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The Marine Room

3.9 (2.1k reviews)
Open • 4:30 pm - 9:00 PM

Services - The Marine Room

Catering services

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THE MARINE ROOM ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Moderate noise
Romantic
Upscale
Classy

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Recommended Reviews - The Marine Room

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Scallops
Joe M.

Beautiful view, great service, classy restaurant. My wife and I enjoyed our dinner very much. The Thai curry crab soup wasn't our favorite but the waiter quickly replaced it with the lobster bisque which was much more our taste. We enjoyed all the other parts of our meal and would definitely come back if in the area.

Menu as of 3/22/26
Michelle R.

One of the classic places in San Diego! We've known about this place for years and it wasn't until this week that we finally made plans to check it out. We snagged early reservations at 4:30pm Sunday which was right when they opened. That's the best way to secure a table next to the window. You're literally on the beach Tip: our server suggested with high tide being June, July and August times that they suggest to pre-book in advance since that's a popular time to experience the restaurant with the high tide coming up to the glass windows. After reading other reviews, I was worried about a possible fish smell but we didn't experience that at all so I wonder if it was just something in the air since that can happen in San Diego. No fish market smell PARKING we got super lucky with street parking but noticed they have a $15 valet parking out front that opens when the restaurant does FOOD -The focaccia table bread with the butter & volcanic salt is SO good! We got a few rounds of that. -We shared the Endive salad which had perfectly picked vegetables. The salad was a little tricky to eat but was still delicious -I had the truffle risotto -my husband had the roasted chicken -we shared a few sides: truffle root fries, carrots and mushrooms. They were all tasty!

Entrance to the Marine Room.
Jason B.

Took my wife here for a weekend getaway. We were excited to have dinner here and enjoy the ambiance. Service from our waiter was mediocre. As we were leaving my wife asked me to take a picture of her by the lounge area when the head waiter asked us if I had paid for our dinner. I replied yes I gave our waiter 2 $100 bills. And he walked away. He should have done his due diligence and asked our waiter first if we had settled our bill before approaching us. Me and my wife was embarrassed since many people were around. We will never come back here and definitely not recommend this place to friends and family. We actually drove 2 hours to have dinner here to just be disrespected. We were insulted/humiliated by this. The only nice person was the Valet guy.

View from the lounge
Lisa C.

I highly recommend dining in the lounge area at the Marine Room restaurant in La Jolla. This is a special occasion restaurant and I saw many people celebrating birthdays. The main dining room can be a bit pricey and sometimes the portions are small. The lounge area has a late night menu that starts around 8 PM till closing, and you can also eat anything off of the main menu from the dining room. I thoroughly enjoyed the lobster roll and the dip that comes with it is heavenly creamy and a perfect combination to dip your lobster roll in. Think a French dip sandwich except make it seafood. It was the best lobster roll I've ever had and almost tasted like a crab sandwich with butter from heaven! The Chardonnay that comes from the tasting menu off of the evening menu was so crisp and delicious. I highly recommend it! It's not a full glass of wine but more than a tasting, but it worked out great for us because we were just eating small bites after having a very large lunch. My favorite thing that I ate, however, has to be their mud pie that I had for dessert. It was supremely delicious. However, I hate to admit that if you have a strong sense of smell then it might be challenging for you because this restaurant smells like a fish market. It was hard to get used to at first, but then when my wine arrived and after two or three sips, for some reason, the smell didn't bother me as much. I know that the menu is mostly seafood so it makes sense but I've never smelled a seafood restaurant that smells like this. Someone in our party doesn't eat fish and seafood so they had a really hard time adjusting to the smell. But if you like fish and love, beautiful ocean views then I highly recommend this elegant restaurant. Another cool thing about this restaurant was learning about its history in the lobby through its many newspaper clippings, and historical recollections. The Marine Room was originally built in 1916 as the Spindrift Inn, before being transformed into the iconic restaurant that opened on May 29th, 1941. The Kellogg family, specifically Frederick W. Kellogg, took over the property in 1935 developing it into the famous La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club complex, which included the Marine Room restaurant.

Peruvian Crudo
Alma Z.

Had the absolute pleasure of dining here as part of our anniversary celebrations with my husband and it was wonderful! We were not there during high tide so we did not get the drama of the waves crashing against the windows but since we had our little one with us I think that was actually better. The focaccia and butter starters were a great way to start our meal We ordered the trout tartare and the Peruvian crudo and they were delicious! The tartare was slightly more lemon forward with a stronger fish taste while the crudo is sweeter and just melts in your mouth. I still think about it months later. The textures were all perfect and the flavors were all well balanced. The filet mignon was tender and flavorful though the peppercorn sauce was sweeter than I like. The cauliflower purée was wonderful and I liked that there was a roasted cauliflower on top as well. The bone marrow was also a generous portion. The Brussels sprouts were the unexpected stars of the meal for me. They were so soft and caramelized. I could have had 3 more servings they were delicious! If you like Brussels sprouts I highly recommend you try these. Our server was super sweet and even brought us a slice of cake for our anniversary I wish I remembered her name but she was such a great server.

