Our Blog

Only Fresh News

Category Archives: Restaurant Reviews

Featured Restaurant & Chef: Crow Bar and Kitchen, Chef Scott Brandon

By | Restaurant Reviews | 724 Comments

crowbar_logoThe Crow Bar is called a Gastropub, which is a British term for a public house which specializes in high-quality food, definitely above the basic “pub grub”. The name is a combination of pub and gastronomy and was coined in 1991 when David Eyre and Mike Belben opened a pub called ‘The Eagle’ in London. The Crow Bar has a relaxing yet fun atmosphere, serving upscale, gourmet cuisine. Located in Corona Del Mar, a beautiful and quaint part of Newport Beach, The Crow Bar is the first Gastropub in the OC. It has a wonderful assortment of international brews and a very selective wine-by-the-glass menu. Named “Best New OC restaurant” by OC Weekly Magazine, in 2008. You can’t go wrong with the classic crow burger, consisting of ciabatta, tallegio & gorgonzola, roasted tomato marmalade, and rocket arugula. And the sausage-covered deep-fried Scotch Quail Eggs served with coarse brown mustard is truly magnificent. Grilled Cheese, Pizzas and Burgers are transformed into exceptional gourmet meals.

crowbar011 menu_dining-room-1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Executive Chef Scott Brandon, makes visiting the Crow Bar a remarkable experience. From his charming personality to his truly innovative beautifully garnished dishes. The Brandon mantra: “Simplicity and quality go a long way. Let the food speak for itself.  Don’t get twisted and you’ll be alright’.  These are the words he lives by. Brandon is a James Beard recognized chef who began in the restaurant business as a dishwasher at the age of 14. Many years of experience, learning and traveling has made Brandon one of Southern California’s young, bright stars and has helped to give the Crow Bar its much deserved success.

Delightful Dining! The Capri Blu Experience

By | MicroGreens, PetiteGreens, Restaurant Reviews | 1,449 Comments

Petite Tangerine Lace™, Scallops, Summer Veggies, Picatta Sauce, Cortani Pasta, Chef James MontejanoPetite Tangerine Lace™

At Capri Blu, executive Chef James Montejano uses fresh ingredients, unique garnishes, and skillful techniques to truly create works of art. The lovely compositions of the dishes excite and entice diners. My family and I came to Capri Blu for lunch,  and we had a very enjoyable experience. I loved the feel of the place, it has an extremely nice ambiance. It is a fine dining restaurant but not overly fancy or pricey, we felt very comfortable there, but still felt like we were in a nice place. The hostess was very welcoming and the waiter was extremely friendly and attentive. Fantastic service!

 

 

 

 

Micro Tangerine Lace™, Lobster Ratatouille, Lemon Basil Fettucini, Port Wine Sauce, Chef James MontejanoMicro Tangerine Lace™

We had heirloom tomato salads, scallops, lobster and pasta. The fresh fish was mouthwatering and cooked to perfection. These flavorful dishes looked beautiful, and the presentations were enhanced by attractiveMicroGreens from Fresh Origins Farm. James is not only a very talented chef, but also really friendly and personable. He came out of the kitchen to talk to us and other customers to make sure we were enjoying our experience there. He definitely cares about his diners and the food that he serves. We were also very fortunate that he let us have a  small food photoshoot, since they use our products. I highly recommend this place!!

 

 

 

 

 

Petite Stevia™

 

Petite Stevia™, 3 Way, Pistachio Ice Cream Sandwich, Peppered Strawberries with Balsamic and Petite Stevia™, Petite Stevia™ Coconut Milkshake, Chef James Montejano

The wine is also fantastic! There are over 200 wines that have been carefully selected from distinguished wineries from around the world that find their place in Capri Blu’s wine cellar. From Spanish to Italian, from South American to Australian, there will be a perfect wine for you, that will pair fantastically with the beautiful flavorful dishes.

 

 

 

 

 

Capri Blu Italian Bistro & Wine Bar
10436 Craftsman Way – San Diego, CA 92127
4S Commons Town Center
858.673.5100 f: 858.673.5119

www.capri-blu.com

OPEN DAILY
LUNCH Mon-Sat 11am-2:30pm
DINNER Sun-Wed 5pm-9pm
Thur-Sat 5pm-11pm
BRUNCH Sat, Sun 10:30am-2:30pm