mmm-yoso!!!

Long Story Short - A Quick Look

Before we left on our trip, the Missus wanted a nice dinner in the North Park area, "something new". We'd recently had a not so satisfying dinner in the area and with prices these days, well, we'd rather not spend $19 for a single scallop appetizer. While doing a bit of searching, I found that the wine bar Little Thief had closed and was replaced by a restaurant and wine bar called Long Story Short. I enjoyed the backstory of the chefs a husband and wife team. You can read about that here. The restaurant was only open from 4pm to 10pm Tuesdays to Saturdays and the menu was ever changing, based on what could be sourced locally, something that is amazing when it works out, but can be disappointing when it doesn't.

I made reservations for Tuesday at the 5pm slot and we headed on over.

The place was pretty quiet when we arrived.

Our Server was a very friendly woman and we decided to have seat outside since it was such a nice day.

We weren't too hungry and ordered two "hot" dishes and a pasta.

First to arrive was the Uni "French Toast" ($30). 

Well, this is San Diego Uni, so while I was worried we'd be getting one little piece of Uni on a slice of micro toast, we still had to try it. Luckily, it was not that. The uni melted in your mouth with that delicate lightly briny-savory-sweetness; the brioche had a nice butteriness but wasn't overly sweet. There was just a touch of avocado which really made no difference. The shoyu added some saltiness to things. As for the koji-maitake miso; well, the best thing I can say is that it didn't interfere with the clean, yet decadent textures and flavors of the uni and brioche. This was by far our favorite dish of the meal.

Based on the other dishes in the meal; I ordered some bread ($9) and butter. Yes, they charge you nine bucks for bread here.

Especially since it was "Hoja Santa" Sourdough. You know the Missus and Her love for Hoya Santa, right? Unfortunately, the hoya santa was placed on the crust of the bread and we really couldn't make out the wonderful anise-minty-grassy tones of hoya santa we love. Also, it just seems that the flavor of Hoya Santa here is not as assertive as what we'd had in Oaxaca. We also didn't care much for the "street-corn" butter. The bread itself proved to be an adequate vehicle for dipping though.

Next to arrive was the Roasted Winter Squash ($22).

The Missus loves Kabocha which was in this dish; She loves mushrooms and this featured Maitake and Oyster mushrooms. Unfortunately, the sum of the parts just didn't go together well. The sweetness of the kabocha was overly heightened which nullified the earthy tones of the mushrooms. A bit too much sour and sweet for us. The brown butter was also a bit much. Our least favorite dish of the evening.

The last item up was the Chino Farms Corn and Ricotta Agnolotti ($29). 

I would usually hesitate in ordering a pasta dish with corn in the fear it would be too sweet. But this dish included Huitlacoche another one of our favorite ingredients. The actual dough for the pasta was a bit on thick side and chewy, but the balance of sweet and salty was nicely balanced. The sauces weren't too heavy. The aleppo pepper was barely detectible in the dish. Still, the sauce was quite nice with the bread.

The Missus enjoyed the two glasses of wine She had with Her meal. The timing was kind of uneven as it was almost a 30 minute wait between the Kabocha dish and the pasta, though the folks working were quite friendly. We did enjoy the uni, so perhaps we'll return. It's totally up to the Missus if we will. I'm hoping they do well; heck two of the places we visited less than a year-and-half ago; Verbena Kitchen and Hoxton Manor have already closed. 

Whoa, I just noticed that I'm over 700 words for a single visit post with 3 dishes! I guess I made what should have been a "short story long" in the case of "Long Story Short"!

Long Story Short
3017 University Ave.
San Diego, CA 92104
Current Hours:
Tues - Sat 4pm - 10pm
Closed Sunday and Monday

Test Kitchen Eatery and Workspace (Grantville)

mmm-yoso!!! is a food blog.  Kirk is on vacation with His Missus and Cathy is back to writing a few more posts.  

So, with my job, I usually meet clients at their home or place of business (how I find some interesting places to eat).   Had to go to the Post Office one day while in the Grantville area of San Diego and while driving through the Office Park, saw this feather flag and made a mental note to bring The Mister with me for lunch.

 It turns out that this establishment is a recipe testing, preparation and catering kitchen to the family of New Zealand inspired restaurants in San Diego: Bareback Grill, Queenstown Public House, Dunedin North Park, Raglan Public House and Queenstown Bistro...none of which Kirk or I have visited (yet)

 Walk in and there's the menu on the wall in front of you.  Turn to the left, meet Mack, order, pay and find a seat.   

