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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Del Mar

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25 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Jake's Del Mar restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(10376)
Price: Moderate
• American • Del Mar
Booked 98 times today
Aloha friends of Jake’s Del Mar! We are open for indoor and outdoor dining, takeout, and delivery. Visit jakesdelmar.com to view our menus or place a takeout order online!Jake’s is the quintessential California oceanfront dining experience. The eclectic menu compliments the casual, yet elegant restaurant atmosphere right on the Del Mar shore. With chef-driven California coastal fare, craft cocktails, and unforgettable ocean views, it’s the best of the west coast. Whether for a date night or a celebration with friends and family, Jake’s serves up something special every time.
A photo of Shimbashi Izakaya restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(976)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Del Mar
Booked 16 times today
Shimbashi's theme is based on the Izakaya, a Japanese tapas restaurant. We offer a multi-faceted menu that can be used as a pairing with sake for the light eater or sophisticated dinner entrées served in the Japanese tradition. Our menu changes with the season making each dining experience a new adventure.
A photo of South of Nick's - Del Mar restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(587)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Del Mar
Booked 55 times today
An essential stop in San Diego for Southern California Mexican Cuisine.South of Nick's Mexican Kitchen & Bar features Classic Mexican favorites, prime steaks and seafood with a So Cal twist. Fine Tequilas & Margaritas Our food and drink meets the highest standards of quality, freshness and seasonality and combines both modern-creative and traditional styles of cooking. Nick’s is dedicated to perfecting the dining experience through continuous innovation, offering the highest quality food and beverage, and executing impeccable standards of hospitality. The deeply instilled Nick’s culture is personified by its Ladies and Gentlemen – professionals who share a single focus and are inspired and committed to offering great service and creating positive memorable experiences.
A photo of Pacific Coast Grill - Cardiff restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(9148)
Price: Very Expensive
• Seafood • Cardiff By The Sea
Booked 79 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 Tavern restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(525)
Price: Moderate
• American • Solana Beach
Booked 21 times today
Newly remodeled, the much airier Tavern is all about art, music, and above all great food. Open for lunch and soon to include evening dining, the Tavern adds a distinctly Mexican/Pacific Coast set of flavors to the local fine dining scene.We are located in the heart of the Cedros Design District, within walking distance of the Amtrak station. The style is casual with indoor and outdoor dining ( plus bar seating). The patio, which can accommodate 18 guests, looks out onto the shop-lined Cedros Avenue and can be separated from the main dining area for private events.*Please note* Our restaurant welcomes walk-ins during our Lunch hours from 11:30 am- 3:30 pm. *Tavern restaurant will be closed for dinner (Lunch will remain open Monday and Tuesday when the belly up is dark)*Please check our website for the most up-to-date hours*
A photo of Ruth's Chris Steak House - Del Mar restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(3567)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Del Mar
Booked 46 times today
Now Open: We look forward to serving you soon.Ruth's Chris Steak House in San Diego (Del Mar), CA serves the finest USDA Prime beef available, broiled at 1,800° and served on 500° plates, so your steak stays hot, juicy and delicious from first bite to last. Enjoy our New Orleans-inspired appetizers, USDA Prime steaks, fresh seafood, signature side dishes and homemade desserts. All this while you enjoy our warm, inviting atmosphere and Ruth’s Chris’ genuine hospitality. So whether you’re a regular or have just been wondering what all the buzz is about, Ruth's Chris is the perfect excuse to enjoy the perfect night out. Dinner is served nightly, reservations are suggested and private dining and offsite catering may be arranged.
A photo of Milton's Restaurant restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(393)
Price: Moderate
• American • Del Mar
Booked 11 times today
Your hosts, David Levy and Barry Robbins, welcome you to their version of a traditional deli! When we opened in 1995 our goal was to remind our customers what a deli experience is like. From crunchy kosher pickles to piled high pastrami and corned beef sandwiches, steaming bowls of matzo ball soup, traditional brisket dinners and a bakery boasting homemade recipes, we hope to please our customers from start to finish. We work hard to source the best meats, vegetables, and ingredients all while developing new items to keep up with current culinary trends!
A photo of AR Valentien at The Lodge at Torrey Pines restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2506)
Price: Very Expensive
• Farm-to-table • La Jolla
A.R. Valentien, the signature restaurant at the AAA Five Diamond resort The Lodge at Torrey Pines, features innovative California cuisine served in a breathtaking setting overlooking the Torrey Pines Golf Course and Pacific Ocean coastline. Executive Chef Kelli Crosson uses only the best local provisions, and the menu changes daily depending on what's offered at local farmers' markets, as well as from other local growers, ranchers and fishermen. The restaurant's wine list features California wines exclusively, including a variety of boutique wineries from throughout the state. A.R. Valentien’s sophisticated design includes artwork from the restaurant’s namesake, Albert Robert Valentien, and a spacious outdoor terrace. Special events include the seasonal Artisan Table dinner series and Celebrate the Craft, an annual charity event benefiting The Ecology Center.PLEASE NOTE: We will be temporarily closed starting Dinner, October 13 - March 2025, due to kitchen enhancement renovations
