Some New Eateries in Town

The economy is bad, retail stores are going out of business right and left, and dozens of new restaurants have opened in north county in the past few months. Go figure. Someone's got money. I thought it was interesting, and of course it gives me lots of new opportunites to go out to dinner. After all, I must do my research. So here are just a few of the many new places that have recently opened. I'll give you further feedback on them as I have a chance to visit them.

Opening soon in Carlsbad, in the center at the corner of Carlsbad Village Drive and Highway 101 (in the space formerly occupied by Mr. Peabody's) is Hodad's, the famous burger joint from Ocean Beach. Jeff, I know you'll be happy, and so will everyone else that doesn't get put off by the long lines and tries this place. I do not know the opening date, but keep your ears open.

In the Lumberyard, there is a new eatery called Lotus Cafe. It is located near the north end of the shopping center. One of my exercise friends has eaten there. It is health oriented, lots of sandwiches, wraps, smoothies. She said it was very good. It's a nice place to try if you're tired of San Tropez.

In the Bressi Ranch Center, with the new Trader Joe's and Stater Bros, try Board and Brew. They're from Del Mar, and make great sandwiches. They're big, so think about splitting.

In San Marcos, there is a brand new Pizza Nova (Hillcrest and Solana Beach locations also). This one is very contemporary, upscale yet still casual. The outside patio is great in summer. Their food is consistently good. I've been back twice since it opened.

Also in San Marcos is the new Spiritos. They used to be in the Carlsbad Village Center, sold the restaurant a few years ago, and now that their non competition clause has expired, they're open again. It's mostly pizza at Spiritos, very good, thin, pizza, but no atmosphere. They also have salads, pasta and desserts, but it really lacks atmosphere. It's off the 78 and Jefferson.

Just across from the Carlsbad Outlet Mall you will see two new free standing buildings under construction. One will house P.F. Changs (Chinese) and the other B.J.'s Restaurant. Both are chains, both good, both should be very busy when they open in a few months.

In the Poinsettia Shopping Center at Poinsettia and Avenida Encinas (Ralphs and Rite Aid are there), we are anxiously awaiting the opening of a new sushi restaurant,......This restaurant has been under construction for quite a while, but it now looks like it might open within a few weeks. You can never have too much sushi.

Finally, there are several new yogurt shops to satisfy your sweet tooth. In Encinitas, try Very Berry, at the corner of Highway 101 and D Street. It is self serve, and they charge by the ounce. It's like Yogurtland which I like so much. You select your yogurt and your toppings, with many fruit and sweets to choose from. Also new in Solana Beach is Deserted Island. I have not tried it yet and don't know anyone who has. It seems all of a sudden yogurt is "in" again. The new yogurts are more like sorbets, tart flavors and an icier texture. I like them very much.

So even though times are tough right now, plenty of people are investing plenty of money in new restaurants. With a 90% failure rate in the industry, it surprises me that so many investors are sticking their necks out. It just goes to show that there are always people willing to take risks. Give one our new restaurants a try. So much to choose from, you're sure to find something you like.