Bacon Powder. Executive Chef Evan Cruz at Pacifica Del Mar in La Jolla, California starts our meal with a seared Scallop, California Avocado, Dungeness Crab and Bacon Powder. (above)
Bacon Powder? Why not just bacon? Because balance, like patience, is a virtue. Any more than a dusting of bacon would overwhelm the delicate scallop and crab. Crunchy bacon would interfere with the luscious texture of avocado. Chef Cruz and the meal he creates for the California Avocado Commission is as balanced as a high wire act.
The second course is a creatively presented Hearts of Palm, Hamachi, California Avocado Dressing.
The third course is Chef Evan’s homage to Thanksgiving Dinner. Free Range Chicken, Glace, Brioche, California Avocado Oil. In case you’re wondering, I didn’t miss the green bean casserole one iota.
The fourth course is Short Ribs, Chimichurri, Charred California Avocado. If it looks impossibly tender and rich, it’s no illusion.
Dessert is Lemon Curd, Pistachio Cake, California Avocado Foam and Gelato. Not a big fan of pistachios, I am a big fan of Chef Evan’s Pistachio Cake. And after this California Avocado inspired menu, I am an even bigger fan of Chef Evan Cruz and Pacifica Del Mar.
You see, this is not the first time I’ve experienced Pacifica. In fact, Pacifica is a special occasion destination whenever I’m in San Diego. We are a family of seafood lovers and Pacifica has been awarded the prestigious Gold Medallion for Best Seafood Dining in San Diego. The Mustard Catfish is a favorite from the regular menu. And the patio? Well, that’s where you’ll find me. (photo credit Pacifica Del Mar)
Read more about my trip to California Avocado Country here.
Special thanks to Chef Evan Cruz, the California Avocado Commission and Golin Harris for this exquisite dinning experience.
Special thanks to Susan, Jennifer, Darlene, Mary-Frances, Hong & Kim, Christie & Bryan, Bonnie, Matthew, Andrew, Whit, Kiaran, Lisa, Jillian, Jan and Charley for making this trip so fun!
Heidi from Savory Tv says
Bacon powder? I’m in! All of the avocado dishes look beautiful, and I’m putting Pacifica’s patio on my “must visit” list for my next visit to San Diego! Thanks for sharing your adventure! xo
Laura @ Family Spice says
Girl, I live 15 minutes away from this place! Love Del Mar! Pacifica is a great restaurant. Have to ditch the kids and take the hubby there again. Now I must get me some bacon powder! LOL!
Lori @ RecipeGirl says
Sounds like it was a fun trip! LOVE avocados in every shape and form!! Okay, but next time you come to San Diego, you must give me a holler!! Bacon powder… sounds like something I need to investigate.
Average Betty says
Heidi, Well if you’re headed down this way you better put my place on your must visit list too! I’ll make bacon powder ;)
Laura, you do live in the pocket of luxury! Love it down there, that area is gorgeous. Ditch the kids and get the mustard catfish :D
Lori… I too love avocado in all its shapes and forms! I know… we need to have an LA – OC – SD meetup!!
Thanks for dropping by, ladies :)
Kitchen Runway says
BACON POWDER?? I need this! :) I love avocados and the courses all look so fresh and vibrant! I’m in for an LA – OC – SD meet up!!