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Best American Restaurants in La Jolla

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86 restaurants available nearby

A photo of NINE-TEN restaurant
1. NINE-TEN
4.7
Exceptional(2934)
Price: Expensive
• American • La Jolla
Booked 17 times today
Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of La Jolla, San Diego, NINE-TEN stands out as a beacon of farm-to-table excellence. Under the helm of nationally-recognized chef Jason Knibb, the restaurant has earned a MICHELIN distinction for its commitment to locally-sourced, seasonally-inspired cuisine. Diners rave about the exceptional quality of dishes such as the "best duck breast I’ve ever had" and praise the innovative "Mercy of the Chef" tasting menu. With ingredients carefully selected daily from local artisans, NINE-TEN not only promises but delivers a dining experience that is both authentic and sublime. Whether you're enjoying a meal on their cozy terrace with ocean views or indulging in the warmth of their elegant indoor setting, NINE-TEN is a true gem in farm-to-table dining.
A photo of Mediterranean Room - La Valencia Hotel restaurant
2. Mediterranean Room - La Valencia Hotel
4.4
Awesome(1711)
Price: Expensive
• American • La Jolla
Booked 27 times today
Nestled in the picturesque La Jolla neighborhood, the Mediterranean Room at La Valencia Hotel offers a spectacular dining experience that truly embodies the essence of American cuisine with a unique coastal twist. Celebrated for its ocean views and locally-sourced ingredients, this restaurant provides a menu that is both innovative and comfortingly familiar. Guests rave about dishes like the "Wagu burger to die for" and the "best tomato bisque I’ve ever tasted." Whether it’s the delectable brunch offerings or the exquisite dinner plates, every meal is crafted to perfection. As one guest put it, "The food, the staff, the view - all incredible!" making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the best of American dining in San Diego.
A photo of Brockton Villa restaurant
3. Brockton Villa
4.6
Exceptional(2779)
Price: Moderate
• American • La Jolla
Booked 20 times today
Brockton Villa, nestled in the picturesque La Jolla, San Diego, offers an unmatched American dining experience. Renowned for its iconic "Coast Toast," which has been dubbed "the best French toast ever," this historic seaside home turned restaurant captures the essence of American cuisine with a creative twist. Patrons rave about the quality of the food and the authenticity of dishes like breakfast tacos and seafood linguine, complemented by breathtaking ocean views. One diner praised, "The food and service were absolutely amazing!!! Incredible views as well!" Brockton Villa isn't just about food; it's about creating unforgettable experiences, whether it's a casual brunch or a special celebration. This gem truly stands out with its combination of culinary excellence and stunning location.
A photo of Aldea La Jolla restaurant
4. Aldea La Jolla
4.6
Exceptional(54)
Price: Expensive
• American • La Jolla
Booked 4 times today
Aldea La Jolla, nestled in the vibrant heart of La Jolla Village, is a Steakhouse that captures the essence of high-quality, Baja Coastal-inspired cuisine. With its "HUGE and delicious" ribeye, as one enthusiastic diner described, Aldea stands out not only for its inviting atmosphere but also for the exceptional quality of its steaks. Reviewers consistently rave about their dining experiences, highlighting the "fantastic" steak and "absolutely delicious" food that exceeds expectations. The commitment to using fresh, authentic ingredients shines through in every dish, making Aldea a must-visit for anyone seeking a memorable Steakhouse experience in La Jolla.
A photo of Bernini's Bistro & Bar restaurant
5. Bernini's Bistro & Bar
4.7
Exceptional(590)
Price: Moderate
• American • La Jolla
Booked 21 times today
Bernini's Bistro & Bar in La Jolla, San Diego, is a treasure trove of Contemporary American cuisine, delighting locals and visitors alike for over 24 years. Known for its "incredible" Lasagna and wood-fired pizzas, Bernini's offers a menu that is both diverse and bursting with flavor. Reviewers rave about the “delicious” and “well-prepared” meals, highlighting dishes like the blackened salmon and cioppino as must-tries. The restaurant's ambiance is consistently praised, creating the perfect backdrop for dining experiences that are as memorable as they are delicious. With "excellent service" and a "warm" atmosphere, Bernini's stands out as a top choice for those seeking authentic and high-quality Contemporary American fare in a charming neighborhood setting.
A photo of The Shores Restaurant - La Jolla Shores Hotel restaurant
6. The Shores Restaurant - La Jolla Shores Hotel
4.3
Awesome(2437)
Price: Moderate
• American • La Jolla
Booked 25 times today
At The Shores Restaurant in La Jolla, San Diego, diners are treated to an unparalleled seafood experience, boasting fresh catches and stunning ocean views. Esteemed for its unbeatable ambiance and quality, the restaurant's seafood offerings receive rave reviews, with one guest exclaiming, "The food was outstanding, the view was awesome, and the wait staff very courteous and knowledgeable." Executive Chef Michael Vaughn's creative flair shines in dishes like the "superb" AHI appetizer and the seasoned swordfish, celebrated for its high quality. With the Pacific Ocean as its backdrop, The Shores not only promises delicious seafood but also an unforgettable beachside dining experience, making it a must-visit for seafood lovers in La Jolla.
A photo of Paradisaea restaurant
7. Paradisaea
4.7
Exceptional(568)
Price: Very Expensive
• American • La Jolla
Booked 26 times today
Nestled in the historic Piano Building in the heart of La Jolla's vibrant Bird Rock community, Paradisaea epitomizes the essence of Californian cuisine with its commitment to quality, flavor, and local sourcing. Celebrated for its "crave-able, accessible fare executed at the highest level," this destination restaurant has become a local favorite, with diners praising its "amazing food and service" and the "extraordinary" chef's tasting menu. The ambiance, described as both "vibrant" and "soothing," complements the meticulously prepared dishes, from the fresh oysters to the flavorful steak au poivre, each "beautifully presented and delicious." Paradisaea's dedication to the Californian tradition of fresh, innovative dining is evident, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a truly remarkable meal in La Jolla.
