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La Jolla: Red O

Red O is a San Diego outpost of the Rick Bayless empire, located near the University Town Center shopping center. The space is very large, divided into a bar and a dining area, both with high ceilings. A divider helps contain the noise of the bar. The restaurant is clearly designed for high-class, high-ticket evenings out.
The chips were very good. The salsa was excellent with a distinctive note of smoked peppers.
My main course was lamb chops in mole negro. The lamb was succulent and nicely lamb-y without being overly strong. The sauce was very smooth, full of multiple flavors that were perfectly balanced. I also ordered a side of Mexican street corn. I had been looking forward to a little cob gnawing, but this version was much easier on my face and clothes. The corn was the highlight of the meal, much as I liked the lamb and sauce. The combination of corn and cheese was very satisfying, a tribute to the genius of street food.
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