what put the Sand Crab Tavern on the map. A feast of assorted shellfish, including choices like fresh Maine lobster, King, Dungeness, Blue, Snow and Stone crab, along with peel & eat shrimp, Louisiana sausage, corn-on-the-cob and red potatoes, are spread out “family style” atop a sheet of white butcher paper. No utensils or plates needed, it’s just Ready, Set, EAT! All served with assorted dipping sauces and real melted butter, plus a chubby loaf of sourdough bread. The Sand Crab Seafood Combos are great fun for large groups, and perfect for couples or smaller families, too.

[iframe id=”http://www.youtube.com/embed/LgWwzmgOrR4″ align=”center”]

But that’s just the beginning. The Sand Crab has an extensive menu filled with delicious homemade soups and seafood salads. The award-winning New England clam chowder is incredible, as is their hearty seafood gumbo. The creamy Lobster Bisque with puff pastry is second to none. The crab, shrimp, or grilled salmon salads are beautifully made with locally grown produce.

Wonderful fish and seafood entrées include Alaskan halibut and chips, assorted New Orleans-style Po’ Boy sandwiches, Ketchikan Crab Cakes, and traditional Maine Lobster Rolls. Their signature Voodoo Shrimp is out of this world – jumbo peel & eat shrimp sautéed in an authentic New Orleans-style sauce, served with a toasted chunk of French bread for soaking up the sauce. Or enjoy some authentic Jambalaya, grilled wild-caught Alaskan salmon with béarnaise sauce, steamed local Carlsbad mussels or clams, bacon-wrapped jumbo scallops, and more. For the Landlubber in your group, the Black Angus burgers are “build your own” with several accompaniments to choose from. This may be a seafood restaurant, but the Sand Crab makes a wickedly good Philly cheesesteak sandwich, too. Add in some great appetizers like homemade potato chips, beer-battered onion rings, French fries, Sweet Potato fries, southern fried pickle chips, their FAMOUS hot crab dip, chicken wings, the Best calamari…and there’s something for everyone at the Sand Crab Tavern. And kids age 10 and under can choose their own meals from the Swashbuckler’s Menu.

OYSTER LOVERS UNITE!
The Original Sand Crab Tavern is home to The Black Peal Oyster Bar, where proprietor Captain Rick and his crew mates shuck the freshest Pacific northwest oysters every weekend. The Black Pearl always has three varieties of the freshest oysters from which to choose. Their rotating selection include Fanny Bay, Barron Point, Mirada, Sunset Beach, Dabob Bay, Olympia, Evening Cove, Hood Canal, South Bay, Kumamoto and others. And what goes better with oysters than an ice-cold beer or nice glass of wine? The Sand Crab has an impressive selection of beers including top notch national and regional brands like Stone IPA, Dogfish Head IPA, Ballast Point Yellow Tail, Alaskan Amber, Fat Tire, Coronado Mermaid Red and at least two dozen others. And their delicious yet reasonably-priced varietals of wine by the glass or bottle and sparkling bubbly compliment these bivalve wonders perfectly. If you love oysters – you’ll love the Black Pearl Oyster Bar.

SUNDAY BRUNCH, ANYONE? The Big Easy Sunday Brunch With LIVE Blues Music
Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, come to find out it can. The Sand Crab has their “Big Easy” Sunday Brunch with LIVE Blues music! The 3-course prix fixe menu has a New Orleans theme different from just about any other brunch in San Diego County, and all menu items are prepared fresh when you order them – this ain’t your momma’s buffet!

Start off with any one of these delicious first course options: French Creole Onion Soup, Lobster Bisque with puff pasty, New England style clam chowder, Hearty seafood gumbo, or a shrimp and crab garden salad.

Next, choose any one of the following 9 entrées: Maw Maw’s Cajun Breakfast Eggs, Eggs Baranof Benedict, French Herb Scrambled Eggs, Oysters Benedict, Crab Cake Benedict, Vanilla-Orange Pain Perdu, Traditional Eggs Benedict, Belgian Waffle, or the award-winning Ponchartrain Duck Hash with Woodland Cream Sauce. All entrées include a basket of sweet bread and fruit or breakfast potatoes.

