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Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Del Mar

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51 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Jake's Del Mar restaurant
1. Jake's Del Mar
4.8
Exceptional(10571)
Price: Moderate
• American • Del Mar
Booked 106 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 Pacifica Del Mar restaurant
2. Pacifica Del Mar
4.5
Awesome(4891)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Del Mar
Booked 31 times today
Perched atop the Del Mar Plaza in the heart of the Village, Pacifica Del Mar has remained a local gem for years as one of the neighborhood’s most sought-after places to dine, wine and gather with friends and family. Their menu showcases casual and inspired fare - like fresh seafood, steak and pasta - complimented by an award-winning wine list and creative cocktails.Whether you choose to dine on their cozy ocean view patio, or join them in our vibrant dining room or bar, their warm service and great food and drink will provide a memorable dining experience.We look forward to seeing you at Pacifica Del Mar. Please note that in an effort to give our staff enough time to turn over and sanitize tables between diners, reservations will be limited to an hour and a half for parties of 4 or less, and 2 hours for parties 5+. We thank you for understanding and helping us keep things safe for you.
A photo of Beeside Balcony Del Mar restaurant
3. Beeside Balcony Del Mar
4.6
Exceptional(1438)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary European • Del Mar
Booked 27 times today
Beeside Balcony is a hidden gem in old Del Mar, CA with a relaxed seaside chic décor where guests enjoy global mediterranean cuisine and ocean views from the covered outside balcony. A third generation chef of Spanish and Italian descent, and hailing form Paris, France, Christophe's restaurant career began at 17 in the kitchen of his father's restaurant in Pasadena when they first emigrated to the USA. Upon returning to southern California in 2011, Christophe spent 8 years as the managing partner of Eddie V's Prime Seafood in La Jolla. Here he deepened his knowledge of sourcing and cooking the freshest seafood available, while delivering world class service. The laid back coastal vibe of Del Mar, combined with the attention to detail from Christophe's fine dining background, infuses Beeside Balcony with an easy elegance that elevates any gathering, and makes the perfect backdrop to showcase his global mediterranean menu.
A photo of Sbicca - Del Mar restaurant
4. Sbicca - Del Mar
4.6
Exceptional(2532)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Del Mar
Booked 11 times today
Sbicca - Del Mar is a neighborhood gem, loved by locals for its fantastic food and service. The restaurant offers a beautiful ocean view, delicious cuisine and has received several awards for its service. As one reviewer put it, 'Great local spot! Stopped in for happy hour and there were solid food and cocktails options… friendly service and welcoming feel to this neighborhood gem.'
A photo of Il Fornaio - Del Mar restaurant
5. Il Fornaio - Del Mar
4.4
Awesome(2392)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Del Mar
Booked 21 times today
Step inside Il Fornaio and take a culinary journey through Italy. Early mornings bring rustic, crisp crusted bread hot from the oven accompanied by the scent of fresh brewed espresso. During lunch and dinner hours, pastas and flavorful sauces simmer while meats and vegetables roast over hot coals. Bottles of wine from small, regional wineries are uncorked to complement the dishes, which have been crafted in the custom of Italy's chefs, bakers and homemakers. Specialties include wood-fired rotisserie and grilled meats, poultry and game; house made pastas; pizzas from an oak wood burning oven; fresh salads and house made soups; a wide variety of desserts; and fresh baked bread made daily from scratch. Repeat winner of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence.
A photo of Del Mar Seaside Grill restaurant
6. Del Mar Seaside Grill
4.4
Awesome(15)
Price: Moderate
• Mediterranean • Del Mar
Booked 2 times today
Restaurant critics, neighborhood regulars and first-time visitors always agree about Del Mar Seaside Grill– the atmosphere is great, the food is outstanding and the service is superb. This restaurant offers a sophisticated, yet casual atmosphere that is perfect for dining with friends, co-workers and family members. The mouth-watering menu features a wide array of great selections always made from highest quality ingredients. Del Mar Seaside Grill can accommodate parties up to 250 people in its main dining room. With 25 years of experience and continuing, Del Mar Seaside Grill in one of San Diego’s finest restaurants and a town favorite.
A photo of Poseidon restaurant
7. Poseidon
4.8
Exceptional(5636)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Del Mar
Booked 56 times today
