Clousie

I thought that clothing was more casual in southern California, but after looking at some on line photos, I have questions about a few places that appear to be more dressy. Would appreciate comments on appropriate attire for dining on terrace of George's Cove in La Jolla, church in La Jolla and restaurants in general around Palm Springs.

Thoughts on George's also welcome.

SeeHag

I live in Orange County and you can get away with nice jeans and a dressed up sweater or jacket nearly anywhere. I see a big variety of dress when out to dinner at nice restaurants. You see women in cocktail dresses and you see others in pants and a blouse. I am not familiar with George's Cove but any beach or Palm Spring's restaurant will be pretty flexible.

Tomsd

The Terrace/deck at George's at the cove is informal - as are most places in Palm Springs - and people do wear shorts to church in San Diego. Up to you - but a nice dress - or a pair of slacks/sports coat for a guy is more than plenty.

nanabee

I agree with tomsd, La Jolla is extremely informal. We often go to a wonderful French restaurant which is a formal place run by a formal Frenchman. However, he is not bothered a bit if you show up in jeans and t-shirts with flip flops or tennis shoes. They have wonderful food btw! Tapenade on Fay Ave in downtown La Jolla.
https://www.tapenaderestaurant.com/

We've been to George's top deck and most people are casually dressed as well.

Our neighbors always went to Stella Maria (the Catholic Church on Girard) and they all wore slacks and sandles.

If you wear a coat & tie and women in formal dresses, you'd definitely be out of "fashion."

nytraveler

Depends on what you mean by "formal". Some think anything more than a tee and cut off is formal. Have been to George's and it is definitely informal - but stylish is always the better choice over super casuale.

Tabernash2

We love George's at the Cove. It's Ocean Terrace is a gorgeous setting over the water. It is relatively informal, as is most all of So Cal. Great food and service, too.

There is also a fine dining restaurant at George's, I think called California Modern. It is on the lower level, is more expensive and more dressy. We have not eaten there.

Clousie

Thanks for your comments. I would never go to a nice restaurant in jeans and t shirt so seems as though we'll be okay. Guessing a light jacket would still be advisable for evening in San Diego in March.

Expanding on my original topic, but any restaurants (good local flavor/foods/setting) that you would suggest. Obviously in two weeks, we're looking for some simple places as we don't want/need fine dining every night.

Nanabee--Tapenade does look interesting.

We're doing 3 nights in SD staying at Glorietta Bay Inn, then making a loop through Boreggo Springs, Palm Springs, Temecula and back to Torrey Pines.

socalgal1

I love Glorietta Bay Inn. Will be there again in April; this will be my 3rd stay. Small, friendly staff, nice pool and jacuzzi area. Convenient to walk to restaurants, shops, market,etc.

Had some good meals at Chez Loma, Vigilucci's, Miguel's, Creperie and Sheerwater

jpie

Hi Clousie-we are renting in SD at the moment for a month and I have been struck by the fact that SD feels even more casual than LA. Granted we are staying near the beach but I see so many folks eating in gym clothes and flip flops-even casual for me who lives in slacks, sandals and Target tee shirts! take a look at the thread where Nanabee and I have been discussing restaurants for some other ideas:

http://www.fodors.com/community/unit...o-176190-2.cfm

And yes I would definitely recommend a light jacket of some sort or a pashmina or something for the evening-you will probably also want it for Palm Springs.