Food Reviews: Alberto's & Rumblefish

Alberto's is located on Garey Ave. in Pomona, just south of Arrow Hwy.

Presenting as a fast-food joint (complete with 24 hour drive-up), Alberto's should only be enjoyed when one has the time to sit and savor. Ignorant of this, I supped on the shrimp burrito while on the run from campus through my errands and to home.

The burrito is mission-style: heavy, girthy, and deeeeeee-lish-ee-US! The shrimp burrito boasted more prawns than I expected, neither fishy in flavor nor tough and overcooked. Perfect. With them comes rice, fajita style onions and peppers, some cheese and a zestarific pico de gallo, all wrapped in what is clearly a house-made tortilla. Rumors are that the food is typically spicier during the day than after dark.

Safety note: another reason that Alberto's should be savored slowly, and not on the run is that the food is HOT. I'm talking temperature-wise, here. It can pose a hazard when behind the wheel.

The menu is considerable with a plethora of burritos and combination platters available. Prices are typical for giant burritos: $4.55 for the shrimp. $4.95 for the Supreme carne asada. Each could easily be two meals.

Rumblefish is located in the strip mall across from the Ross Dress for Less and adjacent to the Jessica McClintock on Moreno St. in Montclair.

The three of us probably ate enough for 6, but for $25 each (including tip) that ain't bad at all. Highly recommend the baked scallop roll, which is tantamount to a California roll covered in a heap of sauteed onions, mushrooms and tender, wee bay scallops. Big points. Big meal.

The spicy tuna roll indeed lives up to its name, the salmon nigiri was soft, succulent and slim--just the way God intended salmon to be eaten. The rainbow roll was a colorful delight, topped with razor thin slices of red onion. The shrimp tempura is a beast--each slice needed to be cut in two just fit IN the mouth. The thing to remember about Rumblefish is that the rolls are long, and the rolls are fat. So be prepared to gorge, or be prepared to share.

I've slept off my sushi coma now, and am getting ready for another food party. This kind will involve grilled fois gras and champagne. Looking forward to it.