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Salad spots in La Jolla

A salad that is a substantial meal in its own right instead of a bowl of wilted greens.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Ridgewalk Social image 1
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Patio offers a great setting with a stylish, relaxed vibe perfect for casual outings. Menu shines with creative dishes like standout wings and homemade chili, plus veggie options. Salads, including chicken Caesar Brussels, pair well with burgers for a tasty meal.

Salads feature chicken Caesar Brussels and pair well with burgers. Burritos and salads both offer delicious options.

People are saying

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

"I thought the burgers here were amazing."

"The salads here are delicious and made with love."

Good to know

1

The menu offers creative dishes and tasty drinks.

2

They offer vegetarian options.

3

Prices are reasonable for students.

02
Bistro Pazzo image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian spot offers cozy atmosphere and dog-friendly patio for peaceful dining. Salads shine with fresh ingredients, like lemony Caesar and salmon spinach. Pasta dishes are top-notch, perfect for romantic or family meals.

Salads feature fresh ingredients with options like a lemony Caesar and a spinach salad paired with salmon. The pazzo salad stands out alongside other dishes like meatballs.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here are amazing and delicious."

"The Italian food here, especially the lasagna, is the best I've ever had."

"The pazzo salad was delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Dinner service starts from 4 pm.

2

Bistro Pazzo accommodates large parties, including groups of 11.

3

The restaurant is kid-friendly, making it suitable for families.

03
The Whaling Bar image 1
Restaurant

Vintage decor and historic elements create a warm, nostalgic vibe perfect for romantic dinners and casual drinks. Salads like the Caesar with giant crispy croutons and fresh Celery Salad add unique flavors. Cocktails and food receive high praise, enhancing the top-tier atmosphere.

Caesar salad stands out with giant crispy croutons that are creamy inside, creating a unique texture. Celery Salad offers a fresh twist, and the Urfa Chicken adds a flavorful, distinctive touch.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is so welcoming and kind."

"The cocktails here are inventive, fun, and perfectly balanced."

"You have to try the Caesar salad; it's the best I've ever had."

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.

04
Namino (Tahchin) image 1
Persian restaurant

Food truck offers a casual atmosphere with friendly energy and simple seating. Salad greens are fresh and crisp, paired with a bright savory sauce. Shirazi salad adds a flavorful touch to kebobs and rice combos.

Salad greens come fresh and crisp with a bright and savory sauce that stays balanced. The Shirazi salad adds a flavorful, satisfying touch to meals like kebobs and rice combos.

People are saying

"The Persian food here is excellent, especially the kabobs."

"I found this place to be a delicious surprise, a true hidden gem."

"The salad here is fresh, flavorful, and masterfully seasoned."

Good to know

1

Everything is halal.

2

Combo meals cost under $20, cheaper than competitors.

3

Portions are generous for the price.

05
Honey Cafe & Store image 1

Cozy cafe offers boho decor and pet-friendly seating for a relaxed vibe. Salads feature fresh chickpeas and strawberries, perfect with paninis and smoothies. Occasional live music adds a lively touch to the calm, home-like atmosphere.

Salads here stand out for their freshness and flavorful ingredients like chickpeas and strawberries. Options include a variety of wholesome, healthy choices that pair well with paninis and smoothies.

People are saying

"The peanut latte at this cafe is unique and flavorful."

"Their Turkish breakfast is magnificent, packed with fresh, authentic flavors."

"You have to try the chickpea salad; it's so delicious."

Good to know

1

Honey Cafe is pet-friendly, allowing customers to bring their furry friends.

2

They offer a great variety of healthy options, including smoothie bowls and avocado toast.

3

The cafe is suitable for both quick bites and leisurely breakfasts.

06
The Kitchen @mcasd image 1

Outdoor dining offers spectacular ocean views and a relaxing vibe with light music and ocean breezes. Salads feature fresh ingredients like beets and come with delicate steak skewers or smoked salmon. Seating is spacious with big umbrellas and blankets, perfect for quiet talks or romantic evenings.

Salads come with delicate steak skewers and fresh ingredients like beets. Options include a harvest bowl and salads paired with roasted chicken or smoked salmon.

People are saying

"I found the view here to be incredible."

"The dinner spots here are creative, beautiful, and delicious."

"The salads here have an incredible view and great ambiance."

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.

07
Aroi Thai On Prospect image 1
Thai restaurant

Enjoy ocean views and a pet-friendly vibe on a cozy patio. Salads pack bold spice and hearty meat, with papaya salad offering a sweet-salty balance and tiger steak salad delivering intense heat. Perfect for relaxed meals by the beach.

Salads feature bold spice levels and generous meat portions. The papaya salad balances salty and sweet flavors with mild heat, while the tiger steak salad pushes the spice to a very spicy level.