 I noticed this "Mackstar" beverage ($2) described on the wall and decided to try it-an excellent blend of English Black tea and fresh (sweetened) lemonade.  The liquids are different densities so when delivered to the table, we were able to try the excellent black tea separately from the lemonade; each is good on its own and when stirred, the combination is very nice-could still taste the tea.

 The "Soup and Sammie" ($13) was my choice.  Tomato basil soup with pine nuts and herbs, topped with sour cream-thick with chunks of tomato,so  fresh, delightful.  The bowl is low and deceptive.  There is plenty.  

 Two types of cheese on toasted sourdough with mayonnaise, avocado, lettuce and tomato.  Excellent.

 The Cobb Chop salad ($12.50) was really good; fresh (flavorful; I've been buying some bitter lettuces lately) Romaine topped with warm grilled herby chicken breast, chopped bacon, avocado, tomato, hard boiled egg and Blue cheese chunks.
 The salad was served with fresh made Caesar dressing (delightful, non-burning garlic) or we could have tried the Pepper Ranch (next time). 

There were plenty of call-in/pick up orders happening.  The people who work in the area are really fortunate.  A great place. 

Test Kitchen Eatery and Workspace 4651 Mission Gorge Place San Diego 92120 (619) 955-6844 Open 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Mon-Fri Closed Sat-Sun Website

 

2024 Rose Parade Road Test #5, Breakfast at Bob's Burgers (La Puente)

mmm-yoso!!! is primarily a food blog with sometimes interesting stories about how the food was acquired.  Cathy and Her Mister took a short road trip on Saturday and here's that post. 

Link to 2024 Float Road Test #1

Link to 2024 Road Test #2

Link to 2024 Road Test #3

Link to Road Test #4

On the last Saturday in October, we woke at 4, left home at 5 and after a quick stop at Cream Pan in Tustin, arrived at Phoenix Decorating Company in Irwindale, just in time to see three floats for the 2024 Tournament of Roses Rose Parade being tested for mechanics and maneuverability.

 "Sounds of Success". presented by Coding for Veterans, a Canadian based organization.  The H60 and P35 aircraft are much more recognizable now that the rebar outline is covered.  This symmetric float (same on the camera and off camera sides) looks like it will have giant screens in the center.  The 'keyboards' under the screens are surreal. 

 Unsure about this float, but the 'spotter' in front is easy to see, as is the 'driver' near the back (with the ToR safety evaluator seated next to him). You can see the slot where the Spotter looks out in the above float photo. 
 Also unknown is this float, with an intricate 'skeleton' which may have some interesting mechanics attached.

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

The road testing was short, the weather was windy and chilly and The Mister and I were not very hungry yet.  We did drive to Porto's and got a few seasonal bakery items and a loaf of cranberry walnut bread (spent less than $11!) and started driving around, looking for 'someplace new to us' for breakfast.

 Well.  Of course we stopped. 

 The walls and ceiling are covered with nostalgia.  After ordering and paying, we got our beverages and found a nice, clean table.  Our food was brought to us.  The breakfast menu is pretty simple.  The complete menu at the Drive Thru has me wanting to return.

 Realizing I haven't had a breakfast sandwich in a very long time, I jumped at the chance to try a sausage breakfast sandwich on rye ($8.99).  flat omelet style eggs on toasted, thick slices of rye with four skin-on breakfast sausages, lettuce, tomato and mayonnaise...just a wonderful sandwich.

 The Breakfast plate with a hamburger patty, three eggs (over easy) and real hash browns ($9.99) was The Mister's choice.  Oh, we both really appreciate the char broiling of a patty and the seasoned grill here produces a wonderful flavored burger..  The eggs were perfectly over easy and the soft boiled potatoes, crisp fried on a flat top grill were just wonderful.  Of course The Mister also chose rye toast-an excellent bread, filled with rye seeds.

Bob's Burgers 14952 Valley Blvd. La Puente, CA 91746 (626) 961-2523 Open Fri-Wed 7 a.m.- 9:45 p.m. Closed Thursday  Website

 What caught my eye, on the counter were these Sampuru- fake food models.  But it's not Japanese food  (although apparently the teriyaki chicken and beef on the menu are very popular items).  I've never seen Mexican or American breakfasts, much less burgers and French fries done in this wax style of advertising.  Then again, look at the wall behind the fake food displays... kanji?

 

Perry's Cafe (Old Town)

Thank you for stopping by to read mmm-yoso!!!, a food blog.  Today's post is being written by Cathy while Kirk enjoys some time off with His Missus.  

