NEW 7/26/10: Thanks to a CVG visitor, we've learned the The Alamo Restaurant in Newbury Park (2311 Borchard Road) and Agoura Hills (5617 Kanan Road) has Kids Eat Free on Sunday/Monday nights from 5pm to 9pm. Buy 1 one entree and get up to 2 free kids meals for ages 10 and under.

NEW 7/20/10: Quizno's is now offering "Kidz Eat Free" All Day, Every Day for kids 12 and under. Purchase one entree (Sub, Toasty Torpedo, Regular Chopped Salad or Choose 2) and get one free Kids Meal. Child must be present.

NEW!! During the month of July, on every Tuesday from 4pm to 9pm, kids eat free GELATO with the purchase of any adult cup at Paciugo Gelato on the upper level of the new outdoor expansion area of the Oaks Mall, near Muvico! You can receive up to two free child cups, for children 12 and under.  There will be coloring and balloons for the kiddies!

NEW!! Now this is quite cool! The Mann Theatres at the Westlake Promenade is hosting a Free Summer Film Festival on Monday and Thursday mornings from June 14th to August 26th. Each kid will receive a postcard good for a free lunch at various Promenade restaurants with purchase of an adult entree!  CLICK HERE FOR THE MOVIE SCHEDULE AND PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS!

ACAPULCO MEXICAN RESTAURANT offers Kids Eat Free on Tuesday nights for 12 and under w/purchase of adult entry 725 S. Victoria Avenue, Ventura (805.644.3952) (reconfirmed 7/5/10)

BANDITS GRILL & BAR at 1980 Ventura Blvd, Camarillo (805.445.4742) and Thousand Oaks (589 N. Moorpark Road) (805.497.7427) currently offers Kids Eat Free with purchase of adult entree on Tuesdays 4 pm until closing with purchase of adult entree. (reconfirmed 7/5/10)

CARROWS offers Kids Eat Free for ages 10 and under after 4 pm Wed/Thurs EVERY DAY OF THE WEEK THROUGH AUGUST 31ST!! with purchase of adult entree at 301 E. Daily Drive, Camarillo (805.482.5176), 1601 N. Oxnard Blvd., Oxnard (805.983.0655), 327 S. Palm, Santa Paula (805.525.0966), 4095 E. Telegraph Road, Ventura (805.644.8539) and 2401 Harbor Blvd., Ventura (805.642.3780). (Reconfirmed 7/9/10)

CHICK-FIL-A at 2040 North Rose Avenue in Oxnard (805.988.9232) hosts Family Night every Friday 5 pm to 8 pm Kids Eat Free with purchase of adult meal. In addition, a different craft or activity is held each week. (Reconfirmed 7/5/10)

COCO's Kids Eat Free on Tues/Wed EVERY DAY OF THE WEEK THROUGH AUGUST 31ST!! after 4 pm for kids 10 and under. One free kids meal with purchase of an adult entree. Locations at 698 E. Los Angeles Avenue, Simi Valley (805.526.9122) and 4895 Las Virgenes Drive, Calabasas (818.880.4085). (Reconfirmed 7/5/10)

DENNY'S offers Kids Eat Free for 10 and under on Tues/Sat at most locations (6 nights/week at others!) from 4 pm to 10 pm. Up to 2 free kids meals for each paid adult entree! (Reconfirmed 7/5/10)

• Thousand Oaks 50 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd. (805.379.0045) (Tues/Sat)
• Newbury Park 2830 Camino Dos Rios (805.498.4440) (Mon thru Sat!)
• Camarillo 1659 E. Daily Drive (805.484.4137) (Tues/Sat)
• Moorpark 832 New Los Angeles Ave. (805.530.0999) (Tues/Sat)
• Simi Valley 2460 N. Sycamore Drive (805.526.8954) (Mon thru Sat!)
• Ventura 2148 Harbor Blvd (805.643.3414) (Tues/Sat)
  
• Oxnard 1255 N Oxnard Blvd (805.604.9455) (Tues/Sat)

EL TORITO offers Kids Eat Free for kids 12 and under on WEDNESDAYS (reconfirmed 7/5/10) with paid regular adult entree. Locations at 449 Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks (805.497.3952), 2498 Erringer Road, Simi Valley (805.522.6882) and 1720 E. Ventura Blvd., Oxnard (805.485.4887).

GREENHOUSE CAFE offers Kids Eat Free with purchase of adult meal on Monday nights at 652 East Janss Road, Thousand Oaks. Call 805.373.6500. (Reconfirmed 7/5/10)

HOT DOG ON A STICK is offering $1 Hot Dogs on a Stick EVERY TUESDAY ALL DAY for EVERYONE through the end of 2010!!! Ventura County locations Simi Valley Town Center, The Oaks Mall and Pacific View Mall.  OK, this is not quite "FREE" - but close to it!

IHOP offers Kids Eat Free for 12 and under with paid adult entree at most locations.  

