I recently ventured to a farm-to-table restaurant by the name of Terra, located in the college area. I had never been,  but had heard of it through family.  When they suggested Terra for a birthday dinner, I was more than happy to check it out. I was especially excited to try a farm-to-table restaurant, which was something new to me. Before Terra, I was only vaguely familiar with the concept. Now, after dining at Terra, I am very aware of just how splendid farm-to-table can be.

But what exactly is farm-to-table? Allow me to fill you in (if you don’t already know).

• Farm-to-table refers to a movement concerned with producing food locally and delivering that food to local consumers.
• The movement may be associated with organic farming, sustainable agriculture, and community supported agriculture.
• Farm-to-table calls for the use of the freshest ingredients, while attempting to educate us about the important, and a lot of the time forgotten, link between farmers, farm communities, ancient food production practices, and the food we eat.
• A restaurant that chooses to buy their produce directly from local food producers regularly yields healthier, better quality meals for their customers.                                     

Sound a bit boring? Maybe. But believe me, you won’t find it boring when you’re eating it. The food at Terra is great, unbelievably fresh, and deliciously interesting. The service here is amazing too; our waitress for the night was extremely attentive and knowledgeable.

The food and the service come together to create this great vibe you get from the place. The ambiance is relaxing and the decor is simple and rustic. Even though it was pretty busy, the hostess was very understanding when we told her that we were still waiting for the rest of our party. She sat us at the bar and we ordered a couple drinks while we waited.

Keeping with the great vibes and comfortable atmosphere, the bartender was in a good mood – very helpful and informative. We tried a Bloody Mary and one of their specialty cocktails – a Ginger Lemongrass Mojito. Both were amazing; the Bloody Mary was flavorful and spicy, and the Mojito was unlike any I have ever tasted.

When our party arrived, we were seated immediately, thanks to our hostess. The most difficult part of the night was choosing an entrée. Everything on the menu looked amazing, and I pledged at once to keep coming back until I had tried everything. Twice.

Sea Bass

We eventually managed to decide, and our questions were answered knowledgeably by our waitress. Our meals appeared, and we devoured them almost as quickly as they arrived. All of us agreed that this was one of the better meals we’d had in a long time. The freshness of the food was exceptional, along with the flawless presentation and elegant preparation. Every meal was cooked to perfection, and very well thought out; everything on the plate had flavors that stood out, yet complimented each other. Sides like the honey glazed mashed potatoes kept things exciting.

The dessert was just as good, with lots of classic choices, like Crème Brulee, and also some creative new ones, like Chipotle Chocolate Cake. I had my usual choice, the Crème Brulee. It was incredible.

Overall, I was very impressed with the quality of food at Terra. 

You can really taste the freshness, and it makes a big difference. The interesting combination of flavors and ingredients is extraordinary. Everything at Terra is made from scratch; from the freshest and best ingredients, often with a delicious twist. This includes the sauces and condiments. Even the ketchup is homemade in Terra’s kitchen, with a distinct flair.

Terra’s food is not the only thing that leaves an impression. The nice lighting, simple décor, and great service make for a calming and casual atmosphere. Jeff, the chef/ owner, sometimes comes out at the end of your meal to say hello and ask about your experience.

It is great to find a restaurant that uses local grown foods and a sustainable approach with such an interesting, appealing outcome. With its charming atmosphere, mouth-watering food, and pleasant service, Terra is a refreshing choice for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and will be for a long time to come.

All photos taken from Google images

• Terra is located just a few blocks away from the Best Western Lamplighter Inn!!!

•  Terra has great vegetarian choices.

• Try:
• Lobster Bisque
• Lobster Mac n Cheese
• Chipotle Skirt Steak

• Good desserts: Crème Brulee, Chipotle Chocolate Cake, Chocolate Cigar

• Terra is located on:

             7091 El Cajon Blvd.

            San Diego, CA92115

• Phone: (619) 293-7088
• Email: info@terrasd.com

• Hours — Brunch:  Sun 9:00am – 2:00pm
• Lunch:  Mon – Fri 11:30am – 2:00pm
• Early Dining: Sun & Tues – Thurs 4:30pm – 6:00pm
• Dinner: Tues – Sun from 4:30pm

• Directions from Best Western Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU:

1. Head southwest on El Cajon Blvd toward Art St
2. Make a U-turn at Art St
3. Destination will be on the right – 7091 El Cajon Blvd.

