Rock n’ Jenny’s Italian Subs
Location: Far far away unfortunately, but you should still check it out 1044 W Valley Pkwy Escondido, Ca
Type of Food: Sandwiches
Price Range: $4.00-$10.00 per sub
Date Potential: Lunch Dates are ideal here
Now I know that for most of my previous blogs I have written about the local restaurants in the Riverside area. This one however, is for a restaurant called Rock and Jenny’s that I discovered while on a trip to San Diego. Now Rock and Jenny’s is located just north of San Diego in the city of Escondido, California. It is off the 15 freeway exit Valley Parkway.
Rock and Jenny’s is apparently one of the local favorites down that way and for good reason. Their subs are some of the most unique and tasty items that don’t come along very often.
Food:
Rock n’ Jenny’s features a collection of Italian sub sandwiches and also some pasta dishes. Now you may say what separates this sandwich shop from your local Subway? Well the answer is just about everything. To start off, their fresh baked sub rolls are flavorful and soft. The sandwich meat is sliced fresh and does not come “pre-packaged.” The most prominent thing that separates Rock and Jenny’s from the rest is their own Italian Dressing. This makes the sandwich! I kid you not, that you will have the hardest of times trying to find something that can compare to this dressing!
Atmosphere:
Rock n’ Jenny’s is only about as big as a Subway restaurant, but they also have seating available outside which would probably be your first choice considering the wonderful Escondido weather year round.
Price:
The prices range anywhere from $4-10 for a sandwich and chips and drink.
Date Potential:
This joint has a great lunch date potential, as you will surely impress whomever it is you are with. The atmosphere is loud and fun and will bring out plenty of good casual conversation.
Categories: Sandwhich Shop
Simple Simon’s Bakery and Bistro
Location: 3639 Main St Riverside, CA 92501, Next to the Mission Inn
Type of Food: Sandwiches
Price Range: A bit more expensive than Subway, expect to pay about $10 per sandwich
Date Potential: Perfect for a Lunch date
Simple Simon’s is truly a hidden treasure in Riverside. This hard to find little bakery and bistro has some of the most unique sandwiches around.
Located in the plaza right next to the Mission Inn, makes for a great atmosphere and a perfect location for outside seating. Keep in mind though this perfect little sandwich shop is open for breakfast and lunch, but closes by three in the afternoon.
Everything on the menu is fresh and made from scratch. Some of the particular noteworthy sandwiches are the grilled chicken and vegetarian.
The grilled chicken sandwich has some of the most flavorful and juiciest chicken every. Covered with a pesto sauce and all the extras, this is a mouth-watering, got to have one right now kind of sandwich.
The vegetarian sandwich is one of the freshest around. They have every vegetable you can think of to add into this scrumptious sandwich and a just what the doctor ordered kind of dill spread to make you want more!
I can’t forget to mention the cookies. These cookies are gigantic! My favorite has been the raisin and oatmeal, although the others look just as good. Watch out though, the chocolate chip cookie, does contain nuts.
Be aware of the lunch rush though, this is not a grab-and-go sandwich shop, the line tends to be out the door. My advice if you are pressed for time, is to call and order ahead.
This sandwich shop has great date potential, although not ideal for an impressive first date. The perfect date here would be a lunch date, something a bit quick and not too serious.
Categories: Sandwhich Shop
The Counter
“Custom Built Burgers”
Location: The Promenade Shops at Dos Lagos 2785 Cabot Drive Suite 110 Corona, Ca 92883
Type of Food: Good old American hamburgers, sort of!
Price Range: $8.00-$13.00 per burger
Date Potential: A lunch date here, might be fun
Website: www.thecounterburger.com
True to its name, The Counter, is a one-of-a kind hamburger restaurant that allows its guests to custom build their burgers. Guests are given a menu with five steps and are asked to mark down exactly what they want, starting with what kind of burger: beef, turkey, veggie, or grilled, chicken and the size: 1/3 lb., 2/3 lb., or 1 lb. You can also choose to have a burger in a bowl—build your burger without the bun. Next, you choose your cheese, and move on to select toppings and sauce. Finally, you choose the bun. I must say the choosing your toppings and sauces are not as easy as it sounds. The Counter offers 27 different toppings and 17 different sauces! I had a very difficult time even deciding if I wanted a hamburger or if I wanted to try the burger in a bowl.
