LA Jolla's Best Lunch [Updated 2024]

With thirteen lunch spots reviewed under my belt, I feel confident in sharing my findings. Trust me, I've tried everything from fancy restaurants to hidden gems and casual cafes.

So grab your appetite and get ready for a lighthearted journey through the culinary delights of LA Jolla. From fresh seafood to mouthwatering burgers, this article will guide you towards the absolute best lunch spots in town.

Join me as we navigate through the flavors and uncover the true gems that make LA Jolla a food lover's paradise. Let's dig in!

The Cottage

Highlights
Incredible food
Gracious service
Beautiful atmosphere
Perfectly split meals
Outstanding employees

Walking into The Cottage, I was immediately struck by the beautiful atmosphere. The charming cottage-style building and the cozy outdoor patio made me feel like I had stumbled upon a hidden oasis in the heart of LA Jolla.

As I sat down at my table, I couldn't help but notice the gracious service provided by the attentive staff. They were knowledgeable about the menu and eager to recommend their favorite dishes, making me feel like a valued guest.

Now let's talk about the food. Oh boy, it was nothing short of incredible! From their signature crab cakes to their mouthwatering avocado toast, every bite was a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds. The portions were perfectly split, leaving me feeling satisfied but not overly stuffed.

One thing that truly stood out to me at The Cottage was their outstanding employees. They were warm, friendly, and genuinely seemed to love what they do. It's rare to find such a dedicated team who go above and beyond to ensure your dining experience is exceptional.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best lunch in LA Jolla, look no further than The Cottage. With its incredible food, gracious service, and beautiful atmosphere, it truly offers an unforgettable dining experience. So grab a friend or fly solo (like I did), and treat yourself to a lunch that will leave you with a smile on your face and a happy tummy!

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Brockton Villa

Highlights
Phenomenal Coast Toast
Friendly staff
Great lobster rolls
Amazing view

Let me start by saying that the Coast Toast at Brockton Villa is nothing short of a phenomenon. This delectable creation is a delightful twist on traditional French toast, topped with a heavenly blend of fresh berries and whipped cream. Each bite was like a symphony playing on my taste buds, leaving me in awe of the culinary mastery at hand.

But it wasn't just the food that left an impression on me; the staff at Brockton Villa were incredibly friendly and accommodating. From the moment I walked in, they made me feel like I was part of their oh-so-trendy LA Jolla family. They offered recommendations with genuine enthusiasm and catered to my every need without hesitation.

Now, let's talk about their lobster rolls. Oh boy, these were something else! The combination of succulent lobster meat nestled in a buttery toasted bun was simply divine. I could almost hear the ocean waves crashing as I savored each bite. It's safe to say that Brockton Villa knows how to elevate this classic dish to new heights.

And speaking of heights, let's not forget about the breathtaking view from their outdoor patio. With panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean stretching out before you, it's hard not to feel like you're dining in paradise itself. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely lunch or capturing envy-inducing Instagram shots, this view alone is worth the visit.

In conclusion, if you're searching for more than just your average lunch spot in LA Jolla, look no further than Brockton Villa. With its phenomenal Coast Toast, friendly staff, great lobster rolls, and amazing view, it truly stands out as one of the best lunch destinations in town. Don't miss out on this experience - your taste buds and Instagram feed will thank you!

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The Taco Stand

Highlights
Delicious tacos
Massive burritos
Affordable price
Indoor and outdoor seating
Fast service

Upon entering The Taco Stand, I was immediately greeted by the tantalizing aroma of sizzling meats and freshly made tortillas. My taste buds were already doing a little happy dance in anticipation. As I perused the menu, I couldn't help but notice the wide array of options available. Tacos galore! From classic favorites like carne asada and al pastor to more adventurous choices like grilled octopus or portobello mushroom, there was something for every palate.

I decided to go for their highly recommended carnitas taco and boy, oh boy, was it a flavor explosion! The succulent pork melted in my mouth, perfectly complemented by the tangy salsa verde and topped with crispy onions. Each bite was a symphony of textures and tastes that left me wanting more.

