Pristine beaches, a thriving craft beer scene and surrounded by the ocean, desert, mountains and Mexico. San Diego should be top of your destination dream list for 2019 – coupled with a stay across the border in Baja California, Mexico. Savour editor Georga Spottiswood says these are the places you need to visit in her week-long San Diego feature. Check back each day to see another review and recommendation. Today it’s the final instalment – AR Valentien.
San Diego is a city which serves up beauteous beaches and when you wake up at The Lodge, you’ll be greeted by spectacular views.
While downtown (the city centre) has high-energy vibes, The Lodge at Torrey Pines, in La Jolla, is more laid-back luxe. Here, you unwind, explore the nature reserve and lap up the waves on the golden shores.
The Lodge features fine dining restaurant,AR Valentien, and according to the waiter, “they do the best duck in San Diego”. He’s not wrong. executive chef Jeff Jackson sources only the best local produce, and he pairs the duck with roasted grapes, gnocchi, anise hyssop, watercress and a pine nut puree.
Sitting out on the terrace, under a blanket of stars, and enjoying the fine flavours on Jeff’s menu is exactly where you need to be when in San Diego.
Breakfast, which is also served on the terrace or in The Grill – with sweeping views of the iconic Torrey Pines Golf Course – is nothing short of spectacular. The blueberry and granola pancakes with maple syrup will set those with a sweet tooth into a frenzy.
READ MORE: A fine-dining pop-up in breathtaking surroundings.