And for dessert, how about homemade carrot or coconut cake? Or their fantastic Key Lime Pie or a French Vanilla Ice cream Sundae? For a REAL treat, the Bananas Foster is hard to beat.

Of course the Sand Crab still offers a limited seafood menu during their Sunday brunch, too, including their famous seafood boils, Alaskan halibut and chips, or Po’ Boy Sandwiches.

And let’s not forget the Live blues music featuring some of the very best blues musicians in southern
California. It’s all here at the Sand Crab Tavern, every Sunday from 11am – 2pm.

For large groups, be sure to reserve “The Captain’s Quarters Party Patio.” It’s available all year long, and can handle groups up to 50 people. Bring the whole crew for a birthday celebration, family reunion or or rehearsal dinner you’ll never forget. Just give the Sand Crab a call and they’ll be ready for you.

Part of the charm and adventure of dining at the Sand Crab Tavern is finding this little hidden gem, which has spent the past “25 years in the same, obscure location.” However you get there, make it a point to visit The Original Sand Crab Tavern. It’s not just another seafood restaurant, it’s a destination!

Go to their website at www.sandcrabtavern.com or call them at (760) 480-CRAB (2722) for directions or more information.

Ensenada’s Hotel Coral & Marina is a Premier Ensenada Resort near the Wine Country

Posted by Barry Berndes

On the Tijuana to Ensenada road just north of Ensenada at km 103 at 3421 Zona Playitas Ensenada. For reservations call direct (01152-646-175-0000) or toll-free (800-862-9020). Rate schedule for this 147-room, all-suite hotel with ocean-view balconies is ($120-$256).

Everything about this premier modern hotel resort and marina is first class. The suites are all beautifully appointed with all of the modern conviences including cable color TV, HBO, air conditioning and international telephone lines. Their spacious Antares Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. It overlooks their 353-slip marina. Other amenities include 24-hour security, ultramodern European-style spa offering massages, facials, steam sauna, and indoor and outdoor swimming pools. This resort hotel has it all!

Rosarito Beach, Mexico is where you’ll find the Las Rocas Resort & Spa for a seaside Weekend Getaway

Posted by Barry Berndes

Just six miles south of Rosarito Beach at km 38.5 on the Tijuana-Ensenada free road. For reservations or information, call toll-free (888-527-7622) or (619-234-9810). Summer rates are ($79-$389).

The best place to stay south of the border is Las Rocas Resort and Spa. This oceanfront resort offers a diversity of accommodations from standard rooms with private balconies, to a luxurious two-bedroom penthouse with a private outdoor Jacuzzi for two. Each room has a private balcony and a spectacular ocean view. One of the most unforgettable places to relax is at their holistic inspired spa. They offer an eclectic array of signature treatments to rejuvenate you. There are also two restaurants, outdoor pools and Jacuzzis, a volleyball court and a 4,000 sq. ft. special events facility. Las Rocas is not only a fantastic weekend destination, but is also a wonderful midweek getaway. Credit cards: MC, VISA.

Soriano-Marty & Associates: With Years of Real Estate Experience in Rosarito Beach

Posted by Barry Berndes

In the Oceana Plaza at 907 Blvd. Benito Juarez, Suite 28 in Rosarito Beach (01152-661-612-1723); fax (01152-661-612-1034).

Owners Juan Araiza, Jorge and Maria Soriano and Pancho P. Marty all speak English and have years of experience in assisting home buyers. They provide the best service to sellers and buyers by putting professional ethics at the front of all of your real estate transactions. They also provide a variety of other legal assistance including immigration, notary services, escrow services, property management, investments and much more.

Their U.S. mailing address is 4492 Camino De La Plaza, Box 603, San Ysidro, CA 9273.

