Kristy

We are staying in La Jolla Oct 8-9, and would like to find a restaurant there on Friday night. Price not really a concern. We want a great atmosphere (dare I say 'trendy'), good food (any kind), would love to be outside (but not necessary). Also looking for the same in San Diego for Saturday night.

We are coming in from around the country for surfing at the Surf Diva school and a bachlorette weekend for our friend. Should be a blast...and any help from my fellow "hip" fodorites will be appreciated!

Thanks-
Kristy

PeggyE

For San Diego, I would say have some pre-dinner drinks at Croce's, then dinner at Rice at the W (tre-trendy hotel!, some outdoor dining areas)& then go upstairs to the open air heated sand floor & fire pit area. I believe you can eat there too. Or the Prado outside terrace in Balboa park had great food & atmosphere.

Heavens

La Jolla has many excellent restaurants. Ideas: Trattoria Aqua, George's At the Cove, Piatti's, Harry's American Bar, and the perfect choice, IMO, is Roy's. Great food, happening place, young people, nice bar with TV's if you wanna catch up on the sports. Classy place though.

Not sure what you mean by San Diego on Sat. night...Gaslamp downtown? There are many fabulous places down there. Lou and Mickeys is one of my favorites. Ra Sushi, Dobsons. Little Italy has some great choices also. We ate at Trattoria Fantastica this summer and loved it.

Seafood: Jakes Del Mar, Third Corner in Point Loma.

Barbara

Downtown, try the quite new Mister Tiki Mai Tai Lounge at 801 Fifth Ave. It's a restaurant and bar. Much as I like the Prado, I think for your purpose it's too far from everything.

In La Jolla, go to the upstairs terrace at George's. It's outside, has a younger crowd and is more casual (but not beach casual). Trattoria Aqua is great too.

mclaurie

I had a great meal at Roppongi (Asian Fusion) in La Jolla last time I was there http://www.roppongiusa.com/main1.html

There are outside tables and one large table for a big group that would be fun, but there is no view. George's at the Cove is the big destination rest. that does have an ocean view but only til it gets dark. (I didn't know there was a Roy's there!!)

I think everyone's info here is good. I like the Prado too but don't think it's well located for you (it's in Balboa Park where the zoo and museums are) nor does it seem "hip."

Heavens

Roys is just south of UTC. I forget the name of the shopping center. It is where Easop's Table is, the wonderful Greek restaurant. There is also a Crown Books I think, and Trophys...

cher_cher

Roppongi! Roppongi! Roppongi!

Don't bother ordering off the dinner menu. Do the tapas all night and definitely get the Ahi and Crab Napolean. I've been there with large groups a couple times and it is super fun. They have outdoor seating, as well, with heat lamps.

Sammy also owns Fresh in La Jolla. I've never been there but I'm sure it is equally fantastic.

mclaurie

Thanks Heavens. I now know why I didn't know about it. It's not downtown Will have to try it next time. Where's Fresh cher cher?

paula1470

Fresh is on Wall Street between Girard and Herschel. Excellent seafood. If you want a view George's in La Jolla is the place to go. Roy's is good but I think Kristy's group would enjoy the atmosphere of downtown La Jolla more.

leen24

For a place in La Jolla, Stop in the Cafe at Top of the Cove before dinner - before 7pm - for the $2 martinis at happy hour. The Crab Catcher has great martinis too.

Roppongi is a great place for dinner- but definitely ask to sit outside - inside is a little stuffy. Get a sake sampler and the tapas - mmm. Check out their site: http://www.roppongiusa.com/main1.html

If you are looking for another place outside of La Jolla, I'd recommend going to Kemo Sabe in Hillcrest - http://www.cohnrestaurants.com/cohn/cohnrestaurants/
This place is always packed, it is hip and the food presentation is outrageous!