But wait, there's more! If you're feeling extra hungry (or just plain ambitious), The Taco Stand also offers massive burritos that are sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetite. These behemoths are stuffed to the brim with all sorts of goodies – rice, beans, cheese, your choice of meat – wrapped snugly in a warm tortilla blanket. It's like a delicious Mexican hug for your stomach!

What impressed me most about The Taco Stand was not only the quality of their food but also their affordability. In a place like LA Jolla where everything seems to come with an inflated price tag, finding a lunch spot that won't break the bank is truly a rare gem.

The restaurant itself has both indoor and outdoor seating options, perfect for enjoying your meal on a sunny day or seeking refuge from those occasional Southern California rain showers (yes, they do exist). And let's not forget about their fast service – no time wasted standing in line when you've got hunger pangs!

In conclusion, if you're craving some authentic Mexican street food without having to hop on a flight south of the border, The Taco Stand is your go-to spot. Their delicious tacos and massive burritos, combined with their affordable prices and fast service, make it a standout among the lunch options in LA Jolla. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this little slice of culinary heaven.

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Barbarella Restaurant & Bar

Highlights
LOVEDecor
Tender lamb
Vegetarian pasta
Wonderful staff
Great engagement

Upon entering Barbarella, I was immediately struck by the LOVEDecor. The modern and trendy ambiance created a vibrant and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant exuded an air of sophistication without feeling pretentious.

Now, let's talk about the food. I had the pleasure of trying their tender lamb dish, which was an absolute delight. Each bite melted in my mouth like butter, leaving me craving for more. The flavors were perfectly balanced, showcasing the chef's culinary prowess.

For those seeking a vegetarian option, their vegetarian pasta is a must-try. It was bursting with fresh vegetables that were cooked to perfection. The combination of flavors was both satisfying and refreshing.

One aspect that truly stood out during my visit was the staff at Barbarella. They were not only attentive and friendly but also genuinely passionate about providing exceptional service. Their knowledge of the menu and willingness to engage in conversation made my dining experience all the more enjoyable.

In conclusion, Barbarella Restaurant & Bar offers a memorable lunch experience in LA Jolla. From its captivating decor to its delectable dishes, this place has it all. So next time you find yourself in search of a great lunch spot, make sure to pay Barbarella a visit – you won't be disappointed!

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Shorehouse Kitchen

Highlights
Portion sizes are perfect
Best chicken sandwich ever
Crispy hash browns
Great flavors
Excellent service

Upon entering the restaurant, I was immediately struck by its cozy and relaxed atmosphere. The staff greeted me warmly and promptly seated me at a comfortable table. As I perused the menu, my eyes were drawn to their highlights section, which promised an unforgettable lunch experience.

Firstly, let's talk about portion sizes. At Shorehouse Kitchen, they truly understand that a good lunch should leave you feeling satisfied without making you feel like you need to be rolled out of the restaurant. The portion sizes here are perfect, striking that delicate balance between filling and overwhelming.

Now, let's get to the star of the show - their chicken sandwich. Oh boy, where do I even begin? This chicken sandwich is not just any ordinary chicken sandwich; it's the best chicken sandwich ever. The succulent grilled chicken breast was perfectly seasoned and nestled between two fluffy buns. Each bite exploded with flavor, leaving me craving for more.

But wait, there's more! The crispy hash browns served as a side were simply divine. Golden brown and expertly cooked, they added a delightful crunch to my meal.

Speaking of flavors, every dish at Shorehouse Kitchen bursts with deliciousness. From their fresh salads to their mouthwatering burgers, each item on their menu showcases great flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

Lastly, I must commend the staff for providing excellent service throughout my visit. They were attentive without being intrusive and ensured that every detail of my dining experience was taken care of.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best lunch in LA Jolla, look no further than Shorehouse Kitchen. With its perfect portion sizes, unforgettable chicken sandwich, crispy hash browns, great flavors in every dish and excellent service, this place is a gem that shouldn't be missed. Don't just take my word for it - go ahead and experience it yourself!