Baron Balche: This Winery is a Hidden Treasure

Posted by Barry Berndes

“Barón Balch’é, from Highway 3 take the main road and turn right at the Health Center (IMSS Centro de Salud). It’s the next lot over from Adobe Guadalupe (01152-1-646-183-9501). Open daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. The name Barón Balch’é, which means “”ceremonial beverage”” in Spanish, is meant to honor the Mayan religion and past kingdoms. Indeed, this winery is a hidden treasure. It features a tasting room, tours and shopping. Plus, they were the first winery in the region to build an underground “”cava”” or wine cellar. Tastings are ($5) and include a special reserve, mezcla tinto and doble blanc wines. They currently produce 120,000 bottles annually of their high-quality wines. The winery is also available for weddings and other events. Reservations required. (www.baronbalche.com.)”

Bodegas de Santo Tomas: The Oldest Winery in Baja California

Posted by Barry Berndes

At 44 km. south of Ensenada proper (01152-646-617-3333).

The oldest winery in Baja California invites you to visit their original wine making installations and cellar. Daily guided tours are conducted at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. except on Sundays. This thoroughly rewarding tour is ($6) and includes tasting for six wines. Some of their well-known wines are the San Emilion, Barbera and cabernet sauvignon. Reservations required. Also visit their location in downtown Ensenada at 666 Miramar Ave.

Ecobaja Tours: Discover the Secrets of Baja California

Posted by Barry Berndes

1025 Ave. Revolucion, near Sixth and Seventh Streets (01152-664-104-7440) or toll free (888-822-9925). Email info@ecobajatours.com.

It’s time to discover Baja! Ecobaja Tours will take you by the hand to discover the secrets of this fascinating region. Their fun, informative tours include the Wine Country at Guadalupe Valley, Lobster Puerto Nuevo Style, La Bufadora & Ensenada, as well as a Historic Tour of Tijuana. Tour packages cost ($45-$75). They also offer personalized tours for groups of 20 or more.

De Hoyos y Aviles: Specialized Attorneys for All Legal Services

Posted by Barry Berndes

4558 Blvd. Agua Caliente, Suite 1804 (01152-664-686-4848). Their office is open Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-2 p.m. and 3 p.m.-6 p.m.

A top law firm in Mexico is De Hoyos y Aviles, S.C. From real estate to customs regulations, the specialized attorneys at De Hoyos y Aviles can help you with any type of legal service, even buying property in Mexico. Plus, their firm has an English-speaking staff. With over 33 years of experience, they offer the best in tradition and customer service. Other location: Francisco I. Madero 883, Mexicali (01152-686-552-5555).

Plaza Rio Tijuana: The Largest Shopping Center in Baja California

Posted by Barry Berndes

Plaza Rio Tijuana is a shopping center just across the street from the cultural center. This 792,000-sq. ft. open air mall is the fourth largest in Mexico. Plaza Rio Tijuana houses more than 100 specialty and department stores, restaurants and 2 large movie theatres, one of which is a 14-theatre multiplex.

Whether it’s travel arrangements, electronics or clothing, this center has it all. They have everything from discount stores to the upscale Dorian department store. And check out the huge Comercial Mexicana, a gigantic supermarket filled with bargains galore. You’ll find great bargains on liquor here too!

Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern is a Local Favorite at the Marina in Point Loma

Posted by Barry Berndes

Jimmy’s Famous American Restaurant, located at the promenade at 4998 North Harbor Dr., Pt Loma ( (619-226-2103). Open Mon.– Thurs. 11am -9 pm., Fri. 11am -10 pm , Sat. 10am -10 pm, Sun 10 am – 9 pm.  Frequent diners should sign up for their rewards program.

With a name like Jimmy’s Famous American Restaurant, you know its got to be good. Plus, it has a wonderful bay view of yachts moored on America’s Cup Harbor. You can either dine indoors or on a charming patio with heat lamps for after dark dining.

A host of delicious meals are offered for lunch and dinner . And on Sunday they have a very popular Sunday Brunch that often begins with “Wake me Ups” like Jimmy’s Favorite Bloody Mary or a Harbor Sunrise. Sunday Brunch favorites include eggs Benedict and scramblers like their hangover helper.

Lunch time favorites include their classic cheeseburgers made with 10 ounces of proprietary ground beef.

Hungry diners will also be pleased with their all natural 12-oz. boneless rib eye steak served with french fries and a delicious garlic herb butter.

Other recommendations are the fresh fish of the day and their southern fried chicken sandwich served on a homemade buttermilk biscuit with applewood smoked bacon, thyme gravy and tater tots.

