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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in La Jolla

Lunch and dinner spots

Made for those who prefer to return to the same reliable establishments regardless of the time of day.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
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Updated April 2026
01
Taco Time Cantina image 1
Taco Time Cantina image 2
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Bright colors and beautiful decor create an inviting space with both indoor and outdoor seating, including a cozy patio with heaters and cover. Atmosphere feels authentic and relaxing, suitable for casual dining with fresh air and friendly energy. A standout feature is the fantastic salsa bar offering a range of heat levels.

Lunch includes custom orders like the fish burrito not listed on the menu. California burritos appear as a popular choice for midday meals.

Dinner comes with a show in a cozy setting. The food stands out enough to inspire a return visit for California burritos at lunch.

People are saying

"The salsa bar is fantastic, with so many tasty options."

"This lunch spot's tacos are amazing, especially the crunchy beef."

"The meat at these dinner spots is so flavorful and tender."

Good to know

1

Taco Time Cantina offers unique taco options not available anywhere else.

2

The chef makes everything daily from scratch with over 20 years of experience.

3

Expect a 2% credit card surcharge not listed on the menu.

02
TAKARAMONO SUSHI image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi restaurant with authentic atmosphere and subtle Japanese decor creates a quiet, intimate vibe. Space feels comfortable and unpretentious, with an open front allowing fresh air inside. Fish quality stands out as exceptionally fresh and high-grade.

Lunch hours stay calm with no crowd. Offers lunch options suitable for a quick meal.

Dinner offers incredible quality and amazing flavors. Walk-ins get seated just before the dinner rush without reservations.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is incredibly fresh."

"This Lunch Spot's nigiri is so fresh, it melts in your mouth."

"I had an amazing dinner; everything was delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, due to limited seating.

2

Omakase is available Monday through Thursday with 24 hours advance reservations.

3

Parking is available nearby, but can be limited during peak hours.

03
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.

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

Dinner here features over the top food and attentive staff. The spot is dog friendly, welcoming companions to join the meal.

People are saying

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

"The ocean view from the balcony is breathtaking."

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

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.

04
Pamir Kabob House image 1
Afghan restaurant

Dining space blends Afghan cultural decor with floor seating and cloth tablecloths, creating a warm, homely atmosphere. Slow Afghan instrumental music plays softly, enhancing the family-friendly, inviting vibe. The setting suits both casual family meals and romantic dinners.

Lunch specials feature chicken kabob and kachaloo chalow with chicken. Meals come with flavorful, delicious dishes suitable for casual or work lunches.

Dinner here offers a family-friendly atmosphere and suits both romantic dinners and group celebrations. Meals create memorable moments for families and work events alike.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, flavorful, and freshly made."

"The food here is spectacular; I loved the lamb with cherries."

"The lamb dishes here are so well prepared."

Good to know

1

Parking is generally available on Pearl Street.

2

If parking on Pearl Street is not available, side street parking is an option.

3

The restaurant is family-friendly.

05
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.

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

Offers both indoor and outdoor seating suitable for dinner or drinks. Serves as a solid spot for a casual anniversary or friendly dinner. Handles groups well for inviting people out.

People are saying

"I loved their amazing craft beer selection."

"This is a must-try spot for dinner with solid pizza and burgers."

"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.

06
Chin's Szechwan - La Jolla image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small space with about six booths inside and a few tables outside creates an intimate, cozy atmosphere. Warm lighting and tasteful decor blend traditional Chinese elements with modern style, making it a quiet, vibey spot. Popular and often busy, it draws diners who appreciate consistent quality and generous portions.

Lunch offers excellent portion sizes and affordable prices compared to dinner. The Kung Pao Scallops lunch includes soup and appetizers with attentive and helpful staff.

Dinner features attentive service that makes meals feel special. The food is delicious, but the menu is pricier than lunch and sometimes orders miss the included rice side.

People are saying

"I found Chin's Szechwan to be a great Chinese food spot."

"I found the Lo Mein here to be authentic and flavorful."

"The Kung Pao Scallops lunch here was excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted due to the small size of the restaurant.

2

Expect to wait for a table during busy dinner hours, especially on weekends.

3

Lunch prices are lower than dinner prices, providing a more affordable option.

07
Aroi Thai On Prospect image 1
Thai restaurant

Restaurant offers ocean and beach views with semi-outdoor patio seating that creates a cozy and warm atmosphere. The vibe is laid-back and pet-friendly, attracting those who enjoy relaxing meals with scenic surroundings.

Lunch offers delicious Thai food with quick seating. The spot suits a casual midday meal.

Dinner here feels relaxed with warm, attentive staff and no long waits. The menu offers moderately priced Thai dishes like spicy drunken noodles, making it a solid choice for a casual evening.

