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San Diego

Juniper & Ivy, located in San Diego's Little Italy, is celebrated for its contemporary American cuisine that blends local ingredients with global flavors. The restaurant offers a dynamic, seasonally-driven menu in a rustic-chic setting. Patrons often commend the inventive dishes, such as the Yodel dessert and tuna Wellington, as well as the attentive service and lively ambiance. The establishment has also been recognized with accolades like the Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand and James Beard Award nominations.

Discover Juniper and Ivy in San Diego's Little Italy District 

Tucked away on 2228 Kettner Boulevard in the vibrant neighborhood of Little Italy, San Diego, Juniper and Ivy stands out as a beacon of modern American dining. This spacious and stylish restaurant invites food lovers and trend-conscious travelers alike to enjoy its imaginative New American fare, crafted with seasonal and local ingredients that bring a unique global flair to every dish.

At Juniper and Ivy, the menu reflects a masterful blend of creativity and quality. Diners rave about standout dishes such as the linguine de mare and the Whole Rose Snapper Fish, with flavors that burst with freshness and innovation. The restaurant's dedication to excellence earned it nods from the Michelin Guide and James Beard Award committees, making it a must-visit for culinary adventurers.

Vegetarian and vegan diners will find thoughtful options available, ensuring everyone can enjoy a memorable meal. 

The attentive staff are always ready to guide guests through these choices to suit dietary preferences.

Juniper and Ivy offers a rustic-chic setting with woody, artistic decor that creates a warm and inviting ambiance perfect for special occasions or casual gatherings. Guests can enjoy their meals indoors or on the covered patio, which is pet-friendly — so you can bring your furry friends along for a delightful dining experience. Valet parking, as well as free and paid street parking, adds convenience for visitors.

Expect attentive service that enhances your visit, with many guests praising individual servers for their friendliness and accommodating nature.

Juniper and Ivy serves a variety of drinks including carefully curated cocktails, beer, and an extensive wine list. While wine prices can be on the higher side, savvy patrons can find excellent budget-friendly selections. The restaurant caters to all meals except breakfast, welcoming guests for lunch, brunch, and dinner, with dessert offerings rounding out the experience.

 Yes, pets are welcome in the outdoor seating area.

 Yes, vegan-friendly dishes are available with server assistance.

 Yes, with a comfortable covered patio area.

 Yes, the restaurant is fully wheelchair accessible.

Community Sentiment and Visitor Experience

Juniper and Ivy enjoys a strong reputation among diners who often highlight its innovative cuisine, impeccable and friendly service, and lively yet comfortable atmosphere. Many celebrate it as the perfect spot for special occasions, with frequent mentions of standout dishes and attentive staff members who make guests feel welcomed and valued.

While the restaurant is sometimes noted for premium pricing, especially on wine, guests agree that the overall dining experience is memorable and worth the visit.

North America

United States

Nestled in the heart of Little Italy, San Diego, Juniper and Ivy stands as a beacon of culinary innovation and vibrant atmosphere. This restaurant, designed by the acclaimed chef Richard Blais, is a celebration of New American cuisine, where every dish tells a story and every bite is an adventure. The spacious, modern interior, adorned with artistic touches, sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.

At Juniper and Ivy, the menu is a canvas for creativity. Signature dishes like the **Inihaw Pork Belly**, tender and bursting with flavor, and the **Whole Rose Snapper Fish**, beautifully presented and perfectly cooked, showcase the restaurant's commitment to quality and innovation. Each dish is crafted with seasonal ingredients, ensuring freshness and a unique dining experience that changes with the seasons.

Innovative cocktails crafted with local spirits.

A diverse wine selection featuring local and international labels.

Seasonal desserts that are as delightful to the eyes as they are to the palate.

The restaurant's name, Juniper and Ivy, pays homage to the natural elements that inspire its dishes. Chef Blais often shares that the restaurant aims to reflect the vibrant culinary scene of San Diego while pushing the boundaries of traditional dining. This philosophy is evident in the way the menu evolves, with dishes inspired by local culture and seasonal ingredients.

