Fresh Shell Fish at Crab Catchers in La Jolla

Crab Catchers provides premier steak and seafood.  It is a high end restaurant that matches the eloquence of their menu with a pristine view of the ocean. Sit inside under the open air, within the restaurant or on the patio listening to the wave’s crash upon the shore. One can expect to find three different atmospheres in a single establishment.

Ranked 4.5 out of 5 stars by 142 local and out-of-town visitors on opentable.net the experience matches the perception.  They are known for some of the freshest shell fish in the area. As prices for an individual range from $30 to $50 it can be beneficial to attend their Happy Hour.  “Our full bar features a Happy Hour from 3 - 9pm, with $3^.00 margaritas, domestic beers, champagne, half price on selected menu items and $2^.00 oyster shooters.”

During our visit we sat on the patio and ordered fish tacos, oysters, and calamari. The menu is small plate by nature. The restaurant is immaculately taken care of and the staff well trained on customer service expectations. The staff appears attentive to the overall speed of clean up and resetting. Overall it was a pleasant experience and worth repeating.

http://www.crabcatcher.com/Hours-Location

Poseidon in Del Mar-Beachfront Dining

Poseidon Restaurant in Del Mar provides a California beach atmosphere in an upscale environment. Visitors stroll along the oceanfront and stop in for lunch or cocktails. Watch the waves crawling up the sand as you dine in style.  A full service establishment with a spacious bar area, indoor dining, and open patio seating.

Known for both breakfast and dinner the establishment has gained a following among Del Mar residents. Breakfast retails for around $12 while supper is closer to $33. Mediterranean Seafood Linguini, Rack of Lamb and Mussels are just some of their main attractions. If you have money to burn, look toward the lobster.

If you are like me and on a budget, you can opt for the happy hour. Items like a large half-pound burger with fries, mussels, and fish sliders are for $ 7.  Beverages are equally discounted off their happy hour menu. Four people engaging in leisurely conversation ate approximately 8 plates and six drinks for $110.  Don’t miss happy hour Monday - Friday 4:00pm - 6:30pm.

The restaurant is the right atmosphere for romantic dinners or beach strolling lunches.  Watch the sunset during the evening hours. The lighting is low and heating lamps keep the patio warm (must order from full menu). Service is quick and the staff friendly. Valet is easiest but is relatively cheap at the price of $4.   

Website

Peohe's the Premier Island Dining Experience

Peohe’s is a premier dining experience on Coronado Island. Known for their seafood and sushi they have made their way onto the Food Network. Coastal seating with great views of San Diego and the waterfront the restaurant attracts numerous visitors. You would be well advised to make reservations for the premium seats. Eating in the bar area is a little easier to obtain. 

The restaurant is accessible from both land and sea (much like their menu) with boaters finding a comfortable place to park for a while. Seats are in semi-circle patterns to create a more private atmosphere. The lights are low which further highlights the bay and outdoors. There is plenty of shopping in the area so you may want to schedule extra time to browse. 

 

The best deals are during their happy hour Monday thru Friday from 3:00-6:30 PM with $7 martinis, $6 cocktails, $5 glasses of wine, $4 imported bears and $3 domestics.  Outside  of the happy hour the prices are more normalized with the quality of the atmosphere. The average price per plate is around $33, appetizers $15, and wine around $10. 

It is an upscale atmosphere with waterfalls, well arranged tables, sushi bar, and bay window seating. If you are seeking to take someone out on a date or hosting relatives from out of town this restaurant is probably for you. They will enjoy the atmosphere, shopping, and have a great view of San Diego.  Have a drink on the deck while you watch the boats!

http://www.peohes.com/

Red Tracton: Meat Lover's Paradise in Solana Beach

The Red Tracton is a full service steakhouse with 1950’s old world charm. Immediately upon leaving valet you will notice that history with the plaques, pictures, and horse racing paraphernalia through time dotting the walls. When compared to many of the restaurants in the area Red Tracton is a meat lover’s heaven. The meat is so fresh and marbled that you swear you can hear a cowbell just a few minutes before the food is served.  With hefty proportions and a nostalgic old world servicescape you are not likely to be disappointed with your experience.

The restaurant offers a nice bar, setting arrangements and light D.J. music on Wednesdays and Saturdays. At the time I went on Saturday evening there was a full bar with a few people dancing to soft rock and golden oldies genre music. On non D.J. nights there is piano music to fill the background air to entertain the guests. The bar area and dining area are separate with sound proof glass to deaden the noise so patrons can talk without straining. 

Sirloin Steak

Red Tracton offers a number of comfortable seating arrangements that includes booths as well as small  and large tables for parties. If you need an even larger space you can book the Triple Crown room which offers seating for up to 60 people. This is generally reserved for special events and parties. The indoor patio room also offers a nice selection for those who want a little sun.

Jumbo Shrimp

They offer an extensive wine list with approximately 407 different varieties. White, red, sparkling, merlot, meritage, zinfandel, cabernet and special blends are some of the many available for purchase. Glass prices range from $9 to $13 with other expensive prices available on vintage. The wine offering is appears to be a significant attraction for locals. 

Red Tracton’s offers an American style cuisine that includes specialties such as mustard-crusted catfish, jumbo shrimp, meatloaf, lobster sandwich, sirloin steak and other delicacies. Lunch ranges between $13 to $17 while dinner ranging from $25 to $50 in price. The quality of the food is its best attribute with each plate being meticulously put together with the finest ingredients.

The restaurant is ranked between 3.5 and 5 stars making it a well-liked place among patrons. The reviews indicate that it is a superb place for steaks or seafood.  Additional comments include friendly and speedy service that maintains a regular return group of return customers.  The quality of the food matches the price. 

Red Tracton would be a great place for dinner and drinks after a race, on the weekends or for special occasions. The bar and appetizers draws its own distinct crowd who want to down a night cap and listen to the music. Ages are generally 45 years and upwards. It would appear that many of the visitors are regular return customers who have a history with the establishment. See the menu below for additional information. 

Menu

Red Tracton

550 Via De La Valle

Solana Beach

CA 92075

 (858) 755-6600