Eddie V’s makes an elegant splash in La Jolla

By Lynne Thrope

Lynne ThropeLA JOLLA, California -- It came at sunset. A sense of awe long past due. It crept up so suddenly as if a deity were gifting me with a spectacular view that for too long had been taken for granted. It is true that ocean lovers from all parts come to this place to marvel at the Pacific’s playground of wonderment.La Jolla’s world famous grotto is the place in which I refer, where sea lions perch themselves on any available rock below the ‘great one’ pleading for a morsel from an unassuming tourist. Here is where first time diners at the dramatic Eddie V’s first burst with, “Wow!” in response to the spectacular view…then, another “Wow” in response to the food. Make time to enjoy it all at the village’s newest fine dining restaurant on Prospect Street. Don’t rush through each picture-perfect course. As you take in the majesty of the earth, revel in the flavors of each artfully crafted culinary sensation.For sure, there is something for everyone on Eddie V’s comprehensive, easy-to-read menu. But extra-ordinary is EV’s trademark. Be prepared for food with attitude, where the chef knows how to balance texture with taste, colors with cooking techniques.Eddie V carpacccio salad

Your dining adventure can begin with a taste of Tartare, Sashimi, Carpaccio, or one of five fantastic salads. The classic Caesar rivals the Apple Salad puckered with green beans and candied walnuts drenched in a ginger orange vinaigrette. If Tartare is your thing, you can’t do better than Eddie’s V’s version marinated in curry and sesame oils and served with native avocado, mango and citrus. A hint of heat lingers for amoment from a slight injection of sriracha, an Asian hot chili sauce popularly used in today’s fusion cuisine.  Carpaccio, pictured here, is mine, especially when the thinly sliced beef of choice is prime filet padded with horseradish, capers, egg, and toasted baguette.

Ask your server to suggest a wine from the extensive list that touts the best of the best from California’s many vineyards. Mine received raves for his knowledge of wine pairings and tastes before ordering. Another “wow” point for Eddie V’s excellent staff training.

But itwas the fresh Paul Bunyan-sized crusted sole served on a carpet of lemon-garlic butter the color of corn silk that swept me away. It’s been years since I’ve seen sole from George’s Bank offered in any restaurant on this coast. Equally sensational was the prime cut Bone-in Rib Eye worthy of the heartiest consumer. Make sure to save room to enjoy the decadence of Eddie V’s dessert. All of them are enticing. One was speedily snatched from me after an offer to taste the Bananas Foster Butter Cake. My companion wasn’t the least bit contrite as he
inhaled its accompanying Butter Pecan Ice Cream. So much for sharing! I guarantee there will be a lot of that at Eddie V’s. B’Tayavon.

Eddie V’s is located in the village of La Jolla at 1270 Prospect Street. For reservations, call 858-459-5500.

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Thrope is a San Diego-based food critic