 It is renowned for its innovative New American cuisine and vibrant atmosphere.

 The restaurant offers a unique dining experience with dishes that highlight local ingredients and a creative twist.

 Visitors can explore the vibrant Little Italy neighborhood, with its charming shops and art galleries, as well as the beautiful waterfront.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a night out, Juniper and Ivy promises an extraordinary culinary journey. Book your table now and immerse yourself in the flavors of San Diego!

Spacious, modern restaurant serving imaginative New American fare & drinks in woody, arty surrounds.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTURneGFtbVJnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJU0G2erNU2YAR9XScAoqtvgU/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTURneGFtbVJnEAE

Fantastic restaurant. Innovative cuisine and impeccable service. I had the linguine de mare, which was delicious.  I give rarely a 5 x 5 review but this was one of them.  Food  prices were reasonable..but wine is expensive.  Look for the inexpensive but good wines.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUNBdk1pVDJRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJU0G2erNU2YAR9XScAoqtvgU/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUNBdk1pVDJRRRAB

It gets expensive here but it was packed on a Wednesday evening during the conference. Food was GOOD with some highlights, service was fine as well. I would say I’d come here again on a special occasion. Last comment would be that they  had a great duck for the Lunar New Year and I love it when restaurants have something special like this!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTURRc3BiYlJBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJU0G2erNU2YAR9XScAoqtvgU/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTURRc3BiYlJBEAE

My best friend and I decided to celebrate my birthday at this delightful spot, and oh, what a wonderful experience it was! The ambiance is just lovely, setting the perfect mood for our celebration. To kick things off, we enjoyed two adorable tiny deviled eggs that were simply delicious! Then I savored the Inihaw pork belly—so tender and bursting with flavor.

For our main course, we had the Whole Rose Snapper Fish (I can't believe I forgot to snap a picture! 😞). We truly enjoyed every bite of our meal.

What really made our evening special was our amazing and friendly server, Lauren. She was fantastic and so accommodating, which truly enhanced our experience. We loved interacting with her! Huge shout out to Lauren for a job well done! 🥳🤩🙌🏽💯✨

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfeFBQa2RnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJU0G2erNU2YAR9XScAoqtvgU/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfeFBQa2RnEAE

Gotta remember that people travel from other states to enjoy a Michelin restaurant and the hopes to be wowed. . This NYE experience def felt like we were just a number.  4 courses and 9 oz of wine were not worth the 700 in our opinion.  The food was good, 3rd course was served warm, not hot.   8 out of 10 on the food.  We would try again because it still was a good experience.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYeS16Njh3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJU0G2erNU2YAR9XScAoqtvgU/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYeS16Njh3RRAB

We headed to juniper and ivy on a Saturday night - we had a reservation and were checking it out for a potential event. They have valet parking. We had to wait 5-10 minutes to be seated. Overall the food was alright - the  service wasn’t great. The bread was a highlight - we had the sourdough and the biscuits. The pork belly was also pretty good. The cocktails were solid. The ravioli was quite good but the rigatoni fell flat, the sausage wasn’t filled with flavor and the service was just brutal. It took forever to get a drink and once it got busy took almost 30 minutes to get the check. Our server was covering a massive group of tables which probably didn’t help. The price points do not justify the quality of the food.

Juniper and Ivy: Luxury Dining in San Diego's Little Italy

Juniper & Ivy, established in 2014, has become a cornerstone of San Diego's culinary scene, known for its innovative approach to contemporary American cuisine.

A contemporary American restaurant offering a dynamic, seasonally-driven menu that showcases the best local ingredients.