With a romantic harbor view, this is a great place for any dining occasion including banquets.MC, VISA.

Jeremy's on the Hill is Julian's California Style Bistro with a Delicious Menu & Cordon Bleu Chef

Posted by Barry Berndes

Jeremy’s on the Hill is located in Wynola, which is just west of Julian, on Hwy 78. Romantic live piano music is performed Friday and Saturday evenings. Destined for greatness is young, talented San Francisco trained Cordon Bleu Chef Jeremy Manley.

He was raised in Julian and has been preparing food since the tender age of 10. Yet, his talent at age 23 is far beyond his years. This impressive California style bistro offers impressive local and regional wines paired with the freshest of fish and Nebraska beef from Bisher’s Quality Meats.

Memorable entrees include an amazing 8 oz. flat iron steak with Danish blue cheese, portobello mushrooms, field greens and whipped Yukon gold potatoes. Also impressive is the chicken Cordon Bleu with a savor lemon-better sauce and perfectly cooked farm fresh vegetables.

Totally impressive is the checkerboard sesame crusted Hawaiian Ahi filet. The vanilla creme brulee is also highly recommeded. This is a highly recommended place to dine in Julian.

While the house specialty is gourmet cuisine, they also serve an incredible cheese burger. They call it their gloopy bacon cheese burger. It’s made with caramelized onions, lettuce, tomato and topped with a slice of California sharp cheddar cheese. They attribute the burger’s exceptional taste to he fact that the meat comes from grass fed bison from the Star B Ranch.? Burger lovers should check this one out! All of their burgers are servd with garlic herb fries, chilled watermelon or apple cider slaw.

Every Tuesday Jeremy’s offers an all day happy hour with specials on champagne, wine, beer and gourmet soft drinks.

Join them on Saturday morning at 8am for early bird Biscuits and Gravy Special going until 9:30. Breakfast is served from 8am until noon and on Sundays as well. Champagne Brunch is on Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to noon. Enjoy a complimentary glass of champagne as well!

Bite of Boston Serves East Coast Favorites

Posted by Barry Berndes

Family-owned Bite of Boston has three San Diego-based “fast-casual” food establishments – producing a very simple and straight-forward menu of East Coast-style submarine sandwiches, Maine Lobster Rolls, North Atlantic-harvested seafood, fresh cold-cuts, and other accompanying food items to eager consumers throughout Southern California.

Bite of Boston #1 (opened in June 2009) is located in the Rancho Bernardo neighborhood of San Diego. Bite of Boston #2 (opened April 2011) is located in the University City neighborhood of San Diego.

Bite of Boston features high-quality products (seafood, deli meats, breads, soups, salads, and condiments) with an attention-to-detail process that comprises a thoroughly enjoyable East Coast-flavored (i.e. Boston, New York City, Philadelphia) seafood/submarine/sandwich experience.

The Bite of Boston offers many variations and different products versus what is traditionally offered in sandwich and seafood establishments on the West Coast. The most important products (the ones that differentiates this establishment from all other eateries in San Diego County) – is the New England-style Lobster Roll, the high-end deli meats and the submarine and sandwich rolls.

Bite of Boston is NOT a traditional dine-in/sit-down establishment – it is targeted primarily at take-out, fast-casual, on-the-go customers who can submit their food orders via four methods: walk-in; telephone; FAX; or the Bite of Boston website.

Bite of Boston focuses squarely on quality, taste and high-volume selling — versus expensive out-of-pocket prices for the consumer. All sandwiches are in the $5.75 to $8.95 range, dependent on bread size and type, cold-cut selection, and add-on items such as snacks and beverages. Only on a consumer-requested basis are typical West Coast alternatives available (i.e. bread type, sandwich wraps, health-conscious options, calorie intake, etc). More than 80-percent of Bite of Boston’s submarine and sandwiches are East Coast-style – big, bold, traditional, ethnic (Italian, semi-Kosher) and cost-efficient.

Hours of operation are 10:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. seven days per week. Bite of Boston is staffed daily by the owners, members of their family, and some salaried and hourly employees from surrounding communities.

