Diningout 10 1 17 by High Desert Media Group

OCTOBER 1, 2017

DINING OUT

HEALTHY AND HEARTY Ninja Poki Yaki offers alternative to fast food

Page 8

Cross Eyed Cow Pizza

Page 11

El Salvador Del Mundo

Page 16

DINING OUT

Sunday, October 1, 2017

From the editor’s desk

f you drive around the High Desert, you’ll notice fast food is king. The number of fast food restaurants is unbelievable. There seems to be one on every corner on every block of our major thoroughfares. I get it, too. Fast food is, well, fast. It’s usually cheap, too, which can be enticing to families with several children. Grab the grub and go without whacking your wallet. But the flip side is obesity and diabetes are rising throughout California. A steady diet of fast food may be convenient, but it isn’t necessarily healthy. Back in the day, families didn’t eat out as much, and they weren’t on the go as much as today. Moms usually stayed at home and took care of the kids and cooked most meals. Healthier fare was part of the nightly dining experience. We kids may not have liked to eat all those vegetables, but we often didn’t have a choice. I understand why more families eat out nowadays, but I’m happy to see there are more and more healthy options for dining out too. One of those options is Ninja Poki Yaki, our cover story this week. The Apple Valley restaurant may be best described as a healthy fast food restaurant. The owners realize people don’t have a lot of time for lunch or dinner, but they’ve come up with quick, healthy meals that anyone can enjoy. The best part is you can have it your way at Ninja Poki Yaki. Pick your ingredients and enjoy lunch or dinner without having to worry about taking years off your life. Talk about a win-win! — Steve Hunt

DINING OUT From the editor’s desk �� 2 Weekly specials �� 3 Happy Hour specials �� 4 Where to dine �� 5 Catering halls �� 6 Tea traditions �� 7 Ninja Poki Yaki �� 8 Food in photos �� 10 Cross Eyed Cow Pizza �� 11 Food in photos �� 12 Restaurant grades �� 14 El Salvador Del Mundo �� 16 Dining Out is published by the Victor Valley Daily Press, 13891 Park Ave., Victorville, CA 92392. Copyright 2017. All rights reserved.

Editor Steve Hunt Advertising Manager Lisa Woodhart Contributing writers Kathy Young Martial Haprov Steve Hunt Contributing photographers James Quigg, Janice Osborn, Kathy Young, Lisa Woodhart Cover and page design Ivan Hundric Copy editing Steve Hunt To advertise, call Lisa Woodhart at 760-951-6253.

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Thursday

Trio combo meal Turkey burger

Friday

Fries Flourless cake

Saturday

Monday: Half off sprinkles A1 Grill, Teriyaki Tuesday: $1 French macand Roll arons Wednesday: Buy 1, get 1 Daily Deals Buy one specialty roll, get half off, jumbo cupcakes second roll 50 percent off (with coupon in this publication only!) Burgerim

Baconballs Cupcakery Daily Deals

Daily Deals Monday

Merguez Burger in a combo meal or a la carte Marshmallow Dream

Salmon burger Chicken strips Chicken sandwich Salads

Sunday

Salmon burger Chicken strips Chicken sandwich Salads

Cross Eyed Cow Pizza

Daily Deals

Monday through Mile High Cafe Sunday: Lunch specials — Daily Deals mini pizza, 2 toppings with Monday through soup or salad $11.95 or half Sunday: sandwich with soup or salad Daily breakfast and lunch $10.95 specials

El Salvador Del Mundo

Ninja Sushi Daily Deals

Daily Deals

Monday through Sunday: All sushi and rolls 50 percent off (all day)

Firehouse Subs

Shakey’s Pizza

Wednesday Pupusa $1.99 all day

Daily Deals

Wednesday: Kids eat for 99 cents

Los Domingos

Apple Valley and Barstow

Daily Deals

offers)

Monday: Buy 2 regular adult price buffets, get 1 kid’s buffet (3-7) free or (8-11) half price Tuesday: Military extra 10 percent off with military ID Wednesday: Senior 65+ extra 10 percent off Thursday: Buy 4 regular priced adult buffets, get 1 adult buffet free Friday: Buy 9 regular priced adult buffets, get 1 adult buffet free