I finally decided to go with the burger in a bowl. I had grilled chicken on a bed of mixed baby greens, with a ton of toppings such as avocados, roasted corn and black bean salsa, Bermuda red onions, chili, and tomatoes, all topped off with a southwestern Caesar sauce. It was quite delicious and a perfect meal on a hot day.
The décor of the The Counter is very inviting. The open restaurant and patio seating is perfect for summer. The Counter has even thought of the kids and offers a game corner where the Wii can entertain the little ones. Although I would not recommend taking a date here for a romantic dinner, it is a perfect spot for a lunch date or a luncheon with the gals.
Categories: BBQ · Grill · Sandwhich Shop
Urban Thai
Location: The Promenade Shops at Dos Lagos 2795 Cabot Drive Suite 170 Corona, Ca 92883
Type of Food: Thai
Price Range: Lunch—$7.00-$10.00 Dinner—about $25 per person
Date Potential: Nice, very Urban
I was actually very excited to try this brand new Thai restaurant in the shops at Dos Lagos unfortunately I was severely letdown. Urban Thai offers a great atmosphere, a very modern style of dining, and an ultra-chic lounge, but beyond its stunning appearance it is a complete disappointment when it comes to the food.
I began with Grilled Thai Chicken Salad—house mixed greens in lime dressing, priced at $9.25. The salad was just okay…nothing to write home about. The chicken was a bit thin, and kind of rubbery and there was not enough dressing on the salad.
Next, I ordered the Green Garden Rolls priced at $4.50. These weren’t all that great either, they weren’t rolled every tight and they fell apart in your hard. After the garden rolls weren’t so good, I was beginning to worry about the rest of my food. My hunch was that I was probably going to be unimpressed.
My hunch was correct, for the main entrée I had yellow curry with Tofu and Drunken Noodles with Tofu. Both were not very appetizing. The yellow curry was pretty watered down and the drunken noodles, were way too sweet for supposedly a spicy dish. Not only was the food a complete disappointed, but also it was way overpriced. The curry was $11.00 and the drunken noodles were $12.00. Altogether I paid $52.00 for this meal that was utterly unsatisfying.
My advice, save your money, don’t let the décor fool you, and if you are looking for great Thai food hit up Riverside Thai located on Magnolia and Pierce, in my opinion they are still the best in the business.
Categories: Thai Food
Tony’s Eatery
Location: Pierce Plaza, Pierce and Magnolia, Riverside, CA
Type of Food: Pizza and Pasta
Price Range: Cheap Pasta $7.00 Pizza $10.00
Date Potential: Not so much
I was in the mood for garlic bread, so I searched Italian restaurants on my phone navigator and Tony’s Eatery was only 1.1 miles away from where I was (I was at La Sierra University’s Library). As I pulled into the Pierce plaza, I was a bit worried about the decision I had made to eat a Tony’s Eatery, but the food and my experience definitely proved to be good.
Although Tony’s Eatery is somewhat of a decorator’s nightmare, this family-run Italian restaurant has some noteworthy dishes. The best part, the food is cheap and it is just down the street from the La Sierra University campus.
I decided I would try both the pasta, the pizza, and, of course, the garlic bread, since that is what I came for in the first place. The garlic bread was good, I wish it had a bit more garlic on it, but the bread was soft on the inside and crunchy on the outside, perfectly satisfying my craving for garlic bread. For the pasta course of my meal, I tried the Garlic Spaghetti—fresh garlic, olive oil, and Italian seasoning, all for the low price of $6.95. This dish was great, I could definitely say I am going to probably get that again. For the pizza entrée I tried the Garden Lover—cheese, mushrooms, green peppers, onions, tomatoes, and olives. Although the pizza did not have enough sauce on it, the vegetables were fresh and the crust was delicious. I think next I go, I will make sure I ask for extra sauce.
Tony’s Eatery is a great place to go with friends or possibly yourself, to grab some home cooked Italian food and to watch a game or two on their large screen TVs. I would definitely not recommend taking a date here; the not so impressive décor could be a total turn-off.
Categories: Italian
The Stinking Rose
“A Garlic Restaurant”
Location: 55 N. La Cienega, Beverly Hills, CA 90211
Type of Food: American-Italian
Price Range: about $25.00 per person
Date Potential: Impressive and unique, but you’ll smell like garlic for at least 2 days afterwards
Website: www.thestinkingrose.com
All you have to do is follow your nose to The Sticking Rose, where they “season their garlic with food.” This truly unique and entertaining dining experience will have you wanting to come back again and again. Although I have tried all along to you bring you local restaurants around the Riverside area, I absolutely have to tell you about this hidden treasure found in Beverly Hills and hope that it stirs up some curiosity and some of you may actually check it out.
