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Paradisaea, located in La Jolla, CA, offers a contemporary Californian dining experience with tropical influences. The restaurant has received positive feedback for its ambiance, food quality, and service. Notably, it was added to the Michelin Guide's California selection in December 2023. ([sandiego.eater.com](https://sandiego.eater.com/2023/12/12/23998333/michelin-guide-paradisaea-bird-rock-restaurant-new-discoveries-san-diego-california?utm_source=openai))

Discover Paradisaea: La Jolla's Culinary Gem with Tropical Flair and Michelin Recognition

Nestled at 5680 La Jolla Boulevard in the vibrant Bird Rock area of La Jolla, San Diego, Paradisaea is an upscale restaurant that artfully blends contemporary Californian cuisine with tropical influences to craft a unique dining experience. Since its addition to the Michelin Guide's California selection in December 2023, this hotspot has become a magnet for food enthusiasts, digital nomads, and trend-conscious travelers seeking refined flavors and stylish ambiance.

Paradisaea’s interior is a feast for the eyes, boasting modern aesthetics, chic furniture, and sharp wallpaper design that echoes its namesake — the bird of paradise. The cohesive theme extends to the creative and illustrative cocktail menu, where each drink is inspired by a unique bird, offering guests playful yet sophisticated libations. Whether you're dining at the high top bar or the intimate main dining hall, the lively yet inviting vibe is perfect for romantic dinners or lively gatherings with friends.

Innovative Cuisine Highlighting Fresh, Flavorful Ingredients

The menu at Paradisaea showcases a creative lineup of shareable dishes and inventive cocktails. Diners rave about standouts like the Potatoes 3 Way appetizer featuring crispy yet tender preparations, a Caesar Salad with a vibrant twist, perfectly roasted cauliflower with a memorable kick, and buttery scallops cooked to perfection. The bar’s burger is frequently highlighted as one of the best in the area, juicy and impeccably seasoned. The fresh pasta ravioli melts in your mouth, balancing richness and lightness in every bite. Desserts, especially the caramelized apple Tarte Tatin, provide a satisfying and elegant finish.

Enjoy a diverse beverage selection including creative mezcal cocktails, quality wines, beer, and coffee, catering to varied palates and enhancing the overall dining experience.

Paradisaea offers dine-in with optional outdoor seating, live music performances, and attentive service praised by many visitors. The restaurant is family-friendly and accommodates groups comfortably. Though parking is conveniently available on the street nearby, guests are encouraged to reserve in advance for dinner service, which operates Wednesday through Sunday starting at 4:00 PM.

 with a menu that caters to diverse tastes.

 including credit, debit, and NFC payments accepted.

Paradisaea is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, inventive cuisine, and attentive service. Many guests praise its stylish decor and unique dishes that bring fresh and innovative flavors to the table. Starters like the Potatoes 3 Way and the expertly cooked scallops have earned particular acclaim, while the cocktail menu impresses even the most discerning palates with its creativity and quality.

However, some visitors have shared mixed feedback regarding food pricing and consistency, with a few noting that certain dishes and drinks did not meet expectations in relation to cost. Nonetheless, the majority find Paradisaea a worthwhile destination for a special night out in La Jolla.

What are the operating hours of Paradisaea?

 Paradisaea operates from Wednesday to Sunday, with dinner service starting at 4:00 PM. Closing times vary by day.

 Yes, reservations can be made through OpenTable, although walk-ins are also welcome.

Is there parking available at Paradisaea?

 Yes, free street parking is available near the restaurant for your convenience.

North America

United States

Nestled in the vibrant Bird Rock neighborhood of La Jolla, California, Paradisaea is a culinary gem that invites you to indulge in a world of flavor and creativity. This Michelin-starred restaurant is not just a place to eat; it's an experience that tantalizes the senses with its innovative dishes and chic ambiance. From the moment you step inside, the modern aesthetics and warm lighting create an inviting atmosphere, perfect for a romantic dinner or a lively gathering with friends.

The menu at Paradisaea is a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients, with each dish thoughtfully crafted to highlight its unique flavors. Start your meal with the renowned Potatoes 3 Way, where crispy, tender potatoes are presented in three delightful preparations, each offering a different taste and texture. Pair this with the vibrant Japanese Caesar Salad, a refreshing twist on a classic, bursting with fresh greens and a zesty dressing that will awaken your palate.

