The Hidden Gem Harry’s Bar and American Grill

Nestled in a corporate building away from the busy streets and behind a subtle hill it is possible to find a hidden gem that is not overloaded with long lines and hurried staff. Harry’s Bar and Grill offers Italian and American cuisine with a touch of old world class. From the plush wicker chairs to the hardwood walls, you will find luxury within its decor. Located across the street from the UTC mall it is a perfect little get-a-way for lunch or dinner.

Harry’s Bar and American Grill is well known for the business lunches. The business crowd comes in droves. Salads and Appetizers are for $8.00 to $12.00 with a variety of styles and tastes.  For example, Carpaccio with sliced raw beef, light mustard sauce, capers, arugula & shaved parmesan for $12.00 or something simple like Insalata Cia with Romaine, tomatoes, onions, artichokes, mushrooms, salami, parmesan & provolone cheese, creamy vinaigrette  for $9.00. Bowls of soup for around $6.00 are also available.

Lunch specials range from $18 to $24 with specialty items such as a Lobster Burger or something simple like Hamburgers Harrys. Supper ranges from $18 to $34 for most items on the menu. Many items from Scampi to a New York Strip steak is available for purchase. Their grill is their trademarked draw for customers and a central method of cooking at the restaurant. They provide a nice variety on their menu.

Seating includes indoor, patio, booth, bar, and table. The age range is generally 50 years old and upwards and dressed casual professional. In the background is light music on Saturday nights, which does not overpower the conversation. Providing such music adds a level of entertainment to the overall ambiance. It may prolong customers stay that leads to additional purchases or draw in some customers looking for light entertainment.

Wait staff is friendly and do not take long to serve the customers their fist order or their food. A breadbasket is promptly brought with a couple of different styles which allows for some quick satisfaction from the uncomfortable nature of hunger. Price is in the high end range but matches the quality of the food and overall décor of the place. Best dinning times are between 6:00pm and 8:00 pm. By 10:00 p.m. the place becomes sparse.

Harry’s Bar and American Grill

4370 La Jolla Village Dr #150  

San Diego, CA 92122
(858) 373-1252

http://harryslajolla.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