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Guide to La Jolla

Bars for lunch

You want a drink and a bite to eat in a setting that is just as comfortable at noon as it is at night.

Based on 542 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
The Spot La Jolla image 1
The Spot La Jolla image 2
The Spot La Jolla image 3
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Bar and grill with ocean views and an indoor-outdoor second story creates a lively, cozy atmosphere. Outdoor seating is dog friendly and popular, while multiple sports TVs show several games simultaneously. The place fills up and gets loud, especially later in the evening.

Feels like a true locals bar with a cool, dive vibe. Bar bites include warm pretzels, calamari, and onion rings, all highly praised. A golden retriever named Jameson adds to the laid-back atmosphere.

Generous portions and a warm, charming setting make lunch here enjoyable. It suits family trips and casual work outings with a reliable, comfortable vibe.

People are saying

"The bar food here is some of the best I've ever had."

"I thought the burgers here were great and generously portioned."

"The Lunch Spot's service was friendly and excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking at The Spot can be challenging.

2

They have Trivia Night on Tuesdays.

3

Happy Hour gives $3 off appetizers.

02
Sea & Sky image 1
Californian restaurant

Top-floor setting offers spectacular ocean views and wide windows that frame the coastline. Live jazz music plays softly, creating a luxurious and cozy atmosphere with soft lighting that encourages lingering. Evening energy centers on the sunset backdrop and a full bar serving unique cocktails.

Steak and frites at the bar come with extra chimichurri and hold up well during events like the drone show. Bar staff deliver phenomenal service with welcoming, professional mixologists.

Lunch offers a simple menu with options like a wild salmon sandwich that can get messy and a well-prepared BLT. The setting is quiet during the week with few tables in use, but prices are on the higher side.

People are saying

"The view here is stunning, especially at sunset."

"This lunch spot has an amazing view of the sea and sky."

"The bar's amazing views are spectacular."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 5 pm, offering ocean views.

2

Parking is validated for guests dining at the restaurant.

3

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

03
Public House La Jolla image 1
American restaurant

Cozy converted building with indoor and outdoor seating including a heated shaded patio creates a homey vibe. Numerous sports screens and live music add casual energy. The atmosphere feels low-energy and relaxed, attracting those who enjoy a quiet spot for drinks and games.

A laid-back bar with a huge food menu and an impressive beer list offers both inside and outside seating. Sports screens and fun music create a lively vibe, while the good happy hour adds value.

Offers a relaxed and easy lunch experience with a lovely atmosphere.

People are saying

"I loved their amazing craft beer selection."

"I loved the craft beer and delicious burgers here."

"The beer selection here is really great."

Good to know

1

Half-off burgers are available on Tuesdays.

2

Happy hour offers daily specials, including half-price sliders.

3

Parking is plentiful near the restaurant.

04
Beeside Balcony La Jolla image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Open-air Mediterranean restaurant offers breathtaking ocean views and an elevated patio that reduces street noise. Live music sets a classy beach town vibe with a vibrant atmosphere that feels both lively and welcoming.

A stellar cocktail menu and a full bar offer plenty of drink options. The bartender stays exceptionally nice and attentive, even when it's quiet, making sitting at the bar a special treat.

Lunch offers a wide variety of menu options including crab cake, Chilean seabass, and burger. Service adds to the experience with attentive waitstaff.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots was spectacular and did not disappoint."

"This lunch spot's meatballs were outstanding, perfectly paired with sauce."

"The cocktails here were delicious and spot on."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great prices on drinks and appetizers.

2

The happy hour menu is available upon request from the staff.

3

Parking is generally easy, but can be difficult during peak hours.

05
Cliff Hanger Cafe image 1
Sandwich shop

Sandwich shop sits on a high cliff with spectacular ocean views and a paragliding field nearby. Atmosphere is relaxed and chill, often accompanied by loud rap music from speakers. People come to watch gliders and enjoy wood-fired pizza and top-notch sandwiches.

Great bar service complements the bar area and food options available.

Lunch comes with amazing views of the coastline and ocean. Watching paragliding adds unique entertainment while you eat in a casual, relaxed setting.

People are saying

"The view here is spectacular, especially watching the paragliders."

"The food here is great with a view of paragliders."

"I loved watching the sunset with a drink and the gliders."

Good to know

1

There is no bathroom available at the cafe.

2

The prices at the cafe are reasonable with many healthy options.