For the main course, the Scallops are a must-try—perfectly seared and served with a rich sauce that enhances their natural sweetness. If you're in the mood for something hearty, the Ravioli is a standout, featuring delicate pasta filled with a luscious filling that melts in your mouth. And don’t forget to save room for dessert; the Tarte Tatin is a heavenly finish, with caramelized apples nestled in a flaky crust, striking the perfect balance between sweetness and texture.

Paradisaea stands out not only for its exquisite dishes but also for its creative cocktail menu, with drinks named after birds, each reflecting unique characteristics. The Hoopoe and Red Reindeer cocktails are particularly popular, offering refreshing flavors that perfectly complement the culinary offerings. The restaurant also features live music, enhancing the vibrant atmosphere and making each visit feel special.

Paradisaea is renowned for its innovative dishes and creative cocktails, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Yes, Paradisaea offers outdoor seating, allowing guests to enjoy their meals in the beautiful California weather.

Paradisaea accepts various payment methods, including credit and debit cards, ensuring convenience for all guests.

Whether you're a local or just visiting San Diego, make sure to stop by Paradisaea for an unforgettable dining experience. With its exquisite menu, creative cocktails, and inviting atmosphere, it's the perfect spot to create lasting memories. Book your table today and discover why this restaurant is a beloved destination for food lovers.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfbTZYNjZBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJMxZpRPwD3IARF8O8ydaf80E/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfbTZYNjZBRRAB

A Truly Exceptional Dining Experience

From start to finish, this Michelin-starred restaurant delivered an unforgettable meal. For appetizers, we opted for the Potatoes 3 Way, Caesar Salad, and Cauliflower, and each dish was a standout in its own right. The potatoes were crispy yet tender, each preparation offering something different, while the Caesar Salad had an unexpected twist with vibrant, fresh flavors. The cauliflower, perfectly roasted, brought a surprising depth of flavor and a unique kick that was truly memorable.

For the mains, I ventured off the traditional path and tried the burger from the bar—one of the best I’ve ever had. Juicy, perfectly seasoned, and crafted with impeccable attention to detail. The scallops were flawlessly cooked, buttery and delicate, and paired beautifully with the accompanying ingredients. The ravioli was another highlight—pasta so fresh it practically melted in the mouth, with a delicate filling that balanced richness and lightness. Every dish felt thoughtfully curated, with flavors that complemented each other wonderfully.

Dessert was the Tarte Tatin, a beautiful finish to the meal. The caramelized apples were perfectly balanced with a flaky crust and just the right amount of sweetness. It was the kind of dessert that leaves you lingering at the table, savoring the last bite.

Overall, this restaurant exemplifies what true culinary excellence is all about—each dish is fresh, innovative, and bursting with flavor. Highly recommend for anyone looking to experience world-class dining.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURILXVfc0J3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJMxZpRPwD3IARF8O8ydaf80E/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURILXVfc0J3EAE

Was very excited about visiting this restaurant. The decor is very lovely and the atmosphere is good. The service is great but the food does not match the decor or the service or the money they are charging for it. We were highly disappointed, the drinks were less than average and the food is definitely not anything to call home about. The only thing that was good was the salad. Will not be returning unless the quality matches the price.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzLWNtWURnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJMxZpRPwD3IARF8O8ydaf80E/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzLWNtWURnEAE

Finally had the chance to go here with my fiance. We've been wanting to go here since it was on the Michelin guide list. You may last minute reservations day of, and were able to get a high top reservation for 7:30pm.  I didn't realize the high tops are around the bar, and not in their proper dining hall, but it was still a nice, still intimate, but alive from the noise of the bar. We were debating to try the shift special tasting menu, but I wasn't feeling too adventurous, we decided just to order a number of share dishes to make her own tasting menu. We also ordered a couple of cocktails. I loved the concept of each cocktail named after a bird representing some similar characteristics. So cute and unique. And wow, the drinks were amazing! It's a fairly picky with my cocktail palette, and every drink we've tried they nailed it! We ordered the hoopoe and red reindeer (something like that, both tasty and refreshing mezcal drinks). As I mentioned we ordered a ton of food! We tried their goat cheese croquettes, their sourdough bread, their duck liver pate, they're Japanese Caesar salad, carrots, heliloom chicken and steak fritters.  Probably one of the best I'd look for a patties I've ever had! I would go back just for this! The goat cheese Croquettes were pretty basic, essentially if I'd goat cheese, nothing too special. I actually liked the lightly seasoned raw carrots that accompaned it even more. We were so stuffed that we couldn't have dessert but i would have loved to try! I guess I'll just have to come back and leave room for dessert!  Our server was also very attentive to making sure we got all our food out, have drinks we needed and constant water refills. I love the location, cuz it's one of the few nice dining restaurants in Bird Rock area. Highly recommend it, perfect for dinner date or night out with the friends.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNMNTZyNDB3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJMxZpRPwD3IARF8O8ydaf80E/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNMNTZyNDB3RRAB

Hip spot in Bird Rock.  This restaurant has all of the in vogue elements of an upscale dining experience including modern aesthetics, chic furniture, sharp wallpaper design, cute bathrooms, a fun logo, and a very creative and illustrative cocktail menu. Paradisea is the Latin family name for bird of paradise and they have done an amazing job building a cohesive thematic environment around that name.

The food is light, refreshing, and simple.  The salmon in particular was fresh, well cooked, and surrounded by a green herbal sauce that was outstanding.

The price point is quite high, especially when there are some other amazing restaurants nearby.  Especially since the food is quite simple from a prep standpoint, but realistically the higher cost is likely due to the interior design and location.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYa29lQk5REAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJMxZpRPwD3IARF8O8ydaf80E/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYa29lQk5REAE

Food poisoning from the oysters. The atmosphere, service and the vibes were pretty good. However, I ordered the kebabs at happy hour, which were not brought to me. The oysters alone caused me some of the worst food poisoning I’ve ever had. Other than that, nice servers.

Michelin-Starred Dining at Paradisaea in La Jolla, CA

Opened in September 2022, Paradisaea has quickly become a notable dining destination in La Jolla, recognized for its innovative cuisine and vibrant atmosphere.

Paradisaea: A Culinary Gem in La Jolla's Vibrant Dining Scene.

Opened in September 2022, Paradisaea has swiftly emerged as a standout destination for food lovers in La Jolla, California. Nestled along the scenic La Jolla Boulevard, this restaurant combines innovative cuisine with a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of San Diego's coastal charm. From the moment it opened its doors, Paradisaea set out to redefine upscale dining with a fresh and creative approach that appeals to both locals and visitors seeking a memorable culinary experience.

Within just one year of opening, Paradisaea captured the attention of the prestigious Michelin Guide, earning a coveted spot in its 2023 California selection. This recognition reflects the restaurant's commitment to culinary excellence and its ability to impress discerning critics and diners alike. Paradisaea's dedication to crafting fresh, flavorful dishes with thoughtful presentation has made it a beacon of innovation in a competitive dining landscape.

Inspired atmosphere and thoughtful design

Paradisaea embraces its namesake—the Latin family name for the bird of paradise—through a cohesive thematic environment that blends modern aesthetics with vibrant energy. The chic interior design, complete with sharp wallpaper and stylish furniture, creates a fun yet sophisticated setting perfect for everything from intimate dinners to lively gatherings. The restaurant’s inventive cocktail menu, inspired by various bird species, adds a unique touch that complements the overall experience with creative, refreshing drinks.

A menu designed for sharing and discovery

From the creative bar burger hailed as one of the best in the area to impeccably cooked scallops and delicate ravioli, Paradisaea’s culinary offerings stand out for their freshness and balance. Diners appreciate the share-style approach, allowing guests to curate their own tasting journey with dishes like goat cheese croquettes, duck liver pâté, and a Japanese Caesar salad with vibrant twists. This approach fosters a social, experiential dining vibe that aligns perfectly with the restaurant’s lively atmosphere.

 - Paradisaea launched its doors in La Jolla, quickly making a mark with its innovative dining concept.

 - Inclusion in the Michelin Guide's California selection spotlighted Paradisaea's rising culinary prominence.

