It was hard to resist Cafe Chloe’s inviting charm when strolling by the quaint restaurant in San Diego’s East Village, whether it be mid-morning or late afternoon. It’s looked so relaxing yet other worldly that you can’t help but be drawn in to take a whiff of the yummy plates they have cooking. After chit chatting with one of the owners over at Cafe Chloe, I finally understand how they created such a place.
All four owners had a special love affair with both the style and culture of European cafe’s, and knew that San Diego was lacking such a place. Each individual had been working in the food industry since they became of age, and have loved every minute of it. Owning a restaurant had been their life long dream, and having that come to fruition has only progressed their passion for food. In the words of Tami Ratliffe, “It was like throwing a dinner party every day, several hundred times! Food is art, and Cafe Chloe was our canvas”.
The menu was always changing with the seasons according to the availability of the produce. While they do import select items, if it can be grown, caught, or raised locally, they will indeed source it. The owners made a point to build great relationships with local farmers, but were always looking for newcomers on the scene. They also worked closely with Olivewood Gardens, a great organization that to this day educates children on sustainability, and teaches the parents of these kids healthy cooking techiniques that will last generations. When asked how their diners could easily “go green”, Tami encouraged them to visit local Farmer’s Markets and while a staple in our communities now, back then were few and far between. "The food is better and healthier for you and your family, and you are helping to support a TRUE "farm to table" movement in San Diego" Something to look forward to this Summer is Afternoon Tea with freshly made ice cream. Both the Peach Honey Lavender and Nectarine Chamomile ice cream seem perfect for a late afternoon cool down.
