Paradis Brings Basque Cuisine to Mission Hills
Visiting European cafes can be the highlight of any vacation. They are an ideal place to meet friends, sit outdoors, and people-watch. Paradis Mission Hills has captured all the charm of a European café.
Since its opening, Paradis Mission Hills has become a go‑to spot for brunch and casual bites in the neighborhood. The food and drink service runs most of the day, making Paradis Mission Hills a versatile choice for coffee, lunch, early dinner, or evening drinks with friends. Its location at The Sasan building also pairs well with the new rooftop spot Communion, making the whole block a dining destination.
Located on the ground floor of The Sasan 54-unit apartment building. Based on how busy it was in the opening week, it has already captured the attention of the community. In the kitchen, you will find chef Aly Lyng and chef Jon Hawkins. Two seasoned chefs with a strong rapport and experience working together guarantee so much success.
The dishes that we had were flavorful and beautifully presented. The prices are extremely reasonable based on the quality of the food, attention to detail, and focus on quality ingredients. Mission Hills is a vibrant neighborhood, and there are plenty of restaurants within walking distance from homes. The restaurants that have done well here have a strong sense of community.
The staff at Paradis Mission Hills were so warm and friendly. It was very evident how excited they were about its opening. I loved how eager they were to make recommendations and share their favorite dishes.
Two absolute standouts are the ponzu salmon and fruit tart. In these two dishes, you can see and taste Chef Aly and Chef Jon’s experience. The salmon was easily one of my favorite dishes this year. The pastry was not only visually impressive but also made me wish I could eat a second.
What Are Pintxos?
People typically eat pintxos as a small bite-sized snack or appetizer with a drink. They are a big part of northern Spanish culture. You either order after seeing them behind the glass at the bar counter or from the kitchen.
The Talented chefs Behind paradis mission hills
Chef Aly and Chef Jon have worked together at George’s at the Cove. This is another wonderful opportunity for them to collaborate at Paradis Mission Hills.
Chef Aly Lyng is an incredible pastry chef who has spent a decade at George’s at the Cove. Originally from East San Diego, people respect her as one of San Diego’s top pastry chefs.
Chef Jon Hawkins has worked at notable restaurants, including George’s at the Cove. His dishes are innovative and use high-quality ingredients with an inventive twist.
Unique Pintxo Dishes to Try at Paradis Mission Hills
Brunch at Paradis
In addition to serving barista drinks and cocktails, there is a brunch menu that sounds delicious. I look forward to coming back to trying the apple and farro pudding, stracciatella toast, and Paradis breakfast sandwich. You’re also going to find chef Aly’s pastries displayed in the glass case. The palmier butterflies look spectacular, and the seasonal fruit tart at Paradis Mission Hills is delicious.
Afternoon bites
Paradis Mission Hills has a wonderful selection of pintxos and tapas. Some dishes are displayed in glass cases – others will be freshly made in the kitchen.
The “Bilbainito”
Poached shrimp, house-made egg salad, cured egg, chives
Deviled Egg
Smoke paprika, radish
Crispy Patatas
Calabrese, apple ginger and cajun gastrique, house spice blend, garlic chives
Ponzu Salmon
Almond gremolata, yuzu caviar
Aji Amarillo Cucumbers
Passionfruit, tangerine, daikon, cilantro
A Taste of Basque Country in San Diego
Jacquee Renna Downing, a San Diego native, owns Paradis Mission Hills. Her late husband (Kip) previously owned Pacific Del Mar in Del Mar, CA. She also owns La Quinta Cliffhouse in La Quinta, CA, and Pacifica Seafood in Palm Desert, CA.
Neighborhoods like Mission Hills, North Park, Little Italy, and Encinitas feature amazing restaurants.
