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SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO LA JOLLA TODAY • MAY 24, 2013 LAJOLLATODAY READERS CHOICE AWARDS B E S T R E S TA U R A N T S 2 0 1 3 La Jolla’s Top Picks of 2013 La Jolla is one of the most vibrant areas of our city when it comes to finding something to eat. Whether you’re searching for fine dining or a bite on the go, our community has it all. From sumptuous seafood to delectable desserts, and from gourmet gastro delights to international cuisine with a La Jollan flair, you’ll find it here in our seaside village. We enjoy some of the finest culinary creations from some of the most highly regarded chefs in the world, who build inspired menus by drawing on resources just mere miles away — from our ocean and fertile farmlands — and create some of the best local fare to be had. Now, our readers have lent their dining expertise to vet the best of the best in La Jolla. This list of restaurants may not include every single eatery in our community — there are simply too many to name — but it does include those that, according to our readers, are so delectable that recognition was necessary. Locals have taken the time to let us know where the best dining experiences can be had in La Jolla, and we listened. We tallied the votes over several months and highlighted those that go above and beyond to make our community the gourmet haven that it is. La Jolla Today would like to thank the readers who took the time to speak out about which dining establishments deserve to be singled out, and we would especially like to thank the winners who work so hard to hone their craft. Use this list to revisit an old favorite or perhaps try somewhere new that’s getting rave reviews. And when you happen upon one of those top-notch restaurants proudly displaying its Readers Choice Award, take a moment to let them know how much you appreciate what they do. — Kendra Hartmann Editor, La Jolla Today READERS CHOICE AWARDS B E S T R E S TA U R A N T S 2 0 1 3 Readers Choice A W A R D S 2 0 1 3 Congratulations to the following businesses who were chosen by the readers of the La Jolla Today. Readers were asked to cast ballots for their favorite choices. This was no simple task! With more than 50 categories, our readers came through with overwhelming response. We wish to thank all the readers who took the time to recognize these businesses that do so much to make La Jolla, Bird Rock and University City such wonderful communities. OVERALL RESTAURANT RESTAURANT SERVICE NEW RESTAURANT BEST CHEF BEST BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER TAKE – OUT SUNDAY BRUNCH FAMILY RESTAURANT BEST ATMOSPHERE RESTAURANT W/ BEST WINE LIST WINE SHOP BEER SELECTION SPORTS BAR BEST PLACE TO PEOPLE WATCH RESTAURANT W/ LIVE MUSIC HAPPY HOUR COMFORT FOOD LATE NIGHT EATERY PLACE TO GO ON A BUDGET BEST PLACE TO HAVE A BIRTHDAY PATIO DINING PET FRIENDLY RESTAURANT MOST ROMANTIC BEST OCEAN VIEW AMERICAN APPETIZER ASIAN FUSION BBQ BAGEL BAKERY BAR BURRITO BURGER CAFE CATERING CHINESE COFFEE SHOP DELI DESSERTS FISH & CHIPS FISH TACO FRENCH GELATO GREEK HEALTHY DINING ICE CREAM INDIAN ITALIAN KOREAN MARGARITA MARTINI MEDITTERANEAN MEXICAN MEXICAN (FAST FOOD) OMELETE ORGANIC PASTRY PHO PIZZA SALAD SALAD BAR SANDWICH SEAFOOD STEAK SUSHI THAI VEGETARIAN WINE BAR WINGS FROZEN YOGURT TRULUCK'S TRULUCK'S HERRINGBONE KIMBERLEY KRAMER @ ESTANCIA THE COTTAGE ADOBE EL RESTAURANTE TRULUCK'S LEAN & GREEN CAFE THE COTTAGE SAMMY'S WOODFIRED PIZZA EDDIE V'S NINE-TEN BEVMO KARL STRAUSS BREWING COMPANY BARFLY BIRD ROCK COFFEE ROASTERS BARFLY ROPPONGI HARRY’S COFFEE SHOP THE SPOT + BEAUMONT'S RIGOBERTO'S BARBARELLA MUSTANGS & BURROS LUPI THE MARINE ROOM EDDIE V'S + MARINE ROOM BUBBA'S SMOKEHOUSE BBQ ROPPONGI ROPPONGI + ROY YAMAGUCI'S PACIFIC RIM BUBBA’S SMOKEHOUSE BBQ BUSY BEE’S GIRARD GOURMET+ AROMA CAFE BARFLY JOSE'S COURTROOM BURGER LOUNGE THE LIVING ROOM GIRARD GOURMET & GUISSEPE CHINA CHEF BIRD ROCK COFFEE ROASTERS GIRARD GOURMET GIRARD GOURMET HENNESSY’S WAHOO’S FISH TACO TAPENADE GELATERIA FRIZZANTE DAPHNE'S LEAN & GREEN CAFE COLD STONE TANDORI CAFE MILANO (T) OSTERIA ROMANTICA LITTLE KOREA JOSE'S COURTROOM DONOVAN'S WISKNLADLE JOSE'S COURTROOM ORTEGA’S PLACE THE COTTAGE WISKNLADLE AROMA CAFE PHO LA JOLLA AMICI'S LEAN & GREEN CAFE WHOLE FOODS JERSEY MIKE’S TRULUCK’S DONOVAN’S ALOHA SUSHI SPICE N' RICE LEAN & GREEN CAFE FINCH'S HENNESSEY’S FROGLANDERS NINE-TEN MUSTANGS & BURROS AMICI'S AMANDA BAUMGARTEN @ HERRINGBONE HARRY’S COFFEE SHOP LEAN & GREEN CAFE & PREP KITCHEN LUPI CHINA CHEF LA VALENCIA + THE SHORES FOREVER FONDUE HERRINGBONE LUPI WINE TIME BARFLY LA JOLLA BREWHOUSE + PROSPECT BAR & GRILL THE LIVING ROOM BEAUMONT'S TRULUCK'S BUBBA'S SMOKEHOUSE BBQ BARFLY PIZZA ON PEARL SAMMY’S WOODFIRED PIZZA LA DOLCE VITA BEAUMONT'S NINE-TEN + LA VALENCIA CRAB CATCHER THE SPOT AZUL BLUEFIN FUSION -PANERA BREAD FRENCH GOURMET PROSPECT BAR & GRILL ALFONSO'S SMASHBURGER BRICK N’ BELL AROMA CAFE MANDARIN HOUSE HARRY’S COFFEE SHOP + BRICK N' BELL SANDWICH CLUB + ELIJAH'S DELI AROMA CAFE + COLD STONE CREAMERY -RUBIO’S THE FRENCH GOURMET -APOLLONIA WHISKNLADLE BARDOT + 31 FLAVORS ROYAL INDIA LUPI LITTLE KOREA PUESTO MANHATTAN DAPHNE'S ALFONSO'S RUBIOS HARRY’S COFFEE SHOP LEAN & GREEN CAFE GIRARD GOURMET PLEIKU PHO PIZZA ON PEARL + PRONTO PIZZA WHISKNLADLE -GIRARD GOURMET + AROMA EL PESCADOR + CRAB CATCHER FLEMING’S (T) AZUL STATION SUSHI CHEDI THAI WHISKNLADLE BODEGA THE SPOT YOGI TOPI HERRINGBONE + MUSTANGS & BURROS ROPPONGI OHANA CAFE -BROCKTON VILLA COME ON IN CAFE MUSTANGS & BURROS PORKYLAND ADOBE EL RESTAURANTE BROCKTON VILLA MUSTANGS & BURROS EDDIE V'S LA JOLLA COUNTRY MARKET -KARL STRAUSS BREWING COMPANY PANERA BREAD TRULUCK'S PROSPECT BAR & GRILL WHISKNLADLE THE LIVING ROOM PORKYLAND -PIATTI RISTORANTE COME ON IN GEORGE'S AT THE COVE BROCKTON VILLA HARRY'S COFFEE SHOP CAFE MILANO PF CHANG'S -BRICK ‘N’ BELL JULIAN BAKERY KARL STRAUSS BREWING COMPANY PORKYLAND JEFF'S BURGERS MUSEUM CAFE --THE LIVING ROOM -KRAFTY KREPES -OSCAR'S MEXICAN SEAFOOD MAITRE D' --PREP KITCHEN --PIATTI RISTORANTE & BAR -SU CASA BARFLY THE LIVING ROOM SU CASA RIGOBERTO’S ADOBE EL RESTAURANTE -FRENCH GOURMET PHO UTC & GRILL -AMICI'S -LA SHORE MARKET EDDIE V'S EDDIE V'S TADASHI SUSHI LE BASIL THAI CUISINE MARKETPLACE GRILL NINE- TEN --- Roppongi (left), Brockton Villa (above) and Herringbone (top) THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT LA JOLLA… BEST BREAKFAST BEST OMELETTE BEST BRUNCH READERS CHOICE AWARDS B E S T R E S TA U R A N T S 2 0 1 3 now serving dinner! Patio and Cottage Dining in La Jolla 7702 Fay Avenue • 858-454-8409 cottagelajolla.com LA JOLLA TODAY READERS CHOICE AWARDS 2013 · FRIDAY, MAY 24, 2013 · PAGE 3 4 FRIDAY READERS CHOICE AWARDS 2013 MAY 24, 2013 La Jolla Today Best Overall Restaurant Truluck’s Truluck’s is an escape — a getaway for the senses. Savor the freshest crab, direct from the restaurant’s own fisheries. Truluck’s boasts: “From our traps to your table in less than 24 hours.” Enjoy the fresh-catch seafood menu or select tender, juicy steaks grilled to perfection. Then complement it all with delicious wines by the glass and bottle. Come early and enjoy Truluck’s cocktail hour from 4:30 to 7 p.m. and enjoy their special priced appetizers and drink menu. Truluck’s at UTC Aventine 8990 University Center Lane (858) 453-2583 trulucks.com 0 Best Restaurant Service Truluck’s (See listing under Best Overall) 0 Best New Restaurant Truluck’s Voted Best