Ok, so while deciding where to go in Encinitas for dinner I stumble upon this place. The ambiance is cute and the wait staff/ host were great offf the get! We got the steak tartare, patata bravas, squash soup, brocolini, and the pork schnitzel. We were hungry boys. The patatas bravas was like soooooooooo good. Potatoes light and creamy with sauce a flavorful sauce and aoili. Like seriously I luved them (probs my fave thing)!!!! The steak tar was alright it had a soft delicate flavor but I don't know why it's paired with their thin potato chips... kinda makes me feel cheap. Squash soup was packed with FLAVOR! Probably the most flavorful thing we ordered but a little bit to thick for me, personally like my soup on da creamy side I wanted the schnitzel to be that girl and sadly it just wasn't. It was cooked to perfection and had a nice sauce, but idk the flavor just didn't jump at me and tackle me to the floor. Overall I think none of the flavors on my plate really made my eyes roll to the back of my head. Like a place like this needs a signature dish that's like one of a kind and make it a commodity. Everything was good but eh, nothing really great. I would definetly say check it out but, I probably won't come again personally. Once again the staff was INCREDIBLE AND SOOOO LOVLEY. They're the reason I'm giving 4 stars. But nothing I had today is gonna get me back in the resturant again. read more

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Had the best experience at Valentina! Staff was super friendly right when we walked in and our server Kimi was amazing and recommended plates for us to share. Shared a bottle of Pinot Noir and enjoyed multiple tapas plates. I will definitely come back for another date night or special event. read more

Valentina - Gambas and Bread - Seafood Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Incredible service. Incredible food. Incredible vibe. The papas bravas and the arroz were fantastic. Some of the most flavorful sauces we've ever had. We'll definitely be back to try more dishes. There's a discount if you pay cash. Also, you don't need a reservation to eat outside. read more

Valentina - Papas bravas - Seafood Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Round two for us and we were not disappointed. It took a little time to seat us and we were waiting outside, behind closed doors (it was a little windy and chilly) but after that the service was good. All the recommendations from food and drink were spot on. We really enjoyed the shrimp and bread (dipping the bread in the chili garlic oil was my fav part). The octopus was decent. The patatas bravas seemed to be much smaller and not as crunchy since our last visit. We tried the steak for the first time and it was seasoned and cooked very well and was enough for 3 to 4 people. The basque cake was a little on the drier side. But we will be back! read more

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We enjoyed the food and lively environment . The tapas style plates were unique and amazingly good. Each plate was 18 - 24 so be ready to pay but worth every penny read more

Great mellow restaurant for a date night or evening with friends. The paella and oysters are favorites, and the wine selection is also pretty good. I've had great service all four times I've been here! read more

The good: Nice location the sunset was pretty from here with the ocean near by and it was easy to get to from the high way. The ambience was chill eclectic modern with a cozy feel. The bad: The food was maybe a 6/10 for me but it might depend what you order our sea bass was amazing but most other dishes didn't hit the mark for me. I also like the bread and steak with mashed potatoes. The mussels were tiny and had a fishy odor it was pungent. The chicken was flavorful but salad with it was off. The potato bravas had too much aioli and the shishito peppers were rubbery. The ham croquettes were good just tiny. The service: Server was nice at first but by the end of our reservation the waiter seemed upset and rushy due to their 2 hour limit they impose. In summery maybe this is more of like a date night spot or small gathering either way it's best to check it out yourself. I love the creativity of the menu though and overall look of the restaurant. read more

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Food was unfortunately underwhelming. We ordered the chicken and Sea bass.The vibe of the restaurant was lovely. Service could be better but I'll give them the benefit of doubt. read more

Arrogant with an attitude. Way too expensive for what they serve and the stuck up service. They charge 3-4 times the price of a bottle of wine for what we can get at the grocery store. Fancy, in Leucadia. Not. Don't waste your money. read more

