Pretty damn nice view of the Pacific Beach here and decided to take myself out after a pretty grueling couple of weeks of work, which included weekends. I like my work immensely, but also need to recharge too. My motto in life is, "work hard, play harder, you only got this one life, make it count." I asked chatGPT to find me a place in Del Mar that has sick ocean views and no matter how I asked chatGPT this question, Jake's kept popping up as number one. I needed some lunch so came in here after 3pm, and it was closer to happy hour. As soon as you walk in, you just see the ocean and it just calms you. I sat down at the bar and it wasnt too busy but with a few people. This place is for grown ups, so act like one. It had a laid back, ocean vibe so very relaxed for sure. Bartender very professional, and very courteous. Poured me a blonde to get started and gave me time to chose my food. There is happy hour here but not too many selections. Today, it was choices of some of flatbreads and a salad and I wasnt interested. Happy hour only Mon - Wed anyways. I wasnt terribly hungry so ordered the ceviche. I love fish, doesn't matter how you make it, as long as its good, I will like it. Ceviche was spot on fresh and yummy and appreciate a bit of avocado added. It was the perfect snack, while watching the ocean view and washing it all down with an ice cold blonde. A perfect gown up way to spend the afternoon celebrating life and how gorgeous Mother Nature is. There is valet parking here which is $8 and peak times $10. I was able to find free 2 hour parking on the street though. Bathroom was clean and everything about this place would bring me back in again. I cant wait to show off this place to friends and family when they come visit me! read more

Jake's - Ceviche- fresh and tasty, I would order again! - New American Near Me - Del Mar, California

I've come here on weekdays for both lunch and dinner. It's always popular even during the week, so I can't imagine how it is on weekends. The servers here are really nice. I also was asking about wine and I appreciated our server's very honest opinions on the wine. He helped us select a wine that we all really enjoyed. Mussels: 7/10. I don't get mussels often but these were delicious. There were some mussels I was a little skeptical of eating because they weren't super opened up. I really enjoyed the broth on this one. The broth is excellent with some bread. Brussels sprouts: 7/10. Good but nothing special. Ahi tostada: 8/10. I really enjoyed this but it's not super big. Ahi sashimi: 9/10. Light and delicious. The yuzu shoyu is really good on the ahi. Ceviche: 7/10. Good but nothing super stand out. Lemon garlic roasted fish: 7/10. This is light and delicious. I think the squid ink vinaigrette is kind of cool, and it gives the dish another layer of complexity that I appreciate. Hula pie: 8/10. Only a few places do a hula pie, so whenever I see it, I know we have to get it. It's delicious as always. I don't think this is necessarily a bad thing because at least it means it doesn't melt fast, but it was pretty frozen, so we needed to ask for a knife to cut into it so we could all share it. It's impossible without a knife unless you wait for it to melt. The views are phenomenal here for most of the places you can sit in the restaurant. There are windows everywhere for you to see the beautiful ocean. I think the view is a huge part of why this place is successful. Jake's only has valet parking, but there is also limited free parking along the streets. read more

Came here as a recommendation from an uber driver as I am visiting for work. Hostess weren't friendly, server wasn't attentive, and food was very mid. Came in and had to wait for the hostess to stop laughing for them to acknowledge me, then my server took awhile to ask if I wanted dessert after I was done eating for awhile (I had to push my plate away from me and wait until she noticed). I'm not sure if it's because I was only a party of 1 that I didn't get attentive service, but when I received the food, I was never checked on once. The table next to me actually seemed to have great service and an attentive server. I got the spicy margarita (not great), calamari (sauce was cheap and the calamari itself was rubbery), the lemon garlic roasted fish (okay but nothing amazing), lastly the hula pie (actually very good). It seems like a place where you spend a good penny on as it's right on the beach for okay food and service, which is very disappointing ): I finished as much as I could because I hate wasting especially for the price, just wish I had a similar experience as other people in the reviews. read more

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The location, atmosphere and view is what brings you here. Staff is very nice. Food is decent- not great. The parking is limited to valet.