Overall Restaurant Truluck’s is an escape — a getaway for the senses. Savor the freshest crab, direct from the restaurant’s own fisheries. Truluck’s boasts: “From our traps to your table in less than 24 hours.” Enjoy the freshcatch seafood menu or select tender, juicy steaks grilled to perfection. Then complement it all with delicious wines by the glass and bottle. Come early and enjoy Truluck’s cocktail hour from 4:30 to 7 p.m. and enjoy their special priced appetizers and drink menu. Truluck’s at UTC Aventine 8990 University Center Lane (858) 453-2583 trulucks.com Osteria Romantica Herringbone La Jolla’s long-awaited new kid on the block dishes out oceaninspired eats that are as fresh as the restuarant’s concept. With six 100-year-old olive trees adorning the expansive eatery, a playful spread of handcrafted cocktails in the restaurant’s cozy lounge and mouthwatering seafood fare crafted by celebrity chef Amanda Baumgarten, the 21st century wonderland is certainly one of La 1241 Prospect St., La Jolla Nuova Cucina Italina Gold Medal: Best Italian Jolla’s new favorite go-to hotspots for Sunday supper with the family, oyster happy hour with coworkers or cocktails with friends. Herringbone 7837 Herschel Ave. (858) 459-0221 herringboneeats.com Best Chef 0 Kimberley Kramer at Mustangs & Burros Executive chef Kimberley Kramer brings a deliciously unique and inviting Southwestern-inspired dining experience to patrons at Mustangs & Burros at Estancia La Jolla. Throughout her extensive culinary expertise in California continental cuisine, Kramer has always been inspired by fresh seasonal products and sustainable seafood. The New Mexico-raised chef fuses influences from American and European chefs she has worked with throughout her career to craft the regionally motivated, locally grown and fresh cuisine at Mustangs & Burros. Mustangs & Burros Estancia La Jolla 9700 N. Torrey Pines Rd. (858) 964-6537 estancialajolla.com 0 Best Breakfast The Cottage The Cottage is a quintessential La Jolla destination beloved by locals, tourists, the young, the old, regu- (619)313-4268 www.kraftykrepes.com Established in 2012, Krafty Krépes is a reflection on a traditional Creperie from Northern France back in the 60's. The décor shouts traditional with dark wood finishes, smokey wall colors and minimalistic flooring. Chalkboard menus and retro style fridges complete the vision. Using a traditional Brittany, France batter recipe, Krafty Krépes has designed a light, fun menu - healthy and fresh - all made to order. The open cooking area allows customers to watch their dish being made, communicate directly to the chef to ensure it is made the way they want it, while also functioning as entertaining area for children while they wait. The objective of Krafty Krépes is to engage our customers, provide the very best in service, fresh healthy foods and an overall atmosphere of belonging. This mixed with the flavors of Europe and America mixed within traditional crépes ensures one visit will never be enough. Having the best food or the best-designed restaurant is nothing without good staff. Come in and meet our team...second to none in service and customer satisfaction. Oh! And they make the best crépes in town. Our healthy, fresh and made to order food also allows for Gluten Free options. Thank you La Jolla for voting us Best Dessert! www. osteriaromantica.com • Visit our other Point Loma locations: Osteria Romantica Lighthouse Grill • Seafood, Pasta & Cocktails 2151 Avenida de la Playa La Jolla • 858.551.1221 1101 Scott St. Point Loma • 619.224.2272 22833 Avenida de Portugal Point Loma • 619.523.1301 FRIDAY READERS CHOICE AWARDS 2013 MAY 24, 2013 La Jolla Today lars and newcomers alike. Set in the historic “Columbine” cottage built in the early 1900s, The Cottage serves up an exceptional breakfast and lunch on a sun-drenched patio behind. Its gourmet omelets, stuffed French toast, healthy muffins and trademark granola are memorable and worth the weekend wait, which is sweetened by the coffee and cake samples offered to those milling on the sidewalk waiting for a table. In the summer, the restaurant stays open for dinner. The Cottage is also available for rent for parties and receptions year-round. The Cottage 7702 Fay Ave. (858) 454-8409 www.cottagelajolla.com 0 Best Lunch Adobe El Restaurante Café Milano Voted Best Italian (tie) Owner/chef Pasquale Cianni brought northern Italian cuisine to La Jolla 12 years ago and has been successfully pleasing both local residents and out-of-towners — even out-of-the-country guests — with his homemade pappardelle pasta, veal ossobuco, lobster ravioli and other many authentic Italian dishes. Café Milano offers an exciting and incredible experience for the whole family at affordable prices. Early bird special: 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Choose a select soup or salad, menu entrée, and dessert for $18.95.day. Café Milano 711 Pearl St. 454-3806 www.cafemilanolajolla.com The Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa sets the stage for an exceptional La Jolla lunch experience at the AAA Four-Diamond Resort. The elegant, warm and inviting atmosphere at Adobe El Restaurante is host to spacious indoor seating and outdoor patio tables overlooking the resort’s lush gardens. Adobe’s menu is replete with a fresh spread of savory entrees, locally grown produce and fresh seafood with distinctive Southern California flair. This lunch favorite is the perfect place to host business lunches, dine and gab with the gals, or bring the family together. 5 Adobe El Restaurante Estancia La Jolla 9700 N. Torrey Pines Rd. (858) 964-6500 estancialajolla.com Best Dinner 0 Truluck’s (See listing under Best Overall) 0 Best Take-Out Lean & Green Café It’s no secret that eating healthy is the best way to eat. And more importantly eating clean or organic food will help improve your health. Lean and Green does just that with an impressive array of organic gourmet salads, wraps, bowls, soups and decadent organic sweet bowls, but also offers thirstquenching, freshly made organic juices, smoothies and smart shots. Lean and Green Café is also a vegetarian-friendly, vegan-friendly café located in La Jolla open for breakfast, lunch and dinner (order by 4 p.m. and pick-up by 6 p.m.) on the go, and offers free delivery within La Jolla Village with any $12 minimum order. And don’t forget their awesome “Happy Hour Smoothie” every day from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. Only $3 smoothies and $4 shakes! With Lean and Green Cafe, healthy is tasty! Lean & Green Cafe 7825 Fay Ave. (858) 459-5326 leanandgreencafe.com VOTED BEST COFFEE SHOP 3 Years in a Row! Bird Rock Coffee Roasters would like to thank all our wonderful customers for this honor. Also Voted National Micro-Roaster of the year 2012 ! - San Diego’s only source for Direct Trade, Auction and Micro lot coffees - 13 Coffees rated 90 and over on Coffee Review - Chosen as one of Southern California’s Best Coffee Roasters 5627 La Jolla Blvd. • 858.551.1707 • www.birdrockcoffeeroasters.com Mucha’s Gracias! Thank You for voting us Best Mexican (Fast) Food! 621 Pearl St. La Jolla • 454-8006 In Appreciation Free Street Taco! No purchase neccesary. Steak, Carnitas or Carne Asada (Shrimp excluded). With coupon. One free taco per person. Expires 6-8-13 621 Pearl St. La Jolla 454-8006 6 FRIDAY READERS CHOICE AWARDS 2013 MAY 24, 2013 La Jolla Today 0 Best Sunday Brunch The Cottage (See entry under Best