Best of North County - 2011

Best of North CoastRancho Santa Fe Review | Carmel Valley News | Del Mar Times | Solana Beach Sun

2011

PAGE 2 September 29, 2011 Best of North Coast 2011

Cathedral Catholic High School is honored to have been selected as “The Best Private School” by San Di-ego’s North Coast readers in the 2011 Readers’ Choice Awards.

Cathedral Catholic High School is a Catholic faith community serv-ing students with a strong college preparatory education, while provid-ing the character formation neces-sary for responsible global citizen-ship.

A four-year Catholic preparato-ry school in the Diocese of San Di-ego for young men and women, 98 percent of Cathedral Catholic High School graduates are college bound. Co-curricular programs, sports and service activities are offered. Stu-dents enjoy memberships in 47 social clubs. More than 75 percent of students participate in team or club sports. CCHS won six CIF Championships during this past school year. Additionally, students raise funds for charitable causes and participate in campus drama productions.

Our rigorous program of education is offered in a nur-turing community based on the teachings of the Catholic

Church. Our goal is to develop a community of learners dedicated to generative, lifelong learning that teaches stu-dents to assume responsibility for their own educational and spiritual growth. We pursue this goal by partnering with par-ents to facilitate this educational process and by modeling intellectual and Christian behavior.

Cathedral Catholic High School. 5555 Del Mar Heights Rd., San Diego CA 92130; (858) 623-4000.

Thank you to all our customers for voting us #1 dry cleaner in the 2011 Readers’ Choice “Best of” awards. Every-one at Beasley Cleaners is so excited to receive this award for the third consecutive year. We are very fortunate to be a part of such a special community, and truly appreciate our customers every day.

The Beasley family has been in dry cleaning for four generations. Terry Beasley has more than 40 years experi-ence, and has been in Carmel Valley for the last 20 years.

The employees at Beasley Cleaners have almost 100 years of combined experience, and many have been with Terry for at least 10, and some even 20 years. We take pride in our work and look forward to serving you with all your dry cleaning needs.

For more information, call Terry Beasley 858-792-7578 or visit www.beasleycleaners.com. Beasley Cleaners is locat-ed at 3840 Valley Centre Dr., # 605, San Diego, 92130.

Beasley Cleaners: Generations of Excellence BEST DRY CLEANER: BEASLEY CLEANERS – GOLD

This special section features the Gold, Silver and Bronze place finishers in the popular 2011 “Best Of” contest for var-ious businesses and professional services in Rancho Santa Fe, Del Mar, Carmel Valley and Solana Beach.

Congratulations to all those who won honors and were nominated. Not only is this a very competitive field as the North Coastal area boasts many of the top businesses and professionals in San Diego, the country’s economy over the past few years has made it more of a challenge than ever for businesses to thrive.

For these businesses to not only thrive but excel is a tes-

tament to the skill, dedication and expertise of their owners and staff.

Thanks, also, to the many readers of the Rancho Santa Fe Review, Del Mar Times, Carmel Valley News and Solana Beach Sun for taking the time to vote and show these busi-nesses that the quality of their services are admired and ap-preciated.

Businesses are the foundation of the American econo-my and an integral part of every community. With this spe-cial section we salute the businesses and professionals that serve our communities so well!

Congratulations to our 2011 ‘Best of’ Contest Winners and Nominees

Cathedral Catholic High School Tops AgainBEST PRIVATE SCHOOL: CATHEDRAL CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL – GOLD

BEST NEW RESTAURANT1 Smash Burger2 Zels Del Mar3 Orange Blossom

BEST BREAKFAST1 Claires On Cedros2 The Original Pancake House3 Champagne Bakery

BEST LUNCH1 Del Mar Rendezvous2 The Fish Market3 Fidel's Little Mexico

BEST TAKEOUT1 Leucadia Pizzeria2 Sammys Woodfired Pizza3 Rubio's Fresh Mexican Grill

BEST BRUNCH1 The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe2 Karl Strauss Brewing Company3 Poseidon

BEST FAMILY RESTAURANT1 Sammy's Woodfired Pizza2 Souplantation3 Fidel's Little Mexico

BEST OUTDOOR RESTAURANT1 Pacifica Del Mar3 The Beach House2 Posideon

BEST BURGER1 In & Out2 The Counter3 Five Guys

BEST DESSERT1 Champagne Bakery2 Nothing Bundt Cakes3 Cupcake Love3 Del Mar Swirls

BEST MARGARITA1 En Fuego Cantina & Grill2 Fidel's Little Mexico3 Chevy's Fresh MexBEST PIZZA1 Leucadia Pizzeria2 Pizza Port3 Sammy's Woodfired Pizza

BEST SANDWICH1 Board & Brew2 Milton's3 Jersey Mikes

Best of North Coast

2011

Phyllis Pfeiffer | PUBLISHER

Lorine Wright | EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Claire Harlin | EDITOR

Karen Billing | SENIOR NEWS WRITER

Don Parks | AD DIRECTOR Anna Mitchell, Teri Westover, Rosie Avina | ADVERTISING

Beau Brown | ART DIRECTOR Jennifer Mikaeli | GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Dara Elstein | BUSINESS

Brought to you by the publishers of Rancho Santa Fe Review, Carmel Valley News, Del Mar Times, and Solana Beach Sun.

The entire contents of the Best of North County© copyright 2011

Cathedral Catholic High School “Student Ambassadors”

September 29, 2011 PAGE 3 Best of North Coast2011

3810 Valley Centre Dr. San Diego, CA 92130 (Valley Centre Dr. & Carmel Creek Rd.)

www.piazza-carmel.com | Call: 760.630.6270

CONGRATULATIONS PIAZZA CARMEL MERCHANTS!

