Decor & Style Magazine

DECOR & STYLE MAGAZINE
 
NOVEMBER 2007

features

ESSENTIAL LUXURIES
We may have a loose definition of ‘essential’, but we know luxury!

FASHION SHOW
South Coast Plaza walks the runway for charity.

HOME OF THE YEAR
See stunning views on the outside and inside of this Santa Monica home.

LUXURY FASIONS
Fashionable extravagance for your dream bedroom.

HOLIDAY SPIRITS
Entertain with festive cocktails and our authoritative scotch guide.

LIGHTING
Don’t get left in the dark this winter…

departments

IT'S MORE THAN MONEY
WOMEN & WELLNESS
FACE TO FACE
FOOD & ENTERTAINING
DECOROSCOPE
RESTAURANT REVIEW
IDLE THOUGHTS
HOME THEATER
ARTIST PROFILE
GARDEN GUIDE
BUILDING A BETTER WORLD
THROUGH THE GRAPEVINE

in every issue

PUBLISHER'S NOTE
NEWS & EVENTS
LIVING WITH STYLE
DINING GUIDE
SOCIAL STYLE

dining guide

BALBOA PARK & HILLCREST

Arrivederci
3845 Fourth Ave.
619.299.6282
Fine Italian dining featuring authentic Northern and Southern Italian cuisine and impeccable service.

AVENUE 5
2760 5th Avenue
619.542.0394
The affordable seasonal menu features deliciously simple American cuisine with a French flair expertly prepared from the finest and freshest ingredients.

Busalacchi’s
3683 Fifth Ave.
619.298.0119
Fine Italian dining in a warm atmosphere with plenty of intimate nooks for cozying up next to your date or sharing dinner with friends.

Café One Three
4207 Park Boulevard
619.260.1311
Step into Café One Three and you could be stepping into a quaint local watering hole amidst the environs of Paris or Florence. This is the place where friends gather to drink wine, savor delicious and delicately prepared food and enjoy each other’s company. This diamond in the rough also offers cooking classes.

Corvette Diner
3946 Fifth Ave.
619.542.1476
For a tasty way to slip back in time, enjoy golden oldies and poodle skirts alongside delicious American cuisine.

Crush
530 University Ave.
619.291.1717
Modern sophistication meets funky and fun at this Hillcrest hot spot serving tasty American food and featuring more than 50 wines by the glass.

Kemo Sabe
3958 Fifth Ave.
619.220.6802
Award–winning Pacific Rim and Asian fusion cuisine featuring some of Southern California?s most artistically presented plates.

La Vache
420 Robinson Ave., #A
619.295.0214
Traditional French country cuisine with a variety of seasonal specialties make this restaurant magnifique!

Laurel Restaurant
505 Laurel St.
619.239.2222
Serving a unique blend of French and Mediterranean cuisine with Asian accents in an incredibly elegant atmosphere. Try one of the cleverly named cocktails: tantra kiss, elderbubble, green tea teaser.

The Prado
1549 El Prado
619.557.9441
An impeccable Italian–Latin menu made with fresh Southern California ingredients coupled with beautiful views of Balboa Park from the outdoor patio.

Region
3671 Fifth Ave.
619.299.6499
Fresh local products and simple seasonal cuisine with distinct Mediterranean influences in a down-to-earth atmosphere.

Sambuca
3888 University Ave.
619.298.8700
Relax and enjoy a glass of wine with one of the excellent choices on this menu featuring Northern and Southern Italian cuisine.

BEACHES & POINT LOMA

Baleen
1404 W. Vacation Road
858.490.6363
Stylish design and beautiful bayside views complement fresh seafood dishes. Enjoy specialties such as the sesame–crusted halibut with a sake–infused Asian slaw.

Caffé Bella Italia
1525 Garnet Ave.
858.273.1224
The interior speaks softly and envelops customers in earth colors with a Mediterranean touch. The service is detailed and friendly. A fun and charming restaurant where locals and Italians love to dine.

Lamont Street Grill
4445 Lamont St.
858.270.3060
Enjoy tasty American cuisine in this beautifully remodeled Pacific Beach home.

Thee Bungalow
4996 W. Point Loma Blvd.
619.224.2884
Intimate dining, great wine and fancy continental cuisine make this small cottage in Ocean Beach a fantastic place for a relaxing dinner.

CORONADO

Azzura Point
4000 Coronado Bay Road
619.424.4477
Exquisite panoramic views of the bay complement seasonal California cuisine at this fine dining restaurant located in the luxurious Loews’ Coronado Bay Resort.