Sunday, October 1, 2017

DAILY SPECIALS

Wednesday

Wagyu beef burger Chicken wings

Taco Tuesday (Apple Buy one medium pizza, get Daily Deals Monday through Friday: Valley only): $2 full-size tacos the second 2-topping medium Wednesday: half-priced pizza for $7.99 2 slices with 2 toppings and a margaritas, 3 to 8 p.m. drink for $6.95 S u n d a y : Champagne W Spoon Buffet brunch, all you can eat, 9 a.m. Di Napoli’s Daily Deals (cannot be to 2:30 p.m. ($13.95 adults, $7.95 kids) combined with any other Firehouse

Wood Grill Buffet

Daily Deals Monday - all day Taco Tuesday: after 4 15-inch large one-topping thin crust pizza for $9.99 with p.m. Wednesday: Wing Night the purchase of a pitcher of after 4 p.m. beer or 4 soft drinks. Friday: Seafood Night after Monday through Sunday: 4 p.m.

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Tuesday

Trio combo meal Turkey burger

DINING OUT

Sunday, October 1, 2017

Monday - Thursday, 3 to 8 p.m. Friday - Sunday, 5 p.m. to close $4 well drinks, $1 off wine, $1 off beer 20 percent off appetizers at bar only

$2 Beers (Bud Light & $2 Tacos (Chicken & Beef) Coors Light) Tuesday, 3 to 7 p.m.: $4 Shots (Jager Bombs Drink specials & Cactus Coolers) Wednesday, 8 p.m. $2 Tacos (Chicken & to midnight: Family kara- Beef) oke (Apple Valley only) and drink specials Mile High Cafe Thursday, 5 to 8 p.m., Happy Hour Firehouse Subs bar only Taco Tuesday, 4 to 9 NFL Football p.m.: $2 tacos, $2 enchiHappy Hour Package ladas, beer specials Monday through $2 Beers (Bud Light & Sunday, 2 to 5 p.m. Coors Light) Any small sub + chips + Ninja Sushi $4 Shots (Jager Bombs small drink $5.99 Happy Hour & Cactus Coolers) M o nday through $2 Tacos (Chicken & Sunday: Large beer, 2 Los Domingos Beef) Apple Valley and Barstow Friday, 8 p.m. to mid- for $7; small beer, 2 for Happy Hour night: Karaoke (Apple $3.50; small sake 99 Monday, 5 to 8 p.m., Valley only) and drink spe- c e n t s ; S a k e B o m b 9 9 cents (with $10 minimum bar only cials A1 Grill, Teriyaki daily (with coupon from this food order) NFL Football Saturday , 8 p.m. to publication only!) and Roll midnight: Live band Package Happy Hour Sunday, 4 to close, bar Shakey’s Pizza $2 Beers (Bud Light & Di Napoli’s only 20 percent off on teriyaCoors Light) Happy Hour Firehouse NFL Football ki bowls and specialty rolls $4 Shots (Jager Bombs Monday Night, 5 p.m. to close: Package Happy Hour from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. & Cactus Coolers)

HAPPY HOUR

SPECIALS

9-inch small one-topping thin crust pizza with 6 wings for $12.99 Monday through Friday, 3 to 6 p.m.: Under $5 menu: mojo potatoes ½ order $.99,cheesy garlic bread ½ order $2.49, pepperoni pizza twists 4 twists for $2.99, boneless chicken wings with choice of dipping sauce $4.99, small 9-inch pizza one topping, thin crust $4.99 Pint $2.99, 22-oz super mug $3.99, Lime-A-Rita or Straw-ber-Rita $3.99

Wood Grill Buffet Happy Hour

Monday through Friday, 2 to 4 p.m. S e n i o r H a p p y H o u r, $8.99

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SUBS & SALADS

Firehouse Subs 13325 Main St., Suite 108, Hesperia 760-983-5512 www.firehousesubs.com

Serves Alcohol

Breakfast

Brunch

Catering

SALVADORIAN

Dinner

Happy Hour

Online Ordering

Apollo Burger

14950 Seventh St., Victorville 760-245-4900

Burgerim

The Mall of Victor Valley, 14400 Bear Valley Road, #701, Victorville 760-243-4494 www.burgerim.com

D C Mile High Cafe

8832 Orange St., Hesperia 760-947-8844

Wood Grill Buffet 14135 Main St., Hesperia 760-981-4418

D C A

D C

Baconballs Cupcakery 10326 E Ave., Hesperia 760-881-9956

W Spoon Buffet

H O

A1 Grill, Teriyaki & Roll 15061 Bear Valley Road, Hesperia 760-949-8900 www.a1grill.com

