An Encinitas twist on a classic deli at Ernie’s Craft Deli & Wine Bar
Given that I grew up surrounded by classic, old-school delis in the Detroit area, I have somewhat of a Pavlovian response when someone mentions the...
Lick the Plate
Chef Bachelier strikes again with Chick & Hawk in Leucadia
After five years of speculation, pop-ups, skater-only events, soft openings, and hype the likes I’ve not seen around a restaurant in these parts, Chick &...
Artist’s book celebrates Tempchin’s 13-year run at Calypso in Leucadia
I was approached a few months ago by local artist Tracy Sabin, who was putting together a book, “Tuesday Nights at the Calypso: A Decade...
Lutchi and Mary: Authentic Filipino food in San Marcos
Given the plethora of culinary options in coastal North County, with more restaurants opening each week, it seems I do get caught up in “the...
Johnny Rad’z Pizza lands in Leucadia
I’ll start this feature with a gesture of gratitude that the former Pandora’s Pizza spot on Coast Highway and Leucadia Boulevard is back to being...
New Wave Bagel lands in coastal Encinitas
If you have followed my plate licking adventures over the years, you are probably aware that I have a bit of an obsession with bagels...
Leu Leu captures the essence of Leucadia
My approach to hot new trendy restaurants with Lick the Plate has always been to let the hype subside a bit, then make a couple...
Everingham Bros. Bait Co. — Fueling San Diego’s sportfishing community for 74 years
I was preparing to embark on one of my regular Boundless Boat Charters fishing trips with Captain Mark Mihelich recently, when conversation turned to what...
The Henry in Carlsbad delivers on every level
I must admit that when the J. Crew store left The Forum Carlsbad, my reasons for regular visits to the “shopping and lifestyle hub,” as...
Mahalo to Breakers Café, Bar & Grill in Encinitas
In the 17 years I’ve been writing this column, I can’t recall more buzz around a restaurant opening than what’s happening with Breakers Café, Bar...
Coastal comfort at Rustic Root in Solana Beach
Wondering what the hottest new restaurant is in coastal North County? Well, based on the full house every night and the stellar reviews on the...
Lick the Plate’s guilty pleasures
Given all the great food I’ve experienced over the years via my Lick the Plate column and radio show, I still get the occasional desire...
Mustard elevated with Little Zing Danish Mustard Sauce
My Sunday bike ride to the Leucadia Farmers Market is still one of the highlights of my week. Besides my regular purchases, I’m always on...
Another solid bagel option at Inglourious Bagels in Carlsbad
When I wrote “Joy of Bagels” in 2022, a roundup of the best bagel options in North County, Inglourious Bagels had just opened and was...
Licking the plate of life: Remembering Bill Walton
Given the first anniversary of Bill Walton’s passing on May 27, I reflected on the man I was lucky enough to get to know, and...