Coronado Boathouse 1887
1701 Strandway
619.435.0155
Superb steak and fresh seafood coupled with incredible views of downtown San Diego.

Il Fornaio
1333 First St.
619.437.4911
Don’t get too attached—Il Fornaio changes its regional menu every two weeks to feature a different Italian region.

Peohe’s
1201 First St.
619.437.4474
Fine Polynesian dining featuring on–the–water views and a warm elegant ambience. For dessert, the mouthwatering hot chocolate lava cake is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Primavera
932 Orange Ave.
619.435.0454
Enjoy unforgettable Northern Italian cuisine in a luxurious atmosphere any night of the week.

DOWNTOWN & THE GASLAMP

Acqua Al 2
322 Fifth Ave.
619.230.0382
Enjoy excellent Tuscan cuisine identical to Florence’s own Acqua Al 2–the original restaurant in Italy–inside or on the charming outdoor patio.

Aubergine on Fourth
500 Fourth Ave.
619.232.8100
A favorite downtown destination, this hot spot features creative cuisine in a surreal and symmetrical environment, where the entrées are as impressive as they are delicious.

Bandar & Bandar Grille
825 Fourth Ave.
619.238.0101
Sophisticated and satisfying, the menu offers fine Persian cuisine, making this an excellent spot for any occasion.

Bertrand At Mister A’s
2550 Fifth Ave.
619.239.1377
Go straight to the top for excellent American–Mediterranean dishes coupled with unparalleled views of the San Diego skyline.

Blue Ginger Fine Chinese Cuisine
729 Fourth Ave.
619.888.0007
One of the only restaurants in San Diego to offer such authentic renditions of Mandarin and Chinese fare.

Blue Point Coastal Cuisine
565 Fifth Ave.
619.233.6623
Delectable seafood dishes and a traditional oyster bar set this fine dining experience apart from the rest.

Bondi
333 Fifth Avenue
619.615.5054
The authentic Australian bar and kitchen serves region.specific dishes in a casual and zestful atmosphere.

Candelas
416 Third Ave.
619.702.4455
Contemporary Mexican nouvelle cuisine mixed with a sophisticated ambience make this a great place to eat any night of the week.

Dakota Grill and Spirits
901 Fifth Ave.
619.234.5554
Mesquite–grilled steaks and fresh seafood with a Southwestern flair in a casual&upscale atmosphere.

Dobson’s
956 Broadway Circle
619.231.6771
California cuisine with a touch of Italian, French, Spanish and Asian influences makes this cozy restaurant a great place to eat.

Galileo 101
100 Harbor Drive, Suite 101
619.702.7101
Monthly fashion shows and an upscale nightclub set this delicious Italian restaurant apart from all others.

The Gaslamp Strip Club
340 Fifth Ave.
619.231.3140
You must be 21 to get into this grill–your–own–steak and martini lounge located a convenient two blocks from Petco Park.

Georges on Fifth
835 Fifth Ave.
619.702.0444
Located in the Gaslamp Quarter’ss most photographed building and former home of Wyatt Earp’ss gambling hall and saloon. Serving San Diego’ss finest PRIME-certified Angus, USDA PRIME, KOLBY beef, along with fresh seafood. Choose from an award–winning wine list. Also featuring Grammy–nominated artist Tom Barabas on piano.

Greystone
658 Fifth Ave.
619.232.0225
Prime-aged meat, seafood and pasta with an extensive selection of premium wines in an atmosphere of casual elegance.

The Guild
1805 Newton Ave.
619.564.7584
The unique and innovative small-plate menu includes contemporary global cuisine, from the Unexpected Greek Salad to Kobe Beef Sliders.

Le Fontainebleau
1055 Second Ave.
619.557.3655
Enjoy contemporary French–California cuisine in the elegant Westgate Hotel. On Fridays, enjoy a spectacular seafood soiree—including lobster, caviar and made.to.order sushi.

Lou & Mickey’s
224 Fifth Ave.
619.237.4900
For famous steaks, choice seafood and exotic drinks, hit this downtown hangout any day of the week.

McCormick & Schmick’s
675 L St.
619.645.6545
Located in the Omni Hotel and connected via skybridge to Petco Park, this hip downtown spot will inspire you with its creative environment and satisfy you with its selection of fresh seafood.

Mr. Tiki Mai Tai Lounge
801 Fifth Ave.
619.233.1183
Pacific Island cuisine with a Poke & Sushi Bar featuring exotic cocktails in a fun late–night lounge atmosphere.