Breakfast) 0 Best Family Restaurant Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza Families with discerning taste should count on Sammy’s pizza for their family night out. Patrons clearly support Sammy’s mission to mix flavor with freshness in its pizza. Forget the boring cheese and pepperoni of old — Sammy’s redefines the genre with pies such as artichoke and homemade sauce, five cheeses or a salad pizza comprising of organic arugula, pear and prosciutto. How about soups like lobster bisque and Kobe beef chili; not what you’d expect from a typical pizza place. Sammy’s offers a more simplified menu for the kids. Voted Best Patio Dining Mustangs & Burros Executive chef Kimberley Kramer brings a deliciously unique and inviting Southwestern-inspired dining experience to patrons at Mustangs & Burros at Estancia La Jolla. Throughout her extensive culinary expertise in California continental cuisine, Kramer has always been inspired by fresh seasonal products and sustainable seafood. The New Mexico-raised chef fuses influences from American and European chefs she has worked with throughout her career to craft the regionally motivated, locally grown and fresh cuisine at Mustangs & Burros. Mustangs & Burros Estancia La Jolla 9700 N. Torrey Pines Rd. (858) 964-6537 estancialajolla.com (Small Tastes) $4.95 SALSICCE POLPETTINE AL POMODORO housemade meatballs (2) with tomato ragú sauce GRIGLIATA DI VERDURE griddled seasonal vegetables, garlic, XVOO OLIVETTE READERS CHOICE AWARDS B E S T R E S TA U R A N T S 2 0 1 3 Thank you to our loyal Patrons for selecting us a Readers Choice for: BEST ITALIAN, BEST DINNER & BEST RESTAURANT WINE LIST 3 YEARS IN A ROW! House seasoned olives ALSO BEST PET FRIENDLY RESTAURANT ZUCCHINE RIPIENE NOW SERVING OUR NEW SPRING & SUMMER MENU meat stuffed zucchini, topped with tomato sauce GIARDINIERA ITALIANA pickled mixed vegetables ANTIPASTO DI SALUMI assorted cold cuts, cheese CROSTINI CARUSO housemade toasted bread topped with braised chicken livers, sherry wine sauce 0 Best Atmosphere Eddie V’s At Eddie V’s soul, passion, and goal define the atmosphere. The driving force throughout Eddie V’s is its core ideal: best today, better tomorrow. The restaurant began, as partnerships often do, with friendship and food. It grew into a successful entrepreneurial effort of Eddie V’s 1270 Prospect St. (858) 459-5500 eddiev.com 0 Restaurant Wine Selection Nine-Ten Nine-Ten is the place to go to stimulate your taste buds and expand your appreciation of the culinary art. Voters recognized the restaurant again and again for its service, wine selection, happy hour and even nominated its burger as one of the best in the Village. Nine-Ten boasts a well-balanced, extensive and award-winning wine cellar. The list is a carefully selected excursion of local and global vineyards recognized with an Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator magazine. The restaurant is not just about fine dining by night. Nine-Ten also serves breakfast and lunch, and patrons are welcome to stop by for a casual bar-side panini. Breakfast can get gourmet fast if you opt for the short-rib hash in a red wine sauce served with Voted La Jolla’s Best Vegetarian 5 Years in a Row BAR MENU 5PM-CLOSING EVERY EVENING mild Italian sausage sautéed with red onion, garlic, white wine Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza 702 Pearl St. (858) 456-5222 sammyspizza.com longtime friends Guy Villavaso and Larry Foles. The partnership is built upon a shared admiration for legendary restaurants and a passion for bringing the best flavors of prime seafood and steaks to markets nationwide. It is this spirit of camaraderie, bonding over cutlery and cuisine, laughter and libations, that is infused into the distinctive dining experience at Eddie V’s Restaurants. Tues•Wed•Thurs No Corkage Fee YAPPIE HOUR Dog Days of Summer are Here Doggie Social out on the Patio THANK YOU! BEST TAKE-OUT BEST VEGETARIAN BEST SALAD BEST HEALTHY DINING WINES BY CITRA (only available by the glass) Lean & Green Organic Health Cafe $4.95 TREBBIANO (white) SAN GIOVESE (red) $5.00 Martinis $3.00 Beers $4.00 Wine by the glass Every Evening 5pm til Closing www.lupivinocucina.com • 858.454.6421 • 5518 La Jolla Blvd. La Jolla, CA www.LeanAndGreenCafe.com CATERING AND FREE DELIVERY 7825 FAY AVE , LA JOLLA (in the Merril Lynch Bldg. next to La Jolla Sport Club) 858-459-LEAN (5326) FRIDAY READERS CHOICE AWARDS 2013 poached eggs and roasted onions. Nine-Ten 910 Prospect St. (858) 964-5400 nine-ten.com 0 Best Wine Shop BevMo It’s not difficult to understand why this warehouse of alcohol has grown popular. It sells every brand and region of alcohol desired. There are thousands of bottles of wine, beer and spirits on these shelves. What to choose is the only problem. Browsing the company website may help out the wandering shopper. Rating agencies give their top picks for the beer, wine and spirits. Kegs are also sold for parties. BevMo 844 Pearl St. (858) 729-0775 bevmo.com 0 Best Beer Selection Karl Strauss Brewery & Restaurant San Diego’s very own microbrewery, Karl Strauss brews and bottles its beer in a converted greenhouse just east of Pacific Beach. La Jolla oenophiles should not miss out on the freshness and flavor Karl Strauss has to offer. Two college graduates mixed their passion for handcrafted, old-world beer with technical finesse to build a strong reputation. Karl Strauss now brews 30 beers each year with seasonal offerings and sends it to 2,500 bars, restaurants, liquor stores and grocery stores throughout Southern California. Sipping a cold brew at the La Jolla restaurant is of cultural importance! Karl Strauss Brewery & Restaurant 1044 Wall St. (858) 551-2739 karlstrauss.com 0 ing in carne asada, pollo asado and carnitas, along with many other delicious, authentic Mexican specialties, this is a great place to enjoy a fabulous meal with family, friends and co-workers. But for a different taste, try the “shrimp-packed burrito,” with an average of 15 shrimp, sautéed with onions, tomatoes and cilantro to make certain you get juicy, tasty shrimp in every bite! Whether you come alone or with a group, you’re sure to enjoy unsurpassed quality food and friendly service. Jose’s Courtroom 1037 Prospect St. (858) 454-7655 joses.com Barfly in La Jolla was created by a couple of entrepreneurs who wanted to start a place that’s a cut above the normal. Although they are known in the Village for their eclectic menu, top flight DJs and dancing, their appetizer and drink happy hour is what caught the attention of readers. From 5 to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, Barfly offers significant discounts on appetizers, wines, beers and well drinks in a fun and funky atmosphere. And we’re not talking about the usual pub-grub either (although hot wings and nachos are available); fish tacos, avocado rolls, caprese salad, bruschetta and hummus falafel are offered. Best Margarita Jose’s Courtroom Jose’s has been delighting locals and visitors since 1978 with its colorful, casual, friendly ambiance. Specializ- 7 Bird Rock Coffee Roasters 5627 La Jolla Blvd. (858) 551-1707 birdrockcoffeeroasters.com 0 Best Pet-Friendly Place Lupi 0 Best Martini Donovan’s of La Jolla They may look good enough to eat, but the paintings and sculptures at Donovan’s of La Jolla are strictly off limits — so you’ll have to content yourself with the USDA Prime beef, the eatery’s star attraction. If steak isn’t in the plan, pork and veal