Here again for my birthday on a warm Hawaiian feeling day. Love the Hula Pie and this view. Came here for a delicious Sunday brunch. We had reservations but waited an extra 20 minutes to get a table by the window. The host at first didn't sit us by the window after our wait. I then said, "What about that table by the window?" She replied, "There are people waiting for that table." I shared I thought that was us. She then told us to walk to the front of the restaurant to figure it out. I guess she got the OK and we got the table we waited for. It's worth the wait, although most of the tables are great. Of course we'll be back. read more

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Amazing!!!:D this espresso martini is by far the BEST! IVE EVER HAD! The coconut purée was house made! The burger was perfectly cooked! And nothing beats their Brussels sprouts Come here during sunset! The views are incredible! The interior design of this place really ties in the perfect beach vibes! The bartenders make incredible drinks and are very attentive!! read more

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This was the best dinner we have had in a long time. Service was super attentive and the food was spot on. We started the meal with the Brussels sprouts and calamari. The calamari was so light and crisp but the slightly spicy chili sauce was the star. Best calamari I've ever had! For dinner, we had the scallops and ahi tuna. The ahi was seasoned to perfection and the sides were also great, but the best dish of the night was the scallops. They were perfectly seared and silky on the inside. We finished the meal with the Hula Pie which we split between 3 people. It was delicious and I especially loved the spork it was served with. All in all, a great dinner and we will definitely be back! read more

Jake's - Hula Pie with the dessert-specific spork! - New American Near Me - Del Mar, California

One star awarded for the gorgeous view. Brunch however- not so gorgeous. Food was actively off-putting. My company reported that the avocado toast was, to word it nicely, hard to eat. Bread was stale and avocado was nowhere to be found. Huevos rancheros were "mediocre, at best." Among the array of floppy eggs Benedicts and sans-avocado toasts was the stomachable seafood chowder. Hip-hip! Horray! Anyways, I will not be returning to Jake's anytime soon. Certainly not for brunch. read more

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Food: Great service and nice patio setting. Ordered Calamari for an appetizer,. At first I thought they were bringing mozzarella sticks but the calamari is in strips, heavily breaded with a sweet sauce, it's good. I ordered the cosmetics chowder with bread, it was delicious. My friend ordered the short ribs with mashed potatoes. We both ordered drinks and finished our dinner with dessert, ice cream mud pie, it was delicious! Service: Excellent, friendly and professional Ambiance: Beautiful views if in the patio Noteworthy: Valet available since e parking is difficult in the street read more

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Everything about my experience at Jake's was amazing. The views, the food, and the service were all top notch. Our beverages and food all came out reasonably quick. Will definitely be going back again read more

Jake's - Filet Mignon* braised beef, mashed potatoes, scallops - New American Near Me - Del Mar, California

Just in terms of scenery, Jake's here in Del Mar, CA is an utter winner. With waves breaking and surfers surfing a stones throw from you table, makes this Ex-Californian very happy to be back. This beach town enclave is "Surf City"! Jake's has a fun playful menu. I opted for their * ahi poke bowl sesame soy dressing, onion, avocado, spicy sesame cucumber salad, kimchi, fresno chili, jasmine rice and my wife had their * ceviche lime marinated fresh fish, cilantro, jalapeño, red onion, cucumber, avocado, shaved fresno chili, tortilla chips roasted beet sala Everything was very good. The service was nice and the ambiance was, I think I covered that. read more

Whole experience was awesome! Got a great table by a window - can't beat a dining experience with a breeze and a view! Went with a group of 5 and everyone loved their drinks and meal! We shared a lot of the apps - all of which were great! And of course, can't skip dessert! I would recommend this place and go back the next time I'm back in San Diego! read more

Jake's - Hula Pie - New American Near Me - Del Mar, California

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The food here was delicious hands down. You can tell every dish they make is fresh with fresh ingredients. I got the salad and it was soooo good. Everything you get here is top tier. It's on the pricier side but I think it's worth it. The views are beautiful, the service is quick. It's a perfect spot for a date night or a date lunch read more

Jake's - New American Near Me - Del Mar, California

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Where do I start? This is the spot if you're looking for a good time chilling at the bar, or bring your date out for a romantic dinner around sunset! And if that is the plan, get there a little early and ask for a window seat. Keep in mind, depending on time, the party before you may hang back for dessert and watch the sunset prior to leaving, and to be honest, I don't blame them lol. One other disclaimer, Valet parking here is less expensive at $10, versus public parking across the street for $26 for 2 hours. Now onto Jake's, from the moment we walked in, the greeters were very nice and welcoming! We sat at the Bar while we waited for our window seat, the bartender was cool, and knowledgeable about the drinks, and our 2 drinks were dangerously tasty! Our server when we got seated to the busboy were all friendly, our server Juda was very knowledgeable about the menu explained everything to the "T", and explained the off the menu specials to my wife and I, that made us want to actually try a few of the items (pictured in my post). The view of the ocean by our seat, to the food, to the vibe were all A+. Would definitely be back, when we're back in the area. Thank You! read more