Morton’s of Chicago
285 J St.
619.696.3369
This classic steakhouse located at the Harbor Club is a superior venue for that special dinner for two, or for 20.

Osetra
904 Fifth Ave.
619.239.1800
Enjoy delicious seafood while watching wine angels retrieve bottles of wine from the three–story showcase wine tower.

RA Sushi
474 Broadway
619.321.0021
There’s never a dull moment in this stimulating atmosphere, where you can cut loose with friends and try the signature Viva Las Vegas roll.

Rainwater’s on Kettner
1202 Kettner Blvd.
619.233.5757
This Eastern–style chop house features fresh seafood from around the world, as well as other wonderful dishes and more than 1,600 wines.

Royal India
329 Market St.
619.269.9999
This new addition to the exotic downtown dining landscape features recipes handed down through generations, full of authentic flavors and creative combinations.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House
1355 N. Harbor Drive
619.233.1422
This all–American steakhouse also offers plenty of seafood selections and romantic views of the bay.

Sally’s
1 Market Place
619.358.6740
Amazing views of the Embarcadero accentuate succulent seafood and delectable drinks.

Star of the Sea
1360 N. Harbor Drive
619.232.7408
Elegant atmosphere with breathtaking views and a sensational seasonal menu featuring Coastal cuisine.

Stingaree
454 Sixth Ave.
619.544.9500
Located in a historic warehouse in the once taboo Red Light district, Stingaree is a state-of-the-art restaurant, nightclub, and event center. Also features a floor-to-ceiling waterfall, rooftop cabanas, fire pit, and a VIP lounge.

Trattoria La Strada
702 Fifth Ave.
619.239.3400
Outstanding Northern and Southern Italian cuisine featuring an extensive wine list and live music–making the perfect dining/entertainment experience.

Trattoria Mare & Monti
644 Fifth Ave.
619.235.8144
A stylish atmosphere complements a magnificent Mediterranean and Northern Italian menu.

LA JOLLA

A.R. Valentien
11480 N. Torrey Pines Road
858.777.6635
Dine on fresh regional cuisine in an elegant timbered room, overlooking the 18th hole of the Torrey Pines golf course.

Azul La Jolla
1250 Prospect St.
858.454.9616
California cuisine coupled with panoramic views of the Pacific. Don’t miss half–price tapas and drink specials at happy hour every day from 4 to 7 p.m.

Cendio
909 Prospect Street
858.454.9664
Executive Chef Diane Stopford has designed plates using native ingredients, spices and authentic recipes from Latin and South America and the Caribbean and combined them with the flavors of California coastal cuisine.

Clay’s of La Jolla
7955 La Jolla Shores Drive
858.551.3620
This California bistro with a twist sits atop the Hotel La Jolla and has sweeping ocean views and live entertainment Wednesday through Sunday.

Crab Catcher
1298 Prospect St.
858.454.9587
Innovative Pacific Rim dishes and the freshest fish truly make lunch or dinner by the water a fine dining experience.

Fresh
1044 Wall St.
858.551.7575
Top quality seafood and fresh local ingredients, great wines and petit offerings in a chic indoor–outdoor setting keep Fresh a favorite. Serving lunch and dinner.

George’s At The Cove
1250 Prospect St.
858.454.4244
The recently redesigned California Modern offers fresh, seasonal, local ingredients in which "California Cuisine" is influenced by different cultures. The wine list has been expanded, featuring a new selection of International wines.

Jack’s
7863 Girard Ave.
858.456.8111
Jack’s Grille and Wine Bar offers contemporary, casual cuisine, signature cocktails and a large variety of wines by the glass. Enjoy live entertainment in the Wine Bar.

La Valencia Hotel
1132 Prospect St.
858.454.0771
Choose from three restaurants in the luxurious La Valencia Hotel–enjoy French cuisine in the 10th–floor sky room, dine on seafood and steak in the Mediterranean room, or feast on generous portions of grilled items at the Whaling Bar and Grill.

Marine Room
2000 Spindrift Drive
858.459.7222
Right on the La Jolla Shores, romantic views and enticing coastal cuisine with a French twist will make for one unforgettable evening.

Nine–Ten
910 Prospect St.
858.729.5395
Enjoy evolving California cuisine and clear ocean views from the back terrace.

Roppongi
875 Prospect St.
858.551.5252
Dine alfresco on the outdoor patio next to the calming fountain or inviting fireplace, and enjoy superb Asian, Pacific Rim and seafood cuisine.

