The sushi is very tasty, though the flavors of the different rolls don't seem to vary greatly. I love the wonton soup, mostly be cause it is nearly impossible to find vege wonton soup anywhere! You can't go wrong wit ha noodle dish in taste, but they can be a little greasy.

I took my boss and a couple colleagues there a few weeks ago, all of whom eat meat, and they were all impressed by the dishes! This from a group of men with whom the conversation focused on the last hunting trip one of them had taken! And he even got Boba Tea, to boot!

Two Locations:

5501 Clairemont Mesa Blvd
San DIego, CA 92117
858-279-3747

9450 #114A Scranton Rd
San Diego, CA 92121
858-457-1103

www.SipZ.comSipZ (stress the "Z"), is a vegetarian Asian-fusion restaurant in Kearny Mesa. The dishes are affordable, usually just under $10 for a full size entree, and they serve up a range os Asian dishes from sushi to curry to noodles to salads. They offer a number of "faux meat" dishes.

The sushi is very tasty, though the flavors of the different rolls don't seem to vary greatly. I love the wonton soup, mostly be cause it is nearly impossible to find vege wonton soup anywhere! You can't go wrong wit ha noodle dish in taste, but they can be a little greasy.

I took my boss and a couple colleagues there a few weeks ago, all of whom eat meat, and they were all impressed by the dishes! This from a group of men with whom the conversation focused on the last hunting trip one of them had taken! And he even got Boba Tea, to boot!

Two Locations:

5501 Clairemont Mesa Blvd
San DIego, CA 92117
858-279-3747

9450 #114A Scranton Rd
San Diego, CA 92121
858-457-1103

www.SipZ.com

The owners, Michael Flores and Stacy know their food.  They both have extensive experience in the many facets of the restaurant business, but more importantly they have a strong style and impeccable taste.  The menu excludes the use of corn syrup and partially hydrogenated oils, and emphasizes fresh and local ingredients when possible. 

The Ritual Tavern has a subtle gothic feel to it, evoking a sense of magic when you enter.  This is a surprise from the outside, which looks, on the contrary, vaguely diner-like.  The decor is rich and warm, making you wonder if outside it is a sunny San Diego afternoon or a blustery evening in London. 

Of course the most important thing to mention is the food.  While the menu is currently limited, plans to expand the options are scheduled as the Ritual only recently opened.  Still, even with the current short list, they serve up dishes for a wide variety of tastes and needs, from the rich (and gluten-free) shepard's pie with Colorado lamb (after all, who eats lamb from anywhere else?) to the home made veggie burger that I warn you to NOT put ketchup on because you don't want to miss out on the delicious flavors!  They also have fish and chips (what kind of tavern would be without this?), and of course a wide variety (and continually windening) of beers, wines, and other refreshments. 

The Ritual emphasizes local fare, and this extends to their list of beers from San Diego breweries (like AleSmith and Ballast Point). The wine list is also nice, though doesn't currently feature California wines.  They even serve Mexican Coca-cola for being made closer to San Diego and featuring real can sugar! 

The final note:  Don't miss dessert!  At the Ritual they truly serve the best for last (and it starts off pretty damn good).  The strawberry shortcake is truly shortcake, and it is divine.  The buttery cake crumbles in your mouth and pairs perfectly with the gelato they serve.  The bread pudding is delectable, with a bourbon caramel sauce that takes it to another level compared to most bread puddings. 

Ritual Tavern
4095 30th Street
San Diego, CA 92104
619-283-1618
http://www.ritualtavern.com/

Ritual Tavern

In the blossoming heart of North Park, another new restaurant (among the many) has recently opened.  Ritual Tavern has reason to stand out among the up-and-coming North Park scene. 

The owners, Michael Flores and Stacy know their food.  They both have extensive experience in the many facets of the restaurant business, but more importantly they have a strong style and impeccable taste.  The meno excludes the use of corn syrup and partially hydrogenated oils, and emphasizes fresh and local ingredients when possible. 

The Ritual Tavern has a subtle gothic feel to it, evoking a sense of magic when you enter.  This is a surprise from the outside, which looks, on the contrary, vaguely diner-like.  The decor is rich and warm, making you wonder if outside it is a sunny San Diego afternoon or a blustery evening in London. 

Of course the most important thing to mention is the food.  While the menu is currently limited, plans to expand the options are scheduled as the Ritual only recently opended.  Still, even with the current short list, they serve up dishes for a wide variety of tastes and needs, from the rich (and gluten-free) shepard's pie with Colorado lamb (after all, who eats lamb from anywhere else?) to the home made veggie burger that I warn you to NOT put ketchup on because you don't want to miss out on the delicious flavors.  They also have fish and chips (what kind of tavern would be without this?), and of course a wide variety (and continually windening) of beers, wines, and other refreshments. 

