Celebrating Valentine’ day in San Clemente, my wife and I wondered in to the Cellar for glass of wine. The atmosphere says Napa Valley with a much more laid back feel. The bar and sitting area was very nice, but it was 80 degrees, so we went to the patio. Our bartender “Katie” I believe was very nice and attentive. Not sure about her knowledge as she didn’t make many suggestions, but I don’t think I provided her the opportunity. We enjoyed two side by side flights ($15 each) from Chianti to Shiraz. The display was very nice with tasting notes. The Cellar also has a meet and cheese deli. For a small price our flights were paired with a variety of cheese from Spanish Cheddar to an over the top creamy blue. The only reason we only gave The Cellar four stars is because it’s not in the wine country. Otherwise the service, food, wine, and ambiance we’re excellent. We will return and would recommend you pay a visit if you’re ever in San Clemente.

My reviews are based on the overall experience with a focus on SERVICE. I spent 15 years in the restaurant industry and my wife is a former trainer for a national chain restaurant. My wife and I visited Terra during restaurant week and thought we found a hidden gem. However, disappointment began minutes after entering the establishment. The bartender was less than polite and too busy for his own good. We really enjoy eating at the bar, this will never occur at Terra. After being sat, we waited no less than 5 minutes before the hostess returned as she noticed the server had not been by our table. 5 minutes felt like an hour with an empty glass of wine sitting in front of me. Our server finally approached us, took a drink order and returned almost 10 minutes later. This is not a big establishment and the waiter was just too busy to perform adequately. Prior to our appetizers arriving, the owner/Chef Jeff Rossman, approached us. I informed him, things were not going well. Chef Jeff did a great job putting out the fire, he was very attentive to our needs and we really enjoy speaking with him. The dishes he provided were unique, well prepared and delicious. The server never bothered to apologize for his horrendous service. With so many restaurants in San Diego, I’m not sure if it’s worth the risk to ever return to Terra. Good food is just not good enough in this economic environment. I expect a good experience, good service and good food. One out of three is not enough for me. Good service is a part of the experience in which you have control as a restaurant. Proper training, proper staffing and proper observation by the manager is imperative and has never been so important. It is also missing at the majority of the establishments in San Diego. Grades: Food (A); Ambiance (B); Service (D); Price (B). Overall Experience (B-).

My wife and decided to visit Mama Testa following an episode of "Throwdown" with Bobby Flay. Ceasar Gonzalez "Owner" and his authentic fish tacos beat Bobby Flay's mahi tacos. The estabishment has a wonderful Mexican feel. The staff was busy, but never missed a beat. The service was outstanding from beginning to end. The fish taco's (fried catfish) were full of flavor, cook perfectly and did not disappoint. The server also suggested the Tres Cochonitos (Carnitas or PIG) which were outstanding. Thanks to Mama Testa for a fantastic experience, we'll be back regularly and I highly recommend who ever reads this review to do the same.