Roy’s
8670 Genessee Ave.
858.455.1616
Offers innovative Hawaiian fusion cuisine: the marriage of local ingredients, European sauces and bold Asian spices, with a focus on fresh seafood.

Tapenade
7612 Fay Ave.
858.551.7500
Provencal Mediterranean and Southern French cuisine featuring delicious specialties, such as wild mushroom ravioli.

Top O’ the Cove
1216 Prospect St.
858.454.7779
Enjoy continental entrees–downstairs, where you can sit by the fire and enjoy live music, or upstairs with ocean views.

Trattoria Acqua
1298 Prospect St.
858.454.0709
Overlooking La Jolla Cove, the Pacific Ocean forms a beautiful backdrop for this Mediterranean style dining experience featuring Northern Italian cuisine.

LITTLE ITALY

Indigo Grill
1536 India St.
619.234.6802
The restaurant boasts exemplary service and revolutionary food spanning from the Pacific Northwest to Southern Mexico.

Po Pazzo
1917 India St.
619.238.1917
This steakhouse with an Italian twist offers extraordinary continental cuisine and an extensive wine list that is sure to please your palate.

Vincenzo Ristorante Italiano
1702 India St.
619.702.6180
Gourmet regional Italian cuisine with an emphasis on fresh seafood.

KENSINGTON

Bleu Boheme
4090 Adams Avenue
619.255.4167
From the seaside village of Marseille to the lights of Paris the cuisine takes you on a tour across France. The wine list offers over twelve pages of wine selections for your enjoyment.

 

NORTH COUNTY COASTAL

Addison
5200 Grand Del Mar Way
858.314.1900
Local ingredients combined with Mediterranean influences, and an eclectic wine selection, make for a memorable dining experience at The Grand Del Mar’s signature restaurant.

Arterra
11966 El Camino Real
858.523.1700
A comfortable, yet elegant environment complements American dishes and an extensive wine list.

Bellefleur Winery & Restaurant
5610 Paseo Del Norte, Suite 100B
760.603.1919
Sip wine on the romantic patio, or relax inside while you dine on California cuisine creations and daily chef’s specials.

Blanca
437 S. Coast Highway 101
858.792.0072
Modern California and French cuisine with an emphasis on seasonal and local ingredients in an elegant dining room.

Delicias
6106 Paseo Delicias
858.756.8000
Enjoy traditional California cuisine in an intimate and romantic atmosphere.

En Fuego
1342 Camino Del Mar
858.792.6551
Traditional Mexican dishes and fresh seafood in a "South of the Border" atmosphere.

Firenze Trattoria
162 S. Rancho Santa Fe Road
760.944.9000
Multiregional Italian cuisine famed for its infusion of fresh, fragrant ingredients. Try a sample from the exceptional wine list while enjoying the private dining room.

J. Taylor’s of Del Mar
1540 Camino Del Mar
858.793.6460
Choose from an eclectic menu serving American cuisine with a mix of Mediterranean, Pacific and Southwest influences.

Jake’s Del Mar
1660 Coast Blvd.
858.755.2002
A classic waterfront grill with great lounge tables and amazing ocean views, specializing in steak and seafood.

Legends California Bistro
2100 Costa Del Mar
760.438.9111
Enjoy California cuisine from a seasonal menu at this elegant bistro where you can dine on the patio overlooking rolling hills.

Los Cabos
12955 El Camino Real
858.792.2226
Enjoy healthy Mexican food, and splurge on an enormous Cadillac margarita.

MARKET Restaurant + Bar
3702 Via de la Valle
858.523.0007
Carl Schroeder (formerly of Arterra Restaurant) brings his farm.fresh, "California Modern" fare to MARKET Restaurant + Bar. Restaurateur Terryl Gavre has designed a clean, contemporary dining room worthy of Schroeder’s stellar cuisine.

Meritage
897 S. Coast Hwy 101
760.634.3350
Enjoy California cuisine complemented by more than 100 martinis to choose from on Thursdays, and 50 percent off of all bottles and wines on Mondays and Wednesdays.

Mille Fleurs
6009 Paseo Delicias
858.756.3085
Mille Fleurs recently reopened after a major facelift. The new restaurant offers a more extended menu and a bar menu from 3.11 p.m. daily.

Pacific Coast Grill
437 S. Coast Hwy 101
858.794.4632
Classic Pacific cuisine will have you savoring every bite. To quench your thirst, try the signature creation–a blood orange cosmopolitan.

