Food Observations
A blog for eaters
Truluck’s
Truluck’s delivered a truly phenomenal dining experience! Everything from start to finish was a complete standout; from the service, to the food and the absolutely stunning atmosphere. Dining outside did not take away from anything at all. My wife and I ordered a number of dishes, drinks, etc. Highly recommended, although be prepared to open your wallet wide.
Cup of lobster bique was very good. A nice, velvety texture and elegantly presented. No discernible chunks of lobster but there were a few bits. Crab Louie Cocktail was delicious with a generous amount of crab. The remoulade was not as bold as I was expecting. It was really quite subtle. Miso Glazed Sea Bass was excellent. I don’t think I’ve ever been served such a thick portion of sea bass. It was perfectly cooked. It was served on a bed of crab fried rice which I found to be pretty unremarkable. Portion amount wasn’t quite enough. Might have been more noteworthy if I had tried it as a standalone side.
The Par Lounge
Outstanding Calamari appetizer at The Par Lounge in Ramona! Super delicious and artfully presented, I easily ate the whole thing. It’s adorned with beautifully blistered shishito peppers, roasted peanuts, fresh lime, etc. Includes sides of a tasty sweet chili sauce and a savory peanut sauce. A very nice Asian inspired spin on calamari that is not over the top.
Antonio’s Pizzeria
Probably one of the more stalwart restaurants on the island, Antonio’s is a good standby. The menu is quite expansive and would satify any tastes. The menus are literally huge in your hands. This has become our traditional last-day eating stop before boarding the boat back home. I’ve had a number of dishes here over the years and the food overall is just slightly above average in my opinion. With the current ‘rona outdoor seating situation, this place is actually a very good choice. Ample outdoor seating right on the water with stunning views. Only Antonio’s and The Bluewater next-door seem to have this seating benefit. Standout for me has to be their music. Really good tunes pumping in the background. Neil Diamond, Ray Charles, Alan Jackson, et al. YMMV, but I liked it.
Maggie’s Blue Rose
If I had to choose one favorite restaurant on the island, it would be Maggie’s Blue Rose! The menu here is fairly simple but very original. I’ve eaten at countless Mexican restaurants throughout SoCal and Maggie’s is an absolute standout. Their queso fundido with chorizo is excellent. Be warned, if you eat too much of it, it does sit pretty heavy in your system. I had to lay down the last time I ate it. Chips & salsa here are among the best on the island. Most recetly I tried the lobster enchiladas and they were exquisite. Highly recommended.
The outdoor seating is nicely done and well lit. They use an overflow patio area from the neighboring BrewHouse, plus beach I think. Service has always been great here when we visit. They’re not using their beautiful signature triangular plates right now it seems. My plate was a round, heavy plastic disposable thing. It didn’t really detract from anything other than the plate was not heated.
Catalina Coffee & Cookie Co.
Another one of our new regular visits while on Catalina Island is Catalina Coffee & Cookie Co. Usually for a nice, simple breakfast. Outstanding cinnamon roll this time. They also make great, custom made to order croissant breakfast sandwiches that are most delicious!
Buffalo Nickel Restaurant
Outstanding Chimichanga at the legendary Buffalo Nickel on Catalina Island!
