Translated as “the jewel,” La Jolla is one of Southern California’s brightest gems. Discover 7 La Jolla restaurants that offer both fine dining and jaw-dropping coastline views.
1. Brockton Villa
Housed in a charming, original La Jolla beach cottage, Brockton Villa offers coastal dining at its finest with breakfast, lunch and dinner offerings. Pair your view of the iconic La Jolla Cove with the Wine Down by the Sea special ($30, 3-6 p.m. daily) which features a burrata board and bottle of house red or white wine.
See website for hours. 1235 Coast Blvd., La Jolla, 858.454.7393. brocktonvilla.com
2. Cusp Dining & Drinks
Fresh, seasonal ingredients? Check. Spectacular views of the Pacific? Check. Creative, sophisticated dishes? You bet. This La Jolla escape offers an array of indulgent menu items including smoked salmon white frittata, roasted Brussels sprouts with sunny side egg and lamb shoulder parpadelle pasta. Craft cocktails and a comprehensive wine list round out the libation offerings.
See website for hours. 7955 La Jolla Shores Drive, La Jolla, 858.551.3620. cusprestaurant.com
3. Duke’s La Jolla
Named after the father of modern surfing, this coastal dining destination melds together the culture of Hawaii and Southern California. Expect breakfast, lunch and dinner options alongside specials like $3 Tacos on Tuesday (5-8 p.m. in the Barefoot Bar), Aloha Hour (M-F 3-6 p.m.) and a three-course Chef’s Tasting Menu ($25, M-F 5-6 p.m.).
See website for hours. 1216 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.5888. dukeslajolla.com
4. Eddie V’s
Coastline views set the scene for a night of luxurious La Jolla fine dining. Savor fresh seafood and steaks—hand cut and aged for more than 28 days—while you relax and bask in the calm atmosphere. Check the live jazz calendar to see who takes the stage in the V Lounge each night.
See website for hours. 1270 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.459.5500. eddiev.com
5. George’s at the Cove
Three dining destinations wrapped into one venue, George’s at the Cove offers a little something for everyone. On the lower level, find California Modern which celebrates the diverse flavors of San Diego’s culinary scene. Moving up, craft cocktails and a newly revamped interior offers a refreshing and relaxed vibe at Level2. For the best sunset views, make a beeline for a table on the upper deck at Ocean Terrace.
See website for hours. 1250 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.4244. georgesatthecove.com
6. Marine Room
An iconic SoCal landmark for 75 years and counting, Marine Room’s up-close-and-personal beachfront location is hard to beat. Indulge in elegant, inventive dishes from award-winning executive chef Bernard Guillas while you watch the ocean kiss the coast. On days with high tides, expect the surf to playfully shower the windows.
See website for hours. 2000 Spindrift Drive, La Jolla, 858.459.7222. marineroom.com
7. The Med
Enjoy masterful Southern California surf and turf fare with a Spanish twist. Menu highlights include carne asada benedict, Baja shrimp chilaquiles, sea scallops and tiger stripe fig, spiny lobster and wild mushroom, among others. Stunning views of the La Jolla Cove and Pacific Ocean round out this fine dining experience.
La Valencia Hotel, 1132 Prospect St., La Jolla, 858.454.0771. lavalencia.com