chops and succulent seafood will satisfy the most discriminating of palates. And at Donovan’s, fresh seasonal vegetables and your choice of potato are included with each entrée. Donovan’s of La Jolla 4340 La Jolla Village Dr. (858) 450-6666 donovanssteakhouse.com Lupi Italian restaurant and wine bar offers ample seating, a sunny outdoor patio and delicious Roman-style trattoria menu options. The Bird Rock hotspot not only exudes a love for fine Italian wine and mouthwatering authentic cuisine, but it also leads the pack in hos”pet”ality for you and your beloved furry companion. Lupi’s evening “Yappie Hours” offer a social occasion for your pup, as well as great deals on martinis, beer and wines by the glass for the restaurant’s human guests. The dog-friendly social event takes place every evening from 5 p.m. to close on the patio. Lupi 5518 La Jolla Blvd. (858) 454-6421 lupivinocucina.com Harry’s Coffee Shop Restaurants come and go, but Harry’s has become an institution in La Jolla since it opened 53 years ago. The oldfashioned diner has not slapped on layer upon layer of modernity to keep pace with the decade. Instead, the breakfast joint steadfastly has served up good American fare of eggs, bacon and pancakes in the morning and club sandwiches and charbroiled burgers in the afternoon, and has kept the customers coming back. Open at 6 in the morning, closed by 3 in the afternoon, Harry’s remains a familiar, friendly place near and dear to La Jollans’ hearts. Voted Best Comfort Food 0 Harry's Coffee Shop 7545 Girard Ave. (858) 454-7381 harryscoffeeshop.com Restaurant with Live Music Barfly 0 (See entry under Best Sports Bar) Best Place to People Watch Bird Rock Coffee Roasters Bird Rock Coffee Roasters is taking specialty coffee to a whole new level. The cornerstone Bird Rock merchant is one of a dozen coffee roasters nationwide participating in the Las Mingas Project, which rewards indigenous coffee growers for exemplary work. Quality is the driving force behind Bird Rock Coffee Roasters. From the beans they buy 0 Happy Hour Roppongi Restaurant & Sushi Bar Roppongi offers the rare opportunity to sample new Asian cuisine and choose from a variety of sushi rolls in a chic atmosphere where professionals are known to cluster. Chef Stephen Window offers meals far beyond the standard fare, like Thank you to the readers of La Jolla Today for making Apollonia one of your favorite Restaurants in La Jolla. READERS CHOICE AWARDS READERS CHOICE AWARDS Thank You for Voting for us! B E S T R E S TA U R A N T S 2 0 1 3 We are dedicated to serving healthy Vietnamese Food, Always made fresh to order. In appreciation $5 OFF any order of $20 or more with coupon. Expires 6/30/13 B E S T R E S TA U R A N T S 2 0 1 3 A Special “Thank You Offer” FREE APPETIZER A choice of Spanakopita or Hummos and Pita with the purchase of two entrees at regular price. One coupon per table. Not valid with any other offers. Expires 6-30-13 7596 Fay Ave., La Jolla | 858-456-2069 | www.Pleiku-Cafe.com VOTED BEST CHINESE FOOD & TAKE-OUT 13 YEARS IN A ROW! THANK YOU! $4 OFF ANY ORDER OF $20 OR MORE CASH ORDER • Offer expires 06-23-13 Barfly 909 Prospect St. (858) 454-2323 barflylajolla.com 0 La Jolla Today to the espresso served at the coffee bar, they are always striving for perfection. The green coffee beans they seek must meet stringent standards, and then they roast and prepare this coffee with the utmost respect to those who grew it. BRCR received the pretigious 2012 National MicroRoaster of the year award. Best Sports Bar Barfly MAY 24, 2013 Greek Bistro • Casual Atmosphere • Full Bar • Heated Patio Dining • 20 Wines by the Glass Happy Hour: 3:30 - 6:30 Daily 8650 Genesee Ave. (corner of Nobel) Costa Verde Center (across from UTC mall) 858.455.1535 • ApolloniaBistro.com DELIVERING TO LA JOLLA, UTC, UCSD, PACIFIC BEACH, MISSION BEACH, NORTH CLAIREMONT FOOD BEST SEE OUR FULL MENU ON-LINE AT: lajollachinachef.com China Chef 623 Pearl St., La Jolla • 858.454-7597 8 FRIDAY READERS CHOICE AWARDS 2013 MAY 24, 2013 La Jolla Today the miso-glazed Japanese eggplant and crispy buttermilk onion rings with wasabi garlic aioli sauce. Popular for its generous happy hour portions, Roppongi is the very definition of umami: the Japanese word for savory. Roppongi Restaurant & Sushi Bar 875 Prospect St. (858) 551-5252 roppongiusa.com 0 Best Comfort Food Harry’s Coffee Shop Roy Yamaguchi’s Pacific Rim Cuisine Roy Yamaguchi’s Pacific Rim Cuisine 8670 Genesee Ave. (858) 455-1616 roysrestaurant.com V THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST BAKERY BEST PASTRIES V Voted Best Asian Fusion Roy Yamaguchi is regarded as a pioneer who mastered a distinctive style, which brought his cooking to the forefront of contemporary gastronomy. Gourmet Magazine acknowledges Yamaguchi as “the father of modern East-West cooking” while Food & Wine Magazine dubbed Roy’s Restaurant the “crown jewel of Honolulu’s East-West eateries.” Today, Roy Yamaguchi's Pacific Rim Cuisine in La Jolla is a reimagined approach to Roy’s original culinary creativity. The new menu features a great blend of signature dishes from our past, combined with exciting new creations never before seen at Roy’s. The folks at Roy’s know you'll find their passion for great food comes through in every dish! The vibrant, contemporary main dining room, expanded bar and lounge, spacious private and semi-private event spaces provide the perfect setting for any evening. BEST FRENCH Restaurants come and go, but Harry’s has become an institution in La Jolla since it opened 53 years ago. The old-fashioned diner has not slapped on layer upon layer of modernity to keep pace with the decade. Instead, the breakfast joint steadfastly has served up good American fare of eggs, bacon and pancakes in the morning and club sandwiches and charbroiled burgers in the afternoon, and has kept the customers coming back. Open at 6 in the morning, closed by 3 in the afternoon, Harry’s remains a familiar, friendly place near and dear to La Jollans’ hearts. Harry's Coffee Shop 7545 Girard Ave. (858) 454-7381 harryscoffeeshop.com 0 Best Late Night Eatery (tie) 1978 in the oldest La Jolla building in continuous use as a restaurant. It’s become a favorite for its fresh fish, steaks, burgers, salads, pasta, sandwiches and Chicago-style pizza — in other words, it offers just about anything a late-night diner could want. There’s a fullservice bar and a large selection of fine wines, too. The warm fire burning in the middle of the room seals the cozy ambiance of this late-night spot. The Spot Restaurant and Tavern 1005 Prospect St. (858) 459-0800 thespotonline.com Beaumont’s Eatery Beaumont’s has become the focal point — the only point — for nightlife in Bird Rock. Live bands play on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, and neighbors like to throw back drinks and get a little rowdy (think Bird Rock rowdy, not PB!). The menu is exceptional and unique, and offers a range of entrées, from a juicy burger to Spanish seafood paella and French country-style meatloaf. Neighbors love the Blues Brunch so much that acoustic music performances are now a regular feature on Sundays. Count on Beaumont’s for a delectable meal and a chance to meet your neighbor! Beaumont’s Eatery 5662 La Jolla Blvd. 459-0474 beaumontseatery.com The Spot Restaurant 0 This eatery opened its doors in Phở La Jolla vietnamese cuisine Healthy, Yummy, Affordable! Serving Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner 