Tuesday, June 26, 2007

San Diego Reviews: Restaurants, Doctors, Bars, Salons and more.

San Diego Reviews: Restaurants, Doctors, Bars, Salons and more.
You find lot's of longboarders here but the inside set is also decent
for the fast trackers. http://www. beaconsbeach.com /. Leucadia
Surf Shop ...

Chula Vista Yoga Center
Neighborhood: Chula Vista

255 E Street
Chula Vista, CA 91912

P.A. P. writes: While I've just returned to this yoga studio after being away for almost four months, I've been going there for almost four years now... and I just have to say because I need an outlet today and because I just might be PMSing, "People, there is NO TALKING in yoga!" I was there on Monday morning, and I felt myself totally agitated before the class even started because of all the loud talking going on. I mean, the time before your practice is meant for centering yourself, for stretching, for zen-like behavior... I mean, really, if I wanted a gym-like ambiance, I'd go to a gym. Okay, thanks for letting me vent. I'll be more zen-like tomorrow, promise. :o)

Stacey Lin MD

477 N El Camino Real
Encinitas, CA 92024

Stephanie C. writes: Love her! I can always get a fast appointment and it's convienent to the area. I feel comfortable with her. She is nice and knowledgable. And there is a pharmacy right downstairs!

Siamese Basil

527 S Coast Highway 101
Encinitas, CA 92024

Steph L. writes: I've never been disappointed with a meal here. They also have some authentic dishes that you don't often see at most other Thai places in San Diego. I'm not a huge fan of the wait (even on weekdays), but the service is good, and it's not expensive.

Cal Pacific Orchid Farm

1122 Orpheus Ave
Leucadia, CA 92024

Julie G. writes: Cal Pacific is a hidden sanctuary of sorts. Its two acres of greenhouses, filled with exotic orchids from around the world is breathtaking. Unless you have a passion for orchids you most likely would not come across this place in your everyday travels as it is located off the beaten path. Tucked away on a quiet street in Leucadia, Cal Pacific is also home to the only neighborhood Orchid Hotel where you can bring in your orchid plants whose blooming season has finished and this place will re-pot, nurture and house your babies until they bloom again. The rate is $1.50 per month per plant and there is a minimum of 5 plants per hotel lot. Pretty nifty eh? Orchids stay in bloom anywhere from one to four months. The owner Kathy Desmond has been in the flower biz for many years and although most local greenhouses have been sold to developers this one is here to stay. The pictures tell it all. www.calpacificorchids.com

Grateful Dog

802 N Coast Hwy 101
Leucadia, CA 92024

Julie G. writes: Gerry Garcia would be proud of this groovy little doggie shoppe and styling place. As we are all grateful for our dogs this Grateful Dog goes a step further by rewarding our dogs with fancy clothes, collars and gourmet treats that look so delicious you wouldn't want to leave them out on your table. They even serve doggie cupcakes. Their grooming services are also very truckin' makin' your pooch a happy camper or at least one that smells of patchouli. Not really but squeaky clean. You can also find healthy foods and nutritious supplements to keep your doggie on the road of life while feelin' fine. Oh and their phone number is 760.943.WOOF....gotta love that.

Shatto & Sons Custom T-Shirts

696 N Coast Highway 101
Encinitas, CA 92024

Julie G. writes: This custom T-shirt shop has been around since the 70's and still serves up that old-school flavor. Although they can put anything you like on a T-shirt or cap, they do have their own unique design sense. Also a retail shop, you can buy shirts with local logos representing the various neighboring towns in all sizes including infant and toddler. Of course surfing logos are very popular here as are sunset and tie-dye themes. Adjacent to Mozy's Cafe, feel free to browse around while you are waiting for some of the best food on the planet. Check out my review of Mozy's while you are at it.

North County Equipment Inc

766 N Coast Highway 101
Encinitas, CA 92024

Julie G. writes: This is an small motor equipment repair shop specializing in lawnmowers. I brought my lawnmower here which was an older model and they were able to fix it. Repair shops of this nature are few and far between so it's nice to know that these guys are here and ready to serve.

