The Best $20 salad

That’s right, a $20 salad. The dressing had better be made of gold, you say? Probably not, but if liquid gold were edible and good for you, that’s exactly what it would taste like. Technically the “small” size is only $14, but it simply isn't enough. Really, what’s so special? The menu simply lists Rosemary Chicken Salad with Gorgonzola, served on a bed of lettuce with vegetables, cheese, pine nuts, our vinaigrette with a side of garlic bread. While the description is simple and somewhat vague, it is the “animal style” gold mine of secret menu items. The menu doesn't even mention the delightful, aromatic, warm wedge of house made bread that makes you believe that living on bread (if it’s their bread) and water is actually possible. The vegetables included are literally a miniature organic garden of broccoli, carrots, tomatoes, red onion, green bell pepper, cucumber, mushrooms, and of course the succulent rosemary chicken breast right on top! The secret house dressing is positively sinful and light and the same time disappearing all too quickly, but perfectly drizzled for each bite. Raw vegetables have never tasted so good!

300 Carlsbad Village Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92008
33.158962249756 ; -117.35095977783

Handmade Parmesan potato chips, Spicy Shrimp Fra Diavlo, a 12 oz. New York Steak, Supreme loaded pizza on of course homemade dough, there are no shortages of indulgences for all in the $20 range. The setting alone is private yet central, in the Village Faire on the upper level in Carlsbad. Their outdoor seating offers views of the village, ocean, and they still have their cozy fire lamps lit for the lingering chilly evenings. Gregorio’s offers a gourmet Kids Menu, Gluten free options (a rarity done right in authentic Italian cuisine), daily Happy Hour Specials and weekly specials such as this week’s Grilled Halibut or Grilled Filet Mignon.

The family atmosphere is genuine and the owners have been consistently supporting the Boys and Girls Club of Carlsbad by donating their entire years profit for 2010 and 2011!
If you have never been to Gregorio’s in the village of Carlsbad, you are missing out on one of Carlsbad’s best little secret spots, just don’t eat all the bread!

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, Carlsbad Restaurant Examiner

Tonya O'Dell is a resident in North County San Diego for the last 15 years, specifically Carlsbad. Writing has been a passion, not a profession for the majority of her life. Tonya is currently working on her first book, posts on several Food and Dining related blogs, as well as her own, and has...

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