Old City Hall - San Diego

I had the buffalo mac and it was quite enjoyable. The cocktail with cayenne pepper was definitely the highlight of my visit. However, my second drink, a piña colada, was overlooked and took nearly 30 minutes to arrive. I almost gave up on it, but it finally came out just as we were finishing our dinner. In our group of ten, nobody was particularly impressed with their meals, although a few did express dissatisfaction (for me, it wasn’t bad enough to complain at the restaurant). For instance, the ahi tuna tacos were overcooked; it was like they were cooked all the way through! It reminded me of canned tuna. The cheese and meat platter was unremarkable. The cheese was cut into awkward shapes, resembling single-serving slices, and while I usually enjoy honey with a charcuterie plate, the random ball of honey didn’t really work with this hearty platter. The few crackers provided felt like the cheap ones you might find at a convenience store. Overall, nothing was bad enough for me to complain or send anything back, but no one in our group had an especially good experience. It was just okay.

If I moved to San Diego, this would be my go to for brunch, I know, I know, there are so many great places to eat, but this place offers a comfy feel that is perfect for nursing a hangover or playing with the table next to you kid. I had the shrimp and grits, with a side of sausage, and because I love avocado toast, I just had to try it... every single thing was so yummy. The grits were not instant and the sauce the shrimp was in, had just the right amount of spice, it also was served with eggs, which I’ve always had to ask for a side of in other places. The avocado toast was not paste but chunks of real avocado well seasoned on sourdough with a perfectly pouched egg, and the Louisiana style sausage that I asked for as a side, was spicy just the way I like it. The GM Mario stopped by to say hi and to see if all was well, he’s super cool and teddy bear like (don’t let his size or beard fool you . I love meeting people from the East Coast that made California home, my bartend is from NJ and made a martini type cocktail with turmeric, it was strong, not a get f’d up strong but an, oh this is what I needed strong. All in all just a great vibe, great food, and great drinks...

We celebrated our 20th anniversary here. The hostess greeted us with a “Happy Anniversary” and led us to a table already set for us. The server also acknowledged our special occasion all night long actually which was very nice. We enjoyed the 1/2 price bottle of wine and 1/2 price charcuterie board. Both were excellent choices!!! We had the gnocchi and mushroom pasta dishes both excellent!!!! They then served us a peanut butter ice cream and chocolate cake dessert for our anniversary, compliments of the house. There was a musician playing great tunes who was excellent as well. Great voice, great on instruments. We will definitely eat here again!

Lily was our server, and she did an excellent job—friendly, prompt, and informative. We were part of a group dining experience, which had its challenges with getting everyone settled and served, but it was enjoyable nonetheless. We had mixed feelings about the appetizers: the avocado toast, wings, and mac and cheese were definitely the highlights. We were also thrilled to be there on Wednesday for half-priced bottles of wine. It was a great deal! We'll definitely be returning!

The service was unsatisfactory, and the food was even worse. The only highlight of the experience was the Smoky Paloma.