Del Mar, California, boasts a vibrant dining scene that caters to a variety of tastes and preferences, including those seeking healthy and nutritious options. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, you'll find a range of restaurants committed to using fresh, quality ingredients and crafting dishes that are both delicious and beneficial for your health. This guide explores some of the best healthy restaurants in and around Del Mar, highlighting their unique offerings and commitment to wellness.
The Cottage: Brunch with a Conscience
Located in nearby La Jolla, The Cottage has been serving delectable brunch offerings for over thirty years. What sets The Cottage apart is its commitment to locally sourced ingredients and supporting neighborhood initiatives. Each meal contributes to local causes, making your dining experience a feel-good one. The food is undeniably tasty, with standout dishes like the Okinawan Hash and the American Dream mocktail. The service is exceptional, with staff going the extra mile to ensure a memorable experience. The Cottage offers excellent food, service, and ample parking. While a wait may be involved, it's well worth it for the Lemon Ricotta pancakes and the Eggs La Jolla Benedict. The pork belly Benedict and crab and prosciutto Benedict are also highly recommended, along with the candied bacon.
Jake's Del Mar: Oceanfront Dining with Fresh Coastal Fare
Jake's Del Mar offers the quintessential California oceanfront dining experience. With its eclectic menu, the restaurant provides a casual yet elegant atmosphere right on the Del Mar shore. It features chef-driven California coastal fare, craft cocktails, and unforgettable ocean views. Jake's is ideal for a date night or a celebration with friends and family.
Pacifica Del Mar: A Local Gem with Ocean Views
Perched atop the Del Mar Plaza, Pacifica Del Mar has been a local favorite for years. Their menu showcases casual and inspired fare, including fresh seafood, steak, and pasta, complemented by an award-winning wine list and creative cocktails. Whether you choose to dine on their cozy ocean-view patio or in their vibrant dining room or bar, you'll enjoy warm service and great food and drink.
Tamarindo Del Mar: A Taste of Peru in a Charming Setting
Tamarindo Del Mar offers a vibrant Cali fusion of Peruvian flavors in a relaxed, charming cottage house setting. Voted BEST dining place in Del Mar by Eater San Diego, and Favorite Best Latin Cuisine by San Diego's Best. The restaurant is perfect for date nights, celebrations, or foodie adventures. Their menu includes seafood, fine cuts of meats, and vegetarian and vegan substitutes for traditional dishes like Ceviche, Lomo Saltado, and Chaufa. They also offer healthy desserts and Pisco Sours, with 2-for-1 champagne deals.
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Salt & Lime Del Mar: Mexican Cuisine with a Modern Twist
Salt & Lime flips the script on traditional Mexican food, offering a fresh, citrus-driven cuisine with high-vibe cocktails and oceanside views. Their dishes are designed to awaken the palate with light, acidic, and vibrant flavors, perfectly paired with wine or whiskey. Salt & Lime offers brunch, dinner, and a Reverse Happy Hour.
Beeside Balcony: Global Mediterranean Cuisine with Ocean Views
Beeside Balcony is a hidden gem in old Del Mar, featuring a relaxed seaside chic décor where guests can enjoy global Mediterranean cuisine and ocean views from the covered outside balcony. The restaurant is led by a third-generation chef of Spanish and Italian descent, Christophe, who deepened his knowledge of sourcing and cooking the freshest seafood available while delivering world-class service.
Il Fornaio: Authentic Italian Cuisine with Ocean Views
Il Fornaio is celebrated for its authentic, award-winning Italian cuisine, premium wine selections, and craft cocktails. Their signature dishes include housemade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, grilled entrées, and seasonal salads. Guests can enjoy a warm, elegant indoor atmosphere and al fresco dining on fire-lit ocean-view patios.
Shimbashi Izakaya: A Japanese Tapas Experience
Shimbashi's theme is based on the Izakaya, a Japanese tapas restaurant. They offer a multi-faceted menu that can be paired with sake for light eaters or enjoyed as sophisticated dinner entrées served in the Japanese tradition. The menu changes with the season, making each dining experience a new adventure.
Nick's Del Mar: Classic American Comfort Food
Nick's is dedicated to perfecting the dining experience through continuous innovation, offering the highest quality food and beverage, and executing impeccable standards of hospitality. Their restaurant features a chic island bar, walls of glass, and a spacious covered patio.
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Pacific Coast Grill - Cardiff: Healthy Dining with Vegetarian and Gluten-Free Options
Pacific Coast Grill - Cardiff offers a healthy dining experience with a variety of options for vegetarians and a separate gluten-free menu. Reviews praise the fresh seafood dishes and the diverse menu, indicating a range of healthy choices.
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