Recently Fran and I tried the new restaurant Crush, in Solana Beach, for lunch. Dining there was research for our Newcomers Luncheons that we are planning for the year. Our focus is on new restaurants in North County, so of course we had to try Crush, which has taken over the space formerly occupied by Pacific Coast Grill. PCG is moving up to Cardiff, and is still under construction. Pacific Coast Grill should open around the end of the year.
Crush opened a few months ago, serving dinner only, but has recently expanded to include lunch. On the Friday we were there, we had the restaurant to ourselves until about 12:45 when another couple walked in. I hope they get busier or they won't be open for lunch or dinner. I am told that their happy hour and dinner service is bustling, but they've got to improve the number of lunch time customers. I'd read reviews that said the service was spotty, and even though we were the only ones in the restaurant, they got part of the order wrong. Our waiter Adam, was excellent. A real professional. He gave us suggestions and really extended himself. If the rest of the employees are like Adam, they will be successful.
The food was delicious. We sampled several things, my favorite being the paparadelle bolognese, although everything was excellent. The sauce was delicious, with a small amount of fresh ricotta on top. We also ordered a fish sandwich, breaded and fried, served on a fresh bun with lettuce, tomato, tarter sauce, pickled onions and pickles. Fresh homemade potato chips were served on the side. This was a great sandwich. Our other entree was a meatball sandwich. This was absolutely excellent. Three big meatballs, sauce, melted provolone cheese, and fresh potato chips on the side. The sandwiches were $10 and $11, the pasta dish was $15. The most expensive thing we had was 2 diet cokes, at $3.50 each. I think this is very pricy for an item that costs them pennies. I would go for water next time.
The meal began with delicious Italian bread, with olive oil and thick, sweet balsamic vinegar. We ate it all. Other entrees included a burger and several salads. They have a buratta cheese salad and another salad with greens, veggies, bacon and gorgonzolla cheese. Many of the dinner entrees are available for lunch at a reduced price.
The family that owns Crush has another restaurant in Orange County that has been successful. This one will be too, if they get good managers with great people skills. Right now that is lacking, although Adam, our waiter, was outstanding.
The front outdoor patio is great for a large party. They have a table for 12 with a fire pit in the middle, that I can't wait to try with a group. Right now they have lots of business thanks to Del Mar Racing, so their test will come after Labor Day. I hope they market their restaurant well, because the food was really good and I'd like to see them make it. I'll be back for dinner soon.
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