This week, we thought we would visit a couple of places which have been renovated and one of them in particular, a relatively new place. If only we could be so lucky and be completely made over! There is just not enough plastic or Botox in the world to make a difference on us ol’ queens anymore. (Nicole and Papa Frank)

Our first visit was to SOHO RESTAURNT & LOUNGE. Owner Carlos De Narvaez has totally redesigned the interior of what was once Vesuvio Gourmet on El Cajon Blvd.

Frank did not like either the décor of Vesuvio or their food so he was not real excited about visiting this place when we first heard of its grand reopening. His attitude was great, another quick white wash and call the place something new. We often wonder why people just throw up a few sticks, slap some ugly paint on the walls and start slinging out something they like to call food.

Frank insisted we look them up online prior to our visit and here is what we found:

The name SOHO originates from a neighborhood in Manhattan, NY. Starting with the influx of artists, followed by excellent restaurants and hip retail shops, SOHO prospered as one of New York’s most popular neighborhoods. The owner, Carlos De Narvaez found that North Park in San Diego shared a similar growth pattern as SOHO did in New York City. With a determined view, Carlos will make SOHO Restaurant and Lounge here in North Park add to the similar, vibrant expansion of SOHO in New York.

The restaurant will join the group of progressive entrepreneurs which have penetrated the North Park area and began this amazing transformation. SOHO will be showcasing a comfy, chic approach to Southern cuisine with a twist. We will hold Latin and other worldly flavors close to home, with passion towards local and distant cultures. It will shine through in both the cuisine at SOHO and its variety of local and craft beers, including a collection of mostly new world wines. Patrons of SOHO will also notice evolving and new art on display, mostly done by local artists. With its exquisite cuisine, comfortable atmosphere, local art, and its unique addition to this evolving neighborhood, SOHO will give you many reasons to make this your new local eatery.

We have to hand it to Carlos, he had the good sense to create an atmosphere where people could enjoy a great dining experience and hired a quality Chef to create an outstanding menu. Speaking of Chefs, please allow us to introduce Chef Evan Rossman. (A real hottie, by the way with nice, strong hands)

Evan has recently created the new Brunch Menu and his two favorite items are the Banana Strawberry Foster French Toast made with liqueurs and thick sliced bread and the Morning Pork Burger. You know Frank, just say “PIG” and you have his attention.

We opted for the Pork Burgers and our guest had a salad, more on them in a minute. Other items included Rice and Lentil Maple Pancakes which are gluten free and perfect for Vegans, Spinach Cobb Salad, and sandwiches like Croque Monsieur (fancy name for grilled ham and cheese) or Lamb Burgers to name a few.

Chef Evan insisted we sample the Rice and Lentil Maple Pancakes for our appetizers. We braced ourselves, what on earth would these taste like? To our surprise they were delicious, more like a small crepe. In fact, our guest said if they were just a little thinner serving them as crepes would be totally acceptable. Frank said, “well thanks for sharing, that’s just so special!”

When our food arrived, the aroma filled the air. Frank’s eyes, bright with anticipation of wonder as this “Morning Pork Burger” finally made its way to our table. The burger was crowned with sliced tomatoes, an egg cooked over easy and avocado, then served on an open faced bun with a mixture of potatoes, bell pepper and onions. Yummy!

Our cranky guest was quick to point out the salad was delicious, however, a bit over powered by too much dressing, other than that he was quite happy and so were we. Quite content we parted company. This is a great place for a weekend brunch or date night.

Soho Happy Hour is from 4 to 6 pm Tuesday thru Sunday. They are located at 3025 El Cajon Blvd in North Park. Phone 619.764.5475 or visit them on the web at www.sohorestaurantandlounge.com

Congratulations Carlos, you have done a fine job of turning an eyesore into a wonderful place to eat and drink. We thank you!