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The Spot La Jolla

Highlights
Delicious food
Great atmosphere
Incredible service
Family-friendly
Recommended dishes: fish tacos and garlic bread

Upon entering The Spot La Jolla, I was immediately greeted by a great atmosphere that perfectly balances being trendy and laid-back. The decor is modern and inviting, with stylish furniture and vibrant colors that create a welcoming ambiance.

I must say, the service at The Spot La Jolla is truly incredible. The staff members were attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu. They went above and beyond to ensure that my lunch experience was nothing short of perfection.

Now let's talk about the food because, after all, that's what we're here for! The menu at The Spot La Jolla offers a wide variety of options to satisfy any craving. From salads to sandwiches to seafood dishes, there's something for everyone. Delicious is an understatement when it comes to describing their food. Each bite was bursting with flavor and made with high-quality ingredients.

One dish that stood out to me was the fish tacos. The fish was perfectly cooked, flaky on the inside and crispy on the outside. It was topped with a tangy slaw and served in warm tortillas that added an extra level of deliciousness.

Another highlight of my dining experience at The Spot La Jolla was their mouthwatering garlic bread. It had just the right amount of garlic and butter, making each bite a heavenly delight.

What I love about this place is how family-friendly it is. Whether you're visiting with your little ones or having lunch with friends or colleagues, everyone will feel welcome here.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a lunch spot in LA Jolla that offers delicious food, a great atmosphere, incredible service, and caters to families as well as individuals seeking a memorable dining experience, then look no further than The Spot La Jolla. Trust me when I say it's worth every penny!

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Caroline's Seaside Cafe by Giuseppe

Highlights
Delicious food
Great views
Friendly staff
Chill atmosphere

Let me start by saying that Caroline's Seaside Cafe by Giuseppe is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of LA Jolla. From the moment I walked through the door, I knew I was in for a treat. The ambiance was relaxed and inviting, with a chill atmosphere that instantly put me at ease.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh my goodness, where do I even begin? The menu boasted an array of mouthwatering options that had my taste buds dancing with anticipation. I opted for their signature seafood linguine, and boy, was it a wise choice. Each bite was bursting with flavor and every ingredient seemed to harmoniously sing together like a well-rehearsed choir.

As if the delicious food wasn't enough to satisfy my appetite, the views from Caroline's Seaside Cafe were absolutely breathtaking. Situated right on the coast, I was treated to panoramic vistas of the sparkling ocean waves crashing against the shore. It truly felt like dining in paradise.

But what sets this place apart from others is its staff. The friendly and attentive team at Caroline's Seaside Cafe went above and beyond to ensure that my experience was nothing short of exceptional. Their warm smiles and genuine enthusiasm added an extra layer of delight to an already wonderful meal.

In conclusion, if you're looking for not only a delectable lunch but also an experience that will transport you to culinary heaven, look no further than Caroline's Seaside Cafe by Giuseppe. Trust me when I say that you won't be disappointed!

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Catania

Highlights
Wonderful quality
Delectable flavor
Excellent service
Elegant interior
Great view

Walking into Catania, I was immediately struck by the elegant interior that exuded a sense of sophistication and style. The sleek design and warm ambiance set the perfect backdrop for a memorable lunch experience.

As I perused the menu, I couldn't help but notice the wide array of options that catered to all palates. From seafood lovers to meat enthusiasts, Catania had something for everyone. I decided to go with their signature dish, the Seafood Linguine, as it seemed to be a crowd favorite.

When my plate arrived, I was blown away by the wonderful quality of the ingredients. The linguine was perfectly al dente, and each bite revealed an explosion of flavors from the fresh seafood. The combination of succulent shrimp, tender calamari, and plump mussels danced harmoniously in a tangy tomato sauce that left me craving more.

