Fraisier Triple Berry Torte

Although this Penguin has lived in San Diego for years and has heard wonderful things about Extraordinary Desserts (ED), I had never visited. I enjoy desserts now and then--maybe suggest an extra spoon and share a few bites to finish a tasty meal--but I have never felt the desire to seek out a restaurant which seemingly offered the sole option of sweet treats.  I was mistaken for several reasons…

Benny and I ventured down to Little Italy to pay a visit to one of ED’s two locations. We immediately noticed the stylish design and Asian décor.  The calming atmosphere and feng shui interior was absolutely stunning.  ED features beautiful miniature trees decorated with lanterns and blooming flowers.

We were in such awe of our surroundings, we almost failed to see the plethora of stunning works of art on display behind the front counter—the main event.

I could not believe my eyes! Incredible coconut cream flan tarts, lemon berry cream brulee parfaits, chocolate pecan pie, lemon bars, mini chocolate bundt cakes blanketed by rich chocolate frosting—all delightfully adorned with colorful gold flecked orchids, roses, and daisies.  Almost too pretty to eat!

The menu at ED offered much more than we expected. A full wine and premium beer menu tempted us to order a bottle of wine to accompany our selections.  Our server Malena suggested a bottle of the Santa Julia Argentine Malbec.  This bottle of red was a full-bodied fruity combination of figs, plums, and blackberries with a blend of chocolate and vanilla. The taste was bold but not overpowering.

Appetizers choices included hummus, olives, bruschettas, fabulous cheeses, inventive grilled cheeses, and Panini sandwiches.  Benny and I decided that we had to try the mixed olive appetizer and split the rogue smoked blue salad and fontina grilled cheese sandwich. The kalamata and green olive mix was delicious. The fontina grilled cheese sandwich on levan bread with poblano peppers was a gooey delightful snack.

The true standout dish was the Rogue Smoked Bleu salad with truly astounding flavors. Crisp, organic greens with candied mesquite walnuts, hunks of roquefuert bleu cheese, topped with a French vinaigrette dressing was without a doubt the best salad I have ever tasted. I had to distract Benny from demolishing the entire salad himself by suggesting that he check out his choice of dessert.

As Benny perused the various desserts, the enticing aroma of freshly baked chocolate cake flowed from the kitchen. As my mouth watered uncontrollably, I quickly decided on my choice of dessert.  I chose a slice of the decadent ‘Viking’.  The cake consisted of a rich chocolate cake covered in a thick chocolate ganache with layers of chocolate and caramel crème brulee fillings sprinkled with toffee and nut bits. All of this with a light dusting of powdered sugar topped with a chocolate covered almond and rose petals.

Benny opted for a chocolate macadamia nut torte which was also covered in a thick chocolate ganache. A fresh orchid flecked with gold danced atop the slice. Neither Benny nor I could utter a word as we slowly savored each rich bite of cake in between long sips of the freshly brewed cups of cappuccino.

As our meal came to an end and our bellies fully distended, I knew that this is an establishment worth calling itself ‘Extraordinary’.

Owner Karen Krasne has created a true masterpiece in ‘Extraordinary Desserts’. The zen atmosphere coupled with innovative and enchanting food offers an encounter like no other restaurant in San Diego. Her mantra of ‘yum’ –a healing chant for the heart couldn’t be more precise. You must make the trip to Little Italy or to the original spot in Balboa Park to experience the incredible edibles.

Little Italy, San Diego

1430 Union Street (between Ash St & Beech St)

619.294.7001

Balboa Park, San Diego

2929 Fifth Avenue

619.294.2132

www.extraordinarydesserts.com

                                        

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