People are saying

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

"The curry here is rich, creamy, and full of flavor."

"The papaya salad tasted like it was made in Bangkok."

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
Marketplace Grille image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean spot shines with alfresco dining and a quiet patio perfect for relaxed meals. Fresh, crisp Shirazi salad pairs well with tender kabobs, making it ideal for healthy, quick lunches or dinners.

Freshness stands out with cucumber and tomato salads and Shirazi salad offering crisp, vibrant flavors. Salads often come paired with grilled meats like chicken and steak, adding hearty, savory notes.

People are saying

"I loved the fresh and flavorful salads, especially the cucumber/tomato."

"I loved the flavorful chicken and steak skewers at this Lunch Spot."

"I loved the nice outdoor seating and beautiful day."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 15-30 minutes during lunch and dinner rushes.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and healthy options.

3

Takeout orders are available, and they provide complimentary chicken soup while you wait.

09
Dora Ristorante image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian spot shines with an open-style kitchen and a heated outdoor patio for cozy dining. Salads like octopus and squash offer bold flavors, while fennel with persimmons is perfectly dressed. Vibe stays upbeat and classy, blending comfort with style.

Octopus and squash stand out as unforgettable salad choices. Fennel pairs well with persimmons and comes perfectly dressed and presented.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and thoughtfully curated."

"Our server Cole made the Italian food experience even better."

"The squash salad was unforgettable, perfectly dressed and presented."

Good to know

1

Parking is available inside the Theatre District Parking Structure near the La Jolla Playhouse.

2

Parking rates are $4.50 per hour with a maximum of $36.

3

Expect a 30% upcharge for additional portions without prior disclosure.

10
El Pescador Fish Market image 1

Fresh seafood shines in salads with grilled octopus and fish you pick yourself. Casual dining meets a buzzy atmosphere with a coastal vibe on an outdoor patio lined with cacti. Enjoy high-quality ingredients paired with chowder and sandwiches.

Salads feature fresh seafood like grilled octopus and fish you can choose yourself. They come with high-quality ingredients and pair well with other dishes like chowder and sandwiches.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"I thought the clam chowder was the best I ever had."

"I found the salad fresh and appealing with halibut and avocado."

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.

11
Valley Farm Market La Jolla image 1

Market blends local butcher shop charm with fresh, organic produce and a lively community vibe. Salads feature roasted vegetables and fresh pasta options ideal for next-day meals. Specialty items like hats and healing apothecaries add unique flair to the experience.

Cold pasta salad works well for next-day lunch. Tuna salad tastes good but watch out for corn. Salads come fresh with roasted vegetables and pre-prepared options that sometimes include stickers to remove.

People are saying

"This grocery store has a great variety of high-quality meats."

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

"The salads here have fresh fruits, vegetables, and quality butcher cuts."

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.

12
Pamir Kabob House image 1
Afghan restaurant

Dining space offers a warm, homely atmosphere with Afghan decor and floor seating. Salad features fresh onions in classic Afghani style. Shrimp and beef kabobs come with green salad and generous rice, perfect for family or romantic meals.

Fresh onions stand out in the salad, which is a typical Afghani style. Shrimp and beef kabobs come with a green salad and generous rice portions.

People are saying

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

"The desserts here are light, fluffy, and absolutely delicious."

"I thought the salad was freshly made and tasty."

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.

13
Girard Gourmet image 1

Small bakery offers a homey vibe with fresh salads like curry chicken and pear cambazola. Quiches and sandwiches match the high quality. Seating is limited but cozy, perfect for a family-friendly meal.

Salads here come in varied styles like curry chicken and pear cambazola, both standing out. They arrive fresh and beautifully prepared, matching the quality of quiches and sandwiches served alongside.

People are saying

"I loved the freshly made salads and sandwiches at this lunch spot."

"I loved the creative, seasonal specialty cookies."

"The salads here are fresh, delicious, and made with homemade dressings."

Good to know

1

Girard Gourmet is open from 7 AM to 6 PM every day.

2

Expect a line during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Street parking can be tricky; plan accordingly.

14
NAMINO Persian Cuisine (Restaurant) image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean spot serves authentic Persian kebabs with juicy grilling and comforting dishes like Ghormeh Sabzi. Fresh, crunchy salad balances the meal perfectly. Cozy, busy vibe feels like a friendly neighborhood joint focused on food quality.

Fresh crunch adds balance to the meal. Salad complements the soltani kebab and fragrant rice well.

People are saying

"The Persian kabobs are seasoned and grilled to juicy perfection."

"I found the authentic Persian food here to be rich and aromatic."

"The rice and salad were delicious and fragrant."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20-30 minute wait for food preparation as everything is made fresh.

2

Kobeideh kebab skewers cost over $45 for a filling meal including tip and tax.

3

The restaurant is busy with most tables occupied and many to-go orders.