Sunset Cliffs is a wonderful land of cliffs jutting out into the ocean, caves to explore, beautiful vistas and hills, fun trails, gorgeous rock formations, and, of course, amazing views of the ocean, perfect for sunsets. (Also perfect for trying to spot that elusive green flash at the end of one.)

Looking out over the Pacific Ocean, “The Cliffs” are famous for hosting awe-inspiring views and even more breathtaking sunsets. No matter the time, season, or weather, Sunset Cliffs is a remarkably beautiful place to be.

Whether coming to Sunset Cliffs seeking exploration and adventure, or peace and relaxation, you’re at the right place. There can be crowds at sunset, but if you know where to go, the crowds can be avoided (check the map at the bottom of the page). Sunset Cliffs is at it’s best when you can find your own little nook in the cliffs and relax, while watching sparkling waves roll in across a vast ocean, gradually getting closer until they finally crash into the cliffs below. In the moment, it becomes easy to forget what the world is like outside of this beautiful place.

Out of all of San Diego’s natural wonders, Sunset Cliffs is my all-time favorite. Standing on the cliffs looking out, the ocean seems endless. Its vastness stretches as far as the eye can see, and makes me realize how completely insignificant I am to it. The ocean has been here, bringing life and returning it to the sand, for millions of years, and will go on for millions more after I am gone. This should be an overwhelming and possibly frightening thought, yet, its not. Standing there on the cliffs, these thoughts bring a certain kind of peace; an appreciation for this continuous cycle of life, and for something much bigger than myself.

Sunset Cliffs is an amazingly peaceful place that makes you stop and think. However, after the epiphanies wash over you, it’s time to explore! Here are some of the coolest spots:

How to Get to Rope Beach

If you’re starting from the parking lot located at the very end of Sunset Cliffs Blvd, (map, directions, and parking tips below), there is a great sandy beach under the cliffs that is just as fun to get to as it is to be there. It involves repelling down a small cliff by holding onto a rope tied to a rock. I know, it sounds dangerous, but it really is pretty safe and not as crazy as it sounds. You could probably jump into the sand from the part of the cliff that you repel down without getting hurt (I know dogs can), but I would definitely advise against that, I’m pretty sure that rope is there for a reason. So, to get here, turn left once you can go no further on Sunset Cliffs Blvd (it’s easy because left is the only way you can go, the street is called Ladera) and take the very next right to get to the parking lot. Drive all the way down the road past a nice viewpoint and a little tree grove, and park in the lot. Walk west towards the ocean from the lot, onto the dirt trail, and keep going west. You will find a trail that leads down. Follow that trail, down along the chain link fence is one way; keep on the trail and you will come upon a rock with ropes attached to it. Grab the ropes, repel onto the beach, and you’re there! The sand on this beach is great; bring your dog if you want, because police and lifeguards are very rarely going to try to get down there. So be careful, because there will be nobody to save you if you get stupid!

Fun Hiking Trails and Secret Beaches

If hiking is your thing, here’s where you want to go. Park in the same parking lot I mentioned above, the one on the map at the bottom of this page. Walk south from the parking lot. From here, there is a myriad of trails to take. I suggest taking the ones that look like the trails less traveled (meaning not the wide trail that is furthest from the cliffs, that’s just kinda boring and much too easy). Continue south up and down ridges, or down almost any trail that leads you south continuously, and it will take you to a very cool tree tunnel. Continue on your journey through the tunnel (it rocks!), and you will come out onto an old soccer field. Cross that field, keep following that trail and you can go for miles. You can also get down to the beach after crossing the soccer field. Just follow the trail down at some point (it’s not too difficult to find, you’ll see the path because lots of surfers go down this way), and you’ll find a big sandy beach, or maybe a small sliver of beach, it all depends on the tide. The beach is great either way, just be prepared to get a little wet if the tide is high. You can walk along this beach for a while, and find cool rock formations and caves. The waves here are great for surfing, but if you plan to paddle out, be ready for territorial local surfers.

