Overview: Curbside Eatery + Drinkery
“We’re a craft bar and scratch kitchen. At least some part of every dish is made in our kitchen. Everything we serve is fresh; nothing is frozen except the fish,” Leek said.
At Curbside Eatery + Drinkery in the heart of La Mesa Village, owner Brenda Leek takes her years of experience in the hospitality industry and her love of food to a new level.
“I’m honored, humbled, and proud of what Curbside has become,” Leek said.
Many items on both their food and drinks menus pay homage to her mother, Rose, and her love of gardening, as well as food and beverages.
“We’re a craft bar and scratch kitchen. At least some part of every dish is made in our kitchen. Everything we serve is fresh; nothing is frozen except the fish,” Leek said.
While the food menu is extensive, two items would make Rose smile: “Mom’s” Burritos and “Mom’s” Tacos. Both feature ground Angus beef cooked with onions and peppers, melted cheese, and Pico de Gallo.
If you enjoy a burger, there are many to choose from, such as a mushroom Swiss burger or a spicy burger, or the newest item, a blue cheese burger. All features are locally sourced, with ground Angus patties as their foundation.
Kebabs are also prevalent on the menu, with options including surf and turf, tikka, chicken, and veggie plates.
Don’t forget the salads, especially in the warmer months.
New on the menu is a berry salad with mixed greens, fresh berries, feta cheese and glazed pecans, or a tri-color quinoa salad with freshly roasted seasonal vegetables. A citrus salad with sliced oranges, tangerines and grapefruit would be perfect on a hot afternoon.
If you enjoy brunch on the weekends, join them every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for a delicious start to your day. From a traditional breakfast of two eggs, bacon, and potatoes to French toast, a breakfast burger, or a Boulevard burrito, Curbside offers eight options.
“We’re not just a sports bar, even though we have the largest television in the village and multiple TVs throughout the restaurant. We’re a gathering place with outdoor tables and bar seating that faces the street,” Leek said.
The location is great for seeing your friends or neighbors as they stroll the boulevard or viewing events such as the La Mesa Classic Car show every Thursday evening in the summer or the La Mesa Farmers Market every Friday, 3-7 p.m., rain or shine. Don’t worry if you get chilled — they’ll offer you a blanket to keep warm.
In honor of Brenda’s late mother, Rose, try “The Rose”, a cocktail that features Tahoe Blue Vodka, muddled fresh strawberries and basil, and fresh lemon juice. On tap, there are many craft beers, seltzers, kombuchas, wines, and even mocktails to choose from.
They take service seriously and have a large staff who are always ready and willing to make their guests’ experience pleasant.
Pooches are welcome on the patio, as long as they are leashed and well-behaved. Moreover, the eatery doesn’t charge pesky surcharges and credit card fees.
Curbside Eatery + Drinkery is located at 8353 La Mesa Blvd. Phone (619) 303-8383.
Hours vary, but are generally from 10 a.m.-11 p.m. on weekends and 11 a.m.-10 p.m. on weekdays.
See the full menu at curbsidelamesa.com.