mmm-yoso!!!

Ol' Rodeo's Meat Market and Yogurt Mill (El Cajon) again, but it's COVID-19

Thanks for stopping by to read mmm-yoso!!!, a food blog trying to share a bit of 'normal' during these decidedly abnormal times.  Cathy is writing today while Kirk enjoys His job.  

I wrote about our favorite 'secret' place for great food with great dessert back when times were simpler, all the way back in August of 2019.

 The small, conveniently located market has been in El Cajon for at least ten years.  The Mister and I purchase warm tortillas and carne asada as well as other meats from the butcher shop counter, while ordering from the in store taqueria. Way back when 'eating in' was allowed (October?November?) The Mister and I woke up talking about craving the birria.  The meal is now $8.99 and was brought to one of the properly spaced in-store tables. The birria is either beef or mutton (depending on the day) and is a deep flavored, long simmered (at least three hours) wonderful stew.  There are ancho as well as guajillo peppers, garlic, oregano and a wonderful mix of herbs and spices.
 We have been ordering birria "To Go" and the packaging is nice.  The broth is kept separate from the meat and the serving size is the same or larger as the in-store plating.
We usually order one taco ($2.50), so that the other person has something to eat while the other is enjoying the stew. Our favorite here is the adobada (marinated pork).
 Although the carnitas is quite nice.  

Eating local; an easy resolution.

Ol' Rodeo's Meat Market 927 Broadway El Cajon 92021 (619) 401-7351 

Right next door is The Yogurt Mill.  (That is Ol' Rodeo to the right in this photo)
 Family run now in its 43rd year. Just frozen yogurt and a variety of toppings. Five of the flavors change daily (including one non-dairy and one non-sugar), five remain the same (chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, coconut and peanut butter).  The "Baby" size ($3.60) is enough for sharing.  

  Flavors shown here are tart peach and pistachio; peanut butter and coffee (not photogenic, but tasty); strawberry and coconut.  

Always a nice ending to a good meal.

Yogurt Mill 935 Broadway El Cajon 92021 Open daily 11-9

Chef China (Spring Valley) Take away

mmm-yoso!!! , the food blog, is sometimes written by Cathy and usually written by Kirk.  Today it is Cathy's turn. 

Even in the era of COVID-19, The Mister and I have kept up our habit of just driving and stopping when we see interesting signage.   This storefront, just a block East of Grecian Cafe, across from Rana's and in the same mall as Fruity Loco  (as well as kitty corner from the former Butler's, (which now has plainer signage of "Coffee Shop) has been located in this same space since at least 2006.  Seeing that it was open (for take out only) and knowing that we were hungry..we parked and walked up.  

 There's a table at the doorway and you can order and pay, (although it did seem that most people were calling in orders).  We were told it would be about 20 minutes, so we walked to Fruity Loco for a (tamarind) raspado while we waited.

   Deciding to try an appetizer, nothing in that section of the menu looked interesting, but at the "Salt and Pepper" section of the menu were Salt and Pepper Chicken wings (six for $6.50, 12 for $10.60).  What a great choice!  Easily a meal, these large, meaty, garlic spiced properly fried (and still crispy after the drive home) wings were wonderful.  The rice wasn't necessary, but used for a future meal. 
 My usual 'first time' choice at Chinese restaurants is the (Shrimp) Egg Foo Young ($10.90). There were three large patties, nicely crisped, filled with fresh bean sprouts and onion, cabbage and carrot.  Apologies for no cross section photo.  The gravy for the Egg Foo Young was unique and delicious.  The sauce had large, juicy shrimp,  celery and chunks of water chestnuts, making the whole dish filled with texture as well as flavor.   Going for texture worked out well with the Shrimp Fried Noodles ($10.10).  Packaging for take out is important and keeping the noodles crispy is necessary.  The sauce had a different flavor than the one that went with the egg foo young.  The broccoli, sugar peas and carrots were crisp and fresh (canned mushrooms and bamboo shoots, of course) and each flavor was distinguishable. 

