“Market, in Del Mar", Scores a Perfect “10!”

My chef partner and I are practically impossible to impress when dining out. We expect attentive service, high quality cuisine, interesting preparations, and ambiance. We expect the details(!) and rarely find a restaurant that offers this well rounded approach to the dining experience.

 Market, on Via De La Valle, previously called “Blackhorse Grill” is east of the I-5 across from the polo fields, and has not only impressed us with perfect service and impeccable cuisine not once, but three times. It is, as we learned from our first server, Roger, “where the chefs go.” We are the chefs... and we keep going back again and again, and having the same great results. That consistency in quality and service is hard to find in so many San Diego establishments. “Market” has it down!

 From the fresh squeezed grapefruit juice in my cocktail to the fresh micro greens garnishing the gorgonzola souffle, the ingredients used in Market dishes are the best I have tasted in local restaurant cuisine. I recognize products from Chino Farms and Specialty Produce it is obvious Chef Carl takes great care in selecting his ingredients. The flavors are bold and creative, the presentations second to none. The crab cakes, light and bursting with fresh flavor, sit in a rich pineapple

broth, garnished with zesty pea shoots; the chilled lemon souffle is exactly what a souffle should be; fluffy and lightly custardy, complimented perfectly by the contrasting blackberry sorbet over blueberry compote. The courses are perfectly timed, delivered by the highly skilled and very professional serving staff in a relaxed, friendly manner. The dining room is casual but classy, and slightly romantic.