The Absolute Best Appetizers in LA Jolla [Updated 2024]

And let me tell you, there are plenty to choose from! After years of indulging in bite-sized delights, I can confidently say that LA Jolla is a haven for appetizer lovers.

From crispy calamari to savory sliders, the options are endless. In fact, I've taken it upon myself to personally review 13 different appetizers in LA Jolla, just so you don't have to.

So whether you're a local or just passing through, join me on this tasty adventure as we uncover the best appetizers this enchanting coastal town has to offer.

Cusp Dining & Drinks

Highlights
Great ocean view
Outstanding blood orange margarita
Good pizzas with roasted carrots and goat cheese
Live music throughout the evening
Hidden gem with great service

Let's start with the view, shall we? From the moment I walked in, I was captivated by the stunning ocean vista that greeted me. It was like a painting come to life, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of tranquility wash over me.

But let's not forget about the appetizers! Now, if you're expecting typical bar bites, think again. Cusp Dining & Drinks takes their appetizer game to a whole new level. The standout for me was their outstanding blood orange margarita. With its perfect balance of tangy citrus and smooth tequila, it was a refreshing start to my evening.

Now brace yourselves for this next one: pizzas with roasted carrots and goat cheese. Yes, you read that right. And let me tell you, it works! The combination of the earthy sweetness from the roasted carrots and the creamy tanginess from the goat cheese is a match made in culinary heaven.

As I indulged in these delectable treats, I was serenaded by live music that filled the air throughout the evening. It added a touch of elegance and created a lively atmosphere that enhanced my dining experience.

One thing I must mention is that Cusp Dining & Drinks is truly a hidden gem. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of La Jolla's main streets, it offers an intimate ambiance with great service to match. The staff were attentive and knowledgeable, making sure every aspect of my visit was exceptional.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an appetizer adventure with breathtaking views and a touch of sophistication, make your way to Cusp Dining & Drinks. Trust me when I say their appetizers will tantalize your taste buds in ways you never thought possible.

You might also want to check out the best appetizers in San Diego.

NINE-TEN Restaurant & Bar

Highlights
Exceptionally excellent
Consistently delicious
Easygoing elegance
Phenomenal food
Amazing wine list

Let me start by saying that my taste buds were absolutely delighted by the exceptionally excellent appetizers at NINE-TEN Restaurant & Bar. This place has truly mastered the art of creating appetizers that are both playful and professional.

From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with an atmosphere of easygoing elegance. The staff were attentive and knowledgeable, adding to the overall dining experience. But let's get to what really matters: the food.

The appetizers at NINE-TEN are nothing short of a culinary masterpiece. Each bite was a burst of flavor that left me craving for more. From their succulent grilled octopus served with a tangy citrus aioli to their delicate duck confit spring rolls, every dish was consistently delicious.

But what really sets this place apart is their commitment to using only the finest ingredients, resulting in phenomenal food that surpasses expectations. The flavors were perfectly balanced, and each ingredient played its part in creating a harmonious symphony on my palate.

And let's not forget about their amazing wine list. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or just starting your journey into the world of wines, NINE-TEN has something for everyone. The knowledgeable sommeliers are always ready to recommend the perfect pairing for your meal.

In conclusion, if you find yourself in LA Jolla and have a hankering for some top-notch appetizers, then look no further than NINE-TEN Restaurant & Bar. Their outstanding dishes and remarkable attention to detail make them a standout choice for anyone seeking an unforgettable dining experience.

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The Spot La Jolla

Highlights
Delicious food
Great atmosphere
Incredible server
Fried fish tacos
Fantastic garlic bread

Let me start by saying, if you're looking for a place that serves delicious appetizers, The Spot La Jolla should be at the top of your list. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere that made me feel right at home.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh boy, where do I begin? The menu is filled with an array of mouthwatering options, but one dish that really stood out to me was their fried fish tacos. These little bites of heaven were perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Each bite was bursting with flavor, leaving me craving for more.

And let's not forget about their fantastic garlic bread. It was like biting into a slice of pure bliss. The bread was perfectly toasted and topped with just the right amount of garlic and herbs. It was so good that I found myself fighting off the urge to order another plate.

One aspect that truly enhanced my dining experience was the incredible server who attended to our every need. Their knowledge of the menu and recommendations were spot-on (no pun intended). They went above and beyond to ensure we had a memorable experience.

In conclusion, if you're in LA Jolla and searching for delectable appetizers, make sure to visit The Spot La Jolla. With its delicious food, great atmosphere, and incredible service, it definitely earns its spot as one of the best places to indulge in appetizers in LA Jolla!