The attentive and friendly staff provided excellent service, ensuring that my glass remained filled and checking on me without being intrusive. Their knowledge of the menu was impressive, making recommendations based on my preferences and answering any questions I had.

To top it off, Catania boasted a stunning view of the La Jolla coastline. As I sat on their outdoor terrace savoring my meal, I couldn't help but feel like I was dining in paradise.

In conclusion, Catania exceeded my expectations with its delectable flavors, wonderful quality ingredients, excellent service, elegant interior design, and breathtaking view. It truly deserves its spot among LA Jolla's best lunch spots. So if you're looking for an unforgettable lunch experience in LA Jolla, make sure to give Catania a try!

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NINE-TEN Restaurant & Bar

Highlights
Exceptionally excellent food
Easygoing elegance ambiance
Phenomenal food and wine list
Great service from knowledgeable staff
Perfectly cooked and flavorful dishes

Let me start by saying that the food at NINE-TEN is nothing short of exceptionally excellent. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere that exuded an easygoing elegance. The restaurant's ambiance was the perfect blend of relaxed sophistication.

As a self-proclaimed food connoisseur, I was delighted to find that NINE-TEN not only offers a phenomenal selection of dishes but also an impressive wine list to complement them. The combination of their phenomenal food and wine made for a truly divine dining experience.

What impressed me even more was the level of service provided by the staff. They were knowledgeable, attentive, and went above and beyond to ensure that my lunch experience was nothing short of extraordinary. It's not every day that you encounter such exceptional service!

Now let's talk about the star of the show – the food itself. Each dish was meticulously prepared and flawlessly executed. From the first bite to the last, I could taste how much care and skill went into creating these culinary masterpieces. The flavors were perfectly balanced, and every ingredient shone through, creating a symphony of taste on my palate.

I must mention that all dishes were cooked to perfection, leaving me impressed with their attention to detail. The menu featured a variety of options, catering to different preferences and dietary restrictions.

In conclusion, if you're in LA Jolla and looking for the place to have an unforgettable lunch experience, look no further than NINE-TEN Restaurant & Bar. With its exceptional food, great service from knowledgeable staff, and easygoing elegance ambiance – it truly stands out as one of the best lunch spots in LA Jolla.

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Piazza 1909

Highlights
Cozy and welcoming atmosphere
Delicious and authentic food
Attention to detail in everything
Impeccable service
Beautifully designed restaurant

Walking into Piazza 1909, I was immediately struck by its cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The rustic decor combined with modern touches created a space that was both comfortable and stylish. It felt like stepping into a charming Italian trattoria.

But let's move on to the most important part – the food. And oh boy, did Piazza 1909 deliver! The menu boasted a selection of delicious and authentic Italian dishes that could make even nonna jealous. From the moment I took my first bite of their homemade pasta, I knew I was in for a treat.

What impressed me most about Piazza 1909 was their attention to detail. Every dish was beautifully presented, with just the right touch of garnish and color. They clearly take pride in creating an experience that not only satisfies your taste buds but also pleases the eye.

And let's not forget about the impeccable service. The staff at Piazza 1909 were friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. They made sure every need was met without being intrusive, allowing me to enjoy my meal without any interruptions.

Lastly, I have to mention the restaurant itself. It is beautifully designed, with an open kitchen that allows you to catch glimpses of the chefs in action. The ambiance is lively yet intimate, making it perfect for a lunch date or a casual gathering with friends.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an exceptional lunch experience in LA Jolla, look no further than Piazza 1909. With its cozy atmosphere, delicious food, attention to detail, impeccable service, and beautiful design – it truly deserves a spot on the list of best lunches in LA Jolla.

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Osteria Romantica

Highlights
Fantastic Italian food
Great atmosphere
Personable staff
Delicious pasta
Authentic and yummy

Let me tell you, my taste buds were in for a treat! Osteria Romantica truly lives up to its reputation as one of the best lunch spots in LA Jolla.

The moment I stepped into the restaurant, I was greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The rustic decor and soft lighting create a cozy ambiance that instantly transports you to Italy. It's like taking a mini vacation without leaving LA Jolla!