 Plating at home with a bit of everything.  We will be returning to this longstanding local restaurant.  

Chef China 9726 Campo Road Spring Valley 91977 Closed Monday Open Tues-Sat 11-9, Sun 3-9 (619) 460-7286

Grocery Market Steam Tray meals: Carnival, Sam Woo BBQ and Valley Foods

Thanks for stopping to read mmm-yoso!!!, a long running San Diego food blog.  Cathy is writing today while Kirk catches up with things.

At midnight, San Diego County is going back into the most strict lockdown phase (the purple tier, again).  (This time for at least three weeks).  Restaurants cannot be 'eat in'.  (Only outdoor dining will be allowed).  

The Mister and I have learned a lot during 2020. We have been cooking and baking more at home (another post) and initially would grab and go takeout from places that sort of specialize in take out items (Taco Shops; we have been to a lot of taco shops). I made a New Year Resolution more than 15 years ago that I would not use "drive through" windows anywhere and have stuck to that resolution to this day.  This resolution, which was meant to force me to park and walk inside businesses, has limited some access to food.

Anyhow, we also discovered a lot of restaurant food does not travel well and just doesn't taste the same at our table on our plates.  What we did realize is that grocery store Steam Tray food items DO travel well and make a good meal when we don't feel like cooking.

I wrote a post in 2012 about eating in at Carnival Market an we have had many meals to go from here over the years. The eat in area has been closed to the public since March. There is a good choice of meals and snacks in the steam tray area: fried and roasted chicken, many taco meats, various stews and fried fish. In particular, the fried whole fish plate (tilapia, rice, beans, tortillas ($7)) is a regular choice. There are a few daily choices of stews, sold by the pound (for an additional $2, you get tortillas, rice, beans, cilantro and onion).  The nice workers fill the container with meat, weigh and price it, then fill the rest with the juice.  This is beef birria (mutton is sometimes available).  

Carnival Supermarket 3560 Ashford Street San Diego 92111 (858) 277-1505 (Currently opens at 8 a.m. daily) 

I have written about eating in at Sam Woo, but not about the hundreds of quick meals we purchase at the Steam Tray area when first walking in.  Apparently I don't take many photos, either.   Choices of one, two and three items with rice or noodle usually has us ordering one all vegetable (eggplant) and a meat/vegetable choice.  Less than $7 and more than enough food to share.
 Except that we pretty much also ask for 1/2 pound of the BBQ pork or duck, because it is irresistible.

Sam Woo BBQ To Go 7330 Clairemont Mesa Blvd Ste 103 San Diego, CA 92111 (across the hall form 99Ranch Market) (currently opens at 9 a.m. daily) 

In East County, Valley Foods Mediterranean Market  has been around for more than ten years. The steam trays and grab and go areas have a great selection of choices.  Some things have changed. 

Now, if you would like a masgouf prepared fish, walk over to the fish counter and pick one out.  (currently, preparation including the fish is $3.99/pound) and the fish will be carried over to the steam try counter and you'll be asked if you want 'everything' (you do).  This fish was over three pounds ($14.33)(that's a regular size fork) and was two meals plus snacks for The Mister and myself. There are roasted tomatoes and onion in the pan. (Fun story about masgouf (the downfall of Saddam Hussein)).
 The fish is coated with oil and za'atar, a spice blend with thyme, oregano, savory and sumac as well as sesame seeds.  In the refrigerated area, we usually buy some baba ganoosh or hummus, the home made (cream top) yogurt and tabbouleh. There is an area next to the cash register with 'pizza', but really these are flatbreads, one topped with cheese, the other with za'atar ($1.50 each)   Next to the seafood counter, you'll see an open door (into the baking area) with signage above the door.  Breads made in stone ovens ($1.50 white, $1.75 wheat and $2 sesame topped).  I usually ask for the sesame topped bread and it's made fresh and handed to me in a paper bag, very hot. 