7 days a week, 10:00AM - 10:00PM Thank you la Jolla for voting us Best Pho! Best Place to go on a Budget Rigoberto’s Give your overworked wallet a break and check out the best Mexican food in town at the lowest prices. At Rigoberto’s, you can get your fill on the restaurant’s hearty burritos, quesadillas or combination platters for just a few bucks. Everything is made from scratch using the freshest ingredients and the fresh salsa bar hosts a vast spread of sauces to complete any meal. So, stop by for a tasty and budget-conscious meal any time. Rigoberto’s Taco Shop 6990 La Jolla Blvd. (858) 551-1817 rigobertostacoshop.com (858) 587-4688 • 3211 Holiday Court #102 see full menu @ pholajolla.com It’s Always a Delicious Day at… Best Place for B-day Party Barbarella The French Gourmet! Catering u Restaurant u Bakery u Wine Boutique • Full service or catering-to-go in the cuisine of your choice • California-French Cuisine in a casual setting • Traditional French pastries, baguettes, croissants, pâtés, cheeses, and more! • $25.95 3-course prix fixe dinner menu 34 Years and Still Going Strong! Breakfast & Lunch Served Daily 8am-3pm Dinner Tues - Sun 4pm-Close Barbarella is one La Jolla restaurant that really knows how to party! With private indoor and outdoor dining areas for intimate gatherings for up to 60 guests, Barbarella is sure to make your party a memorable occasion. The always-festive atmosphere at Barbarella is enhanced by the restaurant’s stellar service, full bar and delicious European-style cuisine that is sure to delight anyone. Barbarella 2171 Avenida de la Playa (858) 454-7373 barbarellarestaurant.com Call for reservations: (858) 488-1725 Catering • Restaurant • Bakery • Wine Boutique 0 READERS CHOICE AWARDS 960 TURQUOISE ST. • SAN DIEGO, CA 92109 B E S T R E S TA U R A N T S www.TheFrenchGourmet.com 2 0 1 3 0 FRIDAY READERS CHOICE AWARDS 2013 Best Patio Dining Mustangs & Burros (See entry under Best Chef) 0 Best Ocean View (tie) The Marine Room When The Marine Room opened at its current location, Franklin Roosevelt had just been elected to his third term as president. That pretty much makes The Marine Room the oldest San Diego restaurant still owned and operated by its founders in its original location. Executive chef Bernard Guillas uses all that history to his best advantage — he’s got a lot to draw from as he travels the world in search of the finest cuisine for The Marine Room’s legion of customers. The Marine Room 2000 Spindrift Drive 459-7222 marineroom.com Eddie V’s (See entry under Best Atmosphere) 0 Most Romantic The Marine Room (See entry under Best View) 0 Best American Bubba’s Smoke House BBQ After a career in the Navy serving on the USS Coronado together, Jeff and Bruce realized a longtime dream: open the perfect restaurant. The friends put their heads together to define perfection: food good enough to collect regulars in a joint friendly enough to become a neighborhood tradition. Thus, Bubba’s Smoke House BBQ was born in La Jolla on April 21, 2009. Members of the military and La Jolla residents receive a 10 percent discount. As for the food, let’s just say it’s finger-licking good. spaces provide the perfect setting for any evening. And, of course the from-the-heart hospitality has, and always will be, a cornerstone of the Roy’s experience. Roy Yamaguchi’s Pacific Rim Cuisine 8670 Genesee Ave. (858) 455-1616 roysrestaurant.com Bubba’s Smoke House BBQ 888 Prospect St. (858) 551-4227 bubbassmokehousebbq.com Roppongi Restaurant and Sushi Bar 0 Best Asian/Fusion (tie) Roy Yamaguchi’s Pacific Rim Cuisine Roy Yamaguchi is regarded as a pioneer who mastered a distinctive style, which brought his cooking to the forefront of contemporary gastronomy. Gourmet Magazine acknowledges Yamaguchi as “the father of modern East-West cooking” while Food & Wine Magazine dubbed Roy’s Restaurant the “crown jewel of Honolulu’s EastWest eateries.” Today, Roy Yamaguchi's Pacific Rim Cuisine in La Jolla is a reimagined approach to Roy’s original culinary creativity. The new menu features a great blend of signature dishes from our past, combined with exciting new creations never before seen at Roy’s. The folks at Roy’s know you'll find their passion for great food comes through in every dish! The vibrant, contemporary main dining room, expanded bar and lounge, spacious private and semi-private event 9 MAY 24, 2013 La Jolla Today (See entry under Best Happy Hour) 0 Best Appetizer Roppongi Restaurant and Sushi Bar (See entry under Best Happy Hour) 0 Tandoori Chef Best Bakery (tie) Girard Gourmet (See entry under Best Desserts) Aroma Café Aroma Café is the product of its founders’ diverse cultural backgrounds. This one-of-a-kind cafe incorporates an intersting twist of Middle Eastern and western European influences in its menu to provide a comforting second home where patrons can relax, imbibe in gourmet coffees and drinks from around the world, and munch on a selection of award winning homemade pastries at the full service cafe. Chef Sean Sommer brings his culinary expertise to the table fus- Voted Best Indian Enjoy the casual dining atmosphere and an extensive menu of authentic Indian dishes. Tandoori Chef offers eight different kinds of naan, tandoori meat and seafood platters, as well as vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free dishes. If you are new to Indian cuisine try the chef’s sampler which includes a combination of vegetarian or chicken samosas, pakora, onion bhaji and alu tikki, or one of the chef’s specialty kebabs that are marinated in Indian herbs, spices and cooked in a clay oven. Delivery and take-out available. Tandoori Chef 613 Pearl St. 858-454-6999 tandoorigroup.com Thank you for voting us #1 Indian Restaurant READERS CHOICE AWARDS B E S T R E S TA U R A N T S 2 0 1 3 IN APPRECIATION 25% OFF Our Family has proudly served La Jolla Since 1960 Entire Check with min. $25 purchase With coupon. Expires 7-23-13. Not valid with any other coupon or offer. ALL YOU CAN EAT LUNCH BUFFET $9.99 Delivery & Take -out Available www.Tandoorigroup.com 613 Pearl St., La Jolla • 858-454-6999 10 FRIDAY READERS CHOICE AWARDS 2013 MAY 24, 2013 La Jolla Today ing contemporary flavors and fresh entrees for locals to enjoy amid a nearby backdrop of the stunning Pacific. Aroma Cafe 909 Prospect St. (858) 454-4447 aromalajolla.com 0 Best Bagel Busy Bee’s Busy Bee’s is the perfect place for a busy bee to stop by for a quick bite to eat. The service is fast and the prices are decent. While the bagel place is known for its bagel sandwiches and specialty bagels like the pesto bagel and sun-dried tomato bagel, it also offers a variety of other baked goods like muffins and croissants. Busy Bee’s 6861 La Jolla Blvd. (858) 456-2738 6 YEARS IN A ROW! Living Room Café Best Bar (See entry under Best Sports Bar) 0 Best BBQ Bubba’s Smoke House BBQ 0 Best Burger Burger Lounge La Jolla 639 Pearl St. La Jolla, CA 92037 858-459-0027 Sports Arena 3944 W. Point Loma Blvd. San Diego, CA 92110 619-222-0020 Thank you La Jolla for voting us: READERS CHOICE AWARDS B E S T R E S TA U R A N T S 2 0 1 3 Best BBQ Best American The folks at Burger Lounge don’t just think burgers should taste great. They believe the common American meal should utilize healthy, sustainable ingredients as well. Burger Lounge’s vision is evident at every turn — from the organic ketchup to the wild salmon burger topped with fried green tomatoes and BBQ glaze. While this premium burger joint has other divine