
Georges at the Cove
A renowned La Jolla institution offering elegant New American cuisine with breathtaking ocean views, perfect for a memorable dining experience.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

Georges at the Cove

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A renowned La Jolla institution offering elegant New American cuisine with breathtaking ocean views, perfect for a memorable dining experience.
"Enjoy a delicious meal overlooking an absolutely stunning ocean view."
Reserve Ahead
Securing a table in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular times and window-side seating.
Embrace Outdoor Seating
Enjoy the ocean breeze from the rooftop terrace. Outdoor heaters and blankets are provided for cooler evenings.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
New American
Price
$$$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Unforgettable Ocean Views
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean from its prime location in La Jolla Cove. Ideal for sunsets and romantic evenings.

Signature Cuisine by Trey Foshee
Enjoy New American cuisine crafted by renowned chef Trey Foshee, focusing on innovative dishes and fresh, local ingredients.

Elegant Ambiance
A refined setting spread across three levels, offering a sophisticated atmosphere perfect for special occasions or a chic night out.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reserve Ahead
Securing a table in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular times and window-side seating.
Embrace Outdoor Seating
Enjoy the ocean breeze from the rooftop terrace. Outdoor heaters and blankets are provided for cooler evenings.
Savor Unique Dishes
Don't miss signature items like the Salmon Tartar or the highly praised George's Famous Soup.
Consider Off-Peak Times
For a potentially less crowded experience, consider visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays.
Tips
from all over the internet
Reserve Ahead
Securing a table in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular times and window-side seating.
Embrace Outdoor Seating
Enjoy the ocean breeze from the rooftop terrace. Outdoor heaters and blankets are provided for cooler evenings.
Savor Unique Dishes
Don't miss signature items like the Salmon Tartar or the highly praised George's Famous Soup.
Consider Off-Peak Times
For a potentially less crowded experience, consider visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Georges at the Cove is celebrated for its absolutely stunning ocean views and sophisticated ambiance, making it a top choice for special occasions and romantic outings. While the cuisine is generally praised, with standouts like the George's Famous Soup and fresh seafood, some diners have noted inconsistencies in food quality and service. The ocean terrace offers a particularly sought-after dining experience.
"If you want to enjoy a delicious meal overlooking an absolutely stunning ocean view then make a reservation at George’s at the Cove
We were lucky to snag a table just at the edge of the upstairs balcony, but to be honest, when you’re up there, there really isn’t a bad seat. Even aside from the incredible views, the rooftop restaurant offered a solid ambiance/vibe. The decor, fixtures, bar, etc were all trendy and clean
The staff were great. We didn’t have to wait long to be seated, we ordered almost immediately, and our food came out in a timely manner. We also sat and enjoyed the views and conversation a bit after we finished eating, and our server came by to check on us but we never felt pressured to leave
The menu offers something for everything. We shared the rock fish tacos and their burger. Both were hearty and very flavorful. I would also recommend the chips and guacamole/salsa. I didn’t love the salsa flavor, but the guacamole was solid
Some tips:
Definitely consider making a reservation and ask if you can request a table that overlooks the water. There is only street parking and garage parking. We circled around a few times before parking at the nearby parking garage. But be warned, it’s $30 to park there. But after you eat, walk down to the cost and explore the La Jolla cove, the sea caves, see the seals, and explore some of the parks along this scenic stretch of coastline
Cheers!!"
Nicholas Stevenson
"The place has a nice view — really the main reason we decided to try it. Unfortunately, the overall experience didn’t live up to expectations.
Just a few minutes after being seated (before we even ordered), we asked to switch tables. The manager, Sasha, refused, saying it’s their policy not to change tables once guests are seated. While policies are understandable, her approach felt unnecessarily rigid. She came across as cold and lacking any sense of hospitality.
