Detour Salon opened their doors shortly after I arrived in Encinitas and has always, as owner Jarrod Harms put it “been at the intersection of style and whimsy since 1998.”
They are actually located in the heart of Encinitas on the corner of Coast Highway and E Street. What started as a small alternative hair venture has evolved into a style authority in San Diego with two locations and a fully functioning trendy clothing and accessories boutique.
Their approach is based in providing awesome customer service paired with world-class trained hairdressers. I wanted to know where these cutting-edge stylists eat around town so I rounded up a group of them for this week’s Lick the Plate column.
Jo White is fan of Johnny Mananas in downtown Oceanside. Jo had this to say about one of her favorites: “Every time I’ve been there I have not had anything short of excellent service and amazing food. Everything is fresh and the staff is always so pleasant. There is also a little hidden surprise of a back patio with a bar. You would never guess it with the small storefront though. During peak times there may be a bit of a wait but I guarantee that the chicken tacos that I always get are worth it! I love supporting small businesses that use local produce and that make their food fresh daily.” Nice tip Jo, I’ll put that place on the LTP list.
“Don’s Country Kitchen in Oceanside is hands down one of the best places to spend a Sunday morning,” said Michelle Carsner. She likes their super friendly hostess who is not to be missed with her fabulous earrings and flaming red spikey hair a la David Bowie in the ‘70s! “The food here is not the typical California macrobiotic, organic, sawdust,” said Michelle. “This is the place where they garnish their Bloody Mary’s with bacon. The omelets are fluffy and will soak up whatever ills you plagued yourself with the night before. This is the place that you go to when you are feeling a little homesick and need some of that traditional breakfast love.” I like your style Michelle, a true plate licker I’m sure!
Owner Jarrod Harms is big on Panca Peruvian Cuisine & Rotisserie in Oceanside. “Panca makes me feel good in more ways than one as it’s always fresh, with extremely flavorful and healthy options, or hearty and comfort food dishes that talk to your soul. The owners and staff always greet us with a smile, by name and not only know our favorite dishes, but our palates also, and have suggestions for trying something new. My favorite dish is the aji de gallina. It’s an amazingly delicious, rich chicken dish made with a Parmesan and walnut cream, served over potatoes. A side of rice and Panca salad make it a memorable meal.” I’m loving all these new suggestions, thanks Jarrod.
When Matt Middleton is in inland Encinitas, he makes it a point to have a pit stop at his favorite North County eatery, Native Foods Café. “Not only is the food delicious and the portions hefty, but the staff always greet me with a smile and really care about the comfort of the patrons. Best yet, the menu is vegan and the meat substitutions are on point, so there’s something for everyone. Don’t take my word for it, go see it for yourself. This place checks every box in my opinion.” Definitely a place I need to revisit, vegan food non-vegans will like is how I put it if I recall.
Carissa Holmes takes us to Carmel Valley to one of her favorites Villa Capri. “Their menu is filled with traditional Italian dishes, with specials every day. The wine list is great as well, with a variety of choices. My absolute favorite is their cheese ravioli, so fresh and tasty. Everything always tastes so fresh, they never disappoint. It’s a great family atmosphere and I’d highly recommend it.” Love this place, thanks Carissa!
Laura has been going to Sushi N Joy in Oceanside since she moved here in 2000 and it’s her favorite place to eat. “The portions are huge and the prices are the lowest I’ve experienced,” said Laura. “It’s small and tucked away, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in quality and service. The owner and chef Steve is always behind the bar, and with his wife Jamie in tow they share with you they’re freshest and best sushi you’ll find in North County, all in a laid back atmosphere.” Another new one for me.
East Village Asian diner in Encinitas is a top hangout for Joshua Gatie. “An awesome atmosphere paired with great music, killer food, and of course great beer. My go-to dish has to be the all mighty monk’s stone pot and the dynamite fries are on point as well, from their flavor to portion size to of course presentation. It’s a known fact that burritos are a San Diego staple and Mr. Lee’s BBQ pulled pork burrito is right at the top of the list along side any California burrito in my book. East Village is a must for anyone stopping through Encinitas.” I’ve been a fan for a long time Josh … thanks for the refresher.
Detour Salon is located at 594 S Coast Hwy 101 in Encinitas. Call (760) 634-1999 or visit detoursalon.com for more information.
Lick the Plate can now be heard on KPRi, 102.1 FM Monday – Friday during at 4:10 and 7:10 p.m. David Boylan is founder of Artichoke Creative and Artichoke Apparel, an Encinitas based marketing firm and clothing line. Reach him at [email protected] or (858) 395-6905.
