Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Isabel's Cantina

My brother in-law gave me the task of planning a surprise birthday for my lil' sis, Tish. I was stoked to take on the mission, and I immediately thought of Isabel's Cantina (IC), a steezy lounge style restaurant in Pacific Beach. I hadn't been to IC in a few years and remembered that I always liked their "interesting" food and the chill environment they produce. I don't know how, but I also had some sort of clue in my mind that they would be great to host a small private party, so I gave them a call.












In short, I called IC and after a little bit of phone tag, Isabel and I talked everything over. I gave her an ideal price that I thought everyone would be able to afford (in these slim times) and she went to work to put together a menu that would fill our tummies and fit our budget. Two days later the menu was emailed to me, I gave my feedback, and it was all good. She also mentioned the menu items would all be served "family style", and I was excited about that.












The whole of the night ya'll can see in the photo album. Bottom line is that my sister was surprised, and EVERYONE who attended was impressed with the work of Isabel and her staff. The food was super taste bud stimulating, the ambiance was stylish-ly comfortable, and the freakin flourless chocolate cake is too delicious to describe with my fingers and a keyboard. Of course I also have to mention that Kelly and the staff were very nice and worked hard to make things happen on a busy Saturday night. I guess my only disappointment is that we weren't able to meet Isabel herself, but maybe next time, and for breakfast. Coconut French toast will break your mouth!














P.S. The whole "Cantina" thing can throw peeps off, especially in SoCal. Isabel's Cantina is not an enchilada serving, mariachi playing mexican style restaurant. IC (to me) is a full fusion style restaurant that mixes flavors that aren't normally mixed. Isabel is a chef with an artistic view on food, and the kitchen is her studio in which she creates flavorful and edible sculptures.

P.S.S. My blogging skills are limited. It's late, I'm tired, and I don't know why the layout is all weird. I will sleep now, and I know you can still read the blog. Thanks for tolerating.

Link to photo album

Link to Isabel's Cantina

Isabel has a book you should buy