Located right off the 101, this is a cute, chic-casual restaurant with a spacy and low lit feel. It could be perfect for date night, dinner with friends or to celebrate important occasions. Parking is located along the road. They have a strict 2 hour time limitation policy, which made no sense to us because the restaurant was 3/4 empty while we were there. The server was nice and was able to guide us through the menu and our drink choices in depth. I got the Riesling which was pretty good. My friend tried a bunch of different wines before she settled on the Albarino, which was close to a Sauvignon Blanc. For food, we got a bunch of different tapas plates. The corn and coriander soup was a Chef's kiss. Warm, flavorful without being too punchy, like a warm summer night's hug. The patatas bravas were different from what I expected them to look like, but they were pretty tasty. The Codorniz was a nice little surprise - Spanish quail presented as one would a chicken wing. The tamarind sauce was a little salty which made it harder to finish this quickly. But, overall, I enjoyed the meat a lot. It was also falling off the bone pretty easily, which is what I like my wings to be like. The Tomaquet con Iberico was a bruschetta presentation of Iberian ham on tomato bread. Personally, I would've liked more than just ham and bread. They have an interesting menu and I'll be back to try some more options. I do wish they remove the 2 hour dining limit. The server coming back to keep us moving the menu felt rushed. I understand having this rule for a bigger group, but doesn't make sense for 2 people looking to have an easy, relaxed dinner. read more

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It's good food and good service is good as well, so this complaint is more about management decisions than the service. I just can't stand any restaurant that doesn't think that representing a credit card fee not built into the menu is acceptable in this day and age. It's a scam slightly justified by small print. read more

Our family loves tapas so much. We ordered a bunch of tapas, some big plates and dessert to share. Everything was delicious. Here are a few highlights. 1) Their paella was different from the transitional paella. I love it so much! They made rice crispy and oily. Their seafood on top was fresh and delicious. This whole dish was heartwarming and comforting. 2) The mushroom dish was another surprise. The combination of mushrooms, breadcrumbs, and egg yolk was impressive, with a delightful contrast of textures in each bite. It was a unique and satisfying experience. 3) Their Patatas Bravas was also creative. Thinly sliced potatoes were deep-fried together, creating an interesting texture. The sauce on top was perfect for this dish. 4) I am very picky for desserts. I love desserts, but I don't like desserts o be too sweet. their basque cake was just perfect! Texture was great! 5) smashed seared artichoke was delicious and salmon crudo was flavorful. 7) The garlic shrimp, Iberian ham on tomato toast, croquetas, and Spanish sausage were all prepared in a classic way and were tasty. They changed some items on their menu. A few fish I was interested was not on the current menu anymore. I am a little bit sad for missing out. Hope they would bring some previous dish back. I like carpcho de pulpo more than grilled octopus. Please bring carpcho de pulpo back. Also seared squid and beef tartare. One suggestion I have is that anchovies would be even better with raw garlic on top. Overall, we had a fantastic time at this tapas restaurant and will definitely be returning in the future. read more

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Drink menus for my pal James who requested the wine menu (let me in on that case order?). Rumor has it the squash will be on the menu soon, tried the special and it was great so get it if you can! read more

Valentina - Cocktail menu - Seafood Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Came for dinner with some friends and was blown away by the food at this charming but unassuming restaurant. Will definitely be back to try the rest of the menu. The Good - The house made bread is a must a goes well as a vehicle to soak up the sauces from their other dishes - The Patatas Bravas and Crudo were excellent - The Lubina con Patatas, Weinerschnitzel, & Arroz del Senyoret were all excellent as entrees The Mid - Steak & Potatoes were OK read more

This place was such a find. I can't believe it's been here for so long and I've never been there. Right off the 101. I've always said we needed more places like this with unique, flavorful food with fresh ingredients. Tapas are a great way to try many different plates and enjoy conversations about each one. The shrimp was my favorite. Service was friendly and atmosphere is a really good vibe. read more

Valentina - Shrimp - Seafood Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Really enjoyed this spot. Loved the vibe, great service, thanks Kimi. It's elegant and relaxed, with a nice crowd. The food is fantastic, especially the seabass and gentleman's rice, those prawns yum! Thoughtful wine list, enjoyed albarino and Tempranillo and they make a nice Negroni. Lots more to explore on the menu, look forward to returning. read more

Such a sweet space! Everyone that works here is just delightful, especially our waitress Jessica There were four of us and we had Seabass, chicken paillard, arroz del senyoret, bread, and olives. Absolutely delicious. I am definitely coming back. Go just go. You will be happy. read more