Del Mar Hills Nursery School
Neighborhood: Torrey Pines

13692 Mango Dr
Del Mar, CA 92014

Julie G. writes: There are not enough stars in Yelp to award this fine pre-school and kindergarten. This school was founded back in the 70's by a German woman who brought across unique and creative learning techniques with her such as Reggio Emilia from Italy, Orff Schulwerk known here as Orff, Froebel Philosophy and Montessori. These programs incorporate art, music, recreation, self-study, interactive learning to name a few and blend them in a way that each child progresses from a place of confidence and balance. They even offer yoga twice a week. http://www.dmhns.com for more info.

St Tropez Bakery & Bistro

947 S Coast Highway 101
Encinitas, CA 92024

Peter R. writes: With great food and a great location, Saint Tropez has it all. I have never ordered something here that I didn't like. Pastries, eggs, sandwiches - all excellent. They also have a good selection of beverages, including the best orange juice (fresh-squeezed of course) I have ever tasted. There are plenty of seating options, inside and out, all of which are nice, though I prefer to sit out on the patio on a sunny day. It's not the place to go for a cheap meal, but the prices are well worth it for what you get ($8-12 for breakfast/lunch).

San Diego Brewing Co
Neighborhood: Grantville

10450 Friars Rd Ste L
San Diego, CA 92120

Brad F. writes: The ambiance here leaves a bit to be desired, but I guess it's a typical bar. Really the only things worth mentioning are their house beers on tap. I tried the sampler...don't bother, most of them aren't very good. Their pale ale and amber are reasonable but not amazing, but the Old Town Nut Brown is a very good beer. I would return here just for another pint of that. Other than that, the bartender was a nice enough guy, there were myriad sports games on the TVs and not nearly enough good looking girls, my girlfriend being the obvious exception. :) At least there's ample parking, I guess.

Clean Sense

328 La Mesa Ave
Encinitas, CA 92024

Julie G. writes: Clean Sense is an expert carpet cleaning service owned and operated by David Potts. He provides top quality work at fair prices for your carpets and upholstery. The is steam cleaning at it's best. This guy can get out the stains out and keep them out. He's been in business since 1989 and has no plans of retiring soon. He is definitely the best around and he does all the work himself!.

Dana Photographs

San Diego, CA 92128

Julie G. writes: Dana Parnes truly takes unforgettable natural light portraits of you or the entire family. She specializes in children and captures their essence through the eyes of a child. Dana will create a CD featuring images from the sessions which also includes background music. She shot my daughter last season on the beach and the images are some of my all-time favorites. The Website tells it all: www.danaphotographs.com

FORTE

722 Genevieve Street
Solana Beach, CA 92075

Julie G. writes: Laurie Shoman is a hair designer who works at Forte in Solana Beach. She is the best hair colorist on the planet hands down, bar none! Wherever you live make the trip as her techniques are perfect and the results always come out beautiful if that is the look you are going for. I'm sure she can do funky, glamorous and adventurous as well. Her styling is also perfect so I guess she is just a perfect hair stylist who is cool to boot!

Jill VanMeter L.Ac.

1104 Gardenview Road
Blue Star Body Lounge
Encinitas, CA 92024

Julie G. writes: Jill VanMeter is a healing arts therapist specializing in acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. She has been treating patients for over 18 years and has helped me extensively with injuries in various parts of my body. My injuries healed rapidly and on many occasions completely vanished after treatment. She sees clients at Blue Star Body Lounge on Gardenview. She also applies acupuncture techniques for non-surgical face-lifts. Jill is also a fabulous yoga guide teaching locally throughout Encinitas.

