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    Duke's La Jolla

    4.1 (4k reviews)
    Closed 11:00 am - 8:30 pm
    Updated over 3 months ago

    Duke's La Jolla Photos

    DUKE'S LA JOLLA ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Casual
    Touristy
    Trendy

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    Recommended Reviews - Duke's La Jolla

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    Reviews With Photos - Duke's La Jolla

    Fish Tacos, Crispy Coconut Shrimp, Korean Sticky Ribs
    Jewelia C.

    * catching up on old backlogged drafts so this review may be a bit out of date After our morning dive we wanted to spend the day at La Jolla so we stopped by Duke's before our beach day to grab a bite to eat! The restaurant was big and we were seated right away. We got drinks and food to share. We got the fish tacos, coconut shrimp, and Korean sticky ribs. They were all yummy but the coconut shrimp was my favorite! The restaurant is located in a nice area walking distance to more shops and the beach!

    Ryan S.

    It's hard to beat a meal with a view like this. The outdoor patio overlooking La Jolla Cove is absolutely spectacular and easily one of the biggest reasons to dine here. While the prices definitely lean toward the higher end, the portions are generous and the food was delicious, so it felt like a worthwhile splurge. The service was a little inconsistent during our visit, with longer stretches between check-ins than I would have preferred, but whenever our server stopped by, they were genuinely friendly and attentive. Between the beautiful setting, great food, and the location in the heart of La Jolla's shopping district, I really enjoyed the experience. It's the kind of place that's as much about the atmosphere as it is the meal, and I'd happily come back for both.

    Crispy Coconut Shrimp
    Shawn S.

    Duke is the most famous Hawaiian and this restaurant is a great representation of him. The location is amazing overlooking the beach. They have a huge location with lots of seating in a beautiful setting and chill vibe. The food is fantastic, very fresh and delicious. Staff are very friendly and helpful. The hula pie is their signature dessert and is huge, enough for at least 3-4 people. All of the dishes were well presented and made with quality ingredients.

    Steak & Eggs
    Caroline C.

    We came from out of town and went on a detour to Dukes based on a recommendation Food: came out fast and fresh and clean Service: very sweet and helpful checked on us frequently Ambiance: you can't beat the view !!

    Tisha S.

    Visited Duke's for Father's Day. The service was excellent. Our server gave great recommendations. The mai tai/lychee martini were top notch, I loved the coconut shrimp, my husband really enjoyed his fish and chips, and the pie was excellent. The view is so pretty. Just a really great time all around.

    Julianne G.

    Visited La Jolla cove and wanted a light dinner and a drink. Our friend had recommended this place so we made reservations on a Sunday at 5ish and had no problem. They have a bar upstairs that had a burger special, but we sat downstairs and had a nice view of the ocean. We were well taken care of by our waiter, Jacob. I ordered a mojito which was so good and refreshing, and ordered the crab cakes which were also very good. They had an amazing meyer lemon remoulade sauce and pickled seaweed on the side which was amazing. My friend and I split the rocket salad with beets and goat cheese, and it was good as well. Our whole group split a hula pie for dessert. Very yummy with extra chocolate sauce and macadamia nuts. I would definitely go here again!!

    Breanna A.

    I've been to the Duke location in Malibu and since visiting SD was able to snag a day of dinner reservation. Quickly sat once arrived and got a beautiful view overlooking the water. It was a chilly night but nearby heaters kept us cozy. I tried the lavender pina colada - tasty and refreshing, we all shared the crispy coconut shrimp and crab wontons. I ordered the roasted lobsters - I can never say no to a lobster. And for dessert the three of us shared a slice of hula pie - perfect end to the night. A great meal at Dukes!

    From our Corner Table
    Marshall G.

    Update We returned on a packed house night. The teriyaki steak was great again and i had the fish of the day. Swordfish. Excellent Ambience. Total Surf Vibe.

    Hula Pie
    Sara R.

    I made a reservation through OpenTable in advance and requested a table near the ocean/glass, and they delivered! Our server was wonderful. The kids enjoyed their kids activity booklets (this is a very kid and adult friendly restaurant, which was perfect for us). We loved being outside near the water, watching the seals from afar, enjoying our drinks and food. I ordered the kiwi mojito and it was delicious! We had the coconut shrimp appetizer, the poke bowl, fried chicken bowl, and 2 kids meals (fish and chips and the chicken fingers), ending our meal with a slice of their famous hula pie!

    Happy 31st anniversary to us!!!!
    Peter I.

