Restaurant Review

January 18th, 2007

Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens

by lyle e davis

The Arrogant Bastard!

Relax. We’re not attacking someone. That’s the name of the ale that Greg Koch and Steve Wagner, co-founders of Stone Brewing, have given to their most popular ale.

These maverick entrepreneurs have turned the business world on its head, developing a micro brewery that steadily has seen a growth in market share and acceptance of a thirsty public, and without spending a dime in advertising (much to the dismay of we advertising types).

Their latest adventure is to move their expanding brewery to brand new, gleaming facilities in Escondido, and to also convert a good size chunk of the new building into a very artsy-craftsy type of restaurant. Huge ceilings, very nicely decorated hall, internal landscaping and decor, all designed to sell an atmosphere, accomplishes its task.

Clever, artistic menus, with a wide variety of rather pricey items, well trained wait staff, and a comfy, somewhat elegant, yet still rustic, atmosphere, puts one generally at ease.

Heavy emphasis on natural and local foods here: regional beers and wines, produce, meats, breads and cheeses. Carlsbad mustard, Carlsbad mussels and clams, all types of coffees, teas and spices.

I found the prices a bit steep. We were served a large plate, to be sure . . . but $14.75 for a Buffalo Burger? $12.50 for a BLT?

It might be okay for an occasional visit, when you felt like splurging . . . or doing something a bit different, and pricey . . . I wouldn’t make it a weekly habit.

They make great beer, their food is good (did I mention pricey?) and it’s a good clean operation.

To show you just how arrogant the restaurant is (and I mean that in a nice way) . . . they don’t even have any signage outside their business! They are located in an industrial park at 1999 W Citracado Pkwy, on the northwest side of Escondido. They say “once you find us you’re a member of the family. You’ll find us again.” You can call them if you wish at 294-7899.