excerpted from an online article at Epicurious.com


THE LODGE AT TORREY PINES' A.R. VALENTIEN RESTAURANT NAMED AMONG
TOP TEN FARM-TO-TABLE RESTAURANTS IN NATION
New Menu Concept Launched

AR Valentien, The Lodge at Torrey Pines, 11480 N. Torrey Pines Rd., La Jolla, CA 92037
(858) 777-6635

San Diego, California (October 2008)- Foodie website epicurious.com named A.R. Valentien one of the top 10 farm-to-table restaurants in the country. Chef Jackson was recognized for buying most of his ingredients at nearby small farms and food purveyors, promoting locally grown or raised animals, vegetables, herbs, and fruit. Reconnecting the farm and table increases available food nutrients, adds more natural flavor, and limits the human impact on the environment.

Always focused on excellent seasonal ingredients and simple preparation, A.R. Valentien launches a new menu that allows diners to customize their meals according to preference. Chef Jeff Jackson wants the diner to experience more of what he does in A.R. Valentien's kitchen. Divided into six sections, the new menu concept will help diners depart from the "traditional progression of a meal and better tailor their experience to their own preferences," says Chef Jackson. More choices mean reduced portion sizes and prices. No item is priced over $21. If desired, all menu items can be prepared and served family style for the entire table.

Six Menu Sections

  • Charcuterie: Homemade Pâtés, Terrines, Sausages, Mousses, Meatballs, and Pickles.
  • Vegetable Dishes: Seasonal selections prepared to enhance the uniqueness and maintain the integrity of locally grown produce.
  • Fish and Seafood: Local and West Coast varieties with an emphasis on the Baja region.
  • Meat and Birds: Beef, Pork, Lamb, Poultry, and Game Birds.
  • Artisanal and Farmhouse Cheeses: Small producers from California and other parts of the world.
  • Desserts: Handmade on premises.

The Artisan Table and Winemaker's Dinner
Continuing an exceptional tradition, A.R. Valentien presents Artisan Table dinners by reservation each Thursday evening. Seated and served family style, diners enjoy a selection of menu items in four courses: appetizers, main course, cheese, and dessert and coffee, along with wines selected by our sommelier. Guests can discuss the evening's menu and wines with Chef Jackson, Chef de cuisine Tim Kolanko, and house sommelier John Roth. The menu changes weekly, offering seasonal fare from the finest local providers. Once each month, the Thursday evening dinner party expands to showcase California's premier wineries at The Artisan Table Winemaker's Dinner. For reservations and information: (858) 777-6635.

The Lodge at Torrey Pines®, San Diego's only Five-Diamond resort, embodies the very best of Pacific Coastal living. Designed in the Arts & Crafts tradition of architects Charles and Henry Greene, The Lodge is a loving homage of California Craftsman architecture, emphasizing authentic materials and craftsmanship, respect for the natural landscape, and integration of indoor and outdoor living.


The Lodge at Torrey Pines® is owned and operated by Evans Hotels, San Diego. For reservations call 888-826-0224, or for further information contact Steve Pelzer at (858) 777-6706, spelzer@lodgetorreypines.com or visit www.lodgetorreypines.com.

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