The minute you walk into Poseidon, you’ll be swept by the fabulous view. You couldn’t be closer to the sand and the beach than sitting at Poseidon on their beautiful outdoor patio. With such a spectacular ocean view, you’ll experience breathtaking sunsets and during the right season even catch a glimpse of the whales migrating up or down the coast. The bar offers a large circular firepit, which is nice on those chilly fall or winter nights. Off to the side of the bar is a split level dining room offering every table a panoramic view of the beach and the ocean. For decades, Poseidon has delighted both local San Diegans and the tourists that love the beach.
A photo of Pacific Coast Grill - Cardiff restaurant
8. Pacific Coast Grill - Cardiff
4.8
Exceptional(9310)
Price: Very Expensive
• Seafood • Cardiff By The Sea
Booked 95 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 Ruth's Chris Steak House - Del Mar restaurant
9. Ruth's Chris Steak House - Del Mar
4.6
Exceptional(3647)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Del Mar
Booked 49 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 The Grill at The Lodge at Torrey Pines restaurant
10. The Grill at The Lodge at Torrey Pines
4.6
Exceptional(2389)
Price: Moderate
• American • La Jolla
Booked 47 times today
The Grill at The Lodge at Torrey Pines is a restaurant that offers an exclusive view of the iconic Torrey Pines Golf Course. Guests can enjoy wood-fired dishes, craft beer choices, and an expanded patio. The restaurant is known for its decadent Drugstore Hamburger, but it also offers a variety of other dishes, including salads, seafood, and steaks. The Grill is committed to using local ingredients and sound craftsmanship. The restaurant's ambiance is welcoming and thoughtful, and the team is dedicated to providing a memorable experience for guests.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Richard
    Las Vegas •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Booked a nice Valentine’s Day dinner with my mother and wife. I got a nice view of the sunset with the waves crashing enjoying my delicious scallop dinner. Idk how much better it could get. Miranda was an excellent server.
    More info
    Beeside Balcony Del MarPrice: Expensive• Contemporary European• Del Mar
    •
    4.6
  • Lorie
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Beautiful and unique layout of the restaurant. Delicious food. Our server was so friendly, competent and wonderful. One of the owners or managers, even stopped by for a friendly greeting. Overall, a wonderfuldate experience!
    More info
    Sbicca - Del MarPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Del Mar
    •
    4.6
  • Kathleen
    San Diego •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We have been regulars at Jake’s over the years. It’s about the best atmosphere you could ask for. It’s very exclusive but very beach casual which makes it so comfortable. Great service every time we go there. They don’t serve the main course until you are ready…this is such an exception to most restaurants around town that are pushing you to finish and move on. All around thumbs up!!!
    More info
    Jake's Del MarPrice: Moderate• American• Del Mar
    •
    4.8
  • JoVIP
    San Diego •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Pacifica never disappoints. Delicious food, fantastic service, great ambience and view. I’m a vegetarian and even though Pacifica seems to focus on seafood, their vegetarian options have been creative and delicious every time. Extensive wine selection too, with half-price bottles on Thursdays, it’s a great value.
    More info
    Pacifica Del MarPrice: Expensive• Seafood• Del Mar
    •
    4.5
  • SusanVIP
    San Diego •15 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Looking for an indoor spot for a great lunch on a rainy day, my family and I chose Il Fornaio Del Mar ~ and got exactly what we were looking for! Everything was delicious, and our server was absolutely wonderful. I've always loved this place for special sunset dinners on warm nights, but it was also the perfect choice for a conversational lunch. Thanks so much!
    More info
    Il Fornaio - Del MarPrice: Moderate• Italian• Del Mar
    •
    4.4

Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Del Mar

Discover the charm of "neighborhood gems" in Del Mar, North San Diego, where each restaurant offers a unique blend of local flavors, exceptional service, and a welcoming atmosphere. These hidden treasures in Del Mar are celebrated for their authentic cuisines, from classic Italian to contemporary American, ensuring a memorable dining experience for every palate. Patrons consistently praise the cozy ambiance, friendly staff, and the quality of the meals, making these spots highly recommended by locals and visitors alike. The dining scene in Del Mar is vibrant and diverse, characterized by its stunning ocean views and a commitment to high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or a fine dining experience, these neighborhood gems in Del Mar provide the perfect setting for any occasion. Each restaurant's dedication to excellence and authentic dining experience make them stand out as must-visit locations in North San Diego. Embrace the local charm and culinary delights of Del Mar’s neighborhood gems on your next dining adventure.

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