Quite simply put, you have to check out Paradisaea Restaurant in Bird Rock. Based on my recent meal, it was seriously one of the best dining experiences we’ve had in a while. Paradisaea was recently added to the Michelin Guide’s California restaurant selections. That means it is now officially recognized as part of Michelin’s recommended restaurants, and it is eligible for future honors like a Bib Gourmand or a star. This is a big deal for the La Jolla dining scene and gives your post a strong update.
The food from Executive Chef Anders Rubini Jensen was fresh, flavorful, and had so much attention to detail. The drinks are creative and well-thought-out. The service was attentive and professional. And the upscale tropical vibes lent so much to having such a memorable dining experience. It is very easy to understand why Paradisaea Restaurant is recognized in the Michelin Guide.
Why Paradisaea RESTAURANT Deserves a Spot on Your List
Everything about Paradisaea Restaurant feels upscale and inviting. It started the moment I walked in and noticed a staff that knew the menu inside and out. They made some great recommendations. At all times, the restaurant was full. People were enjoying drinks at the 24-seat bar and the dining area. Having a pianist added so much to the inviting vibes.
Paradisaea Restaurant is located in the historic and iconic “Piano Building” at La Jolla Boulevard and Bird Rock Avenue. The owners, Eric and Zoe Kleinbub had an amazing vision. They transformed the restaurant into an upscale dining space, and succeeded.
Paradisaea launched a new cocktail menu with creative drinks inspired by its tropical theme. It also began a Sunday Supper series featuring a set three-course dinner with seasonal dishes.
What to Order for the Best Paradisaea Experience
The food? Incredible. Executive Chef Anders Rubini Jensen clearly knows what he’s doing. Every dish at Paradisaea Restaurant was beautifully plated, like a work of art, but more importantly, everything tasted amazing. You can tell he puts a ton of thought into every ingredient, balancing bold flavors with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Originally from Copenhagen, Denmark, chef Anders emphasizes local, fresh ingredients in his dishes. When you talk to him, it’s impossible to miss his passion and pride in these dishes.
HOUSE BAKED SOURDOUGH BORN IN COPENHAGEN
Thyme, French butter
JAPANESE HAMACHI
White soy, tangerine, kumquat
GRASS FED BEEF TARTARE
Remoulade, kohlrabi pickle, cured egg yolk, house rye bread
SAGE HILL SPROUTING CAULIFLOWER
Almond and truffle aioli, burgundy truffle
HOKKAIDO SCALLOPS
Parsnip puree, cipollini onions, oyster mushrooms, Nueskes bacon
ORGANIC HEIRLOOM CHICKEN BALLOTINE
Golden chanterelles, sunchokes, apple bacon butter. tarragon, jus de volaille
SNAKE RIVER FARMS GOLD LABEL WAGYU
Snake River Farms New York strip with caramelized onion purée, potato pavé, field greens, and béarnaise sauce.
PARADISAEA
White rum, Banana, Black Sesame Seed, Lime
SCARLET L’IWI
Tequila, Italian Aperitivo, Pineapple, Cinnamon, Lime
BAKED ALASKA FLAMBÉ
COCONUT CRÈME BRULEE
SEASONAL SORBET
Paradisaea Restaurant has a Menu That Showcases Exceptional Food
Recent listings shows Paradisaea Restaurant remains highly rated on reservation platforms, with strong reviews and updated menus. Chef Anders from Paradisaea Restaurant participated in the Sage Hill Ranch Garden Farm-To-Table series and Harvest 2025.
Bird Rock is a community close to La Jolla, where you will find other great restaurants.
