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Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Encinitas

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163 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Herb & Sea restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2929)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Encinitas
Booked 56 times today
Blending classic East Coast culinary traditions with a modern Californian sensibility, Herb & Sea is Chef Brian Malarkey’s venerable companion restaurant to the much-loved Herb & Wood in Little Italy. Quickly becoming one of the most sought-after tables in town, the concept shines with a menu that focuses on simple, clean, bright flavors. Located steps from Moonlight Beach in Encinitas, the vibrant space is housed in a 1920’s art deco building that has been restored to its original glory.Daily operations are helmed by Executive Chef Aidan Owens. The menu includes a mix of raw bar staples, fresh seafood, meat dishes, and roasted vegetables. A variety of pizzas and pastas round out the offerings, alongside dessert and a dedicated kids’ menu.The spirits program is bright and playful, emphasizing citrus and floral notes that utilize the same ingredients found on the menu. The wine list offers a similar sense of whimsy, highlighting labels meant to complemen
A photo of Buona Forchetta Encinitas restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(620)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Encinitas
Booked 51 times today
Buona Forchetta Encinitas, our third location, blends award winning Neapolitan-style pizzas and Northern Italian upscale entrees in a family-friendly, approachable space. Located in Encinitas, this location boasts a indoor seating as well as an outside patio and a small room for private events. Inside, a gilded oven churns out classic creations, while the main kitchen serves up chef-driven pastas and entree dishes. Owner Matteo Cattaneo brought the Italian warehouse-style eatery to life.
A photo of Pacific Coast Grill - Cardiff restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(9359)
Price: Very Expensive
• Seafood • Cardiff By The Sea
Booked 82 times today
Pacific Coast Grill's oceanfront venue features unique Pacific Coastal cuisine, an oyster bar, select sushi rolls, and a plethora of seafood choices, delicious steaks and more! There are two levels of dining at the new PCG with every dining seat in the house carefully planned to have an ocean view. There are bars on both levels and a heated outdoor patio and a deck with one of the best views of the Pacific Ocean and the line up at Cardiff Reef. You can watch surfers, kite surfers, dolphins, whales and spectacular sunsets from throughout the restaurant.
A photo of Le Papagayo Encinitas restaurant
4.5
Awesome(2277)
Price: Moderate
• American • Encinitas
Booked 27 times today
Le Papagayo blends New American and Pacific Coast cuisine to create an amazing fine dining experience. The Chef and Myself combine the freshest of local ingredients and flavor to create a unique character for each meal created from scratch. Dining at Le Papagayo is a full experience that will delight all your senses. Amazing food and a warm and inviting dining room which looks like an art gallery are all part of the experience.We also offer a heated patio and unplugged live music every night.
A photo of Vigilucci's Trattoria Italiana restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1363)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Encinitas
Booked 13 times today
Vigilucci’s Trattoria Italiana features an exceptional menu of Italian favorites, steaks and the freshest seafood. Menu highlights include many of the company’s signature dishes, made from scratch pastas, salads, steaks, seafood, pizzas and calzones. Group dining space is available for large or small groups. Our casual yet sophisticated piano bar enhances the dining experience in the main dining room and front patio.For off-site events and parties contact Cater@Vigiluccis.comCatering to the most discerning palates for over 30 years,Vigilucci’s catering team can custom create a unique and memorable menu for celebrating life’s special occasions.
A photo of Ember & Rye restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1297)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Carlsbad
Booked 37 times today
Ember & Rye is a special occasion restaurant with its delightful steaks and fresh seafood dishes, served in a vintage clubhouse setting. Many reviewers noted it as a great choice for special events, like birthdays and anniversaries, and appreciated the attentive service and fantastic food. The stunning views over the 18th green also add to the charm.
A photo of Chart House Restaurant - Cardiff restaurant
4.4
Awesome(7310)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Solana Beach
Booked 67 times today
Chart House is a fine dining restaurant serving seafood & steak and famous for their spectacular views. For more than 50 years, Chart House has redefined the ideal dining experience. With 27 waterfront and showcase locations ranging from the historic to the unforgettable, Chart House restaurants specialize in dazzling views, unique cuisine and exceptional service. From fresh fish specialties to slow-roasted prime rib, the renowned chefs of Chart House have tailored a menu that adds a unique touch to local flavors. And the Chart House happy hour is a guest favorite, where guest favor our signature cocktails and delicious bites you are sure to enjoy. Our original Hot Chocolate Lava Cake is the perfect end to a memorable dining experience at Chart House. Chart House offers the ideal setting for your next event. We would be happy to assist you with all the details of your special occasion.
A photo of Ki's Restaurant restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1044)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Cardiff By The Sea
Booked 12 times today