    Dukes was stop one on our 24 hour whirl wind anniversary trip. Right on the main strip in La Jolla and unbelievable ocean views made even better by great service from Gracie. We've been to I think every Dukes on the planet and we love this one. So you have to start with their famous mai tai. That drink combined with the view is just the perfect start to a great 24 hours. We had the pork wontons delicious. My wife had a crab and shrimp salad equally delicious and I had the Famous Dukes burger, which I loved so is the perfect first stop on this crazy 24 hours.

    Michelle V.

    Beautiful outdoor patio! We've tried another location in Hawaii and stopped by and got the same plate here and loved it! We tried the tuna tacos as an appetizer- delicious! We shared the rib and chicken plate for lunch and it is a great portion - comes with sides too - great deal and super good! Service was great - also tried the mocktail with ginger beer and loved it!

    Jenn V.

    stunning ocean views and relaxed, beachy atmosphere.. Service is friendly and attentive, making every visit feel special. Whether you're stopping by for a casual lunch or a sunset dinner.

    Key Lime Pie
    Nancyrae S.

    Visiting from Houston and this was OUR MOST FAVORITE meal while here! LOVED IT! The location is cute, quaint and scenic. Our brunch was breezy, right on the water, but the heaters helped. The hummus appetizer was DELICIOUS! We had the avocado toast, crab cake eggs Benedict and coconut crust french toast. Not a single bad choice. And of course adult beverages to start the day. Although stuffed...we shared the fudgy ice cream and key like pie. Our waiter, Nathan, was fun! He wasn't expecting us...and we hope we made his day.

    Farmers omelet

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    25 days ago

    Beautiful spot on the water. Great views from the patio, and we had nice drinks and service. But the food was just ok.

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    Page 1 of 101

    Duke's La Jolla Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Duke's La Jolla

    Will they make brunch item on weekday?

    Best to call. Christmas Season!

    What is the cost of valet parking?

    We didn't have to valet park as there was plenty of street parking so I'm not sure. Lots of metered parking all around.

    Is parking difficult for disabled?

    There's street parking for handicapped but it's not easy to nab a spot. We had to park 2 blocks away and roll there.

    Does Duke's air sports on tv?

    I'm pretty sure I remember TV's at the bar.

    Is the restaurant dog friendly?

    I have been there several times and have never seen a dog in tow. It is kinda fancy , and there are stairs. Also , it is open to the water , so may not be very safe for a dog.

    What is the price for Sunday brunch?

    Price is a la cart.

    Do you take reservations?

    Yes! Make reservations on Open Table!… Read more

    Do they take walk-ins or must be a reservation?

    They take walk ins. But it's better to do it during the week.

    Do they serve breakfast food during the weekdays?

    I would say no... they open at 11

    Any vegan options?

    zero options. they were able to remove the cheese and sour cream from the nachos... so for $13 you can get tortilla chips with 2 tablespoons of black beans and a tiny scoop of salsa and guacamole.

    Is dukes dog friendly?

    No dogs allowed :(

    Hi I tried to call for reservations but no one picked?

    I made my reservation online. Try using their Website or open table.

    Can I make a reservation?

    Yes, we usually make reservations because they can get busy.

    Is Duke's dog friendly?

    No dogs. Keep them at home.

    Do I need to make a reservation for this weekend? Thank you

    Restaurants with ocean view outdoor patios are at a premium during the pandemic. You could get in, but don't take a chance. Use Open Table-- very easy.

    Do they still have happy hour during COVID? I don't see it on their website

    No, as of 8/18/20 they are not doing happy hour.

    How is the parking? Do you have to pay or is it validated?

    Park on the street, or at the local paid parking lots.

    Do we have to reserve an outside table?

    You can try, but it's not always guaranteed.

    Do I need to make a reservation if I want to sit outside during happy hour on Friday?

    Upstairs outside is first come first serve no reservations

    Do you need to have a minimum amount of people to make a reservation?

    No, just call or make it online

    View All 45 Questions

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    Sugar and Scribe

    Sugar and Scribe

    4.3
    (3.1k reviews)
    0.5 mi
    $$
    Women-owned & operated
    Outdoor seating

    We enjoyed our brunch at Sugar and Scribe in La Jolla, CA…read more This was my second time dining at this restaurant and was as delicious as the first time. Chef Maeve Rochford, the owner of Sugar & Scribe won Season 2 of Food Network's Holiday Baking Championship. She is also known for competing on Food Network's Beat Bobby Flay and Kids Baking Championship. We recommend trying the following: *Butter Poached Lobster Benedict with Poached eggs, Maine Lobster, Arugula, Parsley hollandaise with side of potatoes and bacon. *Blueberry Love Pancakes with blueberry compote, snow sugar and white chocolate mousse. Both orders were excellent 5/5 stars. I tried the Horchata Latte but couldn't really taste the horchata and wasn't sweet enough for me. I wouldn't order this latte again, but maybe y'all would enjoy the flavor better. The restaurant has outdoor seating with heating lamps and welcomes well behaved dogs in their outdoor patio. We had excellent customer service and look forward to coming back! Give this place a try! Happy Yelping :)