Rancho Bernardo
15721 Bernardo Heights Pky, Ste. E
Rancho Bernardo, CA 92128
(858-451-2900)		 La Jolla/UTC
3202 Governor Dr
San Diego, CA
(858) 453-4000		 Pacific Beach
4651 Mission Boulevard
San Diego, CA 92109
(858-272-4900)

Bella Vista Winery is Temecula’s First Commercial Vineyard and Features High Quality Wines

Posted by Barry Berndes

Bella Vista Winery

Bella Vista Winery (12) at 41220 Calle Contento (951-676-5250) Through a non-descript front door, visitors entering Bella Vista Winery will find an exciting, entertaining and wholly satisfying wine-tasting experience complete with an informal and friendly tasting room. Visitors also enjoy their beautiful, well-stocked gift shop filled with one-of-a-kind gifts. But the big attraction is one of the largest and most popular tasting rooms in the valley offering visitors over twenty quality white, red, sparkling and dessert wines. In fact, this is where bus loads of wine tasting enthusiasts make it almost a pilgramige to make sure to stop here.

This hillside location off Calle Contento is the site of the first commercial vineyard planted in the Temecula area. It was here that Temecula proved to be a suitable area to grow premium vinifera grapes. And today Bella Vista is the first winery in the area to have certified organic vineyards. In addition to making the classic California Varietals, Bella Vista also produces sparkling wines, sweet Muscat offerings, a late-harvest Petite Sirah and a number of good blends.

The winery was built in 1978 and is now owned by Hungarian-born Imre Cziraki, who has owned vineyards in the area since 1982. In Hungary, he helped the family make wine when he was a young boy and brings this experience to Bella Vista.

A number of improvements have been made to the property, with more planned. The Vista Picnic Area above the winery features shady palapas, brick walkways and tables and chairs around the lake to sit and enjoy the unsurpassed panoramic views of the wine country, mountains and sunset. It’s sheer beauty makes this a perfect setting for any event be it a wedding or a big family reunion.

The winery planted the first premium wine grape vines in the region in 1968 and opened the winery in 1978. They now annually produce over 22,000 cases of both red and white award-winning wines. The winery is open for tastings 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily. Twenty-three wines are available for tasting daily; the cost is only ($10) for six tastings. Credit cards: MC, VISA.

Dave & Buster’s San Diego Restaurant & Arcade

Posted by Barry Berndes

Dave & Busters Restaurant, Bar and Arcade

Eat, drink and play at Dave & Buster’s San Diego location. Photos Courtesy of Dave & Buster’s.

Dave & Busters, 2931 Camino Del Rio North in Mission Valley (619-280-7115). [daveandbusters.com].Open Wed. & Thurs.   11 a.m.– 1 a.m., Fri. 11. a.m.–2 a.m., Sat. 10 a.m.– 1 a.m. ; Sun. 9:30 a.m. –12 a.m., Mon. & Tues. 11 a.m.  2 a.m. Happy hour Daily except Sat.. Guests must be 21+ with valid ID after 10 p.m. everyday of the week. 15% OFF Military & 1st Responders.  Half price Wed. arcade. (Food ($20 – $30).

Even though Dave & Buster’s has a winning combination and tons of happy customers, they are never satisfied. Thus, they change their menu often, and are constantly introducing new and exciting arcade games. The end result is that Dave & Buster’s is a very, very special place. Almost everyone who comes to play games also comes to dine here as well. Easy to recommend is their Fire-Grilled Atlantic Salmon and their awesome Triple Bacon Burger. Oh Gosh, you gotta have their Big Daddy four layer Chocolate Cake topped with whipped cream and a cherry! Plus, most customers are repeat customer?

During the week it’s filled with kids of all ages who come with their parents, grand parents and friends. And everyone come here to play the hundreds of mind boggling games and to eat one of their incredible meals in their big restaurant.

Plus, their raised bar scene offers loads of top flight mixed drinks be it a savory Hawaiian Mai Tai made with Myers’s Original Dark Rum. It’s hmm Good! As for the restaurant it’s always a challenge to decide what to order because every item on their colorful 8.5″ x 14″ menu looks as good as it tastes. The entree selection is a show stopper. Dave & Busters are big on setting up banquets and party venues. Full Bar. Private parking lot.