If you’re not planning on going too far, but still want to do some adventuring, there is another cool place to explore when you reach the tree tunnel. Instead of going into the tree tunnel when you reach it, look down and to the right. It looks like absolutely nothing is down there, just a big rock and overgrowth. However, if you choose to climb down to the rock and go around it, you’ll find another tunnel-like trail that leads to an ocean overlook, with many interesting things to see along the way. It is mostly a dirt trail, but some parts are concrete with graffiti on it, which I think ads to the character of the place. It’s pretty different, and for that I love going down that way. The view is also amazing once you reach the end.

There are about a million different trails you can take that will lead you to a million different, unique, and beautiful places. My advice: don’t go where everyone else gathers to watch the sunset. There are so many nooks, crannies, and gaps in the rocks that lead to perfect U-shaped seats and gorgeous outlooks for sunset viewing. It’s easy to find a private spot to hang your legs over and watch the vast ocean, with tiny surfers down below. When sunset comes, you’ll be glad to have a place away from the masses to contemplate on your own, or with a friend.  If you want to take someone on a date, this place is perfect. Your best bet is to get there an hour or so before sunset, so you have time to explore, find the perfect spot, and wait to see the reason “Sunset Cliffs” got its name: different cloud patterns, colors, and rays of sunlight leaking through the clouds. There are so many different types of cloud, too: heavenly castles astonishing and high, the ends streaking across the seascape in wisps, or in a thousand little puffballs. If I came here every day to see this wonderful spectacle over the ocean, I couldn’t and wouldn’t ever take it for granted. It will always be unique, and just as stunning as ever. That’s the thing about Sunset Cliffs, it never gets old.

Parking tips: Go down Sunset Cliffs Blvd. until you reach the end, and turn left onto Ladera Drive. Take the next right onto a dirt/paved road and you will reach a parking lot. Park here, and follow the trails.  The yellow line on the map shows the way from Sunset Cliffs Blvd to the parking lot.

• Driving Directions from Old Town Inn (4444 Pacific Hwy 92110) to

              Ladera St. (Sunset Cliffs Parking Lot), San Diego, CA 92107:

1. Head south on Pacific Hwy toward Smith St
2. Make a U-turn at Smith St
3. Turn left onto Sea World Dr
4. Slight left to stay on Sea World Dr
5. Continue onto Sunset Cliffs Blvd
6. Slight right to stay on Sunset Cliffs Blvd
7. Continue onto Ladera St (left)
8. Next right into parking lot

Map #1 shows the way from Sunset Cliffs Blvd to the parking lot.

Map #2 is a close up of the parking lot and a few of the many trails to take from there.

It’s much easier to do this in a tropical setting; say, a Caribbean setting. If you’re cold and hungry, the best places to get that tropical vibe would be two of San Diego’s best restaurants of the Caribbean, Cuban restaurant Andre’s and Jamaican restaurant Island Spice. Yes, these places have everything you need to get away from winter for a while, and eat something delicious while you’re at it.

These restaurants have two things in common that don’t have to do with the food, and that would be their hole-in-the-wall-ness, and their locations. These two great restaurants are most likely passed over by the usual tourist because they are not in your typical, touristy neighborhoods. So, if you are getting tired of the usual, tourist-packed, crowded side of San Diego, these two places will refresh you.

Now, let’s talk food. Both Andre’s and Island Spice have dishes that are fabulously delicious, juicy, and brimming with flavor. The food has that clear-your-plate-even-though-you-were-full-twenty-minutes-ago quality to it. You know what I mean.

Andre’s

This family owned and operated Cuban restaurant and Latin Market was established in 1983, and has been a local favorite ever since. Andre’s is never too crowded, with a large, comfortable dining area. The food is consistently good, and though I’m not an expert, it seems authentic. The service is hospitable, but be prepared to wait a bit. Remember, you’re on island time! The food is definitely worth the wait, and Andre’s is a nice place to sit and relax with friends or on a date. With the tropical ambiance, black and white pictures of Cuba on the wall, and the humble simplicity of the place, it’s easy to forget the hustle of the holiday season and let yourself drift away to Cuba. The food helps too. Tender and flavorful beef and chicken, enhanced with rich sauces simmered with garlic, onions, and different spices; delicious seafood entrees, made with authentic Caribbean ingredients and original recipes. Eating at Andre’s is reminiscent of delicious home cooking that can only be experienced every once and a while, like when you’re at a friend’s grandmothers house or visiting a far away family member, you can tell it was cooked with care; with a loving respect for the place or person that the recipe came from.
Try:
• the Weekday Specials (a new special every day of the week)
• Arroz con Pollo/Picadillo
• Plantanos maderas (plantains)
• Ropa Vieja (shredded beef dish)