People are saying

"The Thai food here is so flavorful and authentic."

"This lunch spot's duck noodles and summer rolls are recommended."

"The yellow curry at this dinner spot is perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all week long with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Street parking is available, but can be hard to find.

3

Reservations are not required, and seating is often available immediately for lunch.

08
The Lodge at Torrey Pines image 1

Resort hotel showcases breathtaking ocean and golf course views with iconic architecture and luxurious, spacious rooms featuring fireplaces. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, ideal for relaxation with amenities like a pool overlooking the ocean, spa, and outdoor dining. Guests often enjoy golf, family-friendly pool areas, and attentive service that enhances the restful vibe.

Lunch features excellent fish dishes and spectacular food overall. Service is consistently excellent, making it suitable for business lunches.

Dinner includes after-dinner port wine shared by the server. The concierge assists with reservations at top local spots. Events like rehearsal dinners can be arranged on the Croquet Lawn.

People are saying

"The hotel staff makes you feel genuinely special and appreciated."

"The food here is incredible, especially the duck."

"The lunch spot staff are so accommodating and friendly."

Good to know

1

The resort charges $550 per night, plus a $50 resort fee and a $50 self-parking fee.

2

The hotel is next to a public golf course that uses a PA system to call tee times starting at 5am.

3

AR Valentien closed on October 14 for renovations.

09
El Pescador Fish Market image 1

Fish market and restaurant combine with fresh seafood display behind a glass counter. Outdoor patio lined with cacti offers a relaxed coastal vibe and spacious seating options. The atmosphere feels buzzy and inviting, drawing people who appreciate fresh fish and casual dining.

Fresh seafood stands out for a quick lunch here. The spot serves simple, fast meals focused on quality fish.

Dinner offers light, delicately flavored seafood in a relaxed setting. The spot gets packed during dinner hours and serves affordable meals suitable for families.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The seafood here is so tasty and fresh."

"The swordfish sandwich at this Lunch Spot is excellent."

Good to know

1

El Pescador Fish Market operates on a first come, first serve basis; no reservations accepted.

2

Expect long lines on Saturday afternoons, especially during peak hours.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early to secure a spot.

10
The Spot La Jolla image 1

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.

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

Offers comfort food and options for late-night dinner. Serves well for both dinner and drinks in a casual setting.

People are saying

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

"The lamb burger and fish and chips here are delicious."

"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.

11
Osteria Romantica image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy Italian restaurant with authentic vibe and beautiful patio featuring sunset views and outdoor heaters. Atmosphere feels like a charming small Italian town, warm and inviting with peaceful street closure. Tables sit close together, creating an intimate but tight setting.

Lunch happens in a calm setting with few crowds between meal times. Outdoor seating offers a beachside vibe that suits groups well. The overall experience stays pleasant and relaxed.

Dinner offers a superb experience with kind service that welcomes families, including infants. The setting suits special occasions like anniversary celebrations.

People are saying

"The fresh, flavorful Italian food, especially the pasta, is amazing."

"The food here is delicious and tastes like authentic Italian cuisine."

"I loved the fresh pasta dishes and the chocolate bread pudding for dinner."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and walk-ins are usually accommodated.

2

The restaurant is kid-friendly and offers a variety of options for children.

3

Prices are considered affordable for the quality of food and service.

12
Spiro's Mediterranean Cuisine image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Outdoor patio under a row of trees offers comfortable seating with fireplace warmth and dog-friendly space. Atmosphere stays welcoming and relaxed, with bossa nova music enhancing the vibe. Seating adapts for mobility needs, blending accessibility with a pleasant, peaceful setting.

Lunch offers Mediterranean cuisine with options like a lamb and chicken platter priced around $37 including beverage and tip. Dining by the beach creates a relaxed atmosphere for meals.

Dinners feature Filet Mignon kabobs served in generous portions. Meals offer a relaxing atmosphere with consistently tasty Mediterranean flavors.

People are saying

"The lamb was so tender and juicy, I was impressed."

"This lunch spot's lamb gyro is so tender and juicy."

"You won't believe how huge the dinner portions are here."

Good to know

1

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

2

The restaurant is dog-friendly, allowing pets on the patio.

3

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

13
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.

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.

Prime rib dinner stands out as a solid choice. Servers like Darin and Jonathan bring a friendly, helpful vibe that makes dinners enjoyable and smooth.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the Pizookie for American Food; it's a warm cookie with ice cream."

"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.

14
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.

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.

Dinner here fits well with social plans like parties or movie nights. The 3-6 PM happy hour offers a late lunch or early dinner option, and the spot works for groups and casual meals after activities like swimming.

People are saying

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

"The nachos here are amazing and loaded with steak for dinner."

"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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