Of course, the thing that sets Dave & Buster’s apart from all other restaurants is their state-of-the-art arcade center. From hair-raising shoot-em-ups to thrilling racing games to traditional bar games like billiards, this restaurant has it all. The mere size of the 45,000 sq. ft. building housing Dave & Busters and its HUGE parking lot is a great indication of the popularity of Dave & Busters!

Credit cards: AE, DISC, MC, VISA.

Yummy Buffet: All-You-Can-Eat Asian Cuisine

Posted by Barry Berndes

All-You-Can-Eat Asian Cuisine

Satisfy your craving for freshly prepared, all-you-can-eat Asian cuisine and American cuisine when you stop by the Yummy Buffet in Point Loma. They offer a fabulous selection of international dishes served in a comfortable and convenient buffet setting.

They offer all your favorite Asian dishes, including fresh handmade spring rolls, kung pao chicken, orange chicken, sweet and sour chicken, and egg drop soup.

Yummy Buffet’s sushi is made fresh throughout the day to ensure the best possible flavor. Choose from all your favorite varieties, including Philadelphia rolls, shrimp rolls, and fish rolls.

In addition to our selection of Asian dishes, they also offer all your favorite American dishes made from fresh ingredients. Stop by today to enjoy homemade ribs, mashed potatoes, baked chicken, and a whole lot more.

Temecula’s Monte De Oro Winery is a Spectacular Day Trip Getaway to Temecula’s Wine Country

Posted by Barry Berndes

Monte de Oro Winery in Temecula

Located off Rancho California Road in the heart of Temecula’s wine valley is beautiful Monte De Oro Winery (19).

What sets Monte De Oro apart from the other wineries in the valley is their careful attention to vineyard practices, such as canopy management and controlling yields, as well as our delicate handling of the fruit and wine throughout its time in the winery.

As a result, Monte De Oro’s signature wines are elegant, balanced, well-structured and integrated, great with food or by themselves, and approachable in their youth but with the structure to improve for years to come.

Guided tours of the Monte De Oro vineyards, wine barrel basement, the racking operation and hospitality center are given daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monte De Oro’s wines are crafted in a style which showcases the true varietal character of each grape variety, balanced with the fruit-forward terroir of the Temecula Valley and subtle influences from extended barrel aging in nearly 100% French oak barrels.

Winner of “Best of the IE 2013 Awards” is the wineries MDO Wine Bar & Bistro which is open every Friday-Sunday serving delicious appetizers, salads, sandwiches and fruit and cheese platters.

This winery is superbly located on the highest hill to take advantage of its natural vantage point for showcasing the beauty of the surrounding terrain. Thus in every directions the views are nothing less than spectacular.

To the south is the Cleveland National Forest (home to the world famous Palomar Observatory) and the picturesque Santa Rosa and to the east are the San Jacinto Mountains, which are absolutely stunning when they are capped with snow. To the north is the San Bernardino National Forest and during the winter months, it is not uncommon to see snowcaps on these mountaintops as well.

From time to time live entertainment can be enjoyed. In addition they sometimes have special wine tasting events, which are featured on their calendar of events.

Duck Dive is a Surf Themed Pacific Beach Cafe & Bar

Posted by Barry Berndes

Duck Dive

Duck Dive is a surb themed Pacific Beach Cafe & Bar within a block from the Pacifc Ocean and the beach. So, quite naturally, it has become a local meetup cafe and bar.

After a day at the beach, a popular food and fun destination is The Duck Dive in Pacific Beach just north of Garnet Avenue. The offer both indoor and patio dining with an open concept that fits the life style of locals living in Pacific Beach.

The casual experience of The Duck Dive in understated with its casual beach atmosphere, delicious food and a wide assortment of drinks including a TON of micro brews. The genesis of of the Duck Dive concept derives from the owner’s passion for everything related to bars and food, and from the locals and visitors who demand more from their eating and drinking experience.

They are dedicated to serving high quality faire, the Duck Dive offers Gastropub inspired/Contemporary American Cuisine in a casual Beach lounge atmosphere.

