The Absolute Best Lunch in Del Mar [Updated 2024]

In fact, I've tried out seven different spots and can safely say that I have some definite favorites! From beachfront dining to hidden gems, there are a variety of fantastic places to check out for lunch in this coastal town.

So sit back, relax, and let me take you through my top picks for the best lunch in Del Mar. You won't want to miss these mouthwatering options!

Pacifica Del Mar

From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by a friendly staff and an atmosphere that was both inviting and sophisticated. The menu had a wide variety of dishes, ranging from seafood to steak, which made it hard to choose just one dish. However, I decided to go with the ahi tuna poke bowl, which was a wise choice since it was fresh, flavorful and left me feeling satisfied.

What's more? The view of the ocean from my table was simply breathtaking, making me feel like I was on a luxury vacation rather than just having lunch.

Although Pacifica Del Mar is not for those on a tight budget, it's definitely worth the price for the quality of food, service and ambiance you get. So if you're looking for a place to enjoy some delicious food while taking in stunning views, then Pacifica Del Mar should be at the top of your list!

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Sbicca

The atmosphere was inviting and the service was impeccable. I ordered the pan-seared salmon which was cooked to perfection and paired with a delicious side salad. The presentation of the dish was stunning, almost too good to eat, but I managed to dig in anyway. The flavors were balanced and left me feeling satisfied without being overly stuffed. Overall, Sbicca is a great spot for a refined lunch experience.

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Zel's Del Mar

The atmosphere was inviting and the staff was incredibly welcoming. I ordered the famous pastrami sandwich which was piled high with deliciously cured meat and served on rye bread that was toasted to perfection. The sandwich was accompanied by a side of crispy french fries, and let me tell you, these fries were the perfect combination of crunchy and fluffy. Overall, I had a delightful experience at Zel's Del Mar and would highly recommend it to anyone who wants to indulge in a mouth-watering lunch!

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Beeside Balcony

The atmosphere of the place is magnificent, with a stunning view of the ocean from their balcony. The menu is quite eclectic and offers an array of delicious options, but the standout dish was definitely their lobster risotto. It's so good that I started to think that maybe lobsters should be worried about being over-harvested by their restaurant! Overall, Beeside Balcony is a must-visit for anyone searching for a delectable lunch experience with an exquisite oceanic view.

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Il Fornaio Del Mar

Upon entering the restaurant, I was greeted by a delightful aroma of freshly baked bread. The menu was filled with an array of Italian dishes that made me feel like I was back in Italy. I ordered their penne alla vodka and it was cooked to perfection - al dente pasta smothered in a creamy tomato sauce with just the right amount of spice. The service was impeccable and the ambiance was inviting. Although it's not the most affordable place for lunch, it's definitely worth the splurge for a special occasion or a treat yourself moment.

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Del Mar Pizza

The moment I stepped into the restaurant, the aroma of freshly baked pizza filled my nostrils. As an avid pizza lover, I was impressed by their wide selection of delicious toppings and crust options. I ordered a classic Margherita with extra basil, and boy was it a treat! The cheese was perfectly melted, the tomato sauce had just the right amount of tanginess, and the crust was crispy on the outside yet soft and chewy on the inside.

What sets Del Mar Pizza apart from other pizzerias is their commitment to using only high-quality ingredients. They source their produce locally and use fresh herbs for seasoning. And if you're not in the mood for pizza, they have a great selection of salads and sandwiches too!

Overall, if you're looking for a satisfying lunch that won't break the bank, Del Mar Pizza is definitely worth checking out. Just make sure to save room for dessert because their tiramisu is out of this world!

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En Fuego Cantina & Grill

Upon entering, the atmosphere was lively with a funky decor that made me feel like I was at a beach party. The menu had a variety of options ranging from tacos to burgers to salads, making it difficult to choose just one dish.

I ended up going with the grilled shrimp tacos and boy were they delicious! The shrimp were cooked to perfection and the toppings added an explosion of flavor in my mouth. I also appreciated the homemade tortillas that were warm and soft.

To wash it down, I ordered a margarita which added to the overall experience. The service was exceptional, with the staff being attentive and friendly throughout my visit.

Overall, En Fuego Cantina & Grill is definitely worth checking out if you're in Del Mar. It's perfect for those who want to enjoy tasty food in a fun atmosphere.

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