Valentina - Chicken Paillard - Seafood Near Me - Encinitas, California

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We drove here for our anniversary weekend from Arizona and settled on this restaurant for our dinner! And boy were we happy we did. As soon as we sat down, the hostess took a Polaroid of us for a memento! Our waitresss was extremely accommodating and helped us choose which wines to get and reccomended the best items on the menu. We got the baby squid, mussels, bread, gentlemen's rice?? Which was sorta like Paella, and gamba from the appetizer section. You must try the Orange wine! It was delicious. It was cozy and dimly lit but lit well enough to read the menus! It was also super lively with a full dining room even at 8:30pm:) Will be coming back for sure. They even brought us a little dessert and a manager called and asked how our experience was a couple days later. Incredible service. read more

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Amazing! Food - equal to amazing places in San Sebastián Service - Kimmie was Awesome Thank you read more

Quite possibly my favorite spot in the city. They deserve all of the 5-star reviews, which unfortunately make it that much harder to get a table. Pan con tomate, smashed artichoke, paella, garlic shrimp were all spectacular. read more

Came here a few weeks ago with some friends and had a great time. The vibe was chill and I loved the decor. We went with the shared plates and everything was very good. So good I forgot to take photos! Haha. Definitely recommend the smashed artichoke - first time I've ever had it prepared like that and I am wondering where it's been all my life! Also, 100% recommend the patatas bravas. They were crispy but melted in your mouth and with their brava sauce on top! So, so good. The wine selection was great and so were the cocktails. I suggest calling to make a reservation because they don't open until 4:30pm on weekdays and they get busy. read more

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Went here for dinner & it has a little moody ambience. The staff were so nice & very well versed in their wine selection & menu. Every dish we had was incredible. Definitely not many spanish restaurants/bars so this stood out. I definitely recommend sharing a few items when you go here. This is perfect for a date, a celebration or just a good night out with a friend! I would love to come here again. read more

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The best! Love this place! Go to is the pork snitzel and papas bravas. Great food. Great people. Must visit!

I'm sorry to say, our dinner Thursday evening was disappointing. I took my girlfriend out for her birthday dinner, after having just left The Mudd House next door. Our waiter was friendly and knowledgeable, but I wouldn't say I appreciated him saying "you're wrong about the Rose", not once, but twice. We both ordered the wine trio special. I cannot remember the name of the winery, but the wine rep was there talking about and pouring our wine; an Albariño, Rose and a red. I am generally much more detailed about the wine I drink, I was just not impressed. The Albarino was not good, the Rose was better and the red was decent. $30 each for 3 short pours (3 oz.). The Crudo Del Dia was tuna. It was cubed, but mushy, not firm. Their baguettes are to die for! So delicious! The Gentleman's Rice was pretty uneventful. Crispy, which I love, but a smaller than you'd like portion of rice, with not a ton of flavor. It had two shrimp with four small pieces of Calamari. The Basque cake was as delicious as always! We had a wonderful evening getting caught up as we always do. Sadly, neither of us will be rushing back to fine here for a bit. We should have ordered the muscles and the Chicken Paillard, which we know have been stellar in the past. read more

This is one of my favorite places in all of San Diego. Amazing food and the cutest location.

Omg, this cute little restaurant on Coast Highway is soooo amazing! Everything we ordered was great!! Aguachile de Cameron is amazing!! We loved the chiperones a la plancha aka baby squid. The smashed artichoke was unique and a standout!! The waitress is extremely knowledgeable about the food and wines. She's awesome! My fave is carpacho de pulpo aka octopus which is sliced so thin and beautifully! I loved the sea bass! The layered potato dish was so interesting and I can't figure out how they made it but boy was it tasty!! I highly recommend coming here!! read more

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Food was great! Came here for my bday dinner and it did not disappoint. Made reservations for 7p and was seated quickly, server was attentive and super nice I'm sad I can't remember his name...but he was great! Ordered the schnitzel with a side of fries, other party members ordered sea-bass and steak tar-tar. Appetizer was artichoke and it was so delicious! Valentina's was so nice, romantic but yet a very cool modern place, I would come back for that amazing schnitzel and artichoke. Sangria was refreshing as well. read more

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We had something to do in Encinitas so we made a day out out of it. Came here for lunch and was very nice. Parking was a little tough but there's parking across the street. Food is more like tapas so we got to try multiple dishes! Well seasoned and textures were nicely paired. Will be back! read more

Valentina - Seafood Near Me - Encinitas, California

I had the chicken paillard. If you're looking for something very light, fresh, and healthy, I would recommend it. It's not the most savory dish but for something a bit healthier and clean, I enjoyed it. My friend got the omelette but said he didn't like it. I think he was expecting a more traditional, diner-style omelette, and not Valentina's take on one. read more

Valentina - Chicken paillard. Take that lemon and squeeze it all over the chicken and the salad. - Seafood Near Me - Encinitas, California

Phenomenal food! Excellent service. We had the shrimp and octopus appetizer and the sea bass entree with the salad ar the bar and was well taken care of by David. Highly recommend. Basque cake was delicious! read more

Great happy hour with oysters in Encinitas a pricey town. Outdoor patio is cute. Have them out there.