The Duck Dive is also committed to offering an elevated drinking experience at the Beach. They also feature a rotating line–up of local and micro brewed offerings, and an extensive craft cocktail menu which pays a playful homage to the classics as well as our ongoing takes of contemporary staples.

Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Central is a Great Place to Stay For Business & Pleasure

Posted by Barry Berndes

This newly renovated hotel features a new, state-of-the-art lobby experience with contemporary modern decor, flexible spaces to work or relax, complimentary WiFi, and innovative technology with access to the latest news, weather and airport conditions via “Go Board.”

Whether traveling for business or pleasure, you will experience a refreshing stay at the San Diego Central Courtyard hotel with inspired dining and relaxing guest rooms with a warm and inviting atmosphere. Go for a swim in their large outdoor heated pool and spa, or enjoy a beverage in our tropical Courtyard with an outdoor fireplace.

This hotel in the Central San Diego area is located just minutes away from major businesses such as Northrop Grumman, Resmed, SDG&E, Cubic, Kyocera, Bridgepoint Education, Paychex and MCAS Miramar. Local attractions such as the San Diego Zoo, Sea World, Qualcomm Stadium, Petco Park, Gaslamp District and beautiful beaches are just minutes away.

Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Liberty Station is a Beautiful Hotel on the Waterfront

Posted by Barry Berndes

Located along the waterfront in the heart of Liberty Station – an urban village created from the Historic Naval Training Center – the Homewood Suites San Diego, CA hotel is ideally placed so you can experience the very best of the city. Activities are abundant near the hotel, with everything from shopping and water sports to dance and yoga classes.

Ideal for business travelers in the San Diego area with its spacious suites, fully equipped kitchens, and separate living and sleeping areas, our Homewood Suites San Diego hotel is perfect for corporate housing – or for any business travelers planning an extended stay. If you’re traveling to San Diego for business, you’ll also appreciate their San Diego, California hotel’s close proximity to various businesses and corporations

Not many San Diego hotels can match their excellence for conferences, social events, or weddings. The event space in the Roosevelt Room, can accommodate up to 100 guests.

San Diego County Fair Boasts Over 1,000,000 Visitors and Tons of Attractions for the Whole Family

Posted by Barry Berndes

 

San Diego County Fair

This year’s San Diego County Fair celebrates the legendary rough-and-tumble Wild, Wild West. as the theme for 2017! The summer of 2017 promises to be filled with fun and games galore for 24 days.

Horses are man’s best friend out here in the West, where you can learn how to saddle up, rope and ride-em’ cowboy. Try your hand at panning for gold, or set up camp out on the prairie and tell tales ’round the campfire. When you’re feelin’ parched, mosey on over to the Painted Pony Saloon and sip on a tall sarsaparilla while you try your luck at the poker table playing against the infamous scallywags and desperados of the Old West.

Explore an old stagecoach, but hide your valuables or you might get held up by scurrilous outlaws like Billy the Kid, Jesse James or Black Bart! Meet the rowdy women of the west, like Calamity Jane and “Little Sure Shot” Annie Oakley.

View the Calendar of Events here.

Gaslamp Museum at the William Heath Davis House, the Oldest House in the Gaslamp

Posted by Barry Berndes

The Gaslamp Museum at the William Heath Davis House, built in 1850, is the oldest house in San Diego’s Historic Gaslamp Quarter. Because of the shortage of lumber in the area at the time, 8 to 10 pre-cut houses were purchased from a manufacturer in Portland, Maine and shipped to San Diego. After a long journey around Cape Horn, the ship arrived in what was then referred to as “New Town.” The houses were erected there, but the only one remaining in its entirety is our historic house museum. You will notice that the style of the structure is of a salt-box style house prevalent in New England at that time.

Each room represents a different period in the house’s history, from its use as a pre-Civil War military officer’s barracks to that of a make-shift hospital, to the home of the owners who saw to it that their house would eventually become the museum it is today.