Gold Winners• Royal Dance • Ronda’s Closet • Beasley Cleaners

• Wells Fargo Dan & Julie Sherlock • Highlands Jewelry

Silver• Souplantation • Spices Thai Cafe • Beauty Bundles

Bronze• Baskin Robbins • Vision Boutique • Vons

Shop, Dine & Play

2011Readers’ Choice

“Best of”


“Best of”


“Best of”


Dan and Julie Sherlock would like to thank the readers for voting them the 2011 Readers’ Choice “Best Mort-gage Consultants.” They are honored to receive this award from their com-munity.

Dan and Julie have been members of the Carmel Valley/Del Mar commu-nity since 1988. They live, work, raise their kids, and volunteer in this great coastal area. Dan and Julie have worked as home mortgage consultants for over 25 years. They work as a team at Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, and understand the challenges of today’s real estate market and finance industry. Dan and Julie are dedicated to provid-ing their customers with top customer service and innovative financing solu-

tions to meet their homebuying and refi-nance needs. Even af-ter they close the loan, Team Sherlock’s service to their customers still continues. From your first home purchase, to a refinance, to the pur-chase of a second home or investment property, they are with you all the way.

Dan (NMLSR ID 453574) and Julie (NMLSR ID 455249) are conveniently located in the Wells Fargo Home Mortgage office in the

Vons Shopping Center next to Avis; 3890 Val-ley Centre Drive, Suite 105, San Diego, CA 92130; (858) 997-9300. Call, stop by their of-fice, or visit their web-site at www.sherloans.com today.

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. ©2011 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801 AS821380 9/11-12/11 An Equal Housing Lender.

Dan & Julie Sherlock with Wells Fargo Home Mortgage Honored by First Place Win for 2011 Reader’s Choice AwardBEST MORTGAGE CONSULTANTS – GOLD

Dan and Julie Sherlock

Del Mar Floral & Gifts: Serving North County for over 30 yrsBEST FLORIST: DEL MAR FLORAL & GIFTS – GOLD

Del Mar Floral & Gifts has been serving coastal North County for over 30 years.

Evan Wilensky, a 2002 Torrey Pines graduate and CEO of ESW Investments, Inc., does it again!

Swirls Frozen Yogurt was voted #1 for “Best Frozen Yo-gurt” in this newspaper group’s 2011 Readers Choice con-test.

The opening of Del Mar Swirls in 2008 was an instant success, with 52 non-fat and low fat rotating flavors, includ-ing Cake Batter, Red Velvet, Dulce De Leche , Tart Pomegran-ate, Cookies and Cream and many more flavors, along with 24 dry toppings AND fresh fruit bought and prepared fresh daily.

Evan continued his success by opening Encinitas Swirls in 2009 and now Evan will be opening his third location this fall, Carmel Valley Swirls (in the Del Mar Highlands Center).

“I love interacting with my customers, serving a healthy quality product and making sure that every one of my cus-tomers has a great time and experience at all of my Swirls lo-cations,” Evan said.

Please contact us at www.DelMarSwirls.com or www.En-cinitasSwirls.com.

Swirls Frozen Yogurt: Here We Grow Again!BEST ICE CREAM/YOGURT: DEL MAR SWIRLS – GOLD

Evan Wilensky

BEST SUSHI1 Nobu2 Zenbu3 Sushi Station

BEST SEAFOOD1 The Fish Market2 Pacifica Del Mar3 Jake's Del Mar

BEST AMERICAN1 Bully's Del Mar2 Pamplemousse Grill3 Beach Grass Café

BEST ASIAN FUSION1 Del Mar Rendevous2 Zip Fusion3 East Village Asian Diner

BEST CHINESE1 Del Mar Rendevous 2 P.F. Chang's3 Double Happiness

BEST FRENCH1 Mille Fleurs2 Champagne Bakery3 Addison-The Grand Del Mar

BEST ITALIAN1 Vigilucci's2 Il Fornaio3 Trattoria Trulli

BEST MEXICAN1 Fidel's Little Mexico2 Tony Jacal3 En Fuego Cantina & GrillBEST THAI1 Taste of Thai2 Spices Thai Café3 Bankok Bay Thai

BEST BAKERY1 Champagne Bakery2 Village Mill Bread Company3 Thyme in the Ranch

BEST CAFÉ1 Pannikin2 Champagne2 Thyme in the Ranch3 Pacifica Breeze Café

BEST COFFEE1 Starbucks2 Petes Coffee & Tea3 Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf

Best of North Coast

2011

Del Mar Floral & Gifts is a family-owned, local florist operated by Anne Engert, now the second generation in the European-born Engert family. The business has been serving coastal North County for over 30 years.

We take pride in our unique designs, our professional staff, and in providing ex-cellent customer service. We welcome cus-tom orders of any kind, fresh or artificial. Our succulent gardens and European plant gardens are made right on the premises. We carry a large selection of tropical flowers, as well as imported and locally-grown prod-uct. We always have unique and beautiful orchid plants, seasonal blooming and green plants, as well as gift items, soft and cuddly stuffed animals, and balloons. Our fruit and gourmet baskets are made-to-or-der with only the freshest products available.

Let us help you with your floral gifts today! Contact us

by phone, fax, or place your order online. We are here to serve you seven days a week. Contact: 858-755-0303; 800-221-3842; www.delmarfloral.com; [email protected].


3830 Valley Center Dr., Ste 706 | San Diego, CA 92130

HighlandsJewelers.netPiazza Carmel

Von’s Shopping Center

(858) 481-9193


“Best of”

25% OFF on all Merchandise in store

E xp 10/29/11

Thank You!You Voted Us The Best...

We are grateful for your support of our business


“Best of”

We’re glowing…The best compliment we can

receive is knowing you are happy!

Thanks to youAfter being open just three months

We won the Silver Award in The 2011 Reader’s Choice “Best of” Section in the

Del Mar Times.

Please join us for “Friday Fun Night” on September 30th from 4pm-7pm

and get 30-50% off select Beauty Bundles. Call to reserve your spot at our shopping night and get a free

purse hook...

