There is no shortage of great La Jolla restaurants, especially in the downtown area. I love that there is such an eclectic mix of restaurants, offering everything from upscale dining experiences with ocean views to charming neighborhood restaurants and cozy cafes.
If you’ve ever followed a 5-star Yelp review and ended up having a bad meal, I can relate. I skip the hype and tell the truth about where to eat in La Jolla.
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Where to Eat in La Jolla: The Best Picks
The La Jolla restaurant scene is vibrant and diverse, you will find an array of options for fresh seafood, Mexican food, sushi, and international options. Here are my favorites. If I missed any of your favorites on my list, I hope you will let me know.
Ocean Terrace at George’s at the Cove
Among La Jolla restaurants, George’s at the Cove stands out for its ocean views, well-executed seafood, and consistent service. Overlooking La Jolla Cove, it delivers a complete dining experience that keeps both locals and visitors coming back. Order the burrata, grilled Spanish octopus, Hokkaido scallops, Wild Isles salmon, and finish with sticky toffee cake or guava panna cotta.
ROPPONGI
Roppongi La Jolla has just reopened in its original spot after ten years and is already one of the most talked-about La Jolla restaurants. The restaurant is warm and stylish, the sushi and the pan-Asian dishes are superb, and the service is attentive and friendly. With classic favorites back on the menu and a packed dining room on a Monday night, Roppongi La Jolla earns its place among the top La Jolla restaurants.
PIAZZA 1909
Located in an old restored beach house in La Jolla, Piazza 1909 serves authentic Italian food. Chef Stefano is from Milan, and the recipes include some handed down from his mother. The food is delicious and authentic, and the portions are generous. The specialties include pasta and pizza. I’d recommend you try one of each. One of the top La Jolla restaurants.
Paradisaea
I am not 100% technically sure that Paradisaea, a stunning restaurant in Bird Rock should be on a list of the best La Jolla restaurants, but it is close enough for me and the food is too spectacular to not include it. Executive Chef Anders Rubini leads the culinary team at Paradisaea. Every dish is beautifully plated and has bold flavors with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The cocktail menu is so creative, with unique flavors that pair perfectly with the food.
MArisi
Marisi in La Jolla ought to be on everyone’s top ten list. The food and drinks are spectacular, and equally as visually stunning is the decor. Located in downtown La Jolla, Marisi features an open kitchen, freshly made pastas, fresh seafood and a charming bar if you’re not able to get a table. Making a reservation in advance would be my strong recommendation for La Jolla restaurants. If you have the chance to be invited upstairs to watch the chefs making the fresh pasta, it’s quite a sight.
LE COQ
At the new Le Coq in downtown La Jolla, James Beard-nominated Chef Tara Monsod is serving up her spin on French classics, and I couldn’t wait to try them! Watching her make her signature tuna tartare with pickled gooseberries, caviar, horseradish, and crème fraiche set the tone for an amazing meal. I highly recommend the fresh baguette with chicken skin butter, crispy pomme darphin potato pancake, and Pistachio Paris-Brest. This is one of the La Jolla restaurants that ought to be on your list.
The Kitchen at MCASD
The Kitchen at MCASD is the perfect example of incredible dining at a museum. Located in an indoor/outdoor patio, you can enjoy beautiful views of the ocean while enjoying a delicious meal. The dishes are fresh, Mediterranean and it is casual enough for a date, or family gathering. The menu at The Kitchen is from Tim Kolanko, Chef Partner at Urban Kitchen Group (CUCINA urbana, ARTIFACT at Mingei). A great option when looking for La Jolla restaurants.
PUESTO
Puesto easily makes it on my list of top 10 La Jolla restaurants. Their food was on my list of top dishes I ate in 2023. It would be on my list of top 10 restaurants in San Diego. Ever since Puesto first opened their first location in downtown La Jolla, and expanded across San Diego, they have been committed to serving great food, creative cocktails and outstanding service. If you’ve not had their potato taquitos, it’s a must. And their signature margarita is one of my San Diego favorites too.
NINE TEN
Located in the Grande Colonial Hotel, Nine-Ten Restaurant has had the same chef since 2003. Everything about the dishes from chef Jason Knibb is 10/10. With a focus on seasonal ingredients and inventive dishes, it’s no surprise how popular Nine-Ten is. It’s a great choice for a romantic dinner or enjoying a special occasion. If sashimi is on the menu, order it! This is one of the most popular La Jolla restaurants.