The food was underwhelming. The chips seemed straight out of a bag — definitely not fresh. The crab spaghetti was okay and watery. Our server didn’t introduce herself and had a dry, unwelcoming attitude, as if she didn’t want to be there. She never smiled, barely acknowledged us, didn’t check in during the meal, and never offered to refill our waters or suggest drinks — mocktails or cocktails.
Service overall was poor. The server essentially just took our order and disappeared. No attention to the table, no effort to create a positive dining experience. They also automatically added a 5% service charge, which felt unearned considering the lackluster service.
I had added a note to our reservation that we were celebrating my sister’s birthday, but no one acknowledged it. No greeting, no dessert, not even a simple “Happy Birthday.” We just paid and left with a disappointing experience.
For a nearly $200 tab, you’re better off going elsewhere. We were deciding between this place and Duke’s La Jolla — definitely go with Duke’s. The service and management here are unprofessional, unfriendly, and clearly inexperienced."
Edwin Ulyses Mestas
"Go for the view, food maybe!
They have the right combinations, right ideas however food sometimes felt like it missed the mark. Cocktails are decent. I would recommend the spicy pina margaritas and you cannot go wrong with the watermelon feta salad.
Optimally priced for California standards."
rohan tibrewala
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Many visitors recommend visiting during sunset for an unforgettable experience. Reservations are highly advised, especially for prime seating.
Yes, Georges at the Cove features an Ocean Terrace with outdoor seating offering spectacular ocean views. Blankets and heaters are available for cooler evenings.
Reservations are strongly recommended to secure a table, particularly if you desire a seat with an ocean view.
Diners often rave about the George's Famous Soup, Salmon Tartar, and the Rockfish Tacos.
Parking is typically available on the street or in nearby parking garages. Be aware that some garages may charge a fee.
The menu offers diverse options, and while not explicitly detailed, salads and vegetable-focused dishes are likely available.
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Best Rooftop Bars in San Diego: Places to Drink Outside with a View
George’s at the Cove’s Ocean Terrace has stunning panoramic views of La Jolla Cove from nearly every seat in the house, but for optimal viewing, snag one of the twenty-two coveted seats. The upscale cocktail menu by Trey Foshee features all the summery drinks you’d imagine, from margs and martinis to mojitos and micheladas. Stop by at lunchtime for local Rockfish Tacos on heirloom corn tortillas; George’s famous black bean, broccoli, and smoked chicken soup; or at dinner for Prime Flat Iron and Wild Isles Salmon over braised lentils.How to book: Reserve your table online.
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For more than 40 years, Georges at The Cove has served as a La Jolla institution. Spread across three levels, all of which offer oceanfront views, serving up fresh seafood and an extensive cocktail and wine list, head up to Ocean Terrace for a more casual rooftop vibe. Otherwise, the open-air balcony on Level brings an of sophistication, perfect for date night, as does the Ocean View dining room for a more elegant affair.
Best Seafood in San Diego
The Star of the Sea Room is not only not at all casual, it is quite pricey. You could check out the Blue Crab Coastal Cuisine on 5th Ave (I think) in the Gaslamp District, also not inexpensive. Or the Fish Market, which is less expensive and more casual downstairs, and less casual and more expensive upstairs (Top of the Market), but you can make reservations upstairs.
San Diego - fun b-day dinner for 14year old daughter and good breakfast places
I know you're interested in a place for breakfast, but if you could grab a bagel and hold out for lunch, George's at the Cove has a beautiful patio overlooking the water. I frequently take visitors there for lunch because the atmosphere is beautiful and the lunch prices are fairly reasonable. It's called the Ocean Terrace Bistro.
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George’s At the Cove, in many Insiders’ minds, is synonymous with “La Jolla” because of not only being considered a top restaurant locally, in San Diego, California and nationally and around the world for its gourmet cuisine, beverages and service, but for the immense amount of the owner’s community support. For many years, George Hauer funded the annual 4 th of July fireworks display at La Jolla Cove, (that in itself would be enough for a spot on the Citizen’s Wall of Fame), as well as his service on several community boards. George’s unique dishes use locally grown ingredients whenever possible and are always innovative; they have a reputation to protect.
