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Best Fun Restaurants in Encinitas

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93 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Herb & Sea restaurant
1. Herb & Sea
4.6
Exceptional(2806)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Encinitas
Booked 39 times today
Blending classic East Coast culinary traditions with a modern Californian sensibility, Herb & Sea is Chef Brian Malarkey’s venerable companion restaurant to the much-loved Herb & Wood in Little Italy. Quickly becoming one of the most sought-after tables in town, the concept shines with a menu that focuses on simple, clean, bright flavors. Located steps from Moonlight Beach in Encinitas, the vibrant space is housed in a 1920’s art deco building that has been restored to its original glory.Daily operations are helmed by Executive Chef Aidan Owens. The menu includes a mix of raw bar staples, fresh seafood, meat dishes, and roasted vegetables. A variety of pizzas and pastas round out the offerings, alongside dessert and a dedicated kids’ menu.The spirits program is bright and playful, emphasizing citrus and floral notes that utilize the same ingredients found on the menu. The wine list offers a similar sense of whimsy, highlighting labels meant to complemen
A photo of SAGO restaurant
2. SAGO
4.3
Awesome(85)
Price: Expensive
• Asian • Encinitas
Booked 10 times today
SAGO is a new and exciting dining and nightlife concept, steps from Encinitas beaches. Looking forward to greeting our guests and giving them and outstanding experience.
A photo of Puntamar restaurant
3. Puntamar
4.1
Excellent(3)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Encinitas
Puntamar is more than just a restaurant; it’s an authentic experience celebrating quality in every detail. Here, fun and excellence merge to create unforgettable moments for our customers. Discover the true essence of Mexican cuisine, crafted with authentic ingredients and genuine flavors.
A photo of SHELTER restaurant
4. SHELTER
4.1
Excellent(23)
Price: Moderate
• Dining Bar • Encinitas
Booked 1 time today
"Open- air" cocktail lounge and nightclub in the heart of downtown Encinitas. DJ's nightly curating sexy house vibes. Reservations for bottle service are highly recommended. Shelter is a 21+ venue.
A photo of Haven restaurant
5. Haven
4.2
Awesome(134)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Encinitas
Booked 5 times today
Nestled in the hills of Leucadia, Fox Point Farms is home to Haven Farm + Table, a new Californian restaurant helmed by Chef de Cuisine Kelston Moore and General Manager and Wine Director Ricardo Zarate Jr. Haven features the bountiful produce of the three-acre regenerative farm located just steps away from the kitchen. Delight in innovative dishes such as the Jerk Pork Belly Mole while dining on the terrace overlooking our lush fields, or sip a cocktail designed by Phillip Laethem in the stately yet cozy dining room.
A photo of Valentina restaurant
6. Valentina
4.8
Exceptional(1795)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary European • Encinitas
Booked 18 times today
A small neighborhood Spanish restaurant in a cute California beach town called Leucadia.we play music and serve wine, tapas, some cocktails and thoughtful hospitality with some dim lighting in a lively environment.We look forward to welcoming you.
A photo of Buona Forchetta Encinitas restaurant
7. Buona Forchetta Encinitas
4.7
Exceptional(579)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Encinitas
Booked 18 times today
Buona Forchetta Encinitas, our third location, blends award winning Neapolitan-style pizzas and Northern Italian upscale entrees in a family-friendly, approachable space. Located in Encinitas, this location boasts a indoor seating as well as an outside patio and a small room for private events. Inside, a gilded oven churns out classic creations, while the main kitchen serves up chef-driven pastas and entree dishes. Owner Matteo Cattaneo brought the Italian warehouse-style eatery to life.
A photo of Pacific Coast Grill - Cardiff restaurant
8. Pacific Coast Grill - Cardiff
4.8
Exceptional(9149)
Price: Very Expensive
• Seafood • Cardiff By The Sea
Booked 31 times today
Pacific Coast Grill's oceanfront venue features unique Pacific Coastal cuisine, an oyster bar, select sushi rolls, and a plethora of seafood choices, delicious steaks and more! There are two levels of dining at the new PCG with every dining seat in the house carefully planned to have an ocean view. There are bars on both levels and a heated outdoor patio and a deck with one of the best views of the Pacific Ocean and the line up at Cardiff Reef. You can watch surfers, kite surfers, dolphins, whales and spectacular sunsets from throughout the restaurant.
A photo of Cocina de Barrio Encinitas restaurant
9. Cocina de Barrio Encinitas
4.6
Exceptional(115)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Encinitas
Booked 1 time today
*Brunch hours are on a walk-in basis only.Cocina de Barrio by Chef Jose J. FloresWelcome to Cocina de Barrio, the newest modern-urban Mexican restaurant located in Encinitas, CA! We are proud to feature the culinary richness of Oaxaca as well as other Mexican regions. Stop by and enjoy our bar stocked with plenty of tequila and mezcal selections, beer, and wines sourced from Valle Guadalupe.Don't forget to join us during our weekend brunch (where we add a Mexican kick) and our happy hour every Monday-Friday from 3-5pm! Stay Chido!
A photo of Waverly Restaurant & Lounge restaurant
10. Waverly Restaurant & Lounge
4.6
Exceptional(98)
Price: Expensive
• American • Encinitas
Booked 19 times today
Located in beautiful Cardiff by The Sea, Waverly is a full-service restaurant serving Progressive American cuisine & specialty cocktails with a European influence.Evening Dining Reservation tables will be reserved for 1 hour and 45 minutes for parties of up to 2 and for 2 hours for parties of up to 6.Reservations are weather permitting and may be rescheduled if inclement weather is forecast. You will be contacted by one of our Hospitality Leaders should modifications need to be made to your reservation.*We offer a limited menu happy hour Tuesday through Sunday from 3 to 5 PM. No reservations needed – first come, first served