Tasmanian Ocean Trout
Cheryle L.

A San Diego staple. I use to love coming here many years ago. Last night was the first in at least 8-10 years. Great location and one of the most beautiful views (esp during high tide). Came here last night for my friend's birthday! The service was good - Rich was our server. The seafood options were solid but not "OMG amazing" but solid. It was nice to hear most of the seafood options are gluten free! Huge plus. I ordered the tuna tataki - 8.5/10 for me (could have added more tuna for a better value - the tuna slices were small) but flavor and texture was excellent. My friend ordered the scallops - she liked it 9/10. Another friend ordered the trout with charred brassica, coconut salsa macha, red chile maitake, cassis chayote - it was good except the coconut salsa macha made the trout taste fishy. If you order this - order the coconut salsa macha on the side. Another friend ordered the Blackened swordfish with crawfish etouffee, forbidden rice. She is from the south (Houston, TX) and said the etouffee wasn't great but for California standards - it is what it is. One of my friend's ordered the Thai curry soup for a starter by the way but said it was too salty. For the sides we ordered the Brussels sprouts and mushrooms 10/10 I would come back JUST for that!!!!!!!!! Ohhhh but the focaccia bread, although it wasn't gluten free - I still ate it and it was amazing!!! Hunter also assisted us, I think he was the server assistant? He was AWESOME, fun personality, attentive, and sooo helpful!! He happily acted as our photographer. ahahahha :) Parking: There is valet parking for $15 but there was plenty of street parking for a Sunday night so I just parked on the street. Overall, The Marine Room was cool.

Beef Cheek Ragu
Tiffany C.

The main attraction is definitely the view! Had a reservation for 4:45pm and it was the perfect time. We were able to admire the view in the sunlight and also enjoy the sunset. The food was average nothing too special, the Brussel sprouts were a bit salty for my taste. I would given a 3/5 stars but the service was great which bumped it up to a 4/5.

Heather C.

Phenomenal experience I saw this place with all of the hype on Instagram and TikTok, but I am so happy to say that it was worth every dollar and every minute. This is the definition of a hidden gem even the locals do not know where this is because it's hidden in a residential area. Everything from the service at check-in to the food quality and especially the views (we sat right by the window) were amazing. I ordered the scallops and the other dish was the trout which was recommended by the waitress . Another recommendation by the waitress was the starter fresh albacore tuna absolutely amazing. This was the best sashimi. We could've had word of advice when you come here definitely take the advice of the waitress or waiter. They know what's best. The views alone would make us come back, but I'm so happy to say that the food was also 10 out of 10. Hoping to come back during high tide.

'23 Rosso di Montalcino, Argiano

The view was great from the entrance, whereas the windows facing the water had a lot of bird poops on, so the pictures from my seat weren't as aesthetic. Yet, I enjoyed the sunset. The appetizers and bread/butter were TERRIFIC! We loved those so much. However, the entrees (filet mignon and risotto) and desserts were quite disappointing, especially after the amazing appetizers. The male server in his late 20s or early 30s was very knowledgeable and friendly. He made sure that we had a great time and service! While I understand that tips are customary for the valet, I decided not to tip as they are not mandatory and there was a long wait time. As soon as the tall, lean, middle-aged male attendant learned that he's not getting any tips, he kept yelling at me even after I got into my car. Although I deeply regret for ruining his evening, I am equally disappointed that he decided to ruin mine further.

Shayla S.

Ouuu where to even start?! I had this place on my bucket list for sometime and finally got to stop by on my solo trip to SanDiego! I made my reservation just on time and it was right in a neighborhood area so I nearly missed it lol but wow this restaurant is beautiful the ambiance is amazing! The food was good itself I treated myself to a very nice dinner by being here. Thank you to the staff there! I can say it was a highlight of my SanDiego trip

All 3 of our meals (2 dinner & 1 dessert)

The food was amazing, honestly i'm a picky eater and I enjoyed my meal a lot. Cute date night spot. The price is worth the meal. The service was amazing the waiters were really nice. Overall 12/10 and would go back.

Peruvian Crudo and a view
Ben M.

We came to Marine Room to celebrate my wife's birthday and had an incredible evening. The Peruvian crudo, Tasmanian ocean trout, roast chicken, and chocolate pistachio crunch bar were all outstanding. Every dish delivered. But the real star was our server Lily. She was warm, knowledgeable, and made us feel genuinely special all night. I'd give five stars on her service alone, and the food more than earns the rest. If you're looking for a spot to celebrate something meaningful, this is it. We'll definitely be back.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Japanese A5 Wagyu
Ahmad E.

