6 Del Mar Restaurants That Foodies Will Be Flocking to This Summer

It’s no secret that Del Mar gets a little busier in the summer—the races, fair, beaches, and weather all draw crowds. But for some people, summertime means being a little more adventurous and trying new things, like a newly opened restaurant or reinvented dish at a tried and true favorite.Whether you want to test the newest culinary venture, or can’t wait for a fresh take at a beloved restaurant, these are the six places everyone will be eating in Del Mar this summer.

New to the Scene

The Lanai Island Grinds

After incredible success in Encinitas, The Lanai Island Grinds is expanding to Del Mar. Fans of the restaurant location will be happy to know this outpost will have the same lunch menu as the original spot. With Hawaiian-themed cuisine, evening dishes will include a sushi, sashimi, and poke bar along with mouthwatering Island Fusion dishes—all served with aloha and ocean views. If you’ve been fortunate enough to visit the original location, you know why everyone will be visiting their Del Mar restaurant this July when it opens.

Viewpoint Brewing Co.

We’re excited to welcome Viewpoint Brewing Co. to the Del Mar scene this summer. It will be the first craft brewery in the city, and will surely attract a cult following. From its incredible food and beer to its unique taps and location overlooking the San Dieguito Lagoon, Viewpoint will be the place to be this summer once it opens mid-July.

Old Favorites

While some of these restaurants have been around for a while, the new season means they’re refreshing their menus. Places like Coastline at L’Auberge Del Mar and the restaurants listed below shake up their menus for summer to keep ingredients fresh and fans tempted by new selections.

Café Secret

Café Secret was just featured in a Visit California Dream Eater video, so this Peruvian restaurant is going to be one of the hottest spots this summer. With an outdoor patio perfect for summer afternoons, refreshing plates like ceviche, and rather extensive happy hour menu, you might find that Café Secret will become your new favorite restaurant this summer.

Jake’s Del Mar

Jake’s Del Mar has always been popular, especially in the summer. Its prime beachfront location and ocean views can’t be beat, which is why reservations are almost always required if you want to snag a table. For days when you just want to sip a cocktail, wine, or beer and enjoy the sunshine, we suggest heading straight for Jake’s outdoor bar—it has a lively atmosphere and the wait is much shorter than trying to get a table inside.

Board & Brew

Board & Brew has always been a staple to just about every Del Mar local’s diet. The sandwich shop has been around for nearly 40 years, and there’s always a line out the door—that’s how good it is. Whether you want to have your meal with a pint of beer or take it to go and head to the beach, Board & Brew has a sandwich (or salad) that’ll definitely satisfy your hunger.

Tips for Navigating the Scene this Summer

Because Del Mar is busier in the summer, you can count on our restaurants being a bit busier as well. Before dining out, read up on these dos and don’ts to make your meal more enjoyable.

  • DO check out the restaurant’s happy hour and specials: Most places will have daily deals (like Taco Tuesday), happy hours, or calendar specials that you won’t want to miss out on.

  • DON’T forget Fido at home: There are so many pet-friendly restaurants in the Village! Check ahead of time and bring your furry friend with you next time you’re dining out.

  • DO keep special events in mind: The ocean views and award-winning cuisine make Del Mar restaurants must-dine venues for special occasions like Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Thanksgiving, New Year’s Eve, and other holidays. Plan ahead so you’re not left starving without a table.

  • DON’T skip on making a reservation: Reservations are always desired, and with online reservations and apps like OpenTable, it’s too easy to be overlooked.

Mix things up and try a new place or plate this summer. Visit the Del Mar Village online for a full directory of our restaurants and updates on their happy hours and specials.