BeautyBundlesSpaTique.com | 858.777.9575 3840 Valley Centre Drive | Suite #606 | San Diego, CA 92130

Our Family is Committed to Yours.®

Emeritus at Carmel ValleyWe at Emeritus at Carmel Valley wish to thank all of you who voted our community as the “Best of Senior Living” in the North Coastal Area for 2011.

We are committed to going above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of our residents and in the communities in which they live.

We offer a wide range of services from retirement living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing. Whether you are looking for a new place to call home without the hassles of daily living or you have a loved one who requires extra care such as dressing, bathing and medication management, Emeritus Senior Living is committed to helping you and your family find the right fit.

(888) 479-1863

Tours offered 7 days a week - call today to schedule your

complimentary tour!

2011Readers’Choice

“Best of”


CALL TO SCHEDULE A COMPLIMENTARY, IN-HOME CONSULTATION

KITCHENS/BEDROOMS/BATHS WHOLE HOUSE RENOVATIONS ADDITIONS OUTDOOR LIVING EXTENDED FAMILY LIVING AGING IN PLACE

marrokal.com

Trust Your Home to Us®

Thank you, North County, for recognizing

Marrokal Design and Remodeling as a favorite contractor in

your community.

We’d like to congratulate all the other nominees in the Best of North County

contest for their wins. We are in good company.

619.441.9300

Fleischer & Associates, Attorneys at Law, are “The Family Law Experts.” Every member of our legal team possesses the rare skill set allowing them to be a lamb, a pit bull and a fox on your behalf.

Getting you through this tough time fast and easily is our goal. We start by in-forming you so you know and fully under-stand your rights. Then, our expert family law attorneys explore your options. From here, we get right to work and work hard to protect you and get closure. This is why we are unlike any other family lawyers.

Not sure where to start or what to do with your family law situation? Take ad-vantage of a FREE, no obligation 30-min-ute consultation with an attorney. We will help make sense of the confusing legal jar-gon and explore your options. Fleischer & Associates can assist with any of the fol-lowing: Divorce/Dissolution, Custody, Support, Division, Agreements, Appeals, Estate Planning &Taxation, Immigration and Bankruptcy.

We can be contacted at 858-720-8250 or visit our website at www.fleischerlawof-fice.com.

Fleischer & Associates: The Family Law ExpertsBEST LAYWER: MYRA CHACK-FLEISCHER – GOLD

Myra Chack-Fleischer

Ideally situated at the base of verdant coastal hillsides in scenic Carlsbad, La Costa Glen is a con-tinuing care retirement community that offers secu-rity, independent living and more.

Sitting on a sprawling 55-acre campus, our ex-pansive community boasts a number of amenities and accommodation options, and a variety of on-site services designed to help you live better, for lon-ger. Plus, our adjacent Health Center is Medicare-certified and has been awarded its highest rating (Five-Star) for excellence and care, offering assisted living, skilled nursing care and memory support.

Please call us today at 1-800-375-3499 to sched-ule a personal tour and lunch, or visit us online at www.LaCostaGlen.com.

La Costa Glen in CarlsbadBEST SENIOR LIVING: LA COSTA GLEN – GOLD

La Costa Glen

Rancho Santa Fe’s renowned Mille Fleurs restaurant was awarded the 2011 Gold Medal for Best French Restaurant by the readers of the Rancho Santa Fe Review, Del Mar Times, Carmel Valley News and the Solana Beach Sun.

The beloved North County restaurant has updated its look and cuisine just in time for fall, boasting a newly reno-vated patio and creative casual/bar menu crafted around the season’s harvest. Featuring Chef de Cuisine Martin Woesle’s highly acclaimed French Californian fare, the nationally-re-garded restaurant has once again proven to be one of San

Mille Fleurs Updates Look and Cuisine for FallBEST FRENCH RESTAURANT:

MILLE FLEURS – GOLD

Delicious burgers are on the menu at Mille Fleurs.

See Mille Fleurs page 7


THANK YOU FORVOTING SMASHBURGER “BEST NEW RESTAURANT!”

To show our gratitude, please bring this ad through January 31, 2012 to receive free Smashfries with the purchase of an entrée.

For insider tips, follow us on Twitter @SmashburgerSD.

www.smashburger.com

VISIT US AT:LA JOLLA

Prospect St. & Girard Ave. (858) 750-2531

DEL MARCamino Del Mar & 15th

(858) 461-4105

MISSION VALLEYHwy 163 & Friars Rd.

(619) 684-1550

MARKET STREET8th Ave. & Market St.

(619) 241-2207

RANCHO PEÑASQUITOSBlk. Mt. Rd. & Rancho Peñasquitos Blvd.

(858) 780-9300

KEARNY MESAEscondido Fwy & Murphy Canyon Rd.

(858) 268-9301

OCEANSIDEMarron Rd. & College Blvd.

(760) 729-1686*Open October 2011

VISTAUniversity Dr. & Robelini Dr.

*Open November 2011

Find out why La Costa Glen is a favorite retirement option among area seniors.

You can have it all – independence, security, and a happier and healthier lifestyle surrounded by friends. Come discover our perfect location, state-of-the-art services and amenities, lifetime access to a full continuum of care, maintenance-free lifestyle and more.

Call 1-800-375-3499 today to schedule a tour.

1940 Levante St. s Carlsbad, CA 92009Phone 1-800-375-3499 s LaCostaGlen.com

Thank you for votingLa Costa Glenthe Best in Senior Living.

Also voted: 2nd - “Best Margarita”3rd - “Best Family Restaurant”

3rd - “Best Lunch”

MUCHAS GRACIAS FOR VOTING US“BEST MEXICAN” ONCE AGAIN!2011

Readers’ Choice

“Best of”

A San Diego Tradition for Over 50 YearsPatio Dining • Happy Hour • Lunch Specials • Early Bird Dinner

607 Valley Ave. Solana Beach858-755-5292

Diego’s culinary gems.Visit Mille Fleurs Sunday through Thursday for the $40 prix-fixe menu or enjoy the res-

taurant’s new casual/bar menu nightly in the fountain room and bar area. The appetizingly affordable casual/bar menu features fall-inspired menu items ranging from $8 to $19.