The Ritual emphasizes local fare, and this extends to their list of beers from San Diego breweries (like AleSmith and Ballast Point). The wine list is also nice, though doesn't currently feature California wines.  They even serve Mexican Cococola for being made closer to San Diego and featuring real can sugar! 

The final note:  Don't miss dessert!  At the Ritual they truly serve the best for last (and hit starts off prett damn good).  The strawberry shortcake is truly shortcake, and it is divine.  The buttery cake crumbles in your mouth and pairs perfectly with the gelato they serve.  The bread pudding is delectable, wit ha bourbon caramel sauce that takes it to another level compared to most bread puddings. 

Ritual Tavern
4095 30th Street
San Diego, CA 92104
619-283-1618
http://www.ritualtavern.com/

None the less, the event was fantastic.  Each "pair" was introduced by the representatives of Stone and Chuao.

The CEO of Stone Brewery is well-spoken, clearly excited about beer and thoroughly knoweldgeable (he better be!).  Not to mention, he's pretty darn cute!

The woman representing Chuao was a little less confident in her public speaking skills, and it showed.  She didn't speak clearly about the qualities of the chocolates, instead ending all the choco-introductions with one-liners.

Here are the pairings we tried:

Stone Pale Ale with Melao salt butter caramel in milk chocolate.
Stone Smoked Porter with Candela macadameia praline in dark chocolate.
Stone IPA with Cinco de Mayo lemon tequila ganache in dark chocolate.
Arrogant Bastard Ale with Caracas dark bar with nuts.
Stone Ruination IPA with Picante spciy caramel.
Stone Vertical Epic Ale with Cardamon ganache dark chocolate.

The Picante Pair was my favorite (and it won by loudness of applause), and the Melao was my sevond fave (though by applause I think it was Cinco de Mayo, which was also a very good pair).

Interestingly, the pairings were created primarily for similarities in flavors, which suprised me.  I would have guessed a more balancing approach, with the yin-yang thing going on.  For example, the Stone IPA was very citrusy, and they paired it with a very lemony caramel chocolate.  THey referred to this effect as "the flavor lock."  I guess they know what they're doing becuase they really did go well together.

I am looking forward to many more adventures in beer in the future.

A massage with a student practitioner is $39. However, I have to say that massage with the students here, in my experience, have been disappointing. They usually seem to want to talk to you and ask you all kinds of questions about you and your life. That's nice and all, but not during a massage. They also seem less sure of themselves than the students at IPSB, and less skilled.

So, if you are looking for a cheap massage, this school can offer it, but be warned that it still might not be worth it. However, if you do want to give them a chance, I can offer the same advice that I offer for any massage.

The secret is good communication; express your concerns before the session starts. Even during massage be sure to speak up if you would like lighter or harder pressure.

Some things to think about if you aren't familiar with massage:
Do you tend to get cold easily? Ask for a blanket.
Do you think you would like stretching during the massage? Yes or no, express this.
Are you stressed out?
Do you have sore muscles or joints?
Do you want your head massaged at the end?
Should the masseus avoid any areas, such as the stomach?

And, in this case: Let them know if you want to have massage without small talk!

School of Healing Arts
1001 Garnet Ave
San Diego, CA 92109
(8 581-9429
(8 490-2560
(8 581-9460

The setting is relaxing and professional.  You enter at the front desk, where the receptionist greets you; they are typically friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful.

The students are fair to good in their massage skills.  I can't remember a bad massage I've ever had at IPSB, but sometimes the students are just mediocre.  However, the professionals offer consistently good massage, for just small difference in price.

There are no extra amenities, like shower or spa facilities, but they have necessities for a great massage.  There is a lobby, which also sells some massage supplies and even some clothes and crystlas and other items.  There is also a lounge for discussion after the massage with your practitioner.  They have water and tea and cookies.

The practitioners are trained in a variety of styles, and most can offer several different types of massage.  The secret is good communication.  If you tend to zone out during massage, as I do, then it is key to express your concerns before the session starts.  Even during massage be sure to speak up if you would like lighter or harder pressure - even if it means pulling yourself out of a semi-conscious state.  Improving the massage is worth waking up for a moment!

Some things to think about if you aren't familiar with massage:
Do you tend to get cold easily? Ask for a blhttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gifanket.
Do you think you would like stretching during the massage? Yes or no, express this.
Are you stressed out?
Do you have sore muscles or joints?
Do you want your head massaged at the end?
Should the masseus avoid any areas, such as the stomach?

<a href="http://www.ipsb.edu/Welcome.html">IPSB Massage Training Center</a>
1414 Garnet Avenue
San Diego, CA  92109
Phone: 858-490-1154
Open Seven days a week.
9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
A full hour massage
$45 to $ 60

The Toby Wells YMCA is located in Kearny Mesa, and for many people it is quite out of the way. But if you work in the area it can be a very convenient location for getting in a workout or class. (I would have said "if you live or work in the area," but who lives in Kearny Mesa?)

