LA Jolla San Diego's Best Lunch [Updated 2025]

Hey there fellow foodies! As a born-and-raised local of LA Jolla San Diego, I consider myself quite the lunch aficionado.

Whether you're a tourist exploring this coastal gem or a fellow local in search of a delightful midday meal, I've got you covered. With my ample experience and unquenchable appetite, I've scoured through 13 different lunch spots to bring you the crème de la crème.

So, buckle up and get ready for a lighthearted gastronomic adventure as we uncover the absolute best lunch destinations in LA Jolla San Diego!

The Cottage

Highlights
Incredible food
Gracious and friendly service
Fresh and tasty dishes
Shady and comfy patio
Perfectly split cottage club

Walking into The Cottage, I was immediately struck by the charming and cozy atmosphere. The sunlit interior was adorned with beautiful flowers, giving it a warm and inviting feel. The staff greeted me with a sincere smile and I could tell right away that their service would be top-notch.

Now let's talk about the star of the show - the food. Oh my goodness, the food! Every bite was incredible. The menu featured an array of fresh and tasty dishes that catered to all palates. From savory omelettes to delectable sandwiches, there was something for everyone.

The service at The Cottage was truly remarkable. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that every customer felt welcome and well taken care of. They were gracious, friendly, and attentive without being overbearing.

One of my favorite aspects of this delightful eatery was the shady and comfy patio area. It provided a perfect spot to enjoy my lunch while soaking up the California sunshine. It's like they knew exactly what I needed - a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city.

And now, let's discuss the pièce de résistance - their perfectly split cottage club sandwich. Layers upon layers of flavorful turkey, crispy bacon, ripe tomatoes, lettuce, and creamy avocado were stacked between two slices of toasted bread. Each bite was an explosion of taste that left me yearning for more.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best lunch in LA Jolla San Diego, look no further than The Cottage. With its incredible food, gracious service, fresh dishes, shady patio, and perfectly split cottage club sandwich, it truly deserves its place on the list of must-visit eateries in town. Trust me when I say this is not just any ordinary lunch spot; it's an experience you won't want to miss out on!

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Brockton Villa

Highlights
Coast Toast
Amazing view
Friendly service
Delicious food

As soon as I approached Brockton Villa, the mesmerizing view of the coastline stole my breath away. It was like a postcard had come to life! The restaurant's location alone deserves an award for being the perfect spot to enjoy a scrumptious lunch.

I walked in and was instantly greeted by the warm smiles of the staff. The friendly service made me feel right at home, and their knowledge of the menu was impressive. They were more than happy to recommend their famous dish, the Coast Toast. Now, let me tell you, this is not your average toast! It's a delightful concoction of French toast topped with fresh berries and whipped cream that dances on your taste buds like a symphony.

The food arrived promptly, and I couldn't help but admire its presentation before taking my first bite. Each ingredient was artfully placed as if it were a masterpiece waiting to be devoured. And devour it I did! The combination of flavors burst in my mouth like fireworks on the Fourth of July.

Throughout my meal, I couldn't resist stealing glances at the breathtaking view from their patio. The ocean waves crashing against the shore created a soothing ambiance that only enhanced my dining experience.

In conclusion, Brockton Villa has rightfully earned its place among the best lunch spots in LA Jolla San Diego. With its stunning views, friendly service, and delectable dishes like the Coast Toast, it's an absolute gem worth visiting again and again. Don't miss out on this culinary adventure by the coast!

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Barbarella Restaurant & Bar

Highlights
Decorated for Valentines Day
Tender lamb
Vegetarian pasta tossed in olive oil
Wonderful staff
Great engagement and friendly atmosphere

As I walked into Barbarella, I couldn't help but notice the festive atmosphere. The restaurant was beautifully decorated for Valentine's Day, with hearts and flowers adorning every corner. It was a playful touch that immediately put a smile on my face.

Now let's talk about the food. Oh, the food! I ordered their tender lamb dish, and let me tell you, it was a flavor explosion in my mouth. The lamb practically melted in my mouth with each bite, and the accompanying sauce added a delightful tanginess that elevated the dish to new heights.

