Best Restaurants in La Jolla, San Diego
Located just a short drive from downtown San Diego, La Jolla is one of California's best-kept secrets. This upscale village boasts beautiful beaches, a laid-back atmosphere and is also close to a number of top San Diego attractions, such as Sea World and the San Diego Zoo. La Jolla has also earned a reputation for being home to some of the best restaurants in San Diego, including the following popular choices.
The Marine Room
Over the years, this La Jolla institution has earned numerous accolades, including being named as one of the "Top 100 Most Scenic Restaurants in America" by OpenTable and winning San Diego Magazine's "Best Water View" award in 2018. And what a view it has. At high tide, the waves can actually be seen crashing into the restaurant's glass windows. If eating at the Marine Room is on your list of things to do in San Diego, make sure to make reservations well in advance of your visit so you can get a table with a much-coveted view of the sea. The Marine Room serves French fare and seafood dishes, including crab cakes and lobsters. About the only way you could enjoy a better view of the sea is by partaking in a Full Day Snorkel Adventure in La Jolla. Address: 2000 Spindrift Drive, La Jolla, CA 92037 Phone number: (858) 459-7222
The Cottage La Jolla
Looking for a hearty meal after hitting the waves? Then head on over to the Cottage, which is a local favorite that serves classic American and Southern California-influenced dishes. The Cottage is especially popular on Sunday mornings, where the wait for a table can often be an hour or more for brunch. Some of the restaurant's most popular dishes, include smashed avocado bread, crab cake benedict, and the Morning Glory egg sandwich. Don't have a surfboard? No problem. You can get a surfboard rental with Go City®. Address: 7702 Fay Avenue, La Jolla, CA 92037 Phone number: 858-454-8409
Javier's La Jolla
It may be one of the newer La Jolla restaurants, but Javier's is already developing a devoted following. Opened in January 2019, this restaurant serves "upscale" Mexican cuisine, such as filet mignon with a chipotle cream sauce and Maine lobster enchiladas, as well as specialty margaritas. Although, this restaurant has only been open for a few months, it has already garnered almost universally good reviews on OpenTable, as well as a 4.5 star rating. Guests are not only raving about the restaurant's food, but also about its beautiful decor. Javier's is situated just a few miles from the Birch Aquarium at Scripps, making it a convenient stop to grab a bite to eat either before or after you visit that amazing aquatic wonderland. Address: 4301 La Jolla Village Drive, Suite 1000, San Diego, CA 92122 Phone: 858-200-2222
Farmer & The Seahorse
Do you enjoy sampling dishes created by celebrity chefs? Then you'll definitely want to check out Farmer & The Seahorse, which is helmed by Brian Malarkey, a popular contestant who appeared on season three of Bravo's "Top Chef." The Farmer & The Seahorse serves modern American cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, farm-to-table and sustainable dishes, such as Smoked Salmon Toast and Garlic Roasted Spaghetti Squash. This light fare would be a great way to fuel up before heading out on a Bike and Kayak Tour in La Jolla. Address: 10996 Torreyana Road, San Diego, CA 92121 Phone: 858-260-5401
Bubba's Smokehouse
If your Go San Diego pass itinerary includes a day at SeaWorld with your kids, you'll probably want to fill up on hearty food served in a casual setting. Our favorite such restaurant? Why, Bubba's Smokehouse, which is a local favorite that serves classic and affordable Southern-style BBQ, including brisket, pulled pork, hush puppies and fried okra. Bubba's Smokehouse is located just about 8 miles from Sea World. Address: 888 Prospect Street, La Jolla, CA 92037 Phone: 858-551-4227
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