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The Whaling Bar, San Diego, CA
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The Whaling Bar

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Visa Dining Collection

$31 to $50
Californian

Make a booking

2 people
MonTueWedThuFriSatSun
7:00 pm
Booked 18 times today
Experiences are available.

About this restaurant

  • Charming
  • Great for creative cocktails
  • Great for happy hour
Rediscover The Whaling Bar in La Jolla, blending historic charm and modern luxury. Once beloved in the La Valencia hotel, it's back after ten years, mixing its rich legacy with today's elegance. Known for its cozy atmosphere and top-notch service, it's been updated for contemporary tastes without losing its heritage essence. Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski, with a background in America's top kitchens and Iron Chef America, leads the culinary journey, offering a menu that combines classic and innovative approaches. The Whaling Bar invites both old fans and new to enjoy luxury and become part of La Jolla's ongoing story.

Why they're an Icon

Executive chef: Brian Redzikowski

From the OpenTable editors: La Valencia Hotel’s iconic cocktail lounge is back and better than ever, thanks to a reboot from San Diego's prolific SDCM Restaurant Group. With emerald-green banquettes, arched windows, and brass pendant lighting, the intimate space’s decor is a nod to the bar’s midcentury heyday. Led by executive chef Brian Redzikowski, the menu is equally glamorous—think lobster rolls and braised short rib baos, plus the restaurant’s original signature cocktail, the Whaler, a twist on Irish coffee.

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Price
    $31 to $50
  • Cuisines
    Californian, Contemporary European, Mediterranean
  • Hours of Operation
    Martini Hour Daily 4:00 pm–5:00 pm Dinner Daily 5:00 pm–10:00 pm Bar Thu–Sat 10:00 pm–12:00 am
  • Phone number
  • Payment Options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Smart Casual
  • Area
    La Jolla
  • Parking details
    Valet
  • Additional
    Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Dog Friendly, Full Bar, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Experiences

  • Whaling Bar Happy Hour – Drinks & Light Bites

    Multiple dates available
    Join us at Whaling Bar for Happy Hour from 4:00 – 5:00 PM! Sip on a curated selection of crafted cocktails, wine, and spirits while enjoying a selection of light bites before dinner service begins at 5:00 PM. We look forward to hosting you—cheers! Details: * Beverage service and light bites available from 4:00 – 5:00 PM * Full dinner menu begins at 5:00 PM

What 105 people are saying

The Whaling Bar reviews from people who’ve dined at this restaurant. Based on recent rating.

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.7
4.7 based on recent ratings
  • 4.7Food
  • 4.6Service
  • 4.7Ambience
  • 4.2Value

NoiseModerate

Loved For

  • San Diego

    Californian

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews
The Whaling Bar in La Jolla offers a lively and charming atmosphere, perfect for date nights or gatherings. Guests rave about the "amazing food" with standout dishes like the "Caesar Twinkie salad" and "lobster roll." The service is often described as "friendly and helpful." While prices are on the higher side, the "cocktails are exceptional," making it a fantastic choice for a special occasion.

At present, The Whaling Bar has no reviews. Please add a review after your dining experience to help others make a decision about where to eat.

FAQs

The Whaling Bar is rated 4.7 stars by 105 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a booking


Booked 18 times today
Experiences are available.
Google Map for The Whaling Bar

1132 Prospect St, San Diego, CA 92037-4533

Additional information

  • Area
    La Jolla
  • Hours of Operation
    Martini Hour Daily 4:00 pm–5:00 pm Dinner Daily 5:00 pm–10:00 pm Bar Thu–Sat 10:00 pm–12:00 am
  • Price
    $31 to $50
  • Cuisines
    Californian, Contemporary European, Mediterranean
  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Dress code
    Smart Casual
  • Parking details
    Valet
  • Payment Options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Additional
    Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Dog Friendly, Full Bar, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Wheelchair Access, Wine
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