INLAND • Guahan Grill

Dining: Inland

THE OSIDER MARCH / APRIL 2022

Guam Bomb fries Maga Lahi

GUAHAN

GRILL WORDS: KATIE LALICATA PHOTOS: ZACH CORDNER

Where family style is synonymous with island style, Guahan Grill is the kind of place thatt fills the heart (and belly) with the warm wonderful feelings of both the “islands” and home. With island fusion in their spirit and island fusion on the plate, the food here is called Guamanian or “Chamorro” style—it’s Hawaiian or Filipino flavors with a Spanish influence.

Raised in Oceanside with Chamorro in his roots, Carlsky Quichocho (and family) have been doing what they love for past twelve years and counting—grilling and serving up smiles. Every recipe here is an extension of their home. From their love of back yard BBQ’s, island jams, and good vibes, they’ve built an establishment that’s a representation of their hearts. “This is what I saw growing up. All the people from Guam in the military stuck together and they were cooking all the time. I got to see that. They brought the culture with them. And that’s one thing I really wanted when I opened up Guahan Grill. I wanted people to feel the island vibe when they’re here, the hospitality, and the food,” said Carlsky. “Keep it local. We’re having fun.” This is what’s import to Quichocho. This authentic generosity can certainly be felt in the ambiance and tasted in all the menu offerings. Mom, dad, sister, and brother and business partner Carlos are all part of the operation in one dynamic or another. They are a family business to the core, and not an ounce of love is wasted in the process.

On the surface, Guahan Grill resembles many other island fares. But like the tiny island of Guam itself, Guahan Grill has a depth of flavors and style that’s a beautiful harmonious representation of local Chamorro culture, and many other countries that brought their influences there.

Their BBQ chicken, pork, and beef are all marinated in a Chamorro style base of onion, garlic, soy sauce, and vinegar with some citrus and brown sugar. Their dishes are served in heaps. Yes, literally heaping in portions. The plates loaded to the edge—enough to feed the whole family in island-style fashion.

Their more traditional fare is represented in the Guahan Special, aka the “Fiesta Plate”—a massive presentation of meats, rice, salad, and a finadene sauce—served here with the traditional Thai style peppers on the side. The spice is a welcomed surprise, and another element that sets it apart from other islands foods.

Leaning into what makes Guahan Grill so special, Carlsky keeps more curious generations of eaters all super stoked with plates like the Guam Bomb. Living up to its name, this feast is an explosion of every flavor for the mouth. Fresh cut fries, home-style chicken, house BBQ sauce, spicy mayo, loaded with cheese, sprinkled with green onions, and holding true to island style—may Chamorro Fried Rice not be entirely complete without a cold craft draft local beer. Located just east of College Avenue on Oceanside Boulevard, they serve up the community seven days a week, and will even bring the party to you with an amazing catering service. A food truck is on the horizon, so keep your eyes peeled on social media, or stop by and get an authentic taste of the islands right here in Oceanside.

Guahan Grill 4259 Oceanside Boulevard #104 (760) 806-4826 guahangrill.com @guahangrill