A Time for Winter Reflection
As opposed to New Year’s Resolutions, which I don’t do right away, during the early quieter winter times I usually take the time to reflect on my last year. What would I have done differently? I would have spent more time interacting with my Guests at my restaurants. What would I have like to have done that I didn’t get to? I had a lot of ideas for new specials that I didn’t get to. Did I make any new friends. Yes, happily I made 4 new friends. Did I do anything to reinforce the love I have for my current friends? No, I didn’t but I went through a rough patch recently and they were all there to support me so I plan on returning their love this year. Did I lie to anyone? Yes, I lied to myself about a personal health issue that I kept putting off. I would urge all of you to look back, look forward, and add any new questions about yourselves. This winter reflection has served me will over my adult life. I wish you and your friends and families Peace, Joy & Love in 2026…
Blueberry-Pecan Streusel Muffins
I’m not a big breakfast guy but I sometimes like to have a little sweet pastry along with my French Press, Dark Roast coffee in the morning. As promised in my last post, I am giving you my recipe for one of my favorite morning treats. I developed this recipe a few years ago and I don’t mind doing a little bragging here but, most people who have tasted these say they are one of the best ever. They are soft and moist on the inside with a crunchy, Pecan streusel topping. I’m attaching the recipe for you so you can make it at home this weekend. I promise you, you won’t be disappointed.
Cowboy Night at Tavern at the Mission
The San Juan Capistrano Valley has a rich history of horses and cowboys and I am happy to celebrate it whenever I can. In fact, I had the Tumbleweed Bar designed as an homage to this culture. The design features 4 actual tumbleweed chandeliers, a wall of sepia toned photos from local horse events that took place and a cowboy hat wall. Last year I wanted to have some fun and encourage guests to come in wearing the cowboy hats and, in return, they can drink for half price all night long starting at 4:00 PM. We also have a Country Western playlist programmed to play all night long. So put on your favorite cowboy shirt, boots and, of course, your cowboy hat and join us every Thursday Night. Remember we also have Happy Hour from 4-6 as well. See you then partners!
Fish & Chips
Hey Bloggers, Fish & chips originated in England during the 19th century, blending fried fish introduced by 16th-century Jewish refugees from Portugal and Spain with deep-fried potatoes, likely from Belgium. The combination became popular with the working class in the 1860s. This is another dish that has transcended time and is as popular today as ever and it’ one of my favorite seafood dishes. Now this dish sounds like it’s easy to make right? Well, not really. I’m sure some of you have had some soggy fried fish at some time or another, and simply put, it’s pretty horrible. First, you have to start with the right fish. I prefer Alaskan Cod that is harvested from the pristine waters near the small town of Village Cove, where Cod fishing is the primary source of income. Alaskan Cod is a popular, sustainable whitefish with a mild, slightly sweet, and clean flavor profile. It features large, firm, and flaky white meat, making it highly versatile for cooking, particularly in breaded applications like fish and chips. I cut the fish into thick; finger shaped portions then dredge them in a very light beer batter then flash fried until golden brown and crispy. The spice flavored batter must be kept very thin…just enough to cling to the Cod but not so thick that it becomes soft and doughy. I make the batter fresh each day and add more beer to it throughout the day to make sure it stays thin. Now, fish & chips is best when eaten right out of the fryer but I’ve enjoyed it after it’s been sitting for 10-15 minutes still because of the thinness of the crust. That said, it’s not a dish that travels well so I don’t offer it on our to-go menu because when it is covered, it becomes soggy very quickly. I serve with the traditional French fries but a non-tradition tartar sauce made with mayonnaise, pickled jalapenos and chipotles which is a smoked chile that adds a distinctive flavor. This dish is available at both of our Taverns for both Lunch and Dinner so next time you’re in the mood for fish give this delicious version a try!
Comfort Food Perfect for a Rainy Day
Good Rainy Day Monday Friends! When the weather is rainy and blustery, like it is today and for the next several, our Tavern menus offer the best of comfort food from French Onion Soup, to D’s Fried Chicken to our Half Pound, Prime Angus Cowboy Burgers. So grab your rain gear and umbrella and carefully drive over to one of our Taverns and enjoy the best of Chef Wilhelm’s New American Comfort Food!
Best of San Juan Capistrano!
Hey Bloggers, I have some exciting news that we wanted to share with you all. Tavern at the Mission was just awarded Best Burger, Best Happy Hour and Best Brunch in San Juan Capistrano by the Dispatch People’s Choice! We are extremely proud of these awards and want to thank all of you out there that cast your votes for us. I invite you to come down to our lovely little town and enjoy a lunch, dinner, brunch or happy hour and then stroll around. I hope to see you soon!
February Specials
Hey Bloggers, I’m pleased to announce our new Tavern at the Mission February Specials. Back by popular demand are our skillet roasted Angus Meatballs in a spicy, sweet & smokey sauce, Crispy Roast Duck with Brandied Michigan Cherry Sauce, and two new sexy cocktails! Executive Chef Alberto and I invite you to join us this month for these savory treats!
Cowboy Night at Tavern at the Mission
The San Juan Capistrano Valley has a rich history of horses and cowboys and I am happy to celebrate it whenever I can. In fact, I had the Tumbleweed Bar designed as an homage to this culture. The design features four actual tumbleweed chandeliers, a wall of sepia toned photos from local horse events that took place, and a cowboy hat wall. Last year I wanted to have some fun and encourage guests to come in wearing the cowboy hats and, in return, they can drink for half price all night long starting at 4:00 PM. We also have a Country Western playlist programmed to play all night long. So put on your favorite cowboy shirt, boots and, of course, your cowboy hat and join us every Thursday Night. Remember we also have Happy Hour from 4:00-5:30 as well. See you then partners! David