• Newbury Park 2315 Michael Drive (805.499.5840) 7 nights a week from 4 pm to 10 pm
• Camarillo 1620 Daily Drive (805.484.1346) 7 nights a week 4pm to 10pm! (updated 5/10/10)
• Agoura 5031 Kanan Road (818.991.4957) 7 nights a week 4 pm to 10 pm (updated 4/8/10).
• Oxnard 1051 E. Channel Islands Blvd (805.486.1796) 7 nights a week 4pm to 10pm (as of 5/10/10)
• Oxnard 1931 N. Oxnard Blvd. (805.485.0225) 7 nights a week 4pm to 10pm (as of 5/10/10)
• Ventura 1771 S. Victoria Blvd (805.650.8002) 7 nights a week 4pm to 10pm (as of 5/10/10)
• Fillmore location does not offer Kids Eat Free (reconfirmed 7/5/10)
• Simi Valley IHOP is CLOSED (updated 5/10/10)

ISLANDS offers Kids Eat Free to ages 12 and under on Tuesdays 4 pm to 10 pm at 935 Broadbeck Drive, Newbury Park (805.498.7481), 29271 Agoura Road, Agoura (818.879.8550) and 1213 Simi Town Center Drive, Simi Valley (805.577.0693).

MAMA RITA'S at Paraiso in Dos Vientos (360 Via Las Brisas, Newbury Park) (805.499.9888) has a kids eat free deal on Tuesdays 4 pm until closing with each paid adult meal. Up to age 10.

MARIA'S ITALIAN KITCHEN offers Kids Eat Free on Wednesday nights for ages 10 and under with purchase of adult entree, limited to 2 children per family. Located at 29035 Thousand Oaks Blvd, Agoura (818.865.8999) (Reconfirmed 7/5/10)

MARIE CALLENDAR'S has Kids Eat Free on Tues/Sat for kids 12 and under! One free meal per adult entree. Simi Valley 20 W. Cochran St., Simi Valley (805.582.0552) and Ventura 1295 S. Victoria Ave., Ventura (805.644.0147) (But NOT at Camarillo location as of 4/10 805.987.5580). (Updated 7/5/10)

PIZZATOPIA at 2345 Erringer Road, #100, Simi Valley (805.526.7000) RESTAURANT HAS CLOSED. Word on the street is that a Round Table Pizza will be opening up there.

PRESTO PASTA offers an "unadvertised" buy an adult meal, get a free kids meal deal, ONLY at the Ventura location (Telephone Road at Victoria) (805.658.2898)

RUBY'S DINER at 23000 Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu (Malibu Pier) (310.456.3443) and 6100 Topanga Canyon Boulevard, Woodland Hills (818.340.7829) No more Kids Eat Free as of 7/5/10.

SAGEBRUSH CANTINA in Calabasas offers Kids Eat Free on Tuesdays and kids activities from 4:30 pm to 7 pm!! CLICK HERE FOR THE DETAILS!

SMOKEY'S BBQ at 1201 S. Victoria Ave., Oxnard (805.985.7125) offers Kids Eat Free on Tuesdays 5:30 pm to 9 pm. Up to 2 free kids' meals per table for kids 12 and under. (Current as of 7/5/10)

TACONE FLAVOR GRILL at 5021 Verdugo Way, C108, Camarillo offers Kids Eat Free (including drink) with purchase of adult combo ANYTIME (805.484.6026). Deal not available at Thousand Oaks and Westlake Village locations. (Updated 7/5/10)

TGI FRIDAYS offers Kids Eat Free for each adult entree purchased on designated days!  Deal offered Tues/Wed in Thousand Oaks, 195 N. Moorpark Road  (805.496.0503), on Mon/Tues in Oxnard, 2181 N. Rose Ave (805.983.7366) and Mon/Tues in Simi Valley, 2795 Tapo Canyon Road (805.306.9073). (Reconfirmed 7/5/10)

My family and I purchase and devour over 30 sandwiches a month, so I have an opinion or five about the most prolific sandwich franchises in town.

I'll start with my personal favorite, Jersey Mike's. Jersey Mike's started operations in 1956 and has grown to 475 stores nationwide, including 13 locally (soon to be 14 with a Thousand Oaks location). I believe Jersey Mike's by far has the freshest, highest quality ingredients of the 3 sub shops.  They slice meat and cheese for each individual sandwich and their bread, which comes in the nice and simple assortment of white and wheat, is a standout.

Order it "Mike's Way" and you get lettuce, onions, tomatoes, vinegar, oil and spices. Absolutely delicious every single time...and I eat there 3 times a week. The consistency of their sandwiches is outstanding among locations. And the bread is soft and fresh. My most frequent purchases are the #7 (Turkey/Provolone), #6 (Roast Beef/Provolone) and #8 (Club Sub). The amount of meat and cheese is always very ample. But what prompted me to write this is that, for kicks, I ordered a #14 (Veggie) yesterday and lo and behold, it was also outstanding and delicious. I didn't even miss the meat it was so good!

Pricing at Jersey Mike's is overall somewhat higher than Subway and Quizno's but I never feel value is an issue. Sign up for the Jersey Mike's email club and receive monthly coupons as well as a free birthday sub and drink.

