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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to La Jolla

Expensive food

A high-end meal where the food matches the cost instead of just paying for the atmosphere.

Based on 555 Opinions
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01
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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.

Mexican food here stands out for its freshness and high quality. Dishes offer delicious flavors that work well for both dine-in and takeout.

People are saying

"This food is delicious, packed with flavor and always fresh."

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
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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.

Food features delicious flavors and great quality. Service includes seating and serving even during late hours.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and hot."

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.

03
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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.

Food arrives promptly with a calm, relaxed pacing. Quality is consistently superb and the overall experience feels incredible.

People are saying

"The sushi here is incredible, especially the fatty tuna nigiri."

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.

04
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Market combines local butcher shop feel with a full kitchen and organic fresh products. Atmosphere reflects a community vibe with booths offering unique items like hats and healing apothecaries. Offers high-quality meats and specialty produce, attracting those seeking premium food options.

Fresh foods and fine meats stand out here. The market offers a solid selection of pre-made foods and alcohol, all of high quality.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and high-quality."

Good to know

1

The market offers a good selection of organic fruits and vegetables.

2

Expect a variety of specialty produce, dry goods, and high-quality meats.

3

Parking is really, really rough.

05
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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.

Food features beautifully prepared Mediterranean dishes with excellent flavors and delightful presentation. The menu offers a charming mix of options that consistently satisfy.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

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.

06
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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.

Chinese Szechwan food here is consistently good with generous portions and attentive service that checks in and boxes up leftovers.

People are saying

"I found the Chinese food here to be really good."

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
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Vintage decor blends with modern touches to create a warm ambiance that suits romantic dinners and casual drinks. The space features carefully preserved historic elements alongside flawless design, offering a nostalgic yet fresh vibe. Cocktails and food receive high praise, enhancing the top-tier atmosphere.

Food offers a flavorful and explorative experience with several small options to try. Cocktails complement the dishes well, creating a special dining atmosphere with a SoCal vibe.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and surprisingly high quality."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-5 p.m. with limited menu options.

2

Valet parking is available at the connected hotel.

3

The kitchen closes at 10 p.m., not 11 p.m.

08
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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.

Food offers great value with a focus on comfort dishes like vegan burger, battered fish, and halibut. Quality consistently surpasses expectations and suits late-night dining.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was great and reliable."

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.

09
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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 fish and other seafood dishes stand out with their freshness and delicious flavors. Seating and catering options make it convenient for dining in or ordering out.

People are saying

"The food here is unbelievably fresh and delicious."

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
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Low-rise buildings surround lush gardens with a huge koi pond and walking paths, creating a tropical environment. The atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful despite proximity to a busy freeway. Amenities include a nice pool and hot tub, with rooms offering comfortable beds and garden views.

Club lounge offers daily food and snacks with pleasant service. Room service delivers hot, delicious meals quickly. The bar and restaurant serve good food alongside a contemporary setting.

People are saying

"The food at the bar is awesome, especially the Ahi Tacos."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $27 per day, regardless of hotel stay.

2

Karaoke happens on Saturday nights at the main restaurant.

3

The hotel is conveniently located near shopping and dining options.

11
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Open, airy space blends mid-century Americana with surf culture in an artsy, boutique setting. The vibe stays relaxed and welcoming, attracting a local crowd who enjoy stylish clothing and unique surfboards. A cafรฉ area offers fresh acai bowls and drinks, creating a versatile hangout spot with a chill atmosphere.

Food tastes really good with fresh flavors. Some orders need careful checking because modifications often get missed, especially for food intolerances.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was really good."

Good to know

1

If someone has a notable food intolerance, they should double check their order upon receipt.

2

The shop offers drinks and acai bowls.

3

I visited around noon on a weekday and there was no wait.

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La Jolla, San Diego

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