Wednesday evening, October 9th, WildWood Crossing and Cantina, celebrated their one-year anniversary. Not to be confused with the short-lived Cajun themed Wildwood Restaurant and bar which which was taken over by the Terramar Restaurant group a year ago and re-imagined as it is today. WildWood Crossing and Cantina has created a new experience while building on the popular traditions of the landmark La Paloma restaurant, their predecessor at the location.
The celebration involved a boisterous mix of family, friends and guests filling the patio, both dining rooms and the show room. Co-owner Anthony Sarain joined regular Wednesday evening musician Clay Colton on the patio, adding his flute and clarinet styling for a unique musical experience. In the show room, executive chef Wilfrido “Willy” Valentin held free cooking classes demonstrating how to create his fresh muddled guacamole and salsa.
He also shared his popular Keylime pie recipe… then much to everyone’s delight he produced a freshly baked pie and treated guests to a slice of the delectable treat. Right next to Willy was his friend and somaliere, Kris Scott with Classic Wine Co discussing wine intricacies as he poured tasters for those interested in sampling various vintages.
Also in the showroom were Victor Badillo, with Prohibition Brewing Co., provided samples of their popular brews and Christian Cabanas with Cali Fino Tequila who wowed everyone with their “dessert tequila“, aged in cognac barrels, and as smooth as any tequila this writer has ever sampled. The mood was festive and exuded a coastal vibe reflecting so many of the participants who grew up in North County. As a special feature, the 1980’s surfing TV show WaveLength played on various televisions in the venue featuring many of the evening’s guests surfing and skating. For more information on WildWood Crossing and Cantina please visit us at www.wildwoodcrossing.net, call us at 760-758-1513 or visit us at 116 Civic Center Drive in Vista, adjacent to Wildwood Park.
