G5-Georges On Fifth

Visited on April 5, 2008.

Food:

It really was great overall. Even the little “hiccup” in the food didn’t detract from a great overall score. My scores to follow (Out of 10):

Dungeness Crab Cake – 8
Beef Carpaccio – 8
Tower of Tropical Tuna Tartare – 9 (*Dish of the night)
Prime “Bone-in” Rib Eye (leeks & port demi-glaze) – 9
Six Onion Risotto – 9
Vanilla Bean Crème Brulee – 9

The food was magnificent! The only problem we encountered was 3/4 through our beef carpaccio we noticed a small “bug” inside our food. We were both frozen and the owner (George, I presume – he reminded me of the actor Chris Cooper) happened to be walking by and immediately noticed our concern. He swiftly removed the plate, apologized and explained that sometimes these sand fleas are carried in with people who had just come from the beach. George also immediately told our server, who had come to enquire about the minor commotion, to bring a complementary order of the Tuna Tartare for us. Believe it or not, we were disappointed that he wasn’t going to offer us another plate of beef carpaccio! It was that good. The only reason I gave it an 8/10 was because of our little friend. The Tuna tartare was out of this world! It tasted amazing and needless to say, fresh. The rib eye was also fabulous, and it was “melt in your mouth” meat. The risotto was also perfectly cooked, and the taste, texture and flavours were just wonderful.

Service:

The service was utterly amazing. Our server was attentive, very friendly but never intrusive. She was easily one of the best servers I’ve ever been served by. The owner was also very friendly and generous. He asked whether it was a special occasion, and when we had replied “yes”, he offered us two glasses of complimentary champagne.

Atmosphere:

The décor wasn’t the most updated, but it was comfortable and adequate. There is a piano in the dining area for live music, but there wasn’t a performer on the night we dined at G5.

Summary:

We sort of accidentally stumbled into this restaurant, but we were greatly rewarded. It wasn’t until after our very pleasant visit, did I find out the connection this restaurant had with Wyatt Earp. It was definitely a memorable evening of good eats! Would I visit again? If I ever get the chance to go back to San Diego, quoting their great Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, “I will be back!”