As you arrive at The Stinking Rose and stop under the covered parking, a valet attendant opens your door and parks your car for you, I felt as though I had gone back in time and was visiting Hollywood in a different era. I actually had no idea what to expect and was completely blown away by the hospitality and décor The Stinking Rose has to offer.
Guests can enjoy treat after garlicky treat in any of the restaurant’s whimsical dining rooms. Garlic breads are strewn throughout the establishment and festive murals depict a garlic bulb’s view of Garllywood. I learned that there are at lest 2,635 bulbs of garlic, decorating every conceivable nook and cranny.
Not only is the restaurant a must see for décor reasons, the food is amazing too. I was a bit standoffish at first, at the thought of eating food with whole garlic gloves, but again I was fabulously surprised. I recommend starting out with the Bagna Calda—garlic soaking in a hot tub—this scrumptious appetizer is garlic cloves, oven-roasted in extra virgin olive oil and butter with a hint of anchovy. It’s a wonderful treat for spreading on their house-baked focaccia bread.
For the entrée, I went with the Neon Raviolis—filled with potato and cheese, topped with garlic basil Alfredo sauce. This is a marvelous dish for first timers, it’s not too intimidating and you pretty much know what to expect. Although the pasta is delicious, The Stinking Rose also offers fish, prime rib, chicken, lamb, etc. all cooked in a variety of ways and fantastic I am sure.
For desert, wouldn’t you know it; they have garlic ice cream available. Although this probably doesn’t sound too appetizing you absolutely have to try it, much to my surprise, it was pretty good.
So, follow your nose to The Stinking Rose, and have a stinking good time!
Categories: Italian
Jose’s Mexican Restaurant
Location: 3765 La Sierra Ave Riverside, Ca 92505
Type of Food: Mexican
Price Range: Cheap!
Date Potential: Not a first date, but friends and relationships are great.
Website: www.josesmexicanfood.com
Jose’s Mexican restaurant is located off of the 91 freeway on La Sierra Avenue. It is across the street from El Pollo Loco and Panda Express. Jose’s features dine-in style food at take-out/fast food prices.
Food:
The food at Jose’s is one of the best deals in the area. The funny thing you will realize is that Jose’s looks like a typical sit down and be served restaurant. This is not the case! Upon your arrival, you order at the counter, and then choose your seating. On the menu you will find many traditional Mexican items such as fajitas, burritos, tacos, and enchilada platters. After you order, you may help yourself to unlimited chips and salsa.
The food at Jose’s for the price is above average. Since you do not have server’s waiting on you, they are able to lower the cost of the food. I would compare the food on par with a restaurant such as Don Jose’s across the street from Jose’s, which is substantially more expensive.
Atmosphere:
Jose’s restaurant features a large dining area with booths and tables to accommodate at least 200 people. This is great on a slow day at Jose’s, because you will more than likely end up with a private section. The bright colors add to the Mexican feel and the salsa music is, of course, fitting for the carefree environment.
Service:
The service at Jose’s is above average. Once you order at the cashier, your food is brought to you by one of the server’s who also offers to bring you napkins and silverware. The timeliness of their service is very fast and you can expect your food on the table in as little as 5 minutes after you order.
Date Potential:
I am definitely a fan of bringing a date to Jose’s. However, this may not be suitable for a first date. In a relationship, this restaurant is very nice since the food is not expensive yet it provides a nice atmosphere to socialize and enjoy company.
Categories: Mexican
Pho Ha Vietnamese Restaurant
Location: 10185 Magnolia Ave Riverside, Ca
Type of Food: Vietnamese
Price Range: Very inexpensive
Date Potential: Great for a break with someone you know, not so much a first date though.
Pho Ha Vietnamese restaurant is located on Pierce Street across from the Tyler mall adjacent to the Wendy’s restaurant. Please be aware that there are many Vietnamese restaurants in the area that contain the names Pho, Ha, or both. This being said, please do not be confused with the other restaurants!
Food:
Pho Ha serves up some of the tastiest Vietnamese food in the area. The menu contains items such as fried rice, noodles, teriyaki beef and chicken, and the famous beef noodle soup called Pho. To the inexperienced eater, I recommend a spring roll appetizer, a fried rice dish, and the noodle soup with well done flank steak. Be careful when ordering your Pho some of the items on the menu vary and you might end up getting some unwanted “tripe” which is a type of fish ( most inexperienced eaters don’t particularly care for it ).
