The Hottest Restaurants in San Diego, November 2024

"Though the return of the Whaling Bar to the La Valencia Hotel is a departure from its charmingly retro origins, the new version — operated by SDCM Restaurant Group (Waverly, the Grass Skirt) — is an appealing glamourous boost to La Jolla’s nightlife scene. The menu from Brian Redzikowski includes favorites like Kettner Exchange’s duck meatballs and the chef’s signature bao along with playful dishes such as a Caesar salad with parmesan-filled “Twinkie” croutons and a picture-perfect “hamburger” made from cake and ice cream. Cocktails from beverage director Eric Johnson are fittingly luxe for the setting, including the Parm to Glass which features parmesan fat-washed vodka, fino sherry, housemade dry vermouth, and olive brine." - Candice Woo