George’s at the Cove offers a one-two punch

It often seems you can either have great food or an amazing view but not both, especially in a tourist town.

But with all the lovely ocean vistas available to us in the San Diego area, you’re bound to hit a sweet spot every once in a while that provides the best of both. Take George’s Bar, for example. The mid-level of George’s at the Cove is a casual bar and restaurant with the same expansive view of the La Jolla cove as the Ocean Terrace just above it (but with the benefit of shade on the patio).

On this warm and sunny afternoon, David and I began our lunch with a chilled glass of white wine and the Stuffed Dates ($8) with goat cheese, almonds, and bacon, served atop a piquillo-tomato sauce. The tomato sauce is an unusual companion to this trendy appetizer, but it works. The arugula garnish was another nice touch.

For my entrée, I went for the Little Gem Lettuce Salad ($12) with grilled chicken breast for an additional $5. At first glance, the salad appeared small, but appearances proved deceptive as the beets, almonds, and avocado all lightly dressed with Green Goddess dressing, along with the tender, well-seasoned chicken, was plenty satisfying.

David ordered the Cemita Sandwich ($13) composed of crispy chicken, chipotle, avocado, cabbage, pickled onion, and Oaxaca cheese on a bun, served with a salad. I asked him how it tasted, but he was too busy chewing and smiling to answer me.