A mall restaurant? No way that is fine dining. That’s what I would’ve thought years ago. But Lucrezia La Jolla at Westfield UTC flips that idea on its head. This restaurant delivers some of the best Italian food in San Diego, and I don’t say that lightly.
I’ve now been to Lucrezia multiple times, and every visit, I have left impressed. The dishes are thoughtful, and the service is on point. The wine list is top-tier, and the cocktails at Lucrezia La Jolla are creative.
Where to Find the Best Authentic Italian Food in La Jolla
The menu has all of the dishes you would expect to find at a fine-dining Italian restaurant. Antipasti, insalata, pizza, pasta, and secondi.
Some of my favorite dishes on the menu include the grilled lamb chops, crudo, and polpo alla griglia. For a special treat, order the al tartuffo pizza (mushroom). They shave Italian truffles over the top right at the table. Iit is a tasty and exquisite treat.
I also highly recommend the rigatoni spicy vodka at Lucrezia La Jolla. It is one of the most popular dishes on the menu. The sauce was so creamy and flavorful.
The bar is stylish, lively, and perfect for a cocktail (or three) with a friend. The outdoor deck is cozy and inviting, especially when the San Diego sun is doing its thing. The indoor dining room is where Lucrezia La Jolla really shines. It is elegant, beautifully designed, and the kind of place you book when you want to impress.
Handmade dishes and Fresh Ingredients
The staff know their menu and seem to love helping you pick the perfect dish. Pro tip: Trust them as they won’t steer you wrong.
Lucrezia La Jolla has a great 3-course lunch special for $29: choose a starter (oysters, arancini, or a salad); secondi (pasta bolognese, chicken parm, branzino); and end your meal with gelato or sorbetto.
Lucrezia La Jolla has an aperitivo hour menu available every day at the bar. It’s from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. You will find oysters on the half-shell, arancini, and meatballs. For something decadent and delicious, order the fried chicken with caviar and crème fraiche. The juicy chicken pairs unexpectedly well with the tangy crème fraiche.
I am not surprised that my dining experience at Lucrezia La Jolla was so exceptional, as it is owned by Grupo Hunan in Mexico City. They own 30 restaurants, including Alma, Negroni, and Prosecco.
Lucrezia La Jolla isn’t just a restaurant in a mall; it’s a full-on dining experience. And if you haven’t been yet, well… what are you waiting for?
If you are visiting La Jolla for the first time, you will find it as a warm seaside community. It’s known for its beaches, natural beauty, and upscale lifestyle.
