Local Wally's Guide to San Diego

Local Wally's Guide to San Diego

beach front dining

The Shores Restaurant in La Jolla, Beach Front Dining and San Diego Restaurant Week

restaurantsLocal Wally2 Comments

The Shores Restaurant8110 Camino Del Oro, La Jolla, CA 92037 - (858) 456-0600


The Quick:  Incredible beach front location in La Jolla, stunning views, open Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, and Sunday Brunch.  Family friendly, active patio during the Summer.  Literally right on the beach!

The Food:  Pacific Inspired, meaning mainly burgers, seafood and steaks - figure $15 for a lunch burger to dinner entrees such as short ribs or scallops all under $30.

The Hook:  San Diego Restaurant Week, January 21 -28, 2018 - Get an appetizer, an entree, and a dessert for $30. 


The Shores Restaurant is often overlooked by locals.  Sure, it's not fancy like The Marine Room and the food isn't over the top gourmet like George's at the Cove but there is no denying that the view and location right on the beach - La Jolla Shores Beach to be exact - should get your attention. And the food, yes, it's very good!

Let's talk about San Diego Restaurant Week for a moment.  If you find yourself eating at the same old places time after time again, this is your week to explore the good eats found all around San Diego.  There are deals, great deals, to be found during San Diego Restaurant Week and if you haven't been to the Shores then put it on your list.

San Diego doesn't have that many "beach front" restaurants - the Shores is one of them!

The restaurant sits literally on the beach.  The huge bar faces the beach as do many of the dining tables.  That said, come before the sun sets for the best experience.  During Restaurant Week you get an appetizer, an entree, and dessert for $30.  They invited me in to sample the food and it was very good.  The chef had credentials from Roy's of Hawaii and there's definitely a bit of Asian influence on the menu, from killer Poke to homemade pot stickers.  But let's get on to my dinner - I know you want to see it.

Ahi Poke at The Shores Restaurant in La Jolla

Ahi Poke at The Shores Restaurant in La Jolla

I started with the Ahi Poke and it was perfectly balanced - not to much soy, just enough heat and not drenched in sesame oil, a great way to start the meal.  I regret not getting the Pot Stickers after I found out the chef spent time in Hawaii and knew his Asian cooking.  Oh well, next time.

Short Ribs at The Shores Restaurant in La Jolla

Short Ribs at The Shores Restaurant in La Jolla

My entree was the short ribs, nice and tender and succulent, just perfect.  And my wife got the fish - want to see it?

Almond crusted Butterfish at The Shores Restaurant in La Jolla

Almond crusted Butterfish at The Shores Restaurant in La Jolla

Oh yeah, this was a good one, a bit mild but very flaky and nicely done.  We ordered a couple of desserts and the one that really knocked us both out was the Creme Brulee with poached pear on top.

Killer Dessert at The Shores Restaurant in La Jolla

Killer Dessert at The Shores Restaurant in La Jolla

In the end, a great experience and what a great deal during San Diego Restaurant Week - $30 for everything!  A special Thank You to The Shores for inviting me in - you guys are awesome! 

Remember, come before the sun sets for the best experience.  And if you are reading this after restaurant week is over then put this one on your list for a sunny beach day lunch on the patio!

MAKE RESERVATIONS FOR THE SHORES DURING SAN DIEGO RESTAURANT WEEK