Have you ever been in La Mesa and felt the need for a Radler? No, not a rattler snake – a Radler drink.

Originating in the Bavarian region of Germany it is a half beer, half soda or juice concoction. In this case grapefruit. It is typical lower in alcohol and very refreshing on a warm day. And where would you get one? At Curbside Eatery + Drinkery, of course.

Located in the heart of La Mesa Village, Brenda Leek has owned the establishment since January 2019. Bought it, and like everyone shut down for COVID in March 2020. Not the way you want to start your new business, but they survived and for that, the village is grateful.

They offer an assortment of unique cocktails, craft beers and tasty food to go with it. Leek takes her years of experience in the hospitality industry and love of food to a new level. “I’m honored, humbled and proud of what Curbside has become,” she said.

“We’re a craft bar and scratch kitchen. At least some part of every dish is made in our kitchen. Everything we serve is fresh; nothing is frozen.”

“We’re not just a sports bar even though we have the largest television in the village and multiple TVs throughout the restaurant. We’re a gathering place for people to enjoy a delicious drink and good food,” Leek added.

There are outdoor tables and bar seating facing the street (great for seeing your friends or neighbors as they stroll the boulevard or viewing events such as the Farmer’s Market every Friday 3 p.m. to 7p.m. rain or shine), as well as inside tables and bar. Don’t worry if you get chilled, they will offer you a blanket to keep warm.

“The Rose”, a cocktail created in memory of Brenda’s late mother Rose, features Broken Shed Vodka, muddled fresh strawberries and basil, fresh lemon juice, and house-made simple syrup.

Also worth trying is the Oaxacan around La Mesa (pronounced like walkin’ around La Mesa) made with Aperol and mezcal or their signature Apricot Old Fashioned made with bourbon infused with apricot tea and made to perfection.

There are some creative tequila drinks including the Dobel Skinny Margarita; the Tequila Old Fashioned and the Tequila Rosa featuring a Rosa Blanca Tequila aged in a wine barrel.

On tap, there are many craft beers to choose from including Hanger 24 Brewing- Swingin’ Friar Pale Ale, Mother Earth Brewing Co- Cali Creamin’ Nitro – Vanilla Cream Ale. For a gluten-reduced option try Duckfoot Brewing- Drink This or the Bees Die, Golden Honey Ale.

“We take service seriously. We have a large staff who are always ready and willing to make our guest’s experience pleasant,” Leek commented.

Curbside Eatery + Drinkery is located at 8353 La Mesa Blvd. For the latest menu, visit: curbsidelamesa.com/.

They are open Wednesday through Monday. Hours vary; however, try them for brunch, lunch or dinner.

– Robin Dohrn-Simpson is a local food and travel writer. Reach her at robindohrnsimpson.com.