    This was are first time here, a big line it took a bit to wait to put our name…read more Then it was 20 min wait by phone So we walk around and found a cute shop We walked back and we were the next after the people ahead of. We were sat up stairs and very cute inside Very floral with velvet chairs very cute and good service too. Food was a kickin Karina burrito And I had the loaded blueberry oats I enjoyed chai, almonds & blueberries with a big bowl loaded. We enjoyed the food But this was when it changed As I was waiting in line for the restroom I'm watching 2 girls making drinks One of them dropped a cap on the floor and picked it up and put it back on the bottle without washing it and acted like it was fine I looked at the floor it was dirty!!!!!! I couldn't believe what I saw. I was glad I didn't order a coffee or champagne It was a whip cream metal cap that was on the floor

    Photos
    Honeyed Berry Toast. Chocolate love Tart
    Honeyed Berry Toast. Chocolate love Tart
    Shrimp & Grits
    Shrimp & Grits
    Shrimp and Grits and Lobster Benedict

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    Shrimp and Grits and Lobster Benedict
    Shorehouse Kitchen

    Shorehouse Kitchen

    4.3
    (2.4k reviews)
    1.1 mi
    $$

    Food was amazing. Nice robust flavor from the béarnaise…read moresauce on the Salmon Benedict. Waiter was very pleasant. He asked what kind of side of toast did I want with my Benedict, I responded with "oh? There's toast included? Maybe Rye?" And he said "oh no, my apologies, it doesn't come with toast". I must have had a really sad look on my face when I said "oh ok". because he said "you know what, I'll throw in a side of complimentary toast". Anyways, great little niche close to the ocean. Nice light cool breeze. Street Parking was easy to find

    This is a cute little cafe to have brunch at. They have a variety of coffees, fresh pressed juices,…read moreand booze if you're in the mood. They have patio seating outside so you can soak in the sun, people watch, and enjoy a nice meal. I lovedddd the caramelized Tahitian vanilla French toast! It had a little crunch from the caramelization of the vanilla on the French toast. We added the strawberry, blueberry, and chantilly cream to it. Perfect blend of sweet, tangy, fluffy, with a little crunch. Definitely a good sweet treat to start the day. I got a spinach, Swiss cheese, bacon omelet. The hash browns were pretty good! Crunchy, salty, and went well with the eggs. I was hoping for more of a coffee flavor in the white mocha. They make the whipped cream from scratch. The mocha was mid. I would say this place is a lil over a 4 star place. The beach bowl is an açaí bowl on top of Greek yogurt. I thought it was a little too tangy for my taste. I think having either the yogurt or açaí bowl works better than mixing the two.

    Photos
    Shorehouse Kitchen
    Pork carnitas poblano cornbread benny
    Pork carnitas poblano cornbread benny
    Banana walnut bread  Mocha with oat milk

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    Banana walnut bread Mocha with oat milk
    Blue Whale

    Blue Whale

    3.8
    (462 reviews)
    0.4 mi
    $$
    Locally owned & operated
    Gluten-free friendly

    My friends and I were staying in San Diego over the weekend for the fourth of July. We needed a…read moreplace with food that would revive us for the journey home and my review sidekick, Meg, found Blue Whale! The line was long but for good reason. The food, coffee, and vibes were unmatched. We ordered quickly, snagged a table, and waited for our food. I'm not a big coffee drinker, but my friends did say the coffee was some of the best they've have. And Megs KNOWS coffee. I got the Big Wave Burrito and I could cry thinking about how good this was. Avocado, eggs, cheese, hash browns, bacon, and a slice of heaven wrapped up in the best flour tortilla that was crisped to perfection. The best spot to grab a bite and head to Seal Beach when you're done :)

    I used to like this place but had a recent visit this last Saturday that just really put me off…read more The line was pretty crazy so we ordered pickup. The instructions in the pickup site and text were to wait until the staff lets you know it's ready. We waited outside for 40 mins before I walked in to check and saw my bag with my food on the counter. I asked one of the staff if this was ready for pickup and she had rudely told me that next time I need to let the staff know I'm here. Um...im not sure if they forgot to update the status of my order to let me know that but how would I know? Then they made my drinks after I asked another staff member that I was still waiting on my drinks and those came out in the next five mins but to be honest they were mid. The breakfast burrito was good though, but service was bad. Just another hyped up spot thanks to tiktok...

    Photos
    Blue Whale
    Blue Whale
    Blue Whale

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    Duke's La Jolla - newamerican - Updated July 2026

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