Mille Fleurs is located at 6009 Paseo Delicias in Rancho Santa Fe. Reservations are wel-comed and can be made by calling 858-756-3113. For more information, visit www.mille-fleurs.com or connect with Mille Fleurs on Facebook and Twitter.

Mille Fleurs Contiunued from Page 6


The Fish Market Del Mar offers a special $12 fixed-price “Early Catch” menu between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday.

“Early Catch” entrees include mesquite-grilled skewered combination — pacific cod, tiger shrimp, scallops, bell pep-per, onions; mesquite grilled Pacific Red Snapper and tartar sauce; Panko-style Fish and Chips served with fries and cole-slaw; Bay Shrimp Louie salad containing field greens, toma-toes, cucumbers, egg and homemade Louie dressing; crispy Dijon crusted Tilapia topped with nectarine salsa; and mes-quite grilled Cajun-style Sea of Cortez Prawns with melted butter.

Entrees are served with a choice of appetizers, two sides and The Fish Market’s irresistible sourdough bread.

The Fish Market won first place for Best Seafood and second place for Best Lunch in the “2011 Readers’ Choice Best of North Coast” poll.

The Fish Market is located at 640 Via de la Valle, across from the Del Mar Fairgrounds. Call (619) 755-2277 for more information.

Savor and Save with The Fish Market’s Flavorful ‘Early Catch’ MenuBEST SEAFOOD: THE FISH MARKET – GOLD

The Fish Market

Highlands Jewelers has been a prominent business in Carmel Valley since 1989. Its owner and jeweler Vic-tor Manoushakian is always busy repairing, designing or creating new pieces every day. He takes much pride in taking care of each and every customer — Victor is well known for his honesty and customer service.

Victor is a craftsman who got his start working in his uncle’s workshop. Over the years he has studied in Lebanon, Montreal, and San Diego. His vast experience and knowledge is what he loves passing on to his cus-tomers. Recently, he was in Lafayette, Louisiana, learn-ing the process of “Laser Soldering,” and purchased the laser machine. This method requires no heat; there-fore, there is much less stress on the precious pieces he works on. He works on yellow and white gold and Plat-inum, and can repair silver and other metals as long as they can be repaired. We do all repairs and designing on the premises.

Highlands Jewelers pro-vides services in watch re-pair, appraisals, and jewelry repair. They buy old gold and diamonds.

Thank you to our com-munity for your uncondi-tional support and loyalty, once again voting us the best jewelry store in town.

Highlands Jewelers is located at 3830 Valley Cen-ter Dr., ste.706, San Diego, 92130; 858-481-9193; fax 858-481-3723; [email protected]; www.highlandsjeweler.net.

Highlands Jewelers at Piazza Carmel Continues to ShineBEST JEWELRY: HIGHLANDS JEWELERS – GOLD

Our “Hotel Gift Cards” is a fantastic way to surprise a friend, loved one or colleague with a memorable luxuri-ous sleeping accommodation or dining experience at The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe, where the natural beauty of the surroundings couldn’t be more romantic. For more infor-mation about purchasing our gift card please visit our web site at www.theinnatrsf.com or call 858-756-1131.

Innfusion Restaurant: Enjoy the charm and romance of “Innfusion,” the Inn’s signature dining room featuring the finest and freshest organic local ingredients with Cali-fornia along with “East Meets West” cuisine. You can pur-chase Executive Chef John Beriker Inn Cookbooks, call 858-756-1131 or visit the front desk.

Cooking Lessons: Award-winning Executive Chef John Beriker also specializes in children and adult private cooking lessons. Chef John conducts hands-on techniques with all the ingredients of great success, fun, entertain-ment, education and food preparation.

Weddings: The Inn is a truly romantic and unique designation specializing in weddings, special events and conferences with the utmost in personalized service and cuisine.

Come Home For The Holidays by calling us for your dining or private party reservations during Thanksgiving

and Christmas. Our Executive Chef has specially-created holiday menu buffets featuring all of the freshest local in-gredients to make your dining experience unsurpassable. The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe is located at 5951 Linea Del Cielo, Rancho Santa Fe; 858-756-1131; www.theinnatrsf.com.

The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe: A Variety of ChoicesBEST BRUNCH: THE INN AT RANCHO SANTA FE – GOLD

The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe walkway

BEST DELI1 Milton's2 Harvest Ranch Market3 Tip Top Meats

BEST ICE CREAM/YOGURT1 Del Mar Swirls2 Golden Spoon3 Baskin Robbins

BEST VEGETARIAN1 Naked Café 2 Souplantation3 Zinc Café

BEST PHARMACY1 CVS Pharmacy2 Rite Aid3 Vons

BEST FURNITURE1 Birdcage2 Lawrance Furniture3 Nettle Creek

BEST FLOORING1 Coles2 MJ Flooring3 Metro FlooringBEST BANK1 Bank of America2 Wells Fargo-RSF3 Union Bank

BEST HOTEL1 L'Auberge Del Mar 2 The Grand Del Mar3 Rancho Valencia

BEST MEN'S APPAREL1 Jos. A. Bank2 Gary's Studio3 Patrick James

BEST WOMEN'S APPAREL1 Ronda's Closet2 Ooh La La3 Studio 1220

BEST EYE WEAR/SUNGLASSES1 Sunglass Hut2 Optical Illusion3 Vision Boutique

BEST JEWELRY1 Highland Jewelers1 Robere's Fine Jewelry2 Diamond Boutique2 Martin Katz3 RSF Estate & Fine Jewelers

Best of North Coast

2011

Victor Manoushakian


Where you’ll fi nd a distinctive blend of exceptional service,

supportive health & well-being programs and spacious residences

all designed to fi t your lifestyle—not the other way around.

