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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in La Jolla

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36 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Marisi restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1062)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • La Jolla
Booked 88 times today
Discovering Italy by way of La Jolla, Marisi focuses on Italian hearth cooking with an emphasis on handmade pastas, fine wine and classic cocktails. The menu celebrates the rich diversity of cuisine from across Italy, fashioned in a time-honored tradition of handmade all day, every day. A dream that lives between the Italian and La Jolla coasts, suspended between tides instead of time — a mood more than a plot. A visit that feels a lot like coming home, if home was a warm, charming villa off the Amalfi coast. Marisi is a taste of something you want to remember. We hope you love it.
A photo of Duke's La Jolla restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(6555)
Price: Moderate
• Hawaiian Regional • La Jolla
Booked 189 times today
We are open for indoor and outdoor dining, takeout, and delivery! Visit dukeslajolla.com to view our menus or place an online takeout order.You don’t need to cross the Pacific to get a taste of Hawaii. Duke’s La Jolla is San Diego’s island-inspired home, honoring the Ambassador of Aloha, Duke Kahanamoku, with coastal cuisine of Hawaii, craft cocktails and a genuine spirit of aloha. It’s the same authentic hospitality and panoramic ocean view that you’ll find at all of the California and Hawaii Duke’s restaurants, paying tribute to the Duke and welcoming you to celebrate life like the legend himself.
A photo of Queenstown Village restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(255)
Price: Moderate
• New Zealand • La Jolla
Queenstown Village is a new hotspot in San Diego, serving a mix of New Zealand fare and American comfort food. It's raved for its vibe and ambiance, with many reviewers praising the friendly service, delicious food, and beautiful decor. It's also commended for its full bar offerings, including craft cocktails and local beers. So, if you're looking for a beautiful dining experience with great food and service, it's definitely worth the drive.
A photo of Barbarella restaurant
4.3
Awesome(835)
Price: Moderate
• European • La Jolla
Booked 55 times today
Barbarella is a restaurant and full bar located on Avenida De La Playa in La Jolla Shores. Adorned with an eclectic mix of art and boasting plenty of outdoor seating, Barbarella a one-of-a-kind culinary gem with executive Chef Lynn Crawford!
A photo of Bistro du Marché by Tapenade restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(1464)
Price: Expensive
• French • La Jolla
Bistro du Marché by Tapenade is a gem in San Diego. Reviews rave about its 'consistently delicious food', 'amazing service', and 'beautiful atmosphere'. It's described as 'the best French restaurant in San Diego' with 'authentic French cuisine'. Even the ambience is likened to eating in NYC or France, making it a 'worthwhile drive' according to several patrons. It's more than just a meal, it's an enchanting experience that you won't regret!
A photo of Ambrogio by Acquerello restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(86)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary Italian • La Jolla
Experience Michelin Star Chef Silvio Salmoiraghi’s Iconic 8 Course Tasting Menus in our charming La Jolla restaurant, recently included in the Michelin Guide.Signature Tasting Menu - $159/person. Vegetarian Tasting Menu - $139/person. A La Carte Menu: From Tuesday through Thursday, you get to enjoy the Great Classics of Italian Cuisine through the lenses of Chefs Silvio Salmoiraghi and Enea Sintoni on this special A La Carte Menu. It includes two (2) courses of choice + dessert for $99/person. Not sharable and not combinable with Tasting Menus.We seek to operate within the frame of a New Italian Cuisine. Italy, France, Korea, Japan and California: the five places that define our cuisine and allow us to create a unique set of masterpieces.Reservations require a $20/person deposit, fully refundable up to 24h in advance.We gently require a 48h notice for allergies and dietary restrictions. A full Vegan Menu is available only upon request.
A photo of True Food Kitchen - San Diego UTC restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1070)
Price: Expensive
• American • La Jolla
True Food Kitchen in San Diego UTC is a gem for those seeking a culinary adventure. The restaurant's focus on fresh, flavorful dishes crafted from conscious ingredients makes it a must-visit. As one reviewer put it, 'True Food UTC is great, not only for the food, but the warm and attentive staff.' The consistent high ratings for food, ambience, and service make it a drive-worthy destination. The fact that it is located in a nice location with friendly staff adds to the overall experience. So, if you're up for a healthy, flavorful meal in a pleasant atmosphere, True Food Kitchen is definitely worth the drive!
A photo of AR Valentien at The Lodge at Torrey Pines restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2507)
Price: Very Expensive
• Farm-to-table • La Jolla
A.R. Valentien, the signature restaurant at the AAA Five Diamond resort The Lodge at Torrey Pines, features innovative California cuisine served in a breathtaking setting overlooking the Torrey Pines Golf Course and Pacific Ocean coastline. Executive Chef Kelli Crosson uses only the best local provisions, and the menu changes daily depending on what's offered at local farmers' markets, as well as from other local growers, ranchers and fishermen. The restaurant's wine list features California wines exclusively, including a variety of boutique wineries from throughout the state. A.R. Valentien’s sophisticated design includes artwork from the restaurant’s namesake, Albert Robert Valentien, and a spacious outdoor terrace. Special events include the seasonal Artisan Table dinner series and Celebrate the Craft, an annual charity event benefiting The Ecology Center.PLEASE NOTE: We will be temporarily closed starting Dinner, October 13 - March 2025, due to kitchen enhancement renovations
A photo of Miss B's Coconut Club restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(119)
Price: Moderate
• Caribbean • Mission Beach
Booked 3 times today
What you’ll find here is classic, Caribbean-inspired American food with tiki flair. Cubano Roasted Pork, Jerk Chicken and Coconut Shrimp are in synch with the mambo rhythm of your appetite, and our house-ground burger is one like you won’t find anywhere in town. Jumbo Coconut Shrimp and a list of Street Cart items will have you coming back to try them all, whether you order something “to go” from our walk-up counter, stay to eat on our spacious outdoor patio, or take a seat inside.Coconut Club’s décor evokes a celebration of Mission Beach’s nautical and maritime past, which takes form as an inspired interpretation of a 30’s-style sailor tiki club. Rum is the star here, and has a leading role in our creative list of grownup cocktails, which includes shareable, tiki-inspired punches and bowls to drum up conversations and generate a buzz. Coconut Club is also a purveyor of fuel that fires the craft beer frenzy, with 20 local and microbrew tap handles.
A photo of Bazille - Nordstrom University Town Center restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(188)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • La Jolla
This full-service restaurant with a casually sophisticated atmosphere features bistro cuisine and a full bar. Enjoy fresh salads, specialty entrées, signature cocktails, a wine list and housemade desserts.Nordstrom is located along Genesee Avenue, between La Jolla Village Drive and Nobel Drive. Bazille is located on the 2nd floor, overlooking the main courtyard of the newly expanded UTC. We offer a full bar with wine, beer & hand crafted cocktails, as well as open patio dining. We are open for dine-in service, covered, heated outdoor patio dining and to-go orders with Curbside Pickup. Call (858) 812-3582 to place your order.Join us for Brunch on weekends;July 4th hours: 11am-5pm

