Emilio’s on Cabrillo Blvd.

When I was hanging out at the West Beach Inn a few weeks ago, I wandered next door – literally next door – to Emilio’s Restaurant (Mediterranean cuisine).

I am really happy it worked out that way – I think one of the worst things about eating out is that you have to walk out to your car after the meal.  A chatty, satisfying feast over a bottle of wine followed by a 2-minute walk to my comfortable room is what I refer to as relaxation.

I had been wanting to try Emilio’s for some time – it’s directly across from the harbor, and I see it every time I’m taking the mast down. But I am usually more thirsty than hungry after a salty sail, and thus a beer and a bowl of clam chowder at Brophy’s usually wins out (story on Brophy’s still in the works, FYI).

It’s worth eating early or late to ensure you miss the crowd and can get a table by the window.  We were treated to views of the harbor and the boats going in and out – a plus of dining in daylight (although we were there much into the night).

Tuna Cones.

We started by ordering the wine – Rancho Sisquoc Cabernet – and then browsed the menu.  I was on a bit of a “grazing” streak at the time – and I wanted to try a couple of things – so I ordered two appetizers: Tuna Cones and Goat Cheese Fonduta.

You read that right: Tuna Cones.  It’s one of the more memorable dishes I’ve had in Santa Barbara. The cones are made of sesame seeds and filled with tuna, ginger, tamari and sesame oil.  Really creative and fun dish, I must say. (I wouldn’t complain if they threw in a bit of wasabi in there, though.)

The goat cheese fonduta held its own, especially after our waiter advised us to mix the warm goat cheese and marinara into a thick sauce, then dip the bread and top with the arugula. It’s tips like these that reward those who take the time to talk to the server – to let him or her know you both want the same thing: an enjoyable experience, I presume.  (Our server also recommended the Rancho Sisquoc Cab.  I have since bought it in the grocery store.)

Goat Cheese Fonduta

I mentioned a few weeks ago that I thought I was developing a sweet tooth, and that trend continued.  I ordered two desserts to go and ate them later that night.

There’s good news and bad news.

Good news: I remember both being delicious.

Bad news: That’s about all I can tell you. I moreso devoured than savored them in the early hours of the morning.

What can I say.

Even angels fall, you know?