Mangoes & Mussels

Going out on a whim is always such a gamble, hence why we have food-finding apps on our smartphones these days.  But sometimes walking into a place you just happen to stumble upon can turn into a tasty surprise.

Having class cancelled always brings about last minute plans, normally to get food.  Today, a close friend of mine and I decided to celebrate the freedom with a drive to La Jolla.  While walking along Prospect Street, chatting about our luck and soaking in some sun, we decided to eat at the next cafe we'd come across.  Being in La Jolla, I braced myself - and my wallet - but much to our surprise we found a nice place, with a great view, and decent breakfast and lunch prices.

Il Covo, La Jolla

Il Covo is a little hard to spot along the street. The restaurant is actually above street level, with a tucked away staircase leading to the patio dining area.  But there's a reason for the second level dining - the view is fantastic...

View from the patio - Il Covo

The Meal

To start, Eve and I shared a plate of fresh papaya, melon, and mango.

Papaya, Melon, Mango Plate - $6 @ Il Covo

The fruit was refreshing, sweet, and drizzled with honey. Every bite came with a splash of cool, natural juice - the perfect refreshment when you're sitting in the sun. 

Now although they serve breakfast until 1pm, I was in the mood for a savory lunch.  I decided on spaghetti con cozze (spaghetti with black mussels). 

Spaghetti con Cozze - $9 @ il Covo

Now this dish was bursting with flavor! The sauce - a slightly spicy marinara - had an abundance of stewed grape tomato halves and whole cloves of garlic, that made their way into just about every bite.  The pasta was cooked al dente, and the mussels retained a lot of the juices of the sauce (specifically the robust garlic flavor), giving a nice blend of spices and seafood.

Try Some, Won't You?

If you find yourself in La Jolla around lunchtime, and you don't want to break budget for a nice lunch with a view, check out Il Covo (map it). Parking, of course, is on the street so be prepared to do a little walking, but why not take advantage of the opportunity to stroll in the sun and feel that light sea breeze on your sun-kissed skin? 

Until next bite, savor the flavor my friends!