You might also want to check out the best tacos in San Diego.

Barbarella Restaurant & Bar

Highlights
Lively atmosphere
Friendly staff
Delicious food

Walking into Barbarella Restaurant & Bar, I was immediately struck by its lively atmosphere. The dimly lit space, adorned with vibrant artwork and pulsating music, transported me to a hip and trendy hotspot. It was evident that this place knows how to have a good time.

The staff at Barbarella were as friendly as they come, greeting me with warm smiles and making me feel right at home. Their genuine enthusiasm for their craft was contagious, and it set the tone for an enjoyable dining experience.

Now onto the star of the show – the appetizers! Barbarella certainly knows how to tantalize taste buds. From the moment I took my first bite of their famous truffle fries, I knew I was in for a treat. The crispy shoestring fries were elevated to new heights with a generous drizzle of truffle oil and a sprinkling of parmesan cheese. Each bite was an explosion of flavor.

Another standout dish was their tuna tartare. The delicate cubes of fresh tuna were perfectly complemented by zesty lime juice, creamy avocado, and a hint of heat from jalapeños. It was a refreshing and light option that left me wanting more.

Barbarella's menu also boasts options like crispy calamari rings served with tangy marinara sauce and flavorful bruschetta topped with juicy tomatoes and aromatic basil.

In conclusion, if you're looking for appetizers that not only satisfy your cravings but also transport you to a world of culinary delight, then Barbarella Restaurant & Bar is the place to be. With its lively atmosphere, friendly staff, and delicious food, it's no wonder why this spot is considered one of the best in LA Jolla for appetizers. So go ahead and indulge yourself – your taste buds will thank you!

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Nautilus Tavern

Highlights
Delicious food
Outdoor dining
Tasty cheese curds
Variety of menu options
Great fish tacos

Upon entering the tavern, I was immediately struck by its charming ambiance and friendly staff. The outdoor dining area provided a delightful setting to enjoy the beautiful LA Jolla weather while indulging in some scrumptious appetizers.

Speaking of which, let me start by praising their delicious food. Nautilus Tavern offers a variety of menu options that cater to all taste buds. From seafood delights to vegetarian delights, there is something for everyone.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show - the appetizers! My taste buds were tantalized by their delectable cheese curds. Oh my! These bite-sized cheesy wonders had just the right amount of gooeyness and were perfectly seasoned. Each bite was like a little burst of joy in my mouth.

But it doesn't stop there, folks! Nautilus Tavern also boasts some great fish tacos. The fish was impeccably fresh and cooked to perfection. The combination of flavors and textures in these tacos was simply divine.

What sets Nautilus Tavern apart from other establishments is not only their tasty appetizers but also their commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience. The attentive staff ensured that my visit was nothing short of memorable.

If you're looking for a place to satisfy your appetite with delicious appetizers while enjoying the LA Jolla breeze, then Nautilus Tavern is the place to be. Don't miss out on this hidden gem!

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Wheat & Water

Highlights
Authentic pizza
Fantastic staff
Local experience

Let me start by saying that if you're looking for an authentic pizza experience, Wheat & Water is the place to be. They have mastered the art of crafting mouthwatering, thin-crust pizzas that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy. But let's not forget, I was on a mission to find the best appetizers in LA Jolla.

The first thing that caught my attention was the fantastic staff at Wheat & Water. They were friendly, attentive, and genuinely passionate about their food. It's always a pleasure when you can feel the enthusiasm radiating from the people serving you.

Now, let's talk about their appetizers. The menu offers an array of delectable options that are perfect for sharing or indulging in all by yourself (no judgments here). From crispy calamari with a tangy marinara sauce to savory meatballs smothered in a heavenly tomato sauce, each bite was a burst of flavor that left me craving more.

One standout dish that I cannot recommend enough is their Caprese Bruschetta. This delightful twist on a classic Italian favorite combines juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, fragrant basil leaves, and drizzles it all with balsamic reduction. It's like having summer on a plate!

What sets Wheat & Water apart from other establishments is its commitment to providing a truly local experience. The ingredients used in their dishes are sourced from nearby farms and markets whenever possible, ensuring freshness and supporting the community.

So if you're looking for an authentic pizzeria experience with fantastic staff and delectable appetizers that showcase local flavors, make sure to visit Wheat & Water in LA Jolla. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

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Manhattan Of La Jolla

Highlights
Expensive tasting food
Excellent service
Welcoming atmosphere

As soon as I walked into Manhattan Of La Jolla, I knew I was in for a treat. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, with dimmed lights and soft jazz music playing in the background. The restaurant had an air of sophistication that immediately caught my attention.