3

The views at the cafe are stunning and a major attraction.

06
La Jollita image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a relaxed beachy vibe with authentic Mexican energy and lively music that keeps noise levels comfortable for conversation. Interior features stunning, detailed decor and a spacious, dog-friendly patio. Atmosphere suits both family outings and date nights, blending cleanliness with uplifting design.

Attentive service stands out with Amanda and Oscar providing kind and professional care. Seating at the bar is available without reservations, making it easy to drop in for a snack or drink.

Offers a relaxed atmosphere suitable for lunch. Serves meals that fit both casual and special occasions during midday.

People are saying

"The food here is super fresh and high quality."

"The bar staff are so kind, professional, and attentive."

"This Lunch Spot's food tasted so fresh and well-prepared."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is limited; expect challenges finding street parking nearby.

3

The restaurant has a dog-friendly patio for outdoor dining.

07
The Grill at Torrey Pines image 1
American restaurant

Outdoor dining overlooks a golf course and sea view, creating a relaxed, family-oriented atmosphere with live music and a bonfire area. The setting feels comfortable and scenic, especially during evening hours. The place attracts golfers, families, and friends gathering for casual meals and drinks.

Comfortable bar area offers a relaxed spot to hang out. Good service keeps things smooth, and Jenny at the bar adds a friendly touch.

Lunch offers a great menu with dishes that consistently exceed expectations. The spot serves amazing food and maintains a strong reputation for satisfying midday meals.

People are saying

"I took in the beautiful golf course view from our outdoor table."

"The tomato soup and grilled cheese are delicious comfort food."

"The bar staff here are so attentive and full of energy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner service to avoid long wait times.

2

The average meal cost is around $30 per person, excluding drinks.

3

The restaurant offers a scenic patio for outdoor dining with ocean views.

08
Eddie V's Prime Seafood image 1
Seafood restaurant

Panoramic ocean views define the setting, especially from the outdoor patio with heated lamps and a fire pit for warmth. The atmosphere stays elegant and quiet, welcoming guests with attentive service and thoughtful touches like table decorations and complimentary champagne. The place draws those seeking a refined dining experience paired with stunning scenery.

Rooftop views from the bar stand out as a major highlight. Staff like Emily B. and Eric provide attentive service with genuine care. Cocktails are excellent and seating is often available, even during happy hour.

Lunch features a lobster roll and burger on special with bread and butter served beforehand. The main dining area closes at lunch but the spot still offers solid small bites.

People are saying

"The ocean view here is spectacular and to die for."

"The bar service and handcrafted cocktails here are amazing."

"The lobster tacos here are a must-try lunch spot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are essential as the restaurant is often fully booked.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm daily with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Valet parking is recommended due to limited street parking availability.

09
BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse image 1

Spacious restaurant with indoor and outdoor patio seating, including heated porch that welcomes dogs. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting with a mix of sports screens adding energy. Offers a variety of house-brewed beers and a lively bar scene.

Dela at the bar offers fantastic service. Plenty of TVs create a casual vibe without the loud, crowded sports bar feel.

Lunch options include an Italian Chicken Parmigiana Pasta Lunch priced at $13 as part of a meal deal. Staff provide great suggestions and offer a lunch specials menu to enhance the experience.

People are saying

"The service at these dinner spots is attentive and kind."

"The bar staff are always super friendly and attentive."

"My Lunch Spot server Darin was wonderfully attentive and made the experience lovely."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7pm daily with discounted appetizers and drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended for larger groups, especially during peak hours.

3

The restaurant has limited handicap parking available in front.

10
Jose's CourtRoom image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating offers ocean views with heaters and umbrellas for comfort. The atmosphere is lively and noisy with live guitar music and football highlights playing. Large, dog-friendly bar and fun, colorful vibe attract a diverse crowd.

Huge, dog-friendly bar offers a great view and serves biggest quesadillas around. Walk-up style adds casual vibe to this Mexican bar and restaurant.

Lunch here offers immediate seating on the patio with a beautiful ocean view from up the hill. The 3-6 PM happy hour works well for a late lunch or early dinner.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and perfectly cooked."

"The quesadillas at this bar are huge and delicious."

"I loved watching the world go by from this lunch spot's patio."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 PM with discounted drinks and snacks.

2

Discounted tacos are available until 7:00 PM.

3

A surcharge fee applies when paying with a credit card.

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La Jolla, San Diego

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