Atmosphere:
Pho Ha is very clean and friendly. You will be easily entertained; there are many televisions on the walls which broadcast the news or sports games. The green plants make this restaurant seem very earthy and clean.
Service:
The service at Pho Ha is probably its only downfall. Since most of the employees are Vietnamese, it might be a bit difficult trying to order or understand what they are saying. Although this void in communication proves a bit difficult, you will find that the service is very friendly and kind.
Date Potential:
Pho Ha is a great place for the adventurous couple. If you have never eaten Vietnamese you are missing out. It is also a great place to go during a study break, the environment is soothing and peaceful. The prices are also very reasonable. Expect to pay under $10 for a whole lot of food!
Categories: Vietnamese
Zip Sushi Fusion
Location: 2560 Tuscany Street Corona, Ca 92881
Type of Food: Sushi
Price Range: $4.00-$12.00 per item
Date Potential: Of Course!
Website: www.zipfusion.com
Zip Sushi is located in Corona in the new shopping center off of Cajalco Street. Zip serves traditional sushi in a modern upscale environment.
Food:
The location of Zip Sushi is very convenient for them for they are the only sushi restaurant nearby. This seeks to please those not wanting to eat at BJ’s Brewery, King’s Fish House, or Panera Bread which are close by. Even though Zip is the only sushi restaurant around, the sushi is tasty and definitely noteworthy. This however is a bit offset by the fact that their rolls are extremely large! It is funny because you want to eat it so bad, but it is hard to fit the whole thing in your mouth at once!
As far as their menu goes, they have pretty much everything that you would be accustomed to in your local sushi joint. The bar however goes above and beyond. The décor is very modern and would prove suitable for a night out on the town with a group of friends.
Atmosphere:
Zip’s atmosphere as stated above is very modern and “hip”. The pop music provides a fun and casual dining experience in an upscale venue. The décor is also very “feng shei” as one might say. The green plants provide great accents for the more abstract/modern design of the place.
Service:
The service at Zip is friendly; you will find that most of the servers including the sushi chefs are younger. It is clear they are trying to appeal to the mid twenties working professional.
Date Potential:
Zip sushi has great date potential. An even better thing to do would be to plan a night out with your date and several friends. Not only would you have a pleasant dining experience but then you could also relax at the bar and enjoy the “cool” environment. The area surrounding Zip is also a pleasant place to walk around there is many shops and also a movie theater very close by.
Categories: Japanese Food
Duane’s at the Mission Inn
Location: Mission Inn, Riverside Californa
Type of Food: Upscale Steakhouse
Price Range: Expensive, that’s all I can say
Date Potential: Oh-la-la
Website: www.missioninn.com
Duane’s is everything a steakhouse should be. It is one of the most upscale venues in the area and never seems to disappoint.
Food:
Duane’s menu is a mix between fine steaks, seafood, and the occasional poultry. This is by far the best restaurant in the area for steak. A piece of filet mignon will run you a good day’s work but will leave you smiling while paying the bill. If you order your meat rare at this restaurant it will come out rare. Not medium, not medium rare, rare! They take much pride in their ability to please their guests as their reputation would uphold.
The deserts at Duane’s are also spectacular. Enjoy a crème brule or piece of chocolate cake that will please even the highest of critics. Duane’s also boasts an extensive wine list that ranges from just under a hundred dollars to the priciest of wines for the connoisseur.
Atmosphere:
This restaurant ‘s atmosphere is about as fabulous as its food. It is dim-lit and peaceful. The dark wood tables and decor make you feel like one of high status. On your table you will also find more silverware than possibly useable. You won’t be left short of anything here. The area surrounding the restaurant is also very pleasant. After dinner take a tour of the Mission Inn’s beautiful architecture and floral effects.
Service:
The service at Duane’s is like having a personal assistant. I would not be surprised if the waiters would simply feed you your food like an infant if requested. Expect to have the table cleaned promptly after each course and constant checkups for drink refills or any other service your heart desires.
Date Potential:
If you want to impress your date, Duane’s is the place to go. Not only will you be astounded by the food you will find it quite romantic. I would not recommend taking a first date here since you can expect to spend a minimum of two hundred dollars for three courses, and lets face it, sometimes first dates don’t always make it to the second.
Categories: Fine Dining · Steakhouse · Surf or Turf