Pacifica Del Mar
1555 Camino Del Mar
858.792.0476
An excellent spot for any occasion, featuring creative coastal cuisine: fresh seafood, steak and pasta.

Pamplemousse Grille
514 Via de la Valle, Suite 100
858.792.9090
Superb Continental French cuisine with a California flair. For something uniquely delicious, try the lobster ravioli appetizer.

The Poseidon Restaurant
1670 Coast Blvd.
858.755.9345
Exquisite American cuisine specializing in fresh seafood and elegant fireside or amazing beachside dining.

Robbie’s
530 North Coast Highway 101
760.634.2365
In Vigilucci’s tradition, Robbie’s is an authentic steakhouse grille featuring open beam ceilings, a mahogany long bar and a ceiling–to–floor fireplace. Enjoy a burger and beer while watching the game or a seafood dinner with live entertainment.

Sbicca
215 15th St.
858.481.1001
A unique dining experience offering contemporary American cuisine. Check out the fantastic wine selection and ocean views.

Vigilucci’s Cucina Italiana
2943 State St.
760.434.2500
In downtown Carlsbad, this is the spot for a quiet night out to enjoy fabulous food and award-winning service.

Vigilucci’s Osteria
608 Mission Avenue
760.966.1203
The latest addition to the Vigilucci’s family of restaurants, Osteria serves fine Italian cuisine and features romantic décor in the quaint seaside community of Oceanside.

Vigilucci’s Ristorante & Pizzeria
534 N. Coast Highway 101
760.634.6753
This ristorante and pizzeria features a ceiling.to.floor stone pizza oven, full bar, private patio and private dining room.

Vigilucci’s Seafood & Steakhouse
3878 Carlsbad Blvd.
760.434.2580
Enjoy breathtaking views of the sunset and sea while chefs prepare fine steak and seafood. Check out the live music Thursday through Sunday.

Vigilucci’s Trattoria Italiana
505 S. Coast Highway 101
760.942.7332
Enjoy traditional Italian cuisine and an extensive wine list partnered with flawless ambience.

Wild Note Café
143 S. Cedros Ave.
858.720.9000
A fun and friendly atmosphere with excellent California cuisine selections.

NORTH COUNTY INLAND

Bernardo’s Restaurant
12457 Rancho Bernardo Road
858.487.7171
Enjoy California French cuisine fireside in the dining room, or out on the patio.

El Bizcocho
17550 Bernardo Oaks Drive
858.675.8500
This Old World mission.style restaurant is located in Rancho Bernardo Inn and features classic French cuisine.

The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe
5951 Linea del Cielo
858.756.1131
Enjoy excellent American cuisine in the quaint library, charming dining room, or lovely outdoor patio.

French Market Grille
15717 Bernardo Heights Parkway
858.485.8055
Mediterranean and Country French cuisine with delicacies like lamb shank cassoulet, salmon papillote and bouillabaisse.

La Costa Resort & Spa
2100 Costa del Mar
760.438.9111
Try California bistro at Legends, or try the Blue Fire Grill, also located at La Costa, where you can enjoy California fusion cuisine.

Rancho Valencia
5921 Valencia Circle
858.759.6216
California French cuisine with Mediterranean and European influences. Ingredients are homegrown in California, and add a distinctive local flair.

UNIVERSITY TOWN CENTER & VICINITY

Blue Coral Seafood & Spirits
8990 University Center Lane
The Aventine Center
858.453.2583
One of San Diego’s hottest new restaurants recently unveiled a Sunday Prix Fixe Fins menu. This new menu provides diners a great way to sample a variety of the restaurant’s delectable dishes.

Café Japengo
8960 University Center Lane
858.450.3355
Combining Japanese and Western flavors, the incredible sushi and exotic Asian dishes will have you coming back for more.

Donovan’s Steak & Chop House
4340 La Jolla Village Drive
858.450.6666
Enjoy superb steaks and an extensive selection of wines at this hip hangout with a modern vibe.

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
8970 University Center Lane
858.535.0078
Serving traditional steakhouse cuisine in a modern atmosphere. Lively music and a superb wine list set this progressive steakhouse apart from the rest.

Harry’s Bar and American Grill
4370 La Jolla Village Drive
858.373.1252
Enjoy excellent Bellinis and a mix of Northern Italian and American cuisine.

Tutto Mare Ristorante
4365 Executive Drive
858.597.1188
Tutto Mare, meaning "All from the Sea," is an authentic Italian restaurant specializing in seafood and homemade pasta with a wine list featuring an extensive selection of California and Italian wines.

cover Advertise Subscribe