10 Reasons to Experience CUSP Restaurant in La Jolla

CUSP Dining and Drinks on the 11th floor (top-level) of Hotel La Jolla offers more than just a nice meal in a La Jolla restaurant.

As a fan of lists, I decided to compartmentalize why we like it into ten highlights because I’m sure several, if not all, will resonate with you.

1. The View Is Absolutely Spectacular

Perched at the bottom of Torrey Pines Road overlooking La Jolla Shores Beach, CUSP’s floor-to-ceiling windows provide one of the best views of San Diego.

Peer over La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club, pristine residential areas and off to the ocean. We dare you not to photograph it.

The spectacular sunset view is one reason we like to come during happy hour.

2. You Can Walk Over from La Jolla Shores

From the La Jolla Shores beach hotels, it takes about 10 minutes to walk to Hotel La Jolla. These lucky hotel guests need not get into their cars.

If you’re not staying in the area, think about following a meal here with a nice beach walk.

3. Relaxed, Sophisticated Vibe

Though it’s perfectly acceptable to arrive dressed to the nines, it’s totally not necessary. Smart casual will do. Nice jeans and a shirt will, too.

CUSP doesn’t exude a hurried vibe. In our experience, the staff has always been warm and welcoming and it’s a comfortable spot to spend a long evening with friends, coworkers, or family.

4. Cool Seating Options

If you’re bringing a date, ask to reserve the tables for two near the window that allows guests to sit nearly side-by-side for both intimate conversations and spectacular views.

On the other side of the restaurant, booths with views provide perfect seating for families.

5. Original Craft Cocktails

As impressive as that custom-shaped ice cube is, the drink is pretty spectacular. I don’t—or thought I didn’t—typically like bourbon but my husband described his preferences to the mixologist and this is what arrived at our table during a recent meal.

I could have tossed back a few of these but stuck with wine to be sure I had the wherewithal to focus on our multi-course meal. Craft cocktails are mixed with fresh juices and spirits infused in-house to create perfectly balanced, tasty libations.

6. Fresh Coastal Cuisine

Executive Chef Ingrid Funes highlights fresh seasonal ingredients in her menus using lots of color and inspiration from family recipes.

Popular recent menu items include Scottish Salmon with parmesan foam, and the Duck which uses fresh cherries. We usually order the daily ceviche, too.

The menu is seasonal and subject to change so what we’ve enjoyed might not be on the menu during your visit.

7. It’s Open for Breakfast and Weekend Brunch

Start your morning off with a view and a healthy (or not) breakfast from 7–11 a.m. complete with fresh juices and traditional favorites like chilaquiles, steak and eggs, housemade pancakes, and more.

Weekend brunch happens from 7 a.m.–2 p.m. and incorporates salads, and sandwiches in addition to decadent morning fare like a range of gourmet Benedicts. Oh, and there’s also a Bloody Mary bar!

8. Daily Happy Hour

Specials on drinks and bites happen daily at the bar between 4–7 p.m.

Wednesday is the day for champagne lovers. Heavily discounted premium bubbly (Veuve Clicquot) can be enjoyed for a price corresponding to the time. Starting at 4 p.m., glasses of bubbly are $4.00 and the prices rise by $1 every hour until 7 p.m.

You can also go for Monday Martini Night, Tuesday Oyster Night where bivalves are $2 a shuck from 4–7 p.m.

Tip: Get to the bar early to grab a seat as it can get busy.

9. Kids Like It

Is always game to eat at CUSP. Booths help keep her from squirming around in a chair and even she takes photos of the view. Kids tend to like the Margherita flatbread.

10. Room for Private Parties

Need to throw a small luncheon or a private party for 80? CUSP Dining and Drinks can handle it and customize a menu your guests will love.

Their open-air, contemporary space works for everything from business lunches to baby showers to wedding receptions. Natural light floods the rooms during the day, creating a festive ambiance.

Bottom Line

If you, want to impress guests with a spectacular La Jolla view in a casual, festive environment with good food, CUSP Dining and Drinks is a great option.

It’s also a great choice for guests staying in nearby La Jolla hotels.

What do you order at CUSP Restaurant?

CUSP Dining and Drinks
7955 La Jolla Shores Drive
La Jolla, CA 92037

(858) 551-3620

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