SAN DIEGO (CBS 8) - If you believe that all sausages are created equal, than you need to watch them grind one out at Hillcrest's Salt and Cleaver.
"We're using exact proteins like duck and lamb, as well as things like rib eye that people are really familiar with. So we're taking the average idea of what sausage is -- that typical pork bratwurst -- and we're adding some flair," Carlos Anmartano said.
First the gourmet sausages are pan warmed in the oven, before they are flamed up on the grill.
"We like to grill everything here," Carlos said.
Sadie Rose grilled buns are complimented with some exotic toppings.
"On the rib eye sausage, we're putting a Brussels slaw, goat cheese and a little fried Brussels on the top," Carlos said.
Then there's a duck and bacon sausage topped with orange marmalade.
"We add a really nice flavorful mayonnaise, and then add some fresh bacon bits and a little Worcestershire sauce," Carlos said. "We take some of the gorgeous duck confit that we've crisped up. That's our Duck, Duck, Pig."
And for something completely foreign to the frank, there's the coconut crab curry, topped with Maryland crab meat and homemade kimchi. You're starting to get the idea.
"It doesn't look like your average hot dog place right here," Carlos said. "One of our favorite things that we're making right now is this wonderful grilled kale salad. We created a really unique dressing. It's a butternut squash Caesar dressing."
Now at Salt and Clever, not every wiener is a walk on the wild side. Your basic brats and frankfurters, as well as cheeseburgers, pulled pork and fries are a popular part of the menu. And everything can be paired up with clever cocktails and craft beers.
"Sausage and beer go hand and hand," Carlos said.
On Fifth Avenue encased in the heart of Hillcrest grinds the soul of a sausage that dares to be different.
Salt and Cleaver
3805 5th Avenue
San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 756-6677