The Turquoise, Cafe Bar Europa

The Turquoise, Cafe Bar Europa Restaurant Review:

The Turquoise, Café Bar Europa is like a fish out of water---meaning it possesses class and sophistication amid the usual sports bars and drunken brawls of Pacific Beach. Owner Basilio Ceravolo attempts to capture the feeling of a small, local European café---and he largely succeeds. Deep red walls, lit candelabras and eclectic oil paintings set the mood. Relax with a jug of tasty sangría (red or white) and regional sliced meats and cheeses, including Serrano ham, Italian salami and a variety of chorizos. We like to feast on the crostini: crunchy toast rounds topped with roasted red peppers and goat cheese; prosciutto; eggplant caponata (our favorite); and tomatoes with mozzarella. The dish called selection of vegetables combines braised rapini, roasted red beets, stewed fava beans and red peppers. Another fine choice is the artichoke-and-onion frittata. Desserts are very continental and include chocolate mousse, crème brûlée and napoleon. Call ahead for the entertainment schedule---you might find yourself enjoying live jazz music or flamenco guitars, or even participating in a tango lesson. Energetic belly dancers add to the festive mood.