Add to that an extraordinary scenic coastal location, a great

restaurant, and outdoor heated pool and spa, and you’ll discover

La Vida Del Mar is the perfect place to call home.

Call today to schedule your personal tour and complimentary lunch.

RCFE #374602832

Your lifestyle continues here.

SRGseniorliving.com

850 Del Mar Downs Road, Solana Beach

(858) 345-4127

INDEPENDENT & ASSISTED LIVING RESIDENCES

A N S R G S E N I O RL I V I N G C O M M U N I T Y

Your comfort.Our privilege.


“Best of”

RONDA’S C L O S E T

“For the Fashion Forward”

3860 Valley Centre Dr. Unit 407, San Diego, CA 92130

tel: 858.350.0071 • Fax: 858.350.0076 • [email protected]


“Best of”

Here’s our gift to you!

20 OFF%Enjoy

Any 1 ItemExcludes liquid metal jewelry & Red Engine Jeans.

Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. Valid for one time use only. May not be combined with any other promotions. Exp. 10/30/11

Women • Girls • Gifts • Accessories

2011

Best of North Coast


Kitchen 1540 Redesigns and Ups the Ante with New MenuBEST HOTEL: L’AUBERGE DEL MAR – GOLD

Chef Paul McCabe’s AAA four-diamond KITCHEN 1540 at L’Auberge Del Mar recently un-veiled its third incarnation, with credit going to the interior de-sign helm of Andre Kikoski, eru-dite General Manager Brian La-Fontaine and the renowned mix-ologist Darby Kelly, from Wynn, Las Vegas.Quips LaFontaine, “This building is a restaurant that happens to have a hotel at-tached to it, so if you overin-dulge you can stay the night.”

The new upholstery and wall coverings make the room more vibrant. There are sleek modern honey-gold chairs from France that give the room the added pop of color it’s been missing. Says McCabe, “There is now fresh artwork, different lighting, new uni-forms, and a menu makeover — so the look and feel of it,

and the way people come in to dine, is completely different.”

Unlike no other, the White Flag menu, as it’s called, has no written menu — rather, the serv-ers gather information from the guests: food preferences, dietary restrictions, or whether they are looking for opulent ingredients like foie gras or caviar. Then the kitchen builds a completely spontaneous menu. They keep sending out food-paired with cocktails, beer or wine-until you wave the white flag or surrender.

Then they send out two dessert courses.Now taking reservations.For more information, please visit www.laubergedelmar

or www.kitchen1540.

The Royal Dance Academy was voted best dance studio AGAIN! And owner Francine Garton offers a sincere thank you to all the wonderfully loyal supporters that voted for her studio this year.

“I am really delighted and proud of all the good things we offer at the RDA. I can’t thank the parents and students enough for their loyal support and commitment to our stu-dio. We have a wonderful, friendly, family atmosphere and we work tirelessly to nurture that. I owe a debt of gratitude to all those who took the time to vote and thank all of them for showing another element of their support and recogni-tion of our studio,” commented Francine.

The award is a timely one, as the RDA is just opening the doors of its brand new studios (situated next to Hall-mark in the Piazza Carmel Shopping Centre) in Carmel Val-ley.

The four-studio facility has evolved from the architect’s plans to reality in three months. The ultra-modern and

tastefully designed studios will provide students with the ideal place to learn all disciplines of dance and acting. All four new dance studios have every conceivable accessory to assist and enhance the dance experience. New sprung floors, full mirrors on all walls, professional new music sys-tems and lighting, closed circuit TV and viewing windows for parents, full-time office staff to assist at all times with all dance matters, and an extensive choice of classes for dancers of all ages and levels.

More than 150 classes are available, including classes for recreational dancers, competition teams, serious ballet students (R.A.D. examinations included) and a new acting and theatre program led by Carol Irwin, an acting profes-sional and agent from Los Angeles.

The new Royal Dance Academy studios are ready now to welcome you.

For information, call 858-350-9770 or visit our webpage at www.royaldanceacademy.com

Royal Dance Academy Thanks Loyal SupportersBEST DANCE STUDIO: ROYAL DANCE ACADEMY – GOLD

More than 150 classes are available for dancers of all ages and levels at Royal Dance Academy.

BEST DRY CLEANER1 Beasley Cleaners2 Margaret's Cleaners3 Surf Cleaners

BEST FLORIST1 Del Mar Floral and Gifts2 Rancho Santa Fe Flowers and Gifts3 Flower Hill Florist

BEST MARKET/GROCERY1 Henry's Farmers Market2 Seaside Market3 Jimbo's Naturally

BEST TRAVEL AGENCY1 World Class Vacations2 Gayle Gillies Travel3 Worldview Travel

BEST HAIR SALON1 Rocco's Hair Design2 Beauty Bundles3 V's Barbershop

BEST DAY SPA1 La Costa Resort & Spa2 L' Auberge Del Mar3 Rancho Valencia3 The Grand Del Mar

BEST HEALTH CLUB1 Pacific Athletic Club2 Frogs Fitness3 Curves

BEST YOGA1 Haute Yoga2 Sculpt Fusion3 Yoga Del Mar

BEST SENIOR LIVING1 La Costa Glen2 Emeritus 3 La Vida Del Mar

BEST ART GALLERY1 Del Mar Art Center2 Timmons Galleries3 Lux Art Institute

BEST LAWYER1 Myra Chack-Fleischer2 Nancy Bickford3 Haymes Law Group

Best of North Coast

2011


would like to say...

for voting them the no. 1 dance studio again!

858.350.9770www.RoyalDanceAcademy.com • [email protected]

3880 Valley Centre Drive, San Diego 92130 (next to Ace Hardware and Hallmark)

Ballet • Mommy & Me • Jazz • Tap • Hip Hop • Acting • Lyrical • Yoga • ModernMusical Theater • Stretch • Turns & Leaps • Pointe & Pre Pointe • Adult Classes

Successfully serving Carmel Valley for the past 10 years.