For those who prefer vegetarian options (or just want to mix things up), Barbarella offers a vegetarian pasta tossed in olive oil. This dish was a light and refreshing option, packed with fresh vegetables and herbs. The combination of flavors was simply divine.

But what truly sets Barbarella apart is their staff. From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed and taken care of. The waitstaff were attentive, knowledgeable about the menu, and had an infectious enthusiasm that created a positive and engaging atmosphere throughout my entire dining experience.

In conclusion, if you're looking for not only great food but also a wonderful staff and a friendly atmosphere, look no further than Barbarella Restaurant & Bar. Whether you're celebrating Valentine's Day or simply looking for an outstanding lunch spot in LA Jolla San Diego, this place has it all. So go ahead and treat yourself – you won't be disappointed!

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The Taco Stand

Highlights
Best mar y tierra burrito
Friendly and helpful staff
Wide variety of taco options
Quick service for mistakes
Delicious churros

Let me start by saying that The Taco Stand is not your average taco joint. It's a culinary oasis where flavor and creativity collide to create an unforgettable lunch experience.

As soon as I walked through the door, I was greeted by the aroma of sizzling meat and freshly made tortillas. The staff, with their warm smiles and helpful attitude, immediately made me feel at home. They were like culinary superheroes, ready to guide me through a menu filled with mouthwatering options.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the mar y tierra burrito. This burrito is a masterpiece, combining tender grilled steak and succulent shrimp in perfect harmony. Each bite was a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds. It was so good that I couldn't help but do a little happy dance right there at my table.

But The Taco Stand isn't just about burritos; their taco selection is out of this world. From classics like carne asada to innovative options like crispy shrimp, they have something to satisfy every craving.

What impressed me most about The Taco Stand was their quick service when it came to rectifying mistakes. Mistakes happen, even in the best kitchens, but The Taco Stand handled them with grace and speed. Within minutes, a corrected order was placed in front of me - no questions asked.

To end my lunch on a sweet note, I indulged in their heavenly churros. These golden sticks of deliciousness were perfectly crispy on the outside and delightfully fluffy on the inside. Dipped in rich chocolate sauce, they were an absolute treat for my taste buds.

Overall, my experience at The Taco Stand was nothing short of extraordinary. With its friendly staff, diverse menu, and mouthwatering dishes, it truly deserves its place among the best lunch spots in LA Jolla San Diego. So go ahead and indulge in some taco greatness - your taste buds will thank you!

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Shorehouse Kitchen

Highlights
Perfect portion sizes
Best chicken sandwich
Delicious French toast
Great flavors
Excellent service

Upon entering Shorehouse Kitchen, I was immediately greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The staff was incredibly friendly and provided excellent service throughout my entire visit. As an avid lunch enthusiast, I was pleased to find that the portion sizes were absolutely perfect – not too overwhelming, but certainly satisfying.

Now let's talk about the food because, oh boy, it was a taste sensation! The chicken sandwich at Shorehouse Kitchen is in a league of its own. Tender, juicy chicken nestled between two perfectly toasted buns, accompanied by fresh lettuce and tomatoes. Each bite was a harmonious symphony of flavors that left me wanting more.

But wait, there's more! The French toast at Shorehouse Kitchen deserves a standing ovation. It was light and fluffy with just the right amount of sweetness. Topped off with a generous helping of fresh berries and powdered sugar, each bite transported me to brunch heaven.

The attention to detail in every dish is evident. From the perfectly seasoned fries to the refreshing salads bursting with flavor, Shorehouse Kitchen truly knows how to create exceptional dishes that cater to all taste buds.

I cannot stress enough how impressed I was with the overall experience at Shorehouse Kitchen. The combination of great flavors, impeccable service, and delightful ambiance make this gem a must-visit for anyone seeking the best lunch in LA Jolla San Diego.