The Marine Room isn't just a restaurant, but rather a meditative experience. I came here with my girlfriend to celebrate a special night, and from the moment we pulled up to the valet, everything about this place screamed timeless. Instead of an ultra-modern design, we were met with a quaint porch lit up by a stylish neon sign. Looking at the place from outside, you'd have no clue what you were about to witness on stepping inside. This kind of spot that doesn't just rely on its reputation or its oceanfront view to impress, but rather takes your taste buds on a culinary journey, earning its acclaim every step of the way. We got lucky with our timing, arriving just as the sun began to set, lighting the sky up with beautiful shades of orange and purple. If you've never seen the tide rise while you're dining on a steak or a plate of oysters, you haven't truly experienced what coastal dining is supposed to feel like. Between the calming sound of the waves and the candlelight bouncing off the window, this place has the kind of atmosphere where we found our conversation slowing and quieting down... in awe of the setting we had found ourselves in. The service was top-notch from start to finish. Our server was friendly and patient, walking us through the menu like someone who actually eats here on their days off (always a good sign). We started with the Thai curry soup, Oysters, and the Peruvian Crudo, which were the perfect openers. We found ourselves savoring every bite, taking an hour to only finish our appetizers as we marveled at the ocean that sat feet across from us, behind the massive windows. For mains, we went with the A5 Wagyu Steak and the Swordfish Filet. Both came out plated like art, to where you just want to appreciate it, and both were cooked to perfection. The A5 wagyu melted in our mouths like butter, with just the right char on the outside and cooked to a perfect medium. Cutting through the Swordfish was effortless. Both cuts were juicy, with all the right textures inside and out. My girlfriend typically puts salt on everything she eats, but here, everything was salted and seasoned to perfection, and the salt cup remained untouched for the entire meal. This is really saying something. Yes, it's pricey... but you're not just paying for food here. You're paying for one of the most unique dining settings in San Diego, exceptional service, and a memory that'll probably stick with you for a long time. We never felt rushed to finish up, and understandably, we stayed for close to three hours. If you're visiting San Diego or are a local wanting a dinner that you'll never forget, The Marine Room delivers on every front. Easily one of those places that reminds you what fine dining is supposed to feel like.

Titled Menu, very nice

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The Marine Room Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - The Marine Room

What time is the best time to make a reservation for sunset dinner?

What is men and ladies dress code?

Business casual upper class nicely dress no shorts no T-shirts

I have a large party of about 20 people coming in. Is there a max # of how the check can be split? Or is it possible to give everyone their own bill? What's the best way to ensure people are only paying for what they ordered?

What is the average price of a cocktail in the lounge?

This is not a place to save money. It's pricy and worth it.

Does the lounge still require a minimum of $100 per person?

No.

Do they serve halal meat?

Oh not so sure - mainly seafood what they offer

Can I bring my 7 month old here?

Not a good idea

How is the parking situation? is it better to uber?

It's valet and not cheap...we found some street parking a few blocks away but I'm not sure how easy it is to always find that.

Are the two pound lobsters served everyday for dinner because I don't see it on the menu?

I don't think so - it happened that night I was there they were offering for tonight's special

Is it reservation only or are walk-ins okay too?

Walk ins are ok but reservations are highly recommended to ensure seating is available. There is limited seating with a window view.

How much is valet parking?

If I recall it was $7

If we buy a bottle of your wine, and bring one of our own, do you waive corkage like most restaurants do?

The corkage fee is $45 per bottle. There is a maximum of 2 standard bottles (or 1 magnum) per table.

Can you bring your own small cake for birthday celebration?

Yes! We brought a cake for a birthday celebration. I believe they charged a small cake cutting fee.

Is there a private dining room?

They can close sections of the dining room; Seahorse is particularly private, see the map in https://www.marineroom.com/resourcefiles/pdf/mr%20catering%20menu%200122.pdf

Outdoor seating arrangements?

Inside only with a glass window ocean view.... Very pretty and expensive

Do they still have happy hour, if so what days and time?

No they used to have Happy Hour but not anymore!

Do you still have high tide breakfast?

As of 2020, The Marine Room no longer offers High Tide Brunch. High Dinner Dinner is available on select dates between the months of June - September.

Is there an on site elevator to the beach level dining room?

Actually, the restaurant is 2 levels. You enter on the 2nd level and then there are several steps down to the dining level.

Is it ok to bring your own wine?

Hello, Yes, it is okay to bring your own wine. We do have a $45 corkage fee and can only bring a… Read more

Are kids ok?

See Nina S. answer. I have been there many times over the years and didn't remember seeing kids. The place is very nice, elegant, quiet. At one end of the restaurant close to the bar, the noise level is a little more than the other end. But still,… Read more

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The Marine Room - seafood - Updated May 2026

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