The Cork & Craft

The Cork and Craft -- outrageously good! That sums it up, but here's the wordy version... We eat out regularly, all around San Diego, and have had many outstanding meals (Juniper and Ivy, Herb and Wood, Trust, etc.), but in our three years here, this is the first time I feel absolutely compelled to post about a dining experience I consider a game-changer. I'd been seeking a special chef's-table evening in honor of my husband's big birthday, and Sean Renard, manager of the Cork and Craft/Abnormal Company, suggested their "Abnormal Experience," a wine- or beer-paired multicourse dinner. I chose the ten-course wine-paired (which they then turned into eleven) and even gave the kitchen-cringe caveat that I don't eat red meat. Executive chef Scott Cannon took that as an inspirational challenge and created the most stunning, thoughtful courses we've eaten in ages (and I say that having consumed a wide variety of dishes locally and internationally, with several years of living abroad). Chef Cannon gave the dinner perfect harmony, each course building on textures, flavor profiles, and sensations from the rest, and Sean ensured each wine selection played to the individual dish's components but also transitioned gracefully. To top it off, we had the large, counter-high chef's table, right at the pass, where we could watch our entire meal under construction -- amazing! I also can't say enough about the quality of service and management. We arrived early, and the place was packed within an hour, with a steady Saturday-night crowd, but we somehow felt as though we were the only people there, given the unbelievably attentive (but not cloying) service we received. The beautiful synchronous course presentations were performed by Sean, Chef Cannon, and our server (Albert), with brief discussions as to ingredients and wine origins. Dishes: Kumamoto oyster (perfect acidity, on an eye-catching bed of dry-ice, salt, and beach pebbles); beet salad (killer pear-chip/smoked-blue-cheese combo); caviar-topped coconut panna cotta on curry brioche (served in a bowl atop kaffir lime leaves and fresh ginger, which turned richly aromatic with hot water); duck-skin-topped ahi w/ avocado mousse and persimmon dashi gel (out-of-this-world textures and tastes); roasted veggies (upright roots, in a garden of pumpernickel powder "dirt" w/ maple-balsamic); roasted quail w/ apple-and-parsnip puree (major wow-factor in the flavor depth); wild mushrooms w/ fried chickpeas and a hint of kalamata (grilled/fresh, for texture); rock-seared scallops (on a huge hot stone atop fresh rosemary, whose steamy scent filled the air around us as we ate); smoked salmon w/ fried capers (multiple plays on acidity); squash crème brûlée (fabulous transition dish, served in a half-squash); sticky toffee pudding (crisp outer layer, delectably rich interior, with house-made vanilla-bean ice cream). And with all of that originality, they also have an array of comfort foods on their menu too, and the restaurant design has an upscale rustic charm, making it a place where I'd take foodie friends but also my parents -- the dishes are accessible on every level, fantastic and sophisticated without being fussy. My heartfelt thanks and highest compliments to the whole team of the Cork and Craft -- you knocked it out of the park and sent it hurtling to the moon, with food that's elevated, innovative, and delicious!

Staff was incredibly nice. I showed my ID for a beer they immediately noticed that it was my birthday and wished me a happy birthday. Had a very large beer menu. When I was ready to be seated in the dining area staff again was quick to get me seated and take my order. I had the mac and cheese and the bork belly. Both were delicious. I finished with the short ribs. They melted in my mouth and were also very tasty. Finally they brought out a plate that was decorated with a small cake that said happy birthday. With a complimentary drink that paired perfectly with it. I will be coming here again for dinner. I highly recommend to check it out.

I attended for a Yelp Elite Week event. My husband and I decided to go to Cork and Craft midweek. It was his birthday and it was a perfect day to get out and enjoy an nice dinner. We went way back when they first opened and there were just a few tall table tops and stools. I had a reservation for 5:45 and the restaurant was fairly busy but our table was ready when we walked in. I had my Yelp email up and ready to go but they did not see my name on the list. The staff was super friendly and very helpful though. They saw I had my pass and wrote me in and handled everything. We got one of the blonde house beers and a glass of pinot, both very light and tasty. I opted for the grilled peach and burrata salad while my husband went for the poutine and salt and pepper wings. The salad was good, very refreshing (especially during these hot Summer days). The peach was perfectly paired with a mild vinaigrette, creamy burrata, and grilled toast pointes. My husband liked the salt and pepper wings, they were light and crispy (he did say he wished there was a sauce of some sort on the side). He said the poutine was one of the best he has had. The short rib gravy atop crispy tater tots (his favorite) and a perfectly ooey gooey over easy egg on top. For desert he got the coconut bread pudding with a side of vanilla ice cream. Being the bread pudding coinsure he is he was quite happy with his selection. Cork and Craft is hidden in what looks like a small business park in Rancho Bernardo just off of the 15 freeway. There is plenty of seating inside and outdoors and lots of shade. The food was tasty and the staff was amazing, just an overall great experience.

Wow! This is a hidden gem! I had a fellow foodie tell me about the amazing food here, and I have been waiting patiently to enjoy it when I was in the area. I had to try the special, the pork ribs! It was covered with molasses BBQ sauce and accompanied by some delicious potato salad. The Lamb pita was executed perfectly with tzatziki sauce, basil, and tomato. It was super moist and tasty. Another dish that really stood out was the salt and peppered ribs, wow what a unique spin on ribs! They were to die for! I can't forget the burger as it towered in size, cooked to perfection, with a fat piece of bacon, cheddar cheese, Lettuce and thir secret sauce on a sof brioche bun! If you like burgers then you are going to love this one! Aside from the vast beer menu which surprised me with the uniquely created craft; the desert was so decadent and a must try! I tried the peanut butter torte, it was so rich and delicious! This gem has plenty of indoor and out door seating, and is a perfect place to enjoy some amazing dishes, great customer service, and a beautiful atmosphere. Easy 5 stars from me. 🌟✨️🌟✨️🌟✨️🌟✨️🌟

Cool spot with good food and drinks. I don’t often get dessert, but I couldn’t help myself with the berry crème brûlée.

The food is great. The portion is a bit small for the price but it's definitely tasty! Also they drink offering is massive, you will find something you like. Sometimes there are live music playing in the outdoor seating area.

Food was delish! Last night we ordered all the specials (bread basket, a lovely goat cheese flatbread, shortrib fries were to die for, and a lemon poppyseed cake) the were ALL amazing! Also had our usual brussel sprouts, and tots, and great wine. Gavin was lovely and nearly anticipated our every need!