Best Pre-Theater Restaurants in Kearny Mesa

Hello, our friends. Have been there many times, but not for thanksgiving, the day my father died. Over the years we have been to Ritz Carlton, George’s at the Cove, etc. Oh, and Inn at Rancho Santa fe. So, of late, we have traveled locally here to Paon. It is lovely, but getting too expensive. Recently at UTC, and thought Seasons might be a good choice. We even have two friends who felt they could afford to join in. All of had no children, so we enjoy having a “strays” holiday for us “only children”. Thank you as my husband called it a ‘magical night’ with frienda!

Food is great. We went for Thanksgiving. Service and food were prompt. Valet parking at hotel was easy and free with ticket validated from restaurant. It was clean and neat. The dining area was low light. Excellent experience.

I love The Prado at Balboa Park and have been a frequent diner there for many years. It never disappoints and Thanksgiving Day was no exception. We arrived and were immediately greeted and sat on the patio. I requested the patio. There were several diners but it wasn't busy, yet. We were brought water and our server Kara came over and took our beverage order and let us know about the new cocktails and the pre-fixe menu. She helped us make adjustments with what we ordered. Our first course, the beet salad, came out and we were able to eat and chat and enjoy each bit before our entrees came out. Mom and I had the traditional turkey meal and friend had the prime rib. We all tucked right into our meals and they were all so good. There was plenty of food and there was no way we could finish our delicious meals. Dessert was also packed up to go with our leftovers. More families had come in to dine and the energy on the patio was great. We sat and had another cocktail and had wonderful, relaxing Thanksgiving Day.

The good selections are very wide ranging with foods inspired by many culinary influences. I had the Rye Pirogi and the eggplant appetizer. Both were very tasty, except the onions on the Pirogi were not cut as thinly as a previous time I ate this dish and it made a difference. Definitely thin is the way to go. Service is impeccable and they also have yummy drinks.

The food, as always, was really great and they had gluten free and vegetarian options for those in our party needing it. This visit, our server did not return to our table to check on us until we were almost done eating and we needed water, drink refills, and condiments. Also for happy hour, you have to ask what they offer and they don't share a menu or offer up the deals even if you order the eligible items.