With its inviting entrance, tastefully decorated with large plants, cool tiles and rustic accents, a large outdoor patio with a lovely view Rio Rico is definitely worth a detour to Bonsall, a quiet suburban area of San Diego, California. Plus its three owners: Jacqueline Pearson, Christopher Pearson, and Cynthia DeCindis, are totally devoted to the goal of providing their guests with the finest Mexican cuisine experience, We had the pleasure of sharing lunch with Jacqueline and Christopher Pearson. We had “Calamari crisps “ as appetizer. No ring, no tentacles but large strips, cut right out of the main body of the calamari, in a very light beer batter, cooked and spiced to perfection. The best I had since my last visit to Spain. I had fish tacos for my main course. No breading, no frying, just char-grilled mahi mahi with shredded cabbage, cheese and creamy salsa.

My dining companions had a Tostada Grande Salad: crisp tortilla shell exploding with fresh shredded lettuce, beans, tomato, olives, cheese, guacamole, and sour cream along with Carnitas: tender chunks of very lean marinated pork, with guacamole, salsa fresca, and warm flour tortillas. Chef Jacqueline wanted us to try her “drunken fish” a very popular dish on the menu: grilled mahi mahi deglazed with tequila, Mexican crema and capers. My mouth waters just describing the dish, but none of us were up to it. Portions are pretty large at Rio Rico and we also had a dinner commitment. We will have to go back. For dessert we all had the delicious Rio Rico Flan: a silky egg and cream cheese baked custard with caramel sauce, whip cream and cinnamon.

On a regular basis Rio Rico offers a large choice of all traditional Mexican dishes. Various enchiladas: enchilada suizas with seasoned chicken, seafood enchilada. Fajitas con avocado: grilled chicken or beef with avocado, jicama, flour tortilla pockets, sour cream and salsa. Several types of burritos: Carne asada burrito, pollo burrito and many more favorites all prepared with your health in mind as much as your taste buds.

On weekends, Rio Rico adds to its menu, Paella, Baby back ribs and Carnitas. Full bar is available. Margueritas served in exotic fish design glasses are as pleasant to look as delectable. Rio Rico is a vibrant place. The wait staff is young and friendly and everyone aims to please. You can even add a little exercise to your South of the Border experience with dance classes every Tuesday night. Call for schedule or check the Web site www.Rioricocantina.com.

Rio Rico is located 5256 South Mission Road, Ste 1301, Bonsall Ca 92003 Tel (760) 945 1250. Hours 11:30 a m – 9 p m Sun-Thurs - 11:320 a m – 10 p m Friday & Sat. Free off street parking.

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Last Update:6/1/09