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Operating under the philosophy of new American comfort food, Urban Solace has proved to be a breath of fresh air for experienced San Diego diners.

In the thriving center of North Park, Urban Solace offers an eclectic selection of appetizers, entrees, sandwiches, and desserts featuring both traditional dishes and old favorites served with surprising new twists.

You won't be able to resist a starter like the Nosh Plate, a sampler of house mix olives, spiced nuts, and pickled mushrooms. Another must-try item is the plate of Famous Warm Cheese Biscuits with orange-honey butter. If you're looking for something from the sea, consider the Pan Roasted Black Mussels with smoked tomato butter or the Skillet Shrimp and Chili Grit Cakes.

Some wonderfully imaginative entrees ($13-17) include Cider and Molasses Glazed Free Range Half Chicken with Yukon gold potato gratin and glazed carrots and the Wisconsin White Cheddar Mac n' Cheese with caramelized bacon and charred tomatoes. For a more familiar touch, try the Not Your Momma's Meatloaf including ground lamb, figs, pine nuts, feta cheese and celery root mash. Dessert offerings include the tempting Strawberry-Blackberry Shortcake, made with cornmeal shortcake and the amazingly decadent Peanut Butter and Chocolate Crème Brulee.

Urban Solace also hosts their signature Bluegrass Brunch every Sunday. This brunch menu with a southern flair is served on the patio and accompanied by some of San Diego's best local musicians. Clearly, Executive Chef Matt Gordon, a 17-year veteran of the restaurant industry, has whipped up some fun and exciting possibilities where, as the name suggests, you might find a small respite in the middle of the city.

Insider Tip: Make sure you also keep an eye out for Chef Matt's Cooking Spot on local television station KUSI.