Daytime service is as it always has been: order at the counter and the food will be brought to you in the seating area upstairs or out under our tent. Night-time is full service in the upstairs seating area. On Friday nights, we also have live music from 7-9pm.Ki's is a perfect fit for its local beach community culture. We provide food options that serve the needs of people who enjoy the outdoors and have a high degree of awareness for their health, fitness and well being. And Ki's is more than just a 'health food' option for many. It is simply great food for anyone-professionals, families looking for a home-cooked meal or friends hanging out enjoying some tasty eats.
A photo of Chandler's Oceanfront Dining- Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, a Hilton Resort & Spa restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1528)
Price: Moderate
• Unspecified • Carlsbad
Booked 19 times today
Relish in coastal California cuisine handcrafted with a fresh and flavorful approach at our ocean view restaurant in Carlsbad, CA. Our menu continues to be reinvented with innovation and craft, but always with upscale ingredients to savor with every bite. Ocean views served complimentary. Discover this coastal and comfortable gem right here in North County San Diego.
A photo of Brigantine Del Mar restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2787)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Del Mar
Booked 32 times today
A San Diego tradition since 1969, the Brigantine has received many accolades in our 40+ year history. "BEST SEAFOOD", "BEST CASUAL SEAFOOD", "BEST HAPPY HOUR", and even "BEST SWORDFISH IN THE WORLD", according to USA Today.Well-known for our signature Clam Chowder, Grilled Swordfish, and Crème Brûlée, the Brigantine is a favorite among locals for consistently fresh seafood, succulent steaks and grilled meats. Perched between the spectacular Pacific Ocean and the hills of Rancho Santa Fe, the Del Mar Brigantine sits high above the action of the Del Mar racetrack.A lushly landscaped garden offers an unparalleled setting for weddings and outdoor-themed events. Indoors, a formal dining room looks out to the garden through floor-to-ceiling french doors. For more casual dining, the glass-enclosed deck is a year-round favorite.The Del Mar Brigantine serves dinner 7 nights a week, lunch Monday-Saturday, and brunch each Sunday.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Tiffanie
    Fayetteville / Northwest Arkansas •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    What an fantastic experience! We were a group of 4 that split the mussel toast and hush puppies both delicious, don't skip the honey herb butter . We enjoyed the ragu, yellow tail, carrots, beets, and bone marrow app. We enjoyed every item we ordered. Robert and his lovely manager took such great care of us and seating us in an area better suited for my FIL. The noise level isn't in anyone's control, so if you are wanting a quiet dinner go earlier or later. It is a happening spot where every is having a great time, so be ready. We couldn't have asked for a better experience. ❤
    More info
    Herb & SeaPrice: Moderate• Californian• Encinitas
    4.6
  • BillVIP
    San Diego •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    Always excellent in every category. Staff is knowledgeable about menu specials and standard items. Food is served hot and quickly, even during busy evening. Happy to recommend this local eatery.
    More info
    Buona Forchetta EncinitasPrice: Moderate• Italian• Encinitas
    4.7
  • OpenTable Diner
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Came to Pacific Coast Grill for dinner and had a great experience overall. Our server was friendly, attentive, and checked in often without being overbearing. The Hot Stone Surf & Turf was a fun, interactive dish, though a little anxiety-inducing making sure everything was cooked correctly. The ahi was definitely better than the filet. The shrimp dumplings were the favorite of the night—the texture was phenomenal, and the sauce was sweet and flavorful. The sea bass had a light sauce that complemented it nicely. The salmon was cooked well, though it could have used a bit more sauce to balance out the amount of rice. It leaned on the sweeter side, which matched the menu description. The lobster was cooked well though there was nothing remarkable about it. For dessert, the tempura bananas and apple pie were a perfect way to end the night. Definitely a great spot for a meal with a view! You should plan on valeting your car.
    More info
    Pacific Coast Grill - CardiffPrice: Very Expensive• Seafood• Cardiff By The Sea
    4.8
  • JulieVIP
    Sacramento / Sacramento Valley •14 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Vigilucci’s is always a delight. I’ve never had anything less than a wonderful meal. Our service is always amazing, the food is made with care, always fresh, and the portions are generous. I’ve been visiting all three Vigilucci’s locations for a couple of years now, and the Trattoria in Leucadia is my favorite of the three.
    More info
    Vigilucci's Trattoria ItalianaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Encinitas
    4.6
  • OpenTable Diner
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on 5 Mar 2025
    Mackenzie is the best! She made my daughter’s birthday dinner even better. Will request her every time if we can. Also, food was delicious and came out fast. Overall exceptional experience!
    More info
    Le Papagayo EncinitasPrice: Moderate• American• Encinitas
    4.5

Discover best special occasions restaurants in Encinitas

Discover the perfect dining destinations for special occasions in Encinitas, North San Diego. This charming coastal area boasts a vibrant dining scene that caters to a variety of tastes and preferences, making it an ideal location for celebrating those memorable moments. Whether you're planning an intimate dinner for two or a larger gathering, the restaurants here offer a mix of ambiance, from cozy and romantic to lively and festive. Each establishment is renowned for providing exceptional service and a diverse menu that highlights fresh, local ingredients. The attention to detail in both cuisine and setting ensures a dining experience that not only satisfies the palate but also creates lasting memories. Encinitas's restaurant scene is uniquely positioned to offer an unforgettable culinary journey, making every special occasion truly extraordinary.

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