Del Mar is a quiet and small beachside town. Del Mar residents and visitors love the beaches and views that this small village in San Diego has to offer. Del Mar restaurants have some of the most delicious food you can enjoy on vacation.
After spending a day on the beach your feet buried in the sand, you will need some good food. These restaurants in Del Mar will be perfect for your following dinner plans. Keep reading to know which place you must try.Â
10 Best Del Mar Restaurants
1. Pacifica del mar
If you need more of the ocean or the beach, this place is for you. This place is perfect for enjoying seafood with an ocean view. Still not impressed? They also have steak and pasta with over 100 vodka options!
The menu at Pacifica Del Mar offers something for everyone. You can have light dishes such as burgers and salads for brunch. Try their creative cocktails like Grapefruit Martini, Smokey the Pear, and Green Flash. They mainly specialize in seafood dishes such as Spanish Octopus Carpaccio. You can try dishes such as hamachi crudo and pan-roasted Alaskan halibut.
You can finish your meal with dessert options such as Bon Bon and mocha semifreddo.Â
2. CUCINA Enoteca Del Mar
“An Italian spot amongst all seafood Del Mar Restaurants”
Even though this restaurant is new, it is loved by all the residents. This Italian restaurant combines the flavors of Italy with the fresh ingredients of sunny California. The menu has all the delicacies straight from Italy.
You can have the most delicious items such as house-made pasta and pizza here. But the best part is that all of this is made from scratch. They even have a signature salumi and cheese program.
CUCINA supports local farmers and produce, and sustainable and organic practices. Do try this restairant for antipasti and dolci.
3. Del Mar Rrendezvous
“Best for Chinese fare among all Del Mar Restaurants”
It is one of the best restaurants in all of San Diego. Started by the creators of Dumpling Inn, it is the best Chinese restaurant in Del Mar Plaza. Modern asian flavors are mixed with Chinese fare giving you a taste of a lifetime.Â
Don’t forget to try their signature crabmeat mango salad. Not feeling any non-vegetarian dishes tonight? They have a separate page in their menu for vegan options such as Dan Dan Noodles.
Enjoy your meal with sake and wine of your choice. Try Desserts such as Xango with banana cheesecake filling to end your dinner on a sweet note.
The open kitchen lets you have a look at all the chefs working to prepare the amazing dishes. The atmosphere is welcoming for kids too. It gets busy during weekend evenings so don’t forget to make reservations beforehand.
4. Cafe Secret
This cafe might be named Secret but the flavors are well known. If you want to try some delicious Peruvian cuisine with Mediterranean fusion, this is the best place for you. Their specialty is delicious and fresh seafood such as Shrimp Causa.
The wildly inventive menu at Cafe Secret lets you enjoy your favorites while giving you options to try something new. You can order dishes such as empanadas, tapas, salad, and other seafood fares. They also offer a ceviche bar. And this might be the only ceviche bar in the entire country.
All in all, this place gives off a very casual and laid-back vibe. The chef also teaches his tips and tricks for making the best Peruvian food. Gather with your friends and family to learn and enjoy a delicious dinner.
5. Jake’s del mar
“A locally loved and popular among all Del Mar Restaurants “
The best part about a beachside vacation is the beach. This restaurant lets you eat right in the sand so your vacation is spent mostly by the oceanside. Jake’s is one of the most loved spots in Del Mar among locals and visitors alike.
You can pick this spot for breakfast, lunch, or happy hour. They also have a Sunday brunch option. Try popular dishes such as mixed seafood pot and baja fish tacos. You can also try the chef’s burger or the steak and wedge.
For vegetarians, they have options such as the beachside vegan. But save some space for your sweet treat. Their hula pie with nut ice cream and cookie crust is beyond imagination.
They also have takeout and delivery services. Your visit is not complete without trying this place at least once.
6. Board and Brew
“Best sandwich place among all Del Mar Restaurants”
This place serves some amazing sandwiches in a very casual setting. Those who love sandwiches will be very impressed with this place. The menu items are very simple and provide very generous portions. Your kids will love the surf theme of the place.
Try the turkey deluxe with turkey breast and cheddar cheese from their specialty section. You can also go for options such as Veggie Supreme if you are a vegetarian
. From the grill section, you have to try options such as Baja chicken with marinated chicken breast and jalapenos with melted jack cheese. The secret sauce along with sweet and sour dressing makes it more delicious. Enjoy your meal with various craft beers.
They make everything from scratch and only use locally sourced ingredients. They work directly with local farmers and only use sustainably produced dairy and meat products. A visit here will leave your tummy full and your tastebuds happy.
7. Kitchen 1540
L’auberge del mar, a luxury hotel in san diego houses this buzzy restaurant. It is one of the best Del Mar restaurants. They provide new American cuisine which might be comfort food for a lot of people. The menu created by the chef reflects the Southern charm with options such as Truffle Salad.
Try lighter options such as organic beet salad with creamy Valdeon blue cheese and crunchy pistachio. The tender meats such as Wagyu tri-tip are equally mouth-watering. For dessert, you can indulge in options such as frozen key lime pie or slow-baked bread pudding. Enjoy your meal with a stunning view of the ocean.
The serving style is an open presentation kitchen. You can also have a private dining room inside a wine vault if you are planning for a romantic and intimate dinner, they have private cabanas too.
8. Market Restaurant and Bar
“One of Del Mar Restaurants serving different items every day”
You will never have the same experience here every time you visit. The reason is mainly the changes in the menu almost daily based on the seasons and availability of ingredients. The cooking style of the chef is very Asian-inspired.
Not only the food but the cocktails are also changing based on the seasons. Fresh fruits and vegetables play a very prominent role in cooking. Located in Via de la Valle, this place never disappoints in terms of flavors and service.
Try their delicious options such as gorgonzola souffle and cabernet braised beef short ribs. They have a lot of sashimi and nigiri options on their sushi menu such as Kampachi and Tuna. Some market specialty sashimi like The Sinner is very popular. Do save some room for dessert options like spiced plum tart and tiramisu.
9. Brigantine Del Mar
According to the locals, the Brigantine is one of the best restaurants in Del Mar. It is very popular amongst them for the casual atmosphere and great food. You can choose any dining area according to the occasion or mood.
Enjoy the lively bar scene with the happy hour or eat in the dining room. If you want outdoor romantic seating, go for the patio with a glass enclosure.
The most popular and recommended dishes here such as fish tacos with cheddar cheese and ranch dressing are amazing. Or you can try options such as the house salad from their oyster bar. The place does get busy during horse racing season.
10. Posideon Restaurant
If you are looking for a place for a weekend brunch, your search is over. Posideon with a casual beach vibe is the best restaurant for a fun meal. It is located right on the beach, making it a perfect date night spot. If you want an amazing view of the ocean ask to sit on the patio.
The menu here has a Mediterranean twist. They are mainly seafood-centric and also offer a wide array of drinks and beers. You can go for safer options such as lobster or shrimp tacos. Also, try the famous dishes such as prime New York steak.
If you have any special requests like vegetarian options or any food allergies, they are very happy to assist you. The service here is impeccable.