D C

ITALIAN

Cross Eyed Cow Pizza 19242 National Trails Highway, Oro Grande 760-241-1987 www.crosseyedcowpizza. com/

D C

JAPANESE

Ninja Poki Yaki 17878 Wika Road, Apple Valley 760-646-9966

D C

DESSERTS

HEALTHY

14120 Bear Valley Road, Suite 103, Victorville 760-952-0010 www.shakeys.com

El Salvador Del Mundo 15329 Palmdale Road, Suite J, Victorville 760-241-8308

WHERE TO DINE

D C

Ninja Sushi 15850 Apple Valley Road, #116, Apple Valley 760-242-3913

D C

MEXICAN

Los Domingos Di Napoli’s Firehouse 17856 Wika Road, Apple Valley 760-242-5802 www.dinapolisfirehouse. com

D C

Shakey’s Pizza

17790 Wika Road, Apple Valley 760-946-5344 www.losdomingosapplevalley.com

D C A

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AMERICAN

14689 Valley Center Drive, #C, Victorville 760-241-0900

D C

Sunday, October 1, 2017

SYMBOL KEY

DINING OUT

Sunday, October 1, 2017

Host a successful event with the help of a catering hall or restaurant

pecial occasions often call for special venues. Catering halls and some restaurants with them are capable of hosting big and small parties, making them worthy of consideration for hosts looking to impress. While catering halls are most often associated with weddings, such venues can host everything from birthdays to religious rites of passage to anniversary parties and more. Catering hall staff can guide clients through the booking, preparation and hosting of their events. Many party hosts prefer to leave much of the hosting work to the professionals, feeling it reduc-

es the stress associated with hosting while ensuring hosts they will have the time to mingle with guests and enjoy the festivities. Working with a reputable and reliable caterer or restaurant owner is the first step toward ensuring a party will be successful and enjoyable. The following tips can help anyone develop a good relationship with a caterer en route to hosting a fun and memorable party. • Think about the size of the venue. Catering halls can cater to parties of various sizes. When choosing a venue for the party, hosts should keep the comfort of their guests in mind. Guests

should be able to move around and not feel as though they are sitting on top of one another at the tables. Halls can be too big as well. Rooms that are too large for the guest list can feel uncomfortable and make guests feel isolated. • Develop a budget.

Budget should factor into hosts’ decisions regarding a catering hall. Speak with the catering manager prior to booking and be sure that there is a package that will fit into your budget. When examining catering packages, hosts can discuss if certain substitutions or amendments

can be made to packages to meet their needs and the needs of their guests. • Consider the banquet hall location. Proximity to public transportation, highways and hotels is an important consideration. Guests should be able to get to and from the venue with ease. Try to find a catering hall that is not too far from home. This way you can communicate with the banquet manager and be able to pop in to drop off centerpieces and favors easily or handle any other last-minute issues that pop up. • Explore the amenities. Amenities, such as outdoor gardens or gazebos for photo opportunities, can add to the expe-

rience of throwing a party at a catering hall. Hosts should compare amenities at the catering halls they’re considering, and factor in the benefits of having those amenities versus the disadvantages of choosing a venue with no such offerings. • Don’t forget the food. Food should not be overlooked when choosing a catering hall. Be sure to taste test the menu to determine if the food is up to par. Catering halls can be beautiful, but the food should meet hosts’ expectations as well. Finding the right catering hall requires hosts to consider the venue, their budgets and a host of additional factors.

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ne of the oldest beverages known to mankind, tea in its various forms is enjoyed across the globe. Believed to have originated in China, tea has been consumed for millennia. Some attribute its discovery and invention to Chinese emperor and herbalist Shennong in 2732 B.C. Legend says that the emperor liked his drinking water boiled so it would be free of pathogens. One day, on a trip to a distant region, a leaf from a wild tea bush fell unnoticed into the boiled water presented to the emperor. The emperor found the flavor refreshing, and tea was born. Today, tea is consumed for pleasure and to ease sore throats and other ail-

ration of tea. The Chinese Tea Ceremony brings about peace, tranquility, enjoyment, and truth. The art of making tea is called “Cha do,” and the Chinese take tea seriously. The Emily Post Institute says tea is heavily incorporated into all aspects of China The Chinese empha- Chinese life. Tea is served size the flavor and prepa- with the same care for ments and has even been used as a medicine. It also has been ingrained in traditions and customs from around the world, with the beverage varying in significance from country to country.

service that is applied instead of single-use teawhen serving wine in bags in a cup. other countries. Russia Britain Many Russians also Tea is often associat- love tea. Tea was once ed with England, and considered an upper-class the British fervor for tea product, but it is now helped spread it to the enjoyed by Russians of New World. While tea various means. Zavarka, only arrived in England a very strong tea that can in the 1600s, the counbe enjoyed for several try embraced it, making rounds, is very popular in “afternoon tea” a popular tradition. The traditional tea hour was between 4 and 5 p.m., when tea was served as a light refreshment between lunch and dinner. There also are specific ways to prepare and serve English tea, such as pre-warming the teapot and preferential use of loose tea or larger tea bags in a teapot

Russia. India T h e E m i l y Po s t Institute offers that India is one of the world’s largest tea suppliers, and the population consumes more tea than any other country in the world. Chai is the national drink, and hosts often serve a spicy milk-tea to guests.

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Tea traditions vary throughout different parts of the world

Sunday, October 1, 2017

DINING OUT

Sunday, October 1, 2017

Finding freshness in flavorful fish and veggies Ninja Poki Yaki in Apple Valley offers a heart-healthy, quick alternative to junk food

By Martial Haprov For Dining Out

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A shrimp bowl is presented in traditional style at Ninja Poki Yaki in Apple Valley. James Quigg, Dining Out

PPLE VALLEY — In a world full of junk food, Gary Soh’s first mission isn’t to fill bellies. “We want to make customers happy, but our main goal is to make them healthy,” Soh told Dining Out last week from the dining room of his Ninja Poki Yaki, which opened about six months ago. Soh’s wife is a nurse who works with patients struggling with diabetes and heart-health issues, many of whom are also on dialysis. The Sohs saw an opportunity to help curb the problems. “Why are so many people — in their 20s, their 30s — why are they in bad health?” Soh asks. “They’re going out in the middle of the night, eating junky food, being bad to their bodies.” Poki, pronounced po-kay, in Hawaiian means “to slice or cut.” In this instance, it refers to a raw fish salad that combines the fresh-cut fish, veggies and other toppings that add flavor without adding many calories and virtually none of the “bad stuff.” A Poki bowl is typically packed with heart-healthy protein and bright nutrients that can be filling but promote a wise alternative to a greasy burger or slice of pizza. So after success at their traditional sushi restaurant on the south side of Highway 18 in Apple Valley, they eyed opening another restaurant with similar cuisine but prepared and served in a way that aims to be a healthy alternative for those who may not have a lot of time during their lunch hour or on any given day. “A lot of people only have 30, maybe 45 minutes for lunchtime, not a lot for dining,” Soh says of the new restaurant on the north side of Highway 18, just across the parking lot from DiNapoli’s Firehouse and a Valero gas station. “That’s why we started this one. It’s good for the heart. And the food is fresh.” Freshness is a remarkable part of the identity at this location. Soh purchases the fish used in their dishes every other

You can add whatever items you like to your plate at Ninja Poki Yaki. Choose from vegetables, rice, seafood, pineapple and more, and complete your meal with delicious sauces. James Quigg, Dining Out

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day. And every morning, Soh gets up at 4 a.m. and drives to Los Angeles to purchase fresh veggies to go with the fish in their signature Poki bowls. “I put a couple hundred miles on my van every day,” he says, all in his commitment to bettering the health of the entire High Desert, one Poki bowl at a time. The process of getting a bite to eat here is measured by the eater’s preferences. Similar to how one would pick bread, cheeses, meats and toppings at a sub sandwich shop, Ninja Poki Yaki customers go through each category and pick what suits their palate. Start with type of rice, then select protein — three or six scoops depending on the size, or one scoop of three or six different types — then it’s veggies and herbs and finally you can pick from a number of sauces typically seen and tasted in and on traditional sushi rolls. Soh prefers to eat a simple Poki bowl with one type of fish — here, referred to as a protein — a simple combination of veggies and no sauces. But most of his customers, he says, like to combine flavors and create a unique dish each time they dine here. While “Poki” refers to the salad, “yaki,” Soh says, refers to a combination of raw fish and veggies being served on skewers. It’s been part of the plan all along to offer skewers in this style and he’ll be rolling out that option soon, he says. The restaurant may focus on healthy options, but there are a few specials available here that may appeal to those also interested in an accompanying libation. Soh says those specials include $1 beers, saki bombs and more for those who are eating here too. And signature sushi rolls from his location across the highway are available here too for 50-percent off the original price. Ninja Poki Yaki is at 17878 Highway 18 in Apple Valley, at the northwest corner of Highway 18 and Apple Valley Road. Call them 760-646-9966 for more information including specials and operating hours.