splurges to indulge in like the fresh vegetable salad and onion rings, Burger Lounge’s good old fashioned grass-fed burger is king here. Burger Lounge 1101 Wall St. (858) 456-0196 burgerlounge.com 0 (See entry under Best Margarita) Best Café 0 (See entry under Best American) Thank you La Jolla for voting us! Jose’s Courtroom 0 Barfly BEST FISH TACO! Best Burrito The Living Room has truly lived up to its name in La Jolla. The café has drawn young and old alike to sip tea, coffee and deluxe smoothies in a homey ambiance furnished with antique, ornate coaches and wooden tables. Patrons find the communal atmosphere inspiring and relaxing; you’ll find groups of friends smoking the hookah on the patio and others pouring over books in the back. Scrumptious desserts are available, along with wine, beer and hookah tobacco. Enjoy the views from the second floor Ocean View room and don’t miss happy hour from 3-6 p.m. offering $3 wine and beer! Living Room Cafe 1010 Prospect St. (858) 459-1187 www.livingroomcafe.com 0 Best Catering Girard Gourmet (See entry under Best Dessert) Best Chinese 0 China Chef For a taste of China in the middle of La Jolla, look no further than China Chef on Pearl Street. This authentic little gem has a wide range of traditional fare like chop suey, noodle dishes, chef specialties to choose from and great deals on $5 lunch specials from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. China Chef also offers gluten-free menu items like cashew nut chicken, shrimp with assorted vegetables and Kung-Po beef to cater to everyone’s tastes. China Chef 623 Pearl St. (858) 454-1368 lajollachinachef.com 0 Best Coffee Shop Bird Rock Coffee Roasters (See entry under Best Place to People Watch) 0 Best Deli Girard Gourmet (See entry under Best Desserts) 0 Best Desserts Girard Gourmet For as long as many La Jollans can remember, François and Diana Goedhuys have been the heart and soul of the Village community, serving up delicious, healthy fare to a seemingly endless flow of patrons who walk through Girard Gourmet’s doors each day. Now, in their 25th year running, the momand-pop deli, bakery and catering business have continued serving up La Jollans — many of whom the couple know by name — from their longstanding helm on lower Girard. François harvests many of his ingredients from his local farm and comes to the bakery with an imagination for fresh new recipes that 888 Prospect St., La Jolla 858 551 4227 OPEN 7 DAYS Sun - Thurs 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM Fri - Sat 11:00 AM - 9:30PM www.bubbassmokehousebbq.com Thanks Readers for Voting Us Best Café A Reader’s Choice for BEST SEAFOOD OPEN DAILY 10AM - 8PM 627 PEARL ST., LA JOLLA 858-456-2526 Also People Watch La Jolla’s Dessert Headquarters Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Full Bar Catering Service Cigar Lounge (2nd Floor) Open 6am–2am Everyday Wine Bar w/ Large Selection of Wine Banquet Room Available for up to 100 $15 Hooka Happy Hour 12-6 pm daily #1 Mediterranean Coffee Shop Late Night Eats Open Late ‘til 2 am Everyday! Daily Happy Hour 12-6pm $3 Wine Mimosas $4 Draft Beers $5 Well Drinks 1010 Prospect St., La Jolla, CA 92037 858.459.1187 www.livingroomcafe.net READERS CHOICE AWARDS 2013 continue to satisfy La Jollans year after year. Girard Gourmet 7837 Girard Ave. (858) 454-3321 girardgourmet.com 0 Best Fish Taco buffalo wings. You can find a list of all their promotions and specials at their website, and “like them” on Facebook to stay up-to-date with everything going on at Hennessey’s. Hennessey’s 7811 Herschel Ave. (858) 551-8772 hennesseystavern.com 0 Wahoo’s Fish Tacos Wahoo’s has become a La Jolla tradition for young and old. Ask any kid who grew up in La Jolla — they remember hanging out after school at Wahoo’s. Walls, tables, windows and even bathrooms are laden with signed memorabilia and stickers, like a giant skateboard. Starters include tasty Maui onion rings and spicy chicken tortilla soup, but it’s the fish tacos that draw the crowds. Kids continue to love the place because of the free stickers! Wahoo’s Fish Tacos 639 Pearl St. 459-0027 wahoos.com 0 Best French Best Gelato Gelateria Frizzante Gelateria Frizzante serves 140 different gelato and sorbet flavors using fresh-frozen fruits and imported Italian ingredients. They have the best selection of authentic gelato in San Diego, which pairs perfectly with their Italian-style coffee and espresso drinks! All gelato and sorbetto are made daily and they brew only fresh-roasted beans from Herkimer Coffee in Seattle. Gelateria Frizzante 1025 Prospect St., Ste 130 (858) 454-5798 0 Tapenade Best Greek Since 1998, chef Jean-Michel Diot has been serving up award-winning French-American fusion cuisine at Tapenade Restaurant. While Diot’s delectable hors d’oeuvres, reinterpreted fresh Gallic cuisine and delicately sweet desserts account for some mouthwatering menu options, the famed chef and his cuisine are not the only reasons to visit the fine-dining, coastal restaurant. With sultry live music, an on-site sommelier and excellent customer service, the Tapenade experience is worthy of a standing ovation from start to finish. Daphne’s Greek Café Tapenade 7612 Fay Ave. (858) 551-7500 tapenaderestaurant.com 0 Best Fast Food (Mexican) Ortega’s Place Ortega’s Place is a great little Mexican place with affordable, authentic Mexican food. Ortega’s dedication to staying authentic shows in its menu items like nopalitos (cactus) and milanesa. It also offers taco shop staples like carne asada fries, rolled tacos, enchiladas and chilaquiles. The shop’s California, carnitas and chile relleno burritos are also a hit with customers. You’ll love the food, atmosphere and prices! Ortega’s Place 621 Pearl St. (858) 454-8006 0 Best Fish & Chips Hennessey’s Hennessy’s is the neighborhood meeting place! Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner along with good old-fashioned Irish hospitality, 7 days a week. While fairly new to La Jolla, they are seasoned with experience. One of the more popular days for locals is Tuesday, where they know they can enjoy two of the famous giant burgers for the price of one — all day long! Other highlights on the menu include the restaurant’s fish and chips and spicy Daphne’s offers fresh, high-quality and healthful food without compromising great taste. Its menu items build upon a “Californiafresh” ideal with savory, rich and robust Mediterranean undertones. Salads are prepared to order, kabobs are hand-made daily, lean meats and seafood are grilled to order, and gyro meat is slow-roasted on the rotisserie. Many of the menu items fall under 700 calories and can be customized to accommodate low-fat, low-carb, highprotein diets as well as vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free diets. Best Healthy Dining Lean & Green Café (See entry under Best Take-Out) 0 Best Ice Cream Cold Stone Creamery Cold Stone Creamery has been around here for more than seven years, and takes pride in excellent La Jolla Today 11 Voted Best Fish Taco Daphne’s Greek Café 8657 Villa La Jolla Drive, Ste 105 623-6940 0 FRIDAY MAY 24, 2013 Wahoo’s Fish Tacos Wahoo’s has become a La Jolla tradition for young and old. Ask any kid who grew up in La Jolla — they remember hanging out after school at Wahoo’s. Walls, tables, windows and even bathrooms are laden with signed memorabilia and stickers, like a giant skateboard. Starters include tasty Maui onion rings and spicy chicken tortilla soup, but it’s the