San Diego Dining

Jade Theater

By Kevin Leap & Steven Persitza
Posted on Mar 19 2008
Last updated Mar 20 2008

When we first heard of Jade Theater, our first response was “what’s playing there”? Imagine our surprise when we discovered it was a restaurant and nightclub. Yet as the evening stretched out for dinner, with dish after delectable dish increasing in their intensity, like a drama unfolding, Jade presented us with a thrilling production of a dining showcase.

Now truth be told, you can easily pass by Jade Theater and not even know it’s there. The venue doesn’t have its name listed on the marquee, just a Japanese symbol, but it is there and worth entering to enjoy all of its distinct offerings. Jade is comprised of three different levels, each with its own captivating design and adventure, not unlike stage settings in play (see there’s that theater aspect again).

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The entry level consists of a sprawling lounge and bar setting, where “lights, camera and action” best describes it. The room dazzles with glistening white tones merging with glass panels and windows. A great place to gather with friends, sit and enjoy a drink and be seen. Move downstairs to the darker dwelling, the self-proclaimed “Buddha ultra-lounge” where a life-size statue of Buddha himself is there to greet you. The room smacks of an opium den in Shanghai (don’t worry, only delicious drinks served here) with large, exotic seating areas scattered throughout. Only open on weekends with live music and a DJ to spin you about the room. It truly is one very inviting and sexy nightclub.

While we were quite swept away by the other features of Jade, we were here for the food and that’s where Executive Chef James Montejano is director, producer and actor-in-a- leading-role in his production of fine dining. San Francisco trained; Chef Montejano is clearly bringing his passion to the establishment. Jade describes itself as East meets East meets East, meaning you’ll find blends of Japanese fused with Indian fused with Thai…you get the idea. The menu displays a truly unique perspective of blending interesting, exciting flavors and textures together to create a new, appetizing whole.

We started the evening out with some Spicy Edamame (with honey ponzu), from the “Tease-small bites” section of the menu, which got the night going with a zesty flare. We followed this with the subtle tasting Jade Shitake Bites (spicy ahi & crab stuffed shitake, with yin-yang sauces) from the “Taste-starter” listings. The “bites” came across with a soft consistency and robust flavor that balanced well with the crunchy side salad.

Joining the tables’ samplings were a triple header dish of inspired Duck (good texture with an amazing sweet, yet savory taste), Albacore (very soft sashimi style with a hint of apple flavor) and Ahi (with cucumber, making for a light dish). We welcomed all three and they were a great way to prepare for the seemingly never-ending feast. Not to be outdone was the playful Tandoori Lollipop Lamb Chops (with curry raitta and apricot-pear chutney). The powerful crusty flavor of the succulent lamb was distinctively Indian and dazzled the taste buds.

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We then savored the Clay Pot Clams (steamed in sake, black bean sauce and noodles) which arrived with a finger cleansing citrus bowl. Nice touch. As you dive into the rich, thick flavors of the black bean sauce (a spicy kick to it) enjoy the excellent flavor and presentation. Equally enticing were the Seared Spiced Scallops (with sake braised leeks, furikake potato cake and lemongrass sauce) and Miso Glazed Mero (Asian Consommé with floating vegetables and Udon). The scallops were set in an aromatic Acorn Curry sauce while resting on a bed of potato cake. The delicate balance of textures and seasonings are to be enjoyed with the offered Asian traditional spoon. The Miso proved to have a subtle yet salty flavor that played off quite nicely. Truly a very inspired meal.

We finished the evening’s unexpectedly distinctive delights with samplings from their dessert menu. We feasted on the “dessert trio” which included their Chai Cake (with plum-wine poached Asian pears), Honey Cream Cheese Lumpia (with orange sesame sauce) and Chocolate Five-spice Indulgence (with sake marinated cherries). All we can say is “bravo”!! None were overly sweet and all were extremely enjoyable to indulge in after such a delightful meal. Also tempting, and our personal favorite, was the Banana Fritters (banana caramel and roasted banana gelato) that was equally up to the task of satiating our palettes.

For something really fun, reserve your space for the “Mercy of the Chef” which places you at an exclusive table that seats ten and literally leaves you at the mercy of whatever culinary masterpieces Chef Montejano has developed for you with wine pairings. There is even a flat screen TV that allows you to observe the chef in action as he prepares your multi-course sampling. This truly is a distinctive culinary experience. Jade Theater is not inexpensive but the food more than makes up for the money spent. The staff was very professional and educated us on what was presented. Enjoy! The good – dishes from a chef that clearly enjoys his art and sense of adventure with his multi-layered offerings (and the place looks very cool) The bad – the duck was a touch tough but still worth ordering and you may have to run a bit between the restaurant and a parking lot

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