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Jake's is a staple in my restaurant rotation! I can always count on great service, wonderful ambiance and delicious food. We started with the brussel sprouts which are SO insanely wonderful then had some of the prosciutto wrapped prawns which were good. I ordered the spice crusted ahi which was cooked perfectly, our server Todd was happy to accommodate my request for no rice, extra veggies. We finished off with the cheesecake which was exceptional (which you don't really expect with a restaurant cheesecake to be honest). Overall such a wonderful place that I keep coming back to. read more

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Service continues to be top notch. The amazing ocean view (especially during lunch service) is something that's hard to find in north county. Caprese sandwich with bacon was yummy, but really messy to eat. I'd stick with seafood next time. Calamari appetizer is still amazing too. read more

We have been to Jake's several times for brunch, but not for dinner. With as much coastline as SD County has, there aren't a lot of good restaurants on the beach - especially that are at a decent price point - but Jake's is in such a nice spot! The traffic around there can be a nightmare, so plan to go a little earlier than you think you should. They do offer valet parking for a fee, which we have used some of the times we went. Once you get in though, the views are very nice. I suggest making reservations, especially if you want a closer seat to the windows. Overall I think the food there is always pretty good, and the brunch prices are reasonable. The service can be hit or miss, but most times it's been good. Jake's is a great place to take those out of town visitors who want to take in all the ocean views. Hopefully we will make it for dinner one of these days! read more

Jake's - New American Near Me - Del Mar, California

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I don't come here often, but when I do I always look forward to it and I enjoy bringing out-of-towners here. That said, my most recent experience, which included two of my cousins from the East Coast where there was just a huge snowstorm, could have been better and I was torn between giving it 3 stars or 4 stars. I made a reservation for three through Open Table and confirmed it with a phone call to the restaurant. I'd requested a table by the window, if possible, and was told that those tables are first-come, first-served and cannot be reserved. I was also told that because my reservation was for 11:30am, which is when the restaurant opens, getting a table by the window should not be a problem. When my party arrived, there were just two parties of 2 or 3 people each ahead of us. We followed the hostess/server to the window seating, and while the other two parties were were being seated in the center area of the window where the view is most gorgeous, our person led us to the table all the way to the side where part of the view is obstructed. I asked for a table in the middle, near where the other parties were being set up, and the employee said, "They have reservations." I told her I have a reservation too. I also told her that the tables are supposed to be first-come, first-served. She set us up where we wanted to sit, but I didn't enjoy going through that. One cousin ordered the Ahi Poke Bowl, requested a couple of substitutions, and really enjoyed what she had. My other cousin ordered the veggie burger version of the Chef's Burger and really enjoyed what he had. I ordered the Caprese Sandwich and did not enjoy it. The wild arugula was in pieces too big to eat, the burrata cheese was runny, and every bite was a mess. I anticipated the tomato would be ripe and sliced. What I got in both halves of the sandwich was the top part of a big hard tomato and it was partially green. It looked like what you get when you slice off the top of a thick bell pepper and cut out the center where the seeds are. It was so hard, it was inedible. I'm glad that my cousins really enjoyed their meals, loved the view, and felt this was a wonderful place to come. I'd come here again, and now I know what not to order. read more

This is, and always has been, one of my favorite places in all of San Diego. The first went here with my wife back in 2002. It was amazing then and it's still amazing now. We went to Jake's last week with a big party from work, and the service was fantastic, and the food was as good as I remember it. I'd highly recommend this to anyone visiting. read more

Jake's - New American Near Me - Del Mar, California

My review is based on my lunch experience. I came here for lunch today. On a Thursday. Got seated right away in the back by the windows. Beautiful beach views. I ordered calamari to start and Burger with fries. The calamari was amazing. My server Tia said it was delicious and it sure is. The server is very hospitable. The calamari was nice and crispy and not chewy. The Birger was ordered medium. It was cooked perfect with avocado. I saw it in a picture and it didn't disappoint. The fries were crispy and seasoned just right. I definitely want to come back for dinner read more