Island Spice

Walk into Island Spice and get transported instantly to an especially beautiful island way of life. You can see palm trees and tropical plants as you walk in. The ocean and the island of Jamaica are painted in beautiful murals on the walls. The smell of fried plantains and spices fill your nostrils, and you already feel warmer. An island vibe takes over as you walk to the bamboo counter and say hello to the friendly staff, and order your meal. Sit down and look at hanging Jamaican flags; cute placemats with a map of Jamaica let your eyes do the travelling as you wait for your meal. It comes faster than you expect. You notice the tenderness of the meat as it falls off the bone, and the deep, velvety sauces rich with spices and island flavors. Your giant portion includes rice, beans, mixed veggies, and delicious plantains. You sit back; enjoy your meal and the simple pleasures of life, all at an island pace. There’s no hurry. Your troubles and thoughts of the cold winter outside disappear with every bite, and you leisurely pass the time, enjoying the little things and laughing with friends, each of you escaping into your own island dream.
Try:
• Jerk Chicken
• Fried plantains
• BBQ Chicken
• Curry Chicken
• Oxtail
• Bottled Jamaican Sodas (especially guava)

Information                                              

Andre’s
Address: 1235 Morena Blvd. San Diego CA, 92110
Phone: (619) 275- 4114
Hours of Operation: Monday through Thursday – 11:00am – 8:30pm
Friday & Saturday – 11:00am – 9:00pm
Sunday – 11:00am – 5:00pm

Island Spice
Address: 2820 Market St. San Diego, CA 92102(between 28th and 29th)
Phone: (619) 702 – 9309
Hours of Operation: Monday through Saturday – 9:30am – 8:00pm
Sunday: 9:30am – 6:00pm

Delivery Hours: Sunday – 10am – 5pm
Monday through Saturday – 10am – 6:30pm

Behind the scenes is the extremely talented Su Mei Yu, whose insanely delicious recipes have won numerous awards. Very rarely behind the scenes, however, Su Mei Yu is often on the front lines, helping prepare her famous recipes and talking with customers. It is this caring atmosphere (along with excellent entrees) that will keep you coming back for more.

Believe the Hype

As San Diego’s first authentic Thai restaurant, Saffron has been filling the tummies of San Diegans since 1985. This more than tasty eatery quickly became a favorite for San Diego and soon had the city’s attention with its many awards. Saffron has won USA Today restaurant polls, numerous silver fork awards from San Diego Home and Garden Magazine, who also named Su Mei Yu the “Restaurateur of the Year.” Saffron also earns the award of “Best Takeout” every year in San Diego Magazine.

The Food

• If you love spicy food, this is definitely the place for you. Anything can be ordered spicy, or extra spicy, or even spicier (up to five peppers, I believe). If spicy isn’t your thing, there are more than enough flavorful, unique dishes that don’t make your eyes water (and anything can be ordered not-spicy).
• The sauces accompanying your meal are made from scratch and fresh every day.
• The menu specializes in saffron marinated chicken prepared using traditional Thai methods.
• The menu is designed seasonally, using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
• Saffron uses only the freshest ingredients, and everything is prepared when you order it.
• All of the above makes for some healthy, tasty dishes – no trans fats included!
• Did I mention it’s affordable? Most dishes are under $10.

Try This:

• Spicy Drunken Noodles
• Pad See Ew
• Chicken Sate with Peanut Sauce
• Thai Iced Tea

Be green: bring your own clean and proper implements or takeout container and receive 10% off your purchase!

From secret recipes to build-your-own burgers to the most amazing chocolate malt in San Diego, here are some of the best burger joints in town. So how could this story possibly get any better? Well lucky us, it can! These delectable burger joints just so happen to be right on the beach.

WARNING: May cause you to drool all over your keyboard.