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Jenvip
    Seattle / Eastern Washington •37 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    The food was excellent. Every one of us enjoyed all of the dishes. The chicken was particularly good.
    More info
    Herb & SeaPrice: Moderate• Californian• Encinitas
    •
    4.6
  • Michele
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    This is one of my favorite spots in North County. They were experiencing some issues with over booking, and they more than made up for the inconvenience. Their staff and customer service are top notch! The new menu was amazing too!! Plus they always have great music.
    More info
    SAGOPrice: Expensive• Asian• Encinitas
    •
    4.3
  • Pollyvip
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 21, 2024
    Great over-all with excellent service. Would have preferred a more varied menu with a couple of additional entrees- possibly a chicken option? and possibly a vegan option. Ceasar salad, bread and soup were very good~ and the flavored butters. A little chilly, but not bad considering is so open air inside. Savanah was a wonderful server xoxo
    More info
    HavenPrice: Expensive• Californian• Encinitas
    •
    4.2
  • OpenTable Diner
    Austin •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 10, 2024
    Alex was awesome. Service was great. Delicious fresh food. Great drinks. All around great time! Nothing like it around here!
    More info
    PuntamarPrice: Expensive• Mexican• Encinitas
    •
    4.1
  • KittyLyons81
    San Francisco Bay Area •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Mar 27, 2022
    Loved dancing at shelter and the good vibes !
    More info
    SHELTERPrice: Moderate• Dining Bar• Encinitas
    •
    4.1

Discover best fun restaurants in Encinitas

Discover the vibrant and eclectic dining scene in Encinitas, North San Diego, where every restaurant embodies the essence of fun. Nestled in this lively locale, a variety of eateries offer unique atmospheres that range from casual and cozy to modern and upbeat. Each establishment is committed to providing exceptional service and a memorable dining experience, making them perfect spots for both locals and visitors. The menus are diverse, featuring everything from innovative local cuisine to international flavors, catering to all palates. Whether you're looking for a place with live music, outdoor seating, or a family-friendly environment, Encinitas has a restaurant that will meet your needs. The dining scene here is not just about food; it's about creating lasting memories in a fun and inviting setting. Explore the best that Encinitas has to offer and enjoy a meal that is as exciting as the town itself.

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