A photo of The Fishery restaurant
8. The Fishery
4.7
Exceptional(3066)
Price: Expensive
• American • Pacific Beach
Booked 51 times today
Nestled just blocks from the ocean in North Pacific Beach, San Diego, The Fishery epitomizes exceptional Californian cuisine with its dedication to fresh, local ingredients. Celebrated for its coastal-inspired menu, the restaurant has earned accolades such as the Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence from 2018 to the present. Patrons consistently rave about the quality and creativity of the dishes. One diner exclaimed, "Best Seafood in San Diego. All the food items were well made, tasty and delicious." With its focus on seasonality and a superb wine list that complements the vibrant flavors of each dish, The Fishery offers an authentic taste of California's rich coastal bounty in a setting that's as welcoming as it is picturesque.
A photo of The Grill at The Lodge at Torrey Pines restaurant
9. The Grill at The Lodge at Torrey Pines
4.6
Exceptional(2350)
Price: Moderate
• American • La Jolla
Booked 50 times today
The Grill at The Lodge at Torrey Pines in La Jolla, San Diego, epitomizes the essence of farm-to-table cuisine with its commitment to locally sourced ingredients and wood-fired specialties. Nestled in a scenic resort, the restaurant offers a menu that celebrates the bounty of Southern California, with patrons raving about the "best hamburger I have ever had" and the freshness of dishes like the avocado toast. The inviting ambiance, complete with stunning views and cozy fire pits, enhances the dining experience, making each meal not just a feast for the palate but also a moment to cherish. Reviewers consistently praise the delicious, slow-cooked menu items and the attentive service, affirming The Grill's status as a top destination for authentic farm-to-table dining.
A photo of Slowly Restaurant & Lounge restaurant
10. Slowly Restaurant & Lounge
4.7
Exceptional(56)
Price: Expensive
• American • Pacific Beach
Booked 15 times today
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Pacific Beach, San Diego, Slowly Restaurant & Lounge offers an exceptional Mediterranean culinary experience that's as authentic as it is innovative. Patrons rave about the "amazing" in-house creations, from the perfectly fried branzino with crispy skin to the richly flavored broccolini paired with whipped feta and harissa sauce. Guests are consistently impressed by the fresh, high-quality ingredients and the creative twists on Mediterranean classics. The atmosphere is described as "chic yet warm," making it the perfect spot for both a casual meal and a sophisticated evening out. With glowing reviews highlighting both the food and the ambiance, Slowly stands out as a Mediterranean gem in San Diego's culinary scene.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • FrankVIP
    Portland / Oregon •26 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Everything about this meal exceeded expectations. Excellent and creative menu and super professional service. A great night out.
    More info
    NINE-TENPrice: Expensive• Californian• La Jolla
    •
    4.7
  • Chris
    San Francisco Bay Area •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Finally a FRESH SEAFOOD DOWN TO EARTH CLASSY Restaurant that provides the ultimate in freshness in every ingredient tasted this night. My wife and I frequent seafood restaurants all over the Pacific including Maui and other neighboring islands. Only one that came close is Merrimans' not Mama's. The Fishery is the Real Deal and Thanks to the wonderful mind and hard work of the Owner and its' hard workers and especially the Chef who have nailed this hard to please type of cuisine and preparation.... Thanks for making our trip memorable to SD and we will be back. The Wards from SF Bay Area.... Chris and Lauren
    More info
    The FisheryPrice: Expensive• Seafood• Pacific Beach
    •
    4.7
  • Patricia
    San Diego •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    I love the beautiful Christmas decorations La V has each year. The service was wonderful— real old-fashioned courtesy— and ambience was very nice, if a little noisy. Tablecloths would dampen the noise. My only issue is that La V has has the same lunch menu for ages. It’s time for a change.
    More info
    Mediterranean Room - La Valencia HotelPrice: Expensive• American• La Jolla
    •
    4.4
  • Swarna
    New York City •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    This is such a great location with stunning views of the coves at not breakneck prices
    More info
    Brockton VillaPrice: Moderate• Californian• La Jolla
    •
    4.6
  • Martha
    San Diego •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 7 Dec 2024
    The food and service was amazing. I celebrated my birthday with friends. The guava cheesecake was a nice touch to end our night!
    More info
    Aldea La JollaPrice: Expensive• Regional Mexican (Baja Med)• La Jolla
    •
    4.6

Discover best American restaurants in La Jolla

Discover the vibrant American dining scene in La Jolla, San Diego, where gastronomy meets scenic beauty. This neighborhood is renowned for its diverse array of American eateries that cater to every palette, from the beachside bistros offering fresh seafood delights to cozy inland grills specializing in hearty American classics. Each restaurant prides itself on using locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring a fresh and flavorful experience. The culinary expertise in La Jolla is evident, with several restaurants boasting award-winning chefs and innovative menus that highlight the best of American cuisine. Whether you're in the mood for a sophisticated dinner with ocean views or a casual meal in a lively atmosphere, La Jolla's American dining options are sure to impress. With a focus on quality, creativity, and local flavors, La Jolla is a prime destination for food enthusiasts looking to explore the richness of American cooking. Enjoy your culinary journey in one of San Diego's most picturesque locales, where every meal is a celebration of American gastronomy.

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