Ocean Beach

Hodad’s – Started in 1969, this classic burger joint has been recognized by CNN as one of the top 5 in the country (The only west coast burger joint on the list), not to mention its appearance on various TV shows, including “Diners, Drive Ins, and Dives” with Guy Fieri.
Feel free to walk in right off the beach, as Hodad’s encourages with their “no shoes, no shirt, no problem” policy. This unique place offers a delightfully simple menu, including single hamburgers and cheeseburgers, doubles, and of course the bacon burgers. To go with your burger, I suggest the onion rings, they’re huge! I didn’t know onions that big existed, but they are delicious. If you have room, don’t forget their famous chocolate malts, probably the best chocolate malt I have ever tasted. And if that’s not enough, you might as well get the “All you can eat” for $100.25 (per person).
The menu is the only thing about Hodad’s that is relatively simple. After all, the place is decorated with hundreds and hundreds of funny personalized license plates from all over the country. Believe me, when you get a glimpse of your burger, you’ll soon realize that there is nothing simple about getting that into your mouth, let alone your stomach. No, everything at Hodad’s seems to come in one size: giant. But don’t let the size fool you, once you do get that huge burger down, you’ll know what all the fuss is about: FRESHNESS. Fresh tomatoes, fresh greens, fresh onions, fresh potatoes, fresh patties…need I say more? Hodad’s takes all of this and combines it to make one of the best burgers in America.

Pacific Beach

Five Guys – Feel like eating a burger of your own design, yet don’t feel like making it yourself? Check out Five Guys. Another simple menu, including, but definitely not limited to, cheeseburgers, hamburgers, and bacon burgers. The really cool thing about this place is the fact that you can choose from a large array of toppings, and they’re free, even if you want them all! The fries are healthy, cooked in pure, no cholesterol peanut oil, and they even have a Cajun version, which I would definitely recommend. Finally, for the peanut lover, Five Guys sells peanuts in bulk, and the place is literally overflowing with them.

Cass St. – Last, but definitely not least, is Cass St. Bar and Grill. For adults only, Cass St. has been a longtime favorite of the locals. Not only do they serve the best burgers in PB, (TRY the Bleu Cheese Burger, it will blow your mind), they also have an array of other items, including an amazing oriental chicken salad, and a delicious steak sandwich. Also, a wide selection of good beer, perfect after a hot day at the beach.

• For Lunch: The Gourmet Bagger ~ For a delectable sandwich, the Gourmet Bagger is the place to be.
• For Dinner: Pizza Bella ~ Not your average Italian restaurant; this place is something special.

The Gourmet Bagger: Started in 1990, this family owned business has been putting smiles on the faces of sandwich lovers for years. With delicious creations like the Turkey Grinder (my favorite), Chipotle Chicken, and the Killer Klub, a trip to the Gourmet Bagger will never be a disappointment. And I haven’t even told you about the Bagger Cheesesteak yet, it’s their signature sandy. So what makes these sandwiches so much more delicious than others? Not only are the contents of the sandwich fresh and meticulously prepared, the rolls that they are prepared on are the best I’ve had. The goodness does not stop at the sandwich, however. The Gourmet Bagger keeps it real with yummy salads, a great drink assortment, and chips to go with, or on, your sandwich. But I haven’t even gotten to the best part. Included every time with your sandwich is a freshly baked chocolate chip surprise. MmmMmm. A perfect finish to a great meal. And to top it all off, everything is served in the quintessential brown paper lunch bag. Perhaps to remind you, (if your school lunches were anything like mine) to THANK GOD that you are no longer eating dad’s warm bologna sandwiches that carry a hint of banana from being in your backpack for so long.
• Location: 3357 Rosecrans St.
• Phone: 619-523-0590
• Hours: M-F 10:30-7
                 Sat 10:30-4
                 Sun 11-3

Pizza Bella: “The Best Kept Secret in Old Town” has been serving the neighborhood for more than 40 years. If you love good Italian food, (who doesn’t!) you will love this place. Pizza Bella offers indoor and outdoor dining, a very kind and helpful staff, and awards including, but not limited to: The Best Pizza in America (on ABC’s nationally televised Mike and Maty show) and, (“…somewhat of a Mecca for serious pizza aficionados”), Six National Write Ups by the San Diego Union Tribune. Catering and delivery are also an option.

• Try: the Spicy Bow Tie Pasta
• Location: 2707 Congress St.
• Phone: 619-692-4333