So next time you're craving a memorable lunch experience, head on over to Shorehouse Kitchen – it'll leave you feeling satisfied and eager for your next visit!

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NINE-TEN Restaurant & Bar

Highlights
Exceptionally excellent food
Easygoing elegance ambiance
Phenomenal food and wine list
Great service and knowledgeable staff
Beautiful presentation and amazing flavors

As I walked into NINE-TEN Restaurant & Bar, I was immediately struck by its easygoing elegance ambiance. The atmosphere was refined, yet relaxed, making it the perfect place for a leisurely lunch.

Let's talk about the food. Oh my goodness! The dishes served here are nothing short of exceptionally excellent. Each plate that arrived at my table was a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with amazing flavors. It was like a symphony in my mouth with every bite.

The menu at NINE-TEN is a masterpiece in itself, offering a variety of options to satisfy even the most discerning palate. And don't get me started on their wine list. It's truly phenomenal! The knowledgeable staff was more than happy to recommend the perfect pairing for each dish.

Speaking of the staff, they were absolutely fantastic! Their service was top-notch, attentive without being intrusive. They were well-versed in all aspects of the menu and were able to provide detailed descriptions of each dish.

Whether you're looking for a place to impress your date or simply want to indulge in some exquisite cuisine, NINE-TEN Restaurant & Bar is hands down one of the best options in LA Jolla San Diego for lunch. With its beautiful presentation, phenomenal food, and impeccable service, this place truly lives up to its reputation as one of the finest establishments in town.

So next time you find yourself craving an unforgettable lunch experience, be sure to make your way over to NINE-TEN Restaurant & Bar. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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Catania

Highlights
Wonderful food
Excellent service
Elegant interior design
Reasonably priced
Fresh and crunchy dishes

First of all, let me just say that the food at Catania is nothing short of wonderful. From the moment I took my first bite, I knew I was in for a lunchtime treat. The flavors were so exquisite and perfectly balanced, it was like a symphony playing on my taste buds.

Not only was the food superb, but the service was also top-notch. The staff at Catania made me feel like a VIP from the moment I walked through the door. They were attentive, knowledgeable, and always ready with a recommendation or a friendly smile.

Speaking of walking through the door, let's talk about the interior design at Catania. It's truly something to behold. With its elegant decor and stylish furnishings, you'll feel like you've stepped into a luxurious Italian villa. It's the perfect setting for a leisurely lunch or an intimate gathering with friends.

Now, let's get down to business. One thing that really impressed me about Catania was its reasonable prices. You might expect a place with such high-quality food and service to break the bank, but that's not the case here. You can enjoy a delicious meal without emptying your wallet.

And last but not least, let's talk about the dishes themselves. Each one was crafted with care and attention to detail. Every bite was bursting with fresh flavors and satisfying crunchiness.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an unforgettable lunch experience in LA Jolla San Diego, look no further than Catania. With its wonderful food, excellent service, elegant interior design, reasonable prices, and fresh and crunchy dishes – it truly deserves its spot as one of the best lunch spots in town

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Piazza 1909

Highlights
Cozy atmosphere
Delicious food
Attentive service
Beautifully designed restaurant
Safe and secure environment

Piazza 1909, oh how you stole my heart with your cozy atmosphere and delectable dishes. As I stepped into this beautifully designed restaurant, I was immediately transported to the streets of Italy. The warm and inviting ambiance made me want to linger for hours.

But let's get down to the main event - the food! Oh boy, did Piazza 1909 deliver. Each bite was a symphony of flavors that danced on my palate. From their mouthwatering pastas to their heavenly pizzas, it was clear that they take pride in serving only the finest ingredients. My taste buds were singing an opera!

Not only was the food exceptional, but the service truly stood out. The staff at Piazza 1909 were attentive and knowledgeable, going above and beyond to ensure that every aspect of my dining experience was perfect. They even accommodated my dietary restrictions with grace and creativity.

