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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in La Jolla

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23 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Paradisaea restaurant
1. Paradisaea
4.7
Exceptional(575)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • La Jolla
Booked 13 times today
Paradisaea in the heart of Bird Rock, La Jolla, offers an unparalleled Contemporary American dining experience that delights with its “creative and delicious” culinary creations. This destination restaurant is celebrated for its “outstanding food and service,” making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Guests rave about the chef’s ability to craft “custom vegan and pescatarian multi-course meals,” showcasing the restaurant's commitment to inclusivity and innovation. With an ambiance that is both “hip and fun,” Paradisaea artfully combines “delicious food and cocktails” with a vibrant atmosphere, ensuring every visit is a memorable culinary adventure. Highly recommended for those seeking modern American cuisine at its finest.
A photo of Beaumont's restaurant
2. Beaumont's
4.6
Exceptional(919)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • La Jolla
Booked 19 times today
Beaumont's Neighborhood Eatery, nestled in the charming Bird Rock area of La Jolla, San Diego, is the quintessential hub for Comfort Food lovers. Known as the “heart and soul of Bird Rock,” this vibrant spot has been delighting locals since 2005 with its authentic, hearty dishes. Guests rave about the "outstanding food and excellent service," while the brunch, featuring unique options like Eggs Benedict, receives accolades for being "superb." Beaumont's effortlessly combines its comforting cuisine with a lively atmosphere, complete with live music and handcrafted cocktails, making it a beloved community gathering place. Experience the warm, inviting vibe that keeps patrons coming back for more!
A photo of Bernini's Bistro & Bar restaurant
3. Bernini's Bistro & Bar
4.7
Exceptional(597)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • La Jolla
Booked 22 times today
Bernini's Bistro & Bar in La Jolla is a true gem for those who appreciate exquisite Contemporary American cuisine. With over 24 years of culinary excellence, it's no wonder it remains a neighborhood favorite. Guests rave about the “excellent food” and “consistently good” dishes that showcase the restaurant's passion for quality and authenticity. The inviting atmosphere, complete with cozy fire pits and a vibrant patio, enhances the dining experience, making it perfect for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings. Bernini's dedication to impeccable service and their standout dishes, such as the cioppino and wood-fired pizzas, ensures a memorable visit every time.
A photo of Bazille - Nordstrom University Town Center restaurant
4. Bazille - Nordstrom University Town Center
4.7
Exceptional(189)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • La Jolla
Booked 4 times today
This full-service restaurant with a casually sophisticated atmosphere features bistro cuisine and a full bar. Enjoy fresh salads, specialty entrées, signature cocktails, a wine list and housemade desserts.Nordstrom is located along Genesee Avenue, between La Jolla Village Drive and Nobel Drive. Bazille is located on the 2nd floor, overlooking the main courtyard of the newly expanded UTC. We offer a full bar with wine, beer & hand crafted cocktails, as well as open patio dining. We are open for dine-in service, covered, heated outdoor patio dining and to-go orders with Curbside Pickup. Call (858) 812-3582 to place your order.Join us for Brunch on weekends;July 4th hours: 11am-5pm
A photo of James' Place restaurant
5. James' Place
4.0
Excellent(1074)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • La Jolla
Booked 2 times today
James' Place in La Jolla offers a delightful journey into Contemporary American cuisine, making it an ideal spot for pre-theater dining at the nearby La Jolla Playhouse. Guests rave about the "outstanding" dining experience, highlighting dishes like the flat iron steak and crispy rice, which showcase the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. With a menu that's both diverse and delicious, James' Place ensures every palate is catered to, blending traditional American tastes with modern flair. The ambiance is described as "elegant and tranquil," making it a perfect setting for a memorable meal. Experience exceptional service and savor the delightful offerings at this beloved local gem.
A photo of Oceana Coastal Kitchen restaurant
6. Oceana Coastal Kitchen
4.4
Awesome(1301)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Pacific Beach
Booked 9 times today