The staff at Osteria Romantica is not only knowledgeable but also incredibly personable. They made me feel right at home, providing top-notch service throughout my visit. Their friendly nature added an extra sprinkle of joy to my dining experience.

Now let's talk about the star of the show—the food! The menu features a wide selection of Italian dishes that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Every bite I took was like a symphony of flavors. The pasta dishes are out-of-this-world delicious, cooked perfectly al dente and coated in mouthwatering sauces.

I couldn't help but appreciate the authenticity of each dish. The chefs at Osteria Romantica know their craft well and bring traditional Italian cuisine to life on every plate. It's like Nonna snuck into the kitchen and sprinkled her magic.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an unforgettable lunch experience in LA Jolla, Osteria Romantica is where it's at. From the fantastic Italian food to the great atmosphere and personable staff, this place delivers on all fronts. Trust me when I say, you won't leave disappointed.

Duke's La Jolla

Highlights
Incredible food
Cool restaurant
Phenomenal value
Great views
Excellent service

Let me start by saying that the food at Duke's La Jolla is simply incredible. From the moment I took my first bite, I knew I was in for a treat. The flavors were so well-balanced and the presentation was like a work of art on my plate. Each dish was carefully crafted to perfection, leaving me wanting more.

Aside from the amazing food, Duke's has a really cool vibe. The restaurant is beautifully designed with a beachy atmosphere that transports you to a tropical paradise. The interior is decorated with surfboards and vintage photographs, giving it an authentic and laid-back feel.

Now let's talk about value because we all know how important it is to get bang for your buck. Well, at Duke's La Jolla, you get phenomenal value for your money. The portion sizes are generous and the prices are surprisingly reasonable considering the quality of the food. It's not often that you find such high-end dining without breaking the bank.

And let's not forget about the views! Duke's is situated right on the coast, offering breathtaking vistas of the ocean. Whether you choose to sit inside or outside on their spacious patio, you're guaranteed a visual feast alongside your culinary delights.

Last but certainly not least, the service at Duke's was top-notch. The staff was attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about every item on the menu. They went above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was nothing short of excellent.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an unforgettable lunch experience in LA Jolla, look no further than Duke's La Jolla. With its incredible food, cool ambiance, phenomenal value, great views, and excellent service, this place definitely deserves its spot among the best lunch spots in town.

Puesto La Jolla

Highlights
Delicious Mexican cuisine
Beautiful restaurant ambiance
Tasty tacos and drinks
Half off appetizers on Tuesdays
Friendly service

Upon entering Puesto La Jolla, I was immediately struck by the beautiful restaurant ambiance. The vibrant colors and modern decor created a lively atmosphere that was both inviting and visually appealing. It set the perfect stage for what turned out to be an unforgettable lunch experience.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show - the food! Puesto La Jolla serves up some seriously delicious Mexican cuisine. Their tacos are a work of art, with each bite bursting with flavor. From the tender grilled steak to the perfectly seasoned shrimp, every ingredient was carefully selected and expertly prepared.

As a self-proclaimed taco connoisseur, I appreciate when a restaurant goes above and beyond in their taco game. Puesto La Jolla definitely delivered on that front. But it doesn't stop there - their drinks were equally as impressive. The margaritas were refreshing and had just the right amount of kick to complement the meal.

One thing that particularly stood out to me was their Tuesday special of half off appetizers. Who doesn't love a good deal? It's like getting a discount on happiness! So, if you find yourself at Puesto La Jolla on a Tuesday, make sure to take advantage of this offer.

Lastly, I cannot forget to mention the friendly service we received during our visit. The staff went above and beyond to ensure our dining experience was enjoyable from start to finish.

In conclusion, if you're searching for an exceptional lunch spot in LA Jolla, look no further than Puesto La Jolla. With its delicious Mexican cuisine, beautiful ambiance, tasty tacos and drinks, irresistible deals on Tuesdays, and friendly service - it's truly hard to beat!