VDV FAV RESTAURANTS: HOME & AWAY
After many nights-in of takeout and Zoom happy hours these past six months, we all have been anticipating an evening on the town with friends over drinks and dining. As restaurants begin to open their doors, we all desire to rekindle with loved ones and enjoy an experience that makes 2020 feel a bit more normal. To make that decision a bit easier, we have found one of the cutest spots in the heart of sleepy beach town Encinitas for you to make memories and leave feeling happy and revived: Home and Away at the corner of D street and Highway 101. It comes at no surprise that this restaurant and bar not only have a great selection of food and local beers on tap, but their vibes are unmatched. The tall ceilings that echo upbeat house music and the open floor plan with spread out tables makes for a Covid-safe and enjoyable experience for all ages. The friendly staff creates a welcoming and “homey” experience that makes you never want to leave. They offer a diverse menu of pub style American, taco Tuesday specials, happy hour, and kids options. Their burgers are a popular local favorite as well as their Totchos, which comes with fresh tots, your choice of chicken or pork, cotija cheese, peruvian beans, house-made Home & Away salsa verde, sour cream, onions and cilantro. Taco Tuesday runs from 4pm-10pm Tuesdays with $2.50 tacos and $3.50 Mexican Beers. Happy hour occurs Monday through Friday from 4pm-6pm with $4 Thorn Brewing beers and $2.50 tacos.
From day to night, Home and Away comes alive in the night time. The lights turn down low as it transitions into a lively spot for millennials. For a change of scenery and a completely new vibe, head upstairs to their additional bar Aloha Cowboy, open only on the weekends. This speakeasy style bar has an entirely separate aesthetic. With cowboy western decorum and red lit ambiance, and a sign that reads I’m Here To Kick Ass And Drink Whiskey, you feel as if you’ve entered a wild west saloon with a modern twist. Their cocktail menu does not disappoint, from unique libations to a selection of top shelf liquor, where a popular “Bartender choice cocktail” includes The Black Daq, a coconut infused rum drink with lime, honey, and activated charcoal.
If you are looking for a place to unwind with friends, and by chance make some more as day turns to night, swing by Home and Away at their Encinitas location where the staff makes you feel like you’re home. Come for the good vibes and the even better tacos, and if you’re looking to end your night with something sweet, try Aloha Cowboys’ Banana in the Tailpipe made with Home and Away Makers Barrel, Islay Scotch, Banana-Cinnamon Cordial, and Whiskey Barrel-Aged Bitters. If you're living further South, make sure to visit their Old Town Location where they’re open early for Sunday football season at 9:30am. Before you go and see for yourself, be sure to read through their covid regulations on their website and of course, don’t forget your mask - and your favorite Van De Vort accessory and statement bag.