Caviar Service

House Sourdough

Wagyu Butter Biscuit

Roasted Bone Marrow

Yellowtail Tostada

Bluefin Tuna Handroll

SD Uni Crab Puff

Creekstone Steak Tartare

Squash Blossom

Inihaw Pork Belly

Malaspina Oysters

Oyster Sisig

Cabo Kanpachi

Coronado Bluefin Crudo

Burrata & Peas

Grilled Artichoke

JR Organics Spring Salad

Agnolotti

Asparagus & Mushroom Risotto

Linguine del Mare

Miso Black Cod

Lamb Kafta

Whole Fried Fish

Prime Flat Iron

Crusted Prime Ribeye

Whole Duck (for Two)

Ice Cream / Sorbet

Yodel

Sugar Plum

Chai Chocoflan

Juniper & Ivy Menu

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Little Italy, San Diego, Juniper and Ivy offers an imaginative New American dining experience that celebrates the finest local ingredients. This thoughtfully curated menu is designed for food enthusiasts seeking bold flavors and inventive dishes that delight every palate.

Begin your culinary journey with starters that artfully blend texture and flavor. Savor the luxurious Caviar Service accompanied by toasted brioche and traditional condiments, or indulge in the comforting richness of the Wagyu Butter Biscuit with smoked chive. Fresh seafood lovers will relish the Yellowtail Tostada featuring aguachile, avocado crema, and refreshing cucumber, while the Bluefin Tuna Handroll offers a delightful bite wrapped in sesame leaf with wasabi mayo and furikake.

 Mikolich farm honey butter enhancing its warm flavors

 served with sourdough, pickles, chimichurri, and roasted garlic

 glazed with banana ketchup and accented with birdseye sugarcane gel and Aleppo oil

 fresh oysters with ginger flower mignonette and ikura

For your main course, Juniper and Ivy offers a range of mouthwatering dishes that showcase seasonal produce and masterful technique. Dive into the Asparagus & Mushroom Risotto, where black truffles and smoked Parmigiano elevate tender Carnaroli rice. The Linguine del Mare pairs diver scallops and sweet red crab with a luscious white wine butter sauce for a coastal delight.

 delicately prepared with J&I dashi, glazed shishito peppers, and roasted shiitakes

 served alongside garlic labneh, date molasses, J&I naan, and pickled vegetables

 featuring rose snapper, bok choy, nuoc cham, roasted peanut, and marinated Korean cucumber

 complemented by togarashi spiced potatoes, broccolini purée, field mushrooms, and wasabi bordelaise

 served with grilled asparagus, local ramps, and a classic sauce au poivre

 paired with wok-fried vegetables and a scallion pancake for sharing

End your meal on a sweet note with desserts crafted to surprise and satisfy. The Yodel combines pumpkin spice snow with micro sponge, coffee ganache, and vanilla crumb for a layered texture and flavor experience. The Sugar Plum features plum cake, brown sugar ice cream, and airy plum foam, while the Chai Chocoflan tempts with caramelia whipped ganache and salted caramel chai ice cream. For a simpler treat, enjoy the daily rotating Ice Cream and Sorbet options.

Complement your meal with Juniper and Ivy’s thoughtfully crafted cocktails and an extensive wine list that highlights both local and international selections. While the wine can be on the pricier side, the quality and pairing options are exceptional. Seasonal specials occasionally grace the menu, such as the much-lauded duck during Lunar New Year celebrations, adding an exclusive touch to your dining experience.

Savor inspired dishes at Juniper and Ivy in Little Italy, San Diego. Experience culinary creativity in a vibrant atmosphere. Book your table today!

Juniper and Ivy: Top Dining in Little Italy, San Diego

San Diego County

Juniper and Ivy

A four-course, hyper-local prix-fixe menu offered in August 2023 to celebrate the restaurant's 10th anniversary, featuring dishes like tuna Wellington and the signature Yodel dessert.

Prix-Fixe Menu

A separate menu for bar seating, featuring snacks such as sliders, spicy handrolls, chicken liver mousse, and pimento cheese with sourdough doughnuts.

Bar Menu

Juniper and Ivy: A Culinary Gem in Little Italy San Diego 

Located at 2228 Kettner Boulevard in the vibrant Little Italy neighborhood of San Diego, Juniper and Ivy offers an extraordinary dining experience that masterfully blends imaginative New American cuisine with stylish, woody, and artistic surroundings. This spacious restaurant is a hotspot for food lovers, digital nomads, and trend-conscious travelers seeking a memorable meal in a lively yet refined atmosphere.

