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Fishmonger's Market recently opened in Mission Hills and brings in the dedicated Frank Terzoliis as THE fishmonger to see. Frank has a load of credentials which includes heading one of the top ten fish distributions, so don't expect anything less than the freshest, high quality seafood from this place. We eagarly listened to his words, wisdom from lessons learned as well as struggles he overcame during his rise through this industry. He's one amazing man to get to know so make sure to say hi if you stop in!

fresh fish cuts at Fishmonger's Market in San Diego

Here's a peek at their fresh seafood for purchase

The Smoking Gun in downtown San Diego

The Smoking Gun is one of the newest bars in downtown San Diego, complete with a retro vibe and comfort food headed by powerhouse chef Kevin Templeton. We were invited to check out the new southern menu and dropped by to see what new direction this would take the location. I still remembered items like alcoholic slushies from Wet Willie's and asian fusion from Blush East+West Kitchen, the predecessors.

Urban Solace at Taste of North Park

Once October rolled around, our minds had already drifted toward the annual Taste of North Park event. Due to travel and other things, we had not attended since 2014 (or 2015 if you count the mini taste) but this year was finally GAME ON. The event was held Saturday October 15, 2017 between 11-3am and we had a ticket that included beer and food ($45). There were also food only ($35) or beer only ($15) options when purchasing in advance. This new separation was a nice change especially since certain friends of mine admitted they only came for the beer! With ticket in hand, we walked between the various businesses in search of the best samples. Check out the highlights below!

It's a long and winding road to Nick and G's but this new spot in Rancho Santa Fe is a destination to add to your foodie list. The restaurant serves Mediterranean and Italian food and is located on the quiet street of Paseo Delicias. Dennis mentioned that he and his friends have biked through this area but had never eaten in this mellow neighborhood. Time to change that!

crispy parmesan brussels sprouts at Nick and G's in Rancho Santa Fe, California

Several of the staff, including our main waiter Johnny, recommended the Crispy Parmesan Brussels Sprouts.

Union Kitchen and Tap at Reader Burgers and Beer 2017

The second annual Burgers and Beer event by San Diego Reader was held in early September. I brought a friend last year and this time Dennis joined me at Golden Hill Park. I was thrilled with the addition of many beer and drink vendors rather than the limited 4-item beer booth the previous year. It finally felt like the paradise that "burgers and beer" should be! Below are some highlights and pictures from our experience at this year's event!

Taco Taco Poway camaron puerquito taco at Tacotopia at the Track

If you're a fan of tacos, then Tacotopia is a MUST! San Diego Reader holds two events each year, one at Golden Hill in May and one at the Del Mar Racetrack in September. We missed the first event due to our Europe vacation but did have a blast taco tasting in 2016. Below are some highlights and pictures from this year's event!

hamachi at Pacifica Del Mar seafood restaurant

Pacifica Del Mar provides sensational seafood dishes with a ocean view within the beautiful community of Del Mar. We last visited 2 years ago for our anniversary dinner and were delighted to return for a San Diego Restaurant Week (SDRW) preview as media! Rather than being limited to a pre-selected menu, diners pretty much have free reign over the entire menu (premium items have an additional charge). Their SDRW lunch is $20 for two courses and dinner is $40 for three courses! This promotion starts on September 24 until October 1 here and at other participating restaurants.

We came in for an early Sunday dinner while the sun was still out. Outside on the patio, you can see downtown Del Mar as well as peek at the ocean views to the west.

Red Card Cafe recently celebrated one year of business in the Bay Park area of San Diego. In July the restaurant welcomed the talented Executive Chef Jeff Larson (from Napa’s Michelin recommended Goose & Gander), who has introduced all-new dinner, lunch and brunch menus with an increased focus on quality, local farms and seasonal fare. It was finally the opportunity for Dennis to join me at this spot after my initial visit last year.

gazpacho at Red Card Cafe in San Diego California

Chino Farms Yellow Heirloom Gazpacho (sample) - basil, chili, olive oil

The chef sent out a sampling of his gazpacho prior to our appetizers. I never knew gazpacho could look this grand!

On the last Saturday of every month from 3-6 PM, ArcLight Cinemas will transform the ArcLight patio into a beer garden with local craft beers, small bites, and movie-themed giveaways. In addition to the tastings, attendees can purchase tickets to screenings of the most current anticipated films!

flight of Stone Brewing Co. beers and sliders at ArcLight on Tap in La Jolla CA

Along with a beer garden, ArcLight on Tap will be serving food samplings of ArcLight Cinema’s Café menu. Dishes include popcorn chicken, pork belly sliders, and more artisan food that is prepared fresh on site. Attendees must be over 21 years old and must provide proper identification to enter the event.

I attended in July for the second of the series (June 24th, July 29th, or August 26th). There's one more event left as of this post but ArcLight Cinemas may opt to extend the promotion past the summer.

After a quick transformation period over three days, Romesco Mexiterranean Cocina opened in LIttle Italy, taking over the space previously occupied by the popular Bracero Cocina de Raiz. We were invited to check out the new brunch menu and immediately noticed one familiar item after another... especially the Albacore Two Ways. Our knowledgeable server James confirmed that the menu carried over many signature dishes from Bracero but also added in special dishes from Romesco in Bonita. We asked several staff about their favorites but with so many delicious options, not even they could agree on just one or two!

seared tuna at Romesco Mexiterranean Cocina in San Diego

Sesame Seared Yellowfin Tuna Sashimi (9.95) - jalapeno, ponzu

The sashimi made the initial cut for appetizers. The thickly sliced tuna showcased fresh fish with a beautifully seared edge. We loved the texture of the sesame seeds along with the subtle jalapeño bite.