Saturday, December 17, 2022

Juniper & Ivy

 


A few months ago we celebrated  my birthday at Juniper & Ivy in San Diego. They describe their menu as refined American and boast a James Beard nominated chef, Anthony Wells. The restaurant located inside what was an abandoned warehouse exposes a wood beam and metal pipe ceiling that gives it a swanky industrial feel. It was packed and lively on an early Saturday evening, reservations are strongly encouraged. The entire staff was friendly and attentive and the food was amazing. 

This was their menu on an evening back in August. I checked the website and it does differ based on the fresh ingredients available. The current sample menu looks just as amazing.  The menu consisted of bites, pantry, small plates and plates. Basically one bite appetizers, small appetizers, sharable appetizers and entrees. They also have some signature cocktails. The cocktails were really good. 

I drank this pretty thing, but unfortunately I can't recall what it was called. Maybe, I shouldn't have waited months to post my review. 

Chris and I decided to share some hors d'oeuvres. We started with the Deviled Eggs. 

These little guys were made with smoked sturgeon, caviar, and lemon zest. These are not your typical deviled eggs. They are made with a meringue and yolk mousse and put together to appear as a deviled egg. These are one bite delicacies that I could have very easily continued to pop into my mouth until full. Sooo good...

We also had this chicken liver mousse The miso cookies were the best part with their salty chewiness. I am not a big fan of chicken liver mousse but the strawberry preserves and fresh berries on top, spread onto these tasty cookies resembled a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.  


The Carne Asada Crudo Toast was my favorite. Beef tartar, spiced crema, cotija, green onion and an egg yolk jam on top of a perfectly toasted piece of bread was mouthwatering. 

These cooked oysters were delicious although I do prefer a nice briny raw oyster instead. 


The scallops were fresh and a nice citrus flavor with some heirloom tomatoes. Look how pretty this plate is!


Again, I don't recall what this dish was just that it was some sort of cheese filled raviolo with a sauce made with fresh corn. I know my description doesn't give it justice because I do recall it was another amazing bite. 

Finally we decided to try an entrée size plate and share it.


This was a perfectly cooked and seasoned hangar steak served with blistered shishito peppers and it tasted divine. 

You really should check out Juniper & Ivy's everchanging menu, reservations are strongly recommended. I am going to request to go back the next chance again, hopefully I won't have to wait till my next birthday. 

2228 Kettner Blvd. 
San Diego, CA 92101
619-269-9036 

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