fish tacos that draw the crowds. Kids continue to love the place because of the free stickers! Wahoo’s Fish Tacos 639 Pearl St. 459-0027, wahoos.com 12 FRIDAY MAY 24, 2013 La Jolla Today READERS CHOICE AWARDS 2013 customer service. Its ice creams and sorbets are handmade every day just for you — and the thing is that you get to choose whatever mix-in you bloody well want as the proprietors prepare your confection on a frozen granite slab right in front of you. Cold Stone also added frozen yogurt to its fare and already offers cakes, shakes and smoothies. Cold Stone Creamery 909 Prospect St. 454-2300 www.coldstonecreamery.com 0 Best Indian Tandoori Chef Amici’s Voted Best Pizza East Coast duo Peter Cooperstein and Mike Forter have unlocked the secrets to the famed pizzarias in New York, Boston and Connecticut and brought a taste of that cheesy goodness right to our shores in La Jolla. Pies here are baked directly on the brick floor of the open-flame oven according to Italian tradition to produce a mouthwatering pizza with a thin, crisp, foldable crust that is distinctively delicious. Amici’s 811 Prospect St. (858) 551-0566 amicis.com Enjoy the casual dining atmosphere and an extensive menu of authentic Indian dishes. Tandoori Chef offers eight different kinds of naan, tandoori meat and seafood platters, as well as vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free dishes. If you are new to Indian cuisine try the chef’s sampler which includes a combination of vegetarian or chicken samosas, pakora, onion bhaji and alu tikki, or one of the chef’s specialty kebabs that are marinated in Indian herbs, spices and cooked in a clay oven. Delivery and take-out available Tandoori Chef 613 Pearl St. 858-454-6999 tandoorigroup.com 0 Best Italian (tie) Café Milano’s Best Korean Owner/chef Pasquale Cianni brought northern Italian cuisine to La Jolla 12 years ago and has been successfully pleasing both local residents and out-of-towners — even out-of-the-country guests — with his homemade pappardelle pasta, veal ossobuco, lobster ravioli and many other authentic Italian dishes. Café Milano an exciting and incredible experience for the whole family at affordable prices. Early bird special: 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Choose a select soup or salad, menu entrée and dessert for $18.95. Café Milano 711 Pearl St. (858) 454-3806 www.cafemilanolajolla.com Little Korea Osteria Romantica Osteria Romantica in La Jolla Shores is a gathering place for La Jollans seeking a warm, inviting ambiance, a carafe of quality international wine and authentic Italian cuisine to share among loved ones. Osteria Romantica is reminiscent of old Italian villages with vintage wine bottles adorning the walls, the voice of Pavarotti filling the room with soft melodies, and checkered tablecloths topping wooden tables. The casual, romantic setting provides the perfect taste of Italy on the La Jolla shoreline. Osteria Romantica 2151 Avenida de la Playa (858) 551-1221 www.osteriaromantica.co Little Korea is a quaint and sophisticated restaurant serving delicious Korean cuisine in the heart of La Jolla with great ocean views. Attention to detail in these wonderfully prepared dishes shows the true passion behind this great-find restaurant. Using the freshest ingredients, combined with a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere, is what makes Little Korea the perfect spot to enjoy a great dinner with friends, co-workers or just a dinner for two. Little Korea 8008 Girard Ave. (858) 551-0282 0 Best Mediterranean Whisknladle Whisknladle adheres to the belief that you don’t have to cook complicated masterpieces to create a delicious meal. They live by the mantra that fresh ingredients make the finest cuisine and they have proven that success with every made-from-scratch dish crafted at La Jolla’s favorite neighborhood bistro. Executive chef Ryan Johnston dishes out farmfresh dishes that emphasize a back -to-the-basics approach to cooking gourmet comfort food that has firmly planted Whisknladle in the hearts of La Jollans. Whisknladle 1044 Wall St. (858) 551-7575 whisknladle.com FRIDAY READERS CHOICE AWARDS 2013 Best Mexican Amici’s 811 Prospect St. (858) 551-0566 amicis.com (See entry under Best Margarita) PHOTO BY Casey Dean / LA JOLLA TODAY 0 Best Pho The Cottage Pho of La Jolla (See entry under Best Breakfast) Pho La Jolla has taken the art of Vietnamese cuisine and transformed it into something very delicious and satisfying for their customers. It presents the fusion of “East meets West” menu options, like sandwhiches, Thai tea, egg rolls and of course pho. Pho La Jolla is dedicated to serving its pho fresh, giving it a genuine flavor as if it were home-cooked right in Vietnam. Best Organic 0 Whisknladle (See entry under Best Mediterranean) Best Pastry 0 Aroma Café (See entry under Best Bakery) 0 Pho of La Jolla 3211 Holiday Court, Ste 102 University City (858) 587-4688 pholajolla.com Best Patio Dining Mustangs & Burros 0 Cold Stone Creamery Ice Cream Cold Stone Creamery 909 Prospect St. 454-2300 www.coldstonecreamery.com 0 Best Omelette (See entry under Best Chef) Voted Best La Jolla Today cious. 0 Jose’s Courtroom Cold Stone Creamery has been around here for more than seven years, and takes pride in excellent customer service. Its ice creams and sorbets are handmade every day just for you — and the thing is that you get to choose whatever mix-in you bloody well want as the proprietors prepare your confection on a frozen granite slab right in front of you. Cold Stone also added frozen yogurt to its fare and already offers cakes, shakes and smoothies. MAY 24, 2013 0 Best Pizza Best Salad Amici’s East Coast duo Peter Cooperstein and Mike Forter have unlocked the secrets to the famed pizzarias in New York, Boston and Connecticut and brought a taste of that cheesy goodness right to our shores in La Jolla. Pies here are baked directly on the brick floor of the openflame oven according to Italian tradition to produce a mouthwatering pizza with a thin, crisp, foldable crust that is distinctively deli- Lean & Green Café (See entry under Best Take-Out) 13 tives” if the label fits and the displays are colorful and arranged for aesthetic appeal. Don’t forget that all that goes for the salad bar as well — it features healthful touches, such as extra-virgin olive oil and exactly one million selections that you can alter at your discretion. Whole Foods 8825 Villa La Jolla Drive 642-6700 wholefoodsmaket.com 0 Best Sandwich Jersey Mike’s The authentic Jersey taste and high quality ingredients that go into Jersey Mike’s subs are evident with every scrumptious bite. The sub shop’s meats and cheeses are of top-quality premium brands. The bread is freshly baked in-store daily and every sub is prepared on site right in front of you. Jersey Mike’s is commited to fresh flavor, top quality, authentic tradition and community giving, a combination that has helped earn the La Jolla sub shop our top title for the Best Sandwich around. Jersey Mike’s 7836 Herschel Ave. (858) 200-9888 jerseymikes.com 0 Best Salad Bar Whole Foods Regulars of Whole Foods are already hip to the store’s reputation for cleanliness and convenience. Everything is carefully labeled “organic” or “no preserva- Best Seafood 0 Truluck’s (See entry under Best Overall Restaurant) A big THANK YOU to everyone in La Jolla for your support during our first year! READERS CHOICE AWARDS B E S T R E S TA U R A N T S 2 0 1 3 BEST PIZZA - 1ST