One day I was alone shopping and decided on something light. Beef or chicken kabob ($1.50 each). These are beef.  It is all I ordered.  I paid $3 plus tax.  Look at all the condiments!  Roasted tomato and onion, raw onion, pickles, pickled cabbage.  What a substantial meal. 

Valley Foods 1275 East Main Street El Cajon 92021 (619) 749-8355 Website

There are many choices for prepared foods in this time of COVID-19.

Golden Bagel Cafe (El Cajon)

After 23 years, Golden Bagel Cafe has closed, a great loss.  It will be missed.  Cheers Deli remains open (but does not have bagels).

mmm-yoso!!! is being written by Cathy today; Kirk is still on a vacation with His Missus.

The Mister and I have tried to avoid patronizing chain businesses during this time of COVID-19 and lockdown.  The Golden Bagel, located at the intersection of Navajo and Fletcher Parkway, in El Cajon (right on the border of La Mesa) is locally owned and prides itself on fresh made, preservative free items.  It is a sister store of Cheers Deli which has been in business for 20+ years  and is located about a mile west. (I know, I have to do a post) 
 Stepping inside, the selection of bagels (25 flavors) is good in the early morning.  There are a variety of beverages available (although many opt for the Starbucks next door). There is plenty of out front seating.  Here's a quick sampling of some of our breakfasts here.
 Pumpernickel bagel with cream cheese ($2.99)  You can taste the rye flour in this bagel and it is so very fresh and bright. On the right here is a bialy- a baked bread (the bagels here are water boiled) topped with poppy seeds and onion.  A lighter, softer (yet chewy) bread, I like the differences between a bialy and a bagel.  Toasted and buttered is a wonderful treat. The cheese topped bagel is also a favorite  (with butter, $1.99).
 Ham and cheddar with avocado and tomato on an everything, open face. ($8.99  plus $1 for the avocado=$9.99; we went for it).  There is a choice of cheeses, the avocado made this kind of perfect.  Open face, warm and melted- shareable! (The open face sandwiches cost more than a regular bagel sandwich.  You can see each half is substantial).

 The open face smoked salmon ($11.99) (of course on pumpernickel) .  Pacific Northwest Smoked salmon (lox), cream cheese, tomatoes, lettuce, red onion, dill and capers (and a slice of a really good pickle).  Quality as well as quantity; more than enough to share.

There are wraps, focaccia, pizza melts, salads...a nice menu.  Always nice people work here.  We had always passed by and are so glad we have finally stopped (and stopped in again and again!)

Golden Bagel Cafe 2744 Fletcher Parkway El Cajon 92020 Open Mon-Sat 6 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun 7 a.m.-3 p.m. (619) 464-2243 Website

Arely (one more time, eating outdoors)

mmm-yoso!!! is a food blog.  Usually Kirk writes here, but he is taking a short vacation with His Missus.  Cathy is writing today.

In this time of COVID-19, everything has changed.  Although I haven't written about Arely since 2017, The Mister and I have dropped in pretty regularly.  
There is seating out front as well as indoors.  When you order and pay, the table where you will be seated is noted and food will be brought to you.The strawberry cream cheese stuffed French Toast (a white board special, $8.95) is wonderful.  The cream cheese melted inside the middle of the thick sliced egg and cinnamon battered bread; the fresh strawberries on top added enough sweetness (it did not need the accompanying 'breakfast syrup').
The Arely Scramble ($12.95) is served on top of a toasted English muffin.  The eggs are scrambled with a lot of bacon. There is sliced avocado and the freshly made hollandaise, which  was almost-but not quite- breaking (either the egg yolks were too hot or there was too much butter, darn it!). The bites of this were kind of perfect.

 We usually always order the French onion soup when here for lunch.  It is flavorful and the broth is not salty.  The melted cheese and crunch of French bread/'crouton' make it perfect, even though eating out of a reusable bowl is different. A slice of quiche is accompanied by a small salad and some slices of baguette. This is ham and cheese and there are many chunks of ham, a great custard (with a slight nutmeg flavor) and plenty of cheese.  
 The chicken Florentine (mushroom-spinach) crepe ($10.25) was covered in a delightful cream sauce which went well with the 
 accompanying side of home potatoes.  Bell pepper and onion and crispy browned potato chunks made for a good leftover portion. We can't resist ordering some sort of sweet from the bakery counter.  The fresh made (still warm) almond croissant is always a good choice. 