Purchased by the City of San Diego in 1970s and moved to its current location at the corner of Island and Fourth Avenues in 1984, the restoration began to transform this old residence into a museum. Electricity was installed (yes, there had never been electricity in the home until the early 1980s), and the layers of wall paper were peeled back to reveal its earlier décor. Then-Museum Curator, Mary Jarolmon worked tirelessly to restore the house to its current state as a museum for all to appreciate and enjoy.

Be sure to browse through the Gift Shop area, where there are a number of displays explaining the various periods in downtown San Diego’s early history. Among the displays, you will see three large cases holding a model replica of the original “New Town”. There are small placards next to some of the model buildings that describe what buildings now sit in those locations. Keep your eyes open for additional displays since they are dispersed throughout the gift shop.

They offer many different types of tours for our guests from Children’s Tours to Gaslamp Quarter Walking Tours to tours of the William Heath Davis House Museum. The tours serve as an educational tool that allows the Foundation to fulfill its mission of preserving the cultural, historical and architectural heritage of the Gaslamp Quarter

They also offer Custom Tours for groups of 10 or more that include Architectural Tours and Red Light District Tours. Recently, several different paranormal research teams conducted investigation of spirit activity in the Davis House, and their findings were similar and quite stunning. Based on their investigations, we have developed a Ghost Tour of the Davis House. All our tours either take place at or begin at the Gaslamp Museum at the William Heath Davis House, 410 Island Avenue between 4th and 5th Avenues in the Gaslamp.

Join us as we celebrate the 120 year anniversary of the 1892 Cabrillo Festival. During the land boom of the 1880s, San Diego’s population swelled to over 30,000; yet by 1890 the population had dropped to less than half because of the economic turndown experienced nationally and locally. This recession caused bank failures, lost jobs, and numerous bankruptcies. Even Wyatt Earp left town unable make a living as a saloon owner or to sell his acquired properties.

The First Cabrillo Festival of 1892 was created to counter the economic depression of the 1890’s. In the hope of promoting San Diego by attracting visitors to its shores, the founding fathers decided to produce a festival celebrating the 350th anniversary of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo’s discovery of San Diego Bay in 1542. Festivities included a staged reenactment of Cabrillo landing on the California shore, races, full dress ball, banquets, literary exercises and a grand parade in the heart of downtown.

Travel back in time by reliving this grand festival and parade through vintage photos, historical newspaper archives, and artifacts. Admission to The Mary Joralmon Gallery and the exhibit is free. To view the historical William Heath Davis House, admission is $5.00 or $4.00 for seniors, students and military.

Elijah’s Restaurant, Delicatessen and Catering

Posted by Barry Berndes

dining tour of the city

Elijah’s Restaurant,  Delicatessen & Catering  Offers Lots of Delicious Alternatives

Elijah’s Restaurant, Delicatessen and Catering Kearny Mesa is opens daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner from 8 a.m. till 9 p.m. $10–$20)). It’s a local favorite offering the best-tasting Jewish food at the right prices with quick, friendly service in a comfortable setting with plenty of comfortable seating.

Breakfast at  Elijah’s Restaurant, Delicatessen and Catering Kearny Mesa

The menu is jammed-packed with mouthwatering selections. Whether you choose blintzes or lox, cream cheese and bagels for breakfast, everything is good.

Lunch at Elijah’s Restaurant, Delicatessen and Catering Kearny Mesa

For lunch, hungry diners will be hard-pressed to finish one of their sky high sandwiches such as the Empire State Building. This monster is a hot pastrami, Swiss cheese and corned beef extravaganza served on rye with Russian dressing.

And their hot pastrami was voted best pastrami in San Diego by the San Diego Jewish Journal. Other sure to please selections include their patty melt and their smoked turkey club.

Dinner at Elijah’s Restaurant, Delicatessen and Catering Kearny Mesa

Topping the list for dinner entrées is the Atlantic salmon with a savory lemon caper sauce. No less spectacular is the liver and onions with their stuffed cabbage rolls.

Desserts include delicious German chocolate cake and, of course, the best tasting New York cheesecake you have ever had.

They have a huge banquets and catering selection offered at very competitive prices.

 

 

Kearny Mesa
7061 Clairemint Mesa Blvd. (858-455-1461)Catering (858-353-5528