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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in La Jolla

Scenic views and lunch spots

A midday break where the horizon is the main course.

Based on 739 Opinions
+736
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Updated May 2026
01
Beeside Balcony La Jolla image 1
Beeside Balcony La Jolla image 2
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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.

Views include a magnificent sea view and a stunning ocean outlook. Seating above Prospect offers a pleasing view paired with modern decor.

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."

"The ocean views from the balcony were beautiful and 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.

02
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.

Beautiful ocean views shine from both indoor and semi-outdoor seating areas. Tables overlook the water and Main Street, creating a relaxing atmosphere right next to the beach.

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

People are saying

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

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

"The scenic views of the water were amazing."

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.

03
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.

Outdoor tables offer views of the golf course and the setting sun. The view of the first tee with a glassy ocean in the background stands out.

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 golf course views here are amazing and gorgeous."

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.

04
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.

Stunning ocean views meet a lush golf course backdrop. The pool area offers a peaceful spot to enjoy these sights with attentive service nearby.

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

People are saying

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

"The staff's warm welcome made me feel appreciated."

"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.

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.

Stunning cliffside views overlook the beach and ocean below. Watching hang gliders and cliff jumpers adds action to the beautiful scenery.

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."

"The views here are spectacular and awesome."

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
Torrey Pines Golf Course image 1
Public golf course

Golf course stretches along the coast with stunning ocean views and dramatic elevation changes. Atmosphere balances beautiful, forgiving landscapes with challenges for skilled players. Paragliders often add a unique visual element above the course.

Spectacular Pacific Ocean views dominate the golf course, offering a stunning backdrop throughout. The layout includes a fun back nine with elevation changes that enhance the scenic vistas.

Lunch here feels lively with a steady flow of guests. The manager can accommodate early seating requests, and the spot offers a mix of lunch and drinks in a relaxed setting.

People are saying

"The ocean views here are absolutely stunning and breathtaking."

"The ocean views here are stunning and worth the trip."

"The wraps and cocktails here are a must try."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at least 90 days in advance to secure a tee time.

2

Non-residents pay $117 for a round of golf, plus $65 for a cart.

3

Tee times are scheduled every 10 minutes, so arrive early.

07
The Bella Lounge image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Outdoor seating combines couches and tables with views of gliders over cliffs, creating a chill beach vibe. Music includes a jazz band alongside hypnotic, unsettling sounds. The space accommodates large groups with privacy and offers beautifully arranged food and drinks.

Ocean views stand out here, especially during sunset. The spot offers a chill beach feel that complements the scenery well.

Wonderful displays for lunch appear on the terrace, creating a pleasant setting. The lounge hosts events and caters, making it a solid spot for a midday meal.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and tasty."

"The ocean views here are amazing, especially at sunset."

"The food and service at this lunch spot are excellent."

Good to know

1

The Bella Lounge offers catering services for receptions and events.

2

The Bella Lounge has ample seating for large groups.

3

The Bella Lounge can accommodate parties of 25 on short notice.

08
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.

Sunset views stand out with ocean vistas from the top floor. The spot offers amazing sunset views that you can't beat.

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."

"The view here is amazing, especially the sea and sky."

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

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.

09
The Kitchen @mcasd image 1

Outdoor dining offers spectacular ocean views and a relaxing atmosphere with light background music and ocean breezes. Seating is comfortable and spacious, featuring big umbrellas and blankets for warmth. The vibe suits quiet conversations and romantic evenings, enhanced by breathtaking sunsets.

Spectacular ocean views create a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. The setting overlooks the Pacific Ocean, offering an unbeatable backdrop that enhances any meal.

Friendly greetings set a welcoming tone for lunch. The spot offers a relaxing setting ideal for a satisfying meal after viewing contemporary art.

People are saying

"I found the view here to be incredible."

"The ocean views here are incredible."

"The lunch spot has spectacular ocean views."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for themed dinners.

2

Breakfast is available all day on weekends.

3

The seasonal menu features healthy and vegetarian options.

10
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.

Offers one of the most special panoramic views in the world. The setting combines amazing food with an excellent vantage point for a memorable dining experience.

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 ocean views here are spectacular and truly to die for."

"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.

11
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.

Outdoor seating offers a lovely ocean view and great spots for sunset watching. The patio and dog-friendly bar provide excellent people watching opportunities.

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."

"I loved the great ocean views from the patio."

"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.

12
Taste of the Himalayas image 1
Indian restaurant

Small, family-owned restaurant offers ocean-facing views with colorful Himalayan-themed decor. Atmosphere feels cozy and casual, suitable for relaxed meals or date nights. Outdoor seating includes heaters for comfort, enhancing the peaceful vibe.

Ocean-facing views create a serene and scenic backdrop for meals. Outdoor seating offers lovely views without heat discomfort, enhancing the dining experience.

Lunch offers a special combo with soup, a veggie curry, a protein curry, and two sides for $14. Regular dishes cost more but match typical pricing.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be authentic and flavorful, just like back home."

"The food here is authentic, just like momos back home."

"The chicken Kora at this Lunch Spot is delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a view of La Jolla.

2

There is ample parking nearby.

3

The restaurant is Halal, which is amazing in La Jolla.

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La Jolla, San Diego

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