Romantic Waterfront Restaurants In San Diego
Anyone who has spent more than a few minutes in San Diego has heard of George’s at the Cove and if you haven’t been before, we have to ask, what are you waiting for?. We’re sure you and your lovely bride or handsome groom already have your next four trips on the books for your Carefree boat, so instead of wandering aimlessly (not that there is anything wrong with wandering the seas!) why not make George’s your destination?. Offering a menu filled with sweet treats from the sea, holding hands with your sweetest while offering up a toast to the beauty that is your life is destined to be your most favorite thing to do this month!
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1250 Prospect St., La Jolla, CA 92037Phone: (858) 454-4244 Website. We love the restaurant’s motto that “Life (and dinner) is to be enjoyed one sunset at time.” And they can proudly proclaim this since George’s offers stunning ocean views that delight guests for over 35 years, especially from its Level2bar and rooftop Ocean Terrace, offering upscale bar bites and limited entrees. This is where we like to dine and enjoy some incredibly creative starters that include Crispy Shrimp with mojo aioli and Salmon Tartar with crispy rice, cucumber, radish, smashed avocado, and gochugaru dressing.
Best Fish Tacos In San Diego: 12 Restaurants To Try
George’s Ocean Terrace, the top level of George’s at the Cove, is my all-around favorite place for fish tacos in San Diego on a sunny day. Between the spectacular ocean view, cool contemporary look, festive vibe, and one of San Diego’s best chefs… you can’t beat the experience. About 95% of the time, I start with a bowl of black bean soup and then devour a plate of grilled fish tacos (with jalapeà±o cream, guacamole, cilantro and shredded cabbage on a corn tortilla made a sister restaurant, Galaxy Taco) paired with a few glasses of Chardonnay.
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The scene: The million dollar view, fresh seafood and stellar cocktails are just some of the highlights that attract locals and visitors to George’s at the Cove. Divided into two main sections, Ocean Terrace boasts exceptional views across La Jolla Cove and provides the perfect place to enjoy a casual lunch or dinner al fresco under the San Diego sun. Start your leisurely meal with a fresh, crisp salad then follow it up with some Asian-inspired seafood or a rustic meat entrée while sipping on a glass of perfectly paired wine.
La Jolla Cove: Best Things to Do in 2025
When you’re looking for amazing ocean views in the elegant jewelry district of La Jolla’s famous Prospect Street look no further than George’s At The Cove. The restaurant has multiple levels including a rooftop bar that is the perfect stage for sunset viewing and photo-taking of the La Jolla Cove and the Pacific Ocean. Known for its California modern cuisine incorporating seafood and locally grown produce, there aren’t any misses on George’s menu which is now open for lunch, dinner, and take-out.
Top Seafood Dining in San Diego: Fresh & Local Delights
Located in the heart of La Jolla overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this waterfront dining destination offers a choice of environments in which to dine and myriad menus showcasing fresh, delicious dishes. Eat outdoors at the Ocean Terrace rooft op to enjoy a bar; panoramic views of La Jolla Cove; and popular grilled fish tacos, salads, sandwiches, pastas and seafood. Level2 is an open-air space with a casual lunch and dinner menu, and the lower level is perfect for events.
Top 10 Waterfront Restaurants in San Diego: Dining with a View
At George’s at the Cove, you can choose from three restaurants, all offering stunning ocean views. George’s California Modern features executive chef Trey Foshee’s innovative coastal cuisine, highlighting local farms and vistas of La Jolla Cove, the Torrey Pines cliffs, and the vast Pacific Ocean. Upstairs, the Ocean Terrace offers rooftop dining with handcrafted cocktails and gourmet SoCal casual dishes like fish tacos, kale salad, and pastas.
