Lately, there have been many trips to San Diego, even to Mexico believe it or not — I’m not complaining — and they always have to do with food in one way or another. I visited Prepkitchen Little Italy last year, but this is my first visit to Prepkitchen La Jolla and I am surprised at how small this location is. My parking karma is in full force as I find parking right in front of the restaurant.
I am here with a group and we enjoy the relaxed nature of the outside patio. I am glad I snag a seat facing the street because it is entertaining and eye-opening watching some eccentric people walk by every so often.
A Daily Soup ($5/$9) is offered and on this day, it is mulligatawny. The blend of lentils yellow curry, coconut cream, jalapeno and ginger creates a mulligatawny I find extremely mild in flavor. I would have liked more spices, but understand this appeals to a wider variety of palates. It is pleasant and satisfies.
Who can say no to charcuterie? Not us! Cutting Board ($18) is a combination of house cured meats, cheese and various accompaniments such as roasted vegetables, olives and grain mustard. The toasted crusty bread is a welcoming addition to this item.
Another dish no one can deny is Bacon Wrapped Dates ($9.75). I love bacon and I love dates. The marriage between the two is one of salty sweet and it is difficult to stop once you’ve taken a bite.
Even though I’m not a big fan of salad, I enjoy the Asparagus & Little Gem Salad ($11.25). I think it is the tender little gem leaves and the blanched asparagus which win me over. The roasted shallot vinaigrette and BACON add so much flavor to the dish. A nine-minute egg is just the icing on the cake.
Tempura Fried Green Beans ($10.50) is a huge hit with everyone at the table. The accompanying sauce ravigot is nice and acidic and provides a great contrast to the fried green beans. Absolutely delicious and deserves a repeat order.
Sandwiches are definitely in order for lunch. Cubano Torta ($11.75) is definitely respectable, with Heritage smoked ham, pork belly, a chopped pickle relish, gruyere and house mustard. The bread is perfectly toasted and if sandwiches are your thing, then this is your sammie!
Vegetarians may opt for Poblano Torta ($11.75) with chipotle aioli, plantains, avocado, pico de gallo and queso fresco. The potato chips are soooooo good.
My favorite dish of the entire meal is Tagliatelle Bolognese ($19.50), a house-made pasta with a beef and pork blend, simmered with tomatoes and rosemary. The bowl is deceiving and looks on the small side, but once you dig into it, you’ll realize there is a lot there.
This is a quaint and cozy spot for a meal with friends. The staff is delightful and if you get prime parking, it makes the experience even more sweet.
Prepkitchen La Jolla
7556 Fay Avenue
La Jolla, CA 92037
Tel: 858-875-7737
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