I must also mention that during these uncertain times, Piazza 1909 provided a safe and secure environment. Their commitment to following health protocols gave me peace of mind as I indulged in their culinary delights.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a lunch spot that will transport you to Italy without having to hop on a plane, look no further than Piazza 1909. With its cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and attentive service, it's truly a gem in LA Jolla San Diego. Buon appetito!

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Osteria Romantica

Highlights
Fantastic Italian food
Great atmosphere
Personable and attentive staff
Delicious and perfectly cooked pasta
Cute and delicious place to eat

Walking into Osteria Romantica, I immediately felt like I was transported to a charming trattoria in the heart of Italy. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with soft lighting and rustic decor that made me want to settle in for a long and leisurely lunch.

The staff at Osteria Romantica were not only personable but also incredibly attentive. They were knowledgeable about the menu, offering recommendations and answering all my questions with a genuine enthusiasm that made me feel right at home.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the food. Oh boy, was it fantastic! The Italian cuisine served at Osteria Romantica was nothing short of extraordinary. Each dish was crafted with precision and care, resulting in flavors that danced on my palate.

The pasta dishes were truly works of art. From the delicious lasagna layered with rich tomato sauce and creamy béchamel to the perfectly cooked spaghetti carbonara, every bite was a taste sensation. The pasta itself had just the right amount of chewiness, making each forkful a joy to savor.

Not only did Osteria Romantica excel in flavor, but they also excelled in presentation. Each plate looked like it could be showcased in an art gallery before being devoured by hungry patrons.

If you're looking for a cute and delicious place to enjoy lunch in LA Jolla San Diego, look no further than Osteria Romantica. With its fantastic Italian food, great atmosphere, and personable staff, this establishment truly deserves its spot among the best lunches in town. So go ahead and indulge yourself – your taste buds will thank you!

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Urban Plates

Highlights
Fresh and delicious
Clean and welcoming
Fair prices
Great serving size
Pleasant atmosphere

Walking through the doors of Urban Plates, I was immediately struck by the clean and welcoming atmosphere. The modern décor and open kitchen added an extra touch of sophistication to the dining experience. As a self-proclaimed food connoisseur, I couldn't wait to delve into their lunch offerings.

The menu boasted a wide variety of options, with plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free choices available. After much contemplation, I settled on the herb-grilled steak with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts. It did not disappoint! The steak was cooked to perfection, tender and juicy with just the right amount of seasoning. The Brussels sprouts were roasted to crispy perfection, adding a delightful crunch to each bite.

What truly impressed me about Urban Plates was their commitment to fresh ingredients. Each dish was bursting with flavor and showcased the natural richness of the produce. It's evident that they prioritize quality in every aspect of their menu.

The portions at Urban Plates are generous without being overwhelming – perfect for those looking for a satisfying lunch without feeling like they need a post-meal nap. And don't get me started on the prices! They are more than fair for what you receive – a high-quality meal that won't break the bank.

As I savored each mouthful in this delightful establishment, I couldn't help but appreciate the pleasant atmosphere surrounding me. The staff members were attentive and friendly, adding to the overall enjoyment of my visit.

In conclusion, Urban Plates is undoubtedly one of LA Jolla San Diego's best lunch spots. With their fresh ingredients, delicious flavors, fair prices, and pleasant atmosphere, it's no wonder locals flock here daily for their midday meals. So go ahead and treat yourself to an extraordinary lunch at Urban Plates - your taste buds will thank you!

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Duke's La Jolla

Highlights
Incredible food
Great views
Phenomenal value
Fresh and tasty
Excellent service

As soon as I walked into Duke's La Jolla, I knew I was in for a treat. The atmosphere was lively yet relaxed, with stunning ocean views giving the place an undeniable edge. Let me tell you, this restaurant is not just a feast for your taste buds, but also for your eyes!

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh boy, where do I even begin? The menu at Duke's La Jolla offers an array of options that will make any food lover weak at the knees. From fresh seafood to mouthwatering steaks, there is something to please every palate. Every dish was bursting with flavor and beautifully presented - a true culinary masterpiece!

