San Diego State University’s Independent Student Newspaper Since 1913

The Daily Aztec

San Diego State University’s Independent Student Newspaper Since 1913

The Daily Aztec




San Diego State University’s Independent Student Newspaper Since 1913

The Daily Aztec

Chef Sweeney Brings his A-game to Hillcrest

    Rich Sweeney
    Rich Sweeney

    The Hillcrest restaurant is located on the fabulous Fifth Avenue, where former Top Chef contestant Rich Sweeney is serving up some twisted takes on classic comfort food.

    “This whole block has been sprouting up more restaurants,” Sweeney said. “Soon enough we’ll be our own restaurant row.”

    R Gang Eatery lies next to some stiff competition, including the line-induced Hash House, but it offers some funky flavors that can’t be found anywhere else.

    While the food here is delectable, it’s Sweeney who will keep San Diegans coming back for a second helping. The former New Yorker moved to Hillcrest just a few years ago, but is already making a splash on the bustling restaurant scene. Sweeney said he wanted to provide a place for the locals to come have a brew and a good meal.

    “I wanted to have something that would get local people in,” he said.

    After dining here a few times, I have to say Sweeney’s got a good thing going. My personal favorite is the tater tots, followed closely by the Captain Crunch stuffed French toast. The tots seem to be Sweeney’s staple, as every table nearby ordered at least one order, if not two. What’s nice is that he snuck some foodie favorites into an otherwise ordinary dish. These tots are homemade, some filled with cheese, while others are sautéed with duck fat. The best by far are the lobster tots, which are paired great with any of the restaurant’s signature drinks.

    As for breakfast, you can’t go wrong with your favorite childhood cereal stuffed inside an elegant, fluffy French bread.

    So if you’re feeling hungry and need to see a friendly face, pop on over to R Gang Eatery. Your stomach will thank you.

    Get an inside look into R Gang Eatery:

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    San Diego State University’s Independent Student Newspaper Since 1913
    Chef Sweeney Brings his A-game to Hillcrest