Best Restaurants, Must Try Places in Encinitas

"For a white-tablecloth affair that’s anything but stuffy, Jason Knibb’s modern-American destination keeps diners guessing with a menu inspired by San Diego’s ethnic diversity, local produce and the chef’s hometown of Montego Bay, Jamaica. But there’s much more than the bold and beautifully arranged entreés—and Knibb’s lauded tasting menu—which this spot is known for: Head straight to the bar for one of the best happy hours in the city, stop by earlier for the prix-fixe lunch that rotates monthly, or enjoy fresh pastries and house-smoked salmon at breakfast and brunch. Cap it all off with a stroll around the corner and you’ll find yourself at the ocean—then wave hi to the barking seals at the Children’s Pool."

"No dish says more about Nine-Ten Restaurant than its Jamaican jerk pork belly appetizer. This centerpiece pays homage to Executive Chef Jason Knibb’s Jamaican heritage, albeit in elevated form, and the pairing with baby carrots, swiss chard, plantains, and black-eyed peas with sweet potato purée gives it a California feel. It’s a variation on a theme repeated throughout the menu: flavor combinations that make sense, offered in surprising and refined ways."

"The centrally located, award-winning Bertrand at Mister A’s penthouse restaurant offers fine American cuisine and spectacular views of San Diego, including the skyline, bay, Balboa Park, Coronado, Point Loma, and the zoo. Relish in the amazing flavors of the classic lobster bisque, steak tartare, or gourmet beer-battered fish and chips. French restaurateur, Bertrand Hug, bought Mister A’s in 2000 and invited Chef de Cuisine, Stephane Voitzwinkler, to create simplistic, yet delectable dishes with European influences made from seasonally available, locally-sourced ingredients."

"Or rooftop restaurant I should say because Mister A’s is more a restaurant than a bar. Mister A’s has more of a classy, fine dining atmosphere. It’s perfect for date night and if you are looking for a restaurant with a view this is definitely the place to be."

"With roots as a jacket-required dinner room, Bertrand's has since turned to a more casual atmosphere while continuing to provide one of the best penthouse restaurant experiences in California.[Learn more]"

"Where: 9750 Distribution Ave., San Diego, CA 92121Neighborhood: MiramarThe people who brought you Ballast Point Brewing thought they might try their hand at spirits, too. It shouldn’t surprise you, then, that they spawned a behemoth of the local distillery scene: a 50,000-square-foot distillery, tasting room, and restaurant combo. The craftspeople there create vodka, tequila, gin, rum, and liqueur that you can enjoy at their eatery, also an acclaimed institution now."

"A post shared by Lou Zabala (@lou_zabala) on Feb 23, 2020 at 5:02pm PST. This company has its roots from the love of the hobby of its founder and master distiller, Yuseff Cherney. Cutwater Spirits is famous for their delicious canned mixes like vodka mule, gin and tonic, bloody mary, Paloma cocktail, whiskey lemon tea, vodka soda, lime margarita, and a lot more."

"Join Flemings Steakhouse La Jolla for a three-course Thanksgiving feast for just $49 per person, including classics like the Mixed Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast, or Sliced Beef Tenderloin. Sides include delicious butter-mashed sweet potatoes or Yukon Gold mashed potatoes. And bring the kids, too!"

"The staff will always be incredibly friendly and the food tastes great too. Your dining experience in La Jolla will definitely be memorable if you try any of the restaurants featured here."

"I was excited to grab a cake for my birthday and asked Lily her opinion between two flavors. She was helpful, knowledgeable, and friendly. Lily is wonderful..."

"Los Peñasquitos (“little cliffs”) is a great beginners’ trail for those who want to enjoy mountain-feel views without having to hire an expedition crew. There are two approaches (east and west), and the trailheads offer a trek of either 6.5, or 5.5 miles, respectively. The terrain is gradual and level, but the trails are surrounded by the sort of views that gave the area its name: scenic rocky outcroppings, and stony formations that ripple with rubble."

"It's not stunning skyline views you'll find here at Bartiquitos Lagoon, but great views of a different sort: endangered birds that occupy the tranquil lagoons situated near the hustle and bustle of San Diego. Located between Carlsbad and Encinitas and identified as one of the few remaining tidal wetlands in southern California, the area is perfect for hiking and provides outstanding opportunities for bird watching. Interpretive signs along the trails assist with identifying these rare birds."

"With various parking areas on the northern side, Batiquitos Lagoon is a great stop for a two-mile hike. Just east of Interstate 5, the area is home to 610 acres of lagoon space and has been preserved for public enjoyment from oceanic silt buildup. Bicycles are not allowed, though pets are – provided they are on a leash."

"You can also volunteer for monthly trail maintenance and lagoon cleanups. During normal times, docents lead tours along the trails, pointing out various flora and fauna along the way. (Location: Carlsbad)"