CODY's
You could not ask for a prettier location in La Jolla restaurants than Cody’s. The view from the outdoor patio of Prospect Street and the ocean is a great setting to enjoy their food. A local favorite, you’ll find super tasty dishes, generous portions, craft cocktails and some of the friendliest service in San Diego. You’ll have made a great decision if you ordered the French toast, eggs benedict, fish tacos or blt from Cody’s.
THE MARINE ROOM
Easily one of the most elegant restaurants in La Jolla, The Marine Room features oceanfront dining. For 80 years, this majestic restaurant has earned fame for food and high-tide experience. If you plan your timing well, you can grab not only an amazing meal but a stunning sunset. The high tide experiences at The Marine Room absolutely need to be booked long in advance. Finally, you no longer need to wear a jacket at this La Jolla restaurants to enjoy a meal here.
BEESIDE BALCONY
With a second location in Del Mar, Beeside Balcony is a family favorite for us. The food has a Mediterranean flair, and chef Christophe changes the menu seasonally. La Jolla restaurants are perfect for a weekend outing. You can enjoy the indoor or outdoor seating area, both of which have views of the ocean. Be sure to try a cocktail made with fresh honey from their own farm, the truffle parmesan fries, seafood and steaks. Yes, there is a hidden Speakeasy in Beeside Balcony, La Jolla. You can read my full review of Beeside Balcony La Jolla.
JOSE'S COURTROOM
La Jolla restaurants offer a mix of casual and fine dining. Joe’s Courtroom in La Jolla has been open since 1972. I’d admit to having enjoyed many margaritas and tacos here during my college days. It offers a fun dining experience with a focus on Mexican cuisine and a cozy, courtroom-themed ambiance. Jose’s flights, generously sized burritos, guacamole, sizzling fajitas, and ceviche would be on my list of recommendations.
BROCKTON VILLA
Brockton Villa in La Jolla is a fantastic spot for breakfast or dinner with amazing views of La Jolla Cove. Many La Jolla restaurants like this focus on fresh, local ingredients. This charming restaurant is in a historic cottage, adding a touch of history to your meal. It is a great location to start your day with its famous brunch or enjoy a relaxing dinner, The ocean views make every meal there special. It’s a cozy place with friendly vibes and excellent service, and ideal for enjoying good food while taking in the beauty of La Jolla.
ENCANTO CAFE
I love local neighborhood coffee shops, especially when they are as charming as Encanto Café. The menu features fresh, locally-sourced and high-quality ingredients – and they take so much pride in the customer experience. I had such a great meal at Encanto Cafe. Spend 5 minutes talking to the owner Patricia, and you’ll want to be a regular there too. I’ll recommend that you try the acai bowl, avocado toast, and a waffle with their Mexican Mocha. Families love visiting La Jolla restaurants for brunch.
bIRDSEYE ROOFTOP
La Jolla restaurants often have ocean views. The views alone make Birdseye Rooftop a must on this list. Situated on top of the Cormorant Hotel, this trendy bar and restaurant serves not only delicious food and craft cocktails, but a wonderful dining experience. The views truly are stunning. No matter what you are eating, you should get the Margarita flight – it’s one of my favorite drinks on their menu. If you’re dining for dinner, you will get a stunning sunset view of the ocean.
BURGER LOUNGE
This location of Burger Lounge is where it all started, so it has to be on my list of La Jolla restaurants. I was there on opening day, and am still a regular customer today (although they have locations closer to my house). The lounge burger is my go-to favorite (grass fed beef, cheddar cheese and their 1000 island dressing). I love to pair my Burger Lounge meal with a 50/50 order of the onion rings and French fries.
Tips for Dining at La Jolla restaurants
Dining in La Jolla is a treat, but a little planning goes a long way. Date nights are easy at La Jolla restaurants.
Make a reservation
Make reservations early, especially for popular spots. You can discover hidden gems among La Jolla restaurants.
Dress appropriately
Many La Jolla restaurants have outdoor seating, so dress in layers for cooler evenings.
FINDING PARKING
Parking can be tricky, Check if the restaurant offers valet or nearby lots.
ordering dishes
You can discover hidden gems among La Jolla restaurants. Explore the menu and try fresh seafood. It’s a local favorite!
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One Response
Thanks, very great article.