Review: Chef Claudette Zepeda goes global with fine, flavor-packed food at VAGA restaurant
Two years ago this month, homegrown chef Claudette Zepeda was forced to closed her year-old signature restaurant, El Jardin, in San Diego. Now, the Chula Vista resident is creating a new legacy at VAGA, a globally inspired restaurant in North County that looks, tastes and feels like a space where she can put down roots and flourish.
Operating since May at the new Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas in Leucadia, VAGA is a stunning ocean-facing restaurant with an open kitchen, a Zen vibe and a diverse menu that celebrates the bold, multilayered flavors that distinguished Zepeda’s cooking on Bravo’s
A platform for experimenting with new flavors and dishes, in addition to components of service, design and décor. Butternut squash is so good on its own, that hardly any seasoning is required. This recipe is so easy and straightforward. Italian sausage, bell peppers, and onions made simple on the grill. You may also serve the sausage in scorching canine buns and finely chop the veggies once grilled as a “relish”. I like to add a squirt of mustard after I serve them this manner.