Still going strong after all these years and during COVID-19 times. A great neighborhood bakery cafe.

Arely French Bakery 4961 Clairmont Drive San Diego 92117 (619) 270-1910 Currently Open Monday 7 a.m.-4 p.m., Tues-Sat 7 a.m.-8 p.m., Sun 7:30 a.m.-7 p.m.

Tofu House (Mira Mesa)

mmm-yoso!!!, a food blog, is being written by Cathy today.  Kirk and His Missus are really enjoying a well deserved vacation.

I hadn't realized how long ago Ed(from Yuma) and I had met for lunch at Tofu House.  I will miss his wit, wisdom and sense of adventure. When restaurants were allowed to reopen and we started being less afraid of COVID-19, The Mister and I decided we wanted to get food we could not replicate at home: Korean, in particular.  Cravings, you know.

As usual, we drive without a plan and look for open restaurants.  We also now look for tents outside of businesses and noticed the other location of Tofu House was open. As part of our "COVID-19 Caution", we think getting somewhere right when it opens means the tables are freshly sanitized.
   When we left, it was getting busy.

There are giant menus on the exterior of the building, 
 
As well as a QR code on each table, so you can read the menu on your phone. Once you order, your condiments and utensils are brought out.
 An appetizer (or possibly complete small meal), the crispy fried dumplings ($8) are good to share. The Korean 'pot stickers'/mandu have a thicker skin and are primarily meat filled.  These are very good. Crispy fried tofu with mushrooms and seasonal vegetables ($12) is a very satisfying meal.  The fresh fried tofu as well as the stir fried melange of vegetables have a variety of textures and bright flavors.  After eating about half, I added some kimchee/spicy condiments to the plate.  It was a whole new set of flavors. 
  The Hot Stone crispy rice  Meat Party ($12) was the choice of The Mister on one visit.  Marinated rib eye, beef short ribs and chicken served on top of the rice, sizzling in the stone pot (creating such a lovely crust of rice to enjoy at the end of the meal), this was a fragrant, nicely spiced good sized serving of all the ingredients.  I could still taste/discern the various flavors of meats and enjoyed each of them.   
 The Boiled Tofu Seafood Special Combo ($11) is my personal favorite item to order.  Shrimp, clam, scallop, fish ball, calamari, beef and pork as well as the soft soon tofu all served as a bubbling, flavorful stew.  
 The bulgogi with glass noodle (no tofu) ($12) is another good selection on a cool day.  Another stew, the marinated rib eye, shiitake and white mushrooms along with seasonal vegetables is another flavorful choice. 

 The stews come with either white or multigrain rice (which is sort of purple in color and has a wonderful nutty flavor).

Tofu House 9089 Mira Mesa Boulevard San Diego CA 92126 (858)860-5296 Open noon-8 daily website 

PLEASE NOTE: This location is currently (November 2020) only doing Take-Out. The 4646 Convoy Street location has Outdoor Seating

Tealightful Cafe -delightful Vietnamese beverages and snacks (Clairmont Mesa)

Thanks for stopping to read mmm-yoso!!!, a food blog.  Kirk and His Missus are taking some time off and Cathy is writing this post.

There is so much to tell you about my version of 2020, but for right now a recently opened snack/meal/beverage place deserves a share.

Back in 2007, the discovery of shops serving boba drinks and snacks  was fascinating for The Mister and myself.  We found some tea centric businesses which had  meal/snacks available, like  Tea Station and Tapioca Express as well as (now defunct) Tea Garden and E & Drink.  Over time we have stopped in a few other places, trying interesting beverages and snacks.  