Whether you’re a local foodie, a digital nomad seeking inspiring dining spots, or a traveler drawn to vibrant culinary experiences, Paradisaea offers a blend of fresh flavors, stylish surroundings, and thoughtful hospitality that makes it a must-visit in La Jolla’s evolving restaurant scene.

A delightful escape awaits at Paradisaea, nestled along the vibrant stretch of La Jolla Boulevard in California's stunning coastal gem, La Jolla, San Diego. This restaurant offers not just a meal, but a culinary journey that captures the essence of Southern California's rich bounty, merging local flavors with a sprinkle of global influence. The atmosphere is as inviting as the tantalizing dishes, adorned with a fusion of modern décor and coastal charm—colorful accents and artful designs create an ambiance that whispers relaxation and delight. As ocean breezes waft through the open windows, guests are treated to breathtaking views of the sun setting over the Pacific, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink—a picturesque backdrop for any meal. The menu is an exquisite sampling of seasonal ingredients, featuring dishes that embrace freshness, showcasing everything from savory seafood to vibrant plant-based options, ensuring every palate finds its match. For those looking to savor the local lifestyle, Paradisaea is ideally located, making it a perfect pitstop after exploring La Jolla’s renowned attractions, such as the serene La Jolla Cove or the lush landscapes of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. It's not merely a place to dine; it's a celebration of culture and community, where every plate serves as a testament to California's culinary artistry. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely brunch under the sun or indulging in a sunset dinner, a visit to Paradisaea is destined to become an unforgettable highlight of your San Diego adventure, beckoning you to return time and again.

Paradisaea

Explore our curated selection of contemporary Californian dishes with tropical influences, featuring fresh seafood, innovative cocktails, and delectable desserts.

Pan Seared Scallops

Scallops

Hand Rolled Tagliatelle

Baked Alaska Flambé

Honey and Chamomile Crème Brûlée

Chocolate Mousse

Olive Oil Cake

Straus Milk and Honey Sundae

Affogato

Seasonal Ice Creams and Sorbets

Paradisaea Menu

Paradisaea, nestled in the heart of La Jolla, offers a captivating menu that showcases contemporary Californian cuisine with tropical influences. This vibrant dining spot invites food lovers to indulge in a carefully curated selection ranging from fresh seafood to innovative cocktails and delightful desserts.

Begin your meal with light and refreshing starters that set the tone for an exceptional dining experience.

Although Paradisaea's menu primarily shines with its mains and desserts, the appetizers such as the Japanese Caesar salad and the duck liver pâté, mentioned in guest reviews, highlight a thoughtful balance of simplicity and vibrant flavors that awaken the palate.

Dive into the heart of Californian coastal cuisine with an array of expertly crafted main courses.

Seafood lovers will delight in the Pan Seared Scallops, enriched with muscat grapes, tarragon, and cipollini onions, offering a perfect harmony of sweetness and herbaceous notes. Another scallop dish features pomme mousseline, caperberry, brown butter, and allumette, creating a buttery, delicate sensation that melts in your mouth. Pasta aficionados can savor the Hand Rolled Tagliatelle, served with brown butter, chives, and luxurious osetra caviar for an indulgent and silky experience.

Conclude your dining experience with exquisitely crafted desserts that bring a sweet finale.

The Baked Alaska Flambé is a spectacular treat featuring grand marnier, blackberry sorbet, vanilla parfait, and coca cake, offering a flamboyant and flavorful finish. For a classic twist, the Honey and Chamomile Crème Brûlée with strawberries provides delicate floral sweetness. Chocolate enthusiasts will appreciate the rich Chocolate Mousse topped with chantilly and hazelnut brittle, while the Olive Oil Cake with lemon glaze and crème fraîche balances citrus brightness with creamy texture. The Straus Milk and Honey Sundae, featuring soft serve with honey oat shortbread and avocado blossom honey, is a refreshing delight, and the Affogato beautifully combines vanilla ice cream with robust espresso. Seasonal ice creams and sorbets add a fresh, ever-changing element to satisfy every sweet tooth.

Complement your meal with Paradisaea's creative cocktails and unique specials inspired by birds and tropical themes.

Paradisaea's cocktail menu is a standout, featuring drinks named after birds that embody similar characteristics, such as the refreshing and flavorful Hoopoe and Red Reindeer mezcal cocktails. Alongside an impressive wine and beer selection, these inventive beverages add a playful and sophisticated layer to your dining experience. The restaurant also offers bar favorites including a highly praised burger known for its juiciness and perfect seasoning, making it a must-try for guests looking for a less traditional main course.

Paradisaea prides itself on fresh, light, and refreshing dishes served in a chic, modern setting, ideal for dinner dates or nights out with friends.

Located in Bird Rock, San Diego, Paradisaea combines tropical and Californian influences in both its cuisine and ambiance. From the carefully curated menu to the vibrant cocktail offerings and attentive service, this restaurant promises an engaging and memorable experience for foodies and travelers seeking contemporary flavors and stylish surroundings.

 – Fresh, innovative Californian cuisine with tropical twists.

 – Pan Seared Scallops, Hand Rolled Tagliatelle, Baked Alaska Flambé, and the signature burger from the bar.

 – Bird-inspired cocktails like the Hoopoe and Red Reindeer mezcal drinks.

 – Modern, chic design with vibrant ambiance and attentive service.

Savor gourmet dishes at Paradisaea, La Jolla's top restaurant. Experience stunning ocean views and unforgettable flavors. Book your table today!

Paradisaea: Gourmet Dining in La Jolla, CA

San Diego County

A curated dining experience led by Chef Jeff Armstrong, showcasing a selection of the restaurant's finest dishes.

Chef's Menu

A selection of desserts and after-dinner drinks to complement your meal.

After Dinner Bar Menu

Situated at 5680 La Jolla Boulevard in the picturesque Bird Rock neighborhood of San Diego, Paradisaea offers a truly exceptional dining experience that blends world-class cuisine with a chic, modern atmosphere. This Michelin-starred restaurant has become a standout destination for food lovers and trend-conscious travelers seeking innovative flavors and a lively yet intimate setting.

Exceptional Cuisine Crafted by Chef Jeff Armstrong

Chef's Menu is a curated dining experience priced at $125, showcasing the restaurant's finest dishes with thoughtful, innovative preparations. Diners rave about the perfectly roasted cauliflower with its surprising depth and unique kick, the fresh pasta ravioli that melts in your mouth, and flawlessly cooked buttery scallops. The bar's burger is hailed as one of the best around — juicy and impeccably seasoned. Each plate is crafted with attention to harmony and bold flavors that excite the palate.

Dessert lovers will delight in the Tarte Tatin, a caramelized apple tart with a flaky crust and just the right sweetness to end your meal on a lingering note. The After Dinner Bar Menu offers a refined selection of desserts and drinks, perfectly complementing the culinary journey.

Paradisaea's stylish interior combines modern aesthetics with chic furniture and creative design elements inspired by the bird of paradise theme. The lively bar area features unique cocktails named after birds, delivering refreshing mezcal and other craft options that impress even the most discerning palates. Whether you reserve a high-top table near the bar or dine indoors, the atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between intimate and vibrant.

 enhances the dining vibe with energetic performances.

 available for enjoying San Diego's beautiful weather.

Paradisaea is perfect for a romantic dinner date, a fun night out with friends, or a special celebration with family. Reservations are recommended, especially for the coveted Chef's Menu tasting experience. The attentive service ensures your culinary adventure flows smoothly, with staff ready to recommend drinks and dishes tailored to your tastes. You can also enjoy takeout options if you prefer dining at home.

Whether you come for the inventive cuisine, the creative cocktails, or the lively ambiance, Paradisaea delivers a memorable San Diego dining experience that delights all the senses.

Family-friendly with accessible amenities.

California

Experience the vibrant ambiance and innovative Californian cuisine at Paradisaea in La Jolla, CA. Perfect for your next upscale dining outing.

Paradisaea in La Jolla, CA - Luxury Oceanfront Dining Experience

Discover the stylish and contemporary Paradisaea in La Jolla, CA. Enjoy fresh seafood, creative cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere in Bird Rock.

Explore La Jolla's Paradisaea - Top Neighborhood Dining Spot

Savor innovative dishes and tropical-inspired ambiance at Paradisaea in La Jolla, CA. A Michelin Guide-recognized restaurant with outdoor seating and full bar.

Paradisaea menu overview

starters

mains

desserts

drinks and specials

freshness and atmosphere