“Thank you to all my wonderful and loyal students and parents for your tremendous support”

- Francine Garton (Director - RDA)

S E L F S E R V E F R O ZE N Y O G U R T !

FREE YogurtBuy 1 yogurt & Get 1 FREE

Not Valid with any other offer. Exp. 7.11.11.

50% OFF YogurtBuy 1 yogurt & Get 1 50% off

• 52 Rotating Flavors• 30 Delicious Toppings• Fresh Fruits• Non-Fat and Low Calorie

Coming Soon... Carmel Valley Swirls

Del Mar Highlands Town Center


“Best of” Voted #1 for “BEST YOGURT”

(Free Yogurt must be of lesser value)Limited to 16 0z. swirls cups only.

Not valid with any other offer. Expires 10/30/11.

(Of equal or lesser value)Limited to 16 0z. swirls cups only.

Not valid with any other offer. Expires 10/30/11.

Del Mar Swirls • 858.755.55642683 Via De La Valle, Ste. E • Del Mar

www.DelMarSwirls.com

Encinitas Swirls • 760.479.2442204 N. El Camino Real, Ste G • Encinitas

www.EncinitasSwirls.com

1540 CAMINO DEL MAR | DEL MAR, CA 92014 | 855 788 1700

L’AUBERGE DEL MAR

THANK YOU...For making us your favorite hotel (and #2 San Diego Spa!) we would like to give you $25 off any treatment 50 minutes or longer.*

*Not valid on Saturday. Excludes manicures, pedicures and Sweet Spa Deals.


“Best of”

Del Mar Floral & Gifts

Thank You For Voting Us The Best!

10% OFF

Your next in-store purchase of fresh flowers. Valid only for pick-up/carry out Family owned & operated

for over 35 years.

Del Mar Floral • 858.755.030312750 Carmel Country Rd A 110 • San Diego, CA 92130 • www.delmarf lora l .com

2011

Best of North Coast


Ronda’s Closet is a wom-en’s and girls’ fashion mecca filled with affordable trea-sures retrieved from as nearby as Los Angeles and as far away as New York and Paris. High-lights range from a wide vari-ety of denim and tops, to dresses in every color and shape. There’s also a com-plete line of distinctive acces-sories, such as Liquid Metal mesh bracelets, purses of ev-ery size and an abundance of earrings and necklaces you can’t get enough of. Archipelago & Votivo candles fill the air with scents you have to have.

Some might say that this retailer is an extension of Ronda’s own closet: it is full of reasonably priced, contem-porary pieces. “I know what I like to spend on myself and my kids, so 90 percent of the items in the store are under $100,” said Ronda, who has three daughters who shop at the Closet. “My mission is to find the best quality at the best price and to pass that on to my customers.”

Of course, anyone who knows Ronda knows that they are in knowledgeable, trustworthy hands when they visit her shop. In fact, many of them have been seeking out her fashion expertise for years.

“When I moved here from Los Angeles 11 years ago, I sold clothing out of my home on an appointment-only ba-sis. It was the perfect career for a stay-at-home mom,” she said. “Soon, I built a name for myself in Carmel Valley. I had 500 customers after awhile.”

When a 1,200-square-foot retail space opened up within walking distance of Ronda’s home, she pounced on it and her loyal customers followed her.

“I really wanted to find something close to home, and when I saw this place, I knew it was the store for me,” Ronda said.

Ronda holds events in the store for a number of dif-ferent charities, including The Children’s Hospital and Team in Training, and breast cancer awareness. She pro-vides wine and appetizers and gives a percentage of the proceeds to the charity.

“I love to donate. Our events are so much fun. It gives women a chance to get away and have fun with their girlfriends, and it’s for a good cause!”

Ronda’s Closet is located in the Piazza Carmel Shop-ping Center (3860 Valley Centre Dr # 407, San Diego, CA 92130-3312); (858) 350-0071; www.rondascloset.com.

Looking forthe rightfinancialadvisor?Diane Huckabee, CFP®Financial Advisor.

12760 High Bluff Dr Suite 320San Diego, CA 92130858-794-7399www.edwardjones.com

Member SIPC


“Best of”

San Diego’s fi nest breakfast experienceBatters prepared fresh daily, farm fresh grade AA eggs, freshly squeezed orange juice, blended gourmet coffee and more!

Open daily for breakfast and lunch*Valid Monday-Friday with this ad at the following locations only. Not valid holidays or with other offers. One coupon per customer. Expires 10.31.11

Encinitas/Rancho Santa Fe:160 S. Rancho Santa Fe Rd.

760-943-1939 2011Readers’ Choice

“Best of”

15% OFF*

Terry Beasley & Family• 25 Years Satisfaction• 4th Generation3840 Valley Center # 605San Diego, CA 92130

# 60530

mmily

Same Day Service Pickup & Delivery858.792.7578

15% OFF Your Total Bill!

Dry Cleaning Only

Th ank You!For Voting us the BEST

Excluding Laundry


“Best of”

Th ank You For Voting Us BEST NEW RESTAURANT


“Best of” Happy Hour DailyLive Music Th ursday thru Sunday

Wendell Smoot III, MD, Reza Sadrian, MD, Carol Hollan, MD, John Smoot, MD.

The Rancho Santa Fe Review, Del Mar Times, Carmel Valley News and Solana Beach Sun’s 7th annual 2011 Readers’ Choice poll have awarded the plastic surgery practice of Smoot, Sadrian and Hollan the number one Gold winner “Best Cosmetic Surgeons” in San Diego’s North County. The practice specializes in plastic surgery procedures, laser treatments and skincare at its state-of-the-art, private surgical facilities and skin care center on the campus of Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla.