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The La Jolla institution is known for many things: a commitment to farm-to-table ethics, an outstanding bar program, and amazing views from its Ocean Terrace rooftop. It’s polished, not pretentious—a happy medium between California Modern’s fine dining on the ground floor and the relaxed second-floor bar, Level2. It’s so popular for golden hour that they update their website every day with sunset times.
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There is perhaps no more upbeat place to enjoy San Diego’s famously mild weather than at this local institution. Long treasured as a jewel of the city dining scene, George’s has offered rooftop seating since before rooftop seating was cool. Whether you opt for a table overlooking the ocean, or belly up to the stocked-to-the-gills full-service bar, you’ll enjoy stellar views with your booze and chews.
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Listed as one of San Diego’s “10 Best Foodie Spots” by USA Today, George’s at the Cove is actually three dining establishments in one with views of the ocean. The main restaurant, California Modern, features inventive fine dining with locally grown and harvested ingredients. Level2 offers classic and innovative cocktails with house-made ingredients and hand-cut ice along with lunch and dinner.
The Best 11 Fine Dining Restaurants in San Diego
No San Diego fine dining list would be complete without mentioning George’s at the Cove, one of the “World’s Top 10 Restaurants” according to Fodor’s. But like a good movie, we’re going to turn this plot on its head and talk about the fine drinking experience that this La Jolla Village restaurant has to offer. For a Thin Man cocktail experience, look no further than George’s Level2 bar.
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Address: 1250 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037Phone:+1 (858) 454-4244Website:georgesatthecove.comDetails: $$$, Californian restaurant. George’s at the Cove is a hidden gem that offers an unforgettable dining experience with its stunning views, excellent service, and delicious food. Located near Torrey Pines and La Jolla Cove, this restaurant is the perfect stop after a day of exploring.
Where to Enjoy the Best Seafood and Fish Tacos in
Where: 1250 Prospect, La Jolla, CA 92037Region: La JollaWith its three-level dining overlooking gorgeous La Jolla Cove, George's at the Coveoffers three times the view. Whether you choose upscale dining in the lower level or the casual bistro menu in the middle and upper level, you're assured of fresh ocean catch served with locally grown produce in an innovative contemporary style.
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For an elegant dining experience, consider George’s at the Cove in lovely La Jolla. The weather here is beautiful year-round, so you can safely plan a dinner on the rooftop Ocean Terrace at George’s and take in the scenic Pacific Ocean as you enjoy your delicious meal. Seating at the Ocean Terrace bar is elevated, so you can sit anywhere with a clear sight of the panoramic views.
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Few places in La Jolla are as synonymous with dining excellence as Georges at the Cove. Set along Prospect Street with unobstructed ocean views, this long-standing favorite is helmed by award-winning chef Trey Foshee, who brings a fresh approach to New American cuisine. The menu is tightly curated and changes seasonally, making the most of what’s fresh and local.
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Created by well-known chef Tree Foshee, this New American restaurant is located right on the water. It has been named one of the best places to enjoy rooftop dining time and time again by locals and visitors alike. Here you can enjoy panoramic views of La Jolla Cove while munching on mouthwatering delicacies like swordfish and duck breast or vegetarian paella.
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If you find yourself dining at George’s, you will quickly understand what makes this restaurant so unique. Overlooking the entire La Jolla Cove, George’s is a local date-night destination, easily desirable for more than just its ideal location. Watch the sun dip under the horizon as you sip on craft cocktails and modern California cuisine.
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Settled within the heart of La Jolla, George’s at the Cove is the home of world-renowned new American cuisine from Chef Trey Foshee. Beyond the quintessential Cali menu offerings, George’s is also celebrated for its vibrant outdoor ambience and up-close view of the Pacific Ocean. For more information, visit www.georgesatthecove.com.