Sunday, October 1, 2017

DINING OUT

Sunday, October 1, 2017 Ninja Poki Yaki also has sushi rolls, such as this Spider Roll with tempura shrimp. James Quigg, Dining Out

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Sunday, October 1, 2017

DINING OUT

A wonderful selection of pizzas, sandwiches and sides, with “soup to come” at Cross Eyed Cow Pizza. James Quigg, Dining Out

By Kathy Young Dining Out

fter what seems like a forever summer with endless days of triple-digit temperatures, we are starting to experience milder days and cooler nights. For the season conscious, this signals fall. For the foodies, this means soup. Cross Eyed Cow Pizza in Oro Grande, already known as the premier

hand-crafted pizza parlor and home of outstanding hot and cold sub sandwiches made from bread fresh-baked daily, is prepping their kitchen for the return of their “Seasonal Cold Weather Soups” served October through March. That means starting today, soup’s on. Several flavors are available daily — the menu changes, and you can see the soup of the day on the serving counter.

The soup recipes are standard favorites with Cross Eyed Cow “tweaks,” all homemade and guaranteed to make you happy. We cast our vote for their Basil Chicken Noodle. The standard menu features new items regularly — try Roy’s Hot Rod Pizza with pepperoni, jalapenos and pineapple or the Mayor Joe’s Sub, named after the unofficial mayor of Oro Grande, Joe Manners. It’s a chicken salad sandwich with crai-

sins, cashews, lettuce and tomatoes, served cold. Several items sport names that befit Cross Eyed Cow’s historic Route 66 location as well as the fact that the building was once an automotive repair shop. The Ferrari Bruschetta joins the Bentley Bruschetta as one of the newer appetizers. And both join the Cadillac Cheesebread, available with jalapenos for an additional 50 cents. One of the subs with

an name change is the Portland Special, formerly TXI Special. It’s an open-faced sandwich with Italian sausage links and pepperoni with marinara, mozzarella and parmesan cheese. A favorite choice is the Daily Special, which is available all day — pizza (two slices) and a drink for $6.95 or half a sub, soup, small garden salad (pick two) for $7.50. Cross Eyed Cow Pizza is located at 19242

National Trails Highway, Oro Grande. Meet the crew and check out the pizza and sandwich menus on www.crosseyedcowpizza.com, find them on Facebook or give them a call at 760-241-1947. If you want something other than a salad with your pizza or sandwich at Cross Eyed Cow Pizza, opt for a cup or bowl of their homemade soup. After all, ‘tis the season. And watch for their food truck, coming soon.

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At Cross Eyed Cow Pizza in Oro Grande, the soup is on

DINING OUT

Sunday, October 1, 2017 The Mayor Joe sandwich at Cross Eyed Cow Pizza in Oro Grande is named after the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unofficial mayor, Joe Manners. Jim Quigg, Dining Out

These grains, herbs and spices are soaked to make Horchata, a healthful Salvadoran drink. Kathy Young, Dining Out

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A corn tamale with sweet cream is an El Salvador Del Mundo favorite. Kathy Young, Dining Out

Nothing Brings People Together like Good Food.

Sunday, October 1, 2017

One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.

Don't miss it! Dining Out!

Every Sunday - Get the scoop on where to eat in the High Desert.

VV-00060353

Be Rated Among the High In the High Desert Call Lisa 760-951-6253

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Uncork & Unwind

DINING OUT

Sunday, October 1, 2017

Apple Valley

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Juice It Up ��90 Yogurtland ��90 Apple Valley Arco AMPM ��97 Apple Valley Golf Operations ��95 Apple Valley Moose Lodge ��93 Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar ��95 Ashwood Golf Course Snack Bar ��96 Baskin-Robbins ��97 Carl’s Junior #165 ��97 China Wok ��95 Del Taco #1007 ��91 El Pollo Loco #3715 ��97 Golden Chopstix ��97 Historic Apple Valley Inn ��96 Jack in the Box #5400 ��94 Jimmy Johns ��98 KFC Apple Valley ��97 Linko Sushi ��96 Ninja Sushi ��90 Papa John’s Pizza ��93 Pieology Pizzeria ��98 The Pizza Factory ��96 (All grades provided by the San Bernardino County Spirit River Cafe ��97 Department of Public Health and represent the latest grade Starbucks Coffee #9873 ��97 given. A=90-100, B=80-89, C=70-79. To view restaurant Subway #38118 ��96 grades for yourself, visit www.sbcounty.gov/dph/ehsportal/ Taco Bell #28214 ��98 Facilities/Food) The Galley ��98 Wienerschnitzel #768 ��95 Adelanto 3D’s Bakery ��94 Adelanto Market ��93 Adelanto Senior Nutrition ��100 Adelita’s Tamales Mexican Food ��90 American Legion Post 229 ��94 Bargains R Us ��99 Baskin-Robbins ��90 Bellagio Club ��100 Bravo Burgers....#6 ��83 Carl’s Junior #39 ��91 Circle K #8644 ��91 Columbia Middle School ��100 Crisp Crust Pizza ��96 Del Taco #1000 ��93 Denny’s Restaurant #7840 ��94 Express Bakery ��90 Fat Boyz Grill ��93 Fresh Wok Chinese Fast Food ��90 JDS Fast Food ��93 KFC/Long John Silvers ��91 La Fiesta Pizza ��99 La Pizza Loca #1 ��91 Lee’s Donuts ��97 Little Caesar’s Pizza ��90 Migulelito’s Mexican Food ��90 Panaderia Azteca ��99 Raul’s Mexican Food ��94 Rubio’s Fresh Mexican Grill #220 ��94 Saul’s Produce ��99 Saul’s Restaurant ��92 Starbuck’s Coffee #10429 ��96 Subway #39979 ��93 Thai Siam Restaurant ��90 The Flame Broiler ��91 VFW Post 94-10 ��92

RESTAURANT GRADES

Barstow

Barstow Community Hospital ��100 Barstow Senior Nutrition ��98 Barstow Station Ice Cream ��95 Barstow Station Subway ��92 Barstow Station McDonald’s ��92 Casa Jimenez ��94 Slash X Ranch Cafe ��97 Subway and Jumpin’ Juice & Java ��98 Viking Grill ��98 Alberto Mexican Food ��80 Amigos Mexican Restaurant ��96 Ample Korean Restaurant ��98 Arby’s ��99 Ate 8 ��97 Black Bear Diner ��93 Burger King (Main Street) ��98 Burger King (Montara) ��97 Canton Restaurant ��92 Carl’s Junior (Main St) ��96 Carl’s Junior (Lenwood) ��93 Chili’s Grill & Bar ��97 China Town Buffet ��93 Chipotle Mexican Grill ��93 Dae Ho Restaurant ��96 Del Taco #1 ��98 Del Taco #2 ��98 Del Taco #201 (Lenwood) ��90 Denny’s (Fisher) ��92 Denny’s (Lenwood) ��94 Denny’s (Main St) ��98

Hesperia

Casa Delicias ��94 Desert Barn Brewery ��98 El Torito ��100 Five Guys Burger & Fries ��100 Hesperia Golf & Country Club ��100 Hesperia Pizza Factory ��91 Jeff’s French Dips & Subs ��95 Juliano’s Italian Restaurant ��98 Thai-Lotus Restaurant ��94 Whiskey Barrel ��93 Yogurtland ��95

La Casita Mexican Cafe ��92 Little Caesars (Main Street) ��98 Little Caesars (Bear Valley Road) ��99 Louisiana Cajun Seafood House ��97 Molly Brown’s Country Cafe (Smoketree) ��92 Oak Hills Brewing Co. ��99

Victorville

Shakey’s (Bear Valley Road) ��98 33 Degree Frozen Yogurt ��98 Adelita’s Restaurant ��93 Ala AlDeen Restaurant ��91 Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar ��97 Arby’s (La Paz) ��94 Arby’s (Bear Valley Road) ��94 Archibald’s Drive-Thru ��92 Baja Fresh Mexican Grill ��91 Baja Taco ��94

