Some of the best Chinese food in the county is dished out in the surprisingly sophisticated atmosphere of this family-operated restaurant, which has been a local favorite for nearly two decades. Phoenix and Dragon is a popular house specialty, but you can't go wrong with any of the sizzling dishes. A piano player tickles the ivories at a beautiful white grand piano in the center of the dining room most nights, lending an elegant air to the nicely appointed restaurant. The menu of homestyle Italian fare includes a choice of 13 pasta preparations, six veal dishes and five chicken and seafood entrees, not to mention classic baked casseroles such as lasagne, manicotti and eggplant parmigiana. Pizzas range from 9-inch individual pizzettes with gourmet toppings to traditional pies.
Portions are generous enough to serve two.
Dinners are served with a choice of green salad or homemade soup. If your spirits need a lift, head for Rio Rico Mexican restaurant in Bonsall's River Village plaza. The decor is as bright as a tropical bird, the friendly staff welcomes you warmly, and the fare is excellent, nicely presented and moderately priced. Pat Stein is a Cardiff-based writer.