Every once in a while a restaurant comes on to the scene and surprises you. Whether it is the excellent food, interesting décor or hip vibe, it is an exciting thing. So when I heard of a new chain restaurant coming to Fashion Valley in San Diego, I thought, “Oh boy, not another cookie cutter restaurant.”
But, True Food Kitchen, 7007 Friars Road, is anything but cookie cutter.
When I first arrived I was delighted to see not only a cool and organic atmosphere, but the place itself had a vibe that made you want to stay. So many of these chains can be cold and uninviting so I was thankful that this was my first impression and the surprises didn’t stop there.
The story behind this concept is one that I think everybody should know. Based on the anti-inflammatory diet created by Dr. Andrew Weil, the menu is designed to showcase healthy ingredients in a popular way. Now you don’t have to be a health nut to enjoy this place, but your body needs nutrients and what better way to get them than by eating something delicious.
The room itself has an organic feel. Thick wooden tables, brightly colored iron chairs and punches of lime green all over the place make you feel at home. The walls are loaded with baskets and wooden boxes. The bar’s center island is heaving with fresh fruits and vegetables, just waiting to be pureed into one of their very tasty drinks. Overall, the place is cozy.
An army of white coats stand in the open kitchen and center island dicing and slicing. I love this design of an open kitchen as it truly is open.
Headed by Executive Chef Nathan Coulon, the menu is clear, clean and concise offering only the freshest of fresh ingredients. Whether dining for brunch, lunch or dinner, I have yet to find a miss on the menu.
For starters the Albacore Escabeche ($12) was some of the freshest fish I have ever had. Topped with fresh citrus, avocado, cilantro and chili, the balance of tangy and spicy will knock your socks off.
All the salads are unique and have the option of adding chicken or grilled salmon. Hands down, my favorite is the Farmer’s Market ($12). Crisp kale and romaine lettuce is tossed with beets, broccoli, radish and avocado and served with a bright champagne vinaigrette. I think I might have had this salad a dozen times already.
Its first runner up is the Mediterranean Chopped ($10). Gorgeous cucumbers, olives and cherry tomatoes are tossed with the most incredible quinoa and feta cheese.
The entrées and pizza continue to be on a roll. Try the Wild Mushroom Pizza ($13) with roasted garlic and Tallegio cheese. Entrées are unbelievably tasty, as well as being healthy. The Seafood Caldo ($19) is loaded with thick chunks of sea bass and shrimp. Large leaves of collard greens and white beans all come together in the most amazing lime broth.
For the pasta lover, the Turkey Bolognese is a great twist on the iconic dish. Street Tacos come with your choice of Grass Fed Steak ($14) or Sustainable Sea Bass ($16). Red Chili Shrimp ($18) offer a bite of heat and spice and are a perfect marriage with the sesame noodles.
Now with all this great food, one would hope for some great drinks. Again, True Food Kitchen doesn’t disappoint and provides a full bar and a great list of freshly made non-alcoholic drinks.
You must try one or two – they are the best I have ever had. The Red Moon is refreshing with ruby grapefruit, yuzu, agave and soda. After those late club nights, try a Hangover Rx at brunch. Made with coconut water, pineapple and fresh squeezed orange juice, it certainly does the job.
I urge you to check this place out.
If you want a healthy dinner where you don’t need to run two extra miles the next day, this is the place.
After a night out on the town, do your body a favor and do a brunch.
Even though it is a mall destination restaurant, it truly is in a category all its own.