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George’s At The Cove (La Jolla): There’s a reason why George’s At The Cove has been voted San Diego’s best restaurant - they have a picture perfect terrace, high quality cuisine, and an incredible ocean view. If you’ve never been to George’s, move it to the top on your list!. (They also have a great happy hour!) (@georgesatthecove)
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La Jolla is known for its swanky shops, bars, and high-class neighborhood, and George’s at the Cove is no exception. Enjoy the eye-catching views of the colorful and lush La Jolla coastline from the comfort of your own booth. George’s has top-notch California Modern cuisine but also makes one killer margarita.
Best Places to Eat & Drink in La Jolla, San Diego
George’s At The Cove is an iconic dining destination in La Jolla, offering breathtaking ocean views and contemporary California cuisine. The multi-level restaurant features a rooftop terrace, perfect for enjoying innovative dishes and craft cocktails while overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
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If you’re willing to spend a bit more money, you can watch the sunset while enjoying a truly inspired dinner. This location is perfect for a romantic date or a special anniversary. Put the walking shoes away, don your finest date night apparel, and get ready for a breathtaking evening.
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George’s at the Cove in La Jolla is an absolute must when you’re craving those dreamy ocean views and good vibes. Their Ocean Terrace is basically the definition of SoCal coastal dining—panoramic views of La Jolla Cove, killer sunsets, and a breeze that’ll keep you lingering for hours.
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This La Jolla restaurant experience offers guests the choice of 3 different unique levels to dine and drink at, one being a beautiful rooftop terrace. Reserve a table for sunset and get a front-row seat that overlooks the Pacific ocean and enjoy classic Southern California cuisine.
LA Jolla San Diego's Best Lunch [Updated 2025]
Walking into George's at the Cove, I was immediately struck by the amazing view of the Pacific Ocean. As I gazed out at the sparkling waves crashing against the shore, I couldn't help but feel a sense of tranquility and awe. It truly is a lunch spot with a million-dollar view.
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George's at the Cove - La JollaSpectacular ocean views accentuate three distinctive dining experiences at George's at the Cove, in the heart of La Jolla Village. The elegant fine dining room features fresh seafood, steak and creative regional cuisine
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A post shared by George’s at the Cove (@georgesatthecove) on Sep 17, 2016 at 12:27pm PDT. La Jolla is a quaint, idyllic California beach town right on the coast. The award for the best views during a fish taco experience goes to George’s At The Cove.
Dining with a View: San Diego's Best Waterfront Restaurants
One standout is George's at the Cove in La Jolla, where you can enjoy exquisite dishes while gazing out at breathtaking ocean views. The contemporary California cuisine is crafted with the freshest local ingredients, making it a culinary delight.
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Years ago, I had interviewed for a company based in San Diego. The interviewer took me to George’s for lunch and I had been going there ever since!. This restaurant is one of the best places to eat in La Jolla with amazing views and fresh food!
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For lunch, I highly recommend George’s Ocean Terrace. At George’s , you can eat outdoors and overlook the rocky coves that are unique to La Jolla. Be sure to make a reservation, since it’s a very popular spot (and for good reason)!
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For a special occasion dinner, George’s at the Cove is the way to go. This restaurant overlooks the cove (which is hard to come by) and serves up exquisite American cuisine. They offer a course-tasting menu as well.
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The California lifestyle is perfectly reflected at Georges at the Cove. The downstairs level offers modern and upscale dining, while the ocean terrace upstairs is a slightly more relaxed atmosphere.[Learn more]
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Head to the top level at George’s bar in La Jolla California for some great sunset views plus excellent fish tacos. Their Ocean Terrace offers California modern dining with views of the Pacific ocean.
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Food was 3/5 Wayfarer Bread: Order online the day before - so worth it!. 5/5 pastries Dodo Bird Donuts: loved the Vietnamese coffee!. #sandiegoca #foodreview #girlstrip #californialifestyle #restaura
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1250 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037Phone: 858-454-4244 Visit Website. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by George’s at the Cove (@georgesatthecove)
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The food is a little nicer end, but since it is outdoors you won't even get a second glance about having kids with you.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit