LA Jolla's Best Salads [Updated 2025]

LA Jolla's Best Salads [Updated 2025]
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Being a self-proclaimed salad connoisseur, I've tried them all - from the fancy new hotspots to the hidden gems. I can't deny my love for a good salad, and with so many options in La Jolla, it's hard not to be on the hunt for the best of the best.

So, after hours of indulging in greens and dressings, I'm excited to share my top picks for the best salads in La Jolla. Whether you're a health enthusiast or just looking for something refreshing, these options won't disappoint.


Mary's Gourmet Salads

Mary's Gourmet Salads
🗺️ 723 Pearl St, La Jolla, CA 92037
☎️ 858-703-0808
🌐 Website
Sunday: 12–7 PM
Monday: 11 AM–7 PM
Tuesday: 11 AM–7 PM
Wednesday: 11 AM–7 PM
Thursday: 11 AM–7 PM
Friday: 11 AM–7 PM
Saturday: 11 AM–7 PM
Highlights
Delicious salads
Vegan and gluten-free options
Friendly and helpful employees

First off, I must say that I was completely blown away by the variety of delicious salads on their menu. From the classic Caesar salad to the creative and unique vegan options, there's something for everyone. And speaking of vegan, if you're following a plant-based diet or have gluten sensitivities, this is the place for you! They seriously have some of the best vegan and gluten-free options in LA Jolla.

What really stood out to me though was their exceptional customer service. The employees were so friendly and helpful, making sure that each customer was satisfied with their order. They even offered suggestions on what dressings would pair well with certain salads.

The atmosphere of Mary's Gourmet Salads is also noteworthy. It's clean, modern, and has a relaxed vibe which makes it an ideal spot for a healthy lunch or dinner break.

All in all, I highly recommend checking out Mary's Gourmet Salads if you're in LA Jolla. With their delicious salads, vegan and gluten-free options, friendly employees, and chill atmosphere, it's definitely one of my top picks for the best salads in town!

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Mendocino Farms

Mendocino Farms
🗺️ 8795 Villa La Jolla Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037
☎️ 858-731-8130
🌐 Website
Sunday: 11 AM–9 PM
Monday: 11 AM–9 PM
Tuesday: 11 AM–9 PM
Wednesday: 11 AM–9 PM
Thursday: 11 AM–9 PM
Friday: 11 AM–9 PM
Saturday: 11 AM–9 PM
Highlights
Incredible salads with great flavors
Large portions and decent prices
Extremely nice staff
Attention to detail in sandwiches
Delicious "Not so Fried Chicken" sandwich

Firstly, I was impressed by the incredible salads with great flavors. The ingredients were fresh and colorful, making each salad a masterpiece on its own. The portions were generous and the prices were decent, so it's definitely worth every penny.

The staff at Mendocino Farms was extremely nice and welcoming, which added to the overall experience. Their attention to detail in making sandwiches was also noteworthy. Each ingredient was placed perfectly, making sure that none of them overwhelmed the others.

I also tried their "Not so Fried Chicken" sandwich and I must say, it lived up to its name. The chicken was crispy on the outside yet tender on the inside, without any greasy feel. It blended well with other ingredients like lettuce and tomato which made it even more mouth-watering.

Overall, Mendocino Farms is a great spot for anyone who enjoys fresh salads and delicious sandwiches with a fun vibe. Next time you're in LA Jolla area be sure to stop by Mendocino Farms for an awesome meal!

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Wheat & Water

Wheat & Water
🗺️ 5737 La Jolla Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037
☎️ 858-291-8690
🌐 Website
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 4–9 PM
Tuesday: 4–9 PM
Wednesday: 4–9 PM
Thursday: 4–10 PM
Friday: 12–11 PM
Saturday: 12–10 PM
Highlights
Good pizza
Chill staff
Cozy ambiance
Tasty chimichurri shrimp
No wait to sit down

First off, let me just say that while Wheat & Water is known for their delicious pizza, their salads are not to be overlooked! As I perused the menu, one salad caught my eye: the Chimichurri Shrimp Salad.

Let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The shrimp were cooked to perfection and seasoned with just the right amount of spice. The bed of greens was fresh and crisp, and the addition of avocado made it even better. And can we talk about the chimichurri dressing? It was tangy and flavorful, without overpowering the other ingredients.

But enough about the salad - let's talk about the atmosphere. I loved how cozy and intimate Wheat & Water felt. It's perfect for a date night or a casual dinner with friends. Plus, the staff was incredibly chill and welcoming - they made us feel right at home.

Oh, and did I mention that there was no wait to sit down? As someone who hates waiting in lines, this was a huge plus for me.

Overall, I highly recommend checking out Wheat & Water if you're in LA Jolla. And don't forget to try their salads - they're definitely worth it!

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Deli-Icious

Deli-Icious
🗺️ 1237 Prospect St UNIT J, La Jolla, CA 92037
☎️ 858-456-6235
🌐 Website
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 7:30 AM–4 PM
Tuesday: 7:30 AM–4 PM
Wednesday: 7:30 AM–4 PM
Thursday: 7:30 AM–4 PM
Friday: 7:30 AM–4 PM
Saturday: 10 AM–4 PM
Highlights
Local business
Great pastrami sandwich
Generous serving sizes

First and foremost, it's important to note that Deli-Icious is a local business, and I'm always happy to support the community. But more importantly, their salads are top-notch! While they're known for their great pastrami sandwiches (which I couldn't resist trying), their salads are just as impressive.

I ordered the Cobb salad, which was loaded with fresh greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, crispy bacon bits, and perfectly boiled eggs. But what really impressed me was the generous serving size - it was definitely enough for two meals!

The ingredients were all high-quality and clearly very fresh. Each bite was bursting with flavor, and I particularly appreciated the variety of textures in each forkful.

While Deli-Icious is perhaps best known for their pastrami sandwich (and rightfully so), they definitely shouldn't be overlooked when it comes to salads. If you're looking for a filling and delicious meal in LA Jolla, Deli-Icious is definitely worth checking out!

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Rubicon Deli

Rubicon Deli
🗺️ 4130 La Jolla Village Dr #104, La Jolla, CA 92037
☎️ 858-877-9911
🌐 Website
Sunday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
Monday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
Tuesday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
Wednesday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
Thursday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
Friday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
Saturday: 10 AM–7:30 PM
Highlights
Delicious sandwiches
Homemade chips are bomb
Friendly and fast staff
Highly recommended
Must try place

First and foremost, I have to say that their salads are a hidden gem among their already famous sandwiches. I tried their "Rubicon Salad" which was a mix of organic greens, avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and grilled chicken topped with balsamic vinaigrette dressing. Every bite had the perfect balance of flavors and textures - the juicy tomatoes and creamy avocado paired perfectly with the tangy dressing.

But let's talk about those homemade chips for a second. They were absolutely bomb! Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they were perfectly seasoned with just the right amount of salt. I couldn't stop munching on them even after finishing my salad.

The staff at Rubicon Deli were not only friendly, but they also provided fast service. They were knowledgeable about their menu and helped me choose the best salad option based on my preferences.

Overall, Rubicon Deli is a highly recommended spot in LA Jolla for both sandwiches AND salads. It's definitely a must-try place if you're looking for fresh ingredients and delicious flavors. Don't forget to try their homemade chips too - you won't regret it!

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Trilogy Sanctuary

Trilogy Sanctuary
🗺️ Rooftop & Level 3, 7650 Girard Ave Suite 400, La Jolla, CA 92037
☎️ 858-633-3893
🌐 Website
Sunday: 8 AM–9 PM
Monday: 8 AM–9 PM
Tuesday: 8 AM–9 PM
Wednesday: 8 AM–9 PM
Thursday: 8 AM–9 PM
Friday: 8 AM–9 PM
Saturday: 8 AM–9 PM
Highlights
Rooftop Terrace
Organic, plant-based, gluten-free
Creative events and Full Moon Parties
Delicious vegan flavors and textures

Firstly, let me tell you about the ambiance of this place. Trilogy Sanctuary has a beautiful rooftop terrace with stunning views of the ocean that will take your breath away. It's a perfect spot to enjoy your meal while soaking up some sun and fresh air.

Now, let's talk about the salads. As a health-conscious person, I was delighted to find out that all their dishes are organic, plant-based, and gluten-free. The creativity in their salads is impressive! Each dish has unique combinations of ingredients that result in delicious vegan flavors and textures that even non-vegans would love!

But what makes Trilogy Sanctuary stand out is its commitment to hosting creative events and Full Moon Parties. Imagine enjoying a delicious salad while surrounded by like-minded people under the magical full moon? Sounds like an unforgettable experience!

In summary, if you're looking for a healthy yet flavorful salad option in LA Jolla with an amazing ambiance, Trilogy Sanctuary should definitely be on your list!

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The Cottage

The Cottage
🗺️ 7702 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037
☎️ 858-454-8409
🌐 Website
Sunday: 7:30 AM–3 PM
Monday: 7:30 AM–3 PM
Tuesday: 7:30 AM–3 PM
Wednesday: 7:30 AM–3 PM
Thursday: 7:30 AM–3 PM
Friday: 7:30 AM–4 PM
Saturday: 7:30 AM–4 PM
Highlights
Amazing food
Best scones with jelly
Incredible brunch spot
Tasty drinks and dishes
Perfect location near beach

First of all, let me tell you that this place is not just for brunch lovers! The Cottage has a wide selection of amazing salads that will leave you craving more. From their classic Cobb salad to the refreshing Grilled Chicken and Mango Salad, they have something for every taste bud.

But don't worry, the salads are not the only reason to visit The Cottage. Let's talk about their famous scones with jelly! They are simply the best I've ever had. I could eat them all day long...if only my stomach would allow it!

As if the food wasn't enough, The Cottage offers a beautiful and cozy atmosphere that makes it perfect for a casual lunch or a romantic dinner. And if you're looking for a spot close to the beach, this is your place! You can enjoy your meal and then take a nice walk by the ocean.

Finally, let's not forget about their drinks and other dishes. Everything is so tasty that you won't know what to order first! But trust me, it's worth trying as much as possible.

In summary, if you're looking for an incredible brunch spot or just want to enjoy some amazing salads in LA Jolla, The Cottage should be at the top of your list.

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Cove House

Cove House
🗺️ 8030 Girard Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037
☎️ 858-999-0034
🌐 Website
Sunday: 9 AM–6 PM
Monday: 9 AM–6 PM
Tuesday: 9 AM–6 PM
Wednesday: 9 AM–6 PM
Thursday: 9 AM–6 PM
Friday: 9 AM–6 PM
Saturday: 9 AM–6 PM
Highlights
Great outdoor seating with views
Delicious Stone Crab Blat
Beach house vibe and decor
Spectacular view from patio
Tasty Happy Hour food and drinks

First off, the outdoor seating at Cove House is spectacular. With views overlooking the beach, it's hard not to feel relaxed and refreshed while enjoying your meal. Speaking of meals, I highly suggest trying their Stone Crab Blat salad. The combination of succulent crab meat with creamy avocado and crispy bacon is a match made in heaven.

As for the atmosphere, Cove House has a charming beach house vibe that makes you feel like you're on vacation. The decor is tastefully done and adds to the overall experience. And did I mention the view from the patio? It's breathtaking!

If you're looking for a more casual dining experience, their happy hour menu is definitely worth checking out. Not only are the food and drinks tasty, but they won't break the bank either.

Overall, Cove House is a great spot to visit if you're in search of delicious salads with a stunning view. So grab your shades and head on over!

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The Spot La Jolla

The Spot La Jolla
🗺️ 1005 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037
☎️ 858-459-0800
🌐 Website
Sunday: 11 AM–2 AM
Monday: 11 AM–2 AM
Tuesday: 11 AM–2 AM
Wednesday: 11 AM–2 AM
Thursday: 11 AM–2 AM
Friday: 11 AM–2 AM
Saturday: 11 AM–2 AM
Highlights
Atmosphere
Delicious drinks
Friendly staff
Variety of food options
Highly recommended

First of all, let me start off by saying that the atmosphere at The Spot is just amazing. This place has a great vibe and it's perfect for those who want to enjoy a healthy meal in a lively environment. As for the salads, I must say they did not disappoint! They offer a variety of options that are both tasty and healthy.

But what really stood out to me were their delicious drinks. I highly recommend trying the Green Juice or Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice to compliment your salad. The friendly staff was also a plus, they were very accommodating and made sure we had everything we needed.

Overall, I think The Spot La Jolla is definitely one of the best places in LA Jolla for salads. Their menu offers a variety of food options including vegan and gluten-free choices which is great for anyone with dietary restrictions. If you're looking for something fresh, healthy, and tasty then The Spot is definitely worth checking out. Trust me when I say this - you won't be disappointed!

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Head Lettuce - La Jolla

Head Lettuce - La Jolla
🗺️ 4150 Regents Park Row UNIT 175, La Jolla, CA 92037
☎️ 858-230-6786
🌐 Website
Sunday: 10:30 AM–8 PM
Monday: 10:30 AM–8 PM
Tuesday: 10:30 AM–8 PM
Wednesday: 10:30 AM–8 PM
Thursday: 10:30 AM–8 PM
Friday: 10:30 AM–8 PM
Saturday: 10:30 AM–8 PM
Highlights
Convenient option
Fresh ingredients
Generous servings

Firstly, I must say that Head Lettuce - La Jolla is a convenient option for those looking for a quick and healthy lunch. The location is easily accessible and there's ample seating available.

Now let's talk about the most important aspect of any salad: the ingredients. At Head Lettuce - La Jolla, they use only the freshest and highest quality ingredients. The vegetables were crisp and flavorful while the dressing was perfectly balanced.

What really impressed me was the generous servings! I ordered a small salad but it was more than enough to fill me up. It's great value for money.

Overall, I would highly recommend Head Lettuce - La Jolla to anyone who loves salads or those looking to try something new. With its convenient location, fresh ingredients and generous servings, it's definitely one of the best options in LA Jolla.

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Urban Plates

Urban Plates
🗺️ 8707 Villa La Jolla Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037
☎️ 858-263-0818
🌐 Website
Sunday: 11 AM–9 PM
Monday: 11 AM–9 PM
Tuesday: 11 AM–9 PM
Wednesday: 11 AM–9 PM
Thursday: 11 AM–9 PM
Friday: 11 AM–9:30 PM
Saturday: 11 AM–9:30 PM
Highlights
Healthy food options
Great service
Welcoming atmosphere
Kid-friendly
Plenty of parking

First of all, let me just say that if you're looking for healthy food options, then look no further! Urban Plates is a paradise for salad lovers like myself. I was blown away by the variety of greens and toppings they offer. I tried their Grilled Steak Salad with mixed greens, roasted peppers, and avocado; it was simply divine. The steak was cooked to perfection and the veggies were fresh as can be.

What impressed me even more than the food was the great service provided by the staff. They were super friendly and attentive to my needs. Plus, the welcoming atmosphere of this place made me feel right at home.

If you're worried about bringing your kids along, don't be! Urban Plates is kid-friendly and offers options that will satisfy even picky eaters.

And last but not least, there's plenty of parking available which is a huge plus in LA Jolla. I would definitely recommend this spot to anyone looking for a healthy meal or just a great salad option.

Overall, my experience at Urban Plates was fantastic! If you're in LA Jolla and looking for some tasty greens with great service, then head on over to Urban Plates. You won't regret it!