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Had our Anniversary lunch there, ordered short ribs n coleslaw, Sashimi plate. The portion was large considering it's an Appetizer. Will go back again the view of the Pacific Ocean was so nice read more

I've been to Jake's a few times for lunch, and while the view of the ocean is wonderful, the food seems very average and a bit pricey. The restaurant has a nice ambiance, and service is usually friendly. Last time, I had the mixed seafood pot which was decent but a bit bland and nothing special. My husband had the lemon garlic roasted fish, which was just a tiny piece of fish (I think he was still hungry afterwards). However, it seemed like the mai tai our friend had was pretty good/refreshing. The valet parking was convenient. The restaurant gets pretty busy and it'd probably be good to make a reservation (especially on weekends). read more

Jake's - New American Near Me - Del Mar, California

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On a total spur of the moment, we decided to just have a look. It Looked great , No reservation and we had a table for two in a corner with an Ocean view. We had seared Halibut over Jasmine Rice and the Roasted Beef tips. Just an excellent place to dine with the whole Beach Vibe around you. It's not inexpensive, but worth the Price. Every step was First Class. Right Next to Powerhouse Beach Park Valet and street parking. We were already parked so it was simple. Pay the meter. read more

Jake's - view from our table - New American Near Me - Del Mar, California

First time at Jake's! A couple of friends visiting from San Francisco took me there for a fantastic seafood diner with a view to celebrate my birthday (is past two weeks but always open to be celebrated ). The restaurant is stunning, clean, views to the ocean from every corner, cozy and classy. Our a server was a young lady with long hair very attentive and fast service. We ordered a bunch of things to share and our only disappointment was the salad with cucumber, watermelon and blueberries. What we thought was going to be an exotic salad looked more like a non cohesive blend. We did not like it to start with because we expected the watermelon and cucumber to be very cold and also fresh (the color of the cucumber was not attractive, like was seating at the kitchen for a while). Maybe that salad should be offered as dessert instead. My favorite were the shishito peppers with brussel sprouts as well as the fish with black mole sauce. Shrimp dish was very shareable and very delicious too. Very good first experience and very happy to have friends who love me so much to treat me better than I treat them! read more

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Had dinner here with coworkers at night. Was seated at a round table on an elevated platform where we were able to see the waves on the beach through the windows. Service was amazing! Food came out quickly and at the same time. Waiter recommended the scallops. 4 of us ordered this dish and we all loved it. We received a complimentary hula pie and a large pineapple slice decorated with an umbrella stick for the group. Was so good. A huge slice enough for all 6 of us to enjoy. We didn't have reservations but they were able to seat us right away. There is a parking lot across the restaurant, you must pay. Be sure to place your ticket on the dash of your car so you don't get ticketed. I purchased my ticket and did not place on my dash and still had to pay ticket :( I would recommend parking the restaurant's valet. It's $10 which was cheaper than the parking lot across the street or find side street metered parking. This is my 3rd time here, always a nice view. Restaurant is right on the beach. You can take a nice walk to the beach and burn some calories after your meal. We also paired our meal with a Santa Barbara white wine which was perfect with the scallops. TY Jake's Del Mar! read more

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The food , service , and whole vibe of the restaurant was great ! Definitely worth a visit and also has an amazing view ! read more

Jake's - Surfing Steak - New American Near Me - Del Mar, California

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We had a wonderful date night! The atmosphere is pretty laid back for a nice restaurant. The beachside setting contributes to that. $10 valet parking out front. We were seated quickly with our reservation. Our waiter was great! He knew the menu thoroughly. And took a ton of care with my nut allergy (even suggesting I don't do anything fried because they do fry macadamians in an appetizer). We had cocktails that were delicious and well balanced. The ceviche had great flavor and texture. And the surf and turf was great. The horseradish potatoes were notably good. We'll certainly be back for a special night out. read more

Jake's - Meztcal martini cocktail - New American Near Me - Del Mar, California

Came here for brunch. Best thing about it? The view as it's right on the beach. Food - not too impressive. At least not the tacos. It lacked flavor, didn't help that the salsa on the tacos were made with bell peppers rather than jalapeños. Service was decent but nothing to brag about. read more

The calamari was excellent. Giant squid cut in stripes. Most restaurants give you the tentacles. Brunch was very good. Freshly made. The service was excellent and staff were friendly. The Hula desert was great. Completed the brunch. read more