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • MichaelVIP
    San Diego •26 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Our family of 5 were there for Christmas Eve dinner. We had reservations at 5:15 pm and were seated promptly. The service was very nice and took our drink orders and appetizer orders right away. We've been here many times before and had always enjoyed the ahi taco and calamari. This time I also had a Caesar salad which was good. The bar ran out of Bombay so could not have my usual Bombay tonic but substituted Tanqueray which was fine. The entrees included the Duke's fish, steamed fish and shrimp in the banana leaves, a filet medium rare and the seafood hot pot. And of course, you can't finish a meal without Hula pie. Our only wish for Christmas: have Prime Rib like they have at Duke's Huntington Beach. Otherwise, the experience was enjoyable and we shall be back.
    More info
    Duke's La JollaPrice: Moderate• Hawaiian Regional• La Jolla
    4.6
  • Tom
    Los Angeles •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Excellent Christmas Eve 5 course. Food and wine (pairing) was delicious. Staff are super cool. Love the vibe here, this was our first time. Sat outside on the patio. Heat lamps are great. Will be coming back ASAP.
    More info
    Jeune et JoliePrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary French• Carlsbad
    4.9
  • Kathleen
    Phoenix / Arizona •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Simply put, one of the best meals I have had the privilege of enjoying! Delightful server, Calvin, was very in tune with the timing of our meal and our needs. The fixed menu was perfect for Christmas Eve, as it kept the meal flowing and decision-making to a minimum. Every course was delectable from the scallop crudo, the creamed mushrooms, and the sea bass, to the date cake with walnut ice cream! Mezcal hibiscus cocktail was creative and tasty, as well! I will definitely be back!
    More info
    Herb & WoodPrice: Expensive• Californian• Little Italy
    4.7
  • GenaVIP
    San Diego •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Everything was great for an hitting. Menu selections easy to follow and they were easy to deal with with a sea food allergy
    More info
    The Melting Pot - Gaslamp QuarterPrice: Very Expensive• Fondue• Downtown / Gaslamp
    4.6
  • Sergey
    Atlanta Metro •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 7 Dec 2024
    The service was excellent, and the food was fresh and unique. They had some delicious seafood dishes, including raw oysters and Peruvian-influenced ceviches. Everything tasted amazing. The outdoor seating next to the heating lamp created a cozy atmosphere. The only downside was the limited drink selection. They offered a few cocktails but lacked most of the liquors. For instance, they couldn’t make a gin martini. On the positive side, they had a good selection of wines. Overall, we had a great experience with a touch of European charm and Peruvian flavor.
    More info
    Crudo Ceviche & Oyster BarPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Little Italy
    4.5

Discover best worth the drive restaurants in La Jolla

Discover the enchanting dining scene in La Jolla, San Diego, where each restaurant beckons with a unique promise of culinary delight. Renowned for their high-quality ingredients and exceptional service, these dining spots in La Jolla are truly "worth the drive." Whether you crave the sophistication of meticulously prepared French cuisine, the exotic flavors of Japanese fare, or the comforting touch of American dishes with a twist, La Jolla offers a diverse taste experience that caters to discerning palates. Each establishment not only emphasizes fresh, local produce but also presents a setting that enhances every meal, whether it's the casual elegance of a Californian gem or the intimate ambiance of a sushi bar. The consistent praise for the food's flavor, the ambiance's charm, and the staff's attentiveness underlines the commitment to a memorable dining experience. So, if you're looking for a meal that promises more than just satisfying hunger but an adventure that's well worth the drive, La Jolla's restaurants are your go-to destinations.

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