A1 Grill, Teriyaki & Roll ��90 Arby’s ��96 Baconballs Cupcakery ��100 Baker’s Burgers (Main St.) ��97 Baskin-Robbins (Main St.) ��100 Burger King (Main St.) ��94 Burger King (Mariposa Road) ��93 Cancun Mexican & Seafood Restaurant ��94 Carl’s Junior (Main St.) ��95 Carl’s Junior (Bear Valley Road) ��100 Casa Jimenez ��97 China Palace ��97 Chipotle Mexican Grill ��100 Ciceros Pizzeria ��99 Corral Family Restaurant ��90 Country Kitchen Restaurant ��93 Domino’s (Main St.) ��97 Don Garcia Mexican Restaurant ��96 El Charro ��96 El Pollo Loco (Main St.) ��96 Fina’s Giuseppe’s Italian Restaurant ��92 Firehouse Subs ��95 Fresh Wok ��95 Fujisan Sushi ��96 Gloria’s Kountry Kitchen ��94 Golden Corral .Buffet ��93 Habit Burger Grill ��96 Hidden Tavern ��90 Italian Kitchen ��96 Jersey Mike’s Subs (Main Street) ��98 Katsunori Sushi ��92

Sunday, October 1, 2017

Desert Manna Ministries ��97 Diamond’s Pizza ��92 DiNapoli’s Firehouse ��99 Domino’s (Main St) ��100 Dunkin Donuts ��97 Fat Burger (Lenwood Road) ��91 Hana Grill (Lenwood Road) ��93 Idle Spurs Steak House ��91 In-and-Out Burger (Lenwood Road) ��98 Jack-in-the-Box (Main Street) ��94 Little Caesars (Main Street) ��91 Long John Silver’s ��97 Los Domingos ��97 Mr. Kabob ��95 Panda Express Lenwood ��94 Panda Express (Main Street) ��100 Pizza Hut (Armory Road) ��95 Oggis Brewhouse ��96

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DINING OUT

Sunday, October 1, 2017 A chicken and pork tamale from El Salvador Del Mundo rests on its plantain leaf “wrap.” Kathy Young, Dining Out

El Salvador Del Mundo serves food from the heart By Kathy Young Dining Out

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f you believe the kitchen is the “heart of the home,” El Salvador Del Mundo Restaurant and Pupuseria is going to be your kind of place. Owner and chef Marisol Rivas has taken that to her own heart. Her mother taught her to cook — the recipes made in her kitchen every day are from her family, which means they are traditional. We wager they will become your favorites, too.

Marisol believes the best advice she received from her mother was, “Always cook with love,” and she has imparted that advice to her employees as well. From the moment you walk into El Salvador Del Mundo for breakfast, lunch or early dinner, you will be greeted, seated, and treated as a treasured friend. From beginning to end, your meal will be nothing short of wonderful. Many traditional Salvadoran dishes are made from corn flour or

rice flour, which means much of the menu is ideal for those with sensitivities to wheat. The most popular Salvadoran food is the pupusa, a thick corn tortilla stuffed with cheese, meat (pork, beef, chicken) or refried beans or a combination, then topped with a spicy, vinegar-based condiment of shredded cabbage, carrots and other vegetables. Known as curtido, the topping adds a nice “bite” to the pupusa and filling, and if you want to turn up the heat, ask for sliced jalapenos, a

popular garnish for many Salvadoran dishes. Empanadas are stuffed flour tortillas that can be “main course” fare; in El Salvador, empanadas are also dessert, typically fried plantains served with sweet cream. Chicken and beef stews and soups are also popular Salvadoran menu options. A popular dessert is fried plantains (bananas). For a real taste treat, definitely try El Salvador Del Mundo’s signature tamales, cooked in a plan-

tain leaf, which is peeled open to become the serving “piece” on the plate. The tamales are filled with chicken, pork, and vegetarian selections like corn or beans and are often served with sweet cream. Order several of them and you have a wonderful light lunch or dinner. Salvadoran cuisine is also known for wonderful “waters” and other refreshing drinks. As much for health as for hydrations, these drinks include Horchata, a sweet

herb and spice-based drink; tamarind, and a wonderful fruit drink, ensalada de frutas. If you’ve never tried S a l v a d o ra n c u i s i n e, you are missing out. El Salvador Del Mundo Restaurant and Pupuseria is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily except for major holidays. The address is 15329 Palmdale Road, Suite J, Victorville — the former location of The Brass Pickle Deli. Call them at 760-241-8308.