Juniper & Ivy: Where Gastronomy Meets the Culinary Arts in San Diego’s Little Italy

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Juniper & Ivy, an upscale modern American restaurant located in the heart of San Diego’s Little Italy neighborhood. With its warm, stylish atmosphere and a menu filled with creative, delicious dishes, it’s no wonder that Juniper & Ivy has earned rave reviews from critics, locals and visitors alike.

Upon entering the restaurant, I was immediately captivated by the chic, contemporary design. The spacious dining area is adorned with a combination of rustic wooden tables and sleek, modern chairs, all accented by warm, ambient lighting. The open kitchen layout allows diners to watch as the culinary team meticulously prepares each dish, creating a sense of connection and anticipation.

The menu at Juniper & Ivy is an exquisite blend of traditional and modern techniques, with a focus on sourcing local, seasonal ingredients. The restaurant was established back in 2014 with Top Chef finalist, Richard Blais. The talented team at the helm are still dedicated to pushing the boundaries of American cuisine, and the results are nothing short of spectacular, receiving all kinds of accolades along the way.

Juniper & Ivy Main Courses

For our main courses, we opted for the Slow Roasted Short Rib and the Wild Mushroom Risotto. The short rib was incredibly tender, with a rich and savory flavor that was beautifully complemented by the accompanying parsnip purée and roasted baby carrots. The wild mushroom risotto was equally impressive, offering a symphony of earthy, umami flavors and a luxurious, creamy texture that left us wanting more.

Following the short rib, we were treated to the Alaskan Halibut, which was an absolute standout. Perfectly cooked and beautifully presented, the halibut was accompanied by a delectable medley of morels, fava beans, ramps, and a silky lemon beurre blanc. The earthy, tender morels and the fresh, bright flavors of the fava beans and ramps played off the succulent fish superbly, while the lemon beurre blanc added a velvety richness that elevated the dish to new heights. This harmonious combination of flavors and textures left a lasting impression, and we couldn’t help but marvel at the culinary mastery behind it.

We finished our meal with the Yodel, a whimsical dessert that features crispy chocolate wafers filled with a rich smoked chocolate mousse, and topped with a delicate caramelized white chocolate sauce. This surprising twist on a classic dessert was an absolute delight.

Throughout the meal, the service was attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly. Our server was more than happy to share recommendations, and her passion for the dishes was evident in her descriptions. The extensive wine list offers a diverse selection of varietals, and the sommelier was on hand to help us find the perfect pairing for our meal.

It’s no wonder that Juniper & Ivy has received numerous accolades and positive reviews. From the stylish atmosphere to the innovative menu and exceptional service, this restaurant truly delivers an unforgettable San Diego dining experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a memorable night out, Juniper & Ivy should be at the top of your list. Make sure to book a reservation, as tables fill up quickly.

Restaurant Contact Info:

• Address: 2228 Kettner Boulevard San Diego, California 92101
• Phone: 619.269.9036
• Website: https://www.juniperandivy.com

If you’ve ever dined at Juniper & Ivy in San Diego, please share your experience below by leaving a comment. So, until next time, we’ll see ya on the road…