A True Paleo Dining Experience

The physical and social benefits of CrossFit have been written about many times in this and other blogs, however one consistent drawback is the hassle we go through when eating out at a restaurant; seemingly every dining experience involves compromising our lifestyle by having a “cheat” meal or making substitutions to the consternation or downright ire of your server. That is all about to change; Alberto Mestre, the owner of Candelas Coronado, is partnering with Marc Homan of CrossFit Endurance to bring a host of Paleo friendly items to the menu, and I can tell you it is going to be great.

On Thursday I was treated to an entirely Paleo meal at Candelas Coronado (1201 First St, Coronado, CA 92118) – a beautiful location looking across the bay to San Diego. The chef, Eduardo Baeza, put together a series of dishes that were out of this world. The menu was:

A Salad of Hard Boiled Eggs, Asparagus, Artichoke Heart, Baby Tomatoes, Lettuce, Shredded Coconut and Raspberry with a Basil Vinaigrette Dressing

An Appetizer of Scallops, Smoked Salmon topped with Avocado marinated with Lime Juice, Onion, Jalapeño and Parsley.

Burritos filled with Chicken, Beef or Shrimp done with Peppers, Onion and Guacamole wrapped in thinly sliced Jicama served with either a spicy Habanera or a mild Chile Rojo Salsa

Chilled Soup made from Beef Stock, Avocado and a dash of Heavy Whipping Cream and topped with Green Beans and Almond Slices.

Crab Ceviche with Tomato, Onions, Cilantro & Jalapeño in Tomato & Lime Juice served in a half Avocado shell.

Duck Street Tacos done with Pineapple, Onion and Cilantro, with the traditional Corn Tortilla replaced with thinly sliced Jicama. This was complemented with a Nopales salad with Onion, Tomato in an Oil & Vinaigrette Basil dressing topped with bits of Charon (Fried Pork Rind).

Filet in Huajillo sauce with Bacon wrapped Baby Asparagus and Chayode topped with a Bacon, Asparagus, Cauliflower Mash.

Coconut Crème Brule made from Coconut Milk, Eggs, Shredded Coconut and a dash of Honey topped with fresh Raspberries and a spring of Mint. (No Picture)

Each and every item was exquisitely presented, tasted wonderful and Candelas is unbeatable for atmosphere. What does this mean for members of CrossFit Chula Vista Candelas’ has offered a 20% discount for gym members from now until September 18th, 2011. When you order let your server know you are from CrossFit Chula Vista then sit back and enjoy a wonderful dining experience without having to compromise your nutrition goals or fight with your server.

~Coach Rick