What impressed me the most was the exceptional value for money. Despite being located in such a prime location, Duke's manages to offer phenomenal value without compromising on quality or taste. It's like getting a first-class meal at economy prices - a rare gem indeed.

The service at Duke's La Jolla deserves a special mention too. The staff were attentive, knowledgeable, and had just the right amount of charm. They made me feel like royalty throughout my dining experience.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best lunch in LA Jolla San Diego that combines incredible food, great views, phenomenal value, freshness and tastiness all served with excellent service - look no further than Duke's La Jolla. Trust me when I say it will leave you wanting more!

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Puesto La Jolla

Highlights
Delicious vegetarian bowls
Flavorful vegetarian taquitos
Beautiful atmosphere
Tasty drinks

As soon as I stepped into Puesto La Jolla, I was greeted by a vibrant and lively atmosphere. The restaurant's beautiful decor, with its colorful murals and modern furnishings, immediately caught my attention. It felt like stepping into a fiesta-filled paradise.

Now, let's dive into the main event - the food! As a vegetarian, I was pleasantly surprised by the variety and creativity of their menu. The vegetarian bowls were an absolute delight for my taste buds. Bursting with flavors from fresh ingredients like avocado, roasted corn, and black beans, each bite was a distinct explosion of deliciousness. My taste buds were dancing a salsa!

But wait, there's more! The vegetarian taquitos were another highlight of my meal. These crispy little wonders were filled with savory goodness and served with tangy salsa verde on the side. Each bite offered a delightful blend of textures that left me wanting more.

To complement these delectable dishes, Puesto La Jolla also offers an array of tasty drinks. From refreshing fruit-infused waters to perfectly crafted margaritas, they have something to quench every thirst.

What truly sets Puesto La Jolla apart is their attention to detail in both presentation and flavor. Each dish is beautifully plated, making it almost too pretty to eat (almost!). And when you do take that first bite, you're rewarded with a burst of flavors that will leave you wanting to try everything on the menu.

So if you find yourself in LA Jolla San Diego and in need of a fantastic lunch spot, head over to Puesto La Jolla. With its delicious vegetarian options, beautiful atmosphere, and mouthwatering selection of drinks, it definitely deserves its place on the list of best lunches in LA Jolla San Diego. ¡Buen provecho!

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George's at the Cove

Highlights
Amazing View
Delicious Food
Phenomenal Service
Reasonable Parking
Attentive Staff

Walking into George's at the Cove, I was immediately struck by the amazing view of the Pacific Ocean. As I gazed out at the sparkling waves crashing against the shore, I couldn't help but feel a sense of tranquility and awe. It truly is a lunch spot with a million-dollar view.

But let's talk about the food because that's what we're here for. The menu at George's is a culinary masterpiece, offering an array of options to satisfy even the most discerning palate. From fresh seafood dishes to flavorful vegetarian options, there is something for everyone.

I decided to start my lunch with their famous clam chowder. Oh boy, it was like tasting a bowl of liquid gold! The creamy texture and rich flavors danced on my taste buds, making me savor every spoonful.

For my main course, I opted for their grilled salmon with lemon butter sauce. The fish was perfectly cooked, flaky yet moist, and bursting with flavor. Accompanied by seasonal vegetables and a side of crispy roasted potatoes, it was a symphony of taste on my plate.

What truly sets George's apart from other lunch spots in LA Jolla San Diego is their phenomenal service. The staff were attentive and knowledgeable about the menu, providing excellent recommendations tailored to my preferences.

Another pleasant surprise was finding reasonable parking nearby. Let's be honest; parking in LA Jolla can sometimes be as elusive as finding Bigfoot riding a unicorn. But fear not! George's offers convenient parking options that won't break your bank or your sanity.

Overall, my experience at George's at the Cove exceeded all expectations. With its breathtaking view, delicious food, attentive staff, and reasonable parking options – this place has it all! Whether you're looking for an intimate lunch date or simply want to treat yourself to an exceptional dining experience while enjoying stunning ocean views – George's at the Cove is a must-visit.

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