I’m a foodie, and I love sharing all the delicious meals I’ve tried. But making this list was a tough one! Every day, I post about a meal I enjoyed on Instagram. But picking just a few favorites was a real challenge. And I don’t want to promote just one dish, because it might not be your favorite. Or it might have been a special that’s not available anymore. But hey, here are my best dishes December 2024.
Ciccia Osteria
Mafalde Fresh Pasta
Lamb shoulder ragu, pecorino
Although I am a frequent diner at Ciccia Osteria, I’ve only ordered a dish from the regular menu. That’s because their daily list (still handwritten) of specials is so good. I will admit that when it gets time to order, I look to the advice from owner Mario Cassineri to help me. This visit was a particularly tough choice as they also had artichoke-filled ravioli on the menu.
Siamo Napoli
Pappardelle con il Ragù d’Agnello
Cabernet infused pasta with slow braised lamb ragù.
You may point out that you have seen me single out this dish from Siamo Napoli several times, and you would be right. Owner Flavio Piromallo once told me that the lamb is slow-braised for 8 hours to get it’s perfect texture and flavor. No wonder it is a customer favorite.
The Great Oak Steakhouse
12 oz. New York Strip American A4 Wagyu
Served medium rare
If chef Emmanuel Inocencio is in the kitchen at The Great Oak Steakhouse, I know I will get a perfectly seasoned and cooked steak. Located in Pechanga Casino Resort, the restaurant has earned Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence each year since 2020. Just as impressive as the steaks, are the seafood dishes and service.
Tajima
Creamy Chicken Ramen
I strayed from my usual ramen dish from Tajima to try one I’d not had before, and so pleased that I did. The flavor of the chicken bone broth, egg noodles, tender chicken chashu, a half ramen egg, braised takenoko, baby spinach, red onions, and sesame seeds is absolutely delicious. They just opened a new location in Crown Point.
RustiCucina
Paccheri Salsa Alla Vodka
I have been to RustiCucina several times, and it was my daughter who urged me to get this dish. She has become a regular and thought I’d love it – which I did. The dish has the perfect combination of both tomato and cream-based sauces. Now I have to choose between this dish and the Pappardelle Al Brasato.
Coco Ichibanya
Chicken Cutlet Omelet Curry
with vegetables
This was my first meal at CoCo Ichibanya. But not the last. I finally understand why there is a 2-3 hour wait on Saturday evenings. Everything we ordered was delicious, but the Chicken Cutlet Omelet Curry was standout. The egg melts in your mouth, and the flavor of the curry is superb. Be warned to pay close attention to the Spiciness (it goes to level 20). Definitely one of the the best dishes December 2024.
Bocconcini Pizza Co.
Margherita Pizza
with alcaparrones
Chef Elvin and his team cook in a customized mobile wood-fired oven. You will find them on the weekends at Akash Wineries. They prepare traditional Italian-style pizza which goes so well with a glass of wine. Kudos to this team that will be opening a brick-and-mortar restaurant in Temecula in 2025.
GLASS BOX
Specialty Sashimi
Whether it is sashimi or sushi, Chilean Sea Bass, or Wagyu Hot Stone, the food from Ethan Yang at Glass Box impresses me. My preference is always sitting inside the glass box with a tableside view of the chefs. The fresh sashimi (or the 10 or 15-course omakase) is a great way to taste the quality of the fish.
Barra Oliba
Tortilla de patatas con aoli casero
Barro Oliba just opened, and I thoroughly enjoyed my first meal there. Even though this dish is simple, it is the complexity of perfecting it and using quality dishes that make it a standout item. It’s easily one of my best dishes December 2024. But then again, everything I ordered was delicious and I look forward to trying more of their dishes.
It was interesting to me to see that so many of my favorite dishes this month were from Italian restaurants. I also have posts on my favorite pizza restaurants in San Diego.
