North County, a fish taco-centric eatery, is opening its doors tonight for dinner in Lowry at 94 North Rampart Way. Right across the street from the Lowry Beer Garden, the North San Diego-inspired restaurant is a collaboration between the Larimer Associates and Sterling Robinson, the chef and owner of Billy's Inn.
"I travel to San Diego pretty frequently and one of the things I love there when you go to local spots is the lighter bar food," says Joe Vostrejs of the Larimer Associates. "Here, you have chicken wings and Shepard's pie. In North County, there's peel 'n eat shrimp, ceviches, and fish tacos, food that is lighter and brighter and healthier," he adds.
The menu ranges from oysters on the half shell to shrimp and octopus ceviche but also burgers and salads and po' boys and pork green chile.
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"The taco concept is a popular thing now but we didn't want to do just another taqueria, but rather to create something compelling and healthy," explains Vostrejs. "I live in Lowry and I know what my neighbors are looking for and wanted to give them exactly that: A super friendly neighborhood spot but more sophisticated and with healthy options."
North County is kid-friendly but unlike its sister restaurant the Lowry Beer Garden, it lends itself more to adults. Part of the reason why is the hefty booze list that includes many cocktails, wine, beers, and over 100 tequilas. Bonus: spiked sodas batched and bottled on location.
The warm and inviting 2,600 square foot space with a large patio was designed by Boss Architecture, whose portfolio also includes the stunning Stoic & Genuine at Union Station.
North County is open daily for dinner at 4 p.m starting today through January 5. At that time, the restaurant will open for lunch every day at 11 a.m. and stay open until 11:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and midnight on Friday and Saturday. Happy hour is all day on Monday and from 4 to 6 p.m. all other days until January 5. After January 5, happy hour will run from 3 to 6 p.m.