PLACE BEST NEW RESTAURANT - 2ND PLACE BEST SALADS - 3RD PLACE 811 PROSPECT ST. (858) 729-9988 WWW.AMICIS.COM 14 FRIDAY READERS CHOICE AWARDS 2013 MAY 24, 2013 La Jolla Today 0 Best Steak Donovan’s of La Jolla Spice & Rice (See entry under Best Martini) At Spice & Rice, the light and casual indoor dining and quaint outdoor patio has a way of comforting its diners as they indulge in tantalizing, palate-pleasing Thai fare right on Girard Avenue. With myriad spices and seasonings to choose from, Spice & Rice is certain to have dishes that cater to any palate. Choices include vegetarian options, flavorful fried rice dishes and customizable mild and spicy curries that are sure to satisfy any hungry spice-lover with a hankering for Thai in La Jolla. Best Sushi 0 Aloha Sushi Lounge Living Room Café Voted Best Cafe The Living Room has truly lived up to its name in La Jolla. The café has drawn young and old alike to sip tea, coffee and deluxe smoothies in a homey ambiance furnished with antique, ornate coaches and wooden tables. Patrons find the communal atmosphere inspiring and relaxing; you’ll find groups of friends smoking the hookah on the patio and others pouring over books in the back. Scrumptious desserts are available, along with wine, beer and hookah tobacco. Enjoy the views from the second floor Ocean View room and don’t miss happy hour from 3-6 p.m. offering $3 wine and beer! Exciting, progressive culinary concepts and a relaxing, resort-style ambience has combined to make Aloha Sushi Lounge a dining must in San Diego area. One mere glance at Aloha Sushi Lounge’s menu, featuring Asian-fusion dusted with Hawaiian influences, you will see that you are in for an incredible meal. Additionally, Aloha Sushi Lounge features traditional sushi offerings while fully embracing the “new wave” philosophy of sushi, which utilized nontraditional ingredients and techniques to produce sushi specialties that come bursting with an exciting new assortment of taste sensations. Aloha Lounge’s tropical decor, highlighted by spacious cabana seating in their outdoor patio, not only lends the perfect complement to their delectable cuisine, it also provides the ideal backdrop to indulge in one of their many fine sakes, wines and sojus. Aloha Sushi Lounge 7731 Fay Ave. 551-5000 Living Room Cafe 1010 Prospect St. (858) 459-1187 www.livingroomcafe.com 0 Tel.#: 858. 454. 3325 Fax #: 858. 454. 2325 “From Our Garden to Your Plate” DELI Sandwich Best Thai 0 Spice & Rice 7734 Girard Ave. (858) 456-0466 spiceandricethaikitchen.com 0 Best Vegetarian Lean & Green Café (See entry under Best Take-Out) Best Wings 0 Hennessey’s (See entry under Best Fish & Chips) 0 Best Wine Bar Finch’s Bistro & Wine Bar Enter through the wrought iron gates and into a European courtyard that is the charming world of Finch’s Bistro and Wine Bar. The owners of Finch’s have created a serene, intimate space diana@girardgourmet.com girardgourmet.com funcookies.com Thank You for Voting us Best: DESSERT BAKERY Happy to Serve La Jolla for 26 years! CATERING Pastry FRIDAY READERS CHOICE AWARDS 2013 MAY 24, 2013 La Jolla Today 15 La Shore Thank You for Voting us Delicatesson & Liquor BEST SANDWICH 3 years in a row! where guests can escape from the real world to relax, drink great wine, enjoy live music and eat some of the best food around at very moderate prices. Quirky touches give the bistro a cozy, romantic, friendly atmosphere. Finch’s Bistro & Wine Bar 7644 Girard Ave. (at Kline St) 456-4056 finchslajolla.com 0 Best Yogurt READERS CHOICE AWARDS Froglander’s With the smoothest frozen yogurt around and a range of fruit, candy and fudge toppings that would rival Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory, a stop by Froglander’s on Pearl Street is never a bad idea. With flavors rotating every two to three days, it’s always a pleasant surprise what you’ll see on tap at Froglander’s next. The endless list of toppings — ranging from healthy options like nuts, granola and fruit to sweeter indulgences like candies, chocolate and syrups — make for a frozen treat that caters to any La Jollan’s sweet tooth. Now offering free delivery with $9 min. order. Froglander’s 915 Pearl St. (858) 459-3764 froglanders.com THANK YOU FOR VOTING! B E S T R E S TA U R A N T S 2 0 1 3 If you love our Sandwiches, tell everyone on yelp! Ask about our Daily Special! Deli Sandwiches, Liquor, Beer & Wine ATM • LOTTO • CATERING AVAILABLE Serving La Jolla for 15 years 5590 La Jolla Blvd. Ste. B, La Jolla • (858) 459-7655 Froglander’s Voted Best Frozen Yogurt With the smoothest frozen yogurt around and a range of fruit, candy and fudge toppings that would rival Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory, a stop by Froglander’s on Pearl Street is never a bad idea. With flavors rotating every two to three days, it’s always a pleasant surprise what you’ll see on tap at Froglander’s next. The endless list of toppings make for a frozen treat that caters to any La Jollan’s sweet tooth. Froglander’s 915 Pearl St. (858) 459-3764 froglanders.com Thank you La Jolla for Voting us Best Indian Food! READERS CHOICE AWARDS B E S T R E S TA U R A N T S 2 0 1 3 Royal India 3860 Valley Center Drive San Diego, CA 92130 858-792-1111 www.royalindiadelmar.com We invite you to come and experience a restaurant that is a cut above the rest Owners and Executive Chefs Sandeep (Sam) Kambo and Jagdeep (Jag) Kambo opened Royal India in the spring of 1996, with a vision of creating Royal India the finest and the ultimate destination for authentic Indian cuisine by giving magnificent ambiance and multi award winner Indian food. Kambo Brothers at Royal India infuse every dish created with their extensive knowledge and passion for perfection. Once word of their tasty signature dishes Chicken Tikka Masala, Lamb Shank, White Wine Garlic curry, Lobster Coconut pineapple curry, Mild Mango Pineapple curry, Kabuli Nan got out Royal India has been slammed and many celebrities have dined at Royal India. Kambo Brothers have given room to experiment, and created quite an eclectic menu. However, they never lost sight of their passion for fine dining. They learned ancient recipes from their MOM and serve Home style cooked food with the freshest, natural ingredients to share the dishes made with passion and love with the world and earned multiple awards including TOP CHEF at Chef of the Fest. www.royalindiadelmar.com Royal India - Del Mar | 3860 Valley Center Drive | 858-792-1111 Royal India - Gaslamp | 329 Market Street | 619-269-9999 Royal India Casual Dining - Westfield UTC | 545 La Jolla Village Drive | 858-554-1111 Kebab Grill - Westfield UTC | 4545 La Jolla Village Drive | 858-457-9999 Royal Catering Concepts | 619-402-1100 Royal India specialize in Corporate Events, Office Parties Banquets, Catering, Cruize parties. No party is too small or too big for us. They vow to only use the finest ingredients, and prepare each dish with an infusion of passion and creativity. Critics have been raving ever since they opened Royal India. Diners agree...Royal India is San Diego's best. Royal India is committed to serving only the finest foods, made with the freshest ingredients. All of our dishes are made from scratch.Our inviting decor and professional servers create a memorable dining experience. 16 FRIDAY READERS CHOICE AWARDS 2013 MAY 24, 2013 La Jolla Today Best Appetizer Best Italian Thank You La Jolla for Voting for us! 711 Pearl Street, La Jolla (858) 454-3806 www.cafemilanolajolla.com