No matter how old you’re turning, birthdays always call for a celebration and really good food. Whether that means blowing out candles on a piece of tiramisu, sharing a freshly made sushi roll, or toasting with a strong cocktail, Del Mar Plaza has several restaurants that were made for celebrating birthdays.
Since it’s your day, indulge in the food that you love and treat yourself to something special. Get your friends and loved ones together to share a meal and make your next birthday a truly special occasion by dining out at one of these six restaurants.
Del Mar Rendezvous
If You Like: Chinese food but want something more birthday-appropriate than take-out
Del Mar Rendezvous was named one of the 50 best Chinese restaurants in the United States by CNN Travel—and for good reason. The restaurant serves a wide variety of innovative and authentic dishes (like Duck Breast Shangri-la and Buddha’s Treasure) made with fresh ingredients. During “Happy Buddha Hour,” (weekdays from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.) all dim sum is half off (with the purchase of two dinner entrees) and your second glass of wine or draft beer is just $.88—all the more reason to celebrate!
Treat Yourself: You’ll have peace of mind knowing the menu is suitable for all your vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free friends—so reward yourself for being a thoughtful friend and order the Xiangjiao for dessert; it’s a Rendezvous specialty.
Il Fornaio Del Mar and Enoteca del Fornaio
If You Like: Italian cuisine and fine wine
At Il Fornaio Del Mar and Enoteca del Fornaio, you can order your favorite Italian dishes like Bruschetta Calda, Pennoni alla Vodka, and of course, a variety of pizza. The restaurants use the freshest ingredients and traditional cooking techniques to create their authentic cuisine. The food and wine is so amazing you’ll feel like you hopped on a flight to Italy, but once you make your way to the outdoor fireplace (for an aperitivo or two), you’ll remember you’re in beautiful Del Mar.
Treat Yourself: Carbs don’t count on your birthday, so order all your favorite pasta and finish off your meal with a sweet slice of tiramisu.
Pacifica Del Mar
If You Like: surf more than turf and commemorating special occasions with a toast
Pacifica Del Mar is known for having some of the best seafood in the country. Start your birthday dinner with a round of oysters, then order a Pacifica classic, like the Mustard Catfish or Sugar-Spiced Salmon, for your main entrée. And because it’s your day, go ahead and add a lobster tail to your meal—and don’t pass on dessert.
Treat Yourself: Let the bartender know it’s your birthday and ask them to whip you up something special using one of the Ocean Bar’s 100+ vodkas.
Pacifica Breeze Café
If You Like: mimosas, Bloody Marys, and everything else about brunch
Pacifica Breeze Café serves breakfast and lunch out on their sun-filled patio. It’s the perfect place to indulge your favorite breakfast items—like eggs benedict, shrimp and grits, cinnamon brioche French toast, and avocado toast—while taking advantage of their craft beer, wine, and morning cocktails.
Treat Yourself: Designate a driver, sip your bubbly, and order a decadent breakfast dish that could easily double as dessert.
Shimbashi Izakaya
If You Like: sushi or exploring new dishes
The seasonal menu at Shimbashi Izakaya will delight even the biggest sushi lover. Find your favorite roll or try something completely new—the staff can offer recommendations if you’re stuck on what to order. Or, because it’s your birthday, ask for the Omakase Course and let the chef choose your dishes for you.
Treat Yourself: Shimbashi has dozens of sake for you to try; sip one through dinner or get the party started with a sake bomb.
Need a gift for the birthday boy or girl? Check out our unique shops and boutiques; many of them have one-of-a-kind items you can only find in Del Mar. And don’t forget to visit us online for a full directory of restaurants and to make a reservation.