Reviews

So What Is This New Place Called Friars Folly Wine Cellar?

Fresh from the farm
By: CANDICE REED - For the North County Times

VISTA ---- The scent of sweet basil fills the air at Burnquist Organics, a small farm nestled in the hills of Vista. Owner Bob Burnquist is a world champion skateboarder, and the entrance to his home has arrows pointing to a skate ramp and to his organic farm. Locally, Burnquist Organics sells to Friar's Folly Wine Bar in San Marcos and the Four Seasons Resort Aviara in La Costa.

"Part of the reason we buy from them is because they're local and we have an organic theme here," said Chad Norman, executive chef for Friar's Folly. "They have, by far, the sweetest carrots, the most beautiful strawberries and carrots in a variety of colors. They really have a fantastic selection of organic produce." Read More . . .

A look at three wine outlets

Jim Scott - North County Times

Friars Folly, a wine and food outlet in the rear reaches of San Marcos Old Restaurant Row, is a surprising joy for all wine buffs. This is not a restaurant with a nice wine list, but an unusual wine shop that serves food ---- great food. Highly recommended. Read more. . .

'Friars Folly' on a mission in San Marcos

GARY WARTH Staff Writer

The bistro's name was meant to be whimsical and reflects the area's connection to Franciscan friars, said Ridley. "And it looks like a mission here already."

Executive chef Chad Norman was hired to create a tapas (appetizer) menu, which quickly grew to include larger portions. "He's really raised the bar," Ridley said. "I was just looking for some simple food."

The menu includes French baguette cheese breads, platters of fruit, cheese and meat, Thai-seasoned ahi tuna with wasabi sour cream, brandy Muscovy duck sausage and Moroccan lamb sausage and pate, chipotle raspberry barbecued New Zealand lamb chops and filet mignon.

Happy hour is in the court room from 3 to 6 p.m., and entertainment is offered nightly. Read more . . .

Friar's Folly to expand Restaurant Row's offerings

KATHERINE MARKS Staff Writer -

SAN MARCOS ---- Sandwiched between the Village Shops and a future fish market in Old California Restaurant Row is a place that could soon be a paradise for wine lovers. Read More...