15
TAKARAMONO SUSHI image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot shines with exceptionally fresh fish and a quiet, intimate vibe. Kyuri Tataki and salmon oshi salads add a refreshing, savory touch. Subtle Japanese decor keeps the space comfortable and unpretentious.

Kyuri Tataki offers a simple but delicious cucumber salad. Salmon oshi and cucumber salad bring a refreshing and savory touch to the menu.

People are saying

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

"The nigiri here has an ideal rice-to-fish ratio."

"The sushi here is fantastic, with exceptionally fresh fish."

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.

16
Beeside Balcony La Jolla image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Open-air Mediterranean spot boasts breathtaking ocean views and a lively vibe with live music. Beet salads shine with fresh arugula, while Caesar salad features perfectly cooked salmon for a rich taste.

Beet salads stand out with fresh arugula and vibrant flavors. Caesar salad comes with perfectly cooked salmon. Bacon and cheese add a rich touch to the greens.

People are saying

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

"The ocean view from the balcony is breathtaking."

"I wish I had the salad dressing on the side."

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.

17
BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse image 1

Spacious spot offers heated patio where dogs are welcome, blending warmth with lively sports energy. Fresh, crisp salads like Steak Wedge shine alongside a variety of house-brewed beers. Bar scene buzzes with friendly vibes and great drinks.

Salads come in fresh and crisp varieties with big portions served cold. Options like the Steak Wedge and mozzarella salads stand out for their flavor.

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."

"Jeremy was an amazing server who made us giggle."

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.

18
Continent Delicatessen image 1

Deli serves authentic Russian food with a Soviet atmosphere and unique Eastern European products. Mushroom salad is a standout, perfect with chips or pita, while carrot salad offers a fresh, simple choice. Prices are higher, and seating is limited with brusque service.

Mushroom salad pairs well with chips, pita, and bread. Carrot salad offers a fresh, simple option.

People are saying

"I found so many hard-to-find European treats at this deli."

"I found the rye bread to be excellent, baked in-house."

"I found so many hard-to-find international deli treats here."

Good to know

1

Prepared foods may pose health risks; check freshness before purchasing.

2

Parking costs $3 for 10 minutes, and the lot can get full.

3

Prices for deli meats and similar products are higher compared to local grocery stores.

19
Zoya image 1
Restaurant

Open space with extraordinary decor and a warm family vibe invites guests. Salads feature a lemon and toasted cumin dressing that refreshes and pairs well with grilled meats. Indoor and outdoor seating plus a full bar create an upscale energy perfect for authentic Mediterranean flavors.

Salads come with a refreshing mix and a dressing that blends lemon and toasted cumin for real flavor. They pair well with grilled meats and dips, adding a crisp, fresh element to the meal.

People are saying

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

"I tasted the best hummus I've ever had."

"I found the salads here to be super fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day with $5 beer options.

2

Outdoor seating is available for guests with dogs.

3

The menu offers a variety of Mediterranean dishes.

20
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.

People are saying

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

"The steak here felt like a fine dining experience, every moment."

"The fish here is fresh and cooked to perfection."

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.

21
The Kebab Shop image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Spacious Mediterranean spot offers a self-serve sauce bar and halal choices for diverse diets. Salads are fresh and crisp, with a standout chickpea salad that pairs well with chicken kebabs. Casual, comfortable vibe suits families and groups.

Salads come fresh and crispy with options like a chickpea salad that stands out. Staff help pick the most delicious salad to pair with dishes like chicken breast kebabs.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and the portions are super big."

"The Greek food here, especially the falafel and hummus, is so tasty."

"I got a fresh and crispy salad with my meal."

Good to know

1

Kids eat free on the weekends.

2

The restaurant offers halal options.

3

The place is very clean and well maintained.

22
Osteria Romantica image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy Italian spot offers a charming vibe with a beautiful patio and sunset views. Salads shine with fresh beet and fig options, served in generous portions. Intimate seating adds to the warm, inviting atmosphere.

Salads feature fresh beet options and a variety of choices including a notable fig salad. Portions are generous and sometimes split without extra charge.

People are saying

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

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

"The beet salad was super fresh and perfect."

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.

23
Spiro's Mediterranean Cuisine image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Outdoor patio under trees offers fireplace warmth and a dog-friendly space with bossa nova music setting a relaxed vibe. Salads feature fresh veggies and pair well with sides like tzatziki and hummus. Seating adapts for mobility needs in a peaceful setting.

Salads come with fresh veggies and pair well with sides like tzatziki and hummus. They arrive in quality containers and complement dishes like lamb steak and pilaf.

People are saying

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

"The Greek food here, especially the gyro, is packed with delicious, crispy meat."

"I loved the delicious salad with fresh ingredients."

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.

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La Jolla, San Diego

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