Cass Street Bar & Grill

Cass Street Bar and Grill is one of those places I just keep coming back to. i've never been impressed with the service, if you;ve read any of my other comment cards. But I just love the food. It really does put all other bar food to shame. There's no deep fried crap. Everything is original and well done. The kitchen staff is very consistent with how they prepare everything too. So no matter when you go, orr who you're going with,you know what you're going to get.

The really obvious issue with Cass Street is just their bar staff and doormen. And the wait staff to some extent. They feel like they're god's gift to Pacific Beach nightlife. And they maintain the aloof and uninterested demeanor that used to permeate the beach community bars and restaurants. But in the past few yearrs, there's been a renewed interest (competition driven I'm sure) to provide a good experience for the folks who are kind enough to spend their hard earned money at your place.

let's hope Cass Street gets the picture at some point. Until then, the quality of the menu may just carry them. I'd consider it a reluctant recommendation. The teriyaki steak sandwich absolutely rules. I live for those things! Go get one for yourself!

Have you ever been to one of those quirky little restaurants that loves their backwards way of doing everything? Like maybe they make you order a salad from one window and steak from another, or maybe they only accept Discover card, or their restrooms are unisex. Whatever - they survive because of their location or their food quality or some other uniqueness.

Cass Street Bar and Grill is one of those places. Their beach side location and quality of food is enough to keep a loyal clientele. It's one of the few places in the shore area that draws an over 30 crowd. And maybe the sanctuary of this gray-friendly, slightly saggy oasis in the youthful bar-laden community of Pacific Beach is enough to keep a following of hungry geriatrics?

In general, I'd recommend eating at Cass Street because of the food - regardless of anything else. I've eaten there better than 30 times, and never once had a bad meal. But in order to be united with your culinary delight, you'll need to know how to navigate the quirky and annoying ordering process.

After you finish a slightly laborious conversation with the doorman who boasts an IQ of 52 (yeah he's been there forever and still can't find the birth date on any state ID's), you need to head straight to the very back of the bar. You'll stand in line and struggle to read the crudely painted menu up on the dimly lit wall above the service window. Honestly, you can order anything from the menu and you'll enjoy it. I'd recommend the breakfast burrito if you're making a morning visit, and I'd strongly suggest the teriyaki steak baguette for lunch or dinner. I can not stress that more... it's one of the best sandwiches I've ever had.

You'll be surprised as the scant waitress behind the window (somehow only attractive women ever apply for work at Cass St) prompts you about the tip jar. Maybe she's excessively proud that she asked if you want fries with your order? I can't comment on what might happen if you ignore the pre-tipping protocol, but I suggest you drop a buck in the pitcher. Go find a seat at a sticky bar table and wait for your grub. Three times you'll be delivered the wrong order. But when you do get the right plate, you'll enjoy every last morsel. However, if you want a libation to wash down your meal, you'll need to head back up to the bar. Don't think about a mixed drink, as this bar only sports beer and wine. And brace yourself for a healthy dose of attitude from a bartender who will proudly serve you the requested beverage accurately at least 7 out of 10 times.

You'll still leave happy and satisfied, and you'll still return solely for the food. Give it a shot, but be ready for some self important quirkiness. The middle aged mob of beachside faithful is willing to overlook a deficit of service just to get their food fix. Stop by and see why.