Dr. John Smoot is Chief of Plastic Surgery at Scripps Memorial Hospital, La Jolla, and Dr. Wendell Smoot has been peer-voted Top Doctor in San Diego for five consec-utive years. Dr. Carol Hollan is San Diego’s first female board-certified plastic surgeon, while Dr. Reza Sadrian is one of only a few plastic surgeons in the country dually

Smoot, Sadrian and Hollan Voted Top Plastic SurgeonsBEST PLASTIC SURGEON: DR. SMOOT – GOLD

In an area filled with expensive designer boutiques, cookie-cutter department store chains, and very little in-between, finding a fashionable, unique wardrobe without breaking the bank can be a real challenge. But Ronda Chowaiki, a 30-year veteran of the retail, wholesaling and merchandising industries, made it a bit easier in October 2004 when she flung open the doors of Ronda’s Closet.

Ronda’s ClosetBEST WOMEN’S APPAREL: RONDA’S CLOSET

Ronda Chowaiki

trained in oral and maxillofacial surgery, as well as plas-tic and reconstructive surgery. Visit www.SanDiegoPlas-ticSurgeryClinic.com or call (858) 587-9850.


2087 San Elijo Ave., Cardiff-by- the-Sea CA 92007Ph: 760.753.5445 • Fax: 760.753.2018

OPEN DAILY 7:00 AM-10:00 PM

$5.00 OFF Any $25.00 purchase.

Limit one per customer, Not valid with any other offer, Original Coupon Only. Exp. 10/13/11

We Cater To Good Taste

2011Readers’Choice

“Best of”

DIVORCE-FAMILY LAWCOMPASSIONATE YET AGGRESSIVE FAMILY LAW EXPERTS

“Hire Them Before Your Spouse Does”

445 Marine View Ave Suite 301, Del Mar, CA 92014

• Divorce• Child Custody• Mediation• Spousal Support

• Child Support• Collaborative Practice• Domestic Partnership• Dissolution

www.FleischerLawOffi ce.com

(858) 720-1496

Thank You For Your Vote! “Best Lawyer” in

Reader’s Choice Best of 2011


“Best of”

★ ★ ★ ★

★ ★

★ ★

2011

Best of North Coast


BEST DENTIST1 Del Mar Dental2 Torrey Hills Dental3 Clayton Cooke

BEST COSMETIC SURGEON1 Dr. Smoot, Sadrian & Hollan2 Changes Plastic Surgery3 Del Mar Cosmetic Medical Center

BEST CONTRACTOR1 Weir Brothers Custom Homes2 Marrokal Construction3 Smith Brothers Construction

BEST FINANCIAL PLANNER1 Morgan Stanley - David Allen/Leslie Monteath 2 Edward Jones - Diane Huckabee3 Ranch Investment Group

BEST GOLF COURSE1 The Grand Del Mar2 Lomas Santa Fe Executive Course3 RSF Golf Club

BEST KIDS SPORTS LEAGUE1 Surf Soccer2 Del Mar Carmel Valley Sharks3 Torrey Pines Pop Warner

BEST DANCE STUDIO1 Royal Dance Academy2 North County Dance Arts3 Love to Dance

BEST HORSE FACILITY1 Del Mar Horse Park2 Rancho Riding Club3 Clews Horse Ranch

BEST WINE BAR1 Wine Steals2 Dolce Pane & Vino3 Crepes & Corks

BEST INTERIOR DESIGN1 Nettle Creek2 Fairbanks Interiors3 Beach Bungalow Designs

BEST AUTO DEALERSHIP1 Hoehn Auto Group2 Bob Baker Auto Group3 BMW Encinitas

BEST AUTO SERVICE1 Amato's Auto Body 2 Del Mar Car Service3 RSF Mobil Station

BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL1 Cathedral2 San Diego Jewish Academy2 Santa Fe Christian3 Horizon Prep

BEST KIDS STORE1 Geppetto's2 City Kids Beach Kids3 Thinker Things

BEST PET STORE1 Muttropollis2 Pet People3 Dirty Dogs

BEST INSURANCE1 AAA2 Rancho Santa Fe Insurance3 Statefarm Insurance Jason Smith Solana Beach

BEST WINDOW/WINDOW COVERING1 North County Blinds2 Newman Replacement Windows3 Sierra Window Concepts

BEST MORTGAGE BROKER1 Dan & Julie Sherlock - Wells Fargo2 Gaylord Hansen - Met Life3 Richie Faust - Met Life

Best of North Coast

2011

Dare To Be DifferentBEST AUTO SERVICE: AMATO’S AUTO BODY – GOLD

Amato’s Auto Body doesn’t look anything like a collision re-pair facility—and that’s exactly the point.

Driving by Amato’s Auto Body in San Diego, it’s unclear exactly what the place is.

The cream Art Deco build-ing, which features green, yellow and black accents, offers no prominent signage beyond own-er Paul Amato’s last name in a neat black script. The facility looks like a vintage movie theater or restaurant and passersby often mistake it for one of the two.

Most shop owners posi-tioned next to a freeway that sees 300,000 vehicles a day would think it’s crazy not to advertise their shop’s services, but Amato thinks differently. Relying on quality work, customer referrals and an Art Deco–themed facility unlike any other, his 15,000-square-foot shop man-ages to pull in 125 cars a month and $6.5 million in annual revenue, with zero insurance relationships.

“I wanted to stand alone, to be different,” Amato says of his vision for the shop. “We don’t need a fishbowl and plaques on the wall. We want people to come in the build-ing and say, ‘This is really cool.’”

A gradual moveAmato, 53, started doing collision work in the mid-

1980s, after a stint in vehicle restoration.Back then he owned a more traditional-looking shop in

an industrial area just down the street from his current loca-tion. He saw the new building, a former warehouse on a one-acre plot, on his way to work one day and quickly rec-ognized its potential. He bought it for $1 million, picked up another nearby plot for the same price and moved in 1997.

