Welcome to the Hotel ..... Del!! (not California...)

For us, no trip to the San Diego area is complete without a visit to the venerable Hotel Del Coronado on Coronado Island. Somehow despite the thousands of tourists that swarm over the place it seems to be able to retain its elegance and style. Many changes of ownership have brought some differences but mainly the old girl has kept her grace.





And again for us, no trip is complete without a brunch/lunch on the ocean terrace, now called “Sheerwater” for some unknown reason (maybe one of those ownership things). It is a splendid place to watch the ocean roll in, the whole spectrum of DF and NDF people wandering around, the occasional bevy of seals (Navy, not animals – no comments please), and enjoy consistently prepared food. As most of the outside tables were occupied, we opted to be on sort of the veranda with no sun issues, a bit more privacy, and less bird issues (the only continuing detraction). Having been there over a number of years, we recognized a few of the servers, aged like us, but still there. There is some reason for that, they are always courteous, respectful and friendly despite your state of DF. We accepted the menus, and again (good habits are okay), we decided on the traditional ($15) glass of champagne. MFO selected Domaine Chandon, and I took Jornan “J” Brut. Our friends decided to try a Mojito. The much needed drink choices being settled we took a look at the menu, which is just right for an outside(ish) brunch, whether you’re looking for lighter dining or heavier fare. There are starters with soups, bisques, fondues (!!??!!), Salads, Plates, Flatbreads and Sandwiches. A lot of seafood there, but also for those with heartier appetites the good old American “aged white cheddar bacon burger” served with fries, and with a nod to California, served on a brioche roll. A nice feature is “pairings” which are half sandwich/quesadilla/flatbread with half soup/salad. Meanwhile our drinks arrived





I went for the “whole” flatbread: Shrimp Scampi and Goat Cheese Flatbread with roasted red pepper, arugula, whole grain mustard, pesto. Others went for the various half and half creations of Rustic Chicken Noodle Soup & Hearts of Romaine Salad and - 1/2 Achiote Chicken Flatbread & Lobster Bisque. Conversation, people watching, and eavesdropping on tables filled the interim and then the food arrived. Again, despite the high volume they turn out a pretty nice dish.



Prices are not punishing, for instance the “pairings” are the same price as that champagne. Besides, who cares when they also buy you the experience of the Del. Don’t miss it.

Then some shopping, and we exited through the lovely and much unused courtyard.



The rest of the afternoon was occupied by shopping the local area on the distaff side, and the male half went birding to Santee Lakes which supplied some excellent views of waterfowl.




That evening the high level of food continued on our host’s table, consisting of some Thai Curried Shrimp, some green beans, a lovely salad, and oh, yes, some wine.



Life can be good if you are

DFD

Next, we hit a culinary high light which may not be exceeded for the rest of the journey, and then head back west (with new brake pads)