By: Carlie Servando & Hannah George By: Carlie Servando & Hannah George | April 3, 2025 | Food & Drink, Feature, Guides,
Adelaide at L’Auberge Del Mar boasts an elegant, coastal-inspired design with ocean views to boot. PHOTO COURTESY OF L’AUBERGE DEL MAR
Indulge in a sensory experience on the ocean terrace of George’s at the Cove, where you can see and feel the beauty of La Jolla’s epic scenery. Since 1984, locals have flocked to this institution for lunch, happy hour and dinner, indulging in local swordfish, Wild Isles salmon and fish tacos among the coastal breeze and stellar sunsets.
Head to the oceanfront terrace at George’s at the Cove for unadulterated sunset views over La Jolla. PHOTO COURTESY OF GEORGE’S AT THE COVE
Executive chef Roberto Alcocer showcases the flavors and traditions of Mexico’s Baja California region at the Michelin-starred Valle using seasonal ingredients sourced from both sides of the border. Located adjacent to Mission Pacific Beach Resort in Oceanside, the restaurant’s wraparound patio is the perfect place to indulge in the chef’s seasonal eight-course tasting menu while taking in beachfront views of the nearby Oceanside Pier.
A.R. Valentien’s patio provides a scenic dining experience. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LODGE AT TORREY PINES
Following a refresh of its kitchen, A.R. Valentien welcomes guests to savor chef Kelli Crosson’s ever-changing seasonal menu. Overlooking the 18th hole of the iconic Torrey Pines Golf Course, the restaurant provides an inviting atmosphere highlighted by its scenic covered patio. While the offerings constantly evolve, the Roman-style Liberty Farms duck breast and confit leg is a staple for a reason.
Tucked within the Bahia Resort Hotel, Dockside 1953 pairs picturesque views with fine dining favorites. While docked boats sway in the distance, settle in under the covered trellis as you savor tender blackened tuna steak or the 14-ounce apple cider-brined pork chop. After your meal, toast to a night well-spent over smoked Old Fashioneds around the fire pit overlooking Mission Bay.
With warmer days ahead, reserve a table at Serea at the historic Hotel del Coronado. Led by chef Jojo Ruiz, this seaside eatery boasts an expansive seafood menu so enticing that choosing just one dish feels impossible. For a fine dining experience, indulge in Serea’s caviar service, featuring sturgeon caviar paired with creme fraiche and finely diced shallots, or keep it classic with the fresh-caught, wood-grilled fish.
Hotel del Coronado’s Serea Coastal Cuisine features a sun-drenched patio, perfect for dining at during any time of the day. PHOTO COURTESY OF CLIQUE HOSPITALITY
The recently opened Rustic Root in Solana Beach offers a welcoming atmosphere that feels both familiar and sophisticated. On its spacious patio, the outdoor fire pits, string lights and eclectic seating make for a comfortable experience from daytime until late at night. While the menu has many highlights, the 28-day aged ribeye is a must-try, made with a rich cabernet reduction and a pristinely layered potato gratin.
Oceana Coastal Kitchen, a mainstay inside the Catamaran Resort Hotel, provides beautiful views of the Mission Bay when dining on its outdoor patio. With the beach just an arm’s length away, guests can indulge in sea-forward, California-inspired fare from chef Bryan Stuppy, including the crispy whole snapper and popular Ocean House Roll.
Celebrity chef Richard Blais’ North County steakhouse, Ember & Rye, is a hit thanks to its gourmet steaks, which are wood-fired on the patio that overlooks the Park Hyatt Aviara golf course. Whether dining in the sun during the day or by a candle-lit glow in the evening, Ember & Rye’s outdoor seating is the perfect spot to enjoy Osetra caviar dip, the Mishima Reserve wagyu beef burger with triple-cooked fries and the photo-worthy Smoking Ember cocktail.
Indulge in elevated French fare on Mille Fleurs’ charming patio in Rancho Santa Fe. PHOTO BY LUCIANNA MCINTOSH
Mille Fleurs transports diners to the French countryside in the heart of charming Rancho Santa Fe. As you settle into the chic veranda, laid with vintage tiles and hidden under the bistro’s signature yellow umbrellas, enjoy the unforgettable flavors of Paris with garlic and herb butter escargot, mallard duck breast with polenta cake and sugar snap peas, and decadent seasonal-inspired creme brulee.
With its French translation meaning “small hotel” or “inn,” Adelaide at L’Auberge Del Mar perfectly captures the essence of comfort and charm. This Michelin Guide-recommended gem features open-air seating with stunning views of the hotel’s elegant exterior and the nearby Del Mar shoreline. Order the fresh and flavorful seafood tower flaunting oysters, prawns, tuna tartare and many other delicacies while you bask in the coastal breeze.
Photography by: Courtesy of L'Auberge Del Mar