A photo of Torreyana restaurant
3.8
Excellent(124)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Torrey Pines
Booked 1 time today
From breakfast to dinner and everything in between, the dining options at Torreyana are designed with you in mind. Savor delicious dishes prepared with only the freshest ingredients, or unwind with a craft cocktail by the outdoor fire pits at sunset. Additionally, enjoy an all-star selection of craft beer while you catch a game in the lounge on our 14 HD TVs including an 82-inch TV with surround sound.
A photo of Marisi restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1036)
Price: Very Expensive
• Italian • La Jolla
Discovering Italy by way of La Jolla, Marisi focuses on Italian hearth cooking with an emphasis on handmade pastas, fine wine and classic cocktails. The menu celebrates the rich diversity of cuisine from across Italy, fashioned in a time-honored tradition of handmade all day, every day. A dream that lives between the Italian and La Jolla coasts, suspended between tides instead of time — a mood more than a plot. A visit that feels a lot like coming home, if home was a warm, charming villa off the Amalfi coast. Marisi is a taste of something you want to remember. We hope you love it.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • OpenTable Dinervip
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We enjoyed a fun dinner at Duke’s. Great service, beautiful view. Hula Pie never dissapoints.
    More info
    Duke's La JollaPrice: Moderate• Hawaii Regional Cuisine• La Jolla
    4.6
  • Martyvip
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    If you’re looking for a spot with a lively New Orleans vibe and flavorful dishes, this restaurant hits the mark. The menu was packed with tasty options, and everything we tried was well-prepared and delicious. The atmosphere was warm and vibrant, capturing that Southern charm perfectly. However, the Cognac Espresso Martini was a bit of a letdown. I’d suggest sticking with their other beverage offerings or pairing your meal with a classic cocktail or wine instead. Overall, it’s a great spot for a flavorful meal and a fun experience, but I’d pass on the espresso martini.
    More info
    Louisiana Purchase SDPrice: Expensive• Creole / Cajun / Southern• North Park
    4.5
  • Dillonvip
    New York City •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    It was a pleasant dining experience. We sat between two heat lamps just outside of the restaurant. The special crudo of the day was refreshing and clean tasting. The two-face tostada was also good. The memorable dish of the night was the risotto. It was creamy but not overly rich and the rice had a good bite to it.
    More info
    Crudo Ceviche & Oyster BarPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Little Italy
    4.5
  • Johnvip
    San Diego •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Got reservations for seats at the bar. There is a tasting menu, as well as a separate bar menu, mostly small plates. Cocktails from menu are twists on classic cocktails, and they were truly extraordinary, as well as the off menu cocktails we ordered, and we've sampled some of the best. Food sampled at bar: Crudo, Tartare, Pain et Beurre, and Gougere. All were phenomenal. Service at bar was very attentive and knowledgable, they know what they're doing, and they do it well. Cool vibe and music playing from reel to reel player in bar. Very open, busy kitchen with frequent calls from cooks, "Oui, chef!" Great for foodies and cocktail nerds. Pricey, some may not appreciate the value.
    More info
    Jeune et JoliePrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary French• Carlsbad
    4.9
  • Lynnvip
    Grand Rapids / Western Michigan •54 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    We were greeted nicely. I fell down on the way to the restaurant and hurt my finger. The restaurant staff offered me a bandaid and some cream. They also checked on me during our meal! That’s an excellent compliment to them! Thank you so much!
    More info
    Great Maple San DiegoPrice: Moderate• American• Hillcrest
    4.8

Discover best worth the drive restaurants in Del Mar

Discover the enchanting dining options in San Diego, Del Mar, and North San Diego that are truly "worth the drive." This curated selection of restaurants epitomizes the vibrant culinary scene characteristic of these locales, renowned for their exceptional food quality, stunning ambiance, and impeccable service. Each establishment has been chosen for its unique ability to offer a memorable dining experience, reflecting a deep commitment to culinary excellence and customer satisfaction. Whether you're seeking innovative cuisine, traditional dishes with a modern twist, or breathtaking ocean views that accompany your meal, these restaurants deliver on all fronts. The dining scene in this area is diverse, offering everything from upscale eateries to charming beachside bistros, all upholding a standard of excellence that makes them destination-worthy. Perfect for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike, these spots are guaranteed to enhance your culinary journey and merit the trip. Engage with the flavors of San Diego and its neighboring communities for a dining adventure that's worth every mile.

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