Best Californian Restaurants in Tierrasanta

I love The Prado at Balboa Park and have been a frequent diner there for many years. It never disappoints and Thanksgiving Day was no exception. We arrived and were immediately greeted and sat on the patio. I requested the patio. There were several diners but it wasn't busy, yet. We were brought water and our server Kara came over and took our beverage order and let us know about the new cocktails and the pre-fixe menu. She helped us make adjustments with what we ordered. Our first course, the beet salad, came out and we were able to eat and chat and enjoy each bit before our entrees came out. Mom and I had the traditional turkey meal and friend had the prime rib. We all tucked right into our meals and they were all so good. There was plenty of food and there was no way we could finish our delicious meals. Dessert was also packed up to go with our leftovers. More families had come in to dine and the energy on the patio was great. We sat and had another cocktail and had wonderful, relaxing Thanksgiving Day.

OUTstanding from start to finish! The decor and ambiance made me so darn happy. It was a golden, gaudy, Christmas explosion and I loved every second of it. Drinks were great and food was incredible. Our server Tommy (I think) was attentive and helpful. We got the Caesar salad, the house salad, the roasted chicken and the short rib. The Caesar salad and short rib were our favorites. We waited a long time to finally make it in but we’ll be back in the spring for a new round of decorations. It’s just so good.

Unmatched hospitality! The server was knowledgeable about the food and able to describe them well. We didn’t have great luck with the clams, they were very chewy & overcooked but the broth was delicious. They took it back and a sweet manager, (I’m forgetting names) sent a hamachi that was to die for! Everything else that hit the table was delicious and we were very impressed. The bubbly and celebration desert was super appreciated as well. Honestly made my birthday dinner feel extra special, some places really don’t go the extra mile but they sure know how to impress.

Man, I noticed a few bad reviews for this place but we totally disagree. This is a cool, smaller restaurant attached to the Hotel Valencia. It has a nice u-shaped bar with what seemed to be mostly locals hanging out talking with the staff. Upscale vibe but not "stuffy" La Jolla vibe. The cocktails were amazing and fairly creative. We also thought the food was excellent, contrary to what a few other folks have said. The braised short rib Mao, crispy pumpkin squash, and twinkie ceaser were the standouts. Only minor downsides were that you can smell the seals a little bit and it was a bit chilly inside, as the door was kept open. Overall we really enjoyed our experience.

worth every penny and every calorie - bravo chef bradley and staff!