Spotlight on Ramona business of the week: Up the Hill Grill

So I finally stopped into Up the Hill Grill today on Main St. I found the place to be clean, cozy, inviting & comfortable. I love the ambiance with the car and motorcycle up on the wall. Good casual place to watch the game on a Sunday. I ordered the Maple Bacon Burger, Lemon parm chicken wings and parm fries. All were VERY tasty. All food was served hot and fresh. The wings even have a little crispy exterior which I enjoyed. The burger was excellent. It was cooked perfectly and I could really taste the bacon, yum. Very tasty, juicy, good quality beef. Parm fries were served hot and were tasty too. My only regret is I left without ordering the deep fried brownie for dessert. I was just too full. But there’s always next time. The menu is extensive with burgers, sandwiches, salads, appetizers & more. I highly recommend this place when you want good food and casual ambiance. CLICK HERE FOR MORE ON UP THE HILL GRILL * I select the Spotlight on Ramona business of the week based on the business that stands out to me most that week. We have so many really awesome small businesses here in Ramona and I tend to frequent many every week to lend my support and appreciation. Happy to have so many great places to choose from.

Easy Banana-Oats mini-muffins

These muffins are a tasty addition to a lazy Sunday breakfast or brunch. Just use your ripe bananas, mix in oats, add a little egg for texture and plop in pre-heated oven(350*) for 10-13 minutes. I add cinnamon and diced gala apples on top but you could also add other fruit, raisins, yogurt or nuts to these goodies. Makes for a fast, delicious, healthy snack. Serve warm.

8th Annual Holiday Food drive is underway at REMax Ramona-Extended through December!

Regina Flores at Re/Max Direct is asking the community’s help for those in need this holiday season. All canned goods and boxed food are appreciated and may be dropped off before Dec.25th for holiday delivery. “With the economy the way that it has been, we are seeing more people needing the basic necessities, and what could be more basic than a meal,” said Flores. “Ramona is a community that takes care of each other. We have seen this over and over, so if you can help by bringing one can or a few, it all counts to a hungry child.” Some ideas to donate: Any unopened canned vegetables, fruit, pasta, soup, crackers and boxed cereal or food. The food may be brought to the RE/Max office at 1410 Main St. on the corner of 14th and Main. Drops offs are accepted daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. “All items will be donated to a local nonprofit organization for families in our community in need,” said Flores. “If you can’t make it in, we will be happy to pick up your donations.” For more information, call Flores at 760-788-0721. article from Ramona Sentinel, 2011

Restaurant review- Nikos Greek Kafe, Ramona CA

Located in the heart of downtown Ramona at 1431 Main Street is a little slice of Greek heaven.
Niko's Greek Kafe was established about 5 yrs ago. It is the only Greek restaurant in Ramona. Because I have eaten there for years, I asked Greg the owner to tell me a little about the place. Greg is from Metsobo, Greece. Which might explain why the food tastes so fresh and good. Greg and his wife Leslie are a husband and wife team that run the restaurant. I have enjoyed, Gyros, Pork and chicken skewers myself and my personal favorite is the chicken salad. This salad is so fresh and delicious. Served with pita and dill sauce that is out of this world. I guess you can tell by now it is one of my favorite places in town to eat.

WHAT WAS YOUR INSPIRATION BEHIND NIKOS?
I opened as a family business to have my son take over when I retire but my son had other plans.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE DISH?
Pork skewers, and of course some of the favorites on the menu Gyros, chicken skewers, salads with chicken.
SO WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS WHEN YOU RETIRE?
Probably go back to part time teaching, biology or microbiology. My degree from SDSU is a Master's Degree.
IT'S A LOT OF WORK RUNNING A RESTAURANT?
It's a commitment.
YOU HAVE RUN YOUR RESTAURANT SUCCESSFULLY, WHAT'S THE SECRET?
We are unique to Ramona, we have consistently good food, we treat the customers right, and have good service.
HAVE YOU ENJOYEOWNING A RESTAURANT IN RAMONA?
D Yes, very much. Part of me does mot want to leave.
WHAT DO YOU THINK MAKES GREEK FOOD TASTE SO GOOD?
Unique seasonings, always fresh, mediterranean diet. You know Greek food is the healthiest food you can eat, its pure ingredients taste so fresh.
IF SOMEONE WAS OPENING A RESTAURANT WHAT ADVISE WOULD YOU GIVE THEM?
Buy an established business. The benefits definately outway all because you are walking into someone elses hard work and sweat equity. So much easier if the place is already established for several years with a reputation for good food and service.

Come give it a try, you will not be dissapointed.
And by the way.......
As luck would have it Nikos Greek Kafe is for sale for $79,000. Help us find a new owner that will hopefully keep this favorite Greek Restaurant in town when Greg retires.

Call Regina with any questions at 760-788-0721.