Innovative Menu Highlights and Celebratory Offerings

Juniper and Ivy is renowned for its creative dishes that push culinary boundaries while emphasizing hyper-local, seasonal ingredients. A standout was the exclusive Prix-Fixe Menu introduced in August 2023 to commemorate the restaurant’s 10th anniversary. This four-course feast featured highlights such as the exquisite tuna Wellington and the signature Yodel dessert, designed to delight both the eyes and palate.

For those who prefer a more casual vibe, the separate Bar Menu offers an exciting selection of snacks perfect for pairing with their craft cocktails. Favorites include sliders, spicy handrolls, chicken liver mousse, and pimento cheese served with sourdough doughnuts, creating perfect bites to enjoy at the bar or during outdoor seating when the San Diego weather beckons.

Step inside Juniper and Ivy and you’re greeted by a modern, airy space where woody textures and artistic elements create an inviting and chic environment. Guests praise the attentive service and celebrate the restaurant as a perfect spot for special occasions or group dining, appreciating its roomy layout and comfortable seating options including outdoor areas.

 options ensure easy access to the venue.

 with quality wines, craft cocktails, beer, and coffee complementing the food.

 include a children’s menu despite the restaurant not being generally good for children.

 for special occasions or busy nights to secure a spot.

Why Juniper and Ivy Stands Out in San Diego

Juniper and Ivy has earned its reputation as a must-visit spot in San Diego for those seeking innovative and refined cuisine that still embraces the local spirit. Whether you’re indulging in their celebrated prix-fixe anniversary menu, enjoying imaginative bar snacks, or savoring tender pork belly and fresh seafood dishes, the experience is elevated by the polished setting and professional service. It’s a go-to destination for celebrations, group dinners, or simply treating yourself to a sophisticated culinary adventure in Little Italy.

Discover Juniper and Ivy for an unforgettable San Diego dining experience where creativity and quality meet.

Discover Juniper and Ivy in San Diego's Little Italy Neighborhood.

Nestled in the vibrant heart of San Diego's Little Italy, Juniper and Ivy offers a dining experience that artfully blends innovative New American cuisine with a lively and contemporary atmosphere. This restaurant is celebrated for its imaginative dishes crafted from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients that delight food enthusiasts seeking creative and fresh flavors. The interior features woody, artistic décor that complements the adventurous menu, making it an inviting spot for both locals and visitors.

Juniper and Ivy impresses with an award-winning wine list that perfectly complements its seasonal menu. Whether you’re indulging in their standout pork belly or savoring fresh seafood, each dish reflects a commitment to quality and creativity. The attentive service enhances the dining atmosphere, ensuring guests feel valued and well cared for. With options for beer, cocktails, and wine, there’s a perfect beverage pairing for every palate.

Valet and street parking options available, though parking can be limited.

Wheelchair accessible facilities ensure inclusive dining experiences.

Pet friendly outdoor seating welcomes your furry companions.

No live music, so the ambiance leans toward intimate conversation rather than entertainment.

While Juniper and Ivy dazzles with its innovative cuisine and vibrant atmosphere, some guests note that pricing can be on the higher side, especially for wine. Service, at times, has experienced variability during peak hours, which can affect the overall experience. Parking remains a challenge due to limited availability, so planning ahead is advisable. Despite these points, many diners return for special occasions, appreciating the restaurant’s unique menu offerings and stylish setting.

California

Experience innovative American cuisine at Juniper & Ivy. Enjoy seasonally-inspired dishes and a vibrant atmosphere in Little Italy. Book your table now!

Luxury Dining at Juniper & Ivy, San Diego's Kitchen

Discover the culinary delights of Juniper & Ivy with our insider tips and menu highlights. Explore the perfect dining experience in Little Italy!

Your Guide to Juniper & Ivy, San Diego's Gem

Learn the history of Juniper & Ivy, a Michelin-rated restaurant in San Diego. Discover its innovative menu and vibrant community atmosphere.

Discover the Juniper and Ivy menu

Starters to awaken your appetite

Mains bursting with creativity

Delightful desserts

Signature drinks and specials