I think it's because I miss having fish as my breakfast protein, which started years ago at Smokey's (which unfortunately closed last month) and eventually was easily satisfied when I discovered fish on the breakfast menu at the El Cajon location of Perry's, which has, sadly, also closed.  Kirk first posted about this location of Perry's in 2007.

 The Mister and I made the trek West, to Old Town, a few months ago, so that I could have the breakfast I was craving and He could fulfill His cravings.


 His order was F10- the Italian sausage frittata ($15.99).  A simple baked (in cast iron; thicker than an omelet) egg dish of Italian sausage, tomatoes and mixed cheese.  A nice, mild sausage, fresh tomatoes and plenty of cheese and eggs...filling and tasty.
 Instead of toast, He chose biscuits and gravy- house made, fluffy inside with a crisp crust covered by a creamy, breakfast sausage filled gravy.
 Also part of the meal were hash browns.  Nice and crisp.

 Here's my Fish and egg meal ($16.99)-cod fish, lightly floured and pan fried, two (properly) poached eggs and crisp Home fries. The fish was served with the appropriate condiments of tartar sauce and lemon.  
 Instead of bread, I chose the muffin of the day (blueberry).  It's light and cake-like and filled with fresh, plump blueberries.

So happy this location made it through Covid-19.

Perry's Cafe 4610 Pacific Highway San Diego 92110 (619) 291-7121 Open daily 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Website

The Money Pit (San Marcos)

Hey!  Here you are, reading mmm-yoso!!!, a blog about food.  Typepad must be up and working!  In any case, Cathy is writing today while Kirk is avoiding computers as much as He can. 

I had heard of The Money Pit, but hadn't been this far North in a while.  Then one day, The Mister and I were in the area.   The Money Pit has Yelp reviews from more than 14 years ago, so it has been around a while and made it through Covid.

This building had been a bank in its original construction and the exterior architecture, Drive Through lane as well as the interior footprint are essentially the same. 

Then again, the interior decor is unique and focused on types of 'money'.

 Walk up, order and pay.  You are given a number and find a seat. 
Here is a close up of the menu.

 "The Mess" ($9.10) Eggs, cheese, hash browns, bell pepper, onion, ham, bacon, sausage and toast. Everything in every bite. A lot of food, a lot of flavor, a lot of texture.  Should be enough for anyone.

 Chili Cheese omelette ($8.90) Three eggs filled with house made chili (no beans) and topped with a slice of American cheese.  A slab of crispy hash browns and toast.  Again a lot of food.  A bowl of chili will be a nice meal when the weather cools down. 

We came back for lunch.  Of course
 We decided to share a side and since it was our first time, a Combo Plate ($6) was ordered.  Fries (not too many; a nice surprise), onion rings (whole onion, not diced), zucchini fingers and mushrooms.  This large platter was served with two large cups of house made Ranch (you can order more for 50¢). Excellent, fresh, proper fry (even the potatoes were nice and crisp) and leftovers.
 A "3 x 3" burger ($6.60) was one order.  Three charred beefy patties, three slices of cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickle and onion on a toasted bun.   Excellent, fresh and, of course, large.
 The Chicken Breast Sandwich ($7.75) was a great choice.  Served on a lightly toasted Squaw Roll, the grilled chicken breast has a slight char and is moist and flavorful. Lettuce and tomato is all that was needed to compliment this sandwich. 
 We decided to share a banana milkshake ($4.50) and it was great! 

Definitely worth return visits.

The Money Pit 1360 East Mission Road San Marcos 92069  Open daily 7 a.m.  Closes 11 p.m. Friday, 9 p.m. Sunday, 10 p.m. the other days 
 A remnant from the vault is now part of the decor.

Roadtrip - A Morning Walk in Prescott, Wild Iris Coffee, Montezuma Castle National Monument, and Lunch at the Turquoise Room (Winslow) Again

**** Not a whole lot of food in this one. But if you'd like to see more of Prescott and Montezuma Castle National Monument read on.....

After a really nice night of sleep at the Motor Lodge, I woke early and decided to take a stroll to get the Missus some coffee. Prescott is located at 5,400 feet altitude and it was quite cool on a bright May morning.

Prescott is also known for it's Victorian style homes. Like this one.

Which brought a smile to my face as I recalled the wonderful self guided Architectural walking tour we took in Pacific Grove.

I headed up South Montezuma Street and the Yavapai County Courthouse.