By that time, Amato’s had honed in on European vehi-cle repairs, which it still specializes in today. The shop is cer-tified in Mercedes, BMW, Porsche, Audi, Aston Martin and Volkswagen. Small vinyl letters on the front door advertise those certifications, which are the only indication of what goes on inside the business.

A reflection of clientsAmato had to fully retrofit the new building, which he

says only had enough electricity to power three light bulbs,

for collision repair. The back of the shop received paint booths, work bays and traditional repair equipment, but Amato decided to have fun with the front office.

Inspired by his love of 1930s automobiles and art, he opted for an Art Deco theme, both inside and out. The exterior design was already perfect and only required paint (Amato also planted some palm trees), but inside, he wanted to use as much authentic Art Deco decor as possible. He scoured eBay for original items from the era, creating a classy design that he says serves as a reflection of his af-fluent clientele.

When customers enter, they see an antique chandelier shipped

from New York, vintage red theater seats, original paintings and newspapers from the 1930s, several period-correct desks, and a continuation of the green, yellow and black paint scheme. The theme carries into the bathrooms with antique sinks and soap dispensers and tile work done in 1930s de-signs. About the only items not from or reflective of the 1930s are the shop’s computers and a few iPads offered as a modern convenience for customers.

And the theme extends beyond the building. The shop’s website opens with a slideshow of artwork, mixed with the words “art,” “passion” and “precision.” The words then align to form the shop’s motto: “When art, passion and pre-cision collide.”

Amato estimates he spent around $50,000 on his facili-ty’s décor, but some of it was a bargain. One of his paintings, bought for $150, was appraised at $12,000. He sold a dupli-cate of another piece of artwork to an enthusiastic customer for a profit.

“People come in and take pictures. They are very, very surprised,” Amato says of his creation, which he thinks has contributed significantly to the success of his business.

After working in his unique facility for more than a de-cade, Amato says he’s learned a couple of things:

Customers need the wow factor. It doesn’t matter what it is, as long as it drops jaws, Amato says.

For more information please visit: http://www.amatos-autobody.com.

Fidel’s Little Mexico has been a San Diego landmark since the early ‘60s when owner Fidel Montanez came up with the idea to serve tacos at his busy barber shop. The ta-cos sold like hotcakes and, before long, the place evolved into a neighborhood cantina. The business thrived and ex-panded as Fidel converted his two-story residence into three different levels, including a festive courtyard, a couple of bars and outdoor patios, and a taco bar.

Today, Fidel’s ranks among the top restaurants in San Diego County. Fidel’s menu offers traditional favorites, as well as house specialties that will transport you and your party “South of the Border.” So whether you’re enjoying dinner with your closest friends or just hanging out at hap-py hour and munching on some chips and salsa while sip-ping on an icy margarita, Fidel’s offers a pleasant getaway.

Visit us at 607 Valley Ave. in Solana Beach; 858.755.5292 or at www.fidelslittlemexico.com.

Fidel’s Little MexicoBEST MEXICAN: FIDEL’S – GOLD


Reservations always welcome at 858 756 3113.

www.millefleurs.com

It is still a great time of the year to enjoy dining al fresco on our beautiful patio.

The Delights of Autumn Dining begin with the unveiling our new casual/bar menu, with items ranging from $8.00 to $19.00, served in the Fountain Room and Bar.


“Best of” For reservations, please call 858-756-1131

www.theinnatrsf.com5951 Linea Del Cielo Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067

Our Hotel Gift Cards, is a fantastic way to surprise a friend, loved one or colleague with a memorable luxurious sleeping accommodation or dining experience at The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe where the natural beauty of the surroundings couldn’t be more romantic. For further information about purchasing our gift card please visit our web site at www.theinnatrsf.com or call 858-756-1131.

Innfusion Restaurant, Enjoy the charm and romance of “Innfusion” the Inn’s signature dining room featuring the fi nest and freshest organic local ingredients with California along with “East Meets West” cuisine. You can purchase Executive Chef John Beriker Inn Cookbooks, call 858-756-1131 or visit the Front Desk

Cooking Lessons, Award winning Executive Chef John Beriker also specializes in children and adult private cooking lessons. Chef John conducts hands on techniques with all the ingredients of great success, fun, entertainment, education and food preparation.

Weddings, The Inn is a truly romantic and unique designation specializing in Weddings, Special Events and Conferences with the utmost in personalized service and cuisine.

Come Home For The Holidays, by calling us for your dining or private party reservations during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Our Executive Chef has specially created holiday menu buffets featuring all of the freshest local ingredients to make your dining experience unsurpassable.


“Best of”


“Best of”

Voted #1 Cosmetic Surgeons in North County

Over 20 Years of Excellence in Plastic Surgery, Laser Treatments and Skincare

Drs. Smoot, Sadrian and Hollan are Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery and Member ASPS

9850 Genesee Ave., Suites 300 & 380, La Jolla, CA 92037 • 858.587.9850 • SanDiegoPlasticSurgeryClinic.com

Dr. Wendell Smoot, Dr. Reza Sadrian, Dr. Carol Hollan, Dr. John Smoot


Choose the Sherlock TeamWe’re with you all the way

We’re proud to be a part of the San Diego North CountyCoastal community and invite you to discover how we canassist you with your homebuying needs. Whether you’rebuying your first home, a second home or refinancing yourcurrent home, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage has a variety ofproducts and programs to help meet your needs. As localCarmel Valley residents and active volunteers who arefamiliar with the area, we are dedicated to meeting yourfuture homebuying and refinance goals.

Call today.

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.© 2011 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801. AS821380 9/11-12/11

Dan SherlockHome Mortgage [email protected] ID 453574

Julie SherlockHome Mortgage [email protected] ID 455249

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage3890 Valley Centre Drive #105San Diego, CA 92130Office: 858-523-4905Cell: 858-997-9300Fax: 1-866-281-6913www.sherloans.com

Thank you to the readers for voting us the 2011 Reader’s Choice Best Home Mortgage Consultants.

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