Balboa Bakery + Olivier salad from the market next door

D wanted to pick up her favorite salad at Balboa International Market...

At the deli counter, we were told the salad would be ready in half an hour..

Lake Lindo Grill

We visited Bert's mom in Lakeside earlier today and after our visit,

decided to have lunch at a local Middle Eastern place a few minutes away....

Turkish Delight from Balboa International Market and Harvest International Market

Last week Bert and I had some free time and decided to check out a new ethnic market...

I'd just read Cathy's recent post on Balboa (linked at the end) and remarked to Bert that we should check it out.

It's kind of hidden on Balboa Ave (behind Mr. Fish and Chips) and in the same strip mall with Mysterious Galaxy Bookstore and Sufi Mediterranean Cuisine...

Snacks from Harvest International Market

Yesterday I thought I would get some Christmas shopping done at an ethnic grocery store I hadn't yet been...Harvest International Market in Clairemont.


This used to be North Park Produce...

Return to Sahara and sweets from Pistachios

Earlier today I met up with MFH in her part of town...

We watched a movie. Yes, THAT one. I'm debating within myself whether to post my verbal diahrrhea on it. Or not.  For the time being. Not.  Suffice it to say, we enjoyed the movie especially the unintentionally hilarious moments. Lunch was enjoyed afterwards across the street from the theater...

Return to Ranas & Pistachios

The winter break was really great because not only was I able to go out and enjoy the weather...

but it gave me the chance to try old favorites with some friends...

Pistachios Sweets

This past weekend took TC, her friend KDD and I into MFH's 'hood near Rancho San Diego...

We were there for an event at the local library and made a quick stop here, at the corner of Jamacha Rd. in the lot with the 7-11....

Valley Foods

After our satisfying lunch at Sammoon, Cathy took me on a mini tour...

El Cajon has quite a diverse community and their eateries and markets reflect the population and their needs...

Dessert at Shakira

Ay, ay, ay, Shakira!

Okay, not this Shakira!

With a pastry store right next to Nahrain, we couldn't help but peek in...

to see what delicacies awaited us...

King of Nablus Sweets

Well, what have we here?

Crisp, flaky, drenched with honey and nuts...(drool)