Though this time I didn't have to make a turn down West Goodwin. Instead, I kept walking North......

And past the area known as Whiskey Row, a wild-west looking collection of bars and restaurants.

Established in the 1870's this row of saloons suffered thru three fires in 1877, 1883, and a devastating fire 1900. Each time it was was rebuilt, with more businesses than before.

None of which is more famous than The Palace Saloon.

You might recognize the names of some of the "toughest" customers of the saloon.

Shades of the Iron Door Saloon! Too bad we didn't have a chance to visit, perhaps next time?

I took a turn and then made another left and found the coffee spot I was looking for.

   Really friendly folks, a nice selection. I got the Missus a French Press and I got an Americano before we hit the road.

Wild Iris Coffee House
124 South Granite St. Suite E
Prescott, AZ 86303

As I walked back to the Motor Lodge I stopped at the restaurant I'd tried to get reservations at but was unable to. And found out the reason why.

Ouch!

I also started noticing other signs and art along the way.

And after quickly packing and checking out we were off. I had picked Prescott over Sedona and Flagstaff on this road trip to make a stop at Montezuma Castle National Monument. We arrived at around 930 and was surprised to see the place was quite busy...on a weekday!

Some of the best preserved dwellings of the Sinagua people are to be found here.

There's an easy paved loop walkway around the park.

You'll see many ruins of dwellings. Though unlike, say Cliff Palace in Mesa Verde, you can't walk among the ruins. The largest complex, called "Castle A" is an impressive and large structure of over 40 rooms.

Just to imagine what life was like.

And as we were leaving we saw this. Which made us smile wistfully....

Sammy would have loved being a "Bark Ranger".....

I had planned things so that we could make a lunch stop at a favorite of ours.

Yep, we were back at the La Posada, at the Turquoise Room for lunch.

We had the same things as on our previous lunch visit and it was just as good, so I'm not going to bore you with that. If you're interested, you can read my post on that visit.

Turquoise Room (in the La Posada Hotel)
303 E 2nd St.
Winslow, AZ 86047

A nice light lunch and we were off to our next stop. Albuquerque!

Thanks for stopping by!

Roadtrip - El Gato Azul, Prescott, Arizona

Right after our last trips to France, "Home", Taiwan, and before out latest trip to CDMX and Guadalajara.....whew, am I behind on my travel posts or what? We decided to revisit Santa Fe and a couple of other places. One of the towns I always wanted to visit is Prescott. You know me a oddball history, right? Turns out that Prescott was twice the Capital of Arizona; first between 1864 to 1867 and then from 1877 to 1899. Much of the reason was due to the prosperous mining of gold and silver in the area. Doc Holliday, Wyatt Earp, and Virgil Earp were residents of Prescott (though Wyatt Earp was also a San Diego resident for a while). Anyway, I thought a stop in Prescott on the way to Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Taos might be a fun stop.

I got our accommodations set at the Motor Lodge which was a few blocks from the main square of Prescott and I'm glad we stayed here. Each unit was sort of a vintage "boutique" motel unit.

We loved the patio area and it was a one bedroom unit with a small kitchen; which we didn't use, but appreciated. The place was very comfortable!

And one of my favorite posters ever!

The staff was really friendly and nice as well.

The Motor Lodge
503 South Montezuma St.
Prescott, AZ 86303

After taking a nice break, we headed off to our dinner destination. The main street in Prescott is South Montezuma Street and it heads past the main square, Courthouse Plaza where the impressive Yavapai County Courthouse is located.

We took a turn on West Goodwin Street, right at the beginning of Prescott's Whiskey Row, which I would quickly check out the next morning. A couple of blocks down was our destination. El Gato Azul. We were about 15 minutes early for our 530 reservation and there was a line outside the restaurant! We got a table outside on the patio area. Man, the place was packed! It seems like folks eat early in Prescott. The hostess seemed a bit stressed and was short with folks but the rest of the staff was very friendly and we started with some cocktails.

The menu was an "interesting" fusion of Spanish-Mexican-European-you name it, fusion-tapas like dishes.

We placed our order and the first to arrive was the "Mediterranean Nachos" ($10).

This would end up being our favorite dish of the night. The combination of briney Kalamata Olives, pungent pickled Garlic, Milky Mozzarella, meaty artichoke hearts, and pickled onions on crisp tortilla chips was quite refreshing. The Chimichurri was mild, but that was probably for the best as it let all the ingredients "sing".

Next up was the Chorizo Hash ($9).