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Freshería - La Jolla

Freshería - La Jolla
🗺️ 627 Pearl St, La Jolla, CA 92037
☎️ 858-551-8786
🌐 Website
Sunday: 7 AM–7 PM
Monday: 7 AM–7 PM
Tuesday: 7 AM–7 PM
Wednesday: 7 AM–7 PM
Thursday: 7 AM–7 PM
Friday: 7 AM–7 PM
Saturday: 7 AM–7 PM
Highlights
Fresh, modern Mexican and American cuisine
Variety of breakfast items, salads, sandwiches, ceviches, wraps & burritos
Smoothies, fresh juices, coffee drinks, acai bowls & tostilocos
Customized & allergy-free food
Super clean and COVID precautions taken

First off, let me just say that this place is not your typical run-of-the-mill salad joint. It offers a fresh and modern twist on Mexican and American cuisine. The menu boasts an impressive variety of items ranging from breakfast options to salads, sandwiches, ceviches, wraps, and even burritos!

What really stood out to me was the level of customization available for each dish. As someone with dietary restrictions, I appreciate when restaurants can accommodate my needs. Freshería - La Jolla goes above and beyond in this regard by offering allergy-free options.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the salads. I ordered the "Mediterranean Salad" which came with fresh greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, feta cheese, olives, and a delicious homemade vinaigrette dressing. Each bite was bursting with flavor! It was clear that they use only the freshest ingredients.

To wash down my meal, I opted for a refreshing smoothie. They have a wide array of smoothies and fresh juices to choose from as well as coffee drinks and even acai bowls!

The atmosphere at Freshería - La Jolla is super clean and COVID precautions are definitely taken seriously here. Overall, I highly recommend checking out this spot for a tasty and healthy meal option in LA Jolla!

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Green Door Cafe

Green Door Cafe
🗺️ 7644 Girard Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037
☎️ 858-291-8886
🌐 Website
Sunday: 11 AM–8 PM
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 11 AM–4 PM
Thursday: 11 AM–8 PM
Friday: 11 AM–8 PM
Saturday: 11 AM–8 PM
Highlights
Vegan & GF
Locally sourced
Stunning food
Environmentally friendly
Reasonable prices

First of all, let me start by saying that Green Door Cafe is a haven for vegans and gluten-free folks. Their menu is packed with options that cater to various dietary needs, so you don't have to worry about getting a limited selection of salads.

What I love most about Green Door Cafe is their commitment to using locally sourced ingredients. This means that the food not only tastes better but also supports local farmers and reduces the carbon footprint. It's a win-win!

Now, let's get to the star of the show: the salads. Oh boy, they were stunning! The presentation was impeccable, and each salad was bursting with flavor and texture. I highly recommend trying their Beet & Goat Cheese Salad or their Quinoa & Sweet Potato Salad - both are absolute winners in my book.

Another thing worth mentioning is that Green Door Cafe is environmentally friendly. From using compostable utensils to recycling waste, they're doing their part in making this world a better place.

Lastly, I must mention that the prices at Green Door Cafe are reasonable considering the quality of food and service. You won't have to break the bank to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal.

Overall, if you're looking for a restaurant that serves some of the best salads in LA Jolla while being eco-conscious and wallet-friendly, then look no further than Green Door Cafe.

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Brad ThomasB
WRITTEN BY

Brad Thomas

With a true passion for exploring all that San Diego has to offer, Brad takes great pleasure in discovering new spots and sharing his experiences with his readers. From hidden gems to tried-and-true favorites, he doesn't miss a beat when it comes to exploring different corners of town. When he's not writing or dining out, Brad can be found soaking up some sunshine at the beach or taking an outdoor adventure around SoCal.Read more

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Food tour map
San Diego Secret Guide 🤫

San Diego Hot List 🔥

Get our exclusive guide to the top spots in San Diego! This guide includes:

  • Top 7 must-visit culinary destinations
  • Optimized 3-stop food tour route with a map
  • Expert insider tip for each location (when to go/what to order)
  • QR codes for easy navigation
  • More secret spots in your inbox every week