Now let's talk about the appetizers. Oh boy, were they something else! Each bite felt like a culinary adventure. The flavors were bold and exciting, leaving my taste buds dancing with joy. From the first bite to the last, it was clear that Manhattan Of La Jolla spared no expense in crafting their appetizers.

The service was top-notch. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable, making sure to explain each dish with expertise. They even took the time to recommend drinks that perfectly complemented the flavors on offer. It truly felt like they cared about providing a memorable dining experience.

Of course, this level of excellence comes at a price. Manhattan Of La Jolla is not what you would call budget-friendly, but hey, who said great things come cheap? If you're looking for an appetizer experience that will make your wallet cry tears of joy (or maybe just tears), then this is the place for you.

In summary, Manhattan Of La Jolla offers expensive tasting food paired with excellent service in a welcoming atmosphere. So if you're ready to embark on a culinary journey that will leave you wanting more (and potentially lighter in the wallet), give Manhattan Of La Jolla a try. Your taste buds won't regret it!

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Beaumont's

Highlights
Great tapas
Friendly staff
Fun atmosphere
Great service
Amazing food

Let me start by saying that Beaumont's is a hidden gem when it comes to appetizers in LA Jolla. As soon as I walked through the door, I was greeted by a friendly staff who made me feel right at home. The atmosphere was lively and fun, with a touch of sophistication.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh boy, the tapas at Beaumont's are out of this world! Each bite was a burst of flavor that left me craving for more. From crispy calamari to mouthwatering sliders, every dish was prepared with finesse and creativity.

But what truly sets Beaumont's apart is their exceptional service. The waitstaff went above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was top-notch. They were knowledgeable about the menu and offered great recommendations based on my preferences.

I must mention that the presentation of each dish was stunning. It felt like a work of art on a plate. And let's not forget about the portion sizes - they were generous enough to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an unforgettable dining experience with an extensive selection of delectable tapas, Beaumont's is the place to be. The combination of great tapas, friendly staff, fun atmosphere, and amazing food make it one of the best spots for appetizers in LA Jolla. Don't miss out on this culinary delight!

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Catania

Highlights
Amazing flavors
Great view
Pleasant staff
Incredible lamb and swordfish
Flavorful pizza appetizer

As I stepped into Catania, I was immediately swept away by the amazing flavors that filled the air. The restaurant boasts a great view of the La Jolla coastline, allowing diners to indulge in both delicious food and breathtaking scenery.

The pleasant staff warmly greeted me and guided me to my table. Eager to sample their appetizers, I perused the menu and was instantly drawn to their lamb and swordfish options. Deciding to try both, I eagerly awaited their arrival.

When the dishes arrived, my taste buds were in for a treat! The lamb was perfectly seasoned and tender, with each bite melting in my mouth. The swordfish had a delicate flavor that complemented its flaky texture wonderfully. It's no wonder these dishes are considered Catania's specialties.

But let's not forget about their pizza appetizer – an unexpected surprise that left me wanting more. The crust was thin and crispy, providing the perfect base for a medley of flavorful toppings. Each bite was like a party in my mouth!

Overall, Catania is a must-visit for anyone searching for delectable appetizers in LA Jolla. With its amazing flavors, great view, and pleasant staff, it has certainly earned its place on the list of top appetizer spots in town. So go ahead and embark on your own culinary adventure at Catania – you won't be disappointed!

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Public House La Jolla

Highlights
Outdoor seating
Phenomenal burgers
Variety of beer styles
Friendly and prompt service
Excellent atmosphere

As I approached Public House La Jolla, I immediately noticed the inviting outdoor seating area. The sun was shining, the birds were chirping, and I couldn't wait to dig into some mouthwatering appetizers.

First on my list was their famous burgers. Let me tell you, these burgers were nothing short of phenomenal. The patty was perfectly cooked to a juicy medium-rare, and the combination of toppings created a flavor explosion in every bite. It's safe to say that even the pickiest burger connoisseur would be impressed.

But Public House La Jolla is not just about burgers. They also offer a variety of beer styles to pair with your appetizers. From refreshing lagers to hoppy IPAs, there's something for every beer lover. The knowledgeable staff even recommended a local craft brew that perfectly complemented my chosen appetizer.

Speaking of the staff, they were incredibly friendly and provided prompt service throughout my visit. Their enthusiasm for both the food and drink offerings added an extra layer of enjoyment to my experience.