The Yukon Gold potatoes were nice and sweet, but the chorizo was very mild in flavor, lacking spice and herbaceous smokiness that we enjoy in a good chorizo. Not sure about the overly chewy baguette either and the so called "pico de gallo" didn't add much to the dish. In fact, we asked if there was hot sauce available and two bottles were provided.

Both were quite tasty; but for us the habanero hot sauce was spicy-acidic, with a nice smoky-fruitiness we enjoyed. This was our "crutch" for the rest of the meal.

Interesting thing to note. The place was packed with folks waiting in line when we arrive at 515. By 6pm it was starting to empty out!

Next up were Green Chili Carnitas ($9). Which were basically pseudo carnitas tacos.

The flour tortillas were too thick, almost like a pseudo pita of sorts. The carnitas were slightly porky, but needed more salt and seasoning. Plus the meat to cabbage/tortilla ratio was skewed in favor of the latter. We must have used half the bottle of hot sauce on this.

The last item to arrive was the "Guacamole Pizza" ($11), which should probably be called a overly-cheesed pita.

The pita was decently crisp, though it said cumin fried pita on the menu, it could have used a larger dose of cumin. Not enough guacamole for our taste and this definitely needed more salt as well.

The meal started quite well, and the staff, other than the surly hostess were so nice. We loved the vibe and the meal started well. Good thing we had those bottles of hot sauce as they saved the meal.

Here's a photo of the very pretty front of the restaurant I took the next morning.

El Gato Azul
316 West Goodwin St.
Prescott, AZ 86301

There was a silver lining to this visit though. From our seats on the patio, we noticed this stream and a little path along it.

As we left the restaurant, we noticed stairs headed down to the trail along the creek.

Apparently this is Granite Creek. And according to the City's website, the area along what is called the Granite Creek Corridor is being "protected and enhanced" to ensure its sustainability.

We strolled Northward. It was a pleasant walk.

Until the point the creek was emerging from under West Willis Street. We then got back to street level and strolled back to our accommodations.

While we didn't see too many folks out and about; those we saw would greet us with a smile and "hello".

And there seemed to be a sense of humor present as well.

Yes, Prescott, Arizona!

Thanks for stopping by!

H Brothers (Escondido)

Thanks for stopping to read mmm-yoso!!! which is being written by Cathy today. 

Recently, The Mister and I were in downtown Escondido to run some errands.  We parked at one of the free parking lots just behind buildings on East Grand (just off of East 2nd Avenue) and started walking.  We knew there would be someplace to eat.

 The red brick building with the black awning, next to LLL Reptile on East Grand between North Kalmia and North Juniper.  It's pretty easy to spot.   
 There is plenty of indoor seating as well as quite a few outdoor tables.

Step inside and the menu is on the wall.  There are paper menus also.  Order, pay and your food will be brought to your table.
 The first item that caught our eyes, top left-Original Poutine ($8.99).  Fresh cut fries, brown gravy, cheese curds.  We had to.  The fries were skin on, definitely made here.  Not too crisp, but hot and thoroughly cooked, covered with the not-salty brown gravy and cheese curds, which melted in the heat of the fries.  The cheese was plentiful and stretchy and a really great part of each bite.  There were leftovers which reheated quite well in the fry pan at home.  
 Pretty much the center of the menu board, the Cuban Torta ($16.99) wa our agreed choice.  A toasted Torta roll slathered with mayonnaise, filled with adobada, pulled pork, ham, provolone, a fried egg, pineapple, and pickled jalapeño.`
 You can see it all here.  Each meat (plenty of meat in this sandwich) was fresh and offered a discernible variety of flavors.  Then there were textures-the egg was runny, adding a richness and the sweet slice of lightly crisp pineapple was very complimentary to all of the porky goodness.  Even the light crunch, slight saltiness and light heat of the pickled jalapeño helped bring it all together with each bite.  We each had leftovers of our respective halves.
   Looking over to the bottom right of the menu-Beignets ($7.99).  Oh yes, this would be a dessert day.  We were asked if we wanted the deep fried dough to come out with our meal or would we like to wait, since everything is made to order here.  We said we were not in a hurry and later were asked if they should start on the dessert.  

The hot fried dough pockets arrived covered in powdered sugar and accompanied by three sauces: chocolate, blueberry and raspberry.   The beignet alone had great flavor, a crunchy exterior, fluffy interior and I thought needed no additions...then I dipped a corner.  The sauces were wonderful!  Fried dough became a spectacular dessert and this was a really nice treat.  There were no leftovers to take home.