In the same parking lot as Little Sheep, we noticed the new signage and outdoor tented seating.  {During this pandemic, The Mister and I will eat "in" if we get to a place right when it opens, because the seating has just been set up and cleaned.}

The spacing to get to the order area is clear.  There is a paper menu taped to the front window as well as next to and behind the register. Here is a link to the website menu; it has changed over the past few weeks.

Being creatures of habit, the Chicken Pop Pop ($6) was an automatic order. A good size portion of moist chicken,  perfectly fried with a light, crispy crust (with a bit of spice) and fried basil accompanied by a spicy mayo sauce and garlic chunks with chiles.The papaya salad with beef jerky ($6.50) was delightfully refreshing! Fresh green papaya, shredded basil, a moist beef jerky and fried garlic.  The dressing, garlic hot sauce and crisp peanuts were just right when mixed in. 
The 'vermicelli noodle bowl with pork' ($8), a great version of Vietnamese "bun" was fresh made (still warm noodles, good marinade on the sliced char cooked pork) and had excellent flavors before and after the condiments were added. 
We tried ordering the char grilled squid ($10) but it wasn't available the first two times we were here.  Finally it was available and worth the wait.  Rings, tentacles and a spicy, citrusy dipping sauce made this a perfect little meal. Seeing nem neuong on the menu ($6, three pieces), we had to try, but didn't expect Brodard quality.  I must say the thick pork roll slices, freshness, warm sauce and crisp egg roll wrapper inside makes the version here a close second.   
A short interlude to mention beverages.  Only one size.  The price varies from $4-$5.50.  Every one we have tried is good.  The elderberry milk tea ($4) with house made elderberry syrup is refreshing and not too sweet.   The colorful strawberry matcha latte doesn't look as pretty when shaken, but the flavors are wonderful.  

There is a fried banana on the menu ($2.50). It's a whole manzano banana, so you'll either get two or three pieces.

 Dipped in a sesame seeded batter and fried to a proper crispness, the batter is thicker than on the chicken and the result is a delightful crispy banana filled snack.  

 We were going to order a regular (hot coffee) to go with the banana on one visit but the lure of cream cheese topped Vietnamese coffee (no condensed milk/sweetener)($4.50) was an indulgent end to the meal that day. 

Everything on this post will be ordered again, the freshness and quality is noteworthy. 

Tealightful Cafe 4726 Clairmont Mesa Blvd San Diego, CA 92117 (858)352-6584 Open Daily 11 a.m. Currently, closes at 9 p.m. on Thurs, Fri, Sat. Otherwise closes at 8 p.m. Website 

The French Oven-revisits

Thanks for stopping to read mmm-yoso!!!, a food blog since May 26, 2005. Cathy is writing today's post; Kirk has a job with assignments which have deadlines.

I did write a post in August of 2018 about The French Oven, an obscurely located (it's in the middle of a neighborhood, across from a public park) locally owned Bakery and Cafe.  With the onset of Covid-19, whenever we do go out to eat, we've made a conscious effort to remain 'local'- both in terms of the businesses where The Mister and I make purchases and distance from home if no outdoor seating is available. The French Oven has become a 'regular' stop. 

 Only two people at a time are allowed inside and there is sometimes a bit of a line outdoors, but it does move fast.  There is a table at the door where pre-paid orders are placed to be picked up.  There are paper menus available just inside the door, if you want to 'plan' your purchase while waiting. Let's start with the 'Breakfast' part of the menu.  Egg bites ($3) are available in three flavors: Ham, Veggie and Sun-dried tomato.  This is the non-vegetarian choice-ham, bacon, Swiss, tomato, parsley and caramelized onions.  It is quite large and the flavors are each distinct, melding well together.  It can (and should) be warmed.

