Mendocino Farms, a Los Angeles-based gourmet sandwich and salad shop chain, opened their second San Diego location in Del Mar Highlands Town Center a few months ago.
There is also a Mendocino Farms in La Jolla located inside The Shops at La Jolla Village. However, the Del Mar location is considerably bigger, spanning 4,000 square feet and replacing two spaces previously occupied by Carnitas’ Snack Shack and Nekter Juice Bar.
The restaurant is known for their chef-created sandwiches and salads, focusing on using local and seasonal ingredients. In addition to their signature sandwiches and salads, they also offer a variety of weekly sides, small batch soft serve ice cream and craft beers.
The restaurant has a “coastal bohemian” design, with a mix of indoor and outdoor seating, a living wall, and a play space for children.
“Not So Fried” Mary’s Chicken
This sandwich is filled with shavings of roasted Mary’s free range chicken that have been rolled in Mendo’s krispies, giving the illusion of fried chicken. It’s served on toasted ciabatta, with herb aioli, mustard pickle slaw, tomatoes, and pickled red onions.
I quite enjoyed this sandwich. The crispy rice really did make me think I was eating fried chicken but without all the calories. The herb aioli and mustard pickled slaw also added a lot of flavor to the sandwich.
Avocado & Quinoa Superfood Ensalada
I was a little disappointed by the appearance of the avocado we were served. The salad is made with butter & romaine lettuce, kale, quinoa, housemade superfood krunchies, black beans, roasted corn & jicama succotash, red onions, cilantro, Cotija cheese, grape tomatoes, and avocado. It’s served with a chipotle vinaigrette.
The protein packed salad was very flavorful. It’s rare that Mr. K will like eating a salad and he actually ate most of this.
After ordering your main sandwiches and salads, you make your way to the counter of weekly side specials which you can sample. We really liked them all, but managed to narrow it down to two.
Curry couscous
Summer Mango & Brentwood Corn
Overall, we enjoyed our visit to Mendocino Farms. The food we had was flavorful, fresh and felt a little healthier than our typical dining out experiences. It’s a great lighter lunch option and we plan on coming back to try more of the sandwiches.
Menu
Mendocino Farms
12873 El Camino Real, San Diego, CA 92130
http://mendocinofarms.com/
That chicken sandwich sure is creative! I really wish we had hip, healthy go-to places like this in AZ. Thanks for letting me live vicariously through you!
it is super creative and delicious!