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Rancho
Bernardo
RESTAURANTS
El Bizcocho / 3*
17550 BERNARDO OAKS DR (RANCHO BERNARDO INN), RANCHO
BERNARDO; 858/675-8500
One of the most consistent dining rooms in the county. El Bizcocho charms
diners with artful service, gifted chefs, and understated elegance. The
spacious room evokes an upmarket country inn, with fireplace, well-spaced
tables, and a view of the carefully groomed golf course. Updated French
cuisine has always been a signature here, with classics like escargot
topped with puff pastry and quickly seared foie gras sharing billing with
more innovative creations. Depending on the season, these inventions could
be fingertip-sized scallops arranged on ravioli and drizzled with vanilla,
or a napoleon of lobster and caviar amid layers of phyllo. Fresh fish
is treated
with special reverence, so don't miss the roasted monkfish or sauteed
John Dory. Roasted free-range chicken and braised duckling paired with
fresh fruit are other standouts. Order the dessert souffles at the beginning
of a meal, and they'll arrive airy and perfect, right on schedule, just
as you're ready for espresso. Waiters are personable yet professional
and the wine list is superb, with several hundred top-notch brands from
California and France from which to choose. An adjoining bar often features
live piano music, providing an extra touch of class to this stately hacienda.
Sunday brunch is an elegant affair, worth an extra night's stay at the
hotel so you
can take a proper siesta afterward. $$$; AE, CB, DC, DIS, MC, V; checks
OK; dinner every day, brunch Sun; full bar; reservations recommended;
www.ranchobernardoinn.com; off the 15 Fwy/Rancho Bernardo Rd.
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