After being away for almost a month, I was ecstatically surprised to return to La Jolla unveiling so many new restaurants. Settling back into reality after an incredible trip abroad was less painful with the distractions of these new eateries that popped up around every turn I made. The food scene in La Jolla has been elevated by these newcomers who have taken cuisine to a heightened level of creativity. My future is bright with new dining adventures ahead, and so is yours!
Executive Chef, Anthony Wells, formerly at the acclaimed Juniper & Ivy spearheads the new penthouse-level eatery at the Hotel La Jolla in La Jolla Shores. Expect beautiful sunset and sea views through the floor-to-ceiling windows, a peek into the open kitchen, a soothing setting of blues and beiges, and a perfectly executed meal.
pros: creative menu with delicious results, eye-catching views
cons: the floating island dessert is overly sweet, and staff continuously forgot to bring serving utensils along with dishes
must order: mojo peppers stuffed with eggplant duxelles, topped with salsa; brassica “caesar” with pickled ramps, crispy quinoa, and tonnato sauce; and the half-grilled snapper
La Jolla can now proudly flex having this new addition led by another celebrity chef, Tara Monsod of Animae. Monsod gives this sexy French steakhouse a twist with Asian and coastal touches. The decor is a sultry mix of leather, velvet, wood, and mood lighting; guests dress the part to contribute to the attractive scene. As you enter, the bustling bar greets you first, one that will surely lure La Jollans out past their abnormally early retreat times. Le Coq masterfully sets the tone for a long, lingering dinner over craft cocktails like the Boulevardier Noisette and solid dishes. I want to return soon to delve into other dishes that looked more enticing than the ones ordered.
pros: parisian feel, great service, unique menu, striking bar
cons: two scales were in the tuna tartare
must order: the summer squash with pickled strawberry, gruyère, and anchovy oil is ridiculously good; i do wish i had the opportunity to taste more dishes and will return soon to taste menu items that caught my eye
The restaurant scene in San Diego is saturated with Mexican cuisine yet this Mexico-based chain chose to take a risk and open a location in La Jolla. The team knows they bring a “wow factor” to stand out and drown out the competition. The food is unbelievably good, purposefully diverting from the standard menu found at many Mexican restaurants. Seafood-inspired with vegetarian options, a lively tropical vibe, and great service make this a keeper!
pros: outstanding dishes, complimentary sauce sampler, a very spicy homemade hot sauce
cons: faces traffic-heavy la jolla boulevard, they don’t accept reservations, only beer and wine for now
must order: ahi tuna tostada with thinly sliced tuna, caramelized onion, aioli, cucumber, ponzu over a tostada; battered fish taco, “kalifornia” taco with a california pepper, shrimp, melted cheese, and special sauce cream; “roka” crunchy shrimp with ponzu sauce, aioli, and lemon
Steak 48, is hands-down the best steak house in San Diego. Refined elegance in a modern setting meets high-level service and an ideal menu for celebrating any occasion. Every single bite of every single dish was just heavenly. A grande dining experience like this comes with a high price tag but it’s worth every penny.
pros: the hostess called me the next day to follow up on our dinner and to ensure we had a stellar time- no restaurant has ever done this!
must order: sasanian royal osetra caviar; australian tajima wagyu; filet mignon; cookies & cream popcorn sundae
Executive Chef Bryn McArthur recently transformed Amaya into a Parisian Brasserie with an outstanding menu at the beautiful Fairmont Grand Del Mar. The expansive space and outdoor patio lend themselves to hosting unique events like a five-course dinner with wine pairings from the acclaimed Silver Oak Winery. The evening began with a refreshing course of heirloom melons on top of a mint yogurt paired with a Twomey Sauvignon Blanc resulting in a refreshing way to prepare for the meal ahead. Next came a brilliantly prepared smoked swordfish served with Santa Barbara Uni, dill, fennel, and miso pot de creme paired with a glass of Twomey Pinot Noir. The flavors began to elevate even further at this point in the meal as the wines and dishes became more bold. I’m not one to enjoy cheese for dessert but the 12-month-aged Mimolette with preserved blackberry and hazelnut praline paired with a Silver Oak 2018 Cab was perfection; in fact, it deserved a standing ovation. Experimenting with food and wine in these ways not only pleases the palate but heightens the senses, forcing you to slow down and pay attention to the flavors and ingredients presented. Enjoying a meal like this with friends who also appreciate food and wine uplifts the meal even more. Look out for future events similar to this at Amaya.
Opening Day at the Del Mar Fairgrounds
There’s always something fun to do in San Diego and July brings many locals and tourists to the Del Mar Fairgrounds for the horse races. Opening day comes with a fashion show filled with stylish partygoers showing off their best hats. Betting on a horse or two and watching it win, or lose, is exhilarating; either way, you’ll find yourself screaming with the crowd hoping the horse you bet on can hear your cheers. Friends gather to people-watch while others dance the night away at a multitude of parties.
I’ve said this many times before, San Diego is infused with a food scene and fun factor that overflows. Those who call it home are lucky ducks and those who visit can expect a fantastic vacation. If you haven’t traveled here yet, what are you waiting for?