James Dyer H.H.P. CCN CCP

681 Encinitas Blvd. # 316
North Shore Acupuncture
Encinitas, CA 92024

Julie G. writes: James Dyer is an excellent Ayounge Massage therapist whose techniques draw from a wide range of styles. He infuses ancient Asian styles with the best of Europe and the blend is wonderful. Expect your hour session to go over time as he will work on you until he feels you are finished. James is also a certified Clinical Nutritionist and Herbalist. He works out of the North Shore Acupuncture center in Encinitas.

Pac Mortgage Solutions

603 N.Highway 101
Ste J
Solana Beach, CA 92075

Julie G. writes: Sabrina L. Boyd is a sharp and thorough mortgage specialist. Her business allows clients to redirect their debt into secure investments. She is quickly becoming an expert in the field as she continually studies with top experts in the industry. Her business is happily By Referral Only. She has helped many individuals prosper and live their dreams. Sabrina is currently one of two specialists doing Mortgages in Mexico where investments are booming. Give her a ring and she'll fill you in with honest and expert advice.

Encinitas Viewpoint Park

Cornish Drive & D Street
Encinitas, CA 92024

Julie G. writes: The Encinitas area has some of the best little parks around and this one is no exception. Located in the Old-Town Encinitas section, Viewpoint Park is a nice place to relax and enjoy the day. This is one of the only parks that has a off leash dog policy on certain days so beware when you go or you might get run over my the doggie locals. There is cute playground area for kids and an overlook where you can find some privacy for a morning meditation. This parked has also been booked for weddings and other gatherings as its makes a setting for such. Off-leash doggie hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday 6am - 7:30am and 4pm - 6pm.

Vintage Bike Repair

324 Liverpool Dr
Encinitas, CA 92024

Julie G. writes: Eric Contreras' love of vintage Schwinn bikes lead him to become not only a collector but an expert in refurbishing and repairing these classic beauties. Through his side business, Eric has restored Schwinn bikes made in 1932. These bikes are part of the American heritage and those made 30 years ago are simply stronger and sturdier that those made today. The originals feature American and German steel parts and frames while the newer models are all made in China and are not meant to last 30 years. These are the Cadillac of cruisers and when you ride you you'll know what I'm talking about.

Glen Park

2149 Orinda Dr
Cardiff By The Sea, CA 92007

Julie G. writes: Also known as Cardiff Park, Glen Park is another beautiful place to visit and enjoy the morning, day or dusk. One one side, It sports a nice playground area placed in sand and suitable for toddlers as well as other features such as basketball court, tennis courts, beach volleyball area and a horseshoe area. On the other is a large gazebo with built in tables and rollings greenery also with picnic tables sporadically placed with grills alongside so multiple parties can coincide without interrupting each other.

Blue Star Body Lounge

1104 Gardenview Rd
Encinitas, CA 92024

Julie G. writes: You've gotta love this place just based on the name alone. I think that if I had a band I would use this name. Anyway, it is a stellar place from the moment you walk in....simply groovalicious, warm and friendly. It's so cool that you could spend an entire afternoon there just sipping tea and enjoying the vibe. Ask for Amy who does great waxing and gives good facials to boot.

Gemmae Bake Shop
Neighborhood: Mira Mesa

10606 Camino Ruiz
San Diego, CA 92126

Mark D. writes: I don't know who Gemmae is...but I want to call him/her "mom/dad". Fresh and hot empanadas, and other Filipino baked goods. They even have some hot meals.

Manila Fast Food Restaurant & Desserts
Neighborhood: Mira Mesa

8979 Mira Mesa Blvd
San Diego, CA 92126

sam k. writes: 10 lumpia shanghai for $2.99! What a steal!

A Little Moore Coffee Shop

1030 N Coast Hwy 101
Leucadia, CA 92024

David G. writes: It's a small diner, with normal diner fair. The staff is chill and friendly, and so is the atmosphere, minus the God-foresaken motocycles that cruise by. The food is good for diner food, and priced accordingly. There's not a lot else to say. It's a great place to go after an early AM surf sesh at Grandview or Beacons, or after waking up in the bushes outside the Leucadian.