We love Mediterranean food and sharing so we can try a greater variety of food. This restaurant is clean, cozy and airy. Staff is friendly and courteous. Food was delicious and brought to the table fast. We enjoyed every bite! We had mussels in wine sauce, shrimp in garlic sauce, smashed artichokes, tomato salad, patatas bravas, lamb meatballs and wienerschnitzel. read more

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It was our anniversary and wanted to have a nice dinner, so we ended up here! Love doing tapas, because you can try a few different items. It's like a mini buffet of Spanish food! We ordered four items and that was good enough for the two of us. Plus they give you bread and olives to start. We got the local baby squids, grouper in a lemon butter sauce (had me at butter AND lemon), steak tartare, and the crudité! All were so good. The portion size for each was just right. It was nice to not be committed to just one entree. Definitely want to try other items! We will be back! read more

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Just when I thought I was over my visit to Spain, I find myself booking reservations at another Spanish style restaurant. This time it was Valentina. I'll say parking was easy. Weeknight though. Can't and won't speak for the weekends. Street parking. Parking across the street too. Read the signs. Don't remember what the restrictions are/were. I was there for a few hours and I wasn't stroked a ticket. Service was excellent. She was on point. Attentive. Friendly. Nice. Funny. All of the above. Will just say that if I found myself back at Valentina, I'd ask to be sat in her section. And the food. The food. I'm saying to see pics but know that the pics don't do the food justice at all. There were some dishes I didn't love as much as others - everyone has different tastes - but know that there wasn't a dish I didn't like. There were dishes I saw other customers ordering that I just ordered instead of trying what they offered me. That was the vibe there. Everyone just having a good time. Chatting it up with others. The table next to mine offered me a chance to try a dish they absolutely loved. I declined because I had already ordered an entire dish for me. Anyway, there's more on the menu for me to try the next time I'm in the area. Because there will be a next time read more

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A charming coastal spot with fresh, flavorful Italian dishes! The pasta is perfectly cooked and the seafood is bright and well-seasoned. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, though it can get noisy when busy. A lovely choice for a relaxed yet delicious meal. read more

Really enjoyed Valentina. Great food and service. To be clear, this is not a $$ restaurant. You could make an argument for $$$, but I suspect the average bill per person is over $60 making it a $$$$. read more

Sat at the bar on Friday night with a girlfriend. We were well taken care of by David, attentive and friendly. My friend got the Aperol Spritz and I got a N/A IPA beer. I was pleasantly surprised at the amount of options for non alcoholic drinks. We shared the sashimi, Steak Tiradito, Patatas Bravas, Pan Tomate, and finished with the cake. Everything was delicious and came out quickly. The patatas bravas were my favorite- a must order. Bar stools were definitely not made for a long visit, I can't wait to come back and relax at a table with a bottle of wine. read more

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Adorable little gem of a restaurant. Went here for Saturday brunch with a girlfriend. The service was wonderful. Attentive, knowledgeable and super friendly. Server enjoyed her job and she was good at it. The food was lovely. Seemed to have French and Spanish influences, and the wine menu was on point. Only thing I wouldnt recommend is their pre-batched cocktails, which honestly are more than likely never great. They were extremely sweet and lacked the personality of a drink made by a bartender. The wine menu is extensive enough you won't miss the cocktails. Ambiance was adorable. Indoor and covered patio seating was lovely for a beautiful afternoon. Overall if you're looking for a spot in Encinitas with its own vibe off the corporate crap path this place is great! Will be back read more

Valentina - Seafood Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Spanish tapas are served here! Tastes just like the food I had in Spain. I highly recommend this place! The octopus is delicious.

The paella was phenomenal, and I would come back just for that! However, the ribeye was very disappointing. I was quite annoyed when I got home and realized that our waitress had tacked on $20 to our bill for a Cabernet that we didn't order. Check your bills! read more

Valentina - The arroz was phenomenal - Seafood Near Me - Encinitas, California