 The Ham and Cheese croissant ($4.75) is topped with cheese and filled with Black Forest Ham, Swiss and Béchamel. Creamy interior with a bit of a crunch from the croissant, distinct flavors and even better when warmed.
The lox for the Salmon lox croissant ($9) is cured here (not smoked).  A very plentiful amount of salmon, served on a fresh croissant with sliced cucumbers, sliced onion, capers and a dill creme fraiche. Large enough to share, but sometimes I want it all.  
In the refrigerator section (below the pastry display case) are beverages, salads and quarts of soups ($10).  This one is French onion and (of course) it was wonderful.  The complimentary cheesy croutons make the reheated soup bowls just perfect.    The soup selections vary each week and last week it was chilled sweet pea (meant to be served cold) with croutons.  We had the first two bowls with some home made egg salad on a Batard purchased that day.  I could taste sugar snap peas, lemon and mint in this 'French gazpacho'-which was a refreshing break on those hot days we had last week.
 The Caprese Sandwich ($8) is served on a fresh baguette with fresh mozzarella, tomato, pesto, basil, olive oil and balsamic.  Always a good choice. The Turkey avocado BLT ($8.50) is also a quite perfect sandwich.  It has all of those ingredients plus a herb aioli.  So many flavors, but none overwhelms. The way a sandwich should be.   

 The chicken curry sandwich ($8) has a layer of mango chutney which is not overwhelmed by the mild curry, pickled onions, mixed greens or tomato.  An interesting blend of unique flavors.
 We have been using the excuse of 'needing bread' as our reason to drive here and the purchase has always been the Batard ($3.50).  It is a simple, fresh made, chewy, flavorful bread.  Shorter but wider than a baguette, so over three days, we have different size sandwiches or toast.

 There is usually something 'special' on the counter or in the refrigerator each week-jams, sauces or, at this visit, house made pate ($8). Oh my, the paste containing liver, fat, herbs, spices, cognac had an abundance of flavors.  We 'rationed' it out (needed to- very rich) serving it on slices of baguette along with some burrata on a batard (and some wine). 
R.A.C-Raspberry, almond and chocolate croissant ($4.50) is far more complex than an almond croissant.  Almost overwhelming in flavors except that the croissant is not overfilled, keeping a good balance. The pear tart ($4.95) is made with a sugar dough crust, lined with almond cream and topped with sliced pears.  Always a good choice. 
 The apricot tart ($4.95) is made with some flavorful apricots and also has an almond cream filling.   The fruit tart ($4.95) also has an almond cream topped with a jam and seasonal fruit.  Every piece of fruit is amazing.
 The raisin brioche ($3.25) satisfies my craving for raisin, custard and buttery brioche.  It needs coffee to make it perfect, though.

The French Oven is a great local place. Kirk has been here, here is cc's visit, Lynn from Oh So Yummy has a recent post.

The French Oven 10299 Scripps Trail San Diego 92131 (858) 766-8706 Closed Mon-Tue Open Wed-Sat 7-3, Sun 7-2 Website

Mikami- revolving sushi (no conveyor to revolve (covid-19))

mmm-yoso!!! is usually written by Kirk and sometimes Cathy helps.  Todays post is from Cathy, because Kirk is busy with work.  

Long story short, it is 2020 and there are many reasons I haven't posted about meals since mid-February.  Now that the world, as well as eating out, has changed, here is an update from my January 2020 post about Mikami, a revolving sushi bar.  The Mister and I had been here twice more, but everything was about the same as that first post.  Now, with Covid-19, there is no revolving sushi or indoor bar area. The "Dine In" signage is leftover from when there was a six week or so variation in Covid-19 'rules'; why take it down when things could change tomorrow?.  As of now, all California restaurant dining is "to go" or outdoor tables.  I understand not wanting to expose yourself to possible Covid-19 and The Mister and I will eat outside at the opening time of restaurants- assuming the unused tables were just brought out and are freshly cleaned. 
 On this day, only three tables were set up when we got to Mikami.  One was for handicapped. We were given paper menus and a pencil.  Most of one menu was rolls and typical two piece sushi and sashimi selections.  Hot green tea ($2.85) came in a paper cup, water in a plastic cup (with a straw!) and condiments in disposable containers. 
We decided to order the chicken karaage appetizer($6).  This seemed to be a larger portion than we had here previously.  Hot, fresh, tender, juicy, crispy/properly fried.  It came with a mayonnaise and spicy (not Sriracha, which is sweet and not sambal, which has garlic) sauce for dipping.  Delightful.
 We chose two hand rolls: soy paper yellowtail and the spider roll ($3.75 each). The yellowtail was not the spicy version and had great flavors of fish, cucumber and a better (sushi) rice.  The soy paper is embedded with sesame seeds, which adds a toasted sesame flavor and crunch. The 'spider' is a half of a soft shell clam along with crab, avocado and cucumber wrapped in seaweed. These were larger than we remember and were made to order. 
 We decided to order a "Mikami Seafood Bucket Shrimp" (one pound, $15, add $2 for headless).  The Cajun style buckets have been available only in the bar area and we have been curious.  