Le Papagayo

1002 North Hwy 101
Leucadia, CA 92024

Carlos R. writes: This is a very cool place to dine and party. The food is excellent. Great seafood entrees... Salmon, Sea Bass... The atmosphere is festive. Although it's kind of small, there is outside dining overlooking the street.

Beacon's Beach

Neptune & Leucadia Blvd.
Leucadia, CA 92024

Josh S. writes: All of the beaches in San Diego are incredible...except for this one. You'd be happier somewhere else, I can tell by the way you're reading this. I mean, you're going to have to walk down a big hill...then back up it...if you can even find a parking spot....you really don't want to do all that do you Why don't you head back down to moonlight, you'll like it there!

Leucadia Surf Shop

1144 N Coast Highway 101
Encinitas, CA 92024

Julie G. writes: This is a simple and classic California surf shop. Expect to find a nice selection of boards, wetsuits and surf paraphernalia. They also rent boards, wetsuits and gear here all year round. They do carry essential such as warm jackets and standard cold-water getting-out-of-the-surf sweats. They are usually all gone by the beginning of spring when the surf trunks arrive. The best part about this shop is the manager Mitch Caudle. He just rocks! You can't miss him as he's a big blond dude always wearing a smile.

Ding King

591 Westlake St Ste D
Encinitas, CA 92024

Julie G. writes: The Ding King, Brian Samanski has been de-dinging surfboards since the beginning of time.... well not really that long. But anyway, he's considered an expert in his field so your baby will definitely be in good hands with this doctor. Check out the Website for a complete price list: http://www.dingkingsurfboardrepair.com/

Andersons La Costa Nursery

400 La Costa Avenue
Leucadia, CA 92024

Julie G. writes: Visiting Andersons is like getting lost in a dream of blossoming flowers. While walking through the grounds, you'll feel as though you are truly in a secret garden surrounded by harmonious water flowing through decorative fountains that are placed about. In the very back is a doll house big enough for children to venture in. They focus on California succulents and other flowering beauties meant for this dry climate. All of the fountains are for sale as well and they have some exquisite ones. The service is always friendly with expert advice. The owners work on the premises and take pride in their babies.

Leucadia Roadside Park

Leucadia Blvd. and N Coast Hwy. 101
Leucadia, CA 92024

Julie G. writes: This is probably the tiniest park in all of North County. It sits right alongside Hwy 101 and Leucadia Blvd and if you blink you will miss it for sure. It is very sweet however and beautifies the intersection. I have to say though that I've never really seen anyone hang out there. It consists of a few bordering trees, two picnic tables and really pretty grass.

Library the
Neighborhood: Navajo

7459 Mission Gorge Rd
San Diego, CA 92120

David M. writes: Honestly, I haven't been here -- yet but I think the bar deserves five stars just for the excuse factor. ``Honey, I'm at the library right now.'' It's better than saying you're at the Office. There is one problem: Most libraries in San Diego aren't open in the evenings -- which is when most bars are, so be careful how you use it.

Jack In the Box
Neighborhood: Hillcrest

804 University Ave
San Diego, CA 92103

Chris K. writes: This may be the most impressive Jack in the Box man has ever seen. Just the decor itself gives it the extra fourth star. It's set up like a coffee shop but you eat your fried goodness there instead of coffee. I like the big lounge chairs with the little personal tables attached to them. Of course, the food is the same as any other Jack but it's nice to have a change in scenery from the others. I agree with David that the place attracts the local homeless. But there were local with-home people there too. Me being one of them.

C Spa & Salon
Neighborhood: La Jolla

7851 Herschel Ave
La Jolla, CA 92037

Christine C. writes: I went to C Spa to get my hair and makeup done for a very special event and I had a great experience. The hair stylist was able to give me exactly what I wanted and I didn't have to bring in a photo or anything. I wanted a partial up-do and the final result turned out great -- I was able to avoid the whole big, gaudy prom hair thing. I also got my makeup done by a C Spa makeup artists and I was so pleased with the result. The make up was very subtle and natural. I wish I could afford to go to C Spa for every special event, but the prices weren't astronomical considering the location of the salon, but I would go back next time I'm in need of a girlie makeover because the staff was super friendly, accommodating, and talented.

