There are plenty of places in San Diego that pride themselves on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, but Whisknladle Hospitality has made something of a name for themselves between their upscale Whisknladle restaurant (in La Jolla) and more casual Prepkitchen (in Little Italy, Del Mar, and La Jolla). For me, Whisknladle was my introduction to California’s year-round fresh produce bounty; it was the first legitimate meal out we had upon moving to San Diego. (I’m assuming frozen Trader Joe’s pizza on the night we arrived doesn’t quite count.)
Prepkitchen recently celebrated its 5-year anniversary, and it just so happened to coincide with the La Jolla location’s brand spanking new patio. It’s a warm and inviting space, and a great al fresco option in an area of La Jolla without many. (Price-wise, it falls somewhere in between fancy-schmancy and your cheap neighborhood taco joint.)
Here’s a look at the expanded space and what you should order. Tempura, chocolate budino, and more ahead!
| Tempura green beans with a chili aioli: a huge hit with the table |
| Roasted beet and goat cheese salad |
| Warm white bean and arugula salad with shrimp: I don’t even like shrimp and I loved this one |
| Cheese board |
| Poblano torta with plantains, avocado, pico de gallo, and queso fresco—perfect for vegetarians |
| Dessert: Berry shortcake made with a bruleed lemon pound cake and chocolate budino with salted caramel gelato, which was my favorite of the two |
My meal at Prepkitchen was gratis, but as always, all opinions are my own.
That selection of food looks delectable! And their patio addition is quite beautiful, perfect for quiet nights and cozy days. I love vegetables soaked in tempura mixture, is the chili aioli too spicy?