A Hidden Deli with an Open Dance Floor

The last thing I expected to do on this Lunchcombers assignment was swing dance on camera. Ann and I walked into Johnny's Rutherford Cafe without knowing much about the place except that a Carlsbad Patch viewer suggested we check it out.

Right when we walked in, Johnny was at the counter and I noticed a flier for swing dance lessons. Turns out, Johnny not only teaches dancing, but he was a jazz dancer in Vegas, a disco dancer in clubs in the 70s, and a instructor. The minute I said, “I took swing dancing lessons,” he replied, "Great! We'll dance." He wasn't joking, and he is a great dancer! He's also a great restaurant owner. 

opened 16 years ago. The location is in a business park at 2262 Rutherford Rd. in Carlsbad. The menu is extensive with sandwiches, soups, salads, wraps, smoothies, breakfast and more. You'll find items like eggplant and portabella mushrooms on the menu. I ordered off the low carb menu. 

Seems Ann always orders the turkey sandwich, and this time she left it up to Johhny to order for her.  She got a unique turkey sandwich with a squash dressing called “Can You Dig It?” After eating it, Ann said, “Can I dig it? I can. The ‘Can You Dig It’ is one good sandwich.”

Johnny not only offers healthy eating options, his cafe is incredibly “green” with compostable containers, cups and utensils. 

The environmental awareness raised Ann's “fork” rating to the max, remarking, “I gotta tell you, Johnny, you get a five forks hands down.”

I was hooked when ’50s music started playing. I gave the meal five forks as well.

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