Everything is made here, daily.  Quality North American comfort food.  We will return.


H Brothers 212 East Grand Escondido 92025 Open Tues-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m. (442) 999-5542  Website Closed Sun-Mon

 

Big Cheech's (Chicken, Waffles and Sliders)(Scripps Ranch)

mmm-yoso!!! is back to being written by Cathy, while Kirk goes back to doing other things. 

As we were leaving Todo Sushi in April, I saw cars waiting at a (new location to me) Starbucks drive through and this building, just on the opposite side of Carroll Canyon.  We drove in, but it wasn't yet open for business.  There were some vinyl graphics of breakfast and lunch sliders on the front windows and doors. We recently were back in the area and stopped in. 
 I did not get a photo of the menu, but this link to the online ordering will show you the current offerings and prices. (Breakfast is mentioned on the website as being available from 7-11 a.m., but the restaurant opens at 10 and no breakfast sliders can be ordered from the online menu)
 Of course we had to try a combo: Two chicken tenders, waffle, fries and a drink ($13.99).

Didn't want to try any 'spicy' flavor chicken nor grilled chicken.  The chicken tenders were quite large and moist with a pleasant, lightly crisp, lightly flavored breading (it wasn't a batter that stayed adhered to the chicken).  The fries were very thin and therefore crisp; a good and different fry.  The waffle was made with a flavored batter..cinnamon-vanilla..but it was just a hint of flavor.  Crisp exterior and fluffy interior.  The combination of flavors and textures was 'proper'.  I was curious about the falafel slider ($4.99)
 A fresh made falafel patty with tahini, lettuce, tomato and a pickle on a toasted eggy bun.  I really liked this. 

 We also ordered a House Salad ($6.99).  Mixed greens, cheese, onion, grape tomatoes and cucumbers.  We asked for ranch dressing, which was standard and good.

So far, we like the food here.  A good place to stop.

Big Cheech's Chicken and Waffles 9810 Carroll Canyon Road San Diego 92131 (858) 215-4221 Open daily 10 a.m.-9 p.m. website

The Grill At Willowbrook (Lakeside)

mmm-yoso!!!, a food blog, is being written by Cathy, who has some free time.  Kirk is busy.

If you happen to be in Lakeside, near the 67  (the Lakeside border is quite a distance along the 8) and on Riverside Drive, you might notice this sign between two Manufactured Home Parks on the East side of the street.  Turn in. 

 Park in the fairly large parking lot in front of this building and step inside.  It's open to the public.  The Pro Shop is to the left, the restaurant to the right and straight ahead is the Nine Hole Golf Course, which opened in 1955 and was re-designed in 1981.

  It's a challenging course that you get to walk twice. 
 The restaurant has seating inside and outdoors.  Menus are on each table, in the condiment rack.  Many people walk in to 'Grab and Go' food and beverages for the course, or just to take home.  A local place.
 Breakfast here is pretty basic.  Coffee is $1.86.  It's a good coffee.
 The Meat Lovers Omelette was listed on the black board as a special this day ($12.95)  and was made with three eggs, bacon, ham and sausage and topped with cheddar.  Quite large.  It was accompanied by toast and fried potato squares.  A very tasty and filling breakfast. 
 The French Toast Combo ($12.75) was just the right size for me- one slice of thick French Toast: crisp on the exterior; fluffy interior.  It was served with two eggs (poached) and a choice of two bacon, two link sausage or one sausage patty- which was excellent in flavor.  
   We came back for lunch one Friday, hoping to try the Friday ONLY Special of Fish & Chips, but the fryer would not be ready until about 1 p.m.. 
 The Chowder of Clam- we each had a cup (the photo is deceptive; it's a deep cup and filled with many clam pieces, potato and celery).  An excellent New England style clam chowder.
 I had ordered a half sandwich and soup ($10.50) and the sandwich was tuna salad-mostly tuna, very light mayonnaise and great quality-on toasted rye with lettuce and tomato and a pickle spear.  Quite enough food. 
 The Mister chose the Grilled Fish Plate ($15.95).  Seasoned white fish served with rice pilaf and mixed "Normandy" vegetables.  This was a very unexpectedly great meal!  A very large, thick piece of fish, nicely char-grilled and kind of fancy. 

A great restaurant. 

The Grill at Willowbrook 11905 Riverside Drive Lakeside, CA 92040 (619)561-1061 Website Open Mon-Fri 7 a.m., Sat-Sun 6 a.m.