Oceana Coastal Kitchen in Pacific Beach, San Diego, truly exemplifies the essence of top-tier Contemporary American cuisine. Nestled against the stunning backdrop of Mission Bay, this restaurant elevates dining with its exquisite chef-driven California dishes. The ambiance, as noted by patrons, is "a wonderful setting for Sunday brunch or dinner," enriched by live music and mesmerizing ocean views. Their seafood selections, particularly the Alaskan King Crab and Oceana House Roll, captivate the palate with freshness and flavor. As a 2023 TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Best of the Best awardee, Oceana Coastal Kitchen is celebrated for its "delicious food, beautiful view, and amazing service."
A photo of Great Maple San Diego restaurant
7. Great Maple San Diego
4.8
Exceptional(4402)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Hillcrest
Booked 78 times today
Great Maple San Diego, nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Hillcrest, is a beacon of excellence in Contemporary American cuisine. This modern eatery is celebrated for its "outstanding" food and "exceptional" service, making it a favorite destination for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Diners rave about the delightful maple bacon donuts and "delectable" brisket hash, highlighting the creative use of fresh, local ingredients. Reviewers consistently praise the "huge portions" and "fantastic flavors," ensuring no one leaves hungry. With its inviting atmosphere and "friendly" staff, Great Maple offers a truly authentic and memorable dining experience that captures the essence of Contemporary American cuisine.
A photo of South of Nick's - Del Mar restaurant
8. South of Nick's - Del Mar
4.7
Exceptional(626)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Del Mar
Booked 63 times today
Nestled in the heart of Del Mar, San Diego, South of Nick's stands as a beacon of exceptional American cuisine with a tantalizing Southern California twist. This lively eatery has earned rave reviews for its vibrant atmosphere and impeccable service, where "Jordan was the best" and "Chase was phenomenal." Diners are consistently delighted by classic favorites like the "Cabo Shrimp" and "toasted coconut drink," which are celebrated for their authentic flavors and creative flair. With high praise for its rich, flavorful dishes and top-notch hospitality, South of Nick's promises a dining experience that's "always consistently good" and utterly unforgettable.
A photo of Covewood - Mission Bay Resort restaurant
9. Covewood - Mission Bay Resort
4.2
Awesome(543)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Mission Bay
Booked 5 times today
Covewood - Mission Bay Resort offers an exceptional American dining experience that captures the essence of California Coastal Cuisine with a delightful twist. Located in the picturesque Mission Bay, San Diego, this restaurant has garnered rave reviews for its "delicious and beautifully presented" dishes, such as the bold Caesar salad and perfectly cooked burgers. Diners appreciate the "wonderful ambiance" and "fantastic food and service," making it an "unexpected gem" for locals and visitors alike. The restaurant's ability to pair fresh seafood with wood-grilled vegetables and local wines creates a memorable culinary journey that truly stands out in American cuisine.
A photo of Draft restaurant
10. Draft
3.9
Excellent(125)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Mission Bay
Booked 3 times today
Located directly on the Mission Beach boardwalk, Draft Restaurant is serving up 54 beers on tap pairing the surf and sand with a wide variety of craft beers. But the appeal doesn’t stop at the #brewsandviews; Come hungry and experience a fresh take on beachside dining featuring casual, handcrafted fare from Executive Chef Luis Romero.

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Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in La Jolla

Discover the vibrant flavors of contemporary American cuisine in the scenic locale of La Jolla, San Diego. The area is renowned for its culinary diversity, and the restaurants here excel in offering innovative American dishes that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences. Whether you're in the mood for sophisticated dining experiences or casual, hearty meals, La Jolla's dining scene provides an array of options that emphasize quality and creativity. Each restaurant in La Jolla brings its own unique touch to contemporary American cuisine, ensuring that every meal is not just eaten, but experienced. From expertly crafted brews paired with gourmet burgers to innovative brunch dishes that delight the palate, the emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients is evident. The dining ambiance ranges from elegant indoor settings to relaxed outdoor patios, perfect for San Diego’s sunny weather. La Jolla is not just a hub for great food but also for exceptional service and welcoming atmospheres, making it a top choice for both locals and visitors. Whether you are looking for a place to celebrate a special occasion or simply want a quality meal, the contemporary American restaurants in La Jolla promise a satisfying culinary adventure. Experience the heart and soul of American dining in one of the most beautiful settings in San Diego.

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