A variety of flavors as well as (cajun spice) heat levels are available and we were simple and ordered garlic butter, which lined the heavy plastic bag filled with hot, freshly steamed shrimp.  The photo of the plate is about half of the bag and the 'dip' is the sauce poured out into an emptied ginger condiment cup.  You can see there was some spice used in the cooking process and it was just the right amount.   

Trying to patronize locally owned places, the food is good here. 

Mikami Revolving Sushi and Bar 7319 Clairmont Mesa Boulevard, San Diego 91911 Open Tues-Sun 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Closed Monday {Covid hours; check website -things might change Website 

 The parking lot is empty if you get there at opening.

Ka Prao Thai Cuisine (Mission Valley)

mmm-yoso!!!, a blog 'o food, is being written by Cathy today; Kirk is enjoying the three day weekend with His Missus.

There are many malls in the Mission Valley area, the one which now is anchored by Living Spaces (used to be a K-Mart) has a series of restaurants opposite their frontage, sharing the same parking lot.  Ka Prao Thai Cuisine has been here since June 2015.  

The menu behind the cash register, as well as a few wall posters and a chalkboard out front have menu items.  Most are pretty standard.
 The wok Stir fry ($11) of pork with mixed vegetables was wonderful! Cabbage, mushrooms, carrot, green beans, Chinese and American broccoli, garlic and house made soy sauce was a wonderful combination. The four piece chicken wing appetizer ($6.50) was tasty (they're marinated in fresh garlic, fish sauce, lemongrass and cilantro) but this photographed serving was a few seconds over-fried.  Still moist and meaty, flavorful.Fried tofu ($6.50 six pieces), served with a sweet and sour sauce.  It's always good.
 The papaya salad ($10) is great.  Green papaya, tomato, carrot shreds, green beans, large cooked shrimp and peanuts mixed with a spicy lime dressing-great, great flavors; so fresh. 
 The Ka Prao Kai Dao (namesake) ($11.50) was another great meal.  Minced pork, sautéed with basil and garlic chili sauce, topped with a fried egg and served with jasmine rice. Wonderful!   This is a photo of one of the wall menus.  (I was here with cc and we shared).
 Grilled Lemongrass Chicken ($14).  It's marinated overnight in lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, turmeric, curry powder, coconut milk, soy sauce.  Grilled then served with sticky rice and a side salad (with a ginger soy dressing).  This is a meal so enjoyable-the multitude of flavors are not overwhelming but complimentary; distinct. Plus, sticky rice.  Can't talk about Thai food without curry.  This one is a peanut curry...pretty much a yellow curry with peanuts added.  Carrot, potato and onion with chicken ($11)-nicely flavored.  
Also must try Larb ($11) when seen on a menu.  This version is made with minced pork, mint, lemongrass, onion, chili, roasted rice, cilantro and lime juice.  A great version.  

Heat level choices here are 1-10. Two is almost 'too safe', but allows enjoyment of all of the flavors.   

Ka Prao Thai Cuisine 8590 Rio San Diego Drive, Suite 105 San Diego 92108 Open: Mon-Fri:10:30-3, 4:30-9  Sat-Sun 11-9 Website