The atmosphere at Public House La Jolla was excellent - a lively yet comfortable ambiance that made me feel right at home. Whether you're looking for a casual spot to enjoy some appetizers with friends or a place to unwind after work, this place fits the bill.

In conclusion, if you're searching for delectable appetizers in LA Jolla, look no further than Public House La Jolla. With its outdoor seating, phenomenal burgers, variety of beer styles, friendly service, and excellent atmosphere, it truly deserves its spot among the best in town. Don't just take my word for it though; go check it out yourself!

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George's at the Cove

Highlights
Amazing view of La Jolla Cove
Delicious food and drinks
Phenomenal service
Perfect location for special occasions
Attentive and courteous staff

Let me start by saying that the view at George's at the Cove is simply breathtaking. As I sat on the outdoor terrace, overlooking the magnificent La Jolla Cove, I couldn't help but feel like I was in a scene from a movie. It truly sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.

Now let's talk about the appetizers. Oh boy, where do I begin? The menu offers a wide array of options, each one more tempting than the last. From seafood to sliders, there's something to please every palate.

I started with their Ahi Poke Tacos, which were a delightful fusion of flavors. The perfectly seared Ahi tuna paired beautifully with the crisp wonton shells and tangy ponzu sauce. It was like a fiesta in my mouth!

Next up was their Truffle Fries. Now, let me tell you, these fries are not your average fries. They are crispy, golden perfection tossed with just the right amount of truffle oil and topped with grated Parmesan cheese. Trust me when I say that you won't be able to stop at just one bite.

To accompany my appetizers, I indulged in their craft cocktails which were expertly crafted and packed with flavor. The bartenders here truly know their stuff.

The service at George's at the Cove deserves special mention as well. The staff were attentive and courteous throughout my entire visit, making sure that everything was to my liking and offering great recommendations.

In conclusion, George's at the Cove is not only known for its amazing view but also for its delicious food and phenomenal service. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to some top-notch appetizers, this place is definitely worth a visit. Just make sure you bring your appetite!

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Duke's La Jolla

Highlights
Incredible food
Phenomenal value
Great views
Excellent service
Extensive beer list

Let's start with the incredible food. Duke's La Jolla knows how to tantalize your taste buds with their appetizers. From the moment I took my first bite, I knew I was in for a treat. The flavors were bold and perfectly balanced, leaving me craving for more.

But what surprised me the most was the phenomenal value. With such high-quality appetizers, one would expect a hefty price tag. However, Duke's La Jolla offers a great bang for your buck. You can indulge in delicious dishes without breaking the bank.

Now let's talk about the ambiance. As I sat on their outdoor patio, I couldn't help but admire the great views of the ocean and picturesque surroundings. It added a touch of serenity to my dining experience, making it even more enjoyable.

To top it all off, the service at Duke's La Jolla was nothing short of excellent. The staff was attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about their menu offerings. They made sure that every detail was taken care of and that my dining experience was unforgettable.

And let's not forget about their extensive beer list! Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast or simply looking to try something new, Duke's La Jolla has got you covered.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an appetizer experience that combines incredible food with phenomenal value and great views, look no further than Duke's La Jolla. Trust me when I say that you won't be disappointed - it truly is one of LA Jolla's hidden gems!

The Shack Bar & Grill

Highlights
Fantastic burgers
Great wings
Cool vibe
Kind bartenders
Fun spot to frequent

Upon entering The Shack Bar & Grill, I was immediately taken aback by its cool vibe. The dimly lit interior and rustic décor gave it a cozy yet trendy feel. As I made my way to the bar, I was greeted by some of the kindest bartenders around. Their friendly banter and knowledge of their craft instantly put me at ease.

Now, let's get down to business – the appetizers! The Shack Bar & Grill truly knows how to satisfy those pre-meal cravings. While they may be known for their fantastic burgers, their menu also boasts an impressive selection of finger-lickin' good appetizers.

First up, the wings. Oh boy, these were not your average wings. They were perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The flavors ranged from tangy BBQ to spicy buffalo, catering to all taste buds. Each bite was a burst of flavor that left me wanting more.

In addition to the wings, I also tried their loaded nachos – a mountain of cheesy goodness topped with fresh guacamole and salsa. It was like a fiesta in my mouth! The combination of textures and flavors was simply divine.

What sets The Shack Bar & Grill apart from other places is not just their food but also the overall experience. It's a fun spot to frequent with friends or even for a casual date night. They have live music on weekends that adds another layer of entertainment.

So if you're looking for a place with great appetizers, fantastic burgers, a cool vibe, and kind bartenders - make sure to check out The Shack Bar & Grill in LA Jolla. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!