Cozily nestled inside the towering Mission Valley Marriott is the bright and sunny bistro, Café Del Sol. From the moment I walked in I knew I was in for a treat. The bar and restaurant alike were dressed in a gorgeous Latin accent containing lavish amounts of intricate pottery and paintings. Gecko lined walls with Spanish colors set the mood for an attractive meal.

The adventure started with a few appetizers that require mention. Firstly was the Fire and Ice Shrimp dish. This starter consists of four chilled jumbo shrimp marinated in a spicy peanut sauce set atop a delectable mango papaya salsa. Next in line was their homemade Chicken Tortilla Soup which could pass any test in Mexico. And last, but certainly not least, was the Chicken Quesadilla. Portly and flavorful in its own right, this guy could be a meal on its own.

Then, just when I thought I could not eat anymore, in came the entrees. Only one word could describe my feelings, “WOW”. Thai Chicken Salad, Hoisin Halibut, Tequila Shrimp and Herb Steamed Salmon. I thought I had died and gone to heaven. Every dish was prepared exquisitely and with portions fit for a king. My personal favorite was the Tequila Shrimp. Made up of five large jumbo shrimp sautéed with red, green, and yellow peppers, red onion,cilantro, jalapenos, and tequila served over cilantro pappardelle pasta. It’s absolutely out of this world.

Ultimately, Café Del Sol is a big winner all around. Senior Sous Chef Juan Lopez is a magician in the kitchen. Service is prompt and polite and atmosphere is second to none.

For an overall fantastic dinner at a great price, try Café Del Sol, you’ll be glad you did.

- Dan Farley, Real Flavor Magazine Reviewer