Alta-Dena Certified Dairy

4656 Cardin St
San Diego, CA 92111

Alissandra L. writes: This drive-thru convenience store will always hold a special place in my heart. One, because it's the only drive-thru store that I know of in San Diego, and two, because well..because it's a drive-thru convenience store! I remember the days when I had less than a minute to spare before getting to class or work, and I would easily purchase my cigarettes, snacks, drinks, condoms, mouthwash, can of campbell's chicken noodle soup, and dishwashing liquid all in one swoop! Ok, not the condoms or dishwashing liquid, but if you needed them, by golly, this place would hand them to you in a snap. Nothing beats shopping from the driver's seat, if you ask me. If you're in town, drive by and get yo-self somethin'.

Encore of La Jolla
Neighborhood: La Jolla

7655 Girard Ave
La Jolla, CA 92037

Christine C. writes: Oh it is a joy to shop here. This consignment shop is no Buffalo Exchange, because you can find some of the most exquisite designer goods at a semi-reasonable price. Encore sells second hand designer clothes. It is located in La Jolla and the store receives a lot of merchandise from La Jolla's snooty and affluent residents. Even if you can't afford to clothes here, you can have a lot of fun browsing through the vintage designer apparel. All kinds of noteworthy labels can be found here. I managed to score a Gucci purse for $99. I know that's not cheap, but hey, it goes with everything. I also tried on the cutest Marc Jacobs baby doll dress, but it didn't fit and I already went go-for-broke on the purse. I consider the store one of La Jolla's best kept secrets.

Salvation Army-Ray and Joan Kroc Center
Neighborhood: Rolando

6760 University Ave Ste 240
San Diego, CA 92115

David M. writes: This place is huge and has a swimming pool, a theater and an ice skating rink. There are lots of fun activities held regularly, including an annual literacy fair that was attended two years in a row by Stan Lee,the creator of Spider-Man and the Fantastic Four.

Marshalls
Neighborhood: La Jolla

8657 Villa La Jolla Dr Ste 111
La Jolla, CA 92037

Gabriel D. writes: Oh baby, this is like the mother lode for Marshall's. Rich people do love their shopping, and La Jolla is no exception. Great stuff here. Highly recommended.

Rice
Neighborhood: Downtown, Little Italy

421 W B Street
W Hotel
San Diego, CA 92101

Leah C. writes: Of course I'm partial since I'm the Marketing Manager at the W San Diego, but Rice is a true dining experience. I'm picking up what Nathan H. (below) is putting down. Beyond the great service and excellent global contemporary cuisine, you have the added value of cozying up in Magnet, the restaurant bar, with a "Porn Star" martini or wiggling your toes in the sand as you snuggle by the fire pit at Beach and "cheers" under the stars. And if the night is going really well, you can always stay overnight! W beds . . . in-room service . . . and no DUI. What a bargain!

Dave Keller Plumbing
Neighborhood: University Heights

2806 Madison Ave
San Diego, CA 92116

Marc P. writes: Over the past decade I have used Dave Keller multiple times, and he a reliable person who always does a very thorough job at a very reasonable price. You would be hard pressed to find a better plumber than Dave Keller. He is always my first choice to call for a plumber. Unfortunately, word about him has spread around so much (he has been plumbing in San Diego forever) that it is hard to get him on short notice, for something urgent, like a broken valve. If Dave Keller is unavailable, I would also recommend Rick Moore Plumbing; I have only used Rick once, but he did a good job at a very reasonable price (he can be reached at 858-278-8739, or on his cell at 858-243-2086), and I would definitely use him again if Dave were unavailable. Also, both Dave and Rick are very genuine people, and I always enjoy striking up a conversation with them.

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