Forever Fondue Offers a Touch of Swiss Culture in La Jolla

Forever Fondue is a unique place that offers a service that differentiates itself from other restaurants in the area. Located in the downtown district of La Jolla its customers consist of both locals and visitor foot traffic. If you have never had your dinner cooked from a fondue pot, this is your opportunity to try it.  There is nothing wrong with engaging in the unique from time-to-time just like your parents did in the 1960’s.

The restaurant has a variety of food options but centers around cheese, desert, salads and a main course. For two people the average price for a four-course meal is around $60. I ordered the $65 seafood combination that includes Mahi Mahi, Ahi, vegetables, mussels and salmon. By the time I finished the salad, cheese, main course and desert there really was not any room to eat anything else. This size meal might have been enough for at least three or more people.

The décor is traditional American with booths and table seating. There is a small bar in the back of the restaurant. At the time, I went it did not appear to be used or staffed but this may depend on the day. A host provided you with a seat and any beverages that you desire. Staff was friendly and dressed in simple server clothing of black pants and black shirt.

Fondue feasting is a slow process. One should not come and expect to be in and out within forty-five minutes. It takes a while for the fondue pot to heat to a steamy froth and each course is brought to guests in a leisurely manner.  If is a great place to frequent if you are looking to spend some time with your family or have a long conversation with someone. The fondue bowl provides something to play and fiddle with as you connect with others on the table. It is known as a communal pot for a reason.

The fondue dish was popular in the sixties and seventies as a party offering. Originally from Switzerland the fondue pot was used to melt cheese, wine and sometimes brandy. Stale pieces of bread or cheese were dipped and eaten in a traditional peasant style. The earliest known writing about fondue came from the Alps in a work entitled “To cook cheese with wine” around 1899.  In the mid 1960’s chocolate became an addition to the whole fondue experience. 

Forever Fondue

909 Prospect St #190

  La Jolla, CA 92037

(858) 551-4509

http://www.foreverfonduesd.com/

Krakatoa Coffee Shop on Golden Hill San Diego

Krakatoa in Golden Hill California offers an eclectic atmosphere where local artists and students gather to talk, work, and study. With plenty of seating, many bakery options, and a huge patio it is one of San Diego coffee shop patrons favorite places to spend time. Located a few blocks from Balboa Park and within a few miles of the Naval Hospital, zoo, and downtown it gets lots of visitor traffic.

The establishment is a coffee shop and café all mixed in one. They have a large selection of muffins, cookies, scones and other goodies that are simply delightful to try. Other items on the menu include exotic names like Vesuvio (egg sandwich) and Pinatubo(toasted telara). Perhaps you are interested in something healthier like hummus and pita or a mixed berry smoothie.  Their food selection is large enough for most interests.

Prices on their caffeinated drinks are affordable and under the costs of many competitors. A standard large coffee is $2.25 while a large mocha is also reasonably priced at $2.25. Add that to a $7.25 sandwich and you still fall under the $10 rule.  You can view Krakatoa’s beverage and food menu. http://www.krakatoacafe.com/menu.php

The atmosphere is relaxing in terms of seating options, aroma, and Internet access. It is possible to find couch seating, in-door seating and outdoor patio seating. Like many coffee shops, there is use for more plugs. Therefore, make sure you have a battery or are willing to wait for a place where you can plug in your computer.  Background music is light but lively so it provides additional mood enhancement for guests. 

Krakatoa appears to be trying to provide this artistic feel and design as a matter of strategy. You will notice the colors on the wall are bright and Southwestern in orientation. The building itself is a converted house which adds to the overall décor. Music and products have an exotic appeal that enhances its servicescape. One gets the impression they are in a tropical and exciting place. When positive feelings are associated with a business, it is likely to increase the overall customer satisfaction level. 

Krakatoa

1126 25^th Street,

Golden Hills California, 92102

619-230-0272

http://www.krakatoacafe.com/

Monday-Saturday 6:30 AM -8PM

Sunday 9:00AM-6:00PM