Jake's - Hula Pie - New American Near Me - Del Mar, California

If you're looking for a spot right on the water, Jake's is a great option! We came here for the first time recently and really enjoyed our visit. We got seated outside which was nice but unfortunately we didn't have a view of the ocean. However, there is a walkway from the restaurant directly on to the beach. The service was great throughout our whole meal. Food wise, delicious! We started with the ceviche which was so tasty. I ordered the Scallops and my wife ordered the Surfing Steak. Everything tasted fantastic! Even the kids meals were good sizes. It is a little pricey but it's also directly on the beach. The inside was nice and had beautiful views. Valet parking is only $10 if you can't find street parking. Overall, we really enjoyed our dinner here! read more

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We visited Jake's while on vacation and had a phenomenal experience! I was looking for a beach view and scallops on the menu and ChatGPT recommended Jake's. While waiting for our table we grabbed a drink and the bar and the bartender went above and beyond- something as simple as squeezing the lime in my beer is such a nice touch! When we got seated our server Trey was wonderful from start to finish. We enjoyed the crab cake appetizer and scallop and swordfish entrees. Every bite was the best we've had. We were celebrating my birthday and even got a delicious ice cream cake! If it wasn't clear already, I highly recommend Jake's Del Mar! I will plan my next trip to Cali around this location simply to go back! read more

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We had a great New Year's Eve day celebration dinner at Jake's!! We had early reservations in a terrestrial downpour but got in and hostess seated within 5 minutes We were seated in an outside covered patio with lots of heaters very comfortable. Our server McKenzie was fantastic!! Brought our mocktails and order in first thing suggests the special Sea Bass which was delicious as well as the Filet w/Shrimp seasoned to perfection!! Desserts and lattes were a special treat. Definitely suggest to try the gem read more

Jakes is like that cool dude who hangs out with all the young people. I been coming here since Jesus was a boy. Still the same ole same ole: good food, great service, good vibes and yes the gold diggers still at the bar. love this place. Ciiiaaaaaoooo read more

Jake's - Baja Fish Tacos - New American Near Me - Del Mar, California

Service was outstanding. Ambience sounds amazing.? I ordered the Seabass, which was fair. It was dry and it comes on purée butternut squash, which I subbed mashed potatoes, which were great. They need to lose the Keyl. All and all very nice read more

Beautiful view of the ocean! Great place to grab some cocktails at the large bar. Full covered patio option or inside where they have a lot of booths and tables. The menu wasn't as big as I had hoped, not many vegetarian options, but I had the eggs and hard tortillas with pico. The strawberry salad looked really good. Parking is very limited, valet only for $8. There is metered parking available or the lot across the street starting at $30. Service was great, very quick. read more

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We had a good time here and enjoyed the afternoon view of the ocean. I'm only knocking a couple stars because of our entrees. Our server was super cool and attentive, the prices were good, and the drinks were ok. They seemed a little weak, but tasted good. The ahi tostadas were perfect, the daily special halibut was oddly mushy, but had a good flavor, and the daily special steak flavors didn't jive that well and it wasn't that tender. I grabbed a burger to go a couple of days later and it smoked both of those dishes. I wish we would have went with our original order of a burger and the surfing steak before the daily specials were presented to us. I'll definitely stop her again and explore the menu. read more

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Let's just say we come down to the Del Mar area a couple of times a year, and we died in many restaurants and this is our favorite. We even had the same waiter who is a really nice fellow with a beard. We sat with an ocean view, and even though it was dark, you can see the waves because they have floodlights outside. It's been a while since we died there but each time we've had a great experience. The cocktails are excellent. The wine list is great, and the food is delicious. The waiter is happy to offer suggestions. Oh yeah, and the dessert too. We definitely will be back here and always recommend recommended to friends who are visiting the area. read more

Came here on a Friday night and we had a reservation at 8:00. We got seated pretty quick and the host was so nice! She walked us back to one of the best tables (closest to the ocean) and the view was phenomenal! Our server was so friendly and knowledgeable about each dish! Food came out promptly and perfect! Overall a great experience and look forward to coming back soon! read more

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Absolutely love this place. Amazing food and service. The view was so beautiful and literally the sunset. The service was impeccable. read more

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Wow! Such a wonderful experience! Our server, Megan, was outstanding. She made it easy to accommodate dietary restrictions and needs without making us feel like a burden! She was splendid. I cannot recommend the Mixed Seafood Pot enough! The swordfish was to die for, and the sauce was delicious! I can't wait to come back. read more