My 7 year old is a huge Subway fan and while my nod goes to Jersey Mike's, I have no problems dining with him at Subway. Subway provides great valued and pretty darn consistent quality there amongst the dozen or so Subways that I've been to. Subway has been around since 1965 and has over 30,000 locations worldwide, 65 or so in the Ventura County area!

My family usually orders the Turkey or Roast Beef 20% subs. Subway has so many breads to choose from that frankly it just confuses us. The kids get their standard white bread and I get the 9-Grain wheat bread. We all gobble up the sandwiches and they get the job done. But the quality of the meat in my humble opinion is more along the lines of what you buy in the prepackaged deli section of the supermarket.

My 7 year old has the Subway ordering process nailed down. Its fun watching the interaction between employee and kid. And he surprises me sometimes when he adds a new ingredient to the sandwich, like cucumbers.

I try to replicate the taste of Jersey Mike's at Subway by asking for the "Mike's Way" ingredients and no mayo, but it just never quite gets there...the bread is o.k. but not as desirable to me and it doesn't have the spices. But I don't complain. My kid enjoys his turkey, cheese, lettuce and mayo and I enjoy hanging with him. I can feed 3 of us for $16 or so there and that's a good thing. Subway does provide excellent value for a meal that's a lot healthier for you than a burger and fries.

Quiznos began operating in Denver in 1981 and now has over 4,000 locations, including 12 in Ventura County. Quiznos toasts their subs and I feel I get excellent value for my money there. For just under $8 I get a nicely sized toasted roast beef sub, chips and a drink. In fact, that's what I had for lunch today.

I had no problems with the sandwich. It was filling and tasty. No complaints. It was warm and toasty and I ate every last drop of it. The meat was reasonable, but it just doesn't reach the quality of the meat at Jersey Mike's. That doesn't mean I won't be back at Quiznos though. When I have a hankering for a toasted, value-priced sub, I go to Quiznos.

I've tried other Quiznos subs like Baja Chicken, Honey Bourbon Chicken and Mesquite Chicken and they are good. Though they often have more mayo in them than I'd prefer. They leave me feeling satisfied though not in a fresh and healthy way.

I've tried to get my kids into Quiznos but they don't like the setup as much as Jersey Mike's and Subway. At the latter two, they can actually see the ingredients and the sandwich maker and interact with them, making it more of an interactive experience. At Quiznos, the set-up is different and it is difficult for the kids to have that interaction.

Quiznos confuses me with some of the names of their sandwiches...Torpedos, Bullets and Sammies. I dunno, I just don't feel like figuring out what this terminology means. Just give me a damn sandwich in small, medium or large and I'm happy. Simple is better.

That wraps up today sub discussion. Feel free to add comments as I know there will be disagreement on which subs are the best. I am particularly interested in reading comments from those of you who, like me, have eaten frequently at all three of these places!

I recently (April 2010) visited Ladyface Alehouse & Brasserie, located at Agoura and Kanan Roads (29281 Agoura Road) where Chuy's used to be.  The back patio was completely full so we sat inside. Ladyface is a brewery and restaurant with French motif/food.

I first ordered a "blonde" beer as I watched the crowds pour in at 5:30 to get a table.  Every customer seemed happy and satisfied and I had a wonderful waiter who was eager to meet my every need with two kids in tow.

We ordered a small salad with apples ("Maytag Blue Cheese and Apple Salad") and my son quickly beat me to all but two bites.  Then we ordered the $5 pommes frites (french fries) with sauce, the petit filet mignon, sauteed spinach, french onion soup, macaroni and cheese and a kids hamburger meal.

Filet Mignon, Pommes Frites and BEER!The couple next to me was enjoying mussels and I almost ordered that too after they ordered a 2nd round of them!  I cannot wait to come back to Ladyface!  I will for sure order the filet mignon again and get those mussels that I craved, as well as try the creme brulee!  My kids were eating my filet in addition to their meal!  I did not enjoy the french onion soup so much as it seemed more sweet than savory.  Perhaps it was that they used sweet onions?  Not sure but WOW, what a wonderful meal nonetheless.

Yummy Mac & CheeseMy oldest son started on a large serving of homemade macaroni and cheese and before I blinked, it was gone.  He said he loved it and wanted to come back again.  My other son loved the burgers on the brioche type bun and the Frites!.  I love calling them "frites" as they don't sound fattening! 

Lastly the kids wanted ice cream so they got it.  I was feeling adventurous so I went a few doors down and had some italian gelato (located in the same center).  I had about two bites of that before my kids ate that all up too.  Both places were incredibly delicious and I made sure the owners knew it!

Visit www.ladyfaceale.com or call 818.477.4566 for more information.

Delish Burgers with Homemade BunsEpilogue: Conejo Joe here. My wife BEGGED me to return to Ladyface so off we went after an excursion to Gates Canyon Park on a Sunday afternoon.  Let me just say that I agree with her 100%. Great food and beer. Not "cheap" but for the quality I thought it was a good value. And yes, she ordered the mussels (my scrawny muscles aren't enough for her) and they were delicious. The "Pommes Frites" (i.e. french fries) were quite good and came with tasty sauces. The burgers are unique because of their fresh baked buns. I had the fish of the day and it was quite good. I tried the "sweet" French onion soup and enjoyed it. The beer was excellent. The restaurant itself has a classy feel to it.  Like it! We'll be back.

Adobe Cantina (no website) is at 29100 Agoura Road, Agoura Hills (818.991.3474). CVG reader Stephanie says the Adobe is her favorite Mexican place in town and really loves the ribs and wonderful outdoor seating. I have been to Adobe Cantina many times over the years and my best recollection is the good margaritas and to relax outdoors there.

The Alamo Mexican Grill is at 2311 Borchard Rd., Newbury Park (805.498.3115).  Also at 5617 Kanan Road, Agoura Hills (818.889.5092). Good, traditional Mexican food. This is a comfortable, casual sit down restaurant. Reasonably priced. They have been around over 25 years. Can’t go wrong there. There is also a take out window. You can get a full blown rotisserie chicken meal for your family for around $11 here. Can’t beat it. I’m getting hungry just writing about it. (CLICK HERE FOR ALAMO DISCOUNT COUPONS ON BOGOPOD.COM!)

Baja Fresh locations inthe area include1015-G Broadbeck Drive, Newbury Park (near Home Depot) (805.376.0808), 30861 Thousand Oaks Blvd, Westlake Village(818.889.1347), 595 N. Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks (near Janss Marketplace) (805.778.0877), 888 New Los Angeles Avenue, 1-A, Moorpark (805.523.2143), 1464 Madera Road, Simi Valley (805.520.7301), 2679 Tapo Canyon Road, Simi Valley (805.581.6001), 5021 Verdugo Way #101, Camarillo (805.484.6731), 1855 Daily Drive, Camarillo (805.383.6884), 23697 Calabasas Parkway #100, Calabasas (818.591.2262), 4726-2 Telephone Road, Ventura (805.650.3535) and 2350 Vineyard Avenue #1, Oxnard (805.988.7878). Baja Fresh is the granddaddy of local Mexican take out. Most of you may recall that the very first Baja Fresh location was at the corner of Wendy and Kimber in 1990, where Country Harvest Restaurant now resides. Today there are 300 locations around the country. I’ve always loved this place and I feel that I am eating healthy when I’m there. The kids meals are great…quesadilla, rice, applesauce and a drink. There’s not too much not to like about Baja Fresh.

Bobbi's Mexican Food is at 302 N. Lantana, Camarillo (805.484.0103).  I know people that swear by Bobbi's food and others that aren't as thrilled, but they have been around since 1974 so that must tell you something.  I have not tried the BBQ'd tri tip but it sure smells good! They have large portions here I've also discovered.

Cantina Joannafina is located at 1127 Seaward, Ventura (805.652.0360).  Thanks to a CVG tip I learned that the Westlake Village Cantina Joannafina location is now closed.  I called the Ventura location and it is still open and apparently has new owners.  We have eaten at both locations and the food was o.k., a little pricey but enjoyable.

Chronic Tacos is located at 6593 Collins Drive, Suite D4 in Moorpark (across from Moorpark College) (805.529.4422). I was made aware of Chronic Tacos for the first time in March 2010 and hope to stop by sometime soon! The chain was founded in Newport Beach in 2001 and the popularity of their made-to-order Mexican food in large portions as they have grown to over 25 locations. This is currently the only Ventura County location and it opened in late summer 2009.

Chuy's Mesquite Broiler is at 650 N Moorpark Rd., Thousand Oaks (805.374.9737), 311 Carmen Drive, Camarillo (805.383.2705), 590 E. Los Angeles Avenue, Moorpark (805.523.3184), 1397 E. Los Angeles Ave, Simi Valley (805.582.4897), and 5840 E. Los Angeles Ave, Simi Valley (805.520.7424). The décor is really funky and fun to look at. Food is not particularly memorable for me but this is a fun place to go. (Agoura location is no mas...Ladyface Alehouse is now there.)

Chipotle Grill is at 935 Broadbeck Dr., Newbury Park (805.499.3561), 1263 Simi Town Center Way, Simi Valley (805.584.0514), 1145 S. Victoria Avenue, Ventura (805.650.6627) and 488 S. Mills Road, Ventura (805.654.0143). I know some people that swear by Chipotle, including my wife and kids. For those not familiar, Chipotle gives you many choices for your burritos and other Mexican cuisine so that you can customize your own food. Problem is, people like me get intimidated by that - I'd prefer they make me a great burrito...I'm afraid I'm gonna screw it up (which I usually do). In any case, the quality of the food at Chipotle is excellent as is the taste.

Cisco's Mexican Restaurant is at 1712 E Avenida De Los Arboles, Thousand Oaks (805.497.3959) and 686 Lindero Canyon Drive, Oak Park (818.879.1150). Cisco’s serves reliable traditional style Mexican fare. It has been awhile since I’ve been there but as I recall the food is pretty good. Margaritas are good there too as I recall.

Del Taco is at 591 North Ventu Park Rd., Newbury Park (805.499.4439), 848 Los Angeles Ave., Moorpark (805.552.0654), 1408 E. Los Angeles Ave., Simi Valley (805.527.1939), 2000 N. Rose Ave., Oxnard (805.988.7500) and 4393 E. Main Street, Ventura (805.642.2145). I personally don’t see much difference between Del Taco and Taco Bell but they both serve a need. Quick, cheap, fast food.

El Pollo Loco locations in the area include 2750 Camino Dos Rios, Newbury Park (805.480.9050), 591 Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks (near Janss Marketplace) (805.370.0330), 399 North Las Posas, Camarillo (805.482.4009), 5050 Kanan Road, Agoura Hills (818.706.0766), 1111 E. Los Angeles Avenue, Simi Valley (805.522.6363), 2780-A, Tapo Canyon Road, Simi Valley (805.581.4884), 3155 Saviers Road, Oxnard (805.385.9800), 200 Vineyard Blvd., Oxnard (805.382.9975) and 1722 S. Victoria, Ventura (805.654.1723). Want really inexpensive, decent fast Mexican food? Can’t beat EPL’s $1 “Loco Value Menu.” The food is sometimes hit or miss but overall I can’t think of a better value for your dollar. But you can’t compare the food here to the “higher end” Mexican fast food chains. This is my top choice for VALUE. R

El Torito Mexican Restaurant & Cantina is at 449 North Moorpark Rd., Thousand Oaks (805.497.3952), 2498 Erringer Road, Simi Valley (805.522.6882) and 1720 E. Ventura Blvd., Oxnard (805.485.4887). While I want to dislike this place because they are not as “authentic” as the Alamos and the Lupes' of the world, that doesn’t stop me from stopping by every so often and enjoying a large, varied menu and good, filling food. Can’t go wrong here, especially after a margarita or three.

Enrique's Mexican Restaurant is at 159 E Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks (805.495.1003).   Thanks to a CVG reader tip we have learned that Enrique's is now closed.

La Salsa Fresh Mexican Grill is at 382 West Hillcrest Dr., Thousand Oaks (Oaks Mall) (805.496.1327), 180 Promenade Way, Westlake Village (805.777.0090), 341 W. Esplanade Drive, Oxnard (805.981.2276), 22800 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu (310.317.9466) and 4799 Commons Way, Calabasas (818.591.7787). La Salsa has been around since 1979. To me, this place is more authentic tasting than the Baja Freshes and Sharkys of the world. My 2 year old completely cleans his plate when we eat there. I enjoy their Carnitas Guadalajara tacos when they are piping hot.

The Latigo Kid is at 28914 Roadside Drive, #16, Agoura Hills (Whizins Shopping Center).  Several CVG visitors have indicated they enjoy Latigo Kid's traditional Mexican food with large portions and mighty margaritas (I've heard the term "killer margaritas" multiple times).  Note to self:  Visit Latigo Kid!

Los Agaves Mexican Grill is at 2350 E Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks (805.777.7532) I’m pretty sure that I dined here years ago but it was so long ago that I cannot recall the meal. One CVG reader "BN" states that the menu is mainstream Mexican-American, with some higher-end specialties...and a full bar.  Any other input out there?

Letty’s is at 2454 West Hillcrest Drive #106, Newbury Park. (805.376.2320). Letty’s serves authentic Mexican food and I used to go there all the time. Rarely did I leave Letty’s unsatisfied. A choice off the beaten path in a little strip mall close to Smart n Final.

Luna's Mexican Tradition is at 2508 Las Posas Road, Suite E Camarillo (Camarillo Village Square Shopping Center) (805.987.2277). I eat here from time to time and has been ok. You order your food, grab a bowl of chips, fill up your drink and find a table.  Simple and clean place.  I personally do not find Luna's particularly memorable but I don't hesitate eating there occasionally.

Lupe's Mexican Restaurant is at 1710 East Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks (805.495.3573). Lupe’s is a sit down place that has been around forever...1947 to be exact. Lupe's has been closed for remodeling and is set to be open for business again on June 15, 2009.  CLICK HERE for more info.

Mama Ritas is at 360 Via Las Brisas, #110, Newbury Park (805.499.9888). Mama Rita's started out as mostly a take-out place in Westlake Village (awesome chile relleno) and then branched out as a beautiful full-service restaurant in the Dos Vientos section of Newbury Park.  Have not been disappointed ever at Mama Ritas. CLICK HERE for discount coupons on Bogopod.com. (As of 4/2010 we've been informed that the Westlake Village location is closed.)

Olas Mex Grill at 1860 Ventura Boulevard in Old Town Camarillo is a lunchtime favorite at my office.  Very consistently good traditional mexican food (burritos, enchiladas, tamales, etc.) served in large portions.  Very nice people here.  My mouth is watering as I type this in fact, so I must move my head away from the keyboard so I don't slobber on it.

Qdoba Mexican Grill is at 3835-82A Thousand Oaks Blvd., Westlake Village (805.497.4747). I tried this place a handful of times but it always was just passable. This is another “make your own” place like Chipotle Grill. I guess I just prefer someone else creating my burrito to myself. Qdoba was founded in 1995 in Denver. Qdoba is now owned by Jack in the Box and has 400 locations. Qdoba was previously called Z-TECA prior to 2000. From one meaningless name to another.

Rubio’s is at 173 North Moorpark Rd., Thousand Oaks (805.557.9958), 2121 N. Rose Avenue, Oxnard (805.485.8603), 2916-B Tapo Canyon Road, Simi Valley (805.522.1504), 1788 S. Victoria Ave., Ventura (805.642.2644) and 3301 E. Main Street, Ventura (Pacific View Mall) (805.658.6712). Newer location  (2/09) in Newbury Park at 2751 W. Hillcrest Drive (805.948.6475). I enjoy bringing the kids to Rubio’s because the food is inexpensive and they enjoy the large aquarium and the toys that come with the kids meals. Otherwise, while the food generally tastes o.k., you kind of get what you pay for here. My wife hates the place but I like it every so often. Guilty pleasure...eating the kids’ quesadilla leftovers.

Sharky’s is located at 1930 Newbury Rd., Newbury Park (by Kohl's) (805.376.1404), 111 S. Westlake Blvd, Westlake Village (southwest corner of T.O. Blvd/Westlake Blvd intersection) (805.370.3701), 2410 Sycamore Drive, Simi Valley (805.522.2270), 26527 Agoura Road, Calabasas (818.880.0885) and 4960 Telephone Road, Ventura (805.339.9600). Another healthy choice for Mexican take out. Sharky’s has been around since 1992 with its first store in Sherman Oaks. I put Sharky’s on a par with Baja Fresh. I definitely enjoy the food there though I do feel that something is given up in taste in order to stay organic and healthy. So at least one does not feel guilt when dining at Sharky’s!

Snapper Jack's Taco Shack is at 4850 Verdugo Way, Ste A, Camarillo (805.384.0334) and 5100 Telegraph Road, Ventura (805.642.5111). We have been to the Camarillo location, where you walk up and order and grab a table.  They offer up beer and wine along with traditional, fresh Mexican fare.  Fun atmosphere. I was too busy running around after the kids to remember how the food tasted to be honest! But vaguely remember enjoying the fish tacos between gulps of beer!

Taco Bell locations include 791 N. Wendy Drive, Newbury Park (805.499.1316), 1330 North Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks  (805.557.0248), 25 Rancho Road, Thousand Oaks (805.495.1709), 1928 E. Avenida de los Arboles (805.492.9572), 5589 Kanan Road, Agoura Hills (818.991.8268), 95 Daily Drive, Camarillo (805.389.3283), 1505 Flynn Road, Camarillo (805.383.3355).  I’ve never been a big fan. One positive is that they are open late in case you need a grease fix.

The Sea Casa is located at 1014 South Westlake Blvd., Westlake Village (805.374.1921). When I worked in Westlake Village this place was a staple for me at least one time a week. Very tasty food with a healthy bent. Excellent service. They kick butt at lunchtime. The guy who manages the place is really on it. Boy oh boy did I always enjoy the fajita burrito there. My mouth is watering. Solid value. Really small place inside but there are also tables outside. 

Taqueria Tepatitlan Authentic Mexican Cafe is located at 362 N. Ventura Ave., Ventura (805.653.0508). I haven't been there but I hear they serve draft beer in ice cold schooners! 

3 Amigos Fresh Mexican Grill (www.3amigosonline.com) has 2 locations, 139 N. Reino Road, Newbury Park (805.499.7200) and 365 E. Avenida de los Arboles, Thousand Oaks (805.493.1033). Excellent fast food Mexican. A small place with good, quick service. Really nice people work there so I enjoy stopping by every so often. 10/22/08 UPDATE: Last night the kids and I went there and I ordered the Chicken Tortilla Soup. This soup was awesome! I think it was the best CT Soup I've ever had! Served hot, large portion, homemade with nice chicken, flavorful broth, some onions and tortillas! I ordered it as a side dish and instead it became my entire meal! I'm practically slobbering on the keyboard thinking about it. The kids loved the quesadilla, rice and beans and the portions were quite large. One thing I don't like there is the shredded chicken. 

Yolanda's Mexican Cafe has 4 locations, including 86 E. Daily Drive, Camarillo (805.389.9922), 590 East Los Angeles Avenue, Simi Valley (805.306.9933), 1601 South Victoria Avenue, Oxnard (805.985.1340) and 2753 E. Main Street, Ventura (805.643.2700).  Yolanda's serves traditional Mexican food in my favorite style...LARGE portions!  But Yolanda, if you read this, why don't you open your Camarillo location at lunch during the week!? One CVG reader states they enjoy the enchiladas and margaritas here. Another reader says "The food was superb and the service was great. I just loved my chicken enchilada! The place was clean and looked brand new."

Yolies Fresh Mexican Grill is located at 138 W. Main Street, Ventura (805.652.0338). They have a buffet lunch Mon-Fre, Sunday Champagne Brunch, heated outdoor patio, etc.

So there you have it! I think I have indigestion now. Would love to hear your comments.

Today, Bandits is located in a nearly brand new HUGE stand-alone, beautiful restaurant/bar adjacent to the old location and the Janss Marketplace Car Wash and the food is better than ever.  Bandits has a fun, Western feel to it. Everything I've ever eaten at Bandits is delicious, including ribs, tri-tip, BBQ pulled pork sandwich, burgers, sandwiches. Everything. But I do like to eat "healthy" so I often order the Barbecue Chopped Salad or the Tri-Tip Salad.  Be prepared to eat half the salad and take the rest home, as portions are huge.

Recently I dined at Bandits Thousand Oaks with my 7 year old. I value his opinion on restaurants, but actions speak louder than words.  The way he downed his BBQ pulled pork sandwich and corn on the cob, followed up by his Build-Your-Own-Sundae, it was quite obvious he LOVED the food.  He also thoroughly enjoyed the entertaining kids' menu games and puzzles.  As I kicked back with my kid, cold beer and delicious food, I observed many, many families enjoying the woodsy, busy, buzzing atmosphere of Bandits.

As of March 2010, all the kids meals on the "Young'un Menu" for kids 10 and under were $4.99, including beverage. Meals include tri-tip sandwich, tri-tip plate, cheeseburger, mini corn dog, chicken strips, BBQ pulled pork sandwich, grilled cheese or baby back ribs (these were $6.99 for 4 ribs), plus choice of side.  The sundae was only $1.79.

I'm also a fan of the Camarillo Bandits in Old Town Camarillo. Quality of the food here is consistent with Thousand Oaks.  This location is not quite as large as Thousand Oaks but big enough, also with a Western feel, with a hitching post saloon! What I like at this location is the huge barrel of peanuts that you scoop up, place on your table, then throw the shells on the ground (at least that's what I do...it's cool...its part of the atmosphere). Problem is, sometimes I eat so many peanuts I have little room left for my meal!

Bandits locations are at 589 N. Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks (805.497.7427) and 1980 Ventura Boulevard, Camarillo (805.445.4742). Visit www.banditsbbq.com for more information.

Ameci's Pizza and Pasta is at 1560 Newbury Road, #3, Newbury Park (805.499.8300), 30651 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd, Agoura (818.889.7722), 1724 Avenida de los Arboles, Thousand Oaks (805.493.2914), Westlake Village (DELIVERY ONLY) (818.889.7778), 302 W. Los Angeles St., Moorpark (805.529.3399) and 2780 Tapo Canyon Blvd., Simi Valley (805.581.9770) www.amecipizzaandpasta.com  (Check the Ameci's website for coupons!) Fifteen years or so ago when I was on a tight budget I would cut coupons and buy the largest Ameci pizza and eat it for days. A nice, thin, simple pizza. And cheap! Good place to go on a budget. Mostly delivery and take out.

Cafe Topanga is at 171 North Reino Road, Newbury Park (805.498.2166) Decent food at this place. They deliver. I've only had their pizzas a few times and they were pretty good. Anyone have comments?

California Pizza Kitchen is at 2200 East Thousand Oaks Blvd.,Thousand Oaks (at The Lakes) (805.777.1778), 100 Promenade Way, Westlake Village (CPK "ASAP" fast service CPK with limited menu), (805.374.2727) and 1555 Simi Town Center Way, #790, Simi Valley (Simi Valley Town Center) (805.522.0030) www.cpk.com Tasty pizza with a large selection. Can't go wrong. Beautiful, clean chain of restaurants. I like the pasta dishes there more than the pizza.  Recently visited the Thousand Oaks location with the kids and they both ordered the Mac and Cheese kids' meal.  Large adult-sized portion came in a large bowl and I thought it was tasty.  But they only ate 4 or 5 bites of it.  Problem is that kids envision Kraft Mac n Cheese everywhere they go and usually at decent places like CPK they serve regular Fusilli pasta with cheesy sauce.  Like I say, I liked it but they didn't.  Live and learn.  Next time it'll be back to pizza.

Chuck E. Cheese's is at 130 West Hillcrest Drive, Thousand Oaks (805.497.2522) and 4714 Telephone Road, Ventura (805.644.9777) www.chuckecheese.com (Prior location in Simi Valley has been closed.) I'm embarrassed to admit that I actually enjoy taking the little ones to this place. Where else can you enjoy yourselves with the kids (well, maybe 100 of them running around at the same time), drink beer, enjoy decent chicken ciabatta sandwiches, watch the kids enjoy their PIZZA (which by the way has the consistency of chewy cardboard, but that's o.k....they love it and I consume their crusts), and play some fun games.

Costco is at 5700 Lindero Canyon Road, Westlake Village (818.597.3900), 2001 East Ventura Blvd., Oxnard (805.983.4200) and 2660 Park Center Drive, Simi Valley (805.578.3301). (And allegedly one of these days we will see a Newbury Park Costco near the 101 and Wendy). www.costco.com I love Costco pizza.  Huge slices of pizza for small sums of money.  My top choice for bargain pizza that is well stocke

California Pizza Kitchen (CPK)

CPK has what I believe to be a fairly priced kids menu, with pizzas, pastas and chicken dishes currently ranging from $5.49 to $6.49, including beverage.  And desserts are only 99 cents. CPKids menus is for ages 10 and under. You can also sign up the kiddos for the CPKids Birthday Club and they get a FREE meal on their birthday month! 

Visit the CPK website at www.cpk.com. Local Ventura County locations as of 3/1/10:

Simi Valley Town Center, Simi Town Center Way #790 (805.522.0030)

The Lakes at Thousand Oaks, 2200 Thousand Oaks Boulevard (805.777.1778)

Pacific View Mall Ventura, 3301 E. Main Street (805.639.5060)

Promenade at Westlake, 100 Promenade Way (805.374.2727) (This is a CPK ASAP, a quick serve CPK location where you order and seat yourself. They have a condensed menu here but food is equal to traditional sit down CPK locations.)

We visit the Newbury Park location, where Niko, the amazingly outstanding manager has worked for many years.  This guy is "on it" - completely in control of that restaurant, ensuring customers are happy.  He is excellent at multi-tasking. He's taking orders while keeping an eye out on the tables, making sure everyone has what they need. They serve you the food at your table. I tried to clean off my table when we finished but he wouldn't let me!

This is "healthy" fast food. What I like is that I've NEVER had a bad meal here.  Very consistent quality. And the place is always immaculate...at least the Newbury Park location that I frequent.

Ventura County Daphne's Locations (as of February 2010):

Newbury Park: 1015 Broadbeck Lane, Unit F (805-480-0449)

Thousand Oaks: 265 N Moorpark Road, Suite A (805-418-1775) (Janss Marketplace)

Camarillo: 2390 Las Posas Road (805-389-0575)

Moorpark: 888 New Los Angeles Ave. Suite A (805-531-9310)

Simi Valley: 2667 Tapo Canyon Rd. Suite B (805-526-0450)

Ventura: 1708 S Victoria Ave., Ste B (805-477-0276)

Visit www.daphnesgreekcafe.com for more information and menu.  You can also order online for either pickup or dining there, which is pretty cool. Although I haven't used the online order system, it looks really easy to use.

1. Not just the kids love the food there!  I do too!  I love the simplicity of the menu...pick a pasta, pick a sauce, pick an "add-in" and pick a size.  And we've never gone wrong with the food at Presto Pasta!
2. The quality of the food at Presto Pasta is very consistent.  I usually order tortellini with tomato meat sauce and by golly, it tastes good every single time I eat it!  For another $3 or so I get a combo meal with a salad and drink.  Of course we're not talking fancy here, so don't expect a gourmet fancy meal. But this is the place to come for a quality, budget meal out.
3. The kids usually order rigatoni with butter and parmesan and again, the quality is always solid and they enjoy it.  The combo kids meal costs less than $5 and comes with pasta, bread, drink and a cookie!
4. Presto Pasta is always clean, the staff always smiles and service is quick.  We order, sit down and I attempt to entertain the restless troops, and thankfully within 5 minutes we usually have our food.  Suddenly it gets really quiet at the table (trust me, this is a very rare event)!

I can feed my family a healthy, enjoyable meal from Presto Pasta for only $20 to $25.  Gotta love that!

Visit the Presto Pasta website at www.prestopasta.com. Ventura County locations are at 1025 Broadbeck Road, Newbury Park (805.498.7737), 5722 Telephone Road, Ventura (805.658.2898) and 1701 Daily Drive, Camarillo (805.445.7737).  Camarillo location also has drive-thru!  We have been to all 3 of these locations and they all have inside seating.

But I digress. We never go wrong at Islands. We being me and da boyz. The kids absolutely love the food at Islands and I appreciate the fact that it is priced right.  As of February 2010 most kids' meals are $4.99 (including hamburger, grilled cheese, quesadilla, hot dog and mac & cheese). The crispy chicken tenders are $5.99.

Each kids meal comes with a drink and fries. But the fries can be substituted with carrots AND applesauce, which I think is OUTSTANDING that they offer up this healthy alternative!  If the kids want fries, they share some of mine...the serving is HUGE!

To top that off, they offer up a $1.29 "jr. sundae" with vanilla ice cream, chocolate syrup, whipped cream and a cherry.  Once again, Islands NAILS it because not only the price is right, but the serving portion is right!  Not too much, which I think is great.

Even the kids menu activities are perfect for the kids. My 7 year old enjoys the puzzles and word search games while the 4 year old busys himself smashing and gnashing his crayons the menu (and intermittently on the table).

Other than the great, cold, refreshing draft beer and the decent margaritas, I've tried and thoroughly enjoyed Islands' burgers (tried the Hawaiian burger with pineapple, terriyaki sauce and swiss and it was delish), definitely the excellent fries and the bottomless tortilla soup. I tried the fish tacos once and for whatever reason didn't like those as much (probably because while my head told me order the fish, my gut was telling me to go with the burger...note to self...go with the GUT).

There are currently 3 Islands in Ventura County:

Newbury Park, 935 Broadbeck Drive (Near Home Depot/Target) (805.498.7481)

Agoura Hills, 29271 Agoura Road (at Kanan) (818.879.8550)

Simi Valley, 1212 Simi Town Center Way (805.577.0693).

Visit the Islands website at www.islandsrestaurants.com for more information and a menu.