It is clear that this location caters to the working world of Kearny Mesa. For example, they offer 45 lunch time workout classes Monday through Friday! They have 45 minutes pilates classes Monday through Thursday, and they have 45 minute yoga Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. They also have some one-hour yoga classes, though if you only have an hour for lunch the 45 minute classes are already a tight squeeze.

They are also located next to "San Diego Spectrum," a generally geenric strip mall, but worth noting because they have some healthy lunch options like "Robeks" cafe and juice bar.

Toby Wells YMCA also has a pool, a hot tub, regular exercise equipment (you know cardio machines and weight machines, if you're into those things), and of course fully equipped locker rooms. They also offer childcare for up to two hours while working out, and full daycare facilities. Worht checking out if it suites your location!

Toby Wells YMCA
5105 Overland Ave.
Tel: (8 496-9622

Hours of Operation
Mon. - Fri. 5:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Sat. & Sun. 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m

Kid's Place Sitting Service:
Mon. - Fri.
8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Sunday 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Toby Wells YMCA in Kearny Mesa

The Toby Wells branch of the YMCA is part of the San Diego YMCA, which includes the Mission Valley location and the Hazard Center Annex, as well as the Downtown YMCA. Yes, that's right, these are all under one membership!

The Toby Wells YMCA is located in Kearny Mesa, and for many people it is quite out of the way. But if you work in the area it can be a very convenient location for getting in a workout or class. (I would have said "if you live or work in the area," but who lives in Kearny Mesa?)

It is clear that this location caters to the working world of Kearny Mesa. For example, they offer 45 lunch time workout classes Monday through Friday! They have 45 minutes pilates classes Monday through Thursday, and they have 45 minute yoga Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. They also have some one-hour yoga classes, though if you only have an hour for lunch the 45 minute classes are already a tight squeeze.

They are also located next to "San Diego Spectrum," a generally geenric strip mall, but worth noting because they have some healthy lunch options like "Robeks" cafe and juice bar.

Toby Wells YMCA also has a pool, a hot tub, regular exercise equipment (you know cardio machines and weight machines, if you're into those things), and of course fully equipped locker rooms. They also offer childcare for up to two hours while working out, and full daycare facilities. Worht checking out if it suites your location!

Toby Wells YMCA
5105 Overland Ave.
Tel: (8 496-9622

Hours of Operation
Mon. - Fri. 5:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Sat. & Sun. 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m

Kid's Place Sitting Service:
Mon. - Fri.
8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Sunday 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

There are several places to eat in the hotel.

You can hang out by the pool and enjoy the beach atmosphere and cuisine of The Cabana Cove, which features bar and grill favorites like fish tacos, burgers, sandwiches, fajitas, salads and seafood.
  Harrah's is famous for their 135-item buffet, with  Mexican, Asian, Italian and American stations.Fiore's menu has a wonderful selection of appetizers, salads, soups, the best Certified Angus Beef® and the Pacific's freshest seafood and the finest wines that California has to offer.

Fortunes offers authentic Asian dishes, using the aromatic herbs and spices that make Asian cuisine vibrant, colorful and distinctive. They feature pan-fried noodles, soup noodles and barbecued and roasted main courses.

We ate at the Corner Grill. Jeff had a Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich with fries, and I had the Fish and Chips. Jeff's sandwich was thick with meat, melted cheese, peppers and onions. My plate came with three medium-sized pieces of fish which tasted good, and the fries were crunchy on the outside, potatoey on the inside. Just how I like-em.

They also feature a variety of shows and concerts. I highly recommend staying in this San Diego hotel and casino. Check out http://www.harrahsrincon.com/ for more information.

Mount Soledad is the highest peak of coastal San Diego. Mount Cowles is a little higher, but it's halfway to El Cajon.

Of course you have probably heard of the Mount Soledad cross, it seems to get more attention these days than the park itself.

Still, even in the shadow of the cross and this tedious on-going battle, the park is s beautiful palce to watch the sunrise or sunset, or even to catch some fourth of July fireworks (if you get there early enough). http://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif

It is a popular desitation for bike riders, riding up the steep hill is a great work out, and riding down is terrible fun.

Mount Soledad is on the highest point in between Pacific Beach and La Jolla.

There is a big grassy hill, a path around the edge that measures about half a mile.  On the north side there is a children's play area with swings, slides, and monkey bars, as well as fort-like structures and picnic tables.  There is a nice flat grassy area there as well, hwere you can almost always find people playing ultimate frisbee.

Behind the park is a maze of trails that are close to home, if you live in PB.  The trails are nice, truly off-road trails, hidden away from the neighborhoods that surround them.

Of course, it is always living in the shadow of Mount Soledad, where you can see downtown, the bay, the ocean, and La Jolla.

Kate Sessions Park is on Soledad Road, the entrance about three blocks north of Beryl Street.