1. Asia-Vous
City: Escondido, CA
Category: Restaurants
Telephone: (760) 747-5000
Address: 417 West Grand Avenue
Description: Chef Riko Bartolome’s creations bring diners from all over the county to his latest establishment in Escondido. His eclectic menu might feature crisp pork confit, veal sweetbreads with pineapple, pistachio-crusted duck breast, sea urchin risotto—you get the idea. Bartolome isn’t afraid to seek out unusual ingredients and combine them with flair. The dining room glows with a soft purple hue; fabrics and seating arrangements are designed so diners feel pampered and comfortable. Asia-Vous is perfect for dinner before a performance at the nearby Center for Performing Arts. Lunch is served Tuesday through Friday and dinner Tuesday through Saturday.
2. Lake Wohlford Cafe
City: Escondido, CA
Category: Restaurants
Telephone: (760) 749-2755
Address: 25484 Lake Wohlford Road
Description: You could call the decor at the Lake Wohlford Cafe “funky” and not be too far from the mark. The cafe is casual and makes you feel like it’s okay to have fun. The catfish dinner is a hit with anglers who’ve missed the bite on the lake. Burgers and fries and lots of American food are on the menu. It’s open Friday through Sunday.
3. Vincent’S Sirinos Restaurant
City: Escondido, CA
Category: Restaurants
Telephone: (760) 745-3835
Address: 113 West Grand Avenue
Description: Reservations are essential for dinner at this cozy dining room overseen by chef Vincent Grumel. The dining room is unassuming—some say uninspired—but any thoughts that this might be a dull place will end in a flash when you breathe in the fragrances coming from the kitchen, and ultimately onto your plate. Grumel’s specialty is duck, and diners rave about his Confit de Canard Grumel. Beef lovers can’t miss with the filet mignon with Stilton cheese and a merlot sauce, and the ravioli stuffed with veal is superb. If you’re not into meat, try the pastry Florentine, an overstuffed turnover bursting with spinach, Stilton cheese, and veggies. The eggplant ravioli is also a good option. Open for lunch Tuesday through Friday and dinner Tuesday through Sunday.